Phone Wallpaper - Bing Wallpaper Gallery

Dec 27, 2024Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled in Slovenia gets plenty of attention in summer, but winter? That"s when things slow down in the best way. The lake"s emerald waters take on a softer tone, and Bled Island, with its quaint church, looks straight out of a winter fairytale, as seen in today"s image. This over 2-kilometre lake, surrounded by the snow-dusted Julian Alps, was formed over 14,000 years ago through glacial and tectonic activity. The first signs of settlement on Bled Island date back to the New Stone Age (10,000 BCE to 3,000 BCE). Additionally, archaeologists uncovered an Early Medieval graveyard here from the 9th century CE. Today, it houses the Church of the Assumption—built in its current form near the end of the 17th century—where visitors ring the "wishing bell" for good luck.Desktop Version

Dec 26, 2024Christmas lights at Mousehole harbour, Cornwall, England

As the last notes of Christmas carols still linger in the air, let"s visit the harbour of Mousehole, a fishing village in Cornwall, England, to keep the merriment going. Featured in today"s image, Mousehole harbour is known for its Christmas illuminations. The Mousehole lights were first lit in the early 1960s, thanks to local artist Joan Gillchrest. A few humble strings of lights soon turned into a full-blown spectacle, growing over the years to include iconic scenes, nautical motifs and Cornish themes. Today, the lights, switched on from December until early January, span the entire harbour, wrapping buildings, boats and even the water"s edge in a soft glow.Desktop Version

Dec 25, 2024Lakes of Covadonga, Asturias, Spain

The dazzling Lakes of Covadonga, nestled in the heart of the towering Picos de Europa mountain range in Asturias, northern Spain, is an iconic tourist destination, particularly captivating in winter. The sight of these lakes draped in a blanket of snow and surrounded by majestic mountains creates a breathtaking natural spectacle that fascinates and attracts visitors from all over. In addition to their stunning beauty, the lakes hold deep historical significance. Nearby lies the emblematic Cave of Covadonga, the site of the renowned Battle of 722, a milestone in the Reconquista. This corner of Asturias is the perfect place to immerse yourself in both nature and history.Desktop Version

Dec 24, 2024Half-timbered Houses of Freudenberg, Germany

Freudenberg is a charming little town nestled in the Siegen-Wittgenstein district of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. The town lies in the beautiful hilly uplands, ranging from 243 to 505 metres above sea level. The town is made up of 17 communities spread across about 55 square kilometres, two-thirds of which is lush forest, mainly broadleaf and spruce trees. The heart of Freudenberg is the "Alter Flecken," the historic old town centre, entirely made up of half-timbered houses that give it the feel of a 17th-century town.Desktop Version

Dec 23, 2024Two red-crowned cranes in Kushiro, Hokkaido, Japan

Presenting one of the rarest cranes in the world: the red-crowned crane. Featured in today"s image, this bird enchants with its beauty and cultural significance. Also known as the Manchurian crane, it is celebrated as a symbol of luck, longevity and loyalty. These cranes are true foodies with a taste for variety! While their diet hasn"t been fully explored, we know they munch on everything from rice, carrots and acorns to water plants like reeds. They also enjoy a meaty menu of fish (carp and goldfish are favourites), amphibians, insects and even small reptiles, birds and rodents.Desktop Version

Dec 22, 2024Crystal Pier, San Diego, California, United States

Welcome to a timeless spot that has long captivated visitors to San Diego"s Pacific Beach: Crystal Pier. Stretching out over 260 metres into the water, the family-owned pier has been a Pacific Beach icon since 1927. Once home to a ballroom and carnival-like midway, Crystal Pier has since become a mellower vacation destination and one of the few places on the West Coast with rental accommodations over the ocean. Open to the public during the day and 24/7 for hotel guests, the pier is an ideal place to take in panoramic coastal views, watch whales and surfers playing, do some fishing or bathe in glorious coastal sunsets. Pacific Beach also has a lively restaurant, bar and club scene if eggnog isn"t your thing. There are certainly colder places to spend Christmas, but perhaps no place cooler than Crystal Pier.Desktop Version

