3Lake Lucerne, Switzerland

Not all turquoise waters are found by the sea — some of Europe’s clearest can be discovered in the heart of the Alps. Lake Lucerne shimmers with glacial blues and greens, surrounded by snowcapped peaks and storybook villages.

Thanks to Switzerland’s meticulous environmental standards, the water is so clean you can see several meters down. Take a scenic boat ride or swim in the lake’s calm bays during summer for a refreshing alpine escape that feels both wild and pristine.

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