New Zealand Archives - 国产吃瓜黑料 Online /tag/new-zealand/ Live Bravely Thu, 06 Feb 2025 03:17:22 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://cdn.outsideonline.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/favicon-194x194-1.png New Zealand Archives - 国产吃瓜黑料 Online /tag/new-zealand/ 32 32 The 13 Most Magical Long Walks In the World /adventure-travel/destinations/long-walks-world/ Mon, 27 Jan 2025 10:30:25 +0000 /?p=2694715 The 13 Most Magical Long Walks In the World

We鈥檙e not talking about big thru-hikes, but extended pathways through glorious landscapes in some of the most stunning places in the world

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The 13 Most Magical Long Walks In the World

I鈥檝e tackled sections of the Pacific Crest Trail鈥攂ackpacking, day hiking, and trail running鈥攂ut to think of taking months off to complete all 2,650 miles of this trail, which climbs mountain passes and traverses remote California, Oregon, and Washington, feels overwhelming. A long-distance walk, on the other hand, feels more manageable, like something any of us could pull off, given some time. They mostly involve days and weeks rather than many months, and are at more consistent elevations.

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I鈥檓 not talking about a mountainous thru-hike where you plan out food caches and sleep on the ground. I鈥檓 talking about a meandering or purposeful walk that goes on for days, weeks, or maybe months. A big commitment, yes. A physical feat for sure. A mental and emotional pilgrimage of sorts. But not so strenuous that most people couldn鈥檛 do it, building up their mileage.

These long walks, on byways and moderate terrain, are more like scenic tours of spectacular landscapes, or adventurous journeys through cities and forests. They are not so much to be completed as experienced.

And I think they’re the most beautiful in the world.

1. Best Urban Trail

Empire State Trail, New York

Empire State Trail, New York, passes George Washington Bridge over the Hudson River
The Manhattan Greenway section of the New York State Empire Trail. This stretch runs under the George Washington Bridge, passing the Little Red Lighthouse. (Photo: Courtesy NYSDED)听

It took four years to link up and complete the entire , one of the longest multi-sport pathways in the United States, officially finished in late 2020. The route runs 750 miles across the state of New York, from New York City north to the Canadian border and from Albany west to Buffalo. Three quarters of the trail is on off-road pathways. You can walk on converted rail trails through the Hudson River Valley, stroll beside the historic Erie Canal, or move through wetlands and fields along Adirondack Park and Lake Champlain. Eventually the trail will include a 200-mile greenway across Long Island; construction of the first 25 miles of that section begins this year.

Empire State Trail starts in downtown New York
One end of the New York Empire State Trail is, of course, in Manhattan. (Photo: Courtesy NYSDED)

Pick a section of this largely urban route, which is also popular with bicyclists, and walk it one direction, then hop on a train back to where you started鈥擜mtrak stations are located in 20 towns and cities along the way. Find community with others traveling the trail or seek tips on good trailside lodging or camping from .


Don鈥檛 Miss:听 听More than 200 craft breweries dot the Empire State Trail, in an aggregate known as the . Get a brewery passport and pick up stamps at the places along the way to earn rewards like a T-shirt or cooler bag. In the Hudson Valley, spend a night at (from $195), which has cabins, canvas tents, and a cedar sauna just a short walk from the trail.

2. Best Pilgrimage

El Camino de Santiago, Spain

El Camino de Santiago
A walker on El Camino de Santiago encounters miles of green, interspersed with fields of red poppies, on the way to Santo Domingo de la听Calzada, Spain. (Photo: Pam Ranger Roberts)

Each year, over 300,000 people embark upon sections of this legendary pilgrimage, on a network of trails dating back to pre-medieval times and roadways that vary from cobbled to paved. The most popular route is the Camino Frances, a 500-mile pathway that starts in St. Jean Pied de Port, France, and takes travelers about four to five weeks to walk, passing through the Pyrenees mountains and La Rioja wine region, La Meseta arid range, and through eucalyptus forests into Galicia and Santiago itself. The Camino Portugues, heading up the northern coast of Portugal is another top choice, stretching between 140 and 380 miles depending on your starting point, and crossing through fishing villages such as the UNESCO Heritage Listed cities of Lisbon and Porto. No matter which route you choose, all roads听on the Camino lead to the cathedral of Santiago de Compostela in northern Spain, where the remains of the Apostle Saint James the Great are allegedly buried.

12th century bridge of Ponte Maceira, on the Camino Finisterre, Spain
Between Santiago de Compostela and Finisterre (from Latin terms for 鈥渢he end of the earth鈥�) on the Camino de Finisterre, which takes pilgrims to the Galician Coast of Spain, is the medieval bridge of Ponte Maceira. Legend holds that the bridge collapsed behind the followers of St. James as they fled Roman soldiers. (Photo: Pam Ranger Roberts)

You can walk the Camino year-round鈥攖he most popular season is mid-summer鈥攂ut aim for spring or fall for mild temperatures and fewer crowds, and be aware that many lodges and albergues close in winter ). offers guided walks on the Camino through Portugal and Spain lasting from a week up to 22 days (from $1,436), or, if you鈥檇 rather go on your own, has self-guided options (from $718).

Don鈥檛 Miss: Once you reach Santiago de Compostela, head to the Pilgrim鈥檚 Office for your official stamp of completion, having received a pilgrim鈥檚 passport from your entry point to be stamped along the way. Bagpipes will be playing nearby as you enter the gates of the holy Santiago de Compostela.听The cathedral has a Pilgrim鈥檚 Mass at noon and 7:30 p.m. daily; go early if you want a seat. On , await the ancient ritual of the swinging brass Botafumeiro, or cauldron, which is filled with incense and coal and so heavy eight men are required to move it.

3. Best Waterfront Route

Stockholm Archipelago Trail, Sweden

Stockholm Archipelago Trail, Sweden
The Stockholm Archipelago Trail only opened this past autumn. While traditionally visitors have stayed close to the beautiful capital city of Stockholm and the islands near it, the trail invites them into the outer archipelago. (Photo: Courtesy Henrik Trygg/Visit Sweden)听

Opening in October 2023, the 167-mile connects new and existing pathways across 20 islands in the Stockholm Archipelago, the largest archipelago in Sweden and home to over 30,000 islands. To walk the whole thing, you鈥檒l need to use a series of public ferries and private boat taxis. You can also pick a section and just walk a few islands at a time; each has an average of about nine miles of trails. You鈥檒l travel along gravel roads, forest paths, and beaches, and through remote fishing and farming communities.

Along the way, camp or stay in hotels or B&Bs. offers a seven-day, self-guided journey on the trail (from $1,095) in spring, summer, or fall that includes lodging in locally owned hotels, luggage transfer, and daily routes that max out at about nine miles.

Stockholm Archipelago Trail with island, inlet and lighthouse
Sweden is known for its lighthouses, the oldest dating back to 1689 and originally lit with a real fire. (Photo: Courtesy Roger Borgelid/Visit Sweden)

Don鈥檛 Miss: On the island of Tranholmen, a celebrated chef named David Enmark opens up his home to diners every Friday night鈥�. Or visit the island of Furusund, which contains about five miles of trail and is site of a famed 19th-century summer resort, now a 16-room boutique hotel: the (rooms from $121), which welcomes guests who arrive by boat or on foot.

4. Best for History Buffs

Lycian Way, Turkey

aerial view of Lycian Way, coast of Lycia, southern Turkey
The Lycian Way is a signed footpath curving around the coast of Lycia in southern Turkey. Parts of it date back to the time of the invading Alexander the Great and the Persians, with their Greek influence. Later, Lycia became part of the Roman Empire, as seen in its many ancient Roman ruins. (Photo: Courtesy Montis)

Traversing the rocky Mediterranean coast of southwestern Turkey, the 472-mile Lycian Way winds through the ancient maritime republic known as Lycia. Mountains rise from the turquoise sea as the route follows old roads, footpaths, and mule trails through long-gone civilizations. You鈥檒l pass by lighthouses, beaches, historic sites like Roman amphitheaters and rock tombs, and lagoons over underwater ruins of sunken cities that can be toured by boat.

Most people take on just a section of the Lycian Way. has five- to 14-day guided tours (from $1,187) that include lodging and luggage transfer, or leads seven-day treks (from $995) with an English-speaking guide. Best to do this historical walk in spring or fall, from February to May or from September to November to avoid the high heat of summer.

Lycian Way over the Mediterranean
The Lycian Way takes mainly old Roman roads and mule trails on the southern Mediterranean coast of Turkey. (Photo: Courtesy Montis)听

Don鈥檛 Miss: 罢耻谤办别测鈥檚 illuminates Lycia鈥檚 ancient capital city of Patara after dusk, making it a magical place to explore by night. Best lodging on the trail: the (from $240), built in 2005 on a hillside, has glass windows, viewing hammocks, and saunas overlooking the Aegean Sea.

5. Best for Conservationists

John Muir Way, Scotland

John Muir Way across Scotland
The John Muir Way, a coast-to-coast trail across central Scotland and up into the Highlands, is named for the American wilderness preservationist and author, who was born here. (Photo: Courtesy John Muir Trust)

Not to be confused with California鈥檚 more demanding John Muir Trail, the is a relatively new route (established around 10 years ago) that stretches coast to coast across Muir鈥檚 home country of Scotland. This 134-mile walk begins in the western waterfront town of Helensburgh, where quotes from the famed Scottish-American environmentalist mark a commemorative stone bench. The trek ends around 10 days later in the eastern seaside town of Dunbar, where Muir was born in 1838.

Dirleton Castle, East Lothian, Scotland.
The route passes the ruins of the medieval Dirleton Castle, in the village of Dirleton, East Lothian. The castle welcomes trekkers and is a stamping point for the John Muir Way passport. (Photo: Courtesy John Muir Trust)

On the way, you鈥檒l walk through the cobbled streets of the capital city of Edinburgh, along the shores of , and by the Falkirk Wheel, a rotating boat lift in central Scotland. has self-guided itineraries (from $1,827) for the entire route, including accommodations.


Don鈥檛 Miss: Stay in (from $417), a restored 16th-century castle听just off the trail 20 miles east of Edinburgh. The trail鈥檚 eastern terminus is at Muir鈥檚 birthplace, a humble three-story home in Dunbar that鈥檚 now a historic and free to visit.

6. Best for Self-Reflection

Shikoku Pilgrimage, Japan

pilgrimage island of Shikoku
The Shikoku Temple Pilgrimage is one of the world’s few circular pilgrimages, visiting 88 temples and other sacred sites associated with the venerated Buddhist monk K奴kai, who founded the Shingon school of Japanese Buddhism. (Photo: Courtesy Shikoku Tourism)

This circular walk across the Japanese island of Shikoku visits 88 temples and sacred sites where the Buddhist saint known as K奴kai is thought to have trained in the 9th century. The entire route is about 745 miles鈥攎ostly using roads, but also on select mountain trails鈥攁nd takes around six weeks to walk. Or you can choose just a section.

The traditional approach starts at the first temple, Ry艒zenji, in Tokushima prefecture and proceeds clockwise until you reach the last temple, 艑kuboji, in Kagawa prefecture. Many pilgrims dress in traditional attire, including a white cotton robe, scarf, and straw hat, and carrying a walking stick; they also carry pilgrims鈥� books, to be stamped after worshipping at each temple. leads an eight-day tour of the pilgrimage (from $2,303), where you鈥檒l walk up to eight miles daily with an English-speaking guide, staying at guesthouses and temple lodging.

Don鈥檛 Miss: One of the hardest temples to reach is number 21, Tairyuji, or Temple of the Great Dragon. You can ride the tram to reach this mountaintop temple or hike to the site on a steep three-mile trail through limestone rocks and an ancient cedar forest. There you鈥檒l climb a marble staircase leading into the temple gates and visit a bronze statue of K奴kai meditating.

7. Best for Wildlife Spotting

Yuraygir Coastal Walk, Australia

Yuraygir Coastal Walk, Australia
This 40-mile, point-to-point coastal walk traces the old game trails of Australia’s emus. (Photo: Courtesy Life’s An 国产吃瓜黑料)

The 42-mile point-to-point leads through the beaches and bluffs of Yuraygir National Park in New South Wales. You鈥檒l start in the village of Angourie and follow the sign-posted track, as trails are called in Australia and New Zealand, south to the red-tinted cliffs of Red Rock. Most people take four to five days to do the whole route. Along the way, you鈥檒l spot turtles and whales, swim in the Pacific Ocean, and walk through coastal headlands and the biodiverse Solitary Islands Marine Park.

Spend your first night on the trail camping at the , which is only accessible on foot. Or if you鈥檇 prefer sleeping in a bed, book a guided walk that includes shuttles to trailside properties like (from $234) or (from $125). leads a guided five-day walk of the trail (prices vary according to group size and season) for private groups from November to April that includes luggage delivery, boat and bus transfers, national-park fees, and accommodations. If you鈥檇 rather go it on your own, you can base out of the family-owned in Wooli, and the owners will arrange for lifts to the trail each day (from $499, including lodging and hiker shuttles).

Don鈥檛 Miss: Stop into the beachfront , about halfway through your route, for a sausage roll or pizza. Spend some time at the and estuary, a breeding site for endangered shorebirds including the pied oystercatcher and beach stone-curlew. The trail along the Station Creek estuary is lined with scribbly gum and corkwood trees, and if you鈥檙e lucky, you鈥檒l spot an Australian crane or coastal emu.

8. Most Adventurous

Te Araroa, New Zealand

New-Zealand-Te-Araroa
Te Araroa, opened in 2011, traverses New Zealand’s two main islands, connecting old and new tracks and walkways. Some people chose to cover one island rather than both. (Photo: Courtesy Miles Holden)

New Zealand is known for its stellar tracks, and , also called the Long Pathway, is the country鈥檚 most ambitious trail project yet. It鈥檚 a 1,900-mile journey crossing the length of New Zealand鈥檚 North and South Islands, from Cape Reinga at the north end to Bluff at the southern tip. The trail itself climbs mountain passes, crosses verdant plains, and travels through small cities and remote villages. Roughly 2,000 people walk the whole trail each year, taking between three and six months. Most hikers go north to south, starting around October, which is springtime in New Zealand. If you don鈥檛 have that kind of time, pick a section or a single island; the South Island is considered the more challenging of the two due to its more mountainous terrain.

While this video shows a Te Araroa thru-hike, some choose a section or decide to hike either the North Island or South Island. The South Island is more remote and considered more difficult, the North Island route longer but with more road walking. (Video: 国产吃瓜黑料 TV)

Before you go, ($34) to receive the latest maps and a Te Araroa walker-information packet. Buy a (from $110) for access to over 70 Department of Conservation-managed backcountry huts and campsites along Te Araroa. The trail also has 听to help you plan and navigate, and the trail notes for each section give details on the route and where to stay and resupply. Or you can book a guided 12-day trip with (from $8,595) and let the outfit take care of the logistics, including hotel bookings.

Don鈥檛 Miss: On the North Island, you鈥檒l climb the extinct volcano of Mount Pirongia and descend to the valley below, where you鈥檒l walk by the glowworm-studded , which are worth a stop; you can see the illuminating glowworms in their grottos by boat. On the South Island, spend a night at the 12-bunk, first-come, first-served near Wanaka, which has stunning views from the porch overlooking the Motatapu Valley and a nice swimming hole in the adjacent creek.

9. Best Way to Explore Indigenous Cultures

Vancouver Island Trail, Canada

hiker and misty lake in Strathcona Provincial Park, British Columbia
Moving through Strathcona Provincial Park, the oldest provincial park in British Columbia, Canada, with a furry friend (Photo: Courtesy Ben Giesbrech/Destination BC)

Vancouver Island, British Columbia, is a rugged and densely forested place, and the 500-mile is among the most challenging routes on this list. The trail goes from the capital city of Victoria on the southern end of the island to Cape Scott on the northern tip, crossing rocky beaches and through lush rainforests and territories sacred to First Nations tribes, including the Songhees in the south and the Tlatlasikwala to the north. The trail is broken up into seven distinct sections, from paved pathways through urban areas to logging roads, hiking trails, and rail trails. Each section takes around five to 10 days to walk鈥攐r you can spend two months doing a complete thru-hike. Some sections of the trail are still being completed and not well marked, so plan on some skilled route finding or that鈥檚 better delineated. If you鈥檙e walking the trail northbound, you鈥檒l end in , where the Cape Scott Lighthouse has been shining light for mariners since 1960.听

beach on Vancouver Island Trail, British Columbia, Canada
Exploring the beaches of San Josef Bay in Cape Scott Provincial Park, Vancouver Island Trail, British Columbia, Canada (Photo: Courtesy Shayd Johnson/Destination BC)

Don鈥檛 Miss: Book a cabin or pitch a tent at the First Nations-owned , between the northern towns of Port McNeill and Port Hardy. At the center of Vancouver Island, you鈥檒l walk through Strathcona Provincial Park, British Columbia鈥檚 oldest park, dotted with high-alpine lakes and jagged snow-capped peaks. The , on the outskirts of the park, has eight seasonal campsites and a sauna.

