The Most Beautiful Lakes in the World You Can Visit With Culture Trip

The largest body of water in Taiwan is as ethereal as the name suggests. The area is designated as one of the country’s National Scenic Areas and, while the lake’s majestic alpine vistas are to be treasured, it’s also what surrounds that makes this place so special. It’s an area rich in indigenous culture and local agriculture, as well as verdant hiking and cycling trails. Day three of our Taste of Taiwan trip is dedicated entirely to Sun Moon Lake. We’ll start with a refreshing two-hour cycle around the lake’s turquoise waters, followed by a visit to Xiangshan Visitor Centre and lunch at a local restaurant. After lunch we’ll embark on a gentle hourlong boat cruise, before visiting the hilltop temple of Wenwu, which boasts stunning views of the lake. Finally, this region is also famous for producing black tea, so it would be rude not to make a late afternoon visit to Ho Ho Cha Tea Factory for a hand-rolling and tasting session.

It’s no surprise that this famous Lombardy lake is a favourite holiday resort among the mega-rich. The region itself has a luxurious sophistication that pre-dates the grand villas built around it, or the fancy yachts cruising along it. It’s hard to find something to look at here that isn’t extremely picturesque, from quaint, colourful little Italian towns to spectacular hotels, towering limestone mountains and shimmering, crystal clear waters lapping up against luscious forest boundaries. Our Classic Northern Italy Rail Trip includes a day trip to Lake Como, as we take a scenic regional train from Milan to Como. You’ll get to explore the town with a Local Insider before taking the ferry to Bellagio, where indulgent gelaterias and tasty lunch spots await.

This is another volcanic crater lake, formed by an eruption on Mount Hakone 3,000 years ago. Today it’s one of the main attractions in the Hakone region, which is full of traditional accommodations, historic sights and muscle-soothing hot springs. It’s popularity is mostly derived from the views of Mount Fuji that can be enjoyed both on and around the lake. The ultimate photo frame shot includes Mount Fuji in the background and the Hakone Shrine torii gate in the foreground, separated by dense forestry and a few thousand feet. Having already spent the night soaking in hot springs at our traditional ryokan inn in Hakone, the ninth day of our Japan by Train: The Grand Tour trip will start with a serene boat cruise across Lake Ashi, so you can start your day with spectacular views of Japan’s tallest peak.