Chasing Waterfalls, Lakes And Lagoons: Here Are 9 Of Europes Most Stunning Bodies Of Water

Lake Bled and Como make the list of course, but there are many secret springs and rivers to discover too.

If the start of summer has got you craving a lush body of water to cool off in, there are countless kinds to discover.

Europe is home to a rich and intricate network of rivers, lakes, waterfalls and natural pools, from the spectacular to the calmly trickling.

So many holidays, experiences and tourism hotspots are based around water, as we look to splash around - or just enjoy the serenity of its liquid movement.

With the continent’s water resources threatened by climate change, it pays to have an even closer appreciation of the health and life within our precious waterways.

In celebration of the life-sustaining element, we’ve compiled a list of the nine best natural water spots in Europe.

Secret Lagoon, Iceland

The Secret Lagoon was first used as a water source in 1891 and is the oldest lagoon in Iceland. All the sulphur-rich thermal water is provided by a nearby geyser which spurts every few minutes.

Tara River, Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina

Passing through Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina, the Tara River cuts through mountains and the Tara River Canyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the deepest canyon in Europe. The river is home to an abundance of wildlife and is popular with white water rafters.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Found in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled is of glacial origin and is a favourite with honeymooners drawn by the romantic setting.

Cachat Spring, France

The reason that Evian water is globally famous is the Cachat spring - formerly known as the Saint Catherine Fountain - which runs all year round. It is said to have cured the kidney stones of Count Jean-Charles de Liazer, an aristocrat fleeing the French Revolution.

Inland Beach in Bornos, Spain

A special protection area for birds, the Bornos Reservoir is also well known for the yearly Lake Festival. This natural pool in Andalusia has clear waters that are perfect for swimming and fishing.

Valsan River, Romania

The Valsan River in Romania is home to a ‘living fossil’. The asprete is a fish that has been around for millions of years and can only be found on a 1 kilometre stretch of this river, as hydroelectric dams and other environmental impacts have eradicated it from elsewhere.

Mardalsfossen, Norway

At 705 metres high, Mardalsfossen is one of the highest waterfalls in Europe and could power the whole of Norway. Surrounded by stunning scenery, the two-tiered waterfall cascades into a hanging lake.

Lake Como, Italy

In the foothills of the Alps, Lake Como is an ideal holiday destination and hosts many resorts. The third biggest of Italy's great lakes, Como is a staggering 425 metres deep, making it one of the deepest lakes in Europe.

Caragh River, Ireland

One of the top salmon-catching spots in Ireland, the Caragh River flows through Country Kerry in Ireland’s south west. The river falls under the category of a Special Area of Conservation along with nearby Killarney National Park - and is home to the rare Kerry Slug.

Have we missed out any of your favourite lakes, rivers or maybe even a small stream? Let us know over on Instagram.

RECENT NEWS

Upper Age Limits For Clubs Are Common In South Korea. Now Japan Is Following Suit

The chain claims it merely wants its patrons’ preferences to match its boisterous atmosphere, but the move has sparked... Read more

From Berlin To Tenerife: All The Destinations Ryanair Wont Fly To Anymore In 2026

Ryanair has added another French airport to its list of route cuts for 2026, citing aviation taxes. Read more

Want To Book A Bargain Holiday? Try Skyscanners New Cheapest Destination Planner

Travellers can select the month of travel and the new tool will show the best-value destinations by average flight price... Read more

Residents Have Reached Breaking Point: Italian Valley Restricts Access To Famed Photo Spot

It comes after residents expressed frustration over traffic and tourists clogging up the town’s parking places and tre... Read more

Fitur 2026: Innovation, Sustainability And A Tribute To The Adamuz Accident Victims

Fitur 2026 brought together more than 10,000 travel companies from 161 countries in Madrid. Read more

Whirling Dervishes, Sand-covered Elephants And Sukhothai At Dawn: 2025s Best Travel Photos Revealed

After more than 20,000 entries, a panel of international experts has selected the best images in the world of travel pho... Read more