10. Best New Trail

Camino de Costa Rica, Costa Rica

dirt track on E Camino-de Costa Rica
El Camino de Costa Rica, inspired by El Camino de Santiago, goes from the Carribean Coast of Costa Rica on the Atlantic Ocean to the shores of the Pacific. (Photo: Courtesy Asociaci贸n Mar a Mar)

You鈥檒l walk from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the beaches of the Pacific Ocean on the 174-mile-long , or the Costa Rican Way, which was inspired by Spain鈥檚 El Camino de Santiago. This relatively new trail鈥攅stablished in 2018 by the nonprofit Asociaci贸n Mar a Mar鈥攖ravels through coffee plantations and rainforests, over the Continental Divide, and among tiny villages that rarely see tourists. Plan on around 16 days to hike the whole thing.

The trip starts on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, in the town of Barra de Parismina, at the base of Tortuguero National Park, known as a nesting ground for leatherback turtles. It ends in Quepos near Manuel Antonio National Park, filled with coral reefs and white-sand beaches. Stay in guesthouses, campsites, and hotels along the way. You will want to hire a guide, as much of the trail is sparsely marked. leads guided hikes ranging from eight to 16 days (from $1,675) that include meals and stays at local homes and guesthouses.

Don鈥檛 Miss: In the Orosi Valley, stay at the (from $59), which has private casitas and rooms close to the trail. In the town of Orosi, you can visit Iglesia de San Jos茅 Orosi, the oldest church in Costa Rica, dating back to 1743, and its Religious Art Museum, and the .

11. Best Paved Trail

Paul Bunyan State Trail, Minnesota

the tree-lined Paul Bunyan and Blue Ox bike trail, Bemidji, Minnesota
The Paul Bunyan and Blue Ox bike trail, ending in Bemidji, Minnesota, is also great for walking. The route connects the Heartland Trail, the Blue Ox Trail, and the Cuyuna State Trail. (Photo: Courtesy Explore Minnesota)

Most popular with cyclists, the Paul Bunyan State Trail is still a great long walk for those who want a paved, accessible pathway. The route begins at in Brainerd and ends 115 miles later at in Bemidji, home to a famous giant statue of Paul Bunyan and his Blue Ox, Babe. This is the longest continuously paved rail-trail in the country, moderate in grade throughout as it follows the former Burlington Northern Railroad, abandoned in 1983. You can camp at and Lake , or stay in hotels in the various trail towns along the way.

Don鈥檛 Miss: You鈥檒l walk through the town of Hackensack, where every September chainsaw carvers turn hunks of wood into art in the annual Chainsaw Event. The (from $89) in the town of Nisswa has rooms and lakefront cottages steps from the trail on Lower Cullen Lake. In Pequot Lakes, stop into the trailside for a scoop of ice cream.

12. Best for Foodies

Cinque Terra, Italy

the five seaside villages of the Cinque Terre, Italy
Ancient trails connect the five seaside villages of the Cinque Terre on the Italian Riviera, known for fresh seafood dishes, fine wine, and more. (Photo: Courtesy Visit Cinque Terre)

Cinque Terre or 鈥淔ive Lands鈥� refers to five coastal towns鈥擬onterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola, and Riomaggiore鈥攐ver the the Ligurian Sea, all linked by about 75 miles of hiking trails. The most popular route is the Sentiero Azzurro, known as the Blue Trail, which is less than 10 miles and can be done in a day. You can start in Monterosso or Riomaggiore and work your way in either direction, passing through lemon groves and walking staircases directly down to the sea.

For a more expanded tour, consider five- or eight-day self-guided hiking trips in Cinque Terre, where you鈥檒l stay in curated hotels, dine on pizza and gelato from locals鈥� favorite spots, and ride trains to reach new trails each day. If you鈥檙e hiking on your own, be sure to check the for updates on closures (landslides have closed sections of the trail), and grab a (from $7 a day) for access to the two paid hiking trails鈥攆rom Monterosso to Vernazza and from Vernazza to Corniglia鈥攁nd for use of the bus lines within Cinque Terre National Park.

Don鈥檛 Miss: Climb the stairs to Doria Castle, a medieval fortress near the village of Vernazza, to see the remains of one of the oldest surviving towers on the Liguria coast. The five-room guesthouse (from $208) in the Unesco World Heritage Site of Vernazza makes for a good midway stop on your hike.

13. Most Accessible

Cotswold Way, England

The St. James Church, as seen across a meadow in Chipping Campden, a market village established in the 7th century (Photo: Courtesy Cotswolds Tourism)

The is a quintessentially English experience, where you鈥檒l walk from the historic market town of Chipping Campden, once a busy center for traders, to the steps of the Late Medieval church of Bath Abbey, crossing through farmlands, country parks, and beech woodlands. Stop and admire fields full of sculptures or study English Civil War sites. This well-marked 102-mile trail can be traveled in either direction, taking between seven and 10 days. has both guided and self-guided walks (from $1,154) ranging from between seven and 12 nights, where you鈥檒l sleep in limestone cottages and guesthouses.

Don鈥檛 Miss: Climb the hill to the Broadway Tower, an 18th century tower within a 200-acre estate of parkland offering expansive views across the valley; enjoy afternoon tea at the Tower Barn Caf茅 afterward. The trail also passes by , home to some 30 species of endangered butterflies, and , a historic garden filled with seasonal flowers and a lavish mix of Classical, Gothic, and other architecture.

Megan Michelson is an 国产吃瓜黑料 contributing editor and avid traveler who once lived in England for a year and went on a lot of long rambles through the countryside. She recently wrote about trips that may help you live longer and her favorite new backcountry hut in Colorado.

Megan Michelson author
The author, Megan Michelson, out for a walk听 (Photo: Megan Michelson Collection)

The post The 13 Most Magical Long Walks In the World appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

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Christina Lustenberger and Gee Pierrel鈥檚 Latest First Descent Gives Us Chills /outdoor-adventure/snow-sports/new-zealand-steep-skiing-final-frontier/ Thu, 24 Oct 2024 23:10:41 +0000 /?p=2686436 Christina Lustenberger and Gee Pierrel鈥檚 Latest First Descent Gives Us Chills

Christina Lustenberger called her and Gee Pierrel鈥檚 descent of Aoraki (Mount Cook) the most engaging of her entire storied career

The post Christina Lustenberger and Gee Pierrel鈥檚 Latest First Descent Gives Us Chills appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

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Christina Lustenberger and Gee Pierrel鈥檚 Latest First Descent Gives Us Chills

On October 17, professional ski mountaineers Christina “Lusti” Lustenberger and Guillaume “Gee” Pierrel sunk their ice tools into the shoulder of New Zealand’s highest peak, 12,218-foot Aoraki, also called Mount Cook. They ascended the mountain under darkness, climbing over snow, rock, and ice beneath the aurora australis. Clicking into their skis atop their new line at 8 A.M., they spied the full moon and prepared to drop into their third big-mountain ski descent in just four days.

“We went on a bit of a rampage,” said Pierrel.

The line they descended, which they named Hunter’s Moon, after the Kiwi name for the full moon, was the most dangerous and demanding that either had skied. “Every single turn we made on that face had a serious consequence, because of the exposure,” Lusti told 国产吃瓜黑料.听

Lusti and Pierrel met on a North Face team trip in Chamonix this year, and quickly developed a strong ski partnership. Pierrel is an IFMGA guide known for skiing steep and technical descents in his home of Chamonix, but he’s also descended lines in the Himalayas and the Andes. In 2021, he skied a first descent from the summit of Gasherbrum II in Pakistan in alpine style with no supplemental oxygen.

Lusti, meanwhile, has scored several noteworthy accomplishments in 2024, including the first descent of Pakistan’s Great Trango Tower with Jim Morrison and Chantel Astorga on May 9. But the duo’s New Zealand rampage marked new territory for them both.

 

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Lusti first spotted Hunter’s Moon when she entered the Southern Alps on September 28. When Pierrel arrived on October 1, she decided to partner up with him to tackle a few lines.

New Zealand’s Southern Alps is home to famously fickle weather. The range is extremely close to the ocean and storms blow in quickly and often without warning. Lusti and Pierrel had spent the week prior skiing from a hut near Aoraki, but high winds and blowing snow kept them from being able to access their biggest objectives. During that time, they connected with Kiwi skiers Sam Smoothy and Will Rountreei, local legends who have been quietly ticking away extreme skiing in the range for the last few years. Together, the four athletes skied the Bowie Couloir, another line on Aoraki. Smoothy and Rountree’s efforts have brought attention to skiing in the Mount Cook Range, and Lusti and Pierrel credit the New Zealanders for piquing their interest.

“Sam and Will have shed some light on the steep skiing in this range,” said Pierrel. “They’re bringing a new vision to New Zealand and we got on that train.”

Once the snow stopped falling and their weather window opened, Lusti and Pierrel took full advantage of clear conditions. They first climbed and skied the glaciated southeast face of 9,853-foot Mount Dixon. They named their route the 鈥淢ullet Direct,鈥� in honor of the alpinist Mike Gardner, an inspiration to both Lusti and Pierrel. Then, just two days later, they skied the cracked-up east face of 10,856-foot Mount Vancouver. The pair named that first descent 鈥淯ncle Pete,鈥� for Lusti’s uncle, who died a few days later鈥攂ut not before he saw photos of the line they dedicated to him.

On October 17, the duo began climbing Aoraki to ski by far the most demanding line either skier had ever attempted. Lusti and Pierrel climbed the rarely-repeated Jones route on the mountain’s east face, a sustained 55-degree series of ice and rock runnels that ascends from the mouth of the Caroline Glacier to the shoulder of the peak. “Our vision was always to descend this intricate ramp system further skier’s right,” Lusti said. “We started their descent at 9:15 A.M. in unforgiving icy snow conditions. Committed to the exposure, one turn at a time, we pushed each other out of our comfort zones.”

The route up and down Aoraki, the climbing route is labeled in pink and the ski descent is labeled in yellow. (Photo: Christina Lustenberger)

The icy surface required the utmost precision and attention, but Lusti and Pierrel were able to link turns down the entire face, save for one short section of glacier ice near the top that was too firm for their edges. They made a short rappel to navigate that section.

The ramp they skied looked improbable from the glacier floor, and even climbing up the pair of skiers could barely make out that it was skiable. Pierrel had spotted the exit ramp during an aborted attempt on the Jones route the week prior, which allowed the duo to escape the line cleanly on skis without needing to rappel. They backed off on the earlier attempt because the strong winds ripped the snow off the face, leaving bare ice.

But when the storm subsided, the gap of nice weather was longer than Lusti and Pierrel anticipated. That amount of time let them get acquainted with the snow quality and boosted their confidence when the time came to climb and ski Aoraki. “Going back-to-back with the lines like that allowed us to build a really intimate relationship with the snow conditions,” Lusti said. “We were so in tune with how the snow was changing that we were able to step out further each day into steep and dangerous terrain.” By the time the duo听dropped in on Hunter’s Moon, they were able to anticipate some of the surprises the mountain threw at them.

New Zealand’s finicky snowpack added to the descent’s difficulty. Strong winds off the Tasman Sea create an transform the snowpack into an inconsistent and patchy surface. In any one descent, skiers are likely to encounter n茅v茅 ice, refrozen surfaces, and loose, dry powder. “You need to be extremely calculated from turn to turn, constantly anticipating the conditions ahead of you鈥攁nd whether or not you can surmount them with your edges,” Lusti said. ” You’re basically just clinging for your life at every turn.” That intimate knowledge of the snowpack proved paramount to the safety of the descent.

But equally important was the trust that the two built in the process. Lusti was holding the weight of the loss, but Pierrel helped her focus and be present in the mountains. “Having a partner like Gee who trusted what we were doing and who had a complete focus in the vision we were trying to accomplish allowed me to feel confident and push away my distractions,” Lusti said. Reflecting on Hunter’s Moon in particular, Lusti said she was grateful to have such a brilliant partner who pushed her forward when she needed it and was willing to be pushed by her in return.

Pierrel told 国产吃瓜黑料 that he felt lucky to be accompanying Lusti on the peak.听“I’ve been skiing with the best athletes in Chamonix, and Christina was so impressive,” Pierrel said. He described her making turns on tiny ribbons of ice while he was using his ice axe to help him slide down.

To push the envelope of what’s possible in ski mountaineering, the stars have to align. Skiers听need the right snow, the right partner, the right motivation, and even the right luck. “On that day we went, under the full moon, we had this incredible night sky,” Lusti said. “That’s when hard times’ silver linings appear. We were able to find such an incredible flow within our partnership and put down lines that were really special for the people in our community.” Under the full moon, the southern lights, and a sky full of stars, Lusti and Pierrel were in exactly the right place to make skiing history.

Aoraki new zealand skiing
(Photo: Mathurin Vauthier)

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The 11 Best Road Trips in the World /adventure-travel/advice/best-road-trips-in-the-world/ Mon, 15 Apr 2024 11:00:02 +0000 /?p=2664690 The 11 Best Road Trips in the World

There鈥檚 nothing quite like hitting the open road on an epic adventure, especially on these incredible stretches of highway

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The 11 Best Road Trips in the World

I love a good road trip, especially in the mountains of Colorado, where I live. It鈥檚 when I do some of the best creative thinking, and it feels like the possibilities for exploration are endless. Should I hike a fourteener tomorrow? Cross the border into Utah to go mountain biking?

I scoured the globe to put together this list of the most stunning drives you could imagine, from the snowcapped peaks of Chilean Patagonia to the windswept west coast of Ireland. I鈥檝e completed a handful, driven parts of many of them, and the rest are on my bucket list. I also chose these road trips for their proximity to adventure, and include essential details like the best hikes, beaches, and accommodations along the way. Buckle up.

The Dempster Highway to the Arctic Ocean, Canada

A herd of caribou make their way across a snow-covered Dempster Highway in Yukon, Canada.
The Dempster crosses through Porcupine caribou country. The herd numbers 200,000 strong.听(Photo: Courtesy Government of Yukon)

Miles: 550
Road terrain: Mostly gravel
Best time to go: The Dempster Highway is open year-round, but traditional summer festivals in the Arctic towns and the aurora borealis viewing in winter are seasonal highlights.

Truly rugged and remote, this overland expedition traverses dramatic tundra landscapes, boreal forests, and mountain ranges en route to the Arctic Sea. Begin in the gold-rush outpost of Dawson City, Yukon, and load up on supplies鈥攖he unpaved gravel road is a known tire eater, so be sure you have a spare and a four-wheel drive car. From there the heads north through the historic Klondike region, crosses the Arctic Circle, and enters the Northwest Territories, where you鈥檒l have panoramas of what鈥檚 known as the polar Serengeti, a wide-open wilderness teeming with caribou, moose, and grizzlies.

Dempster Highway Canada
It’s just you and vast empty spaces on this highway.听(Photo: Getty/Richard Legner)

Along the way, you鈥檒l pass through Indigenous communities such as Tsiigehtchic, reached by ferry in summer after the snow melts. If you’re traveling during August, you can watch canoe races and listen to traditional music during Tsiigehtchic鈥檚 Canoe Days celebration. By the time you arrive in Inuvik, Canada鈥檚 largest community north of the Arctic Circle, you鈥檒l have logged 457 miles. Pitch your tent or park your teardrop at (from $28), perched on a bluff overlooking the Richardson Mountains and the nation鈥檚 largest river, the Mackenzie.

Pick up the final stretch of the trip in town, the Inuvik鈥揟uktoyaktuk Highway, an 86-mile gravel road that winds past the Pingo Canadian Landmark, a collection of pingo (mounds of earth-covered ice) more than 100 feet high, and ends in the Inuit shorefront hamlet of Tuktoyaktuk.

