Some places feel almost otherworldly; landscapes shaped by time, nature, and stories that defy direction. From white limestone terraces and floating monasteries to rugged coastlines and mysterious sculptures in the Danish countryside: these Geotreasures reveal the earth at its most surprising, spectacular, and profoundly beautiful.
Ring full of diamonds
Pristine white beaches framed by jagged cliffs and topped with a patchwork of green fields: welcome to Kerry. The natural treasures of this county on Ireland's southwest coast serve as a model for the picturesque image that foreigners have of the country. The Ring of Kerry follows the coast of the Iveragh Peninsula, passing landmarks such as Doulus Head, Bolus Head, Moll's Gap, Torc Waterfall, the Gap of Dunloe… and also the Skellig Islands, which served as a filming location for Star Wars: The Force AwakensAtop the larger of the two islands stands an ancient monastery, reached by climbing hundreds of rock-cut steps. Halfway along the Ring of Kerry lies Waterville, where Charlie Chaplin frequently stayed and a life-size statue of him can be admired. The 179-kilometer route is more than the sum of its parts: a surprise awaits around every bend, from rivers and waterfalls to stately homes and castles. Feeling adventurous? Then take the Ring of Kerry Cycling Route, one of Ireland's most famous cycling routes.
Island of the Gods
This archipelago off the coast of Norway's far north is called "the most beautiful place on earth" and also "the island of the gods." An endless postcard of steep, jagged peaks rising from the cobalt blue ocean. Lofoten has something for everyone, from snow-capped mountains and white-sand beaches to a full calendar of adventures like whale watching, Northern Lights safaris, and deep-sea fishing, and outdoor sports like hiking, cycling, climbing, kayaking, horseback riding, skiing, and Arctic surfing. It also offers a unique cultural experience, thanks in part to its Viking history, and its countless restaurants specialize in preparing the most delicious fish dishes. Whether you visit in winter or summer, a natural spectacle is guaranteed!
Hermit monasteries
The imposing rocks with the Meteora monasteries in Thessaly, Greece, are among the most impressive monuments in the world. In 1336, Saint Athanasios founded the first monastic community there, the Great Meteora Monastery. And once one sheep has jumped the dam… 23 more monasteries followed, scattered across the rocks. Using nets tied with ropes and wooden ladders, some as long as forty meters, the monks transported the necessary goods and people to the top. Today, six are still in use. Every day, visitors from all over the world come here to visit the monasteries, to meditate, and to pray. They also come to admire the indescribable nature and architecture and to study the historical remains.
Castle of cotton
The limestone terraces of Pamukkale—about a two-hour drive from Alanya—are a spectacular sight. For many hundreds of years, warm jets of calcareous water have flowed down, forming a pristine white petrified waterfall. The Romans were convinced of the water's healing properties and saw it as a natural spa. From Pamukkale (literally "cotton castle"), you have a view of ruins from this period, including the Temple of Apollo, a bathhouse, and a theater. The baths were popular for a long time, but since Pamukkale became a World Heritage site, you no longer encounter tourists in bathrobes there.
Denmark's 'Easter Island'
A magical circle of gigantic sculptures is the artistic landmark of the Danish island of Lolland. Created by sculptor Thomas Kadziola, the enormous stone pillars offer a unique experience. The Dodecalite ('the twelve stones') has been a work in progress since 2010 with a plan to complete twelve sculptures by 2025. The composition, specially composed for this purpose by Wayne Siegel Solkreds ("sun circle") plays continuously from granite seating stones, one next to each sculpture. The sound, alternately audible and silent, consists of electronic voices that create shifting harmonies and music inspired by the nature of the South Sea Islands, which can be both beautiful and rugged.
