Love might be a purely human conceit, but nature can be pretty romantic too.
Heart-shaped wonders can be found around the world – from the heights of the French Alps to the depths of canyons – sure, you can say they were created due to natural occurrences and formation, but we think that makes them even more special.
So here we have a list of the best and most beautiful Valentine-worthy, heart-shaped natural wonders that deserve a spot on your travel list. Get ready to feel the love!
Heart-Shaped Sam Phan Bok, Thailand
Lovingly known as the ‘Grand Canyon of Thailand’, Sam Phan Bok translates to 3000 holes, and this is a pretty accurate description of what you’ll find here. This magical wonder has been created as if each rock was carved out piece-by-piece, leaving a ground full of oddly-shaped doodles, dogs, the famed ‘Mickey Mouse’ rock, and of course the romantic heart-shaped rock. The rocks are surrounded by the Mekong river, whose water fills up the cracks in the hollow rocks, transforming them into a paradisiacal and breathtaking sight!
Heart-Shaped Lago di Scanno, Italy
This heart-shaped, luscious turquoise lake is located in the ancient town of Scanno, within the province of L’Aquila in Italy that is famous for its iridescent colours and natural wonders. Local legend has it that the lake was created by a feud between a white witch and a sorcerer and the lake was where the witch finally fell. The town itself boasts plenty of history, character, folklore and local craftsmanship such as the ancient art of making lace. Visitors have plenty to see and do while visiting the town and the lake.
Heart-Shaped Shimshal Lake, Pakistan
Found nestled in Hunza Valley, Shimshal Lake is a well-loved national treasure in Pakistan. Shimshal is known as ‘The Valley of Mountaineers’ and the remoteness of this area attracts tourists from around the world. This beautiful lake was created from melting glaciers and the resultant accumulation of water. As chance would have it, the lake is a pristine heart-shaped formation, lending it the charm that so attracts travellers!
Heart-Shaped Lake Calvaresc, Switzerland
The ‘Heart Lake’, tucked away between Calanca and Mesolcina Valley in the Swiss Alps, is a hiker’s delight. It takes a bit of a trek to get here, but it’s worth it in the end – the secluded lake is the perfect place to bring out your inner romantic. Although a dip in its green-blue waters is recommended in the summer, it’ll be too frigid for a Valentine’s Day swim – but don’t let that get you down. A cosy stay in one of the nearby mountain huts will have you feeling warm and fuzzy.
Australia’s Heart-Shaped Reef
The Great Barrier Reef in Queensland isn’t just popular with Aussies – it’s an internationally renowned tourist destination drawing thousands of tourists each year. With coral beds bursting with marine life, it’s a natural treasure and an incomparable experience. But even if you’ve already visited or even dived the reef, you might not know about its secret heart. The ‘Heart Reef’ is found in Hardy Reef – take a helicopter ride to get a bird’s eye-view of this breathtaking wonder. If you have a marriage proposal in mind, then Heart Reef is meant especially for you and your loved one.
