Mount Taranaki, New Zealand

Mount Taranaki is New Zealand's most perfectly formed volcano. The snow-capped cone of Mt Taranaki lures visitors who appreciate geological phenomena. Apart from one small bump - a subsidiary vent called Fantham's Peak - the mountain's cone is beautifully symmetrical. Mount Taranaki is around 120,000 years old and last erupted in 1775. The volcanologists agree that the mountain is 'dormant' rather than extinct.

Often described as New Zealand’s most climbed mountain, Mt Taranaki provides non-mountaineers with an achievable summit challenge. The main climbing route to the summit starts at North Egmont, and you need to allow 6 to 8 hours for the return trip. Climbing to the summit is achievable for experienced hikers in all seasons – although winter is more difficult – and is best done with a guide.

Landmannalaugar, Iceland

Landmannalaugar is a vast area of stunning and unique beauty in the heart of Iceland's southern Highlands. Throughout the summer, it is one of the most popular places for hiking and natural hot spring bathing.

Landmannalaugar is made up of windswept rhyolite mountains, a rock type that creates a full spectrum of dazzling colour. Shades of red, pink, green, blue and golden yellow make for an ethereal location. This dramatic region is nestled beside the raven-black Laugahraun lava field, a sweeping expanse of dried magma which originally formed in an eruption in 1477.

Landmannalaugar was historically best known for its natural geothermal baths. For centuries, it served as an area of shelter and respite for weary travellers who use these soothing springs as a means to relax after tiring excursions. Originally, those attending were settlers crossing the barren highlands, but today, they are tourists after an exciting trip.

The most popular road leading to Landmannalaugar, Sigölduleið, has such springs, and takes you past multiple stunning natural features, including Bláhylur lake, a magnificent body of water nestled in a dormant volcanic crater.

Edelweissspitze, Austria

Edelweissspitze is a high mountain road located in the Austrian state of Salzburg. It’s a sideroad of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

Edelweissspitze is 1.7 km long and takes you to the Edelweisshütte mountain inn. At an elevation of 2,571 m above the sea level, it is the highest accessible point of the Grossglockner High Alpine Road.

The drive up to the Edelweissspitze is definitely worth it. In addition to the Edelweisshütte's culinary deligts, you get to enjoy the amazing view of 37 3,000 m peaks and 19 glaciers.