Category Adventure Travel

If you’ve got one European long-distance hike on your bucket list, it’s probably the Tour du Mont Blanc. It was on mine, too.

Views over sparkling glaciers, Alpine prairies and lots (and lots!) of cheese await anyone who embarks on this border-crossing trek. Circling the largest peak in the Alps, Mont Blanc, the trail covers 170km (105 miles), climbs more than 10,000m (32,800ft) in cumulative altitude, and weaves through three Alpine countries: France, Italy and Switzerland. 

Every dream feels far away – until we start to break down what we need to do to achieve it. Here’s what it takes to hike or run the Tour du Mont Blanc.

How I prepared for hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc 

Don’t laugh at the folks who’ve sawed off the handle of their toothbrush to save on weight. Many of the climbs along the Tour du Mont Blanc are arduous, and every gram really does count. 

My first question as I prepared my bag was, Where would I sleep? Opting for camping would make the trek feel really wild, let me spend more time in nature and give a bit more flexibility about where and when I’d arrive each night. On the flip side, this would mean my home would be on my back (like a turtle), and heavy enough to reduce my walking speed significantly.

The other option was to sleep in refuges, or mountain huts. Refuges can range from rows of bunk beds to rooms that are almost luxurious – yet what they all offer in common is a dry place, sheltered from the elements. Plus (with rare exceptions), the dinners are delicious. Staying in refuges means no need to pack any camping or cooking gear, freeing up a lot of room in your backpack. 

Each refuge has its own culture and way of working, says Céline Mila, the gardienne (caretaker) of Refuge des Prés in the Contamines Valley. “Usually that means taking off your shoes before entering, and taking your trash away with you. The best way to get oriented at the refuge is by coming to see us when you arrive – it’s our job to share the mountain culture with you.”

For my Tour du Mont Blanc, I decided to stay in refuges the whole way.

What is the best time to do the Tour du Mont Blanc?

To beat the crowds, I decided to run the tour in mid-June. Even at the onset of summer, there was still quite a bit of snow above 1800m (5900ft), and many hikers brought along small snow chains to keep from slipping. I loved the extra challenge of the snow and the cooler daytime temperatures. July and August are the busiest months for the route, when the trail can sometimes feel like a highway. By September, things slow down again – but the huts also start to close up for the winter. While weather in the mountains can vary each year, usually July and August have the highest number of stable, rain-free days.

How long does the Tour du Mont Blanc take? And what do you eat along the route?

Hikers typically complete the loop in between seven and 10 days, and the fastest trail runners complete the journey in a staggering 20 hours. Regular trail runners tend to take things a bit slower, between three and four days. 

Since I was running the loop in four days, I packed only the barest essentials so as not to weigh myself down: a pair of leggings and a long-sleeve shirt to sleep in, a thin fleece for the mornings, a light raincoat, a pair of light gloves, a change of socks, my toothbrush, sunscreen, sunglasses and a headlamp. Plus, I wanted to eat as much local food as possible: crozets (cheesy pasta) in France, pizza in Italy and croûtes (a cheesy bread melt) in Switzerland.

Dinners were included in my demi-pension, or half-board. For lunch, I usually ordered the refuge’s picnic to eat along the way. While they’re nothing fancy, the sandwiches or even just bread, smoked meat and cheese always hit the spot.

Alix Noblat, an ultra-trail runner and specialist in nutrition in endurance sports, once told me to eat every half hour – before my stomach starts rumbling. So I always keep a snack on me, like protein bars or Snickers. Anything that can give me an energy boost is always in my pack.

The highs and lows of the Tour du Mont Blanc

After a few days on the trail, your sense of time and distance changes. Hikers will no longer measure their day by kilometers or hours traveled – but rather by the cols, or mountain passes, that they’ve reached. The most famous ones are:

• The Col du Bonhomme, which connects the lush Contamines Nature Reserve with the Alpine pastures of the Beaufortaine.

• The Col de la Seigne, at the border between France and Italy, with a spectacular view of Mont Blanc, Aiguille du Peuteurey, Dent du Géan and the treacherous Grandes Jorasses.

• The Col Grand Ferret, at the end of the remote Val Ferret, which brings a long, steep climb – and a descent on the other (Swiss) side that’s rolling and blissful.

• The Col de la Balme, overlooking Chamonix valley, which brings hikers back into France for the final few legs before the finish.

And don’t forget the valleys. The TBM passes through winter sports hubs like Chamonix and Courmayeur, as well as through smaller Alpine valleys. A standout valley is the Val Ferret: the trail runs high above the lush green pastures on the valley floor, giving a splendid view of the mineral rock faces of the range on the other side. Plus, the Rifugio Walter Bonatti’s cappuccinos are the best you’ll find anywhere above 2000m (6500ft).

Do you need to be in great shape to hike the Tour du Mont Blanc?