(Photo: Courtesy Gaia GPS)

Scenic Byway 12, Utah

Highway 12 Utah
Utah’s curvy Highway 12 is a classic Western road trip in some of the wildest terrain in the U.S. (Photo Getty/Doug Meek)

Miles: 122
Road terrain: Paved
Best time to go: Early spring and early fall

This expanse of highway connects Bryce Canyon to , traveling through Dixie National Forest and the northern part of Grand Staircase鈥揈scalante National Monument. The whole thing could be completed in three hours, but given its proximity to so many perfect playgrounds for hiking, paddling, biking, and fishing, I suggest a four-day road trip. Bookended by Panguitch to the west and Torrey to the east, this designated bisects multiple ecosystems,听 from sage flats to slickrock deserts, and sleepy rural communities like Boulder, where you should stop for a meal at . The photo opps are endless, but Powell Point Vista, between the towns of Henrieville and Escalante, affords some of the best views of the area鈥檚 distinct Wasatch Limestone formations. If I could overnight in one place along the way it鈥檇 be , which has a drive-in theater, a pool, and a food truck (from $99).

(Photo: Courtesy Gaia GPS)

The Romantic Road, Germany

Germany鈥檚 Neuschwanstein Castle backed by the foothills of the Alps and, right, another castle, Hohenschwangau
The Romantic Road crosses Bavaria, which is filled with castles. King Ludwig spent his childhood in Hohenschwangau, right, before building and moving into the famous Neuschwanstein, left, in 1884. (Photo: Getty/Education Images)

Miles: 220
Road terrain: Paved
Best time to go: Spring or fall

Germany鈥檚 Romantische Strasse, or Romantic Road, could be the backdrop of a Grimm鈥檚 fairy tale, with its turreted and crenelated castles, red-roofed villages, and lake-dotted countryside in the Alpine foothills. This scenic byway across Bavaria connects the baroque town of W眉rzburg with the pastel-hued town of F眉ssen. The former is home to the Unesco-designated W眉rzburg Residence, one of the nation鈥檚 most opulent palaces, while F眉ssen is five minutes from what many consider the route鈥檚 highlight, King Ludwig鈥檚 , which was the inspiration for the palace in Disney鈥檚 Sleeping Beauty. If you want to stretch your legs, you can tackle the hike to Mount Tegel, located behind the castle, or take the cable car up and explore the trail network at the top.

Along the way you鈥檒l pass plenty of beer gardens鈥攖he riverfront in the hamlet of Landsberg am Lech is a must-stop鈥攖he vineyards of the Franconia wine region (pick up a bottle of dry, white Silvaner), and spend a few hours rejuvenating in the historic spa town of Bad Mergentheim; at the ($150), you can take advantage of the indoor pool, spa, and gardens.

The Explorers Way, Australia

The road runs red across the Red Centre of Australia, with an unforgiving vastness. A kangaroo sign warns oncoming drivers.
Australia’s Red Centre is marked by soil rich in iron oxide, which is striking but generally nutrient-poor. The color is so vibrant that astronauts can see it from space. (Photo: Getty/Nick Brundle Photography)

Miles: 1,864
Road terrain: Paved (and remember, Aussies drive on the left-hand side)
Best time to go: Australia鈥檚 fall, March through May

The ultimate outback odyssey, the is a road trip through Australia鈥檚 Red Centre. Much of the drive follows the Stuart Highway, named after 19th-century explorer John McDouall Stuart, the first European to successfully traverse the continent from south to north. Stuart鈥檚 expedition took nearly a year, but two weeks is ample time to complete the journey from Adelaide in South Australia to Darwin in the Northern Territory.

I highly recommend detours to to stand in awe of the 2,831-foot-high monolith sacred to Aboriginals and to Litchfield National Park, teeming with waterfalls and wildlife like dingo and wallaby. Dedicate at least a day to explore the Aboriginal art galleries of Alice Springs, the Northern Territory鈥檚 second largest city and the approximate midway point of the route. When you reach the Top End, toast your trip with a bush negroni at Willing Distillery in Darwin or celebrate with a bush safari at (from $2,425, all-inclusive), just northwest of Kakadu National Park, home to more than .

Atlantic Road, Norway

A wave crashes up against the Atlantic Road on Norway's west coast.
If James Bond could navigate this road without incident (see video below), so can you, no matter the weather.听(Photo: Getty/Wirestock)

Miles: 22
Road terrain: Narrow, paved
Best time to go: The coast is most dramatic in September and October

Norway has 18 designated national scenic routes, but the fact that the Atlantic Road was selected as the stage for the James Bond film No Time to Die is a testament to its wow-factor beauty. Officially known as , this drive links the village of K氓rv氓g on Aver酶y Island with the fishing village of Bud on the mainland via an archipelago connected by eight low-lying bridges. Few roads bring you so close to the ocean: roll down your window and you鈥檒l likely be kissed by sea mist.

Essential detours include the coastal path at Vevang to see Jan Freuchen鈥檚 鈥�,鈥� a sculpture scattered across the rocks and heath-covered hills, and the glass-walled viewing platform at Askev氓gen, which affords spectacular mountain and ocean vistas. Str酶msholmen Seasport, located between the towns of Kristiansun and Molde, offers scuba diving, fishing excursions, and wildlife safaris on the water. It also has four waterfront cabins that sleep up to ten people (from $55).

The Ring Road, Iceland

The Ring Road approaching a massive glacier in Iceland
Grandeur and geology are two reasons to make your way around the Ring Road, where sites range from massive glaciers, like this one on Hvannadalshn煤kur, to waterfalls, incredible rock formations, and unique beaches. (Photo: Courtesy Jake Stern)

Miles: 820
Road terrain: Mostly paved, with some stretches of gravel
Best time to go: Late spring or early fall

Stretch after stretch of otherworldly landscapes unfold along this , also known as Route 1. It shows off vast lava fields, tumbling waterfalls, spouting glaciers, and bubbling geysers. You鈥檒l want at least seven days to enjoy all the attractions and adventures along the way, and if you do the drive in May, June, or July, you can take advantage of nearly 24 hours of sun.

Most road-trippers start in the capital, Reykjav铆k, the city closest to Keflav铆k International Airport. You can tackle it counterclockwise or clockwise, but if you do the latter first, the scenery crescendos from pretty to jaw-droppingly gorgeous. If there鈥檚 one thing you shouldn鈥檛 miss, it’s a detour to the northern Troll Peninsula, which loops around the headlands past the end of the Skagafj枚r冒ur fjord.

On the southeastern coast of Iceland, take time to explore J枚kuls谩rl贸n, a glacial lagoon studded with icebergs, and nearby Diamond Beach, named for the brilliant chunks of ice that sparkle like gems against its black sands. The geothermal waters of the Blue Lagoon, just 20 minutes from the airport, are the perfect final stop. Or tack on an adventure鈥攎aybe kayak in a glacial lagoon or ride an ATV along the beach鈥攚ith outfitter .

(Photo: Courtesy Gaia GPS)

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Green grass and a winding Cliff Path mark Ireland鈥檚 Cliffs of Moher.
The 700-foot-high Cliffs of Moher are one of the literally biggest and most popular natural attractions of the Wild Atlantic Way, if not all of Ireland. They’re located a little more than an hour鈥檚 drive from Limerick, the closest major city.听(Photo: Getty/Guvden Ozdimer)

Miles: 1,600
Road terrain: Narrow, winding, and paved (you鈥檒l also driving on the left-hand side here)
Best time to go: summer to take advantage of longer day-light hours

One of the longest coastal routes in the world, the Wild Atlantic Way hugs the Emerald Isle鈥檚 rugged and spectacular west coast for miles, from its northern terminus on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal to its southern terminus in the town of Kinsale in County Cork. The route is broken into 14 stages, and you鈥檒l want to budget a minimum of five days to complete it.

There are loads of opportunities to stretch your legs on untouched swaths of beach near soaring sea cliffs. Those at Slieve League jut up 1,972 feet at their highest point; follow the Pilgrim鈥檚 Path from Teelin village 1.5 miles to the tops, and after pop into town for lunch. You鈥檒l have plenty of options, but I highly recommend the award-winning pub (rooms are also available from $54). The iconic Cliffs of Moher, in the lunar-like Burren region, are one of the natural treasures of Ireland, with a five-mile (one-way) coastal walk that connects the charming villages of Liscannor and Doolin.

(Photo: Courtesy Gaia GPS)

On Achill Island, explore Keel Beach, a nearly two-mile stretch of golden sand. When I visited, the waves were pumping and I rented a board and a thick wetsuit from . If the water鈥檚 calm, you can rent a stand-up-paddleboard. If your final destination is County Cork, celebrate with a pint at , a pub in Ballydehob that鈥檚 been run by the same family for a century.

Pacific Coast Scenic Byway, Oregon

The sun shines over the Pacific on the coast of Ecola State Park, Oregon.
There are endless adventures on this road trip, like a stop at Ecola State Park, in northwest Oregon, which encompasses nine miles of coast. You can hike through old-growth forest or up to outlooks for views of the abandoned “Terrible Tilly” lighthouse or a chance sighting of a migrating gray whale. (Photo: Courtesy Chris Keyes)

Miles: 363
Road terrain: Paved
Best time to go: Late spring, early fall, or winter

Most people associate the Pacific Coast Highway, or PCH, with California, but the storied road spans from Canada to Mexico. Some of the best lengths, in my opinion, are in Oregon, where the road skirts virgin beaches, craggy mountains, and rocky coves, through a series of quirky seaside resorts and sleepy fishing villages. You could zip along all of it in 10 to 12 hours, but five days is the better plan, stopping at the many parks and public lands along the route. Ecola State Park (sea stacks, tidepooling, wildlife-watching) and Oregon Dunes Recreation Area (whose sweeping sandy expanses are said to have been the inspiration for 顿耻苍别鈥�s planet Arrakis) are both top of my list.

About 30 miles northwest of the city of Bandon is Cape Arago; this short detour off the byway takes you through the South Slough National Estuarine Reserve, home to more than 150 kinds of birds and . In the town of Coos Bay, I like to overnight at the modern cabins at Bay Point Landing ($235). The next day, you can drive 24 miles east to the remote Golden and Silver Falls State Natural Area and hike 1.4 miles to the top of Golden Falls for an eagle鈥檚-eye view of the cascading waterfall and old-growth firs. Schedule your journey for spring and winter and bring your binocs鈥攜ou can often spot the blows from migrating gray whales as they surface off the coast.

The Garden Route, South Africa

An aerial view of the South Africa鈥檚 Western Cape that takes in the Indian Ocean, Garden Route, and Outeniqua Mountains.
The Garden Route skirts the Indian Ocean for miles, but you can stop in towns like the aptly named Wilderness, just east of George鈥攕ee the map below鈥攆or local activities like kloofing听(canyoneering) or head north the short distance into the Outeniqua Mountains for inland adventures. (Photo: Getty/Dominique de la Croix)

Miles: 124
Road terrain: Paved
Best time to go: June to December, when you can spot whales from shore

This ocean-hugging highway showcases the Western Cape鈥檚 outrageously beautiful beaches, lush forests, national forests, and abundant marine life. Just under two hours鈥� drive from Cape Town, the former fishing village of Hermanus Bay is the gateway for the Garden Route. I always stop here to take advantage of the excellent land-based whale-watching between June and December. Continue three and a half hours east on the N2 highway to the harbor town of Mossel Bay, the route鈥檚 official starting point. Spend some time trekking around before heading out on your drive; my favorite is the 2.5-mile out-and-back trail from Pinnacle Point to Oyster Bay.

, approximately midroute, is a great spot for birdwatching and kayaking and has accommodations that include campsites (from $20), cabins (from $50), and a bed-and-breakfast (from $90). A half-hour farther east is Plettenberg Bay, nicknamed the Saint Tropez of South Africa for its palatial beach homes. Just south is , a nice picnic spot where you can observe seal colonies. Spend a day exploring , which boasts a 50-mile-long shoreline and an interior with 500-year-old trees. Looking to burn off some energy after hours in the car? I suggest the Otter Trail. South Africa鈥檚 oldest hiking trail takes five days to complete and begins near the Garden Route鈥檚 eastern terminus at Storms River rest camp.

(Photo: Courtesy Gaia GPS)

Queenstown to Milford Sound, New Zealand

A van is parked in front of Milford Sound, New Zealand, and is passengers gaze over the waters and iconic Metre Peak.
A view worth stopping for: Milford Sound and iconic 5,511-foot Metre Peak, landmark destinations within Fiordland National Park. Strong currents and cold waters keep most travelers from swimming in the sound, and technical equipment is required to summit the peak, but you can kayak these waters and explore the landscape via the Milford Track. (Photo: Getty/Matthew Micah Wright)

Miles: 180
Road terrain: Paved, two-lane highway
Best time to go: New Zealand鈥檚 fall, March through May, is perfect for hiking

Described by Rudyard Kipling as the 鈥渆ighth wonder of the world,鈥� Milford Sound is big nature on steroids. The drive on the South Island from Queenstown along State Highway 6 (a.k.a. the Southern Scenic Highway) and then State Highway 94 (Milford Sound Highway) will get you there听 in just over four hours, but slow down to marvel at the waterfalls and alpine lakes framed by mountains. Te Anau is the halfway point of the drive and an ideal place to overnight, refuel, and stock up on food as there are no services farther en route to the sound. The lakeside town is also the gateway to the glacier-carved wilderness of and the jumping-off point for the Milford Track, arguably one of New Zealand鈥檚 most famous , so consider tacking on a few extra days.

The Carretera Austral, Chile

A wide, rock-filled river descends from snowcapped peaks in Chile's Ays茅n region.
The Carretera Austral cuts through the sparsely populated yet supremely scenic Ays茅n region, which rewards road-trippers with views of glaciers, fjords, and snowcapped peaks. (Photo: Courtesy Frits Meyst/Mallin Colorado Ecolodge)

Miles: 770
Road terrain: Rugged, pock-marked dirt, requiring four-wheel drive
Best time to go: Austral spring and summer, November to March

Waterfalls tumbling from hanging glaciers. Forests of lengua trees and turquoise lagoons. Ancient marble caves and flamingo-filled lakes. The wild backdrop of Chile鈥檚 Southern Highway (Route 7) is an adventurer鈥檚 fantasy. Also known as the , this road cuts through remote, mountainous wilderness in northern Patagonia. Set aside at least two weeks so you can take time to visit Queulat National Park and Pumal铆n National Park, both located along the route.

Puerto Montt, a bustling town in the Chilean Lake District, is your starting point. It鈥檚 considered Chile鈥檚 seafood capital, so attempt to score a table at Pa Mar Adentro Restaurant and try the caldo curanto, a traditional seafood stew, before starting your journey south.

(Photo: Courtesy Gaia GPS)

Coyhaique, the capital of Chile鈥檚 Ays茅n region, marks the route鈥檚 midway point. Take a day here to trek the trails of Reserva Nacional Coyhaique, home to two beautiful lakes, Los Sapos and Venus. Campsites are available in the Casa Bruja section of the reserve ($5), or continue a couple hours south to听General Carrera Lake and hole up at the family-run听 ($170). The owners serve terrific farm-to-table meals and partner with local guides who lead kayak trips to the Marble Caves and treks across Exploradores Glacier.

The charming wooden exterior and forest surrounds of the Mallin Colorado Ecolodge in the Ays茅n region of Chile
Mallin Colorado Ecolodge can accommodate up to 32 people in cabins and rooms. It offers traditionally prepared meals, as well as nearby hiking trails and options for boating, horseback riding, and park exploration. (Photo: Courtesy Frits Meyst/Mallin Colorado Ecolodge)

Rumbo Sur Hotel ($190), in the isolated terminus town of Villa O鈥橦iggins, is a comfy final base surrounded by hiking trails and glaciers. A 4×4 is recommended, as most of the road is unpaved.

国产吃瓜黑料 travel columnist Jen Murphy hates driving but will happily sit shotgun on any road trip. Last fall she navigated on a weeklong mother-daughter road trip through southwest Colorado.

The author and her mother posing in front of Indigenous ruins at Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, Colorado
The author, left, and her mother on a recent road trip to Canyons of the Ancients National Monument, near the Four Corners听(Photo: Courtesy Jen Murphy)

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Finland Tops Happiest Countries List for the Seventh Time /adventure-travel/news-analysis/happiest-countries-2024/ Wed, 20 Mar 2024 10:30:03 +0000 /?p=2662345 Finland Tops Happiest Countries List for the Seventh Time

Scandinavia dominates the 2024 World Happiness Report, while the U.S. drops out of the top 20. Plus, how to sign up to qualify for Finland's free Happiness Hacks vacation.

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Finland Tops Happiest Countries List for the Seventh Time

For the seventh year running, Finland has been named the happiest country in the world by the United Nations鈥� World Happiness Report.听The Nordic nation has long been known for its sauna culture, but the Finns鈥� enduring well-being goes beyond warm rooms and cold plunges. Some Finns have told the press that their citizens aren鈥檛 exactly happy so much as content with what they have, and that work-life balance and state-funded education, childcare, and health care are crucial to the population鈥檚 overall positive frame of mind.

