The world's most beautiful natural gems: 9 exceptional UNESCO World Heritage sites

These high-altitude rice paddies in the lfugao mountains in the Philippines are the fruit of over 2,000 years of know-how. The result is a landscape of remarkable beauty, the perfect balance between man and nature.

Etna, located in Sicily, is one of the most active volcanoes in the world. Reaching an altitude of 3,300 metres, it is the pride of Sicilians and the source of many Greek myths.

Montenegro's Durmitor National Park is shaped by glaciers and cut by numerous rivers. The coniferous forests contain a wealth of endemic flora.

In the south of Norway lies the magnificent Geirangerfjord, one of the country's main attractions. The water is emerald blue and the snow-capped mountains are a splendid sight to behold.

The Lena Columns Nature Park is a magnificent site. The spectacular natural stone columns are almost 100 metres high and run along the course of the River Lena in Russia.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site comprises part of a volcano on the Kamchatka peninsula in Russia. These natural highlights trace the geological history of the region.

In the heart of the Pacific Ocean lie the world's most beautiful lagoons. Packed with underwater life, rich and unspoilt, they are a marvel, home to over 350 species of coral and 1,600 species of fish.

In the south-west of New Zealand, Te Wahipounamu is a resplendent site, lost in the middle of nowhere. It is home to one of the most visited places in New Zealand: Milford Sound fjord.

The Phong Nha-Ke Bang site in Vietnam is a remarkable place, with 300 caves featuring spectacular rock formations. It is possible to hike through the 70-kilometre network of galleries.