1. The Dark Hedges in Northern Ireland
This is a location that is lush with history, a gorgeous and intertwined forest that was planted by the Stuart family in the 18th Century. These trees show their age with knotting branches that curve to make a roof over your head as you walk, but in a pleasant way. It gives off the air of elegance and decor in a way that younger forests don’t.
This theme of elegant landscape goes along with the reason that the Stuart family planted the trees: to create an impressive scene for when visitors and neighbours headed home. Today it is a beautiful peaceful place that is popular for photography and painting. It is also home to a “Grey Lady” who haunts the walkway at dusk.
2. Street in Bonn, Germany
This beautiful canopy of pink flowers brightens up the city street in Bonn, giving a natural flair to a modern landscape. Every Spring, the flowers bloom in these gorgeous slender trees to provide an eye-catching roof that will make you forget about your stress and enjoy the moment in the sweet aroma of the street. The large flowers stay for two to three weeks, providing a beautiful show for the street’s residents, and then flutter down to the ground to create a carpet of sweet, pink petals.
3. Wisteria Flower Tunnel, Japan
For the flower enthusiast, this is a must-see. This flower tunnel is in Kitakyushu, Japan, and is home to over 150 Wisteria plants that twist and form a beautiful purple tunnel that is perfect for a leisurely stroll. One of the avenues of this garden is a tunnel that is entirely covered – every inch – with wisterias that hang down and create a soft and romantic atmosphere for those that wander through. It is definitely a sight to see.
4. Oak Alley along the Mississippi River outside New Orleans, Louisiana
This is a sight from one of those Jane Austen movies, a classic sight that is all natural and beautiful. The trees are massive and friendly stretching up to the sky at such an angle that they let the misty sunlight filter through and create an intellectual and calming walk through this 800 feet long. Originally a plantation, this sight is historic and relaxing all at once.
5. Jacarandas Walk in South Africa
One of the largest manmade forests in the world, this is a sweet smelling walk that is full of history at 100 years of age. Over 7 000 trees make up this mostly imported forest, and it is a nice break for the eyes and soul as you take a walk through and get away from the modern that is all about go-go-go. This one of a kind location gives you the space needed to take a deep breath, unwind, and enjoy an afternoon in nature.
