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!

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Are you into swinging?  Discover the best swings in Bali!  Bali swings have been big since Bali has had rice fields.  The first official Bali swing was reportedly opened north of Ubud at the Zen Hideaway Villa.

The Instagram app soon took the Bali swing to new heights of popularity. Villa guests took selfies and other visitors were soon paying $35.00 for the experience.  Today only guests enjoy the privilege.

Some sources believe the villa’s owner got together with other local entrepreneurs and launched the nearby Bali Swing Park.  The park is specifically dedicated to Bali swings.  If you’re going to Bali and want to be a swinger, check out our official guide to Bali swings complete with information on hours, charges, and more.

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The Wanagiri Hidden Hills Swings

The people of Wanagiri Hidden Hills were quick to jump on this swinging trend.  They have a number of different overlooks, nests, and swings available for visitors.  The view of  Lake Danau Buyan is said to be beautiful.

The swings here are also often aesthetically pleasing.  Enjoy the views from the bamboo platforms too.  The swings are situated on the left side of the road out of Bedugul.

Veteran visitors confirm that the locals can be aggressive in competing for your business.  They all want you to use their platforms and swings.  It’s remarkable how quickly they cashed in on the growing trend to provide nests, platforms, and swings for tourists.  Those in the know suggest taking the turn marked by a large sign noting: “1 km this way”. This route leads to the biggest swing spot in the area.  It features the region’s largest swing, platforms, nests, and even zip-lines.

Charges vary and fluctuate here.  While it’s not uncommon to pay $10.50USD for each swing or each viewpoint, some of the natives are willing to negotiate.  Some visitors have paid as little as $1.18USD per swing.

Location: Jalan Munduk – Wanagiri, Sukasada Kabupaten Buleleng

Hours: All week 9am until 5pm (in general)

Admission: Negotiable/varies

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The Terrace River Pool Swing

Don’t confuse the Terrace River Pool with the Tegalalang Rice Terraces swings.  The swing park here at the Terrace River Pool is growing in popularity.

It features several swings set at different heights, Instagrammable nests, and even has couples swings that start at $21.20USD.

Location: Jalan Raya Tegallalang, Gianyar

Hours: All week 9am until 6pm

Admission: $10.60USD

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The Tegalalang Rice Terrace Swings

You’ll find the most famous Bali swings right here at the Tegalalang Rice Terraces.  In fact, Tegalalang itself is quite popular with travelers.  Its years of popularity are due in part to the terraced rice fields that span the valley about less than 25 miles away from Seminyak and six miles north of Ubud.

It’s easy to find the most accessible swing in Bali.  Simply go into the village of Tegalalang and stand so that the cafes are on the valley’s southern side and the various shops are on your left.  From there it’s just a brief stroll down the road.  You’ll see it almost as soon as you spot the rice terraces.

As of late last year, you could swing across the valley here for roughly $17.63USD.  More swings are being constructed and prices are growing even more competitive though as the demand increases.  There are another two swings across the opposite of the valley.

They provide guests with another experience.  They are located above a significantly steeper section of this valley.  You can get some stunning selfies for Instagram here.

Mind you, in order to reach them you will have to hike through the famous rice terraces and down steep slopes too.  Visitors are warned to be especially careful though when it is raining because the above-mentioned slopes become very slippery when wet.  Hikers should wear appropriate hiking boots and be in decent physical shape additionally in order to best avoid suffering a sprained ankle or other injuries.

Ah, but the trek is well worth the effort.  Those who have been there say the view from there is incredible.  In fact, prior to the erection of the swings, hiking there was the area’s main draw.  

Once you arrive at the swings you will be secured in a special harness made for swinging out over it all.  It is not recommended for anyone the least bit afraid of heights since the men who launch you out across the valley are very enthusiastic in order to maximize both the fun and the fear.

Location: Jl. Raya Tegallalang, Tegallalang, Kabupaten Gianyar

Hours: All week 8 am until 5 pm

Admission: $17.66

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The Bali Swing Park

The country’s most popular place to swing is the Bali Swing park.  Situated less than 10 miles out of Ubud, Bali Swing has 15 single swings available.   It also has a trio of tandem swings so you can be frightened with your friends and family.

You can also take pics on one of the four huge posing stones.  (It’s become the thing to do there.)

There are also half a dozen artistic nests you can pose it too.  They are built natural elements like leaves and branches but are generally lined to be a more comfy spot to be photographed.  (Yup.  Posing in the nests is also a thing.   “When in Rome . . .”)

The park even offers a free shuttle service from Ubud.  Package tours (including other activities such as elephants rides, chasing waterfalls, and rafting) are also available.  It’s generally cheaper to create your own itinerary and hire a driver.

Admission: $28.24

Location: Jl. Dewi Saraswati No.7, Bongkasa Pertiwi, Abiansemal, Kabupaten Badung

Hours: All week 8am until 5pm

Warning!

Not all these activities are for everyone.  Be aware that the demand for Bali swings has led to the creation of swings that are not safely monitored.  Just last summer a man from France lost his life at Tegalalang when he attempted to push his child on a swing but did not let go.  He was pulled along with the swing and fell to his death.

(All images courtesy of original owners) 

The post Official Guide To The Best Bali Swings appeared first on Add to Bucketlist , Vacation Deals.