There is something about lakes that many people find beautiful.
It is possibly the fact that most lakes are surrounded by mountains and just being there and taking in that view is soul-healing.
Well, I am proud to say that I have visited over 30 lakes around the world, but these 10 I found to be the most beautiful lakes in the world.
1. Lake Como, Italy
Lake Como, Italy, is a stunningly beautiful destination that offers something for everyone.
The alpine lake is surrounded by majestic mountains and lush green hillsides, making it an ideal spot for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
It’s also known as one of the most romantic locations in Europe.
Whether you’re looking to relax with a glass of Italian wine or explore all the area has to offer, Lake Como will not disappoint.
The lake itself covers over 57 square miles and is bordered by three picturesque towns – Menaggio, Bellagio, and Varenna – each offering its own unique charm.
From swimming in crystal-clear waters to enjoying a leisurely boat ride, there are plenty of activities to keep visitors busy.
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Of course, my favorite pastime here is simply relaxing and taking in all the beautiful scenery.
Away from the lake, you’ll find an array of delightful places to visit from churches and palaces to villas and gardens.
Or take a cable car up to Brunate for breathtaking views of Lake Como and beyond.
As far as accommodations, we found that Domus Bellagio is truly a gem.
2. Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand
Lake Wakatipu is a large, glacial lake on the South Island of New Zealand.
It is set amongst stunning mountain peaks and breathtaking alpine scenery, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Zealand.
The lake is home to various types of wildlife such as wading birds, trout, and rare native fish species.
In addition to its natural beauty, Lake Wakatipu has numerous activities for visitors to enjoy.
Hiking and biking trails can be found around the lake’s shores, offering spectacular views of snow-capped mountains and lush green countryside.
Visitors can also take boat trips across the lake to explore other parts of the region or simply relax on the shoreline with a picnic or fishing rod.
There are also several adventure activities available in the area such as:
- Bungee jumping
- Paragliding
- Canyon swinging
Millbrook Resort is an excellent nearby place to rest after a long day at the lake.
3. Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled, Slovenia is one of the most beautiful places in Europe.
Located in the Julian Alps, it offers stunning views of the lake and its surrounding mountains.
The lake itself is surrounded by a picturesque island that holds a historic church and castle.
Visitors to Lake Bled can take boat trips around the lake, visit the nearby Vintgar Gorge or explore the old town center of Bled with its charming cobbled streets and Baroque architecture.
In addition, there are plenty of outdoor activities available such as:
- Swimming
- Biking
- Hiking
I went on lunch at Starkl restaurant and their beef was amazing. Plus, the view of lake Bled while drinking a cup of coffee is something else.
You will find Hotel Lovec as one of the best properties near Lake Bled.
4. Lake Baikal, Russia
Lake Baikal in Russia is the world’s deepest lake, measuring an incredible 5,387 feet (1,642 meters) deep.
It is also the largest freshwater lake in the world by volume, containing roughly 20 percent of all unfrozen freshwater on Earth.
The lake is home to a wide variety of plants and animals that are not found anywhere else on the planet and it has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its natural beauty and biodiversity.
Baikal has long been considered sacred by local indigenous people including Buryats, Evenks, and Tofs who live around Lake Baikal and have relied on it for their sustenance for centuries.
Local legends tell of how god created the lake when searching for a place to hide from the devil.
The lake has an amazing range of activities and attractions such as:
- Hiking
- Skiing
- Kayaking
- Sailing
- Visiting ancient monasteries
- Learning about the cultural history at local museums
There are also plenty of hot springs and resorts where visitors can relax in therapeutic thermal baths.
5. Lake Tahoe, California/Nevada
Lake Tahoe, USA is one of the most beautiful and popular vacation spots in the United States.
Located on the border of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe has known for its crystal clear waters, stunning mountain views, and wide variety of activities available to visitors.
From skiing and snowboarding in the wintertime to hiking and boating in the summertime, there’s something for everyone at Lake Tahoe.
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The lake itself is a natural wonder – it’s surrounded by 72 miles of shoreline edged by majestic mountains that provide a breathtaking backdrop.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure vacation, Lake Tahoe has it all.
