Silver in the hills led to the speedy creation of this boom town and a lack of it saw the town abandoned nearly as quickly.

Once an unstoppable source of gold and silver, this town came to a grinding stop when the groundwater proved deadly.

Known as the most scenic route in Sri Lanka, this train line is steeped in history and offers an unparalleled view of the country.

Pettah's beautiful floating market was once a stinky canal in a sketchy industrial area.

One of the few places where inexperienced snorkelers can spot a shark.

Huge herds of Asian elephants can be seen walking, bathing, and just chilling at this Sri Lankan park.

An ancient stone fortress considered by many to be the eighth wonder of the world.

This cave was the former seat of power for two brothers who ruled together as kings.

Indigenous cultures believed all life would end if this enormous rock toppled.

Marvel at this massive waterspout fueled by the incoming tide.

Originally planted by the ancient Carthaginians, this sprawling palm grove is one of the largest in the world.

Head to the mountains to catch a glimpse of Spain's endangered subspecies of brown bear.

Tour the inside of a massive lava tube formed during a 1949 volcanic eruption.

The walls of these four caverns are filled with art that dates back to the earliest human presence in Europe.

A spectacular walk on the flank of a gorge.

Locals use these rock pools and waterfalls for swimming and cliff diving.

One of Europe's largest groups of dolmens remains largely off the typical tourist track.

This Canary island is a quintessential example of nature’s beauty, and its unbridled fury.

Walls of stone rise up from sinkholes caused by underwater erosion.

This enchanting green space houses a labyrinth lined with toxic plants.

Two large eyes painted anonymously on a mountain overlooking the city pay homage to an old legend.

A fiery-red region of scooped out land still largely untouched by civilization, tourists or otherwise.

This panoramic lift provides a futuristic ride up San Pedro Mountain.

A daily pyrotechnic celebration marks a beloved tradition during Valencia's festival season.