Dec 21, 2024Ore Mountains, Saxony, Germany

Today"s image takes us to Saxony in Germany. Here we can see a halo—an optical phenomenon caused by ice crystals in the atmosphere—around the sun, photographed in the Ore Mountains. These mountains stretch along the Czech–German border, dividing the historic regions of Bohemia in the Czech Republic and Saxony in Germany. Towering over the landscape are two peaks: Klínovec in the Czech Republic, standing at 1,244 metres and Germany"s Fichtelberg at 1,215 metres. Centuries of human activity have left their mark here, creating a rich cultural landscape. Mining has shaped the terrain with its tips, dams, ditches and sinkholes, altering habitats for plants and animals. Remarkably, this region was also the birthplace of the transformation of mining and metallurgy from small-scale craftsmanship to large-scale industry—a crucial prelude to the Industrial Revolution.Desktop Version

Dec 20, 2024Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi, Lapland, Finland

Nestled in Rovaniemi, Finland, and pictured in today"s image, Santa Claus Village is a magical year-round destination. Situated right on the Arctic Circle, this village offers unique experiences, like crossing the Arctic Circle line. Right at the heart of Finnish Lapland, Rovaniemi is the capital of the region. Known for its winter-wonderland landscapes of snowy forests and the magical northern lights, Rovaniemi offers a unique blend of natural beauty and festive spirit. From snowy forests to festive encounters, Rovaniemi invites visitors to experience its enchantment year-round. Whether you"re on Team Christmas or Team Grinch, there"s no way you won"t be amazed by Rovaniemi"s charm.Desktop Version

Dec 19, 2024Sibiu Christmas Market, Romania

As the winter chill sets in, the city of Sibiu transforms into a dazzling holiday wonderland as it hosts one of Romania"s most popular Christmas markets. The Sibiu Christmas Market, known in Romanian as Târgul de Crăciun din Sibiu. Sparkling strings of lights drape across the square, seen in today"s image, creating a canopy that bathes the cobblestone streets in a warm, festive glow. There also stands a beautifully lit Christmas tree, surrounded by charming wooden huts selling everything from handcrafted ornaments to locally made treats like cozonac, a traditional Romanian sweet bread; vin fiert, an aromatic mulled wine and covrigi, a type of pretzel served warm and sprinkled with salt.Desktop Version

Dec 18, 2024Jim Corbett National Park, India

Hold onto your hats and binoculars, because in Jim Corbett National Park, the river is no ordinary waterway—it"s an elephant expressway! India"s oldest national park was established in 1936 and named after the naturalist and conservationist Jim Corbett. Housed in the foothills of the Himalayas near the popular hill-station of Nainital, the Jim Corbett National Park is known for its significant tiger population. During the summer months, the park becomes a bustling hub of wildlife activity, with Indian elephants frequently spotted roaming in herds numbering several hundred. As part of the Terai Arc Landscape Programme, the park is among the thirteen protected areas targeted for preservation and restoration. The overarching goal of this programme is ambitious yet crucial: to safeguard three of the most iconic terrestrial species, namely the tiger, the Asian elephant and the great one-horned rhinoceros.Desktop Version

Dec 17, 2024Reine, Norway

Step aside, regular beach houses—Reine"s little red cabins are here to steal the show. One of the prettiest places in the Lofoten Islands of Norway, Reine is a fishing village with a population of around 300. A trading post since 1775, it has evolved from a commercial hub to become a sought-after tourist destination. The village"s waterfront is lined with the traditional fishermen"s cabins called rorbu or rorbuer, which are mostly red in colour, as seen in today"s image. Once important to fishermen, these cabins have now become a popular pick for tourist rentals. In 1999, German painter Ingo Kühl set up a pop-up studio in a rorbu in Reine, where he painted scenes of the harbour framed by the towering mountain range.Desktop Version

