All lakes provide a stunning and awe-inspiring picturesque backdrop. And some are more fascinating than others.

Static bodies of water, enclosed by land on all the other sides, and always located on the land surface, lakes, believe it or not, can be impermanent in nature. In all, there are more than 117 million lakes on Earth. Let's take a look at some of the most beautiful lakes in the world.

Crater Lake, Oregon

Formed after Mount Mazama erupted more than six thousand years ago, to leave a cavernous caldera, it's America's deepest lake. One can enjoy breakfasts at Crater Lake Lodge, located at one end, with the clear blue waters turning you into putty. There's also an option to find yourself on a ranger-led boat tour to explore the geology of the park.

Dead Sea, Jordan

Easily, the saltiest naturally created a pool of water; it's also one of the most stunning. However, it is contracting at an astonishing rate. The sole feeder of the Jordan River, its ecological important cannot be stressed enough. Naturally, there's a scramble to experience the cobalt-blue waters.

Lake Como, Italy

A regular haunt with today's biggest celebrities, the beauty of the lake is not limited to the water surface and its immediate surroundings.

A little walkabout the adjoining town will reveal sprawling villas and romantic promenades, effectively combining the enigma of the ancient with the convenience of the modern. One can cruise the lake on a hired boat, enviably eyeing the marinas harbouring pleasure yachts and fast boats. La dolce vita!

Laguna Colorada, Bolivia

Firstly, the lake-water is red and hence its nickname, 'the red lagoon'. If that's not enough to go gooey, you'll invariably find pink-hued flamingos crowding the scene with good measure. The flamingos glow with a pinkish shade because they exclusively feed on the lake"s algae that make up its ecosystem.

It's also the algae that impart its colour to the water body. The distinct rusty mien of the shallow water, also, is often disputed by the pools of white on the surface as a result of borax deposits.

Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand

It's a tough ask whether you want to first soak in the scene or try out bungee jumping, or vice versa. The lake is surrounded by imposing mountains in all sides, the most notable one being the snow-capped Remarkables range. This can also name the edge of this lake your vacation stay.

But why did we mention bungee jumping? As its the birthplace. Besides that, one can give into sky-diving, whitewater rafting, paragliding, and hiking here at Queenstown, the town in the South Island.