These are two of my favorite destinations with an abundance of nature-based treasures:
Iceland where I had spent a month visiting venues in the four cardinal directions: Akureyri in the North, Westman Islands in the South, Egilsstadir in the East and Isafjordur in the West.
The Azores where I visited eight of the nine islands in this archipelago: Sao Miguel, Pico, Flores, Faial, Sao Jorge, Tercera, Graciosa, Santa Maria.
Bicycling and hiking are two of my three favorite sports activities. (The third is Nordic skiing.) These are two destinations that I adore:
When hiking the Dolomites, you almost feel like you can touch the clouds.
The Lofoten Islands in Norway are ideal for cycling. Here, the mountains meet the sea.
In Scotland, the luxe, five-star Cameron House has something for everyone, whether you’re a thrill seeker who gravitates to four-wheeling or someone who prefers something much more staid like upright paddleboarding. The expansive property within a national park fronts the stunningly scenic Loch Lomond. With myriad trails, paths and petite gardens both on property and a relatively short car ride away, the Cameron House actively embraces a sustainability ethic. This is my latest article for ForbesLife.
At the luxe Cayo Levantado Resort, strolling to the private beach at sunrise is a must-do experience.
The private beach is an idyllic location for sunning, swimming and snacking.
This private beach at Cayo Levantado Resort is a serene spot for sipping a chilled glass of verdejo.
Guests who wake up early are treated to this sunrise view from their private terrace.
The abundant lush foliage, creative wellness classes and chill vibe make it easy to truly get into a Zen state at the luxe Cayo Levantado Resort in the Dominican Republic. This is the area where the offerings include the most awesome Sound Healing.
Wherever I travel, I include outdoor activities, whether cycling, hiking, walking or cross-country skiing. These are three venues that offer phenomenal hiking opportunities.
Hut-to-hut hiking in the Dolomites is a rigorous but enchanting experience.
To truly experience the drama and beauty of the Grand Canyon, I hiked all the way down to Phantom Ranch, stayed overnight and then hiked back up the next day. (Going down is definitely harder on your legs.)
All my many trips to Norway involved outdoor adventures, including hiking in Jotunheimen National Park.
Some resorts touting that you’ll get away from it all mean it literally, in a good way. And that would define the Margaritaville Beach Resort Ambergris Caye in Belize. Once your shuttle boat docks at its pier, you won’t find any other resorts, restaurants or bars nearby. But you will find a low-key, informal vibe on a property that’s huddled in a tropical verdancy. Find out more about this resort in my latest article for ForbesLife.
Whether dining on tasty delicacies that are artistically presented on the plate, or soaking in one of the outdoor hot tubs, a visit to the contemporary Balnea Spa and its restaurant, Lumami, is a restful retreat.
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