Whether you’re age five or 50, swings are plain fun. There’s simply something exhilarating about propelling yourself through the air. Swings are perhaps the perfect blend of mild adrenaline and serenity.
Swings evoke a feeling of freedom, a sense of nostalgia, or perhaps even an intimate memory. Surely you’ve heard of a secret rendezvous by the swing set for that romantic first kiss in the dark. Celebrating one’s adolescence in a place once enjoyed as a child can also add a special significance all its own. Note how we leap from childhood into adulthood. . . and often spend the rest of our lives swinging back and forth between the two.
Now throw in some spectacular scenery as you swing and you’re (ahem) set. So come swing with us, dear reader. Join us as we visit the 10 best pretty and thrilling swings of the world.
Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
The Datu Swing overlooks Mount Agung. Partially submerged in the crystal clear ocean water, and is owned by the popular Hotel Ombak Sunset, on the coast of popular Gili Trawangan. Gili Trawangan is the largest of a trio of the three Gili Islands.
It is also known as a real “party island.” Veteran visitors agree it’s a “must-see” and the legendary swing, straight out of a book of fairy tales, is a “must-do” as well. The best time for pictures is at sunset.
Maldives, South Asia
Check out this popular cocoon-like swing found in the Maldives. It’s both comfy and uniquely decorative with a look that makes it blend in with the gorgeous surroundings. Some have described it as something “straight out of a dream.”
Banos, Ecuador
Known to many as “The Swing at the End of the World,” you’ll find this one in Casa del Arbol (The Treehouse), which is actually a 20-minute drive from downtown Banos. The swing is little more than a simple blank suspended by a pair of ropes from a steel beam. What makes it special is that it hangs over an impressive mountain precipice. Visit on a clear day and due to its close proximity to the Tungurahua Volcano, you’ll enjoy a stunning view. (A zipline’s also available,)
Ubud, Indonesia
There is a very popular swing located in Ubud, Indonesia. It hangs over a precipice. Swinging on it is a thrilling adventure in and of itself. From the swing seat, you will have an incredible view of the river, the rice fields, the verdant valley below and even famous Mount Agung.
Tulum, Mexico
Those who have been can tell you that there is certainly no shortage of lounger or hammock-filled beach clubs here in Tulum. This once underrated town on Mexico’s Caribbean coast now includes a few places on this stretch of white sand that has swing seat right by the bar. Perhaps the best one is at Coco Tulum which features Instagram-ready, neutral monochrome swings overlooking the ocean.
Kirby Cove, USA
“If you’re going to San Francisco/be sure to . . .” check out a place named Kirby Cove. Situated at the very base of California’s memorable Marin Headlands, this popular swing may not look all that special but it is reported to offer users truly “captivating views” of the world-famous Golden Gate Bridge.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The Over the Edge swing is the highest swing in all of Europe. Found at the well-known A’DAM Lookout in Amsterdam, this sturdy red metal swing has room for you and an adventurous friend or loved one. This might not be the most comfortable swing but the contraption certainly provides visitors with another way of “getting high” in the popular capital of the Netherlands.
Bernal Heights Park, USA
Apparently, there are a lot of swingers in California. Indeed, this is the state’s second entry on this “10 Best” list. This particular swing is ensconced in lovely Billy Goat Hill Park in San Francisco.
Located in modest Bernal Heights Park right outside downtown San Francisco, the view of the city and bay are stunning. It is just a 10-minute drive from the well-known Mission neighborhood, home of taquerias and hipster vibes.) The swing itself is little more than a smooth plank secured by rope but on a clear day, it simply cannot be beat as a calming spot to catch the beautiful sunrise or sunset. Believe it or not, the swing is not generally too crowded but it does indeed attract curious locals and tourists who want an additional Instagrammable photo of their vacation.
Hjørundfjord, Norway
The popular Hjørundfjord Swing can be found in the quaint village of Trandal in Møre og Romsdal county, roughly an hour from the coastal city called Alesund. You must either take a ferry or hike over the mountain to reach this swing. More specifically, the swing is in the garden owned by the people who own the Christian-Gaard pub and inn.
The swing overlooks the majestic Hjørundfjord and the famous alps of Sunnmøre. Take in the most incredible views of the glacier and fjord. While being featured in such articles as this has obviously increased the swing’s popularity, crowds of tourists are still not an issue since it is still not all that easy to reach if you’re on a tight schedule. If you do decide to check it out then veteran visitors suggest that you travel there in the summer so you can also attend the famous festivals that Trandal hosts: the Trandal Country Festival and Trandalblues.
Chiang Khan, Thailand
Last but certainly not least, is the well-known swing at the memorable misty Phu Tok viewpoint. Those who have been (and swung), say that the experience “will make you feel like you’re floating in the clouds to your dreamland.” The swing is situated in Chiang Khan which is a peaceful, little town in the province of Loei in the northeastern part of the country on the bank of the Mekong River across from Laos.
So there you have it, dear readers. Did we miss your favorite? If so, then let us know in the comments section!
