Where there are grand mountains, there are valleys, often overshadowed by the mountainous landscapes. However, valleys often hide many pleasant surprises like waterfalls, turquoise lakes, geological wonders and picturesque sites. Check out these ten favorite valleys of the week. Which one would you like to visit?
10. Sabie, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Down this valley a small town of Sabie is found. Surrounded with a forest, the town is situated on the Sabie River banks. These wonderful sites of the valley are taken from the Long Tom Pass. On the top of this mountain you will also find The Long Tom – a silver British cannon.
Why to go there?
A picturesque and historically prominent site, situated near the Kruger National Park, Pilgrim’s Rest, Blyde River Canyon, the Sabie waterfalls, God’s Window and Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
How to get there?
The Long Tom Pass connects Sabie with Lydenburg.
Photo by Des Jacobs
Photo by Des Jacobs
Photo by Des Jacobs
9. Jamison Valley, New South Wales, Australia
Found in the Blue Mountains, valley stretches for approximately 12 km (7.5 mi) along the high sandstone cliffs. Dense eucalyptus forest covers the area, which also features countless waterfalls. Visitors come to the valley to bushwalk and camp.
Why to go there?
Great sites, various tracks.
How to get there?
It is only 100 km from Sydney. Get there by train or bus. Get around by Blue Mountains Explorer.
Photo by Gary Hayes
Photo by Tim Hunter
Photo by Gary Hayes
Photo by Gary Hayes
8. Zabriskie Point, California, USA
Found in the east of the infamous Death Valley, Zabriskie Point offers a glimpse of a landscape, exposed to the millions of years of ferocious erosion. Visitors have to get to the hills, from where the spectacular view of this place opens.
Why to go there?
A famous site, also culturally significant because of the eponymous film.
When to go there?
Anytime except summer, when the weather gets unbearably hot.
Photo by Greg Boratyn
Photo by Mathias Unterstein
Photo by Dean Blazic
7. Waipio Valley, Big Island, Hawaii
The valley once used to be a capital and even the royal residences were settled here. A wonderful view to the ocean opens from the beach and valley, which is surrounded and locked within the steep cliffs. Moreover, a few waterfalls plunge down these walls.
Why to go there?
Beautiful site, that can be explored by hiking the Muliwai Trail.
How to get there?
You can get down to the valley by car or hike.
Photo by Hans
Photo by TakesTwo
Photo by Unknown
Photo by Mark Rogers
6. Moon Valley, Argentina
Found in the Ischigualasto Provincial Park, the valley of the Moon indeed has some unearthly landscapes. Besides the unique sites, a lot of various dinosaurs’ fossils are found here. It is said that in a moonlight its gray sand looks white, thus the name.
Why to go there?
The park is protected by UNESCO and provides a lot of wonderful sites.
How to get there?
Get to San Juan or La Rioja by car or fly to the local airports from Buenos Aires. Then drive to the park by bus or car.
Photo by Sara Reyes
Photo by Jose Ferreyra
Photo by Martin Marilungo
5. Yosemite Valley, California, USA
A mile deep glacial valley is surrounded with majestic granite rocks and summits like Half Dome and El Capitan. Among many streams and waterfalls, Merced River also flows here. The visitors can choose one of the several trails that lead through this gorgeous valley.
Why to go there?
One of the most spectacular spots in Yosemite National Park.
How to get there?
Drive Highways 41, 140, and 120. Or go by bus using Amtrak and Greyhound service.
Photo by Mark Cote
Photo by Mark Cote
Photo by Lincoln Harrison
4. Landmannalaugar, Iceland
The desolate region is among the favorite tourist destination in Iceland. The valleys sprawl between the colorful rhyolite mountains, lava fields, crater lakes and Hekla volcano. Tourists explore the terrain by hiking the comfortable trails.
Why to go there?
Great sites, nice hiking experience.
When to go there?
From June to late September – after that the road to Landmannalaugar is closed.
Read more: Vast Landscapes of Unearthly Landmannalaugar
Photo by Alban Henderyckx
Photo by Sven Broeckx
Photo by Alban Henderyckx
3. Dolomites, Italy
A mountain range in northern Italy has countless valleys. The famous spot for skiers, hikers, mountain climbers and even base jumpers, Dolomites provide some breathtaking views and edgy slopes. Just look at this stunning Seceda ridge!
Why to go there?
Great views, various activities, a lot of valleys.
When to go there?
All year round.
Photo by Lukas Furlan
Photo by Tomáš Morkes
Photo by Stefano Termanini
2. Red Stone Valley, Henan, China
Found in the Mount Yuntaishan Global Geopark, the red rock valley is strikingly beautiful. Besides the dramatic rocks, waterfalls plunge down for several stages. The valley is loved not only by tourists, but also by geologists and conservationists for its significance.
Why to go there?
Striking sites and unusual red rocks with cascading waterfalls.
How to get there?
Go there with a guided tour. The valley is 15 minutes ride by bus from Mt. Yuntai.
Photo by Wiwat Navakanon
Photo by Wiwat Navakanon
Photo by Bobby Chen
1. Valley of the Ten Peaks, Alberta, Canada
The world famous valley is notable not only for the ten peaks, but also for the turquoise Moraine Lake. The shortest peak is a little bit above 3 km (10 000 ft) height. Tourists can choose to explore the area by taking one of a few hiking trails.
Why to go there?
One of the most popular destinations in Canada, a world-famous site.
When to go there?
All year round.
Photo by Chris Muir
Photo by Chris Greenwood
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