5 of the most scenic ziplines around the world

Zip lining is a thrilling experience, offering spectacular views of unique destinations. When deciding where to take your next super speed experience, consider a location with an unusually fantastic view through unexpected terrain. Vast gorges, mountain tops and turquoise water add a secondary depth to an already exhilarating adventure.

Dragon’s Breath in Labadee, Haiti

Only Royal Caribbean cruise passengers have access to this private slice of Haiti, and if you ever find yourself here, the Dragon’s Breath zip line ranks at the top of the island’s excursion options. Jeep like vehicles escort people up the bumpy mountain road to a structure 500 feet off of the ground. A secure system that keeps you latched on a cable from the time you step up onto the metal platform, relieves the intimidation a bit. Leaping from the edge is completely freeing; and the ride down the world’s longest over water zip line offers glimpses of paradise from a gorgeously different perspective. Landing is gentle and the entire ride is seemingly more peaceful than anything.

Zip World Velocity in Wales, UK

Located at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry in Bethesda, North Wales is the world’s fastest zip line. Peaceful is not the word to describe this 100mph monster; it’s a heart pounding experience all the way to the end. Velocity also claims the title of Europe’s longest zip line. Once the world’s largest slate quarry, Penrhyn now is minimally functional, but provides an interesting backdrop to those flying head first down the line. Greenery, an intense blue and aqua pond, as well as a rocky landscape create a beautiful visual experience combined with total intensity.

Mega Cavern in Louisville, Kentucky

Mega Cavern is the only underground zip line in the world, and served as a limestone quarry for 42 years in the 19th century. It takes about two and a half hours to work through the six line course, which takes participants deep within the historic caverns that rest 100-165 feet under the city of Louisville. While zipping over sometimes 90 foot deep gorges, there is a creepy, Dracula like feel to the dark, stone structure. A variety of colored lights splash onto the walls, adding a little bit of warmth and beauty to what may be one of the most interesting courses in the world. After zipping and navigating over suspension bridges, a double line ideal for racing finishes up the experience.

Panza Mega Zip in Okinawa, Japan

One of the newest attractions on the Okinawa coast, the Panza Mega Zip Line is located at the Sheraton Okinawa Sunmarina Resort. After leaping from a tall tower, the ride takes passengers over a stretch of white sand before extending over the ocean. You’ll experience a more leisurely trip down the 820 foot line, allowing for plenty of time to soak in the crystal water and surrounding tropical landscape before coming to a stop on a small strip of land, which connects back around to the main island. Sunset is the ideal time to take the leap.

La Tyrolienne in The French Alps

While the La Tyrolienne line wasn’t designed to reach high speeds, its height and location makes it one of the most jaw dropping in existence. At an altitude of 10,597 feet, skiers and tourists travel along the one mile route for nearly 45 seconds; from the Bouchet chair lift in Orelle, to the highest ski resort in Europe, Val Thorens. By zipping through the French Alps, a once unattainable view is achieved. Passengers feel deeply connected within the mountains while being able to fully take in the views of the French Alps. There’s simply nothing quite like zip lining through this intensely picturesque area.