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The Lofoten islands lie off Norway's mainland above the Arctic Circle. This world famous archipelago is known for its dramatic scenery - mountains, fiords and quaint fishing villages. lovely beaches, the white tailed sea eagles and its stunning evening performances of the aurora borealis.
Canyonlands National Park, Utah.
Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah is known for its dramatic desert landscape carved by the Colorado River. Island in the Sky is a huge, flat-topped mesa with panoramic overlooks. Other notable areas include the towering rock pinnacles known as the Needles, the remote canyons of the Maze and the Native American rock paintings in Horseshoe Canyon.
For video, please visit youtu.be/EVdjErJKsYc
shot by KHWD
want to see more images and / or read blogs that accompany my photos here on Flickr, then you are in!
www.motorhome-travels.net/blog/tags/flickr
The Ceredigion coastline in Wales is renowned for its stunning and diverse rock formations. Here are some highlights:
Key Rock Formations
Ynys Lochtyn: A striking headland and island known for its dramatic cliffs and geological formations, accessible from Llangrannog.
Devil’s Bridge: Famous for its unique rock strata and the three stacked bridges, showcasing impressive geological layers.
Cliffs of Cardigan Bay: The coastline features high cliffs formed from ancient sedimentary rocks, creating breathtaking views and interesting geological formations.
Aberystwyth Cliff Railway: The cliffs here are notable for their rich history and the funicular railway that offers stunning views of the rock formations and the bay.
Geological History
Sedimentary Rocks: The area is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks like sandstone, shale, and mudstone, formed over millions of years.
Fossil Finds: The cliffs and rocks often reveal fossils, providing a glimpse into the ancient marine life that once inhabited the region.
Scenic Walks and Views
Coastal Path: Walking along the Ceredigion Coastal Path provides excellent opportunities to view and explore these rock formations up close.
Photography: The varied rock structures, combined with the coastal landscape, make for fantastic photographic subjects, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The Ceredigion coastline's rock formations are not only geologically significant but also incredibly beautiful, making them a must-see for visitors.
Canyonlands National Park, Utah.
Canyonlands National Park in southeastern Utah is known for its dramatic desert landscape carved by the Colorado River. Island in the Sky is a huge, flat-topped mesa with panoramic overlooks. Other notable areas include the towering rock pinnacles known as the Needles, the remote canyons of the Maze and the Native American rock paintings in Horseshoe Canyon.
For video, please visit youtu.be/EVdjErJKsYc
San Pedro de Atacama is a town set on an arid high plateau in the Andes mountains of northeastern Chile. Its dramatic surrouding landscape incorporates desert, salt flats, volcanoes, geysers and hot springs.
This valley showcases its dramatic side: ancient, rugged basalt cliffs cut by water so blue it looks painted. A breathtaking reminder of the power of nature.
Standing at the edge of the canyon, I was aiming to capture the sheer visual weight of this landscape. The river below—an intense, electric turquoise—is a vibrant ribbon of color against the dark, oxidized browns of the ancient volcanic rock. It’s a moment of powerful natural theater, where the colors of the Icelandic Highlands really pop.
Processed with VSCO with a5 preset
The filming of Poldark at Botallack Mine in Cornwall is notable for its stunning scenery and historical accuracy. Botallack, part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, provided a dramatic backdrop with its rugged cliffs and historic engine houses, representing the fictional Wheal Leisure and Grambler mines in the series.
Botallack is located on the north coast of Cornwall, known for its dramatic cliffs and rich mining history.
The area is rich in mining heritage, once central to Cornwall's tin and copper industries, making it an authentic choice for the series.
Breathtaking coastal landscapes and crashing waves contribute to the visual appeal, enhancing the drama and romance of the show.
Filming on location posed logistical challenges due to the remote and rugged terrain, but it added authenticity to the series.
Popularity of Poldark boosted tourism, with many fans visiting Botallack to experience the iconic filming locations.
The use of Botallack Mine helped bring the world of Poldark to life, adding depth and realism to the adaptation.
