There's no question that The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim is one of the most beautiful games ever made. Even nearly ten years after its first release, its sights and sounds still take away our breaths when we adventure through the snowy, tundra-like province of Skyrim.
The game came a long way from its previous installments, and with mods available to make it look even more realistic and gorgeous, it's a sight for sore eyes. Players who are looking to snap some aesthetic screenshots, or just want to see the best sights in Skyrim, should visit these locations for their fix of natural beauty.
Updated September 30th, 2023 by Paul Woodward: Unfortunately, Elder Scrolls 6 is still a long ways away. With Starfield now released, it is certainly possible that more news of Elder Scrolls 6 will come soon. Until then, Skyrim has plenty to offer players even though it has been out so long. This is especially the case with player created mods, as there will always be something new for players. Regardless of whether it is a player's first or fifth playthrough of Skyrim, there are many breathtaking locations throughout the base game and its DLC expansions. In fact, some of these areas are so beautiful that players may want to take a few pictures to have as a desktop background.
17 Arcwind Point
- Location: West of Rift Imperial Camp
The snow and unforgiving rock faces of Arcwind Point may leave players longing for a nice night in a warm inn, but it's worth lingering for a while to check out the sights that this inhospitable location has to offer. Despite being an ancient Nordic tomb, Arcwind Point looks more like a temple.
Skeletons, a draugr, and a dragon make the area a challenge for those who just want to do a bit of peaceful sightseeing, but visitors who overcome those challenges are treated to a gorgeous vista that captures the savage beauty of Skyrim. Part of the majesty of Arcwind Point no doubt comes from its relative isolation: situated among sharp stone peaks and hounded by the wind and cold, Arcwind Point is no conventional tourist attraction. It's also a great place to enjoy the night sky as well.
16 Castle Volkihar
- Location: The Sea of Ghosts
On a secluded island in the Sea of Ghosts sits Castle Volkihar. The Castle acts as the headquarters of the Volkihar vampire clan, and should the player join them, it can serve as the player's own base of operations as well. Surrounded by the frigid sea and built of imposing gray stone, the Castle's exterior is an awe-inspiring and imposing sight. In many ways, however, the interior may be the most impressive of all.
From the bloody banquet hall that welcomes players to the crumbling courtyard and abandoned chambers that lie beyond, Castle Volkihar is a testament to the gorgeous art design and clever environmental storytelling that help make Skyrim so great. The spooky vibes of death and fallen luxury within are reason enough for a player to want to join the vampires and have an excuse to spend more time soaking in the sights. For the undead or just someone interested in exploring Skyrim's more forbidding corners, Castle Volkinar is a must-see.
15 Lake Ilinalta
- Location: Follow the river from Riverwood down west or head northwest from Falkreath.
Lake Ilinalta is one of four lakes found in the province of Skyrim (five if the lake in Solstheim is counted). As such, lakes are a somewhat rare sight. There are four small ponds to be found as well, but these larger bodies of water that are landlocked are surprisingly uncommon.
That's easily why Lake Ilinalta is so special. It has the beautiful mountainous surroundings, the half-submerged mysterious ruins crawling with mages, and the creepy Half-Moon Mill run by vampires. There's also a shipwreck in the depths of the lake, and a Standing Stone located on a small island in the middle. This is truly a great place to just watch the sun rise or set.
14 The Rift's Woodlands
- Location: Southeastern Skyrim.
Choosing just one location from The Rift is far too difficult, which is why the entire Hold qualifies as a beautiful location. It has a significantly different appearance to other southern holds of Skyrim, with autumnal trees and bushes that come in all shades of orange and yellow.
The Rift is home to Riften, which is easily the most corrupted city in the entirety of Skyrim. Riften's surrounding area, and the environment around Lake Honrich, which is connected to the city, are all worth visiting for some Instagram-worthy snaps.
13 Bard's Leap Summit
- Location: Inside Lost Valley Redoubt, down the river southeast of Markarth.
Mountains and cliffs were one of Skyrim's major selling point, as was the ability to climb them. Todd Howard famously advertised that players could get almost anywhere they wanted, without restrictions, and this does ring true even when it makes little sense.
One of the most impressive cliffs or high points in Skyrim is Bard's Leap Summit. This location is a bridge of sorts hanging over a flowing waterfall plummeting down an impressive fall into the waters below. Those brave enough to make the jump will be rewarded with Speech training by a ghost.
12 Bloated Man's Grotto
- Location: On the northside of the mountains next to Lake Ilinalta.
Lush caves are a specialty of Skyrim, and one of the earliest and best locations for admiring such caves is the Bloated Man's Grotto. It's relatively close to Riverwood, making it a common find for those who explore past the mountains where Bleak Falls Barrow lies.
The Grotto isn't just a nice place to look at. One of the coolest unique one-handed swords can also be found here. Bolar's Oathblade has the appearance of a katana, with a unique Stamina enchantment and the ability to force creatures below level 12 to run off for 30 seconds when hit.
11 Shadowgreen Cavern
- Location: Northwest from Solitude, in the mountains just opposite of the Thalmor Embassy.
Most lush caves in Skyrim tend to be around its southern and central areas. This is why it's surprising to find something like the Shadowgreen Cavern in the snowy mountains near Solitude, and few ever come to visit it unless brought here by a potential side quest. Though if players make their way here without an objective, the scenery will be a reward in and of itself.
This strangely lush cave gets its charm from its greenery and the light that shines in from above. For players looking for alchemy ingredients, this cave is the perfect place to gather a few resources while taking in the sights.
10 Markarth
- Location: Southwestern corner of Skyrim.
Out of all the cities in Skyrim, Markarth, despite its hidden and bloody storyline, is arguably the best-looking. Perched perfectly on the side of the rocky cliffs, it naturally blends in with its surroundings. Two waterfalls run down the city, which exists in multiple levels connected with winding stone steps.
All this is actually age-old Dwemer architecture, which is known for being quite bulky and functional, but it does have an interesting and charming aesthetic here. Not to mention, Vlindrel Hall, the purchasable house here, has one of the best views from its front door.
9 Nilheim
- Location: East from Ivarstead, across the small lake.
Speaking of amazing views, for a great vantage point from which players can see far north and south, as well as High Hrothgar, consider visiting Nilheim. Located in The Rift, this watch tower is surrounded by a waterfall and is right next to a cliff overlooking most of The Rift, and even the Northeastern parts of Skyrim.
Players will see the Sea of Ghosts and even Windhelm from up here, which makes it an excellent location to visit for an amazing 360 degree view of major sights and landmarks across the province.
8 Merryfair Farm
- Location: Northwest from Riften by Lake Honrich.
In idyllic farm located near the city of Riften, it might not seem like anything special at first glance. However, the beautiful autumnal tundra that surrounds it, paired with a gorgeous view of the lake right by Riften is what makes this place so special.
This is some of the more colorful areas in Skyrim, and is definitely worth a quick visit for a rest from one's adventures and would to take in the relaxing views. Even the Goldenglow Estate is visible from this location.