Lakes have long been places where human beings gathered to set up their homes and villages. The presence of water and the food supply within makes it easy for people to live, at least on a smaller scale of population. Times have changed over the centuries, however, and today lakes are often seen as places of recreation more than places of prime habitation. Thus, the most beautiful lakes all seem to end up as tourist attractions, filled with luxury hotels and people from all over the world. Today I present a list of seven lakes, some of them the popular tourist attractions that one might expect, but others remote and protected due to the place they occupy within national parks. Whether you’re looking for a spot to get away from it all or a place to enjoy a watery vacation that doesn’t involve a crowded beach, there are lakes across the world for all tastes.
Crater Lake - Oregon, US
Crater Lake in Oregon is such a magnificent lake that it even has an entire national park named after it. It lies within the remains of a volcano, a large island breaking up the smoothness of the water. This deep lake is surrounded by towering cliffs and mountains and is renowned for its intense shade of blue. Visitors can take a ferry to visit one of the islands or just enjoy a cruise around the lake and take in the sights. Tours of the park are available for a more thorough look at the region and, for those inclined to challenging hikes, Crater Lake is said to be one of the best.
Plitvice Lakes - Croatia
The PlitviceLakes are located in yet another national park named because of its famous lakes. This is not just one lake, but a beautiful collection of sixteen separate tiered lakes, each one at a different level and connected to each other via a system of waterfalls. The total collection of lakes is spread across an area of approximately five miles, amidst a landscape of forests, rich with wildlife. This is a tourist friendly park, complete with walkways and trails and you can grab up a map so you don’t get lost. For those less inclined to walk such a distance, a shuttle bus tour is also available.
Blue Lake - Mount Gambier, South Australia
Nestled within a volcanic crater, MountGambier’s BlueLake is so named because of, you guessed it, its bright blue color. The color of the lake actually shifts from winter to summer seasons. In November, the waters begin their change to a bright turquoise, while in March, they become more muted. This color change is one of the things that makes BlueLake so popular. Mt.Gambier is also known for its large and varied collection of lakes, caves and other natural wonders, so it makes a perfect vacation spot for those with plenty of time to spend away from civilization.
Moraine Lake - Alberta, Canada
MoraineLake is located within BanffNational Park in the Valley of the Ten Peaks and, together with its surroundings, is one of the most beautiful landscapes you will ever see. The snow-capped mountains and forests highlight the blue-green lake and present some epic-looking scenery. Tourism is a big thing for MoraineLake, so while there you can enjoy everything from hiking to floating across the lake or just sit and enjoy the peace and quiet in one of the lodges. Check out the BanffNational Park website for more on what to expect.
Five-Flower Lake - Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve, China
Within the Jiuzhaigou Nature Reserve is a collection of more than 100 multi-colored lakes, the “jewel” of this collection being Five-FlowerLake. Though it is relatively small, the waters are crystal clear and one can see to the bottom of the lake where centuries-old trees have accumulated. But the highlight of the lake, and the reason it acquired the name it has, is that the reflection of sunlight often creates a five-hued rainbow, from dark green to yellow, that many compare to a flower garden. In addition to the lake, the reserve is filled with other natural wonders such as waterfalls and wildlife. It is, however, a biosphere reserve, so tourists are expected to stick to trails and not touch for the most part so that everything will remain in pristine condition.
Lake Garda - Northern Italy
The largest lake in all of Italy, Lake Garda is a haven for those that desire both beauty and plenty of attractions within a reasonable distance. The lake is a marvel and there is plenty to do out on its waters, but the region is perhaps better known for the many villages that dot its shores. Many of them have long histories and ruins within them. They also have plenty in the way of modern conveniences, such as waterfront cafes, gardens, spas, resorts and even an amusement park. Hotels can be found from the small and quaint to grand and luxurious. Lake Garda is a perfect place for a long-term lakeside vacation.
Taal Lake - Philippines
Located on the island of Luzon, about an hour south of the country’s capital of Manila, TaalLake is a massive body of water within an old volcanic crater. Within this lake lays an island, on which lies yet another lake, this one a sulfur lake. All this sits within a landscape of jungles and ridges, creating a beautiful and serene getaway. It is an active volcano and is, in fact, considered to be one of the world’s most active, so best to check up on how it’s doing before taking a visit. The one town that hasn’t fallen prey to previous eruptions is Taal, where visitors can find food, lodging and many historic buildings. For a great set of photos of the lake, the village and the surrounding area, check this site out.
ReedFluteCaveLake courtesy of Dennis Jarvis via Wikicommons
Crater Lake courtesy of Kerstin Stolzenhain via Wikicommons
Plitvice lower lakes courtesy of Raffaello via Wikicommons
BlueLake courtesy of Chuq via Wikicommons
MoraineLake courtesy of Tobi 87 via Wikicommons
Five-flowerLake courtesy of chensiyuan via Wikicommons
Lake Garda courtesy of Danny S via Wikicommons
TaalLake courtesy of Kenny Louie via Wikicommons
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