Travel Photography by KeefH Web Designs
shot by KHWD
want to see more images or read the blog?
www.holiday2013.co.uk/911feb2013tutukakacoast
Whangārei Harbour is a stunning tidal inlet on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, stretching inland from the Pacific Ocean to the heart of Whangārei city. Its Māori name, Whangārei-te-rerenga-parāoa, poetically means “the place where whales gather,” a nod to its rich marine history. The harbour is fed by several rivers, including the Hātea, and is known for its dramatic mudflats, mangroves, and deep channels that once supported coal shipping and now host a vibrant marina culture.
At the centre of this harbour is the Te Matau ā Pohe bridge, a striking bascule bridge inspired by traditional Māori fish hooks. It’s not just a feat of engineering—it’s a cultural landmark and a gateway to the Hātea Loop, a scenic walkway that winds through art installations, cafes, and community spaces.
Now, about those market tents on the bridge—you’re likely thinking of the lively pop-up markets that occasionally spring up around the Town Basin and near Te Matau ā Pohe. While the bridge itself isn’t a regular venue for markets, the surrounding area hosts seasonal markets featuring local crafts, food, and music, especially during the warmer months from September to April. These markets are a magnet for both locals and visitors, blending Whangārei’s creative spirit with its maritime charm.
If you're imagining a scene of colourful tents fluttering against the backdrop of the harbour, with the bridge lifting for passing yachts—you're not far off. It’s a place where art, culture, and coastal life converge beautifully.
Would you like a peek into the kinds of stalls or artists that usually show up there?
We did, and the waterfall just outside is a lovely walk and photographers dream
Strelitzia reginae is commonly known as the crane flower or bird of paradise is an evergreen perennial widely cultivated for its dramatic flowers.
Joseph Banks described the species in 1788. The specific epithet reginae means “of the queen”, and commemorates the British queen Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, wife of George III.[3] Common names such as “crane flower” and “bird of paradise” reference the open flower’s resemblance to the head and beak of a colourful exotic bird. Wikipedia
Every hour of every day, the relentless waves pound the rocks and boulders on the tip of the Schoodic Peninsula in Maine. Photographed at Schoodic Point, the crown jewel of the peninsula, which is known for its dramatic coastline and crashing surf. The granite ledges and rocky outcrops provide excellent vantage points for observing the powerful Atlantic Ocean waves.
Developed with Darktable 4.8.0.
Badlands National Park is in South Dakota. Its dramatic landscapes span layered rock formations, steep canyons and towering spires.
Nákladní vlak společnosti CN (Canadian National Railway) projíždí kanadským vnitrozemím podél řeky Athabasca na západ, pravděpodobně směrem k přístavu ve Vancouveru. Snímek pochází z malebného úseku mezi výhybnou Swan Landing (oblast Brulé) a městem Jasper v provincii Alberta.
V čele vlaku je nasazena dvojice lokomotiv – CN 5676, typ EMD SD75I, a CN 9411, typ GE C40-8W (v barvách leasingové společnosti GECX). První z nich byla vyrobena společností General Motors (EMD) a patří do série 175 kusů dodaných kanadským železnicím v letech 1996–1999. V posledních letech byly některé tyto stroje vyřazeny kvůli nehodám či technickým problémům, zatímco přibližně 50 lokomotiv prošlo v letech 2023–2024 modernizací na typ SD75IACC. Druhá lokomotiva pochází od General Electric a CN provozuje celkem 67 strojů tohoto typu, vyznačujících se vysokým výkonem a spolehlivostí v těžkých podmínkách kanadské železniční sítě.
Na pozadí snímku se kromě širokého toku řeky Athabasca rýsuje v dálce východní okraj Skalistých hor v oblasti národního parku Jasper. Masivní hřebeny zde dosahují výšek až 2600 metrů a tvoří poslední horskou překážku před přechodem tratě do rovinaté krajiny směrem k Edmontonu. Celá trasa patří mezi nejfotogeničtější části kanadské železniční sítě díky kombinaci divoké přírody, technické náročnosti a husté železniční dopravy.
EN
A freight train operated by CN (Canadian National Railway) is seen traveling west through the Canadian interior, running along the scenic Athabasca River—likely en route to the port of Vancouver. The photo was taken along the picturesque stretch between Swan Landing siding (near Brulé) and Jasper, Alberta.