Finland isn鈥檛 trying to keep their keys to happiness a secret, however. 鈥淭here is an old Finnish proverb that states, 鈥楾he one who has happiness should hide it.鈥欌€� said Heli Jimenez, a marketing director at Finland鈥檚 tourism department in a statement. 鈥淎s the world鈥檚 happiest country since 2018, we have decided to take the old phrase and update it, making our modern motto: 鈥楾he one who has happiness should share it.鈥欌€�

In that spirit, anyone curious to try out the Finnish lifestyle for themselves is invited through April 4 to to visit its capital city for five days in June for 鈥淗elsinki Happiness Hacks鈥� and learn from locals about the daily habits that underpin the Finnish lifestyle. Visit Finland is covering travel expenses for those selected, and trip highlights include restaurant tours, a walk in the woods, and a sauna rave. Winners will be announced on May 2.

Of course, Finland isn鈥檛 the only country in the high ranks of the World Happiness Report this year. Eight of the top ten happiest countries in the world are in Europe, perhaps unsurprisingly, given the region鈥檚 notable health care, stable governments, and wealth: Denmark, Iceland, Sweden, the Netherlands, Norway, Luxembourg, and Switzerland. New to the top ten is Australia, and Israel dropped one spot since 2023 (the bulk of data, collected over three years, happened largely before the conflict between Israel and Gaza began on October 7, 2023).

A list of the top 25 countries in the world in 2024
Ratings听are based on a three-year average of each population鈥檚 assessment of their quality of life. For the full list of 143 countries, check out the most recent听.

The United States, on the other hand, fell from 15th happiest country in 2022 to 23rd in 2023, not so much because Americans are less happy鈥攁ccording to the report,听our country鈥檚 overall score only decreased by one-tenth of a point from last year鈥攂ut because a surge in life satisfaction in other nations vaulted them above us on the list.听(To check out 国产吃瓜黑料鈥檚 recent research on the happiest places to live in the U.S., read our report.) Afghanistan, once again, was the world鈥檚 unhappiest nation.

The UN project uses data from the Gallup World Poll, and considers six key components to overall life satisfaction: wealth, health, personal freedoms, generosity, freedom from corruption, and strength of social ties. The highly anticipated report, which has been released annually on March 20 for more than a decade, marks the International Day of Happiness.

For me and my colleagues at 国产吃瓜黑料, access to the outdoors is a critical piece of the happiness puzzle. Which is why the top six countries I鈥檇 be most excited to visit don’t perfectly align with the UN鈥檚 findings. Sorry, Denmark鈥攜our artificial ski hill is cool, but the slightly less elated people of New Zealand have world-class heli-skiing.

Here are six of the top fifteen happiest countries in the world that I鈥檇 be absolutely overjoyed to visit, along with intel that will spark some ideas for adventure travel there.

Finland (No. 1)

A man and woman on bicycles ride next to a sunflower field in Finland, with a red house in the background.
According to , in 2022, approximately two-thirds of households in Finland owned and used a bicycle. (Photo: Courtesy Juho Kuva/Visit Finland)

If this video of mountain biker Erkki Punttila sailing over to ride the trails of Lemmenjoki National Park doesn鈥檛 make you want to drop everything to travel through Finland鈥檚 northern Lapland, we don鈥檛 know what to tell you.听Actually, we do鈥攃onsider a winter visit to explore its wilderness on skis (or even traverse the entire country), take a stroll through the forested countryside, and snack on some rye bread and fish.

Iceland (No. 3)

Feeling physically and spiritually depleted by long COVID, author and 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor Pam Houston visited Iceland and its eponymous breed of horses for rejuvenation. I won鈥檛 spoil her whole uplifting story of enlightenment, but her trip听did offer Houston joy and a whole lot more.

This little island often makes headlines for volcanic (and seismic) activity, but it鈥檚 also a nature-loving traveler鈥檚 dream. Beaches, mountains, glaciers, hot springs鈥擨celand has a bit of everything. You听 can go full Wim Hof and enjoy scenic (and frigid) cold plunges, opt for a warmer route at beautiful hot springs like the Instagram-famous Blue Lagoon, as well as take in the northern lights, surf Arctic waves, and hike its incredible landscape.

Switzerland (No. 9)

A man with a backpack admires Switzerland鈥檚 Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau peaks at sunset.
According to the report, Switzerland has the 13th-happiest young population in the world (those 30 years old and younger) and the 14th-happiest old populace (those 60 and older). Lithuania and Denmark topped those two categories, respectively. (Photo: Getty Images/Roberto Moiola/Sysaworld)

The Alps are home to mountain towns America and the rest of Europe still aspire to. In the winter, outdoor enthusiasts flock to Zermatt, one of the most iconic ski resorts in the world, while summertime treks are straight out of The Sound of Music.

国产吃瓜黑料 contributor Christopher Solomon recently completed the听Via Valais, a 150-mile trail-running-oriented route in southwest Switzerland that was as spectacular as it was demanding. Travelers who prefer to set a slower pace can take their pick of hut-to-hut routes (don鈥檛 be fooled the nomenclature鈥攖hese so-called huts often resemble alpine chalets and are fully stocked with showers, home-cooked meals and cold beer) that allow you to traverse the gorgeous peaks unencumbered by tents and camping supplies.

New Zealand (No. 11)

New Zealand鈥檚 South Island recently made our list of most exciting travel destinations in 2024, thanks in large part to its many biking and hiking trails through stunning scenery, and an uptick in new accommodations and exciting restaurants. United Airlines鈥� new direct flight from San Francisco to Christchurch is a major perk, too.

I鈥檇 head to Queenstown during the austral winter to get in some skiing, but a summer trek along one of the Great Walks wouldn鈥檛 exactly be a chore, either.

Costa Rica (No. 12)

A woman walks her dog on a Costa Rican beach.
Tourism is one of Costa Rica鈥檚 main sources of income, so both visitors and locals profit from the happiness it brings. (Photo: Getty Images/Westend61)

Costa Rica jumped into the top 15 happiest countries this year from 23rd place in 2023. With all of its outdoor adventures, it鈥檚 certainly a happy place for travelers. Take a surf lesson, hike the Camino de Costa Rica, do some yoga on the beach, see a sloth at a wildlife sanctuary, or just read in the sun for a few hours鈥攖here are plenty of ways to rest and restore in Costa Rica.

Although it鈥檚 one of the most , 国产吃瓜黑料 contributor Jeff Garmire and his partner managed a two-week visit in 2020 for less than $500.

Canada (No. 15)

America鈥檚 northern neighbor has a lot going for it, in terms of life satisfaction generally and outdoor recreation opportunities specifically. I鈥檓 biased toward British Columbia, which has a lot in common with my beloved childhood home of Western Washington. Rocky beaches, rugged mountains, and lush temperate rainforests are abundant, and Vancouver鈥檚 superb dining and arts scene make it the perfect spot to refuel between all the hiking, skiing, surfing, and boating nearby. There鈥檚 enough singletrack to keep even the hardest-charging mountain biker satisfied for years. Here’s the perfect itinerary to take in the scenery along the Sea-to-Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler.

If the Canadian Rockies are more your speed, Banff lives up to the hype and is a great spot to adventure with your kiddos. Farther east, Quebec is forecast to have incredible views of the aurora borealis this year (as are the Northwest Territories, if you鈥檙e looking for an even more remote adventure).

The author outside some colorful buildings in Valpara铆so, Chile, holding on to her suitcase handle.
The author in Valpara铆so, Chile; the nation was ranked 38th on this year鈥檚 list.听(Photo: Courtesy Miyo McGinn)

Miyo McGinn is an assistant editor at 国产吃瓜黑料, and tends to be pretty happy whenever she gets the chance to travel, regardless of the destination. Her next international trip will probably be to Canada, just a few hours鈥� drive from her home in Bozeman, Montana.听

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The 14 Best Wellness Retreats in the World for Active Travelers /adventure-travel/advice/best-wellness-retreats-world/ Mon, 22 Jan 2024 13:00:15 +0000 /?p=2658019 The 14 Best Wellness Retreats in the World for Active Travelers

These aren鈥檛 your typical health retreats. At these 国产吃瓜黑料-approved spots, you can hike, surf, fish, and recharge in nature at some of the most beautiful places on the planet.

The post The 14 Best Wellness Retreats in the World for Active Travelers appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

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The 14 Best Wellness Retreats in the World for Active Travelers

Health and wellness is highly personal. Sometimes our bodies want a challenging mountain trek and a big dose of carbs. Or, after I’ve adventured hard, I might crave a nourishing week of yoga or a few days of planted-based meals and mindfulness sessions, preferably on a beach somewhere. Other times, I long for the support of a like-minded community while exploring a new place.

Whatever your needs, what you’ll find below aren’t your typical . They’re for active people who like to travel in some of the most beautiful places in the world. I chose spots with a variety of price ranges that meet a number of different goals, from hiking in spectacular mountains to surfing perfect swells to chilling out at a zen center. Better yet, I鈥檝e been to many of them and share my personal take on why they鈥檙e the best places to recharge. Here’s to your health. Now get planning.

Aro Ha Wellness Retreat, Glenorchy, New Zealand

Aro Ha wellness retreat in New Zealand
The lodging at Aro Ha虅 looks out on Lake Wakatipu and is an awesome launching pad for adventure on New Zealand’s South Island. (Photo: Aro Ha听Wellness Retreat)

Best For: Hikers who want to explore the Southern Alps

The Experience: The Tolkien-worthy views are breathtaking听at this 21-acre, just outside of Queenstown on the South Island. Sparkling Lake Wakatipu and the snow-capped peaks of New Zealand鈥檚 Southern Alps are on full display from the 20 suites, yoga deck, and outdoor plunge pool of its minimalist lodge. Daily, guided hikes immerse guests in the beauty of the mountains. There are treks for all fitness levels, from mindful walks through towering beech and medicinal Manuka trees to quad-burning climbs of up to 10 miles, including a portion of the famed Routeburn Track. Six-to-eight-day retreats are designed around the concept of rewilding mind, body, and spirit.

Hiking Southern Alps New Zealand
Hiking in the Southern Alps is a bucket list trip, and it’s right out the back door of Aro Ha. (Photo: Aro-Ha听Wellness Retreat)

A typical day starts with a sunrise vinyasa flow class, followed by a bowl of fennel coconut muesli, then a three- to-four hour hike and a well-earned plant-based lunch like veggie Pad Thai. Free time allows for a therapeutic massage or kayak outing before an afternoon workshop in fermentation or journaling. Dinner might be accompanied by a tart cherry and magnesium shot (alcohol and caffeine aren鈥檛 allowed) and all the fresh air and physical exercise guarantees you won鈥檛 have any trouble falling asleep. Aro-Ha虅 bills itself as a mind-body reboot, but it鈥檚 also great conditioning if you want to extend your stay three days and tackle the full 20-mile Routeburn Track.

The Cost: All-inclusive six-day retreats from $4,320

Ojo Caliente Spa and Resort, Ojo Caliente, New Mexico

Ojo Caliente Hot Springs New Mexico
Ojo Caliente’s therapeutic pools soothe muscles after a hike exploring the area. (Photo: Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa)

Best For: Hot spring devotees who love the southwest

The Experience: This located halfway between Abiquiu and Taos is steeped in history and healing. For thousands of years, Northern Pueblo communities made pilgrimages to the area鈥檚 restorative thermal waters. When Ojo Caliente opened in 1868, it was considered the country鈥檚 first health spa. Today, the resort includes a farm-to-table restaurant, suites with kiva fireplaces and vintage trailers, and a spa. But the sulfur-free, therapeutic hot springs are why people come. You can devise a soaking circuit to soothe whatever ails you. A pool of iron-rich water provides an immune boost, while the arsenic spring may help achy muscles. The soda pool promises digestive relief and if you鈥檙e feeling down, the lithia pool is purportedly a natural mood enhancer. There鈥檚 also a mud pool where you can cover your body in purifying clay and new bathhouses with saunas and steam rooms. Drop in for a day soak or create a DIY wellness weekend and join vinyasa flow sessions in the yoga yurt and bike and hike the high-elevation trails right at the resort鈥檚 doorstep. The trailhead for the cottonwood-lined 1.8-mile Bosque Loop is steps from the lobby. Nearby, the Abiquiu Lake Vista Trail system offers sensational views of the 5,200-acre reservoir, Cerro Pedernal mesa, and Georgia O鈥橩eeffe鈥檚 beloved summer home, Ghost Ranch.

The Cost: Rooms from $239 + communal soaking from $45

Euphoria Retreat, Peloponnese, Greece

Euphoria health retreat Greece
From the Euphoria Retreat, guests can trek to Mystra, a Unesco World Heritage Site preserving Byzantine ruins and ancient history. 听(Photo: Euphoria Retreat)

Best For: History buffs who want to sightsee while they sweat

The Experience: Programs at Euphoria combine the physical training of ancient Spartan warriors and the wellness wisdom of Hippocrates, with influences of Taoist philosophy, traditional Chinese medicine, and the latest science-based therapies mixed in. The resembles a medieval village on 90 acres of hills in Mystras, a 13th-century town outside of Sparta in the Peloponnese region of southern Greece. A sprawling four-story spa complex is built around a heated, sphere-shaped pool with an underwater soundtrack of whale songs. All guests have access to the Byzantine hammam (a type of steam bath), salt therapy room, infrared sauna, sensory deprivation pool, and gym. You can also customize your vacation with a la carte treatments, like a detox cupping massage or sign up for a retreat, like the Spartan Spirit of 国产吃瓜黑料. This multi-sport program doubles as a sightseeing tour over three, five, or seven days. Every day you鈥檒l be challenged with two to three hours of physical exercise. You might trek to the 7,890-foot peak of Mount Taygetus mountain or go rock climbing at Lagada, one of the best sports crags in Greece. Meals are customized for each guest based on a test that looks at metabolic markers such as glucose and glutathione, and can feel, well, a bit spartan. We won鈥檛 tell if you hit up one of the nearby tavernas.

The Cost: From $284 per night, including group activities

Blackberry Mountain, Walland, Tennessee

arial view of Blackberry Mountain, Walland, Tennessee
Blackberry Mountain, the sister resort to Blackberry Farm, is perched in the Tennessee mountains near Smoky Mountain National Park. (Photo: Blackberry Mountain)

Best For: Active people who like good food and a tipple of whiskey after a hike

The Experience: Blackberry Mountain鈥檚 deep selection of Pappy Van Winkle bourbon was my first hint that this wasn鈥檛 your typical wellness retreat. The second: I was encouraged to work up an appetite. The spectacular setting makes that easy. Situated 20 minutes from the entrance of Great Smoky Mountains National Park, this 听feels like a private playground, laced with 36 miles of hiking trails and 8 miles of singletrack. You can get after it trail running, bouldering, and mountain biking, then revive your muscles with fascial flossing (a technique that simultaneously elongates and contracts the fascia) at the recovery lab.

a yoga class on a deck at Blackberry Mountain wellness retreat in Tennessee
You can adventure hard or soft here. (Photo: Blackberry Mountain)

Or slow things down with aerial forest yoga followed by spa treatments like candlelight sound bathing and crystal reiki. An on-site art studio encourages guests to flex their creative side with pottery and watercolors. Blackberry Mountain puts a lighter spin on the decadent seasonal Southern cooking of its sister property, culinary mecca Blackberry Farm. I fueled my days with sweet potato oatmeal cakes topped with honey creme fraiche, then rewarded my efforts at night with dishes like hanger steak, smoked carrots and oyster mushrooms, and a sip of whisky. I left feeling like I鈥檇 just spent an energizing weekend at adult summer camp.

The Cost: Rates start at $1,595 per night based on double occupancy and includes meals and unlimited morning fitness classes

Kamalaya, Koh Samui, Thailand

paddleboarding at Kamalaya wellness retreat in Thailand
Guests can paddleboard, kayak, or lounge on the beach while at Kamalaya, which sits on the Gulf of Thailand.听(Photo: Kamalaya Koh Samui)

Best For: Ayurvedic-focussed healing on a stunning island

The Experience: Founded by a former yogi monk and a master of traditional Chinese medicine and Indian Ayurvedic philosophy, this sits on a dreamy slice of jungle shrouded sand. You could come to the island for a beach vacation and book a la carte therapies. But the majority of guests are drawn to the 20-plus programs Kamalaya offers that range from three to 21 days and address everything from gut health to burnout. A team of in-house experts鈥攊ncluding osteopaths and naturopaths, as well as visiting practitioners鈥� administer treatments like Chi Nei Tsang, a Taoist abdominal massage, in treehouse-inspired rooms.

