With their shimmering waters and riveting reflections, lakes bring a number of the foremost spectacular sights on earth. Whether they are bordered by towering mountain ranges, overgrown forests, or arid and desolate deserts, there's always something magical about seeing a lake's surroundings mirrored in its waters. Add in the mesmerizing shades, gleaming surfaces, as well as bright blue skies above, and it’s easy to see why they are so sought after. Here’s a look at the most beautiful lakes in the world:

1. Lake Kawaguchi:

        With the iconic snow-covered cone of Mount Fuji reflected in its waters, it’s fair to say that Lake Kawaguchi is blessed with one of the most phenomenal and famous views in Japan. Due to its marvelous scenery, the lake has long attracted visitors to its shores. One of the Fuji Five Lakes, Kawaguchi is also noted for its relaxing hot springs and beautiful cherry blossoms that hug the lakeshore. Immortalized in Hokusai's gorgeous woodblock prints, Lake Kawaguchi with Mount Fuji in the background has long been a photographer’s dream.

2. Lake Tahoe:

         Straddling the states of California and Nevada, Lake Tahoe is the largest alpine lake in the whole of North America. Formed over two million years ago, the crystal-clear waters of the lake lie in the Sierra Nevada, with majestic mountains and forests all around it. With skiing and snowboarding to be enjoyed in the winter and hiking and water sports in the summer, there is a myriad of incredible recreational opportunities on offer. In addition, there are lakeside casinos, flashy hotels and ski resorts for visitors to stay at.

3. Lake Como: 

        Lying in the north of Italy, Lake Como has been a favorite haunt of the rich and famous ever since Roman times. Surrounded by forest-clad hills and towering mountains, its gorgeous setting and sun-kissed shores make it perfect for rest and relaxation. Lining its dark blue waters are elegant lakeshore villas and palaces, with picturesque towns and villages dotted here and there. Add in all the marvelous food on offer, celebrity spotting in Bellagio, and hiking in the mountains, and it is easy to see why it’s such a popular destination.

4. Moraine Lake: 

        Hidden in the delightfully named Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake in Banff National Park makes for an unforgettable sight. Renowned around the world for its unique shade of azure blue waters, the glacial lake stands out magically against the snow-capped peaks of the Canadian Rocky Mountains all around it. As well as being one of Canada's most iconic natural sights, Moraine Lake is also one of the most famous and beautiful lakes in the world. While paddling around its tranquil water is a wonderful way to take in the arresting scenery, hiking up to one of the numerous viewpoints is equally rewarding.

5. Lake Pichola:

         With elegant palaces, marble temples, and magnificent mansions strung along its shores, Lake Pichola in the Indian state of Rajasthan makes for an enchanting sight. Despite its natural appearance, the lake is actually human-made and was built in the heart of Udaipur all the way back in 1362. Over the centuries, the sumptuous City Palace was built along its banks, while the lovely Lake Garden Palace was erected on one of its islands. The real show-stopper, however, are the blindingly bright white walls of Lake Palace, which are mesmerizingly reflected in the waters of the lake.

6. Inle Lake: 

        Nestled amongst the scenic Shan Hills, Inle Lake is vast and serene lake in the middle of Myanmar. Besides being bordered by centuries-old monasteries and temples, the lake also sports a number of sleepy fishermen's villages, which are picturesquely set upon bamboo stilts. Now a popular tourist destination, these lakeside communities and their floating markets proudly exhibit Myanmar's rich culture. The second-largest lake in the country, Inle Lake is home to lots of delightful scenery. A wonderful way to see its many sights isto take a boat trip around its tranquil waters.

7. Lake Baikal: 

        The deepest and oldest lake on Earth, Lake Baikal is reputed to boast some of the clearest and cleanest waters around. To top it all off, the enormous freshwater lake contains more water than all the Great Lakes in North America combined. With so many accolades to its name, it’s no wonder that Lake Baikal is nicknamed the 'Pearl of Siberia.' While the lake makes for fabulous viewing when the summer sun glints off its dark waters, it is no less impressive in winter when it freezes up two meters deep in parts. Whether it’s ice skating across the surface or hiking along the scenic shoreline, Lake Baikal is a nature lover's dream.

8. Lake Wakatipu.

         Located in the South Island of New Zealand, Lake Wakatipu is renowned for its spectacular setting, with rugged mountains surrounding it. Of these, the fittingly named Remarkable mountain range is undoubtedly the pick of the lot. Tucked away along the glacial lake's scenic shorelines is the adventure capital of Queenstown. From here, visitors can arrange to go hiking, paragliding, and white-water rafting amongst the beautiful nature that surrounds Lake Wakatipu. For an unforgettable view of the gorgeous lake, adrenaline junkies can go sky-diving above its sparkling waters.