Leading the train is a pair of locomotives: CN 5676, an EMD SD75I, and CN 9411, a GE C40-8W (leased from GECX). The first locomotive was manufactured by General Motors (EMD) and is one of 175 units delivered to CN between 1996 and 1999. Several of these units have since been retired due to mechanical failures or accidents, while about 50 were upgraded to the SD75IACC standard during a rebuilding program in 2023–2024. The second locomotive, built by General Electric, is one of 67 C40-8W units operated by CN, known for their reliability and performance in demanding terrain.
In the background, beyond the wide Athabasca River, the eastern edge of the Canadian Rockies rises within Jasper National Park. These rugged peaks, reaching elevations of up to 2,600 meters, mark the final mountainous barrier before the landscape flattens out toward Edmonton. This route is one of the most photogenic in the Canadian rail network, celebrated for its dramatic scenery, engineering feats, and heavy rail traffic.
Cape Cornwall is a headland located on the southwest tip of England, in West Cornwall, near the town of St Just. It's a popular spot for its dramatic coastal scenery and views of the Atlantic Ocean. The National Trust owns most of the headland, and it's part of the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site.
Valdez, Alaska, is largely defined by its dramatic glacial landscapes, deep-water fjords, and coastal rainforest. The environment is both stunningly beautiful and incredibly sensitive, as tragically demonstrated by the 1989 Exxon Valdez oil spill.
This imposing castle dominates de cityscape from atop its rocky perch. Located at the end of historic Royal Mile, its dramatic, medieval design remains largely the same unchanged since the 18th century.
Cet imposant château domine le paysage urbain du haut de son perchoir rocheux. Situé au bout de l'historique Royal Mile, son design médiéval dramatique reste en grande partie le même depuis le 18e siècle.
Big Sur is a rugged and mountainous section of California's Central Coast, reaching from Carmel Highlands to San Simeon. It is frequently praised for its dramatic scenery. The Santa Lucia Mountains provide a starkly beautiful background to equally beautiful coastal views.
Big Sur has been called the longest and most scenic stretch of undeveloped coastline in the contiguous United States, a sublime national treasure that demands extraordinary procedures to protect it from development. Many consider it to be one of the most beautiful coastlines anywhere in the world, an isolated stretch of road, mythic in reputation.
It is also subject to rock and mud slides, often closing segments of the road for many months. The past two years have been particularly hard on portions of Highway 1 due to strong storms and heavy rain. The road is closed from Lucia to Carmel. Hopefully it will be fully open in autumn 2024.
We were fortunate to be able to drive north from Cambria to visit a section of this coastline we had not previously driven. This spot is notable for the contrast of dark cliffs and rocks that comprise most of the coast with the white rock in the background, which has probably served as a resting site for cormorants, pelicans and other sea birds. There are several rocks like this along the coast -- they certainly stand out against the dark blue water.
Thanks for stopping by!
© Melissa Post 2024
Badlands National park its dramatic landscapes span layered Rock formations, streep canyons and tavering spires
Badlands are a type of dry terrain where softer sedimentary rocks and clay-rich soils have been extensively eroded.[1] They are characterized by steep slopes, minimal vegetation, lack of a substantial regolith, and high drainage density.[2] Ravines, gullies, buttes, hoodoos and other such geologic forms are common in badlands.
Badlands is een landschapsvorm, gekenmerkt door een sterk geërodeerde, uit klei bestaande ondergrond, voornamelijk in semi-woestijngebieden. Erosie door water en wind hebben tot gevolg dat in badlands geologische formaties als canyons, ravijnen en hoodoos veelvuldig voorkomen.
Kirkjufell, or ‘Church Mountain,’ is a strikingly shaped peak on the north coast of Iceland's Snaefellsnes peninsula, a short distance from the town of Grundarfjordur. It is often referred to as ‘Iceland's most photographed mountain’ due to its dramatic shape and perfect coastal location.
At 463 metres high, Kirkjufell is an impressive landmark. Over the centuries, Kirkjufell's distinctive slopes have served as a visual landmark for sailors and travellers. More recently, it has attracted both amateur and professional photographers.
Within walking distance of Kirkjufell lies the serene and perfectly situated Kirkjufellsfoss waterfall, or “Church Mountain Waterfall”, an excellent subject for photographers who can easily frame the mountain in the background.
