Sometimes the perfect holiday spot or bucket-list destination isn't about metropolitan hubs or resorts. Sometimes, the perfect destination is one that makes you believe in magic.
On our lists for 2026 is a different kind of travel; one that seeks out postcard perfect alternatives to the most popular travel hotspots. An exploration of places with a mystical current that reminds us of the spellbinding power of nature. Here, we've researched and rounded up our list of ethereal places and destinations to add to your vacation wish list. From enchanting forests that will make you believe in fairies to fjords that look like they're home to the Norse gods, wanderlust awaits.
1. Sintra, Portugal
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Less than an hour's drive outside of Lisbon is Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site that looks like it's straight from a fairytale. It's famous for its Disney-esque castles, especially Quinta da Regaleira which features the ivy and moss internal spiral staircase you've probably already seen in pictures.
2. Studlagil Canyon, Iceland
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Arguably most of Iceland should make it onto a list of most ethereal places. This island nation is home to some of the most breathtaking scenescapes in the world courtesy of its volcanic origins. Studlagil Canyon in particular makes the list owing to its stick-like rock formations and bright blue waters which makes it looks like something from a fantasy novel.
3. The Lysefjord, Norway
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All of Norway's Fjords are spectacular, but the Lysefjord will have you feeling like a character from Frozen the moment you see it. The 42km stretch of towering cliffs is particularly special at sunrise and sunset.
4. Milford Sound, New Zealand
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This world-famous, New Zealand fiord is in the country's Fiordland National Park. The dramatic mountains rolling into crystal clear waters remind us exactly why fantasy epic Lord of the Rings was filmed in New Zealand.
5. Overland Track Tasmania, Australia
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This multi-day alpine track is not for the faint-hearted. It's an enduring 65km trek through the heart of Cradle Mountain, and offers some of the most incredible views in the entire world. It can feel like you're in another world.
6. Scottish Highlands, Scotland
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This mountainous region in the Northern part of Scotland has some of the most dramatic landscapes in the world. Deep icy lochs, green forest glens and plenty of rolling hills. Is it any wonder that this scenescape served as the inspiration for the fictional location of Harry Potter's Hogwarts?
7. Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, Japan
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Just outside of Kyoto is Arashiyama, home of one of Japan's largest bamboo groves. There are many pathways to explore, each framed by the towering lengths of bamboo. The rest of Arashiyama is also magical in its own way, a long, blue river surrounded by whispering trees that turn bronze during the autumn months.
8. Waitomo Caves, New Zealand
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Have you ever seen a cave glow without the aid of man-made lighting? New Zealand's Waitomo Caves are famous for its blue starry ceiling that is naturally illuminated by a colony of glow worms. It truly looks like a scene from Fern Gully.
9. Pamukkale, Türkiye
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Famous for its white travertine terraces filled with cascading mineral springs, Pamukkale is quite unlike any other location on Earth. This site in Western Türkiye is UNESCO World Heritage listed and one of the most unique destinations for bucket list travellers.
10. Stonehenge, England
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The world-famous prehistoric site is arguably one of the most magical destination in the world. It's believed to be an ancient temple used for sun and moon ceremonies dating back to 3000 BC. This destination is a pillar of folklore and many travellers report experiencing a powerful, magical feeling when they visit the site.
11. Otzarreta Forest, Spain
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This spooky forest in the Basque region of Spain looks like something from a gothic novel. It's about 45km from the Basque capital, Bilbao, this is a showcase of the darkly and haunting place serves as the setting for much of the local folklore.
12. Dragon's Blood Forest, Yemen
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Located on the island of Socotra, this forest is famous for its unique "Dragon's Blood" trees. Another UNESCO World Heritage site, Dragon's Blood Forest almost looks like an alien planet from a sci-fi film.
13. Atacama Lakes, Chile
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Among the Atacama Salt Flats is this region of high-altitude lagoons. The water here is so still that the lakes look like mirrors that perfectly reflect the unique mountain landscapes. It's a kind of eerie, vast beauty that feels almost Martian.
Image one: Arnaud Civray on Unsplash
Image two: Sourav Bhaduri on Unsplash
