5 World Landmarks You Might Have Never Heard Of
Date Posted: 03/03/2020
We’ve all heard of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Great Wall of China, and the Moscow Kremlin… but there’s a whole world out there filled with a multitude of awe-inspiring landmarks we know nothing about – or very little!
There’s so much more to explore that perhaps you don’t even know exists. That’s why we’re going to share with you FIVE breathtaking sites across the world that will instantly shoot to the top of your travel bucket list.
Here goes…
Lord Howe Island, Australia
Characterised by its mesmerising sandy beaches, subtropical forests, and clear waters… we bet you've never heard of Lord Howe Island! Nestled only two hours off the coast of Sydney in Australia, it’s probably fair to say that the island is one of nature’s most spectacular creations.
With only 400 visitors allowed on the island at one time, it’s geographically quite remote. An ideal base for day hikes, snorkelling, and hand-feeding fish, it’s clear to see why Lord Howe Island is a Heritage-listed haven. It really is the perfect paradise of flawless golden shores, coral reefs, and a lagoon so eye-catchingly blue you won’t believe it.
Visitors previous recommend four days to explore the wonders of this island; the perfect short break for all!
Gullfoss, Iceland
Located in Iceland, a country world-famous for its waterfalls, Gullfoss in the Hvita river canyon, stands out for obvious reasons. Being the most beautiful and magnificent of them all, its translated name ‘Golden Falls’ undoubtedly describes its greatness.
You’ll discover that the way the water traverses over three giant steps and then plunges itself onwards through two further stages before cascading 105 feet is what makes it so visually stunning to any on-looker. The illusion is that falls are floating by themselves above an abyss; something so spectacular that can only be appreciated by the naked eye.
If you’re staying in the capital of Reykjavik you can reach the falls within two hours by car and visitors can also enjoy the unforgettable views from Gullfoss Café; a local delicatessen serving meals and drinks.
Antelope Canyon, Arizona
Of course, Arizona is infamous for the Grand Canyon… but have you ever heard of Antelope Canyon? Not as likely! To the locals, tales of the wonders contained within Antelope Canyon are a hot topic. This scenic masterpiece has been formed over millions of years while rivers and streams slowly eroded away the sandstone to form the awe-inspiring visual it is today.
It comprises two separate slot canyon sections, known as the Upper Antelope Canyon and the Lower Antelope Canyon, and is a mile-upon-mile dream to walk through. At one point it was home to herds of pronghorn antelope but now the canyon nestles within the LeeChee Chapter of the Navajo Nation.
A guided tour to explore this canyon is required; tours will bring you directly to the canyon and provide you with a wealth of knowledge about the fascinating history, geology, and culture of the area.
The Gates of Hell, Derweze, Turkmenistan
Hidden deep in the unknowns of Turkmenistan, discover The Gates of Hell in the Karakum desert that has no horizon. Back in 1971, this natural gas field collapsed in on itself and in the hope of burning out the gas quickly geologists set it on fire... but it’s still burning to this day!
Still on fire over 40 years later, its fiery glow contrasts the night sky and can be seen for miles around. Despite its haunting name and ferocious flames, many people still trek into the desert to see the site in all its glory. The nearby desert is already a very popular place to wild camp but the government are hopeful The Gates of Hell will become a renowned tourist site.
Lake Natron, Tanzania
A mineral-rich soda lake in Tanzania, Lake Natron sits at the border with Kenya in Africa. To the eye it appears rough around the edges, however its high alkaline rate and fast evaporation forms a crusty top layer that stretches all across the lake. The noticeable deep shades of red and pink are a result of the organisms there that feed on all of the salt.
For most animals, Lake Natron can be no natural habitat. This is because the pH and temperature levels are so high that they can burn the skin and eyes of those who can’t adapt properly. However, it’s a breeding ground for lesser flamingos. Over 1.5 million flock here to breed each year and its number makes up over half of the world’s lesser flamingo count.
Have you visited any of these spectacular landmarks? Share your photos with us!
