The best of Earth's natural beauty

For many of us, Earth’s awe-inspiring natural beauty is what makes us want to escape and travel far to catch a glimpse of Mother Nature’s wonders. From colossal glaciers meandering down mountainsides to caves sculpted by lava – here are five places to see nature’s most captivating sights, plus convenient, sustainability-minded places to stay.

The legend goes that Northern Ireland was once home to a giant named Finn McCool. Across the Irish Sea in Scotland lived another giant named Benandonner, who threatened Finn and Northern Ireland. So Finn tore up chunks of the Antrim coastline and hurled them into the sea, creating the path known as the Giant’s Causeway.

While the folklore is interesting, the science behind the Causeway’s creation is even more so; formed 60 million years ago during a period of high volcanic activity, these 40,000 interlocking basalt columns are the result of lava cooling into near-perfect hexagons. It is a lasting reminder of Earth’s unadulterated power. To complement your folklore-rich trip, stay at Dromore House Historic Country House – a storied Georgian family home situated just a 20-minute drive from the Giant’s Causeway.

Located on the volcanic island of Jeju in South Korea, the Manjanggul Lava Tube is a seven-kilometre-long tunnel carved out by lava flow over a hundred thousand years ago. It’s home to the largest-known lava column in the world, and visitors can explore one kilometre of the tunnel thanks to natural pathways. The tube is illuminated by multi-coloured spotlights whose kaleidoscopic hues stream down stalactites and stalagmites, lending this UNESCO world heritage site an otherworldly feel.

Jeju Island is famous for being picture-perfect, with blooming meadows, mossy forests and crystalline water lapping the coastline. Its volcanic nature makes Jeju feel akin to the tropical islands of Hawaii – except with fewer mountains, and more lush open plains. There are also daily flights into Jeju from the mainland. After a day of exploring, rest up with a relaxing stay at Aewol Stay in Jeju Hotel&Resort. The rooms here are spacious and there are plenty of transportation options nearby.

Iceland has no shortage of natural beauty. Everywhere you turn, you’ll be awestruck by a waterfall, volcano, glacier, mountain, lava field, or coastline. Millions flock to Iceland to experience its many sublime wonders, but there's one place that tends to make everyone’s list: Kirkjufell. Located on the western Snæfellsnes peninsula, Kirkjufell – which means ‘church mountain’ – is a 463-metre-high mountain that’s said to be the most photographed in the country. Game of Thrones fans may also recognise the mountain as the ‘Arrow Head Mountain’ from the popular TV series.

During the last Ice Age, Kirkjufell rose from underneath the surrounding glaciers, looming high above the ebb and flow of nature – as it will continue to do for millennia to come. Hiking is popular in the area, and visitors can follow trails leading to the eponymous waterfall, Kirkjufellsfoss. Trekking up the mountain alone is forbidden due to its steepness, but you can book a guide in advance if ascending Kirkjufell is on your itinerary. Spend the night at Stöð Guesthouse and apartments, a seaside stay that boasts impressive views of the mountain.

Wadi Rum is a dramatic, Mars-like valley that stretches across Jordan’s ochre desert. Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum cuts into the sandstone and granite, creating alien-like rock formations seen almost nowhere else on Earth. This area has been inhabited since prehistoric times – and today, visitors can still see ancient petroglyphs, inscriptions and archaeological remains scattered around the desert. Many tour companies run daily excursions exploring Wadi Rum.

Nighttime in Wadi Rum is an unrivalled experience. Far away from cities and nestled into the stillness of the night, the valley is perfect for stargazing. The arms of the Milky Way seemingly reach into the valley and towards you, and the twinkling of stars is only interrupted by the odd shooting one. Sleep under the night sky in a typical Bedouin tent – the best way to experience the desert. Beyond Wadi Rum Camp is located in the heart of the protected area and nature reserve, and has lavish private tents equipped with comfortable beds.

Zanzibar is home to pristine palm-fringed beaches, spectacular sunsets, crystal clear water and some great snorkelling. Located about 25 kilometres off the coast of mainland Tanzania, this island paradise teeming with natural beauty is regarded by many as paradise on Earth. While the island has become increasingly popular over the years, there’s still a lot of glorious nature waiting to be explored and relished.

Beyond the twisting mangroves and towering coconut forests, shallow tidal lagoons give way to a whole new world. Relax in coastal pools to soak up the sun, or explore even further with your snorkel. Coral reefs unfold beneath the waves and are home to all manner of marine life, including dolphins. Spot them from a safe and friendly distance, as these cetaceans value their privacy. After a day in the water, unwind at the chic SeVi Boutique Hotel, a stunning stay where private bungalows have verandas, plunge pools and beachfront views.