Tåa and the Western Coast of Vestvågøy (lofoten Islands) 20250616
The small islet of Tåa lies off the western coast of Vestvågøy, one of the central islands of the Lofoten archipelago in Northern Norway. It sits in the narrow Tåsundet Strait, between the scenic beaches of Haukland and Vik, and just offshore from the towering cliffs of Veggen, a popular hiking destination.
This coastal area is known for its dramatic contrasts: White sandy beaches, turquoise Arctic waters and steep granite peaks rising directly from the sea. The "yttersida" (outer side) road , which connects Haukland and Uttakleiv, offers panoramic views over the open ocean and the rugged coastal landscape.
Though Tåa itself is uninhabited and small, it adds to the charm of this wild and windswept part of Lofoten - a favorite spot for photographers, cyclists and hikers seeking the essence of Norway's coastal wilderness.
The beautiful and now tranquil setting of Augustinian Lanercost Priory belies an often troubled history. Standing close to Hadrian's Wall, it suffered frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish wars, once by Robert Bruce in person. The mortally sick King Edward I rested here for five months in 1306-7, shortly before his death on his final campaign.
The east end of the 13th-century church survives to its full height, housing within its dramatic triple tier of arches some fine monuments.
More photos of Lanercost Priory here: www.flickr.com/photos/davidambridge/albums/72157624989399623
Valetta is the capital of the island nation of Malta. The country is famous for its dramatic cliffs, stunning landscapes, and ancient buildings. I especially enjoyed photographing the historic fortresses and defensive walls that surround Valetta. I captured this shot as the sun was rising and the fog was lifting.
With very little light left .... in the sky it was still an amazing experience. worth seeing and photographing
Phra Nang Beach, located in Krabi Province, Thailand, is one of the most stunning and famous beaches in the country, often praised for its dramatic limestone cliffs, soft white sand, and turquoise waters. It’s situated between Ao Nang and Railay Beach on the Railay Peninsula, and is only accessible by boat, usually from Ao Nang or Krabi Town.
Scenery & Sunsets: The backdrop of cliffs, sea stacks, and islands creates some of the most photogenic scenes in Thailand, especially during sunset.
Swimming & Kayaking: The beach has calm, clear waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling
All photos copyright 2015-2025 by Gerd Michael Kozik No further use of my photos in any form such as websites, print, commercial or private use. Do not use my photos without my permission !
Phi Phi Ley ist eine unbewohnte Insel im Süden Thailands, bekannt für ihre dramatischen Kalksteinfelsen, türkisfarbenen Buchten und spektakulären Klippen. Berühmt wurde sie durch die Maya Bay, die als Drehort für den Film The Beach weltweite Bekanntheit erlangte. Die Insel steht unter Naturschutz, ist nur tagsüber zugänglich und ideal für kurze Bootsausflüge, Schnorcheln und beeindruckende Drohnen-Aufnahmen bei Ebbe. Der Magnet zog auch meine Drohne an...;) Es war etwas windig über dem Meer.
Phi Phi Ley is an uninhabited island in southern Thailand, known for its dramatic limestone cliffs, turquoise bays, and stunning rock formations. It gained worldwide fame through Maya Bay, the iconic filming location of The Beach. The island is protected as part of a national park, accessible only during the day, and perfect for short boat trips, snorkeling, and breathtaking drone shots at low tide. The magnet also attracted my drone...;) It was a bit windy over the sea.
Thank you for your visit!
The High Desert of Southern California can, on rare occasions, reveal its dramatic winter colors.
Shot with an old lens, the Sigma Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8
I was really at the limit for my camera but this one was the only one that would let me anywhere near it. It was a dull day so went back 2 days later, blue skies & not one on the fence they were all on the ploughed field as it was a windy day.
That's wildlife photography eh 😉
RSPB info - This nondescript (a bit unfair I think) lowland farmland bird is the largest of the buntings and is most usually seen perched on a wire or post. It is a stout, dumpy bird brown which flies off with a fluttering flight and with its legs characteristically 'dangling'. Its dramatic population decline in the UK makes it a Red List species.
What they eat:
Seeds and insects.
Measurements:
Length:18cm
Wingspan:26-32cm
Weight:35-56g
The High Desert of Southern California can, on rare occasions, reveal its dramatic winter colors.