Plus, with plenty of lodging options from camping to luxury resorts, you’re sure to find the perfect accommodation for your next trip.
We really liked staying at Northstar Lodge by Vacation Club Rentals and we highly recommend it.
6. Moraine Lake, Alberta, Canada
Moraine Lake is a beautiful turquoise glacial lake tucked away in the Valley of the Ten Peaks in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.
This stunning mountain lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush evergreen forests is one of the most iconic Canadian landscapes and has been featured on postcards and travel brochures for decades.
It’s no wonder why it’s become such an iconic image – its beauty is breathtaking!
Moraine Lake has a rich blue color and comes from its glacial origins – when glaciers melt they create sediment which reflects light differently, giving the water an otherworldly blueness.
The area around Moraine Lake is filled with excellent hiking trails and plenty of opportunities to explore nature and take in incredible views.
One of the most popular viewpoints of Moraine Lake is from the top of the nearby Rockpile Trail, where visitors can get an amazing view without having to hike too far.
Staying at a Lodge on Moraine Lake will make your vacation unforgettable.
7. Lake Hillier, Australia
Lake Hillier is a pink-colored lake located on Middle Island, off the south coast of Western Australia.
It is one of several pink lakes around the world, but it is notable for its vivid hue and its stability over time—the color has remained consistent for at least several hundred years.
Though it appears to be related to the presence of certain algae and bacteria in the water, the reason behind Lake Hillier’s unusual color remains unknown.
The salinity level of the lake is also quite high, which helps prevent mixing with other bodies of water nearby.
Lake Hillier’s surrounding shores are made up mainly of sand dunes, with some patches of eucalyptus woodland in between.
The nearby Recherche Archipelago also contains several other pink lakes.
Visitors to the lake are able to view it from a variety of angles, though swimming in or touching the water is strictly prohibited due to its sensitivity.
8. Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
Laguna Colorada is a majestic salt lake in the south of Bolivia that features a captivating red hue.
Having mineral-rich water creates a unique pigment and gives Laguna Colorada its distinct color.
This incredible body of water spans 60 square kilometers (23 square miles) and has been designated as a Ramsar wetland site.
It is home to several species of rare wildlife including Andean flamingos, which are often seen feeding on the algae in the shallow waters.
Laguna Colorada’s otherworldly landscape consists of tall volcanoes, rolling hills, and hot springs.
The area is also known for its extreme temperature swings between day and night, making it an ideal spot to witness stunning sunsets or starry nights.
Having such a distinguish character, the lake and its surrounding areas are also popular destinations for photographers, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.
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9. Crater Lake, Oregon
Crater Lake, Oregon is a stunningly beautiful body of water situated in the Crater Lake National Park.
With its deep blue waters, it is one of the deepest lakes in the United States and among the cleanest bodies of water known to man.
Crater lake was formed over 7,700 years ago when a violent volcanic eruption led to the collapse of Mount Mazama, leaving behind an awe-inspiring caldera filled with pristine water.
The lake’s azure color was derived from minerals leached from nearby rivers and streams as well as runoff from snowmelt in the surrounding mountainsides.
Its clarity has been measured at a remarkable 140 feet, making it one of the clearest lakes in the world.
However, the lake’s environment remains relatively untouched, with no fish or other aquatic species present.
Our stay at Crater Lake Resort made our trip so much more fun.
10. Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
Plitvice Lakes is a stunning national park in Croatia and an absolute must-see for any visitor.
This breathtaking area of cascading waterfalls, terraced lakes, and lush greenery is one of the most beautiful sights in Europe.
With 16 interconnected lakes, numerous species of animals, dramatic waterfalls, and hundreds of walking trails, Plitvice Lakes provides visitors with a unique experience that they could never forget.
The crystal-clear waters are perfect for swimming or paddling while spectacular views over the surrounding countryside make it a great spot for photography or simply taking in nature at its finest.
If you are planning on visiting Plitvice Lakes, make sure to check out the Lakeside Hotel.
Final Words
Our world is filled with beautiful bodies of water that offer breathtaking views and plenty of opportunities for exploration.
From the crystal-clear turquoise waters of Lake Tahoe to the beautiful lake Plitvice, this list has the ten most beautiful lakes in the world.
