Bing wallpaper for mobile

Hottest Latest
J.R.R. Tolkien Day
J.R.R. Tolkien Day
It"s time to bust out the furry feet and pointed ears because today is J.R.R. Tolkien Day, which celebrates the literary legend who spun the fantastical tales of "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit." On this day, the Tolkien Society continues the tradition of toasting "the professor," like Frodo toasted his uncle Bilbo on his birthday. Tolkien"s roots run through Oxford, where he studied English Literature, joined the Officer Training Corps during World War I, and later became a professor of Old English language and literature at both Leeds and Oxford universities. Since 1979, Oxford"s Bodleian Library has been home to the Tolkien Archive, a precious collection of manuscripts, artwork and even a Middle-earth map with Tolkien"s handwritten notes. His legacy shows us the power of boundless storytelling, which encourages us to seize each day and make the most of the time that is given to us!Desktop Version
Red deer, Canada
Red deer, Canada
Throughout history, red deer have captured humanity"s awe and respect. These creatures can be found across Europe, Asia, parts of North Africa and a few other regions. In Canada, these animals are primarily found in Alberta, with the prairies and parklands around the city of Red Deer offering an ideal habitat for them.Desktop Version
Pancake Day
Pancake Day
Get ready to revel, because Mardi Gras is here! Also called Pancake Day, Pancake Tuesday, Fat Tuesday or Shrove Tuesday, the holiday was originally celebrated to live life to the fullest before fasting and giving up other indulgences for Lent—though many modern celebrators are just happy to use the occasion as an excuse to party. Fat Tuesday celebrations take place in cities and countries around the world, particularly those with French influence, due to the settlers that brought the custom. Out of these places, New Orleans in the United States has become intrinsically linked with the festival thanks to its massive four-to-eight-week-long celebration.Desktop Version
Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway
Svolvaer, Lofoten Islands, Norway
Housed in the Arctic Circle, Norway"s Lofoten Islands are a crossroads of traditional life and modern industry. One of two towns in Lofoten, Svolvaer boasts a long history as a fishing village. Before it became a town of its own, it was part of the town of Vågan, where people have lived for over 1,000 years. Beyond fishing, it also serves as a sanctuary for travellers looking for a peaceful getaway, with as many as 200,000 visitors in a single year. The traditional houses—called rorbu—are built on poles over water, and add a distinctive layer of charm to the town. These cabins were once made for travelling fishermen and have now been refurbished to meet contemporary tastes.Desktop Version
Sassnitz lighthouse, Rügen, Germany
Sassnitz lighthouse, Rügen, Germany
This winter wonderland is Rügen, Germany"s largest island. From the iconic chalk cliffs of Jasmund National Park to sandy beaches, the island provides a diverse landscape for nature enthusiasts to revel in. Many artists have come here in the past to give free rein to their creativity. The chalk cliffs inspired one of Germany"s most famous painters—Caspar David Friedrich. Pictured here is Sassnitz lighthouse, a maritime beacon that has guided sailors through the Baltic Sea since its establishment in 1905. Though ice may be covering the shore, the lighthouse still stands, frozen as over, shining a light for ships to sail by.Desktop Version
Haut-Barr Castle
Haut-Barr Castle
Haut-Barr Castle is a medieval fortress that looms at an altitude of 1,476 feet, in northern Alsace. Built in 1170, it underwent significant transformations and restorations over the centuries. Its construction was initiated by the bishops of Strasbourg with the purpose of overseeing the Zorn Valley and the Alsace plain, earning it the evocative nickname "the eye of Alsace." On a clear day, it is possible to catch a glimpse of the spire of Strasbourg Cathedral. The castle, constructed on three rocks, is connected by a bridge, known as the "Devil"s Bridge". Legend has it that its construction is attributed to the devil as it would have been impossible for anyone else to build such a sturdy bridge.Desktop Version
Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve, Estonia
Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve, Estonia
Among Estonia"s array of natural sites is the Alam-Pedja Nature Reserve, established in 1994. This occasionally ice-covered, vast area of wetlands, forests, and rivers is the largest natural reserve in Estonia. From the majestic white-tailed eagle to the elusive black stork, over 200 bird species can be found here. Situated in the county of Tartu and covering an expanse of 132 square miles, this reserve hosts unspoiled wilderness. A tapestry of aquatic forests unfolds here: still water, bog, and floodplain forests, dotted with elongated sedge plants. Winding trails and boardwalks here invite explorers to craft their own adventures.Desktop Version
Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Road to Hana, Maui, Hawaii, USA
Tourists often equate the island state of Hawaii in the United States with relaxation, but one of its most well-known attractions—the Road to Hana—might have you gripping a steering wheel tightly. Stretching for 64 miles along the northern coast of Maui from Kahului to the quiet town of Hana, the highway has over 600 curves and numerous one-lane bridges. The drive takes focus, so don"t forget to stop and relax at the lush rainforests and cascading waterfalls. Some highlights along the route include the Waikamoi Ridge Trail, the easily accessible Twin Falls and the black sands of Waianapanapa State Park.Desktop Version
Bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Australia
Bathing boxes at Brighton Beach, Australia
The Brighton Bathing Boxes on Melbourne"s Brighton Beach, painted with a rainbow of colours, are enduring relics. With recent additions bringing their total to 96, these huts have become one of Melbourne"s premier tourist attractions. The history of the bathing boxes is as colourful as their appearance. They first popped up on Brighton"s coastline in 1860, providing a modest cover for bathers swapping for their bathing suits. Worn out and damaged during the post-World War I depression, the beach huts received collective maintenance in 1934. Despite the upkeep, the multicoloured structures were faced with the threat of removal in 1952. But thanks to the Brighton Bathing Box Association for successfully securing their survival, we can still enjoy the vibrant coastguards today!Desktop Version
Whooper swans
Whooper swans
An elegant creature for a majestic setting. These all-white birds with yellow-and-black bills, gliding on the mirror of Lake Kussharo in Japan, are the Eurasian whooper swans, also known as the common swan. Named for their loud "whooping" call, these beauties, with a wingspan between 2 to 3 metres, are one of the world"s heaviest birds that can fly. While whooper swans are Finland"s national bird, they only spend their breeding season there. Those swans, as well as others in various northern areas migrate to warmer, often coastal areas when cold weather sets in. All that travel doesn"t ruin their relationships—these waterfowl form strong, monogamous pairs that can last for life.Desktop Version
Angkor, Cambodia
Angkor, Cambodia
Towering ancient temples, moss-covered ruins and enchanting forests can all be found in the ancient site of Angkor in Cambodia. In the 12th century, it was the bustling capital of the Khmer Empire, ruled by King Jayavarman VII. A gem within Angkor is Angkor Thom (pictured here is its North Gate), the "Great City." Strolling through Angkor Thom"s intricate ruins, gates and the iconic Bayon Temple—with its 216 gigantic smiling stone faces—is like stepping into an adventure movie. Angkor"s star attraction, Angkor Wat, is the world"s largest religious monument—spread across 163 hectares—and a masterpiece of Khmer architecture. It was initially constructed as a Hindu temple before becoming a Buddhist site. So, if you"re looking for a blend of history, art and nature, this UNESCO World Heritage Site guarantees an unforgettable journey into the past.Desktop Version
Saint Paul Winter Carnival
Saint Paul Winter Carnival
A chilly paradise awaits at the Saint Paul Winter Carnival! This annual celebration transforms the US state of Minnesota"s capital city, Saint Paul, into a winter wonderland of festivity and joy, this year between January 25 and February 4. In 1885, a group of reporters visited and referred to Minnesota as another Siberia, which offended city officials. As a response, they devised a plan to showcase the area"s winter beauty. The Winter Carnival was born, featuring various seasonal activities such as bobsleighing and ice horse-racing. Today, the celebration serves not only to impress visitors but to strengthen community bonds through parades, markets, winter sports and ice carving competitions and displays, such as the beautiful frozen skyline seen in today"s image.Desktop Version
London Marathon
London Marathon
Lace up those sneakers, channel your inner Mo Farah and get ready to join the ranks of marathon legends. This year, the London Marathon is back in its usual spring spot! This second-largest annual race in the United Kingdom will see runners from all walks (or runs) of life come together to tackle the ultimate challenge: 26.2 miles of pure grit and determination. Starting off at one of the three start lines (blue, green and red) between Greenwich and Blackheath, runners weave their way through the streets of the capital city, passing historic landmarks like Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace. Moreover, the London Marathon isn"t just about personal glory; it"s also about giving back. With millions of pounds raised for charity each year, every step these runners take helps make the world a better place.Desktop Version