Guilt-free raw chocolate cake made with avocado, dates, and cacao at Kamalaya. Yum. (Photo: Kamalaya Koh Samui)

If you鈥檝e come for the signature detox program, you鈥檒l dine on 鈥嬧€媐lavorful, yet portion-controlled plant-based, low-inflammatory, low-allergenic, and low-glycemic food. Otherwise you can indulge in Thai specialties, like thom kha gai (chicken and coconut soup). All programs have downtime to take advantage of activities, like a half-day cruise aboard a wooden Turkish Ketch along the southern coast.

The Cost: Three-night minimum. Three-night programs start at $1,400, including meals and treatments

Root 国产吃瓜黑料s, Peru + Puget Sound + Banff

Peru Root 国产吃瓜黑料
On Root 国产吃瓜黑料’s nine-day trek in Peru’s Andes mountains, you’ll camp in spectacular settings. (Photo: Root 国产吃瓜黑料s)

Best For: Those seeking outdoor adventure and community

The Experience: A lot of wellness retreats cultivate mindfulness and push us physically, but also emphasizes the importance of being part of a diverse, inclusive community. Domestic and international itineraries combine the knowledge of local guides with the expertise of Root 国产吃瓜黑料s鈥� tour leaders, who include yoga instructors, wilderness therapists, justice advocates, and body positivity coaches. Most trips are capped at 12 people and pre-trip Zoom calls allow participants to bond while post-trip calls keep new friends connected and help reinforce new habits with supportive coaching.

kayaking in the Puget Sound with Root 国产吃瓜黑料s wellness retreat
You might see orcas while kayaking on the Puget Sound in the San Juan Islands. (Photo: Root 国产吃瓜黑料s)

Itinerary highlights for 2024 include:

  • A four-day kayak and low-impact camping expedition around Puget Sound ($2,995) with daily yoga and meditation, locally-sourced food, and possible orca sightings.
  • A challenging nine-day trek in the Andes of Peru ($4,595) that involves five to eight hours of hiking a day, journaling sessions, and camping in local communities.
  • And a six-day backpacking and camping adventure in the rugged Canadian Rockies around Banff ($3,595), where you鈥檒l wild swim and forest bathe.

Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, Nelson, British Columbia

Mountain Health Trek Resort British Columbia
After a morning hike, peace and quiet awaits guests back at the Mountain Trek lodge. (Photo: Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat)

Best For: Mountain lovers who want to recharge in the Canadian Rockies

The Experience: A good wilderness 颅ramble can do wonders for our health. amplifies the benefits by complementing rigorous hikes with holistic healing therapies, lifestyle workshops, and a diet free of processed foods, caffeine, sugar, and alcohol. A team of 40 experts, including nutritionists, naturopaths, and certified forest bathing guides, take care of 15 guests each week. Based out of a timber lodge in B.C.鈥檚 gorgeous Kootenay Range, the daily schedule starts with sunrise yoga, followed by three to four hours of nordic hiking with a break for a picnic lunch. Groups are broken up based on fitness levels and depending on the season, you might trek past meadows of alpine wildflowers or patches of golden larch, and spot bear, moose, or marmots. Back at the lodge, you鈥檒l attend lectures on topics like the art of goal setting and have down time to soak in the hot tub or the natural mineral hot springs just a five-minute walk away. Dinner is at 5:15 p.m. and might feature cedar plank grilled salmon and baby spinach and arugula salad. A post-meal crystal singing bowl session ensures you鈥檒l wind down for a deep sleep.

The Cost: $6,700 a week, all-inclusive

Crestone Mountain Zen Center, Crestone, Colorado

Crestone Mountain Zen Center in Colorado
The zendo where meditation is practiced is in the foothills of the beautiful Sangre de Cristo Mountains. (Photo: Crestone Mountain Zen Center)

Best For: Those craving solitude and quiet

The Experience: When life gets overwhelming, this Zen Buddhist tucked sixty miles south of Salida between the jagged Sangre de Cristo Mountains and Colorado鈥檚 vast San Luis Valley, is the ultimate escape to still the mind and reset. And a visit doesn鈥檛 resign you to a monastic life of 4:30 a.m. wake up calls and marathon meditation sessions. You can create a custom retreat from four days to three months, be it solitude in the wilderness or a quiet, distraction-free space to read, breathe, hike, or regroup. Accommodation options range from a 10-site campground and a yurt to simple cabins and a five-room guest house. Stays include three garden-grown vegetarian meals per day and guests are welcome to join residents in group meditation. It鈥檚 also a great base if you鈥檙e craving some contemplative solo adventure time. The campus is surrounded by 240 trail-laced acres of pi帽on pine and juniper forest and is at the doorstep of some of Colorado鈥檚 most majestic hikes, like the Spanish Peak Trail and Kit Carson Peak, as well as natural hot springs.

The Cost: Starting at $75 a day for camping

SHA Wellness Clinic, Alicante, Spain + Riviera Maya, Mexico

Sha Wellness Mexico
On January 26th, SHA will open its second location in the beach town of Costa Mujeres, Mexico, above. (Photo: Sha Wellness Clinic)

Best For: Those looking for a total reboot

The Experience: This is in the middle of Spain鈥檚 Sierra Helada Natural Park. Of every 100 guests who arrive, more than half are repeat visitors who consider this a health check up that doubles as a vacation. SHA鈥檚 sleek, white-washed design and cabana-lined, rooftop infinity pool could be mistaken for a fancy seaside resort in the Mediterranean. But the real draw is a tried-and-true holistic approach to biomedicine backed by a team of 30-some full-time doctors and specialists who work in partnership with Harvard Medical School and NASA. Personalized health programs range from four to 21 days and address nine areas, including nutrition, cognitive stimulation, and physical performance. Diagnostic tests measure everything from nervous system activity to melatonin biorhythms. Based on results, you鈥檙e prescribed a routine that might include sound therapy with Tibetan singing bowls, a photobiomodulation session where you wear a helmet of LED infrared lights to stimulate cell repair, and a daily visit to the hydrotherapy circuit where you鈥檒l rotate through the sauna, cold plunge, Roman and Turkish baths, and therapeutic water jets. Customized meals are inspired by Japanese and Mediterranean culinary traditions, and SHA鈥檚 Healthy Living Academy offers cooking classes, as well as workshops on meditation and fitness coaching, to send you home with healthy habits. On January 26th, SHA will open its second outpost in the beach town of Costa Mujeres, Mexico, with a sea-to-table culinary concept and activities like swimming in cenotes and scuba diving in the large coral reef in the Americas.

The Cost: Four-day program, all-inclusive at SHA Wellness Clinic Spain from $7,796 and at SHA Wellness Mexico from $5,770

Eleven Deplar Farm Live Well Retreat, Troll Peninsula, Iceland

Eleven Deplar Farm Live Well Retreat, Iceland
If you’re lucky, you’ll get a spectacular Northern Lights display while you’re staying at Deplar Farm. (Photo: Eleven Deplar Farm)

Best For: A bucket list splurge packed with adventure and relaxation

The Experience: 国产吃瓜黑料 collective Eleven is known for its high-thrill experiences. But the company鈥檚 new 听bring your body back to baseline with a float tank and yoga nidra sessions after the adrenaline. Deplar Farm, a remote 13-room lodge with floor-to-ceiling windows framing craggy peaks, is the perfect setting for transformation. At a visit here last winter, I braved the extreme elements on Icelandic horseback expeditions, Arctic surf missions, and cross-country ski outings to a silent lunch in a cozy cabin.

scounting for fish above waterfalls at Deplar Farm Iceland
Scouting for trout and fly fishing are on the adventure menu at Deplar Farm. (Photo: Eleven Deplar Farm)

Back in the comfort of the lodge, I reset my nervous system with guided breathwork, sound baths, and a Viking sauna ritual that involved alternating between sweating in what looked like a hobbit house, then dunking in the cold plunge. Nourishing meals highlighted Icelandic ingredients in dishes like wolf fish with braised cauliflower puree and deconstructed skyr cake with almond crumble. At night, I鈥檇 watch for the Northern Lights from the geothermally-heated saltwater pool and would lull myself into a meditative state.

The Cost: Four-night retreat from $11,000

The Ultimate Costa Rica Wellness Retreats

A hotspot for wellness and longevity鈥攖he country’s Nicoya Peninsula is one of the world鈥檚 blue zones, a place people regularly live past the age of 100鈥擨 couldn’t leave Costa Rica off this list. Here are four more incredible trips that will leave you re-energized.

Surf Synergy

Best For: Surfers who crave personal instruction

Costa Rica Surf Synergy
There are six nearby beaches at Surf Synergy in Costa Rica and one of them is bound to have a wave for you.听(Photo: Surf Synergy)

The Experience: This in the beach town of Jac贸 was co-founded by Marcel Oliveira, Costa Rica鈥檚 reigning national SUP champ. Week-long one-on-one surf and SUP immersions include twice-weekly massages, ice baths, daily yoga, breathwork training, and healthy meals featuring ingredients from the on-site permaculture garden. With six beaches within easy reach, programs can be tailored to all experience levels and coaches provide video analysis that breaks down your technique.

The Cost: Seven nights, all-inclusive from $2,765

Hike Coast to Coast Along el Camino de Costa Rica

Hiking coast to coast in Costa Rica
The author Jen Murphy hiking coast to coast in Costa Rica. (Photo: Jen Murphy)

Best For: Hikers who like to explore

The Experience: I thought all of Costa Rica had been discovered until I trekked el Camino de Costa Rica, a 174-mile trail stretching between the Caribbean and the Pacific. Its 16 stages highlight rural communities, an Indigenous territory, and rarely visited parks and nature reserves. During my hike with I spotted an insane amount of wildlife, from glass-winged butterflies to two-toed sloth and racoon-like coati, dined in the homes of welcoming locals, and overnighted at simple hot springs hotels and low-frills eco-resorts. Be warned, this isn鈥檛 a walk in the park. Each stage averages four to 24 miles and the trail contains some serious elevation gain and requires a few river crossings.

The Cost: 16-day trips on the Camino de Costa Rica with Urri Trek from $1,950

Blue Osa Yoga Retreat, Osa Peninsula

Costa Rica Yoga Blue Osa
The view from the yoga studio at Blue Osa is ridiculously serene.听 (Photo: Blue Osa)

Best For: Yogis who love the beach

This solar-powered in the southwest province of Punta Arenas is steps from a quiet stretch of sand. You can customize your own wellness vacation (beach yoga, a coconut body scrub at the spa, a day-trip to Corcovado National Park) or book a structured retreat. The Best of Costa Rica program is packed with yoga sessions but also takes groups off property on mangrove kayak tours, hikes to waterfalls, and birdwatching. Communal meals are a highlight (there鈥檚 even a Blue Osa cookbook) and showcase produce from the lodge鈥檚 on-site organic garden and local farmers. Start the day with Costa Rican coffee and tropical fruits, midday, refuel with a vegan chimichurri sweet potato bowl, and at night, feast on house-made rosemary focaccia and pesto pasta.

The Cost:听$1,440 for a four-night, all-inclusive retreat

Surf with Amigas

Surf With Amigas Costa Rica
The waves on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula are the perfect place to learn how to surf.听(Photo: Lena Hentschel)

Best For: Solo surfers looking to make new friends

The Experience: This founded by former pro Holly Beck runs trips around the globe, but Costa Rica is hands down the most popular destination thanks to the variety of surf and pura vida vibes. The week-long, women鈥檚-only Northern Costa Rica Surf & Yoga itinerary is perfect for both beginners and shortboard shredders. Your hotel, located 40 minutes outside of Tamarindo, sits on a long sandy beach known for super consistent waves that break both right and left. Daily yoga classes help revive paddle-weary muscles and if the surf isn鈥檛 up, you鈥檒l tour local farms, go on horseback rides, and visit national parks.

The Cost: From $2,400, all-inclusive

国产吃瓜黑料 correspondent Jen Murphy is constantly on the road finding the best places to adventure. Her next stop? Surf Synergy in Costa Rica to work on her surfing skills.听

Blackberry Mountain
Murphy mountain biking at Blackberry Mountain in Tennessee (Photo: Jen Murphy)

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Watch This Year鈥檚 Northern Lights Here. They鈥檒l Be the Most Dazzling in Decades. /adventure-travel/destinations/best-places-northern-lights-world/ Wed, 10 Jan 2024 11:45:55 +0000 /?p=2657128 Watch This Year鈥檚 Northern Lights Here. They鈥檒l Be the Most Dazzling in Decades.

Our aurora-chasing author (who shot this photo) knows just where to head. Here are the destinations expected to put on the show of a lifetime this year.

The post Watch This Year鈥檚 Northern Lights Here. They鈥檒l Be the Most Dazzling in Decades. appeared first on 国产吃瓜黑料 Online.

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Watch This Year鈥檚 Northern Lights Here. They鈥檒l Be the Most Dazzling in Decades.

Eight hours into an incredible show of jaw-dropping northern lights, the fatigue started to hit. What began as a calm evening鈥攎e and the resident sheepdogs of the admiring the last sunset of my solo trip through south Greenland鈥攈ad morphed into an all-night aurora borealis bonanza that kept me on my feet, my eyes on the sky.

I raced around the property grounds working my two tripods, hoping to photograph every shifting iteration of the intensifying lights: violet, lime, and cobalt ribbons reflecting off the fjord waters, an explosion of green tie-dye above the adjacent farm, and an eerie red glow enveloping the mountains I鈥檇 just hiked. By the time I finally looked at my phone, it was 4:30 A.M.鈥擨 was exhausted, but it was worth it.

For years I鈥檝e chased auroras around the world, from Norway to Michigan, and have 50-plus successful sky-swirl nights beneath my belt鈥攊ncluding a string of seven kaleidoscopic nights of auroras in Greenland before my Ilungujuuk stay. Yet this particular night in September 2023 was different. The colorful pillars danced and pulsed, then flickered overhead like lightning, electrifying the heavens from dusk to dawn. It was the most surreal display I鈥檝e ever seen.

But in 2024, experts predict the northern lights will get even wilder.

Get Ready for a Spike in Auroral Activity

The northern lights with a rainbow of hues above Greenland
Scientists predict that more auroral shows like these above Greenland are likely this year. (Photo: Stephanie Vermillion)

Auroras are generated when storms on the sun鈥檚 surface blast particle-packed winds through the solar system. Although earth鈥檚 magnetic field protects us from most solar winds, some particles sneak through, and as they slam into our atmosphere, they create the crayon box of colors I saw in Greenland. Each hue is caused by a different interaction with gases鈥攇reen (the most common) from oxygen, blues and purples from nitrogen, and red (rarely seen) from less concentrated oxygen at higher altitudes. During strong displays, the lights can mix like paint, creating pink, yellow, and orange pillars.

Last year鈥檚 auroral colors were a mere preview of what鈥檚 to come. Over the next ten months, the intensity and frequency of solar storms are expected to peak鈥攁 period that happens roughly every 11 years known as solar maximum. According to the , between now and October, Solar Cycle 25 (which began in 2019 and will run until 2030) could produce the strongest and most dazzling aurora displays we鈥檝e seen in decades.

That means there鈥檚 no time like the present to make your bucket-list aurora trip a reality. I鈥檝e compiled some of the best and most geographically diverse spots to see brilliant displays of both the northern and southern lights, along with details on how to chase them, where to stay, and unique tours that take in the lights. All of these destinations lie within, or just outside, the auroral oval鈥攁 doughnut-shape ring above the geomagnetic north and south poles where more activity happens. Which is exactly what you want.

The Best Places to See the Northern Lights

South Greenland

Swirls of green northern lights above the waterfront town of Qaqortoq, Greenland
An听ethereal display of green northern lights tinged with yellow and pink听above Qaqortoq, Greenland听(Photo: Stephanie Vermillion)

Located within the auroral oval, south Greenland sees little to no light pollution, and its saw-toothed peaks and iceberg-filled fjords make for incredible silhouettes against the glow. The best time to view the lights dancing here is from late August to April (though the spectacle technically still happens outside of those months, you won鈥檛 see them in the summer due to the midnight sun in Greenland, and the rest of the Arctic). Fly into Narsarsuaq Airport via Reykjav铆k, Iceland, or Copenhagen, Denmark, then head to the region鈥檚 largest town, Qaqortoq (population 3,000) for a guided chase with , run by two Inuit sisters. I recommend hiking the blaze-marked paths and gravel roads up into the mountains, home to among herds of sheep, before heading back to your base at a property, like Illunnguujuk (from $53), to enjoy the Lite Brite nightscapes.

