10 Hill Stations Around the World for a Picture-Perfect Vacation

Surely, you’ve been asked the question about where you would rather be, in the hills or by the sea? But it’s not something you can choose really, each have their advantages and quirks but just in case you happen to be a hill person, this post highlights some of the most incredible hill stations around the world:

Located in Ladakh district, in the state of Jammu and Kashmir, Leh offers a very unique experience. The landscapes may seem stark, but they are also magnificent. In this region, you’ll find some of the highest motorable roads in the world, marvellous blue skies and phenomenal views. As Leh has its own airport, it also proves to be more easily accessible than some of the other amazing hill stations in the Indian Himalayas. Furthermore, there is no shortage of great places to stay, eat and of course visit for the day. Besides the natural wonders, Leh has many monasteries and other historical sites that will give you a good insight about the area.

2. Pokhara, Nepal

A paradise for adventure enthusiasts, this destination offers a range of different experiences. It has always been a popular tourist spot as it provides breath-taking views of the Himalayan Mountains and lakes. Recently, it has proven to be the hub for a number of outdoor activities like trekking and extreme sports like rafting, kayaking and, paragliding. As the city has developed significantly over the years, you’ll find a mix of activities to fill your day. To reach Pokhara, you can either take another flight from Kathmandu airport or come by road, which would be a 6-to-7-hour drive.

3. Da Lat, Vietnam

Known as the city of eternal spring, Da Lat was set up to entertain French vacationers who wished to escape the warmer climate. As a lot of the establishments were set up during the time of the French occupation of Vietnam, French Colonial architecture is prominent in the town. As you venture out into the outskirts, you’re greeted by lush forests, thriving gardens and serene lakes.

The town has always been popular for honeymooners as its natural beauty makes one feel at ease with one another. Besides providing for quiet intimate experiences, the markets and cafes in Da Lat are also worth exploring. And to get here, all you need to do is get on a 30 min flight from Ho Chi Minh City.

4. Lecco, Italy

Only an hour-long drive from Milan, this lakeside community is located in the foothills of the Bergamo Alps. Unlike other towns on the hills surrounding Lake Como, Lecco is very quiet and you can head down to the lake for a swim in the summer. During the winter time, you also have easy access to the ski slopes.

The region also boasts of its rich culinary heritage, you’ll find that there are a variety of delicacies that you certainly must sample. To make sure you build a good appetite, explore the cycling and walking routes against the dramatic backdrop of the alpine mountains.

The state of Tyrol is located in western Austria, in the heart of the Alps. Due to its natural landscape, the state has become famous for its ski resorts and also its diversity. The capital city Innsbruck is an urban hub with all the amenities that modern cities offer and what makes it unique are the majestic alpine mountains that surround it. In the entire state there are 500 mountain peaks that rise over 3000 meters above sea level. While skiing is a winter sport, Tyrol is also worth visiting in the summer. Come and enjoy the scenic hikes, the fabulous infrastructure, the historic sites and the folk traditions.

6. Grindelwald, Switzerland

Its no mystery that the alps are homes to some of the most spectacular destinations in the world. And Grindelwald is another located in Switzerland’s Bernese Alps; Grindelwald is a delightful village that has ample scope for excitement and relaxation, both in good measure.

The village provides as a base for adventure enthusiasts who want to attempt the climb on the North face of Eiger mountain. As a matter of fact, the village is known locally as, ‘the vibrant Eiger village’. In the winter time, you’ll find plenty of ski enthusiasts and in the summer, there is no dearth of outdoor activities that will keep you occupied.

7. Bled, Slovenia

Situated in the southern part of the Karawanks mountain range, the town is home to Lake Bled. In the centre of the lake, is a little island that makes for a perfect little day trip. You can either take a paddle boat or a pletna, depending on how adventurous you are feeling. Another popular activity is the walk around the lake; it’s 6 km and takes about an hour and a half.

For enhanced views, there are trails that take you up into the surrounding mountains and you should also consider visiting the Bled Castle. The lake with the mountains rising around it makes this town look incredibly romantic and, it wouldn’t be a surprise if you never wanted to leave.

8. Fussen, Germany

Though the town is most famous for its 19^thcentury Neuschwanstein Castle, there are multiple other reasons to visit Fussen. Surrounded by Alpine mountains, the town appears to be something out of a fairy-tale, and as a matter of fact, both Sleeping Beauty and Cinderella’spalaces are inspired by the Neuschwanstein Castle.

When is Fussen you should certainly take a stroll around the old town, drive along the romantic road and explore the Bavarian countryside to your heart’s content. There are plenty of outdoor activities that will enable you to interact with the beautiful surroundings and get to know the place. Furthermore, it’ only an hour and 40-minute drive from the city of Munich.

9. Ushuaia, Argentina

Located on the southern most tip of South America, this town is absolutely stunning. Nicknamed, ‘the end of the world’, the windswept terrain is encompassed by the Martial Mountains and the Beagle Channel. Vivid colours characterize the landscape in every season and make your time here hard to forget.

The ancient forests, the glacial lakes and the martial glacier all provide ample opportunities to spend your time if you enjoy being out and exploring. If you are feeling particularly adventurous, you can also sign-up Classic Antarctic cruise, which takes you through the Drake passage and can also include stopovers in South Georgia and Falklands, which are very special destinations.

10. Wanaka, New Zealand

This country is known for its splendid natural beauty and its no surprise that it is home to one of the most beautiful hill stations in the world. While there are numerous spots that you must visit if you travel to New Zealand, what makes Wanaka special is how it is spectacularly beautiful it is all year round. If you prefer warmer climate then a good time tovisit is between December and March. However, the winter is a great time too, specially if you enjoy skiing. Be it sky-diving, cycling, trekking, sailing or just about any adventure sport you can think of, Wanaka is the place to be.

While the top 10 may be covered, there’s a few more places that need to be mentioned as they too offer unique experiences that will steal your heart away. If you happen to be planning a multicity tour and need to chart out a route that works, you must also consider including Denmark, Finland and, Russia. We hope we’ve been helpful and we wish you joyous and adventurous travels in the times to come.