Sunsets are one of the most beautiful times of the day. It's when your dream holiday destination comes to light in a dazzlingly array of colours. Of the 50 plus countries we've visited - here are the most incredible spots we've found to watch the sunset in 2017.
1. LOFOTEN ISLANDS NORWAY
In the polar winter, December through mid January, the sun will sit just below the horizon providing hours of incredible, breathtaking beauty in the skies. It's like a sunset that lasts for three hours! Listen to the ice cracking as the sun's warmth begins to take hold.
Show me where Lofoton is on google maps
2. FOLEGANDROS GREECE
Folegandros is without a doubt one of the most beautiful (and still undiscovered) islands in Greece. Climb to the top of the island where a stunning white church (Church of Panagia, Virgin Mary) is perched precariously next to a huge cliff. The church looks back over the island - the perfect place to sit and watch the sun melt into the sea.
Show me where Folegandros is on google maps
3. AIGUINES FRANCE
Position yourself on the hilltop above Aiguines overlooking idyllic vineyards, an ancient village, a beautiful lake, and a spectacular castle on the left.
Show me where Aiguines is on google maps
4. MONTE BALDO ITALY
On top of one of the tallest mountains in northern Italy you'll witness magic. Reaching the peak of Monte Baldo is an easy drive followed by 30 minute walk, where you'll find yourself overlooking a huge lake (Lago di Garda) and beautiful mountains extending over to Switzerland.
Show me where Monte Baldo is on google maps
5. THE BEACHES OF SRI LANKA
Walk along any beach on this teardrop shaped island and during sunrise or sunset you’ll be sure to see the most beautiful shades of pink. The light reflects off the turquoise ocean and the coconut trees make for perfect tropical silhouettes. This photo was taken at a resort called Uga Bay on a north eastern beach called Pasekudah.
Show me where Sri Lanka is on google maps
6. THE CASTLES ATOP SAN MARINO
At the peak of San Marino, watch the sun pass above the horizon as the morning fog begins to lift, revealing one of the smallest countries in the world. There’s no place that will take you back in time like this one.
Show me where San Marino is on google maps
7. THE DOLOMITES ITALY
The Dolomites is the largest mountain range in Italy, and has dozens of hiking trails where you can admire a seemingly endless array of soaring jagged peaks.
You can also easily climb one of the most dramatic mountains to the base of the Vajolet towers (read about it here). It involves an hour climb with steel ropes you can grab for support (don't worry, it isn't as scary as it sounds) and at the top you can stay the night in a hut 2,700 metres above sea level. The sunset promises to be dramatic.
Show me where the Vajolet towers are on google maps
8. LHAVIYANI ATOLL MALDIVES
The Maldives is one of the only places in the world where you'll be guaranteed sunsets with unobstructed views of the sun every single night. Perch yourself somewhere on the beach and watch our giant fireball melt into the ocean surrounded by a feeling of complete tranquility and freedom.
Show me where Kuredu Resort, Maldives is on google maps
9. THE LAGOON IN RAROTONGA
Rarotonga is one of the friendliest countries in the world and the sunsets are magical from every viewpoint. But for some of the most incredible skies you'll ever see, head to 'Black Rock' and watch fishermen wade out for their evening catch. When the tide is low, the water in the lagoon sits almost completely still and the reflection of the sky becomes something so beautiful, you'll want the moment to last forever.
Show me where Black rock, Rarotonga is on google maps
10. VULCANO ITALY
Sitting off the coast of Sicily is an island called Vulcano. It is home to one of the most explosive volcanos in the world. It's an easy 2 hour climb to the crater where you'll find fumaroles (steam vents) everywhere. The walk along the crater ring as the sky changes from orange to pink to purple and then to a sparkling canvas of stars, will be one of the most beautiful things you will ever experience.
Show me where Vulcano is on google maps
11. LAZIO ITALY
Civita di Bagnoregio is an extraordinary town that looks like it's built on a bolder floating in the vast Italian countryside. It's relatively undiscovered, and you'll be able to watch an incredible sunset, sunrise or even moonrise from behind this fairytale fortress.
Show me where Civita di Bagnoregio is on google maps