Did you know that there are more than 117 million lakes on Earth? A mind-blowing number indeed! With that many lakes, we still cannot have enough. Lakes are simply stunning wonders of nature, with their shimmering waters and riveting reflections. Whether they are bordered by towering mountain ranges or overgrown forests, there is always something magical about seeing a lake’s surroundings mirrored in its azure waters.
From salt lakes in Bolivia to frozen beauties in Russia, here are the 7 most beautiful lakes in the world that you got to visit one day.
Lake Como, Italy
We cannot start talking about lakes without putting Lake Como at the top of the list. Italy has beautiful lakes every nook and cranny that will make you fall in love with the country, besides the food, of course, but Lake Como is simply the most popular and beautiful lakes in Italy.
Located in the Lombardy region of northern Italy, it is the third largest lake in Italy with a surface area of 146 square kilometers; the lake itself is nestled against the iconic foothills of the Alps, making for a very scenic view. This jewel of a lake has been attracting summer vacationers since ancient Roman times as its gorgeous setting and sun-kissed shores make it perfect for rest and relaxation.
Laguna Colorada, Bolivia
Also known as the Red Lagoon, Laguna Colorada is a salt lake in Bolivia; it is part of the Eduardo Avaroa Andean Fauna National Reserve. Although it only measures about a meter deep and it has an area of about 60 square kilometers, this lake is remarkable for its color, not its size nor depth.
The lake has a remarkable red-rust color. It's said that the reddish color of the lake is due to minerals and algae in the lake, which provided this amazingly beautiful natural phenomenon. Dotting on its pretty reddish surface, visitors can see gleaming white borax islands and pink flamingos.
Lake Tahoe, California, United States
Lake Tahoe is a large freshwater lake located in the Sierra Nevada Valley, bordering both Nevada and California. Lake Tahoe was formed over two million years ago during the Ice Age. It receives worldwide acclaim for its scenic mountain views and its clear water, it's so clear you can see to the bottom.
With skiing and snowboarding to be enjoyed in the winter and hiking and water sports in the summer, it’s no surprise that Lake Tahoe is such a major tourist destination. It features both beautiful beaches and ski chalets. The lake is surrounded by rocky terrain and tall forest trees for a picturesque view that will make any nature enthusiast fall in love once they are at the lake.
Lake Hillier, Australia
Australia is known for its pink lakes (in case you didn't know, Australia has many pink lakes), but Lake Hillier is the most famous of Australia's pink lakes. This beautiful pinky lake is located in the Goldfields-Esperance region, off the coast of Western Australia.
This stunning lake gets its hue from pigmented micro algae that live in its salt-saturated waters. This highly salty body of water can transition color from pink to purple or red, according to the season and time of day. If you drive along the lake shores just before sunset, you might get to see the water change color right before your eyes.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
There is a reason why Lake Bled is so popular. It simple looks like it came out of dream. With its emerald waters, backed with the surrounding Julien Alps, and Disney-like castle high on a hill, you won't be short of picture-perfect views if you are dreaming of one.
Located in Slovenia, the deep blue lake sits below the Julian Alps and is surrounded by lush vegetation. The lake is also the home of the only natural island in Slovenia, residing on it a 17th century gothic church of the Assumption of Mary.
Moraine Lake, Canada
Banff National Park has some of the most stunning landscapes in Canada, and Moraine Lake, which is located within the park, is no exception. Similar to the surrounding lakes, Moraine is a glacial lake; it has a crystalline turquoise waters. The color is remarkable, and stands out bright against the rugged landscape. The lake itself resides within the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
The sublime mountains and the pine and coniferous forests that surround the lake edges make for the picture-perfect lake image, a sight that you can never get enough of.
Lake Baikal, Russia
Last on our list is Lake Baikal. And saved for last for a reason. Located in southern Siberia, in Russia, Lake Baikal is the deepest and oldest lake in the world. Stunned yet? The lake actually reaches a depth of one mile in some spots and contains 20% of the world’s fresh water.
Come winter, the lake transforms into a true wonderland, with jagged ice caves forming and bubbles becoming frozen in time under the water's surface. Nicknamed the ‘Pearl of Siberia,’ Lake Baikal is every nature lover's dream come true.
