Top Five Unexpectedly Awesome Holiday Destinations

These destinations probably won't be on your to-do list. If you're after hidden gems and fantastic stories to tell your friends however, then look no further!

5. Siberia

It's often spoken of in less than complimentary terms - think barren wastelands and exile. But Siberia is actually a haven of natural beauty, and cinematic scenery. Visit when Lake Baikal freezes over and spend time with the indigenous Buryat people for an authentic experience.

4. Everest

Don't be alarmed - no one's asking you to hike up it! Everest is also home to some of the most beautiful scenery, while the colouring surrounding area is a pure gift for the imagination - time to get inspired!!

3. Eritrea

One of the hottest and driest places in the world, this overlooked destination is so much than its climate. Did you know that capital city Asmara contains an incredible selection of Art Deco, expressionist, futurist, cubist and neoclassical styles of architecture, hailing from its Italian colonial past? Take a walk through a Fellini movie!

2. North Korea

Via rasktravel.com

Its image has been all over the news, rather than the holiday snaps on you Facebook feed. Surprise your friends with your travel tales of your trip to North Korea - a holiday not without its complications, but well worth it! Independent travel is virtually impossible – tourists must be accompanied by two North Korean guides throughout their trip. A trip into the unknown...

1. A Tree

e-architect.co.uk / Via rasktravel.com

No, not the tree down your local park! We're talking actual 'treerooms' with contemporary design - tree houses with a difference! Sweden's Treehotel, within a forest by the Lule River, is a true escape from the daily grind – and who'd ever believe that you spent a week holed up in a tree – and enjoyed it??

All holidays available through RASK Travel