The Coolest Photos Of Off The Beaten Path Destinations Around The World

If you're looking for something different and out of the ordinary, plan your next vacation somewhere off the beaten path.

The world's top travel destinations have rightfully earned their praises. However, tourists are constantly visiting these places and the crowds can seem endless. For travelers looking for a less populated spot, there are beautiful places all over the world that you may have never heard of.

From the gorgeous Lake Atitlan in Guatemala to Bordeaux, France, these offbeat secret gems are some of the most thrilling places in the world.

Here are some of the coolest photos of off the beaten path destinations around the world.

-Nicole Dossantos

Also known as Ko Lanta Yai, this off the beaten path destination is a luxurious getaway, mostly taken advantage of by European tourists. Enjoy their mile long beaches, go on a tour around the beautiful lake, take advantage of the incredible dive spots and don't forget to climb Volcano Atitlan.

With some of the best weather and views in the world, Lake Atitlan is a must-see by travelers. Because of its growing population, the environment has increased overtime. Enjoy a variety of activities and tours, and take in the beauty of the colorful Mayan Villages.

Atitlan.com

Home to the famous Arches National Park is Moab, Utah. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and capture photos of the red rock landscape and the incredible wildlife. While you are there, go on a hike, bike ride, rock climb, mountain biking, rafting, backpacking or take a camping trip.

Travelers looking for a mix of adventure and tranquility, look no further than Palawan. The island of Palawan has been declared as a nature sanctuary of the world. It is composed of incredible dive sites, rainforests and stunning mountains. Enjoy their beautiful beaches with crystal blue waters, amazing landscapes, thrilling caves and variety of marine life.

Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea. Visit Chania for a sense of history, Rethymno for gorgeous mountain escapes, and Heraklion for an abundance of archaeological treasures. Explore beautiful beaches, impressive vistas, picturesque villages, steep gorges and indulge in the islands gastronomic culture. Visitgreece.gr

Also known as Sliabh Liag, these cliffs are known to be one of the highest and finest marine cliffs in Europe. Enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Donegal Bay and the Sligo Mountains. If you're really up for it, head all the way to the top, where the cliff rises approximately 600m above the ocean.

Discoverireland.ie

Lake Louise, one of Canada's most iconic lakes, it is located in Alberta's Banff National Park. It is your perfect summer or winter vacation destination. In the winter Lake Louise provides one of the most scenic skating rinks in the country. While in the summer it provides otherworldly paddling opportunities.

Banfflakelouise.com

The Atacama Desert covers approximately 600 miles of land on the Pacific coast. It's composed of sand, stony terrain and felsic lava. Due to the unusual vast amounts of rainfall, the Atacama Desert was able to grow and cover itself in pink flowers just a few months ago.

Fun Fact: It is also known as the driest place on Earth, and that's why we're so lucky to see the growth of the beautiful pink flowers.

Great bars, a lively nightlife, delicious foods, music festivals and beautiful beaches are just some of the many things you have to look forward to when visiting San Sebastian. San Sebastian made our list for The Coolest Surf Towns in the World, and for good reason. Surfing is their most popular activity. The best time to go and catch some awesome breaks is between June and November.

Located on the Garonne River in southwestern France is Bordeaux. If you are a wine enthusiast, this is the perfect destination for you.  Bordeaux is known as the world's major wine industry capitol and is home to Vinexpo – a world famous wine fair. Enjoy their incredible architecture, delicious foods and explore their magical gardens. Make sure you visit the Water Mirror, Jardin Public garden, the Monument aux Girondins and the Tower of Pey-Berland.

Set above a deep gorge is the mountaintop city, Ronda. It is known for its rich cultural and literary tradition.

It is also the home of modern bullfighting. Attend the Feria Goyesca festival in September; According to andalucia.com, it "brings together art, horsemanship and la corrida with exquisite historic costumes and colorful processions in this atmospheric mountain town."

Bruges is an incredible destination to visit as a solo traveler. There are tons of things to do and even more things to explore. Some things to do include – making some friends at the De Halve Maan Brewery, learning the history of chocolate at the Choco-Story museum, and visiting the Historic Centre of Brugge – a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

We have all heard of the famous Temple of Heaven in Beijing, but many of us may not have heard of the Lama Temple, also known as the Yonghe Palace and "the Palace of Peace and Harmony." Bring your camera to capture photos of the decorated archways, sculptures of Buddha, carved murals and main halls.

Chinatour.com

The Chimborazo volcano is the highest volcano in Ecuador. It has erupted approximately seven times during the past 10,000 years. Studies have shown that it is still an active volcano. For more information on Mount Chimborazo see – Forget Everest, Mount Chimborazo is the Tallest.

Hikers, campers and mountain bikers, this is you're ultimate off the beaten path destination. Capture incredible mountain views, deserts and ponderosa pine forests almost everywhere you turn. Don't forget to visit the Sunset Crater Volcano National Monument and the Wupatki National Monument.