Image of Uluru just after sunset, glowing red against the darkening sky

Planet Earth has been an endless source of inspiration for artists throughout history. Whether it’s soaring mountains or sugary beaches, the planet has no shortage of breathtaking vistas to stir the imagination – and you’ll find plenty of them on Luxury Gold’s bespoke journeys. From the plains of South Africa to the Australian Outback and the Swiss Alps, here are 12 magnificent landscapes that never fail to stir the imagination of landscape artists. 

When you explore these with Luxury Gold, you can even ask your Travel Concierge to arrange for you to do some art experiences while you’re immersed in these extraordinary landscapes. Whether through the lens of a camera or the bristles of a paintbrush, you can push your creativity and take your skills to new heights.

1. Canadian Rockies

Image of Lake Louise, two people in a two-man kayak crossing in the distance

The Canadian Rockies’ towering mountain ranges, glittering glacial lakes, and vast open prairies offer dramatic scenes for artists. With majestic peaks, draped with the purest white snow and surrounded by sapphire-blue waters, the vistas are a dream to capture on canvas.

Discover it on: Majesty of the Rockies

Read more: The Most Beautiful National Parks in Western Canada

2. South African savannah

Image of a giraffe wandering through long grass on the South African savannah

Golden grasslands dotted with the dark silhouettes of acacia trees, teeming with diverse wildlife… The South African savannah offers an unparalleled opportunity for exploration through art. As you gaze over the ancient grasslands stretching out under the blazing sun, you’ll discover a unique array of colors and textures to stir your creativity.

Discover it on: Spectacular South Africa

Read more: Private Game Drives and Five-Star Stays: How Luxury Gold Does Safari Differently

3. Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Aerial image of Ha Long Bay, with two fishing boats in the foreground, and the towering limestone formations rising up in the near distance

Vietnam has no shortage of beaches and bays to stir the imagination – and Ha Long Bay is the queen of creative inspiration. This mystical landscape is defined by its ancient limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters. As you sail through the bay, you’ll discover golden beaches, secret coves, natural caves, verdant jungle, and floating fishing villages. The ever-changing light conditions make a dreamy subject for landscape artists. 

Discover it on: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

Read more: See Vietnam in Style With These Three Exclusive Cruise Experiences

4. Australian Outback

Image of Uluru just after sunset, glowing red against the darkening sky

Australia’s Red Center is a vast wilderness with a striking color palette. The stark contrast between the rich red soil, the vibrant blue skies, and the sparse greenery creates a captivating scene. You’ll also be inspired by iconic landmarks such as the rock monolith Uluru and the bewitching domes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. 

Discover it on: Inspiring Australia 

Read more: The irresistible lure of Uluru, Australia’s spiritual hub

5. Vineyards and lavender fields of Provence, France

The colorful landscapes of Provence. A field of lavender slopes

With symmetrical rows of lush grapevines and bright purple lavender stretching out over the rolling green hills, it’s no wonder Provence has inspired landscape artists for centuries. The beautiful landscapes are punctuated with rustic farmhouses and elegant castles, perfect for artists seeking to blend natural and man-made elements in their work.

Discover it on: Ultimate Southern France

Read more: Destination France: Live Your Parisien or Provencal Dream

6. Peruvian Andes

View of the Peruvian Andes, seen from near Cusco. In the foreground, golden rolling field of grass. In the distance, the dark snow-capped body of the Andes rising up through clouds

The Andes are one of Mother Nature’s greatest wonders, and they’re sure to inspire your best work too when you see them in all their glory. In Peru, the Andes are marked by snow-capped mountains and valleys lined with glittering lakes. It’s also where you’ll find ancient Incan ruins, including the iconic Macchu Picchu. From the ever-changing cloud formations to the furry llamas you’ll meet along the way, the Peruvian Andes are awe-inspiring to all. 

Discover it on: Treasures of the Incas

Read more: Embrace the spirituality of the Incas in Peru’s Sacred Valley

7. Cherry blossoms in Japan

View of Mt. Fuji, seen through cherry blossom branches

Every year from March to May, Japan explodes in a sea of pink and white cherry blossoms. You’ll see the blooms in dreamy settings everywhere, from ancient castles and temples to ornate Japanese gardens, and taking part in the “hanami” (flower viewing) tradition is a sure way to stir your artistic side. While the cherry blossoms make for an enchanting landscape, they also hold great cultural symbolism. As the flowers all bloom together at the top of trees and then suddenly disappear each season, the blossoms represent the fleeting nature of life and the beauty and mortality of life. 

Discover it on: Majestic Japan

Read more: Guardians of a national icon: meet the Japanese cherry blossom doctors

8. Swiss Alps

View of an alpine meadow in the Swiss Alps, with a lake in the foreground, and traditional wooden houses dotting the green meadow in the middle ground. In the background, snow-covered peaks

The Swiss Alps is one of the most sought-after destinations for landscape artists and for good reason. The region provides a stunning mix of snow-covered peaks, turquoise lakes, waterfalls and lush, green valleys. The contrast between the rugged mountain ranges, and the delicate alpine meadows and fairytale villages, offers artists a range of creative possibilities.

Discover it on: Majestic Switzerland

Read more: 5 incredible photographs to take from Switzerland’s Glacier Express

9. Rio de Janeiro

 

View of Rio de Janeiro at sunset, looking across the city's mountainous landscape, with the Christ the Redeemer statue in the middle ground

If you like diversity in your landscape artwork, be sure to visit Rio de Janeiro. Here you have it all, from golden beaches to soaring mountains and lush jungles. You can find a new perspective every day, starting with the iconic sand and surf of Ipanema Beach and Copacabana Beach. Then ride the cable car up the mountains for unparalleled views over the city’s bays, beaches and Sugarloaf Mountain. With unique landmarks like the statue of Christ the Redeemer marking the skyline, you’re spoiled for artistic choice in Rio. 

Discover it on: Classic South America

Read more: Sun, Sand and Sequins: Why Summer is the Best Time to Visit These Glamorous Coastal Cities

10. Fiordland, New Zealand

Looking across the clear waters of Gun Lake in Fiordland National Park

New Zealand’s Fiordland is where dramatic cliffs and towering Alps meet cascading waterfalls, moody clouds, and dense rainforests. It’s also where you can cruise the Milford Sound, where serene waters are surrounded by cliffsides dripping in waterfalls and forest. With such an overwhelming scale of natural beauty, this is a landscape artist’s paradise.

Discover it on: The Long White Cloud

Read more: The ultimate nature retreat: welcome to Milford Sound Lodge

11. Great Barrier Reef, Australia

 

Aerialview of the heart-shaped coral reef in the Whitsundays, part of the Great Barrier Reef

Diving under the ocean opens up a whole new world of artistic inspiration and the Great Barrier Reef is one of the best places to do it. You’ll first marvel at the white sandy beaches and crystal blue waters above the water, but once you dive below the surface, you’ll discover an oasis of vibrant coral and extraordinary marine life. If you’ve got a keen eye for detail and colour, and love to work with unique lighting and watery landscapes, the Great Barrier Reef is perfect.

Discover it on: Inspiring Australia

Read more: Most Breathtaking Beaches in the World

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