Top Cities Surrounded By Nature

The best of both worlds…that’s what you get when you visit one of these beautiful cities. Outdoor enthusiasts and those in need of a little nature therapy, will love the balance these places provide. Whether located among mountains, beside the sea or just a hop, skip and a jump away from beaches, lakes and other natural areas, these are 10 gems you don’t want to miss.

Vancouver, British Columbia
Vancouver has acquired quite the reputation these days, in the best way possible. It has been called the cool North America sibling. Everywhere you look in this sophisticated city, you’ll see water or mountains…or both. You’ll find ski slopes just 30 minutes from downtown and beaches filled with sunbathers in the summer. Rainforests and gorgeous foliage also make Vancouver one of the most beautiful cities in the world. As you can imagine, outdoor adventures are never too far. Whether you want to explore Whistler, the Canadian Rockies, Victoria or Vancouver Island nearby.

Seattle, Washington
Seattle is nicknamed the Emerald City for a reason…its greenery can be enjoyed year-round. There are so many ways to take in the city’s natural beauty: paddle, boat, sail or fish, go whale watching, peek at Mountain Rainier or hike any of the three nearby national parks. Let the stunning panoramic skyline views of this Pacific Northwest urban oasis sweep you off your feet. With Lake Washington in the east and Puget sound to the west, you can partake in all the water sports and sight-seeing cruises your heart desires.

Singapore
In Singapore, you don’t need to leave the city to appreciate nature. According to the Environmental Performance Index, a sustainability study by Yale University and the United Nations, Singapore happens to be the greenest city in Asia. Visitors are often shocked by just how green the island really is despite its high population density. You’ll notice many green buildings around the city, but one initiative that really stands out is the Gardens by the Bay, which consists of vertical gardens that reach up to 164 feet high. Other popular options include taking a night safari, visiting the Singapore Botanic Gardens, a river safari or safari & hiking around Mt. Faber Park & the Southern Ridges.

Reykjavik, Iceland
Iceland is filled with magical, otherworldy landscapes that will make you wonder if you’ve just stepped into a fantasy novel. And the entry to this enthralling country is Reykjavik. Once you arrive there, you can access countless natural wonders like canyons, glaciers, volcanos, lava fields, waterfalls, freshwater springs, dramatic coastlines, black-sand beaches, fjords and geothermal lagoons. Maybe you’ll see the Northern Lights or go whale watching capital of Europe. Spy some puffins in in the summer. Trek through nature reserves. No matter where you look, there’s something striking to be amazed by here.

Auckland, New Zealand
It’s no surprises that Auckland has been rated the 3rd most livable city in the world, with it’s mix of urban adventures and natural wonders. In this metropolis, everything is within a half hour of gorgeous beaches, islands and hiking trails. It’s sunny climate most of the year is a big plus as well. You can immerse yourself in this stunning natural playground by exploring lush rainforests that plummet downhill to meet the sea on black-sand beaches. Or get lost in a nearby vineyard, country gardens, pristine forests and calm bays. For an amazing view of the city and harbor, or a perfect picnic spot, check out one of Aucklands 48 volcanic cones.

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