10 of the World’s Most Fragrant Destinations
1. Scottish Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are renowned for their stunning natural landscapes, featuring mountains, lakes, waterfalls, and coastlines. In early spring, certain roads in the Highlands are blanketed with gorse flowers, filling the air with a honey-and-coconut fragrance. In 2023, National Geographic named the Scottish Highlands one of the “Best of the World” destinations.
2. Provence, France
Provence is particularly famous for its lavender farms, making it no surprise that this rural region of France is a top choice for travelers. Many visitors have shared that standing in a field of purple lavender, inhaling the floral scent, is an unforgettable experience.
3. Grasse, France
Grasse, located in southeastern France, is known as the “Perfume Capital of the World.” The town is home to some of France’s top perfumers. The most recognizable scents here include tuberose, jasmine, and iris. Grasse also inspired the famous novel and film “Perfume: The Story of a Murderer.”
4. Dubrovnik, Croatia
Walking through the streets of Dubrovnik’s Old Town, one of the Mediterranean’s most popular destinations, visitors are greeted by a sweet scent combining orange blossoms and jasmine. This fragrance actually comes from a shrub called cheesewood.
5. Banff, Canada
For those who prefer winter scents, Banff is the perfect destination. This ski resort town in Alberta “smells like Christmas” thanks to the pine trees that grow abundantly, their scent wafting through the air, creating a comforting atmosphere for visitors.
6. Seville, Spain
“Everything becomes more intense in Seville, where the city is filled with the scent of oranges,” remarked Max Goldfinch, a traveler to this Andalusian city. The best time to visit is in spring, when tens of thousands of bitter orange trees blossom throughout the city, filling the air with a rich fragrance.
7. Iowa, USA
Visitors to Iowa, a city in the central United States, often praise its scent of grains and fruit. Iowa is home to the world’s largest cereal production plant, producing well-known brands like Cap’n Crunch and Quaker Oats.
8. Zurich, Switzerland
Unlike the floral scents of other destinations, Zurich is famous for its chocolate aroma. Visitors have shared stories of walking near Lake Zurich and catching the scent of chocolate from the nearby Lindt Factory, home to the world’s tallest chocolate fountain at 9 meters (30 feet) tall.
9. Avery Island, USA
Located in Louisiana, Avery Island is a must-visit for fans of spicy food. It’s the home of the McIlhenny Company, makers of the world-famous Tabasco hot sauce. Visitors often remark that they can smell the Tabasco as soon as they step out of their cars.
10. Morocco
If you’re looking for a feast for the senses, Morocco is highly recommended. The local markets are filled with the scents of mint, orange blossoms, and almond cookies, creating a vibrant sensory experience.