Dec 16, 2024Salzburg, Austria

Today, we"re in Austria"s fourth-largest city—Salzburg, a place that never goes out of style. This city, shaped by centuries of change, owes much of its charm to its medieval roots and Baroque brilliance. The Altstadt also known as the "old town," is a treasure trove of architecture that tells a story. Narrow cobblestone streets guide you to landmarks like the Hohensalzburg Fortress, a symbol of resilience that has loomed over the city since the 11th century. Salzburg Cathedral is a striking example of Baroque craftsmanship, with its twin tower defining the skyline. Salzburg"s architectural legacy is not just about buildings but the music within them. This is, after all, Mozart"s birthplace, and his childhood home still attracts admirers.Desktop Version

Dec 15, 2024Lake Misurina, Dolomites, Italy

You might have heard of a pool of tears, but have you ever heard of a lake of tears? Well, legend has it that Lake Misurina, pictured here, in Italy"s Dolomites, was born from the sorrow of a giant named Sorapis. At more than 1,740 metres above sea level, it is the largest natural lake in the Cadore region, with its perimeter stretching more than two kilometres. The area around the lake is known for its beneficial climate, especially for those with respiratory conditions. Its crystal-clear waters and surrounding hotels provide a perfect getaway for up to 500 visitors. The lake played a role in the 1956 Winter Olympics, where it hosted speed skating events on natural ice, and it has even been immortalised in a pop song by singer Claudio Baglioni. With astounding views, mythical roots and activities for every season, this lake may well be the Dolomites" most alluring reflection.Desktop Version

Dec 14, 2024Northern hawk-owl, Canada

Meet the northern hawk-owl—featured in today"s image—a striking bird that is as fierce as it sounds! This medium-sized owl is found in the boreal forests of North America and Europe. Active only during the day, it has exceptional hearing and can plunge into the snow to capture rodents. With its long, tapered tail and a small head resembling a hawk, the northern hawk-owl is a striking sight. Known for its high-pitched, sharp call, the owl"s vocalisations are simple yet distinctive. It often emits a series of whistling hoots, making it stand out among its owl relatives.Desktop Version

Dec 13, 2024St. Stephens Basilica, Budapest, Hungary

As the holiday season kicks off, St. Stephen"s Basilica becomes the dazzling centrepiece of one of Budapest"s iconic Christmas markets. The fair buzzes with the festive spirit, offering a mix of Hungarian craft, festive décor and local delicacies, capturing the essence of a traditional Christmas.Desktop Version

Dec 12, 2024Poinsettia flower

Here"s the red poinsettia, one of the plants known for its striking star-shaped leaves. The poinsettia has become a symbol of Christmas cheer, brightening homes and public spaces across North America. Fun fact: Joel Roberts Poinsett, the first US ambassador to Mexico, introduced these vibrant plants to America in the 1820s after discovering them while exploring the Taxco region in Guerrero. The small yellow structures found at the centre of the vibrant bracts are the actual blooms. These flowers, grouped within cyathia, are crucial to the plant"s reproductive process. Interestingly, the hues of poinsettia bracts result from photoperiodism, a light-sensitive process crucial for their colour transformation.Desktop Version

Dec 11, 2024Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Italy

Let"s talk about one of the planet"s towering giants. Meet the Tre Cime di Lavaredo or the "Three Peaks of Lavaredo," standing tall on the right in today"s image. Part of the Sexten Dolomites in northeastern Italy, they are one of the most famous mountain groups in the Alps, rising to an elevation of 2,999 metres. These three peaks—Cima Grande, Cima Ovest and Cima Piccola—are a UNESCO World Heritage Site that captivates adventurers and nature lovers alike. During World War I, the front line between Italy and Austria-Hungary ran through the peaks, leaving the area with many remnants of the conflict, including fortifications, trenches, tunnels and commemorative plaques.Desktop Version

Dec 10, 2024Lands End, Cornwall, England

Windswept cliffs, rugged beauty and dramatic ocean views—welcome to Land"s End in Cornwall, England. Since ancient Greek times, when it was known as "Belerion" or "Place of the Sun" or in Arthurian legends about the lost land of Lyonesse, Land"s End has always been a place of fascination. Land"s End is the most south-westerly point on mainland Britain. It is famous for being the starting point or end of charity races which run the length of the island of Great Britain from Land"s End to John O"Groats at Britain"s north-easterly tip.Desktop Version

