7 Must see amazingly picturesque mountain towns

Be inspired by these seven amazingly picturesque mountain towns that you should be adding to your bucket list right now!

1. Bellagio

Not just famous for George Clooney’s hideaway holiday villa! This beautiful little village is located on Lake Como in Italy, with the magnificent Alps in the background. Considered the pearl of Lake Como, it sits on the tip of the lake, where it intersects into three to offer panoramic views of the lake and mountains.  The village has picturesque cobblestone streets with shops and restaurants overlooking the lake. When you have had a bite to eat take a stroll around the Villa Melzi and it’s beautiful gardens and sculptures. There are lot’s of walking paths or even a nice stroll along the promenade and you never know, you may just bump into Mr Clooney himself!

 2. Mostar

The historic town of Mostar is located in a deep valley of the Neretva River in Bosnia and Herzegovina. It’s famous for it’s bridge “Stari Most” which is the heart and soul of Mostar. During the summer months Mostar is a popular tourist destination and can be quite crowded especially around the bridge area. The original bridge was destroyed in the 1990s but has been restored and rebuilt in accordance with UNESCO, due to it’s cultural significance. A popular attraction with the tourists is watching the locals (for a fee) jump from the bridge. So grab yourself an ice-cream and sit by the bridge and watch the spectacle! If that doesn’t interest you then a walk around the old town with it’s beautiful worn cobblestone streets and lining either side of the bridge are cafes, bars and shops.

3. Bled

Bled is located on Lake Bled in Slovenia, with the magnificent Julian Alps in the background. One of the most beautiful alpine resorts in the world, it is full of natural beauty.  During the winter months the snow capped mountains create a magical atmosphere and the scene is a photographers dream. In the middle of the lake is a view of the church steeple, which is built on rock, a wonderful place to photograph with the mountains in the background. The town is also known for it’s thermal springs and popular trekking area.

4. Lake Louise

The absolutely stunning Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada is a sight to behold. The turquoise waters, hiking trails and in winter skiing and snowboarding is what draws the tourists into this beauty. At the bottom of the mountain is Fairmont Chateau offering stunning views and if you get the opportunity drop in for a drink or in winter a hot chocolate to warm up whilst admiring the views.

5. Lucerne

Located in the Swiss alps is this well preserved medieval town. The old town is mostly a pedestrian thoroughfare and the main attraction that crosses the Reuss River is the old covered Chapel bridge dating back to the 1300s. Wandering around this pretty town is like stepping back in time with lot’s of interesting architecture, ancient painted facades and the much photographed water tower. Sit in one of the many Alfresco restaurants that line the river and watch the world go by.  Lucerne is a great base to explore the mountain region with a ferry going directly to Mount Pilatus.

6. Hallstatt

An unbelievably picturesque village located at the base of the Hallstatt Mountains. Hallstatt is a UNESCO world heritage site and has a population of under 1000 people.  A quiet area that may have you feeling like you are walking in a fairytale – with old enchanting buildings, winding lanes and steps. Hallstatt is yet to be overrun or spoiled by commercial tourist shops which is a nice change for a popular place to visit. Take a boat ride out on the lake for a nice way to spend an hour admiring the scenery.

7. Chamonix

Host to the 1924 winter olympics and where the James Bond film “The world is not enough” was filmed this village is situated at the base of Western Europe’s tallest mountain – Mont Blanc. If you are a serious skier then this is the place for you! Steep slopes and extreme weather conditions will test your skill level, equally as popular in the summer months is hiking. One amazing thing you can do here is take a ride on the Aiguille du Midi cable car that takes you up vertically 2743 metres, not for the faint hearted but it will give you some amazing views. The township itself is very attractive with many buildings retaining their old world charm.