Beyond Borders: The 5 Most Beautiful Lakes to Visit Outside of the U.S.

Sometimes, you just need to step out of your comfort zone—and your country—to find the kind of natural beauty that makes you stop and say, “Wow, is this even real?” Lakes are having a moment, and for good reason. They offer amazing views, a calmer vibe than crowded beaches, and a ton of opportunities for adventure (or lounging with a cocktail in hand). If you want to explore lakes beyond the U.S., here’s your cheat sheet of 5 top lakes to travel on your next trip.

Lake Como, Italy 🇮🇹

Lake Como isn’t just a destination—it’s a mood. It’s the place where life slows down and every moment feels like a scene from a Fellini film. Picture sipping Aperol spritzes at golden hour, gazing out at the sparkling lake framed by the Alps, and asking yourself why you don’t live here full-time (or how George Clooney managed to snag such prime real estate).

Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Tremezzo
This five-star hotel has old-world glamour, complete with art nouveau design, beautiful gardens, and jaw-dropping views of the lake. Lounge in one of their three pools (including a floating one on the lake itself), or claim a spot on the private beach and soak up that Italian dolce vita vibe.

What to Do:
Start your day by renting a vintage Riva boat, wear oversized sunglasses, and pretend you’re in an Italian rom-com. Cruise past elegant villas and cute towns like Bellagio and Varenna. Once you’re back on land, take a walk down the cobblestone streets, eat some gelato, and explore Villa Carlotta’s botanical gardens. If you’re up for a short hike, the Greenway del Lago di Como has amazing views.

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Lake Geneva, Switzerland/France 🇨🇭🇫🇷

Lake Geneva is where sophistication meets nature. With its calm waters bordered by the Alps, local vineyards, and nearby medieval villages, this lake needs a spot on your travel bucket list. Whether you’re sipping wine in Lavaux or admiring Château de Chillon’s storybook charm, every corner of this lake is a postcard waiting to happen.

Where to Stay: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace
Located in the heart of Montreux, this hotel combines Belle Époque elegance with modern luxury. Its lakeside location has breathtaking views, and the Willow Stream Spa is the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring.

What to Do:
Hop aboard a lake cruise to take in the scenery from the water. Wine lovers should head to the Lavaux Vineyard Terraces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for a glass (or two) of local Chasselas wine. If history is your thing, explore Château de Chillon, located dramatically on the lake’s edge. And if you’re visiting in summer, don’t miss the world-famous Montreux Jazz Festival.

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Lake Louise, Canada 🇨🇦

Located in the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise is like a supermodel of lakes—always photogenic, no matter the season. Its turquoise waters are so bright they almost don’t seem real, surrounded by jagged peaks that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a painting.

Where to Stay: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
This iconic hotel has front-row seats to Lake Louise’s beauty. Wake up to panoramic views, then enjoy a day of mountain adventures before winding down at the spa. The hotel also provides guided hikes, perfect for exploring the beautiful surroundings.

What to Do:
In summer, paddle across the lake in a canoe, or hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers for views that will leave you speechless. Winter changes the lake into a snowy wonderland, perfect for ice skating or sleigh rides. If you’re able to wake up for it, don’t forget to take a photo at sunrise—the colors are nothing short of magical.

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Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand 🇳🇿

Lake Wakatipu is the jewel of Queenstown, perfect for both adrenaline junkies and nature lovers. Surrounded by the Southern Alps, this S-shaped lake feels almost in another world, and its mirrored surface makes for incredible reflections.

Where to Stay: Eichardt’s Private Hotel
This boutique hotel has a mix of chic modern design and classic comfort. Located in the heart of Queenstown, it’s the perfect base for exploring the area’s adventure offerings, with lake views that make every morning magical.

What to Do:
Embrace Queenstown’s reputation as the adventure capital of the world by trying jet boating on the Shotover River—it’s like a rollercoaster, but on water. Afterward, take a sunset cruise on the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship or relax with wine tasting in nearby Central Otago, known for its Pinot Noir.

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Lake Bled, Slovenia 🇸🇮

Lake Bled is pure magic. With its emerald-green waters, a tiny island with a church on top, and a clifftop castle, it feels like it’s straight out of a storybook. Small yet captivating, it’s the perfect spot for a quiet or romantic getaway.

Where to Stay: Hotel Vila Bled
Once a presidential retreat, this hotel combines historical charm with modern luxury. The views of the lake and the Julian Alps are amazing, and the quiet ambiance will make you feel like royalty.

What to Do:
Rent a traditional wooden pletna boat and row to the island to ring the church bell—it’s said to bring good luck. Hike up to Bled Castle for panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. And no trip to Lake Bled is complete without trying kremšnita, the famous Bled cream cake, at a lakeside café.

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Ready to Plan Your Trip?

Lakes are underrated, and it’s time they got their moment in the spotlight. They’re less crowded than beaches, they’re surrounded by some of the most amazing landscapes on Earth, and they have the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Trip planning doesn’t have to be stressful. If all this lake inspiration has you itching to pack your bags, let me handle the details. Whether you want a lux escape in Italy or an adventure in New Zealand, I’ll take care of everything.