Shot with an old lens, the Sigma Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8
The Great Blue Heron [a wading bird] is the largest North American heron, with a head-to-tail length of between three and five feet, a wingspan of between 6-1/2 and 7-1/2 feet, and a weight of five to eight pounds. This magnificent creature is notable not only for its size, but also for its dramatic appearance. The deep blue and blue-gray of its flight plumage contrasts with its white feathers, and orange bill and wing patches. Once you've seen one of these sizable avians, you won't soon forget the encounter!
Bluebird Estates
Photographing the Picathartes was no mean feat. First there was the long drive from the Western Region right by the border with Ivory Coast where I was to Nyamibe in the Ashanti Region and then a gruelling 35 minute hike up a track into the forest reserve - a real fitness test with the steepness of the hill.
The nesting area of the birds are quite high in altitude hence the upward climb. We arrived at the spot with their mud nests visibly tucked on what was a massive rock. The nest is very similar to that of the swallows but larger. I was accompanied by representatives of the two communities that are in charge of the forest reserve where the birds nest. The instructions was to be silent and only use sign language once we were at the site. They had constructed a bench right by the nests which we all sat as we caught our breath and waited. The birds eventually arrived and they didn't care about us being there!
This was such a weird feeling it was as if the whole encounter was unreal. Firstly the bird looks like an inflatable, nothing I'd ever seen before and as I tried to wrap my mind around that I was also trying to comprehend why the birds weren't afraid of humans. There was also the challenge of shooting in the rainforest with low light. I opted for the mechanical shutter and played around with the shutter speed shooting wide open with auto iso.
Facts - The White-necked Rockfowl also known as Yellow-headed Picathartes (Picathartes gymnocephalus) is one of West Africa's most extraordinary and sought-after birds — a species that feels almost prehistoric in both appearance and behaviour. This bird's UCN classsification is vulnerable(VU).
Endemic to the Upper Guinean forests, this elusive bird inhabits remote rocky outcrops and dense primary rainforest, where it moves with a curious mix of hops, runs and short flights along the forest floor and boulder faces. Its striking bare yellow head, patterned with bold black markings, contrasts sharply with slate-grey plumage and long, powerful legs adapted for scrambling among rocks. Despite its dramatic appearance, the rockfowl is surprisingly quiet and secretive, often detected only by careful observation at traditional nesting sites.
These nests — mud cups attached to vertical cave walls or shaded rock overhangs — are constructed communally, with several pairs breeding in loose colonies. Breeding success depends heavily on undisturbed habitat and stable microclimates within these rocky shelters.
Yellow-headed Rockfowl feed primarily on insects, small invertebrates and occasionally small vertebrates, gleaned from leaf litter or captured in short bursts of movement. They often follow army ant swarms, taking advantage of prey flushed by the ants — behaviour reminiscent of certain antbirds despite their very different lineage.
Taxonomically unique, rockfowl belong to the family Picathartidae, a group with no close living relatives, contributing to their reputation as evolutionary relicts. Habitat loss and disturbance at nesting sites have made the species globally vulnerable, and responsible ecotourism plays an important role in supporting conservation efforts.
Encountering this bird in its natural environment is less like seeing a typical passerine and more like stepping briefly into another era — a reminder of how ancient and specialised the rainforest avifauna can be.
Khao Phing Kan, famously known as James Bond Island, is a striking limestone karst formation in Phang Nga Bay, Thailand. Towering cliffs, emerald waters, and lush greenery surround this magnificent island. Its dramatic landscape gained global fame from the 1974 James Bond film The Man with the Golden Gun.
A rugged wall of the Cimarron Ridge rises sharply against a partly cloudy sky, its dramatic rock formations forming a striking backdrop to the vibrant forest below. At the base of the cliffs, a lush mix of aspens glows in shades of green and brilliant gold, signaling the height of autumn. Pockets of sunlight break through the clouds and illuminate sections of the foliage, creating depth and warmth in the scene. A lone evergreen stands out among the aspens, adding contrast and anchoring the foreground. The overall composition captures the raw beauty of Colorado’s fall landscapes—bold, colorful, and naturally sculpted.
Cimarron Ridge can be seen by driving Owl Creek Pass near Ridgway, Colorado USA.
Mount Kirkjufell, also known as Church Mountain, is a distinctly shaped peak found on the north shore of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula. It is considered to be the most photographed mountain in Iceland due to its dramatic formation and perfect coastal location.
