Shawna LevetIf you’ve ever dreamed of stepping into a fantasy novel or a sci-fi movie, there are many places on Earth where the line between fiction and nonfiction gets a little blurry. From ancient underwater churches to mountain pillars that seem to defy gravity, the world is full of hidden wonders waiting to be explored. Perfect for adventurous travelers or curious minds, these destinations offer more than just scenic views—they invite you to experience something truly otherworldly. Here are six dreamlike spots you should add to your bucket list.
1. Submerged Steeple – Reschensee, Italy
Imagine a lone church steeple rising out of a frozen lake like a mirage—this is Reschensee, a man-made lake in South Tyrol, Italy. In 1950, the area was intentionally flooded to create a reservoir, submerging the village of Graun beneath the water. Today, the 14th-century bell tower is all that remains visible, standing eerily in the center of the lake.
Travel Tip: Visit in winter when the lake freezes over and you can walk right up to the steeple. In summer, kayaking or paddleboarding around it offers a hauntingly beautiful experience.
2. Travertine Terraces – Pamukkale, Turkey
Pamukkale, meaning “Cotton Castle” in Turkish, looks like something out of a dream. White, fluffy-looking terraces made of calcium deposits cascade down the hillside, filled with warm, mineral-rich waters that have drawn visitors for centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was also a Roman spa town, with ruins of Hierapolis nearby to explore.
Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and capture that magical, golden-hour glow. You can walk barefoot along designated paths and soak your feet in the thermal pools.
3. Floating Mountains – Wulingyuan, China
Fans of Avatar might recognize the towering sandstone pillars of Wulingyuan in China’s Hunan Province. These natural formations inspired the floating Hallelujah Mountains in the film. Carved by erosion over millions of years, over 3,000 narrow quartzite sandstone pillars stretch skyward, often shrouded in mist, giving the landscape a surreal, ethereal vibe.
Travel Tip: Take the Bailong Elevator—the world’s tallest outdoor elevator—for jaw-dropping views from the top. You can also hike through the forested trails or ride a cable car for a bird’s-eye perspective.
4. Plitvice Lakes National Park – Croatia
Plitvice Lakes is a lush, fairytale-like wonderland of cascading waterfalls and turquoise lakes, connected by wooden boardwalks that weave through dense forest. The 16 terraced lakes, each a different hue of blue or green, flow into each other in a constantly shifting symphony of water and color.
Travel Tip: The park is open year-round, and each season brings a new kind of beauty—green and lush in summer, fiery foliage in fall, misty and moody in spring, and snow-dusted magic in winter. Wear comfy shoes and give yourself at least a full day to explore.
5. Bundi Stepwells – Bundi, India
In the arid region of Rajasthan, stepwells were ancient water storage systems, but in Bundi, they’re also stunning works of architecture. Geometric patterns, intricate carvings, and deep, symmetrical staircases give these wells a haunting beauty. The most famous, Raniji ki Baori, is a 46-meter-deep stepwell built in the 17th century and adorned with ornate pillars and arched niches.
Travel Tip: Bundi is less touristy than nearby Jaipur or Udaipur, making it a peaceful escape. Hire a local guide to learn about the history behind each stepwell and explore the town’s palaces and painted havelis (traditional homes).
6. Nine Arch Bridge – Ella, Sri Lanka
Tucked into Sri Lanka’s lush highlands, the Nine Arch Bridge is a colonial-era marvel made entirely of stone and brick. Set against a backdrop of rolling tea plantations and jungle, the curved viaduct feels like something out of a Studio Ghibli film. When the train comes through—often slowly—it’s a moment of pure cinematic magic.
Travel Tip: For a stunning photo op, hike to one of the nearby viewpoints—like the trail from Demodara Station or the lookout near Asanka Café. These spots offer panoramic views of the bridge and surrounding valley, and you can catch the train passing from a safe distance. Bring a camera and some patience—the view is worth the wait.
Which dreamy destination is next on your list?
Traveling doesn’t always have to be about landmarks or popular cities. Sometimes, the most unforgettable experiences come from finding places that stir your imagination and transport you to a different world. Whether it’s a sunken steeple in Italy or sky-high sandstone towers in China, these destinations promise more than a vacation—they offer a chance to dream with your eyes wide open.
So if you’re ready to step beyond the ordinary and into the extraordinary, start with one of these dreamy spots. Who knows? You might just come back with stories that sound like they belong in a fantasy novel.