Playa del Silencio, Spain
Playa del Silencio, Spain
Spain"s Asturias region, known for its green setting, rich artistic legacy, and excellent food, has a lot of hidden gems—like the one in today"s image. The Playa del Silencio—Beach of Silence in English—is a shell-shaped cove with a serene ambience and a natural rock amphitheatre. The beach"s isolation from urban areas and the absence of commercial establishments and noisy crowds contribute to the sense of solitude. The rugged cliffs and golden sands provide an ideal place to soak in its peaceful vibes, while nearby caves and water activities provide exciting adventures for those who crave them.Desktop Version
Canary Wharf tube station, London
Canary Wharf tube station, London
Often described as cathedral-like, Canary Wharf underground station isn"t just a mundane transport hub. The location is a portal to a world where history, commerce and futuristic design collide. Designed by Norman Foster, a key figure in British modernist architecture, the tube station was officially opened to the public in 1999. Since then, it has been serving the ever-expanding Canary Wharf business district. When it comes to London, it is your gateway to the city"s heart. Hop on the Jubilee line and you are mere minutes away from iconic landmarks like Westminster, the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace.Desktop Version
Sea otter
Sea otter
Sea otters are native to the northern and eastern coasts of the North Pacific Ocean. The otter featured in today"s image was photographed in Prince William Sound, Alaska, United States. Weighing 14-45 kilograms, they"re expert foragers, diving to the seabed to find food. These clever critters are smart as well as cute: they use rocks to crack open shellfish, making them one of the few animals that use tools. There used to be as many as 300,000 in the wild, but they were heavily hunted for almost two centuries, as their dense fur was highly prized. By 1911, it is thought that only around 2,000 were left. Thankfully, an international hunting ban, conservation efforts and reintroduction programs have helped them rebound, and they are now found in about two-thirds of their historic habitat. Despite this success, some populations are still struggling, and sea otters are still an endangered species.Desktop Version
Cave Dale and Peveril Castle, Derbyshire
Cave Dale and Peveril Castle, Derbyshire
Peveril Castle was once a medieval fortress, standing tall on a limestone outcrop. Its ruins now overlook the village of Castleton in the Peak District in Derbyshire, England. Construction of the castle began shortly after the Norman conquest in the 11th century, although it wasn"t completed until the 14th century. From the castle, visitors can enjoy views of Cave Dale, a ravine that was carved by glacial meltwater over many years. In the limestone walls of the dale, there are caves and disused lead mines. From hidden caves to towering battlements, this corner of the Peak District is bursting with history and is just waiting to be explored.Desktop Version
Mount Fuji Day
Mount Fuji Day
Around 60 miles southwest of Tokyo stands one of Japan"s cultural icons: Mount Fuji. The country"s tallest mountain rises more than 3,600 metres above the surrounding landscape, with its near-symmetrical cone covered in snow for nearly five months each year. For centuries, Fujisan—as it is known in Japanese—has been worshiped as a sacred mountain. In the Shinto faith, Fuji is deified as Asama no Okami, and shrines dedicated to it are built within sight of the mountain. February 23 is celebrated as Mount Fuji Day (富士山の日) because the word "Fujisan" can be interpreted as "2, 2, 3." Although it"s not a national holiday, people often take the opportunity to learn more about this majestic peak. It"s also a day to reflect on the future of the mountain, and how it can be preserved for future generations. Every year, more than 300,000 people climb Mount Fuji, and overtourism has become a real concern.Desktop Version
Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada
Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park, British Columbia, Canada
At the heart of the Canadian Rockies, the remnants of storm clouds swirl around the peaks of Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park. Established in 1922, this park in British Columbia is named after the tallest peak in the southern Rockies, which stands at 3,618 metres. The park is home to Assiniboine Lodge, the first ski lodge in the Canadian Rockies, built in 1928. With no road access, anyone who wants to visit the park must either hike or take a helicopter ride, making the journey an adventure. But the effort is worth it: this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts stunning landscapes, from glaciers and lakes to towering peaks and limestone caves. There are multiple hiking trails that will take trekkers through forests, across meadows and up mountains. It"s also a popular spot for cross-country skiing and alpine mountaineering. If you"re looking for a place where every view is a masterpiece, Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park may just be it.Desktop Version