Dec 9, 2024Two guanacos, Torres del Paine National Park, Chile

Prick up your ears and stretch your neck—let"s step into the world of guanacos. These creatures, part of the same family as camels, alpacas and llamas, are native to the rugged landscapes of South America. Standing around 110 centimetres tall and weighing up to 90 kilograms, guanacos travel in herds led by a dominant male, accompanied by females and their young.Desktop Version

Dec 8, 2024Moorea, French Polynesia

In the heart of the South Pacific, Bora Bora is an unmissable destination for any traveller seeking paradise. Famous for its crystal-clear waters, the island will captivate you as soon as you step onto its white sandy beaches, such as Matira Beach. The shades of blue in the lagoon sparkle under the sun, offering a breathtaking view. Bora Bora is also a romantic haven, with its overwater bungalows offering stunning views of spectacular sunsets. A popular honeymoon destination, the island also serves as a true natural aquarium where you can swim with manta rays and observe colourful fish. Here, nature and humanity come together in a true Garden of Eden.Desktop Version

Dec 7, 2024Arraial do Cabo, Brazil

Let"s explore the breathtaking beauty of Pontal do Atalaia in Arraial do Cabo! This spot in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, is known for offering one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the region, providing a panoramic view of the surrounding beaches and islands. Imagine watching the sunset from this vantage point, where the sky meets the sea in a spectacle of colours. To access the famous Prainhas do Pontal beach, you have to go down an iconic staircase with more than 250 steps—the view as you descend is as impressive as the beach itself, with transparent waters and white sands that justify the nickname "Brazilian Caribbean." Pontal do Atalaia is also a UNESCO Atlantic Rainforest Biosphere Reserve and home to rare plant specimens. Come and discover this paradise and be enchanted by its breathtaking landscapes, where nature reveals itself in all its majesty.Desktop Version

Dec 6, 2024Helsinki, Finland

Welcome to the Old Town in Helsinki—the capital and largest city of Finland. Often referred to as the "Daughter of the Baltic" or the "Pearl of the Baltic," this city sits gracefully at the tip of a peninsula, surrounded by 315 islands. Often regarded as Finland"s only metropolis, this region is the northernmost metropolitan area in the world with a population exceeding one million.Desktop Version

Dec 5, 2024Tufa formation on Mono Lake, California, United States

Shaped by the slow passage of time, tufa—a type of porous limestone—emerges as one of nature"s most spectacular formations. While these towers can be found in many places, today"s image showcases them at Mono Lake in Mono County, California, United States. These structures develop when calcium-rich fresh water, flowing into the lake from several creeks and streams, mixes with the lake"s alkaline water. Over centuries, this interaction caused calcium carbonate to build up, forming tufa spires above the lake"s surface. To preserve the tufa towers, the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve was established in 1981 by the California State Legislature.Desktop Version

Dec 4, 2024Male white rhinoceroses

Today"s image features white rhinoceros in Lake Nakuru, Kenya. Their journey illustrates the importance of conservation efforts. They have two subspecies: the near-threatened southern white rhinoceros and the critically endangered northern white rhinoceros. In the late 19th century, the southern white rhino, found in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe and Kenya, was on the brink of extinction due to relentless poaching for their horns. But thanks to more than a century of dedicated management, their numbers have bounced back significantly. Unfortunately, the northern white rhino is in a precarious situation, with only two left—a mother and daughter. They"re now under protection at Kenya"s Ol Pejeta Conservancy.Desktop Version

Dec 3, 2024Amber Fort, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India

Walk through the streets of Jaipur district in the state of Rajasthan, India, and you"ll be greeted by grand palaces and towering forts that shape the region"s landscape. One of the most prominent among them is Amber Fort, which is perched on a small hill about 11 kilometres from the main city of Jaipur. Within the regal walls of this fort lies the Sattais Katcheri, which means the "court of 27 pillars," featured in today"s image. Amber Fort was built in 1592, and it served as the residence of the Maharajas, or rulers, of the area.Desktop Version

Bing wallpaper for mobile