The soundtrack to this one is one of my all time favs in classic music. – I only feel the need to listen to it in winter when it is really cold and snowy and stormy outside because to me it sounds like a perfect “translation” of deep deep dark cold winter in all its dramatic beauty into music. And at the same time it includes this wonderful idea of spring at the end. If you find the time to listen to the link above this final part starts at 9’:12’’ – feels like a little butterfly enters the room and lightness comes back again. – Utterly beautiful and like a reminder that every winter, even the darkest one, follows a new spring, always.
My website: www.uma-wirth.com
Dating back to about 1150 AD, All Saint's Church in Saltfleetby Lincolnshire, UK is largely 12th Century Church is no longer used for worship. It is notable for its dramatically leaning tower.
Don't tell Elon Musk, but you don't have to fire off into space to visit Mars. Just get on a plane — or a bus — to the Middle Eastern country of Jordan.
Jordan is a small, dry, mostly landlocked country that neighbors Israel to the east. Within its rugged terrain is Wadi Rum, a desert valley known for its dramatic sandstone and granite rock faces and the reddish hue of its sand.
The landscape is so otherworldly that countless filmmakers have used the desert as a location for films taking place on distant planets.
Most recently, the desert served as the backdrop for Mars in the Matt Damon-starring space-survival film "The Martian."
But "The Martian" is far from the only film to use the desert. Wadi Rum played the part of Mars in the 2000 film "Red Planet" and the
2013 film "The Last Days on Mars." It played the part of the alien world in the 2012 horror film "Prometheus" and the planet of Jedha in "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story."
On a recent trip to Jordan, I decided to take a road trip through Wadi Rum. After barreling through the desert in jeeps, sprinting down sand dunes. I think I can say I've officially visited another planet.
Itsukushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima (popularly known as Miyajima), best known for its "floating" torii gate. It is in the city of Hatsukaichi in Hiroshima Prefecture in Japan. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Japanese government has designated several buildings and possessions as National Treasures.
The Itsukushima shrine is one of Japan's most popular tourist attractions. It is most famous for its dramatic gate, or torii on the outskirts of the shrine.
From Wikipedia
Second Beach is a scenic coastal area in Olympic National Park, Washington, located near the town of La Push. It is famous for its dramatic sea stacks and is reached via a short, 0.7-mile hike through a forest from the trailhead.
"Guilin at night" is today's theme. Guilin is a city in southern China known for its dramatic landscape of limestone karst hills. At its centre are 2 lakes, Shanhu (Cedar) and Ronghu (Banyan), remaining from a medieval-era moat that once surrounded the city. Boats travel through these and other lakes via connected rivers. On Shanhu Lake’s shore, twin pagodas, the Sun and Moon, light up the sky at night.
This shot of the Moon Pagoda was taken from an evening cruise boat on the lakes.
Google AI Overview
The image shows the scenic landscape of Kualoa Ranch on the island of Oahu, Hawaii.
Kualoa Ranch is a 4,000-acre private nature reserve and working cattle ranch located on the windward coast of O'ahu.
It is a popular visitor attraction known for its dramatic mountain cliffs and lush valleys.
The area has been a filming location for over 200 movies and TV shows, including the Jurassic Park franchise, Lost, and Jumanji.
The ranch was established in 1850 and has remained in the same family since.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kualoa_Ranch
We took an all-day photography tour with Oahu Photography Tour. It was a lot of fun. I recommend it highly.
Hawaii 2025
Oahu 2025
A view down Loch Duich to the five Sisters of Kintail on the far left, with the mountains of Glen Shiel in the distance. The Loch is situated on the western coast of Scotland, in the Scottish Highlands. The famous Eilean Donan Castle stands at the meeting point of Loch Duich, Loch Long, and Loch Alsh. Loch Duich itself is a stunning sea loch and is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and iconic landmarks. Surrounded by rugged hills and mountains.
This photo captures a small waterfall tumbling through rocky terrain near the Col de la Cayolle, nestled between the Alpes-de-Haute-Provence and Alpes-Maritimes. The landscape is rugged and mostly barren, with sparse alpine vegetation clinging to the slopes. Above, a partly cloudy sky stretches wide, its dramatic formations echoing the contours of the mountains. The water flows through a narrow crevice, adding movement to an otherwise still and mineral environment. Taken near the Mercantour National Park, this scene reflects the raw beauty of high-altitude wilderness — silent, sculptural, and untouched.