Lion, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Lion, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
In Uganda"s Queen Elizabeth National Park, some lions take napping to new heights—quite literally. The tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha Sector have a habit of sprawling across the branches of giant fig trees, as seen in today"s image. Experts believe they climb to escape ground-level heat or pesky insects, but these naps make for an unforgettable sight. This vast park spans volcanic craters, open plains and dense forests. A safari here promises encounters with Uganda"s incredible wildlife.Desktop Version
Grey seal pup
Grey seal pup
If you happen to visit England"s Norfolk coasts around this time, you"re very likely to see some grey seal pups experiencing the world for the first time. About 3,000 grey seal babies are born on the shoreline between early November and January each year—slightly earlier than the ones living on the US coasts—making the area one of the most significant breeding regions in the United Kingdom. The seal moms feed their pups on the beach for three weeks, and their effort is noticeable. The offspring gain approximately 2 kilograms each day in those weeks! Following the feeding period, the young seals are not water-ready just yet. They stay on the beach until their pale fur darkens to a mottled grey, then head to the sea and learn to hunt themselves.Desktop Version
Burrowing owl chicks
Burrowing owl chicks
In today"s image, we see four burrowing owls in Wyoming, USA, standing near their burrow, looking like a band of mischievous siblings. Known for their distinctive white eyebrows and yellow eyes, these owls are active during the day, hunting insects and small mammals. These resilient species, capable of surviving for at least 9 years in the wild and surpassing 10 years in captivity, face numerous threats in their environment. Predation from various sources, including badgers, coyotes, snakes and both feral and domesticated pets like cats and dogs, poses a constant danger to its survival. The burrowing owl exhibits remarkable adaptive behaviours, such as nesting and roosting in abandoned ground burrows of armadillos, prairie dogs or skunks. When confronted with danger, the owl retreats to these burrows and emits rattling and hissing sounds.Desktop Version
Kingfisher
Kingfisher
Don"t be fooled by its tropical look, this bird has a wide range and adapts to various climates—meet kingfisher. With over 100 species spread across the globe, kingfishers are found in a variety of habitats, from dense forests to coastal regions. Most species, like the common kingfisher, prefer freshwater environments across Europe, Asia and Africa, while others, such as the belted kingfisher, are found in North and South America. These birds are instantly recognisable by their vibrant plumage, often featuring a striking mix of blues, greens and oranges.Desktop Version
Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, Georgia, USA
Bonaventure Cemetery, Savannah, Georgia, USA
Cemeteries are not typically the first place people consider exploring, but Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia, United States, defies expectations. The city is often referred to as the most haunted in America, so devotees to all things spooky gather here, along with those paying respects to loved ones who have passed. A cemetery since 1846, the site is perched on a bluff overlooking the Wilmington River. Its oak trees, dripping with Spanish moss, loom over walkways, monuments and elaborate burial vaults. If it sounds like stepping into a southern Gothic novel, you"re on the right track: the 160-acre property was featured in John Berendt"s 1994 bestseller, "Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil". From poet Conrad Aiken to songwriter Johnny Mercer, famous figures rest here. Among them, you"ll find Little Gracie Watson. Her life-sized statue, carved in marble, watches over visitors with an eerie calm. Legend has it, her spirit still lingers. Would you care to meet her?Desktop Version
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Featured in today"s image is a winter wonderland in Alberta, Canada. Banff National Park is the perfect place for those seeking a refreshing escape. Established in 1885, it became the first national park in the country following the discovery of hot springs near Sulphur Mountain. Over time, Banff"s boundaries expanded, and it became part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning over 2,500 square miles, this national park transforms into a snowy playground during the winter, attracting visitors eager for skiing, snowshoeing, curling, skijoring and wildlife tours that offer plenty to explore.Desktop Version