Spirits from these lakes are said to produce the local weather and odd phenomena as they bicker between themselves.

A 30-acre garden inspired by the principles of modern physics.

This eccentrically decorated palace is replete with grottoes, fountains, tunnels, and caves.

A swing to dangle you off the very edge.

Natural time capsule containing an alien ecosystem.

This niche museum devoted to ancient religious artifacts is shaped like the very thing it displays.

An enormous dragon scales the walls of this 17-story temple.

The menacing creature had a tremendous influence on the local culture before being exposed as a hoax.

One of the best-preserved Roman amphitheaters is still used today, but for less brutal events.

Standing in a state of "arrested decay," this ghost town allows for a detailed peek into Gold Rush life in an unusually harsh climate.

The hidden "ballroom" under a mansion lake was built by a criminal who ate a cyanide pill during his trial.

A star-shaped fortress town fort built in the geometric model of the Renaissance utopian city.

San Francisco Bay's ghost town.

Giant origami sculptures tucked into desert scenery beckon passers-by to explore further.

This modern labyrinth lies in the shadow of a ruined medieval castle.

This ancient temple is set up to take you on a pilgrimage of self.

Saved by a logger, this Douglas fir is one of the last great old-growth trees in Canada.

This isolated structure beckons adventurers with sublime views of the Faroe Islands.

Two ancient Buddhist temples crown this dramatic rocky pinnacle.

Isolated atop this Balinese sea crag is a lovely Hindu temple that is said to be guarded by sea snakes.

A "simple-hearted artist" turned an isolated Icelandic valley into his own art museum.

A solitary tree has grown up all alone on Lake Wānaka, backdropped by the beautiful Southern Alps.

Life in this isolated, hilltop lighthouse was lonely, but it sure was lovely.

A submerged archeological park still holds the wonders of a Roman Sodom.