This is the Elvis Chapel at the Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum in Apache Junction.
www.pinal.gov/faq.aspx?TID=134
The Superstition Mountain area has long been of interest to filmmakers, with its dramatic views and romantic history. Movie stars such as Glenn Ford, Elvis Presley, John Wayne, and Tom Mix starred in films set in our area. Elvis Memorial Chapel is a movie prop that was built for the 1969 Elvis Presley western Charro!, which was the only movie Elvis made in which he did not sing, but played a strictly dramatic role. During the moving shoot, a specially-made steeple was constructed and put on the chapel so that it could be blown off during an explosion central to the movie's plot
www.mountaintripper.com/historic-buildings-arizona/the-el...
The Elvis Memorial Chapel is a movie prop from the 1969 Elvis Presley film “Charro!” that survived two fires and was relocated to the Superstition Mountain Museum where it stands to this day.
Originally part of the Apacheland Movie Ranch, it is the sole surviving structure from that iconic Western filming location.
Now serving as a wedding chapel, it stands as a testament to preservation efforts and a unique connection to Elvis’ only non-singing acting role.
www.visitarizona.com/directory/superstition-mountain-lost...
Discover Desert Riches at the Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum! Our 15-acre campus, nestled at the base of the Superstition Mountains, had trails, mining equipment, Apacheland Barn, the Elvis Chapel, large-scale model trains, Cossack stamp mill, and so much more! Our museum exhibits revisit the Arizona Territory, documenting early settlers, native culture, geology, flora and fauna, mining and smelting, and all you want to know about the Lost Dutchman and his mine. We have family-friendly special events, partnering with local businesses and charities, making out museum a truly community-centric organization.
infoarizona.com/superstition-mountain-museum/
The desert stretches before you—vast, golden, and silent except for the whisper of wind against stone. Towering peaks rise sharply from the earth, their rugged faces glowing in the Arizona sun, each contour etched with stories of fortune and fate. These are the Superstition Mountains, a landscape steeped in legend, where the line between myth and reality fades into the dust.
Tucked against this backdrop lies the Superstition Mountain Lost Dutchman Museum, a treasure trove of the region’s mysteries. Within its walls, echoes of prospectors, pioneers, and restless spirits come to life through artifacts, exhibits, and tales passed down through generations.
Founded in 1980 by the Superstition Mountain Historical Society, the museum was born from the dreams of “Dutch hunters”—enthusiasts obsessed with the legendary Lost Dutchman Mine. These folks weren’t just casual treasure seekers; they were dedicated to preserving the lore and artifacts of the region, turning their fascination into a cultural institution.
Happy Fence Friday, HFF,
Just a small wood in Emsworth, but part of the Wayfarer’s Walk which is a 70-mile, long-distance walking route.
The route will take you from its dramatic start, high on the chalk downs at Inkpen beacon to finish at Emsworth Harbour. You will walk over some of the finest chalk turf in Hampshire down to the mud flats and salt marshes along the coast, passing through these woods and down to the beach path which leads on to Emsworth millpond wall. Following this wall leads to the quay. The end of the walk.
Choose between high chalk downland with exhilarating views or chalk-stream valleys buzzing with wildlife, peaceful pubs in pretty villages or a busy market town. Or why not have a relaxing seaside picnic while watching the marsh wildlife.
The end of the Siq, with its dramatic view of Al Khazneh ("The Treasury").
Petra, Jordan, was not chosen to be the setting for "Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade" for nothing. Do you remember when, in the final part of the film, "Indy" and his father, lived by Sean Connery, cross a canyon on horseback and are surprised by a huge building carved in a mountain? Yeah, it was there. Nothing, however, that surprises: Petra, after all, is a haven for both archaeologists and tourists interested in fascinating stories.
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At the end of the canyon trek, in the midst of the sunshine, Petra's most famous façade: the Treasury. It's a breathtaking sight! Despite the name and grandeur of the place, the Treasury never housed a treasure. But the purpose of its construction has not yet been discovered. For some, it is a royal tomb. For others, a temple.