Lofoten Islands, Norway

A stand-up paddleboarder plys water green with the reflection of an auroral sky
Stand-up听paddleboarding (with a thick wetsuit) in the sea surrounding Norway鈥檚听Lofoten Islands is a unique way to appreciate the auroras.听(Photo: Olivier Morin/Getty)

The ice-carved fjords and jagged peaks of Norway鈥檚 Lofoten Islands are also smack-dab within the auroral oval. The archipelago is a popular summer destination for hiking, climbing, and fishing, but the spectacular auroras happen, thankfully, in the off-season months after the crowds have gone home. For a particularly unique Lofoten experience, go aurora-hunting via horseback on a sandy (or snow-dusted) beach with outfitter , sail beneath the spectacle with , or book a night in one of the historic fishing cottages (from $154) to watch the green lights sashay over the sea鈥攕omething that the cottages boast is possible more than 180 days a year.

Northwest Territories, Canada

Weather permitting, you can watch the northern lights in the Northwest Territories up to 240 nights annually, according to this northern province鈥檚 tourism board. With tundra and spruce and birch forests, as well as Canada鈥檚 largest reindeer herd, this destination provides quite the backdrop. See the show by dogsled with , an Indigenous-run and family-owned business based in Yellowknife. Or head to nearby for an evening tour complete with cultural storytelling and a stay in a cozy lakeside tepee (hotel packages available from $527 for two nights). For even more of a treat, travel above the Arctic Circle to Inuvik for a , replete with reindeer-watching, snowmobiling, and aurora hunting ($4,395).

Iceland

Cool-hued northern lights shine down on the Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, Iceland
The Seljalandsfoss Waterfall, one of south Iceland鈥檚 major attractions, drops 200 feet. Seeing it under the northern lights makes the experience that much more stunning.听(Photo: Stephanie Vermillion)

I tell many first-time aurora hunters to try Iceland. It鈥檚 easily reached, very navigable, daytime adventures abound, and, thanks to minimal light pollution, you can spot the streaks just about everywhere鈥擨鈥檝e seen them above waterfalls, beaches, and even over the capital city of Reykjav铆k. But my favorite Iceland aurora perch is a hot spring. You鈥檒l find naturally heated pools (known as hot pots), all over the country. I like the (from $283), a collection of cabins with a central soaking pool on the Snaefellsnes peninsula, home to Kirkjufell, a small mountain shaped like a sorcerer鈥檚 hat that makes for a听. Aurora chasing at (from $110) in the untamed Westfjords is another one of my favorites. You can soak beneath the aurora swirls or enjoy the lights among its resident horses.

Fairbanks, Alaska

Two swirling green bands of aurora over Aurora Borealis Lodge in Fairbanks, Alaska
It鈥檚 electric! Snakes of vibrant yellow and green dance over the Aurora Borealis Lodge, north of Fairbanks, Alaska.听(Photo: Courtesy Mok Kumagai/Aurora Borealis Lodge)

For U.S.-based aurora hunting, it鈥檚 tough to top the boreal forest surrounding Fairbanks, which promises impressive northern-lights odds. Explore Fairbanks says that anyone who hunts for the spectacle for at least three nights during the August-to-April aurora season has a 90 percent chance of success. The local offers a dinner and dogsled experience that takes in the nightly auroras, or drive two hours south to mush in Denali鈥檚 shadow with . For a snowshoe adventure beneath the lights, the Fairbanks outfitter offers trips听along six miles of trails north of town. And an hour east of Fairbanks, aurora hunting from the is a popular pick鈥攜ou can soak from a geothermal pool while the colorful lights riot above (from $180).

Abisko National Park, Swedish Lapland

An auroral rainbow crosses the sky above a snow-covered hilly landscape in Sweden
Chase the rainbow: the aurora borealis seen from the Aurora Sky Station in Sweden鈥檚 Abisko National Park听(Photo: Arctic-Images/Getty)

A unique weather phenomenon makes Abisko National Park one of the world鈥檚 top aurora-hunting locales. While the northern lights are active throughout the auroral oval most nights, weather鈥攑articularly cloud cover鈥攄etermines if chasers will see them or not. That鈥檚 where Abisko鈥檚 鈥渂lue hole鈥� comes into play: according to the , a stretch of sky above the park stays clear regardless of the surrounding conditions, something attributed to wind direction and altitude. You can make the most of this meteorological marvel at the park鈥檚 , a viewing center set at 3,000 feet elevation and accessed via a 1.2-mile-long chairlift. Come for the lights, but stay for the station鈥檚 , where glass ceilings let you enjoy a taste of Lapland without missing the night-sky entertainment. The best time for lights chasing in this area is mid-November to mid-March.

Northern Minnesota

A display of bright yellow, green and pink northern lights above the horizon of Lake Superior
A popping swath of northern lights above Lake Superior offers moments literal reflection.听(Photo: Stephanie Vermillion)

While many of the best northern lights destinations sit within the auroral oval, you don鈥檛 have to travel to the ends of the earth鈥攐r even out of the contiguous U.S.鈥攖o see them. In fact, you can enjoy them from many听national parks. The auroral oval鈥檚 path tilts particularly in favor of Great Lakes escapes like northern Minnesota, but to see the aurora this far south, you鈥檒l need a strong solar storm, minimal light pollution, and a clear view to the northern horizon (like a lake) because the distance will make the lights appear closer to the horizon. I suggest scouting from the lake-abundant Voyageurs National Park or the wilds of Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness鈥攂oth were recognized by DarkSky International as outstanding dark-sky spaces. To keep tabs on aurora activity and get involved with locals in the know, join the Facebook group , whose members share updates on the northern lights regularly.

The Best Places to See the Southern Lights

Stewart Island, New Zealand

The silhouette of a person standing on a hilltop, arms outstretched and head tilted up, watching a sky green with auroras
Pale green is the most common aurora color, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. (Photo: Stephanie Vermillion)

The aurora borealis gets all the buzz, but the Southern Hemisphere鈥檚 aurora australis鈥攂etter known as the southern lights鈥攁re worth chasing, too. For that, head to Stewart Island, which earned DarkSky International鈥檚 Dark Sky Sanctuary status in 2019. More than 85 percent of the island, located 16 miles south of the South Island and accessed via an hourlong ferry, is a national park, with 170 miles of hiking trails, including the Rakiura Track, one of New Zealand鈥檚 Great Walks, making this one of the more adventurous ways to enjoy the lights. Like Minnesota, Stewart Island isn鈥檛 usually in the auroral oval, which means you鈥檒l need a strong solar storm to see any activity here. Unlike Minnesota, you鈥檒l have to look southward to spot them.

Tasmania, Australia

A couple in silhouette walk a beach; the waves are blue with bioluminescence and the horizon is yellow and pink with the southern lights
Bioluminescence combined with the southern lights鈥攕een here in Tasmania, Australia鈥攊s a rare natural phenomenon. (Photo: James Stone/Chasing Light/Getty)

Tasmania听is another hub for aurora australis hunters. Margaret Sonnemann, author of The Aurora Chaser鈥檚 Handbook, says this island state is better positioned for sightings than just about anywhere in the Southern Hemisphere outside of Antarctica (which is nearly unreachable for tourists during aurora season). Its rugged peaks, ancient rainforests, and sandy shores only add to the auroral awe. Since Tasmania, like Stewart Island, doesn鈥檛 experience the midnight sun, the aurora is visible year-round鈥攑ending the weather, of course. Popular sky-watching spots include Goat Bluff lookout and Carlton Beach, or book a stay at (from $93), a lakeside base for rainforest bushwalks by day and celestial gazing at night. You can also have an awesome experience at Taroona Beach, admiring two twilight marvels鈥攁uroras and bioluminescence鈥攄uring the warm summer months.

Stephanie Vermillion, adventure travel journalist, in a field outside Reykjavik, Iceland
The author outside Reykjav铆k, Iceland听(Photo: Courtesy Jessica Cohen-Kiraly)

Journalist and photographer Stephanie Vermillion covers adventure travel and all things astrotourism, from eclipse chasing and meteor showers to her personal obsession: auroras. She hopes to check off another astro-bucket-list topper鈥攕eeing the southern lights鈥攄uring a trip to New Zealand鈥檚 South Island this year.听

Want more of 国产吃瓜黑料鈥檚 award-winning travel coverage? .

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We鈥檙e Headed to These 国产吃瓜黑料 Destinations This Fall听 /adventure-travel/advice/where-to-travel-this-fall/ Sun, 27 Aug 2023 11:00:04 +0000 /?p=2643731 We鈥檙e Headed to These 国产吃瓜黑料 Destinations This Fall听

With sunny skies and cooler temperatures,听fewer crowds, and off-season deals to be had, fall may be our favorite getaway season. Here where our editors are headed.

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We鈥檙e Headed to These 国产吃瓜黑料 Destinations This Fall听

Put off by summer鈥檚 heat, crowds, and high prices, many of our editors pushed their big travel plans to fall this year. They鈥檙e also not explicitly headed to do any leaf-peeping but rather are intent on bagging a peak or two in the Berkshires, surfing the swell in Maine, forest-bathing in Japan, and giving van life a go in New Zealand (where it will soon be spring), among other active pursuits.听One editor was so excited about her upcoming trip, she guiltily confessed she’d been 鈥渢rying not to wish away the summer.鈥� Here’s what’s in the works.

Keeping the Love Alive in Savannah and Surrounds

A man motors an outrigger canoe across the swampy waters of Tybee Island
Moon River, Tybee Island (Getty Images/John Elk)

My husband and I willhead to Savannah, Georgia, to celebrate our first anniversary. I was skeptical when he suggested it鈥擲avannah is flat, and I imagined climbing a massive mountain near our home in Taos, New Mexico鈥攂ut after Google revealed a shocking amount of wilderness nearby, I got on board. Here鈥檚 why I鈥檓 stoked: We鈥檒l post up at the downtown Kimpton Brice Hotel (a sweet splurge for us, as we’re听chronic campers), where we can walk to several city parks and the Savannah River. The hotel offers free bikes, so we plan to cruise the cobblestone streets and then hit Truman Linear Park Trail and Lake Mayer Park, stopping for fresh seafood听(a luxury we don鈥檛 have in the high desert). On the day of our anniversary, we鈥檒l ferry to Tybee Island, a paddling mecca just 18 miles east. We鈥檒l rent kayaks from , scope out sheltered waters between the 1,200 or so surrounding barrier islands, and picnic from the boats before renewing our vows at the Tybee Island Lighthouse. Then it鈥檚 back to town and the bar to wrap up the trip. One of the many reasons I married this wonderful man is because he plans unexpected adventures that wouldn鈥檛 otherwise be on my radar. 鈥擯atty Hodapp, 国产吃瓜黑料 Online interim digital director

Freewheeling on New Zealand鈥檚 South Island

Three hikers top out on a high section of New Zealand's Kepler Track, with incredible views of the surrounding peaks
The Kepler Track, a 37-mile loop in Fiordland National Park, is located about 100 miles southwest of Queenstown. 听(Courtesy Jon Dorn)

My son is studying in New Zealand, so I鈥檓 inspired to do something I’ve always dreamed of: live the van life, if only for a while. I’m headed to the South Island in mid-October and have reserved a sweet rig from for about a month. Other than that, my plans are loosey-goosey. I鈥檒l road-trip around in search of the best 鈥渇reedom-camping鈥� spots: some 500 locations that are free but offer basic amenities.听My friend Patrice La Vigne wrote a book about her exploration of the country, 听and听I鈥檝e already cherry-picked some of her favorite spots, including the Queen Charlotte Track and the Nelson Lakes and Aoraki/Mount Cook National Parks, to name a few. I’ll hang in Wanaka for a few days鈥攁 supercool mountain town, kind of like the Chamonix of New Zealand鈥攁nd I鈥檒l check out Queenstown and probably indulge in a or two (according to Patrice, the city鈥檚听iconic fast-food joint is not to be missed). When my son finishes up his semester in mid-November, I’ll pick him up in Christchurch and we’ll hit the Kepler Track, one of the country鈥檚 ten Great Walks. 鈥擪ristin Hostetter, 国产吃瓜黑料 Inc. head of sustainability and contributing editor

Getting Off the Tourist Track in Japan

Japan has long been on my bucket list, but I didn鈥檛 want to take a group tour and was afraid the language barrier would prevent me from adequately planning a trip myself. How wrong I was鈥攜ou don鈥檛, in fact, need a travel agent or tour operator to build your own trip to this country, but you will need time for research. In mid-October, my brother and I are flying into Osaka and will stay two nights at a ryokan in Kyoto, then fly south to the island of Yakushima, a Unesco World Heritage site whose ancient cedar forests set the scene for Studio Ghibli鈥檚 film Princess Mononoke. (I highly recommend the outfitter , whose staff promptly emailed responses and booked our accommodations, a guided hike and stand-up-paddleboard river tour, and a rental car). After roaming around there, we鈥檒l hop an hourlong flight to the city of Fukuoka to pick up another rental car,听and then off we’ll drive to the onsen community of Kurokawa, two hours southeast, for forest bathing while we soak听in various hot springs. I鈥檓 looking forward to wearing the yukata (a casual kimono) as we walk from bathhouse to bathhouse. We鈥檒l return to Fukuoka, board the bullet train to Osaka (a limited-service that runs this route is just the cutest), and spend our last days hiking two sections of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail. Props to the tourism bureau that maintains this for English speakers: it answered all of our questions, on baggage transfer, nightly stays, bus service, altitude gain and loss, and estimated hiking duration. Aside from feeling anxious about driving on the opposite side of the road, and possibly getting lost, I鈥檓 fully confident that this is going to be a bucket-list adventure for the books. 鈥擳asha Zemke, 国产吃瓜黑料听magazine associate managing editor

Running the Desert in Perfect Weather in Joshua Tree

A woman on a boulder looking over the vista of Joshua Tree National Park
Joshua Tree National Park (Photo: Getty Images/Peathegee Inc)

I’m heading to Joshua Tree National Park to race a half marathon with my mom in November. Fall is a great time to visit this national park in California, as the weather cools down from the scorching summer heat, so you can enjoy exploring without feeling like you’re melting. And while the nights can get a little chilly, it鈥檚 nothing a cozy jacket can’t handle. We鈥檝e chosen to stay at , a chic and modern cluster of spacious Airstream campers and cabins. A hike around the park is a must! You’ll come across crazy Joshua trees that look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book, cool rock formations, and even hidden oases that you won’t believe exist in the desert. (I like the , a three-mile out-and-back.) Oh, and the sunsets here are mind-blowing. Joshua Tree is also a hub for bouldering, with loads of granite formations to climb, no matter your skill level. In town, don’t miss the Joshua Tree Coffee Company, just a block from the park鈥檚 visitor center. Its espresso con panna will wake you right up. 鈥擲ierra Shafer, Ski magazine editor in chief

Hiking the Hills over a Wedding Weekend in Williamstown

The cathedral of historic Williamstown, Massachusetts rises above a mountain covered in red, yellow, and green fall foliage
Historic Williamstown in the fall (Photo: Courtesy DestinationWilliamstown)

Over Labor Day, my husband, Mike, and I will travel to Williamstown, in northwestern Massachusetts, for the wedding of a dear former coworker. It will be a reunion, with others from the old crew at Big Stone Publishing coming in from London, Las Vegas, and Asheville, North Carolina. Mike and I will fly into Albany, New York, 40 miles west, on Friday. I always figure that you can hike鈥攐r walk, in a city or a park鈥攊n most places, even if a trip is not recreational. Of course, it helps that we鈥檙e headed to a hiking haven like the Berkshires. For Saturday I鈥檝e pegged , a three-to-four-mile out-and-back up 1,893-foot Pine Cobble Mountain, where we can look out over historic Williamstown (once Mohican hunting grounds, and settled by others in 1749) and the Hoosic River valley. I hope to rally friends! Before the ceremony, we have a window where we could walk around the Clark Art Institute, with its marble gallery, backdrop of rolling green hills, and 140 acres of wooded trails. Mike also wants to head up 3,491-foot Mount Greylock, the highest peak in the state, boasting a 90-mile view; for Greylock, we could fit in the 2.6-mile before flying home late Monday afternoon (the 5.5-mile also looks great but would necessitate way too early a start). And we might as well pack climbing shoes in case of available bouldering. (I wonder if we could pass as students at the Williams College wall?) The town has a good farm-to-table scene, and my friend recommends Mezze, though pricey. Another option, the Barn looks casual, just right. 鈥擜lison Osius, 国产吃瓜黑料听magazine senior editor

