One visit to the Yorkshire Dales and it’s easy to understand why the unspoiled countryside is the setting of so many novels. Must-see sights among the land’s lush woodlands and expansive moors include Hardraw Force (the longest single-drop waterfall in the North), Gordale Scar, and well-known hill range, the Three Peaks. Less adventurous visitors can rest easy, walking through the manicured lawns of Parcevall Hall Gardens or appreciating Skipton Castle’s medieval architecture. Although some prefer to take in the land’s wild beauty by foot or horse, the most popular way is via one of the park’s famed cycling routes.

The largest national park in Europe, Vatnajokull combines thick blue ice caves, black sand beaches, waterfalls, and even lush green fields to create an otherworldly landscape that begs to be explored. Ásbyrgi, a canyon known for its distinct horseshoe shape, is a must for those hoping to discover local woodland. Whether climbing Iceland’s highest peak, Hvannadalshnúkur, or hiking to the Detifoss waterfall, the country’s scenic terrain and breathtaking geological formations can’t be missed.

The bubbling, turquoise crystalline pools of Plitvice Lakes National Park comprise one of Croatia's most popular tourist destinations. Just a two-hour drive from Zagreb, the national park offers 50 acres of forest and lake. In winter, it's a wonderland of frozen waterfalls. In summer, the park is lush with greenery. Wooden walkways and hiking trails traverse the porous karst limestone. This World Heritage Site is a veritable wildlife haven, home to everything from birds to boars and even bears.

When it comes to outdoor activities, the Peak District National Park is the whole package. Located in the north of England, the park offers everything from horse riding to rock climbing, windsurfing to paragliding, plus walking trails galore. One trail, Derwent Valley Heritage Way, allows you to take in the area’s open landscape while also showcasing its industrial roots. Discovering hidden underground formations at such spots as Titan Cave (the highest natural cavern in the U.K.) is another popular pastime. Best of all, there are camp- and RV sites throughout so guests can settle into these surroundings.

If you need a word to perfectly describe New Forest, “welcoming” would be it. The lowland (i.e. no mountains) park is filled with scenic views and wide trails that beg to be explored as they wind through centuries-old woodlands. Visit Bolderwood, a protected forest and deer sanctuary that was once the hunting grounds of the Norman kings. Fish at Moors Valley before heading skyward for a treetops walk. Prefer the country-house life? Head to Beaulieu, where you can get lost in the Victorian-era at the Palace House before following in the footsteps of medieval monks at the property’s abbey.

Featuring limestone cliffs, cave systems (the largest of which—the Hundidero-Gato complex —has prehistoric origins), and deep gorges, it’s no wonder that Sierra de Grazalema is considered to be one of Spain’s most stunning ecological landscapes. Budding botanists can lose themselves in more than 1,300 different species of flora, while birders will delight in the prospect of seeing communities of Bonelli’s eagles and the endangered Egyptian vulture. More into mammals? The UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is also home to genets, mountain goats, and otters

The largest national park in Spain, Sierra Nevada is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream. The rugged terrain includes mountains and gorges made for hiking (Los Cahorros is a favourite with its limestone cliffs and hanging bridges), icy plunge pools for swimming, and plentiful tunnels and caves to explore. Those that aren’t so adventure-inclined can make their own excitement roaming through the many villages dotted throughout Las Alpujarras. The famous Alhambra castle and fortress is also close by, inspiring visitors with its breathtaking architecture and gardens.

If you’re looking for a holiday spot that’s exciting year-round, then Uludag National Park is it. Here, visitors can find Uludağ mountain (the highest in northwest Turkey and one of the country’s most popular winter-sports centres) and its powder-covered slopes. The peak’s nine glacial lakes are also a must-visit spot, though they sadly dry up in the summer. In warmer months, visitors hike away in search of the icy Aras waterfall and to explore the rich forests that house the 104 native species of flora found in the area.

Man and nature coexist in harmony in the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche Natural Park. Part of the Sierra Morena mountain system, this protected landscape has it all: high peaks and rocky cliffs, quaint villages, and wooded valleys shaded by Mediterranean oak and chestnut groves. The area is easily explored on foot via a system of walking paths, allowing visitors to properly take in the vivid green grass and colourful wildflowers. Make sure to taste the local fare while you’re here—this region is particularly known for its Iberian black pork and wild mushrooms.

Step back in time and imagine Italy as it was during 550 B.C. At least, that’s what you can do when you visit The Cilento—home to the remains of two ancient Greek cities: Paestum and Velia. To experience life a little later on, head to the Certosa di Padula, a Carthusian monastery (and World Heritage site) that dates back to 1306 and is known for its Baroque-style architecture. The park’s landscape also hints at these forgotten times with its vast seaside views and deep cave systems such as the Grotte di Castelcivita.