Many bullet marks can be seen at the top of the Treasury facade. The damage was done by thieves seeking a legendary treasure that would be hidden in the building. As they did not reach the top, they would shoot to destroy the sculptures and try to locate it. Also can be seen carved nymphs and other Roman figures, result of the domination of Petra by that empire after the fall of Nabateus. The interior of the building is closed to visitors.
The High Desert of Southern California can, on rare occasions, reveal its dramatic winter colors.
Shot with an old lens, the Sigma Zoom 28-70mm f/2.8
Staldzene – an old fishing village with some homesteads surviving from the 19th century, lies to the North of Ventspils on the way to the Kolka point. Here fishermen can still be seen going out to sea, and on calm evenings the scent of dry-cured Baltic plaice wafts through the air.
Staldzene is popular with both townsfolk and tourists alike for its walking paths, swimming beach and its dramatic steep coastline. Staldzene steep coast is the highest in Latvia.
It is a typical abrasive-type coastline 4 to 8 m high, where deposits of various stages of the Baltic Sea development are exposed for approximately 400 m.
As a result of the erosion of the sea, the steep coast is washed away. Based on marine coastline monitoring data, the annual deviation of the coast is estimated at 1 m, because of which the area of the natural monument is reduced and is currently about 6 ha. Therefore, this outcrop has a limited lifetime, reports the information source of the Specially protected nature territory of Ventspils City. Its height has also decreased in the last decade. In the 70s of the last century, the height of the steep coast reached 12 m. Washing away of the steep coast is determined by the combination of several factors, including specific meteorological conditions – wind speed and direction, air temperature, sea level height, currents, waves, ice formation, etc. The Ventspils Port Piers and the deep fairway channel still have a significant impact, which completely stops the natural movement of sediments past the port to the north.
Staldzene steep coastline contains protected habitats of European and Latvian importance: wooded seaside dunes, boreal forests, calcareous sand meadows and gray dunes covered with herbaceous plants. There are also 8 specially protected plant species in the territory of the nature monument. Some plants are found only in Ventspils and Pape area in Latvia.
www.visitventspils.com/en/activity/staldzene-steep-coastl...
The beautiful and now tranquil setting of Augustinian Lanercost Priory belies an often troubled history. Standing close to Hadrian's Wall, it suffered frequent attacks during the long Anglo-Scottish wars, once by Robert Bruce in person. The mortally sick King Edward I rested here for five months in 1306-7, shortly before his death on his final campaign.
The east end of the 13th-century church survives to its full height, housing within its dramatic triple tier of arches some fine monuments.
More photos of Lanercost Priory here: www.flickr.com/photos/davidambridge/albums/72157624989399623
Lofoten is an archipelago in Norway. Its known for its dramatic scenery, with peaks like the Svolværgeita pinnacle jutting up into the sky. Himmeltindan Mountain sits on Vestvågøya Island.
Eskdale is a stunning, quieter valley in the Lake District, known for its dramatic scenery where mountains meet the sea, Scafell Pike at its head,
A series of spectacular waterfalls cascading down the valley, creating many beautiful swimming holes with water ranging from emerald to turquoise.
Surfing on Amalfi Coast
Amalfi’s waterfront, lined with pastel-colored buildings, radiates a lively atmosphere. Marina Grande, a charming harbour, is dotted with cafés and seafood restaurants inviting you to savor the region’s culinary delights while enjoying panoramic sea views. The iconic Torre dello Ziro, a medieval watchtower, stands guard over the town and offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
Surfing on the Amalfi Coast is a relatively niche but enchanting experience, as the region is more famous for its dramatic cliffs, historic towns, and crystal-clear waters than for big waves. The coastline, stretching along southern Italy’s Sorrentine Peninsula, offers sporadic surf conditions—more suitable for longboarding or beginner to intermediate surfers, especially during autumn and winter when swells from the Mediterranean become more reliable.
The towns of Vietri sul Mare and Cetara occasionally see rideable waves when conditions align. Surfing here is less about chasing barrels and more about soaking in the unparalleled beauty: pastel-colored villages clinging to limestone cliffs, terraced vineyards, and the scent of lemon groves drifting on the sea breeze.
While not a global surf destination like Portugal or Bali, the Amalfi Coast offers a unique and soulful surfing experience—where the magic lies as much in the setting as in the surf.
Amalfi
© Knud Hald