Celebrating the End of a National 国产吃瓜黑料 in Hawaii

A sporty-looking woman standing on a bluff looking over the Na Pali coast and Pacific Ocean
The hike on Kauai鈥檚 Na Pali coast is famous for its incredible views and precipices.听(Photo: Courtesy Matt Skenazy)听

This fall I鈥檓 completing a challenge a quarter-century in the making. I grew up going on a bunch of road trips (the most notable being a 19-day, 5,000-mile adventure with my parents and brother in the family Prius), and before I was even able to drive, I鈥檇 already visited 30 states. So I turned my penchant for road trips into a project to visit all 50 states before my 25th birthday. The only criteria: I had to do something fun or memorable in each state, and layovers didn鈥檛 count. Everyone always asks what my least favorite states have been; I don鈥檛 have a least favorite, because there鈥檚 something in every state for everyone. That said, I do have two favorites: Utah and Vermont. I love hiking through red rocks and dense hardwood forests, and I鈥檝e gone back many times just to hit my favorite trails in both locales. As the clock ticks closer to my birthday in mid-November, there鈥檚 only one state left to check off: Hawaii. I thought it fitting to visit the 50th state as my 50th and final one. I have big plans to fly to Kauai and hike the in Na Pali Coast State Wilderness Park. Because it won’t be听peak season, wasn鈥檛 too hard. My dream is to cap off that day with a hefty scoop of Hanalei Sunrise ice cream at Pink鈥檚 Creamery. Or maybe two scoops. It is my birthday, after all. 鈥擡mma Veidt, Backpacker assistant editor

Anticipating a Homecoming听in Asheville

People sitting at tables and at the bar of Curate, a notable restaurant in Asheville. A sign in the back above hanging cured ham hocks, reads "Jamoneria."
C煤rate, a convivial James Beard Award鈥搘inning eatery in downtown Asheville, serves Spanish-style tapas. (Photo: Getty Images/The Washington Post)

My mom grew up in Asheville, North Carolina, and has always wanted to show my brothers and me around her hometown. My boyfriend has ties there, too鈥攈is sister moved there from New Mexico several years ago. So I鈥檓 headed to this popular outdoor destination in October with both my parents, my siblings, and my partner for four days. We鈥檝e rented a home on a nice plot of land just outside of town, where we’ll be able to have campfires and soak in a hot tub under the stars. Hopefully our trip will happen right as the leaves are firing in all their fall colors. It’s an active bunch, so we’ll hike, maybe ride some singletrack, or fly-fish for trout in the streams of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Beyond that, we’re excited to sample the highly touted food and drink scene. My boyfriend’s sister runs The Garden, a food truck that often posts up at one of three Wedge brewery locations around town, so we’ll definitely check that out. 国产吃瓜黑料 has also run some great stories about Asheville recently, with recommendations from singer Angel Olsen on her favorite hangouts and tips from other locals, so we’ll consult those when planning our day-to-day. 鈥揂bigail Barronian, 国产吃瓜黑料听magazine senior editor

Larch-Peeping Beneath the Peaks of the Dolomites

A green field looking out at the craggy Italian Dolomites
The craggy Dolomites are full of hiking trails that are popular year-round (Photo: Courtesy Jamie Aranoff)

For part of a longer trip to Europe this fall, I鈥檝e carved out a weekend in the Italian Dolomites when the larches change color. As deciduous conifers (which feels like an oxymoron but surprisingly isn鈥檛), larches听have needles that turn yellow before dropping听off each autumn. I鈥檝e been obsessed with these weird and wonderful trees since I first saw a photo of them in Washington鈥檚 Cascades, and was delighted to learn that they grow thickly near the Italian ski town of Cortina d鈥橝mpezzo. My husband and I听booked a bed-and-breakfast in town鈥攖he options are many, and quite affordable in the autumn off-season鈥攁nd plan to spend a few days in late October hiking through the forests under the towering peaks. While I have more trails on my list than I know we鈥檒l be able to accomplish, I鈥檓 most excited for the 7.8-mile Croda da Lago circuit. The highlight of this moderate day hike is Lago Federa, a larch-ringed lake beneath the face of one of this area鈥檚 most distinct peaks.听Lunch at Rifugio Palmieri, one of the only mountain huts in the region that stays open through October, is a no-brainer. 鈥擬ikaela Ruland, National Park Trips associate content director

Surfing and Kayaking in Maine

A surfer catches a barrel off Higgins Beach, Maine, while a new set of waves comes in.
Solid sets and swell in the fall make for good surfing at Higgins Beach, south of Portland. (Photo: Getty Images/Portland Press Herald)

I grew up visiting Maine almost every summer, but next month I鈥檒l be traveling to Portland for the first time, for my older brother鈥檚 wedding. Both my brother and his fianc茅e also went to school in Maine (she鈥檚 a many-generation Mainer), so听it feels bizarre that I haven鈥檛 been to the state’s largest city听yet. We鈥檙e staying in an Airbnb close to the wedding-party venue鈥�, an old church turned restaurant鈥攊n between the West End and Old Port districts. The neighborhood is a ten-minute walk from the harbor, where we plan to rent some sea kayaks and explore the plethora of islands that dot Casco Bay. So far my summer has mostly consisted of outings on rivers and lakes, so I can鈥檛 wait to get some ocean time in. And if I can swing it, I鈥檒l go surfing at Higgins Beach, nine miles south of Portland. Fall is the best time to surf in New England, and by mid-September there should be some good swells. I also can鈥檛 wait to check out Portland鈥檚 burgeoning food scene. My friends tell me the is a special low-key place to get a lobster roll overlooking the ocean. 鈥擪elly Klein, 国产吃瓜黑料听magazine associate editor

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The 13 Best Hut-to-Hut Hikes in the World /adventure-travel/destinations/best-hut-to-hut-hikes/ Tue, 27 Jun 2023 10:40:04 +0000 /?p=2636857 The 13 Best Hut-to-Hut Hikes in the World

From Chamonix to New Zealand, this expert hiker reveals the most beautiful hut-to-hut hikes on the planet

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The 13 Best Hut-to-Hut Hikes in the World

The merits of hut-to-hut hiking are many: it鈥檚 one of the most accessible ways to tackle a multiday outdoor adventure, offers the benefits of backcountry camping鈥攃rowd-free sunrise vistas, deep wilderness immersion, and long, glorious days on the trail鈥攁nd promises the creature comforts of home, notably running water, toilet facilities and a warm, dry place to sleep.

While the U.S. has several well-known and well-regarded hut systems, I’ve hiked a handful of the world’s most famous hut-to-hut trails and can tell you that some trekking systems abroad are worth traveling for. Here are the most stunning, with accommodations that range from rustic guesthouses run by locals to high-altitude refugios to backcountry bunkhouses set amid scenery that will soothe your soul. One thing鈥檚 for certain鈥攅very one of these 13 trips is a bucket-list-worthy escape.

Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

The author and friend hiking the Laugavegur Trail
The author, left, and friend hiking the Laugavegur Trail (Photo: Courtesy Emily Pennington)

Length: 33.6 miles
Terminus: 罢丑贸谤蝉尘枚谤办
Best time to go: July to August
Days to complete: 5 to 6

Starting with the splotchy rhyolite mountains of Landmannalaugar, as colorful as an artist鈥檚 paint palette, Iceland鈥檚 fabled doesn鈥檛 slouch on the scenery for the entire route southward. The trail, only open mid-June through September鈥攁nd even then you鈥檒l encounter snowfields鈥攖raverses volcanic moonscape slopes freckled with obsidian and plunges into deep green valleys filled with mirror-clear tarns. Because its otherworldly landscapes and jaw-dropping beauty attract the masses, the five (from $80) tend to book up to six months in advance, though hikers may elect to bring their own tent and camp near each hut for free. Want to trek with a guide or explore farther off the beaten path? arranges a Hidden Trails itinerary each summer that tacks on several obscure lakes and waterfalls to this famous hike (from $3,475).

Overland Track, Tasmania

Tasmania's Waterfall Valley Hut
Closing in on the Waterfall Valley Hut, which has an adjacent grassy area that can be used for camping (Photo: Courtesy Emily Pennington)

Length: 40.4 miles
Termini: Ronny Creek (north) and Narcissus Hut at Lake St. Clair (south)
Best time to go: December to March
Days to complete: 6 to 7

Though it鈥檚 punctuated by a state-of-the-art hut system (think: mud rooms, clean kitchen spaces, and composting toilets), Tasmania鈥檚 is rugged, rooty, and rocky, even by American standards. Still, we wouldn鈥檛 let a little rain and mud stand in the way of this recommendation; the trade-off are expansive button-grass plains descending into ancient eucalyptus forests, possible encounters with adorable wallabies and wombats, sapphire alpine lakes, and the chance to set off on a class-three scramble up 5,305-foot Mount Ossa, the highest in this Australian island state. Most hikers depart from Ronny Creek and stay in a handful of huts en route to Lake St. Clair and the ferry to the St. Clair Visitor Center, though if you鈥檙e up for another 11 miles of tramping, by all means. Plan to pay a total of about $190 for . Looking for a splurge? Check out Tasmanian Walking Company鈥檚 six-day (from $2,803), which boasts privately owned huts with fireplaces, local wine, and freshly prepared meals.

Annapurna Circuit, Nepal

Bridge crossings, prayer flags, and incredible Himalayan peaks are some of the sights along the Annapurna Circuit (Photo: Courtesy Emily Pennington)

Length: 143 miles
Termini: Besisahar (east) to Pokhara (west)
Best time to go: March to April or October to November
Days to complete: Up to 21

The is a breathtakingly high altitude romp around the Annapurna massif, passing through some of the Himalayas鈥� most soul-stirring scenery as it climbs from lush forests filled with delicate butterflies and past rushing cascades to Thorung La Pass, a lung-crunching 17,769 feet above sea level. Travelers can expect to see myriad important Buddhist cultural markers, too: fluttering prayer flags, centuries-old temples, and intricate prayer wheels. Accommodations are simple and affordable: teahouses with Western-friendly menus and private-room options鈥攋ust don鈥檛 expect a heater. And small villages are now connected via a dirt road that spans most of the route, so making the trek is not the remote experience it once was (and you can hop on adjacent trails to avoid the road altogether). As of April 2023, Nepal implemented a new rule stating that all trekkers must hire a licensed guide or porter to explore the country鈥檚 wilderness trails. Experienced tour companies like and offer excellent guided trips, full of history and heart (inquire for prices).

Mount Meru Trek, Tanzania

Mount Meru shrouded in clouds
Mount Meru, a dormant volcano, shrouded in clouds (Photo: Getty Images/Stockbyte)

Length: 43.5 miles
Terminus: Momella Gate
Best time to go: December to February or July to October
Days to complete: 3 to 4

If you don鈥檛 have time for a full expedition up Kilimanjaro (19,340 feet), or you鈥檙e seeking an epic acclimatization hike before the big journey, Mount Meru (14,968 feet) is a fantastic option. Situated in Arusha National Park, in northern Tanzania, this brief trek boasts abundant wildlife sightings on day one (giraffes, zebras, and, if you鈥檙e lucky, elephants) before a steep ascent that affords phenomenal views of the collapsed crater and ash cone. From the summit, hikers can even enjoy panoramic vistas eastward to Kilimanjaro, often hovering above the clouds like an ethereal being. As for accommodations, expect rustic, dorm-style cabins with indoor mess halls and separate lodging for your porters. Due to the amount of wildlife, an armed ranger is required to hike with groups on the first day of this trek, so a guided trip is a must. and are both highly regarded (inquire for prices).

Kumano Kodo, Japan

A typical traditional guesthouse along the Kumado Kodo’s Nakahechi Route (Photo: Courtesy )

Length: 43.5 miles
Termini: Tanabe (west) and Katsuura (east)
Best time to go: March to May or October to November
Days to complete: 5

The , located south of Osaka on Japan鈥檚 Kii peninsula, is a centuries-old pilgrimage route and one of only two paths of its kind to earn Unesco World Heritage status (the other is the Santiago de Compostela in Spain and France). Technically, the Kumano Kodo is not a singular route but a network of footpaths that crisscross the deeply wooded region, passing ancient Shinto shrines and temples, edging past misty waterfalls (including the tallest in the country), and wending through tiny villages. The (a.k.a. the Imperial Route) is the most popular way to explore. Skip the guided tours on this one鈥攖he Kumano Travel website is incredibly thorough and helpful with bookings鈥攁nd instead plan to overnight in traditional ryokans, or inns, as you go.

Nahuel Huapi National Park Traverse, Argentina

Argentina's Refugio Frey sit against craggy mountains and on the shores of an alpine lake
Refugio Frey is the only reservable hut on Argentina’s Nahuel Huapi National Park Traverse. (Photo: Courtesy Mattia Molinari)

Length: 25 miles
Termini: Villa Catedral (south) to Arroyo Lopez (north)
Best time to go: December to March
Days to complete: 4 to 5

Soaring, toothy peaks that seem to grasp at the sky, glittering azure lakes, rushing waterfalls, and refugios that resemble hobbit houses鈥� there鈥檚 a lot to love about this trek across Argentina鈥檚 first national park. Utilize the robust public transportation from the gateway city of San Carlos de Bariloche, and nab a night at 鈥攖he only reservable hut of the four鈥攊n advance. Alternatively, you can hire a respected company like for a guided adrenaline-fueled adventure along steep, rocky ridgelines, with opportunities to rock-scramble and take in the striking views of enormous Lake Nahuel Huapi (from $1,310). Before jetting off, spend a few days luxuriating in Bariloche, surprisingly European and often touted as the Switzerland of South America.

Jotunheimen National Park Historic Route, Norway

Length: 35.4 miles
Termini: Gjendesheim (east) to Eidsbugarden (west)
Best time to go: July to early September
Days to complete: 4

For a hearty dose of towering peaks, deep-cut valleys, and crystal-clear lakes, look no further than through , often referred to as Land of the Giants. Thirty-five miles might not seem like much at first, but this trail is no walk in the park鈥攜ou鈥檒l be following in the footsteps of Norway鈥檚 mountaineering history, sometimes gaining over 3,600 feet in a day as you clamber over craggy terrain (chains are present to aid with grip on the most harrowing sections), making your way between two remote lakes once essential to accessing the region: Gjende and Bygdin. You can book the DNT huts鈥攖he video below, of Fondsbu, is just one run by the 鈥攊n advance and traverse the 鈥渇airylands鈥� of Svartdalen solo, or sign on with for a similarly supported route that鈥檒l quench your hiker hunger with delectable included meals (from $4,800).

Tongariro Northern Circuit, New Zealand

The 28-bunk Waihohonu Hut is set at an elevation of 3,773 feet and has a resident warden on-site from May through mid-October. (Photo: Courtesy New Zealand Department of Conservation)

Length: 22.4 miles
Terminus: Whakapapa Village, North Island
Best time to go: November to April
Days to complete: 3 to 4

Unlike the Tongariro Crossing (a day hike which traverses the same eponymous national park), the allows travelers to get up close and personal with the nation鈥檚 most notorious volcanic peaks, sans the crowds. The loop circumnavigates the snowcapped, charcoal-hued cone of Mount Ngauruhoe, skirting hissing steam vents, ancient lava flows, and brilliant emerald lakes. Considered one of New Zealand鈥檚 Ten Great Walks, this hike is for geology and Lord of the Rings buffs who鈥檇 love nothing more than tackling a such a boulder-strewn landscape en route to Mordor. You can opt to through the well-appointed huts (which include bunk beds with mattresses, indoor heating, kitchens, and non-flush toilets), or book a locally led trip like three-day jaunt (from $891).

The Walker鈥檚 Haute Route, France and Switzerland

A snowcapped Matterhorn with the twinkling lights of Zermatt, Switzerland
The eastern terminus of Zermatt, with the Matterhorn in the distance (Photo: Getty Images/KDP)

Length: 108 to 141 miles (depending on the route)
Termini: Chamonix, France (west) and Zermatt, Switzerland (east)
Best time to go: Mid-July to mid-September
Days to complete: 10 to 14

Sure, this one winds up on virtually every best-of hiking list on the planet, but if you take a second to Google a few snapshots of the gobsmacking glacially carved valleys, fields full of crocus and blue bugle, and steep summits that jut skyward like granitic witches鈥� hats, you鈥檒l quickly see why. The (not to be confused with the similarly named ) passes below the summits of ten of the twelve highest peaks in the Alps. You鈥檒l alternate between staying in well-appointed mountain huts and quaint European villages, indulging in fresh pastries and local cheeses between leg-burning ascents. Huts book up well in advance (and require a for booking), or just let an experienced company like or do all the hard work and logistics, while you focus on the scenery (from $6,195 and $3,616, respectively).

