Festivals of extremes: the most remote, beautiful and interesting finds around the world

Festivals under waterfalls, on remote islands, or inspired by Viking history – these are the most extreme gatherings around the world. In our expert guide to global festivals – created in partnership with Samsung and its new earbuds, Galaxy Buds3 Pro – we’ve handpicked a few of our favourites and highlighted what makes them special. 

The scenic one: Fuji Rock, Japan

What is it? A rock-heavy romp at Naeba Ski Resort in Yuzawa, Niigata.

Why go? The music is just as impressive as the location. Catch the Killers, Kraftwerk and Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds while surrounded by scenic mountain ranges. There’s also the Dragondola to get excited about – it's the longest gondola lift in the world – which carries festival goers up to the top of the mountain so you can watch over the site like some kind of god.

The remote one: Tremor, the Azores

What is it? A multi-genre festival held on a tiny island in the Atlantic Ocean. 

Why go? Tremor’s inaccessibility only adds to its charm. Famed for platforming innovative underground artists in rewarding ‘secret gig’ settings (festival goers are informed by texts where the next artist will be), such as chapels on exposed peninsulas and mid-century theatre in the capital of Ponta Delgada. 

The one on an actual farm: The Thing (Sasquatch! Festival), USA

What is it? One of America’s most treasured music festivals, taking place in the jaw-dropping Gorge Amphitheatre.

Why go? It’s the ultimate gathering for indie music heads. Where else can you see Ethel Cian, St Vincent and Toro Y Moi while also surrounded by alpacas and swooping countryside landscapes? Plus, with its bowl-like main stage, you’re guaranteed a great spot wherever you’re standing. 

The one on its own island: Sziget, Hungary

What is it? A massive music and cultural festival hosting over one thousand performances. 

Why go? This week-long gathering on a Hungarian island offers something for all tastes. An amped-up amusement park of epic music stages, Sziget will welcome headliners such as Fred Again.., Halsey, Kylie, Janelle Monae and Stormzy this August. Plus, it’s all set on one island so you can access 24/7 music without a long schlep home.  

The one in an Indian palace: Magnetic Fields, India

What is it? An electronic music festival held in a seventeenth-century Indian palace.

Why go? If location alone isn’t enough to sway you, Magnetic Fields pushes all forms of non-mainstream music. Previous iterations welcomed Ben UFO, Four Tet, Hudson Mohawk and many more, alongside interactive art installations, poets, photographers, and social activists. There’s even a dedicated wellness space should you need it. 

The active one: Snowbombing, Austria

What is it? Apres partying is taken to a whole new level at this rave-heavy ski retreat.

Why go? A day of shredding on the slopes followed by a night of non-stop drum and bass bangers? Snowbombing is a festival taking things to the extreme. Every year, thousands of eager attendees flock to the Austrian mountains for a week of live music in unique venues, both in the mountains and the local town of Mayrhofen.

The Viking one: Summer Solstice, Iceland

What is it? The only music event in the world held amid 72 hours of non-stop sunlight.  

Why go? Reykjavik’s Secret Solstice will have you partying in thermal pools, in caves and on top of glaciers. Soak up endless sunlight while witnessing jaw-dropping live music in truly spectacular surroundings. While next year remains under wraps, previous line-ups include Martin Garrix, Rita Ora, Morcheeba and even the occasional Viking rock band. 

The one in a desert: Burning Man, USA 

What is it? Arguably the biggest cultural gathering on the planet – all in the middle of the Nevada Desert. 

Why go? Yes, you know it from the social media posts. But aside from its celebrity fanbase (Paris Hilton, Heidi Klum and Chris Rock have all attended), Burning Man is legitimate in its championing of experimental music, amazing art installations and community spirit. Join 70,000 revellers in the desert for Black Rock City 2024, where the theme of ‘Curiouser & Curiouser’ will underpin a full week of performance and entertainment. 

Here are the best music festivals in the world.