Travel guide, Rough Guides asked their readers to rank the most beautiful countries of the world. Here are the 15 most beautiful countries voted by the readers.
15. Switzerland
Considered to be one of the most beautiful countries in the world, Switzerland's mountainous landscape, snowy ski runs, and hiking trails help it to the 15th spot on the list.
14. Finland
According to one Rough Guides reader, "the skies, the forests, the mysticism, and just about everything else" earned Finland 14th spot on the list of the most beautiful countries in the world. That sums it up very well.
13. India
Ranked 13th, our very own country too has made it to the list. To say that India is best known for its culture, heritage, enthralling landscape and natural beauty would be a very myopic view of the country. India is an experience of a lifetime.
12. Mexico
Mexico has it all- breathtaking sites, natural beauty and deeply enchanting culture. All of these elements helped Mexico bag the 12th spot.
11. Slovenia
This small European country has an endless number of historical and cultural sites that makes this place a must visit for the tourists. Its mountains, forests, lakes, seashore, old towns, friendly people, and great food are only some of the elements that make Slovenia special.
10. Wales
According to voters, Wales should be visited for its beautiful castles, mountains and forests. Say hello to the tenth most beautiful country in the world.
9. USA
Each state's varying and characteristic beauty earned US the ninth spot on the list. Hawaii's vertical Na'Pali Coast, Denali National Park in Alaska, Yosemite and Grand Canyon National Park are only some of the highlights of USA. Wait till you stumble upon its hidden gems.
8. Iceland
Volcanic mountains, black sand beaches, and numerous natural hot springs helped Iceland to take the eighth spot on the list. The only surprising thing about this ranking is that it is not eight spots higher.
7. England
England bags the seventh spot, thanks to its stunning coastlines and historic sites. From the majestic hills of the Lake District to the blissful shores of Cornwall, England's beauty is to die for.
6. Indonesia
This Southeast Asian nation is gifted with rainforests, inland volcanoes, breathtaking islands, and a rich heritage. Indonesia will make you feel at home with its warmth.
5. South Africa
The only African country to feature on this list, South Africa's beauty knows no bounds. With its lush green mountains and sprawling beaches to its unparalleled wildlife, South Africa is sure to make you fall in love with the country.
4. Italy
Culture, community, history, romance, natural beauty and pizza! You will find everything in this European nation. It is voted the fourth most beautiful country in the world.
3. New Zealand
What comes to mind when one says rolling mountains, fiords, islands and plain beautiful roads? No point for guessing - New Zealand. This beautiful country is ranked third on the list.
2. Canada
Canada: America's uber-friendly neighbor and home of the maple syrup and snowy peaks. However this country has much more to offer such as the breathtaking Niagara Falls, the lake-filled Banff National Park in the Rocky Mountains, and its mesmerizing landscape. It is no surprise that Canada ranks so high up on the list.
1. Scotland
And finally, the most beautiful country according to the readers of Rough Guides is none other than Scotland. With its rugged castles, deep lochs, the Scottish countryside, and breathtaking islands, there is no surprise that the home of the Loch Ness monster has been voted the most beautiful country in the world.