Sunshine Coast Trail, Canada

The Tin Hat Hut is set on a bluff overlooking the mountains and lakes.
Set near the top of 3,914-foot Tin Hat Mountain, the Tin Hat Hut is fully insulted and can sleep up to ten people. (Photo: Getty Images/ed_b316)

Length: 111.8 miles
Termini: Sarah Point on Desolation Sound (north) to Saltery Bay (south)
Best time to go: June to September
Days to complete: 9 to 10

Often lauded as our northern neighbor鈥檚 best, least commercialized, and longest hut-to-hut trek, the meanders across the British Columbia seashore, terminating some 90 miles north of Vancouver. The journey is a bucket-list adventure for forest bathers and ocean lovers alike, with wonderful opportunities to spot wolves, deer, raccoons, grizzlies, and elk, not to mention pick plentiful blackberries and salmonberries in late summer. Fourteen (with another slated to open next year) are set along the route, and the provides loads of how-to info it you鈥檇 prefer to go it alone. Another possibility is a guided partial trek with (from $1,340).

The O Circuit, Chile

A guanaco crosses the road not far from Laguna Amara
Guanacos not far from Laguna Amara (Photo: Getty Images/Christian Peters)

Length: 85 miles
Terminus: Torres del Paine National Park鈥檚 Laguna Amarga Entrance
Best time to go: November to March
Days to complete: 11

As one of the premier treks in South America, southern Chile鈥檚 O Circuit is a show-stopping option for mountain-loving backpackers who want to put in the big miles when the U.S. is knee-deep in winter. Longer (and more secluded) than its more famous cousin to the south, the , the O Circuit includes the aforementioned route, plus dozens of off-the-beaten-path miles skirting the northern expanse of Torres del Paine National Park. Purchase your online in advance, then plan to get to your refugio (see the sites managed by and ) or camping spot as early as possible, as this trip is incredibly popular. Wildland Trekking offers , if that鈥檚 your preference ($5,900).

Triglav National Park Traverse, Slovenia Mountain Trail, Slovenia

Mount Triglav is the highest peak in both Slovenia and the Julian Alps.

Length: 27 miles
Termini: Vrsic Pass (north)听to Lake Bohinj (south)
Best time to go: June to September
Days to complete: 4

It seems like the Julian Alps have been on the tip of every travel writer鈥檚 tongue ever since the Juliana Trail made its debut back in 2020. But if you鈥檇 rather not blow all your vacation time hiking the full 168 miles through this scenic landscape, through Triglav National Park will give you a taste of the best stuff. Book hut reservations for , , and in advance, then get ready to traipse across craggy ridgelines, limestone escarpments, and peacock-green tarns. If arranging the trek yourself sounds like too much of a headache (and the language barrier can be intimidating), offers a similar itinerary, with an optional add-on to summit 9,396-foot Mount Triglav, the highest in Slovenia ($430).

Sneffels Traverse, Colorado

Yellows blend with green and orange in early autumn over Colorado's Last Dollar Pass
The views of San Juan Mountains from the hut atop Last Dollar Pass are worth the hike to 11,000 feet.听(Photo: Getty Images/CampPhoto)

Length: 29.4 miles
Termini: Telluride (south) and Ouray (northeast)
Best time to go: July to September
Days to complete: 5

The U.S. is home to several well-regarded hut systems, but one stands out above the rest: the . Run by the in the (you guessed it) glorious San Juan Mountains of western Colorado, this route begins at 10,676-foot Last Dollar Pass, above the iconic ski town of Telluride, and meanders between four diminutive, eight-person bunk-style cabins on its way to the gold-rush town of Ouray. Due to its popularity, hikers ($275, including return-shuttle service) through the hut system between June 1 and October 15. Expect eye-catching meadows of purple lupine, serrated sky-high peaks, and verdant forests of aspen and pine along the way.

Emily Pennington has now trekked on every continent, including hundreds of nights spent on the trail in the United States. For big adventures, she recommends bringing a Kula Cloth and a clip-on carabiner mug.

The author hiking near the Braga Monastery of Nepal
The author hiking near the Braga Monastery of Nepal (Photo: Courtesy Emily Pennington)

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Finland, the Happiest Country in the World, Is Giving Away Free Trips /adventure-travel/destinations/world-happiest-country-finland-free-trip/ Wed, 29 Mar 2023 10:30:53 +0000 /?p=2623717 Finland, the Happiest Country in the World, Is Giving Away Free Trips

The 2023 World Happiness Report is out and Finland took the winning spot for the sixth time, and they want you to come visit鈥攆or free. Plus: awesome trip ideas in other happy countries.

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Finland, the Happiest Country in the World, Is Giving Away Free Trips

Feeling blue? Consider traveling to Finland.

For the sixth year in a row, the Nordic country has been named the happiest country in the world by the , an initiative spearheaded by the United Nations.

We like to think it has something to do with the sauna and cold plunge culture, but the report analyzes data from the Gallup World Poll, focusing on six factors that explain varying levels of self-reported happiness: social support, income, health, freedom, generosity, and absence of corruption. For the past decade, it鈥檚 been released annually on March 20 to celebrate the International Day of Happiness, which was first proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 2013.

鈥淭he ultimate goal of politics and ethics should be human well-being,鈥� said Jeffrey Sachs, president of the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network, . 鈥淭he happiness movement shows that well-being is not a 鈥榮oft鈥� and 鈥榲ague鈥� idea but rather focuses on areas of life of critical importance: material conditions, mental and physical wealth, personal virtues, and good citizenship.鈥�

Finland is seizing the moment by offering free trips to a four-day Masterclass of Happiness on what makes Finns so happy.

Finland鈥檚 neighbors Denmark (No. 2), Iceland (No. 3), Sweden (No. 6), and Norway (No. 7) also ranked high. Israel moved up to No. 4 this year, after coming in at No. 9 in 2022. The Netherlands (No. 5), Switzerland (No. 8), Luxembourg (No. 9) and New Zealand (No. 10) complete the top 10. Eight of the ten happiest countries are in Europe.

The United States ranked 15th this year, moving up from 16th in 2022. Canada came in at 13th. Afghanistan took last place.

Cresta Lake, Switzerland. To our mind, the happiest countries are blessed with spectacular geography and outdoor opportunities. (Photo: Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld/Getty)

Interestingly, even after three years of a pandemic, positive emotions remained resilient. 鈥淔or a second year, we see that various forms of everyday kindness, such as helping a stranger, donating to charity, and volunteering, are above pre-pandemic levels,鈥� said Professor听Lara B. Aknin, an editor of the report and Director of the Helping and Happiness Lab at Simon Fraser University. 鈥淎cts of kindness have been shown to both lead to and stem from greater happiness, which is the focus of Chapter 4.鈥�

also briefly highlights the benefits of getting outside, and urges governments to take environmental action.

鈥淚t is also the job of society to protect the environment鈥攆or the sake of present and future generations. There is powerful evidence of how contact with nature and green space enhances human well-being,鈥� the authors say. 鈥淏ut there is also the overarching challenge of climate change, where our present way of life can only be protected by major international effects to reduce to net zero the emission of greenhouse gasses.鈥�

Finland is seizing the moment by offering free trips to a four-day Masterclass of Happiness on what makes Finns so happy. The first one will take place at the lakeside resort June 12 to 15. You can to “Find Your Inner Finn” through April 2nd, so get going. Only ten people will be chosen and their travel costs will be covered. You’ll earn about things like the Finnish approach to nature, a balanced life, and overall wellbeing.

Or get motivated by the stories we list below when you plan your next adventure and head to a country in the top 10 to soak up some happy vibes. Here are a few of our favorite outings to get you inspired.

Finland (The Happiest)

The Best Way to See Finland Is to Ski Finland

Author and political consultant Stuart Stevens loves a good sufferfest, so he couldn鈥檛 resist Border to Border: 420 kilometers of nordic sliding through a country that defines what winter is all about.

Iceland (3rd Happiest)

Behind the Scenes with Photographer Chris Burkard in Iceland

Chris Burkard is one of the most recognizable names in the outdoor photography space, and he鈥檚 always game to hike, bike, run, or climb to a vantage point for the perfect shot. On a recent assignment, Burkard trekked through the Icelandic landscape and returned with photos that will inspire viewers to get out on their own hike.

Switzerland (8th Happiest)

The Best Trail-Running Route in the World

The Swiss Alps are home to an incredible new hut-to-hut runners鈥� route called the Via Valais. It鈥檚 a little demanding鈥�150 miles, nine stages, and 42,000 feet of elevation gain鈥攂ut if you can take it on, you鈥檙e guaranteed one of the most spectacular adventures of your life.

New Zealand (10th Happiest)

Summer in New Zealand (Photo: Suriyapong Thongsawang/Getty)

The Ultimate New Zealand South Island Travel Guide

New Zealand鈥檚 South Island is undoubtedly one of the world鈥檚 most beautiful places, where golden beaches and dense rainforests border the snow-capped Southern Alps, and adventures are endless. But for those of us who can鈥檛 pick up and move to Christchurch, here鈥檚 a definitive guide on how to make the most of your time there.

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9 of the Most Unique Airbnbs in the World /adventure-travel/destinations/most-unique-airbnbs/ Mon, 06 Feb 2023 11:30:41 +0000 /?p=2618459 9 of the Most Unique Airbnbs in the World

Because why opt for a cookie-cutter apartment when you can spend the night in an igloo, a ceramic serpent, or a yellow submarine?

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9 of the Most Unique Airbnbs in the World

Ever traveled somewhere just to stay in lodging that made you go 鈥淲ow!鈥� as soon as you saw it? I have, charmed by the architecture or the amenities or the once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience a night in a treehouse or a castle or a location I recognized from a movie. With that in mind, Airbnb has a category called OMG, featuring what it calls 鈥渦nique abodes鈥濃€攁nd indeed, there are dozens to choose from that will make you marvel. I picked out nine from around the world that are weird, wonderful, and might make your next trip one of the most adventurous yet.

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1. Sleep in a Tower Above the Sea, Panama

You鈥檒l have amazing views of the Caribbean from this four-story structure, located in the tropical Panamanian archipelago of Bocas del Toro. Explore area mangroves, surf the nearby Carneros point break, birdwatch鈥攜ou鈥檝e got the ideal hideout鈥攆or the more than five dozen native species, or just gaze downward into waters frequented by fish, stingrays, and dolphins. Head inland to catch a glimpse of anteaters, sloths, monkeys, and bats. A dinghy will transport you the short distance offshore to this unique tower, which sleeps up to five people. Plan to visit during the drier months, typically January through May and September through October, and pack quick-dry clothing for any surprise showers.


2. Snuggle Up in a Snow Igloo, Finland

Immerse yourself in the landscape of Lapland with a stay at this igloo, located adjacent to a lake and Pyh盲-Luosto National Park, and created winter after winter by the family that rents it out. You and up to three others will have your own bed鈥攂ut come prepared for the cold, with your own sleeping bag and adequate thermal wear, because below-zero temperatures are the norm here much of the year. (Although a nearby shared, heated house for visitors to use is available with a kitchen, toilets, and a shower.) The flip side of feeling the chill is getting to admire the northern lights, not to mention nearby cross-country trails, a downhill ski resort, and owners who work as adventure outfitters and can arrange activities in the surrounding area, including fat biking, snowshoeing, horseback riding, and ice fishing.


3. Get Grounded in This Earth Conker, Wales

It鈥檚 a metal soccer ball, a space orb, a copper conker, as Brits call it (that鈥檚 a buckeye to you and me). However you think of it, this innovative outpost offers simple pleasures amid the moors of central Wales. When the weather is wet鈥攕omething that happens on the regular鈥攜ou鈥檒l need four-wheel drive to navigate the terrain. But if off-grid is what you鈥檙e after, and a routine of daily walks in the woods, past grazing sheep, and down to the small nearby town and its pub, followed by a campfire and a homemade pizza, and maybe a bath in the outdoor tub, then this remote, for up to two people will aid what ails you.


4. Play Out the Apocalypse in This Bunker, New Mexico

Step back in time, and below ground, with an overnight visit at this historic bunker outside Roswell. The site is one of hundreds around the nation built to defend the U.S. from what were perceived as serious foreign threats during the Cold War. Unfamiliar with that period and its weapons? The owners offer a full tour of the grounds, which include a 186-foot-deep missile silo and a launch-control center, the upper level now renovated to serve as lodging for two, with kitchen essentials, a grill, and shared green space above ground. Spend your evening paging through old instruction manuals and emergency operation procedures or perusing related memorabilia鈥攐ne guest compared it to staying in a museum, with time to explore and gawk at points of interest like an escape hatch and blast doors鈥攁nd step outdoors come nightfall to enjoy the immense starry skies, or bring your binocs to birdwatch for owls.


5. Live in a Yellow Submarine, New Zealand

Now you can sing the Beatles’ song in a place nearly perfect for the lyrics. You won’t be underwater, but the coast is a quick 30-minute drive away. Instead, this cheery North Island sub is surrounded by a sea of green: forested farmland 100 miles north of Wellington. From its Beatles-themed bathroom and porthole windows to the bunk-bed quarters for four and more dials and levers than you鈥檒l know what to do with, these creative confines have charmed many an overnight guest.


6. Hang Out in the Belly of a Snake, Mexico

Likely one of the most popular picks on Airbnb, this half-serpent, half-bird, designed to resemble its eponymous Aztec god, is typically booked out months in advance. One look at its imaginative and organic design will explain why: its shape, detailed mosaic tilework and ceramic details, colored-glass windows, an open-air shared deck in the snake鈥檚 mouth, and thoughtful landscaping (both inside and out) make this a mythical, one-of-a-kind experience, as many visitors have attested. Located within a 40-acre gated community west of Mexico City, Quetzalcoatl鈥檚 Nest consists of ten residences鈥攜ou鈥檒l be staying in one in the belly of the beast, which can sleep up to six people. Getting there requires a car or an Uber, but the property鈥檚 expansive natural surrounds, open spaces, and native wildlife will tempt you to just hang out on-site.


7. Float Your Campsite, the Netherlands

Motor your platform raft around a lake and canals until you鈥檝e found just the right spot to moor for the night. You and a partner can fish, swim, birdwatch, and enjoy as much of a hermetic natural getaway as you like, far from any and all annoying campers, with this raft setup. What鈥檚 provided: a tent, a small camping kitchen and a makeshift table and chairs, a portable toilet, and a buoyant pallet with an attached outboard engine. The rest is up to you. Just 30 miles north of Amsterdam, this region is an ideal respite for a quiet weekend, with opportunities to explore nearby windmills, tulip fields, and the dunes of Bergen aan Zee, ten miles west on the North Sea coast.


8. Embrace a Box with a View on the Riviera, Italy

Such simplistic quarters are not what you鈥檇 expect to find on the Italian Riviera. But we can鈥檛 all afford to stay in a pastel-colored palazzo overlooking the sea. Small and bare-bones, this is. But how much time will you stay holed up in your StarsBox, when the beach is just minutes away by foot and you鈥檝e got an adjacent (albeit shared) swimming pool, hot tub, and sauna at your disposal? We鈥檇 argue that, if anything, these digs will prompt you to make the most of your outdoor time. After all, you didn鈥檛 come to this part of the Mediterranean to stay indoors.


9. Commune with Animals at a Biosphere, Bolivia

Just outside one of Bolivia鈥檚 most populated cities, Cochabamba, is a beetle-shaped structure set in an agricultural area and backed by the Andes mountains. The owners provide breakfast and then leave to you go about your day鈥攜ou can hike the foothills, hop the bus into town, or organize a day trip to explore nearby Tunari National Park. But La Biosfera, with its clean, white, modern design and laid-back vibe, tends to keep guests lingering around the property. Wake up to birdsong, do some yoga by the lake, and wander the grassy grounds to encounter free-roaming llamas, peacocks, geese, and other domesticated animals. Shop the local market and then wind things down by the fire pit. Or bring friends for a trip that combines relaxation with high-altitude trekking. That鈥檚 how we鈥檇 do it.

Tasha Zemke has traveled extensively around the U.S. and the world and has outgrown her desire to camp on a thin blow-up mattress. Airbnbs have become her accommodation of choice, and she spends hours looking for those with notable architecture.听She recently stayed at a shotgun-style home in New Orleans, where the city鈥檚 famous chicory coffee was stocked in the pantry, the nation’s oldest continually functioning streetcar was steps from the front door, and a favorite local shave-ice stand was two blocks away.

The author, right, with her daughter at their Airbnb in New Orleans (Photo: Tasha Zemke)

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