Cliffs of Moher.Tourism Ireland
Ireland has been named as one of the top-rated global destinations for breathtaking views in a new study.
One of the best parts about visiting somewhere new is taking in all the scenery and sights. Whether you’re a sunseeker or a snow enthusiast, there are scenic views to be had in all corners of the world.
This is why the global car rental comparison site DiscoverCars.com has carried out new research into the most striking views travellers can experience.
They surveyed 5,648 drivers and asked them to rate the views of the destination they travelled to on a scale of 1-10. Only destinations that received 20 or more responses were included.
Aleksandrs Buraks, Head of Growth at DiscoverCars.com, comments:
“We think that one of the most magical parts about taking a trip is seeing all the wonderful, diverse scenery up close. In our survey, we set out to find some of the best destinations around the world with the most scenic views, according to our customers – and we weren’t disappointed!
The top 5 destinations with the best views
1. Norway
In first place is Norway with a perfect score of 10 out of 10. Norway has some of the world's most beautiful fjords, and travellers can often spot the Northern Lights. This makes it a very scenic place to visit, which is reflected in its strong score.
2. Finland
In second place with a score of 9.7 out of 10 is Finland. Like Norway, Finland has spectacular views, and travellers can also easily spot the Northern Lights. Finland also has 41 national parks, which are full of stunning natural scenery.
3. Azores Islands, Portugal
In third place, with a score of 9.6 out of 10, is the Portuguese archipelago, the Azores islands. These islands boast beautiful panoramic views, including dramatic cliffs, hot springs, and turquoise lakes. These islands remain mild in winter, making them a great year-round destination.
3. Sardinia, Italy
In joint third place with the Azores is the Italian island, Sardinia. This Mediterranean island also scored 9.6 out of 10 for its stunning scenery. Sardinia offers travellers sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, and historic architecture in its old town, Castello.
4. Ireland
In fourth place with a score of 9.5 out of 10 is Ireland. Known for its rugged cliffs and luscious greenery, Ireland boasts many stunning views for travellers to soak up. The Cliffs of Moher in County Clare and Skellig Michael Island near Portmagee are just a few.
4. Réunion
In joint fourth place with a score of 9.5 out of 10 is Réunion, a French overseas department located in the Indian Ocean near Mauritius and Madagascar. This tropical island has an active volcano, which is generally safe for tourists as eruptions are non-explosive and closely monitored. Its breathtaking mountain landscape is perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
4. Puerto Rico
Also in joint fourth place with a score of 9.5 out of 10 for its scenic views is Puerto Rico. This Caribbean island is home to beautiful white sandy beaches, a tropical rainforest, and bioluminescent bays. There’s no shortage of striking scenery to see in this tropical destination.
5. Brazil
In fifth place is Brazil with a score of 9.4 out of 10 for its picturesque views. Brazil is known for its vibrant culture, sandy beaches, and being home to 60% of the Amazon rainforest. There’s plenty of breathtaking scenery to take in, from Iguazu Falls to hiking in Tijuca National Park.
5. Chile
In joint fifth place with Brazil is Chile, which also scored 9.4 out of 10. Chile is known for its incredibly diverse landscapes and for being the southernmost country in the world. Travellers can visit the Atacama Desert in the north and experience its Mars-like landscape and salt flats. This desert is also a global hotspot for stargazing. For glaciers, lakes, and more stunning views, travellers can visit Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia.
5. Canada
Finally, rounding out the ranking in joint fifth place is Canada, which also scored 9.4 out of 10. Canada is home to plenty of impressive natural scenery – from glaciers and mountains to forests and wildlife, this huge destination has no shortage of striking views. Travellers flock to Banff National Park every year, which is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage site.