Hormuz island

Hormuz, an island in the Persian Gulf, is known as the Rainbow Island because of its colourful beaches. It's one of the most gorgeous islands in Iran and the world as well as one of the most intact in the Middle East. Iran's Hormuz island is rich in memorable geology, with its colourful soils, salt caves and mountains, and ocher-stained streams and beaches. The island is a salt dome, which is a teardrop-shaped mound of rock salt, gypsum, anhydrite, and other evaporites that have risen through overlying layers of rock.

Hormuz island, a historically important port, is now a calm place, home to a small village, Iranian artists, and natural wonders created by the island's geography, which includes whitewashed vistas created by the saltiness of its low elevation, in addition to the ochre. The Red Beach, Rainbow Valley, Salt Mountain, and Valley of Statues are popular destinations for visitors to the island. Hormuz's maritime history can be seen by visiting a coastal Portuguese fort, and the island's artistic energy can be seen in murals and other artwork that dot the island, as well as Dr. Ahmad Nadaian's museum and gallery.

• Best time to visit: November to May.
• Location: Persian Gulf, Iran