You should physically prepare for the hike, yes. Getting in shape for the TMB is a question of cardio training and foot preparation. Hikers should be fit enough to cover their desired distance each day, of course. But don’t forget to prepare your feet to avoid blisters: break in hiking shoes before the first day of the hike, and bring along anti-chafing cream if you’re worried you might have rubs.

How do I get to the area to start the hike?

Typically, the route begins and ends in Les Houches (Haute-Savoie) in the French Alps and follows a counterclockwise loop around the mountain range. However, you can also start from other towns on the TMB, such as Chamonix (Plan Praz), Courmayeur in Aosta Valley (Italy) and Champex Lac. Although most hikers will go counterclockwise, the clockwise direction can also be done. This way, you’re getting a much more tranquil route.

Les Houches is easily reached from anywhere in France using the train and Mont Blanc tramway connection. The latter is among the most scenic rail journeys in the world, so definitely worth a ride. You can also use the tram to access many mountain trails around Mont Blanc. Some peaks along the Tour du Mont Blanc are connected by cable cars so it shouldn’t always be an arduous hike. 

How can I hike the Tour du Mont Blanc safely?

Mountain trekking is always about preparation. When it comes to the Tour de Mont Blanc, you must carefully study your way and know the ins and outs of the route. We’re talking about some of the highest peaks in Europe here, so the more you know, the better. And the more honest you are about your capabilities, the more you’ll enjoy the trek. Can you walk up to 8 hours a day with constant ascents? Does hiking for more than a week sound like a good plan at this moment in your life?

The weather conditions should also be considered. It’s one thing going through idyllic Mont Blanc Massif scenery when the sun is pleasantly shining. It’s a different kind of challenge when there’s a thunderstorm or a snowfall. With long-day hiking treks like TMB, good weather plays a vital role. It’s best to know exactly what to expect and be ready to react when emergencies happen. Have a look at the official safety information and study the mountain hazards that can happen during your time in the wild. 

Equipment is another essential part of the Tour du Mont Blanc preparation. Your safety also depends on the things you take with you. GPS and detailed maps of the route you choose are obligatory. Check out the guide on the best trekking gear for a complete picture of items to take with you on TMB. And don’t underestimate the importance of comfortable, durable and waterproof footwear.

Why is the mountain called Mont Blanc?

Mont Blanc translates as “white mountain” in French and comes from the snow cap that covers the peak and the glaciers that stretch from its dome. Mont Blanc was first proclaimed the continent’s highest mountain at the beginning of the 18th century. The first documented climb occurred in 1786 when Michel-Gabriel Paccard and Jacques Balmat reached the summit of Mont Blanc starting from Chamonix.

What wildlife will I see on the trip?

One of the magical things about long-distance mountain trekking is the nature you see along the way. Apart from sublime panoramas, Tour du Mont Blanc provides a window into the fauna of the western side of the Alps. 

Encountering ibex is almost a guarantee during the trail. These are mountain goats with long horns that usually feed close to the hiking routes and on alpine meadows. Another horned animal you may see is the chamois. They are smaller than ibex, and they love going up and down rocky slopes. The cutest creature you can meet on TMB is the marmot. These chubby ground squirrels come out during the warmer months and hang out at higher elevations. 

Remember to keep a safe distance from all animals you see on the trail. The wilderness is their home, and when provoked, they can be dangerous and cause harm. 

Ready to make it happen?

This is a trek you should book early – at least two months out – to find accommodation at the refuges. Yet it can be planned at the last minute for those who prefer camping. Autour du Mont Blanc is an easy-to-use website that helps plan daily stages. You can also reserve huts here. 

The views…the food…the marmots! The Tour du Mont Blanc delivers at every step.

With the close of the Paris Olympics, a running joke on social media is that many viewers have been at a loss of how to fill their days.

After all, for two weeks, the French capital became the center of the world, hosting what has been lauded as one of the most successful and innovative games over the last few decades. Between superhuman feats of athleticism, there were tears of joy and tears of disappointment, all against the stunning background of the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Palais and the Seine river. It made for some dramatic and captivating television.

But the excitement isn’t over ⁠— these next few weeks are a short intermission until the Paralympics, which run from August 28 to September 8. The opening ceremony will take place outdoors at Place de la Concorde. Events will be held across some of the same venues that made the Olympics so mesmerizing, including Pont Alexandre III and the Eiffel Tower.

Demand for tickets has also taken off following the close of the Olympics, with locals looking for a way to prolong the collective euphoria experienced throughout the Games. After a slow start, organizers say that sales for the Paralympics average about 1000 tickets an hour, and that events in the most iconic venues ⁠— Versailles and Grand Palais ⁠— are sold out.

While Paris has hosted three Olympics, this year marks the first time the city is hosting a Paralympic Games. Along with innovative solutions for travelers with disabilities, perhaps the biggest legacy of the Paralympics will be how it’s served as an accelerator to make the cityscape – often described as an obstacle course for travelers with disabilities – more accessible and inclusive through improvements to city infrastructure and transportation.

Innovative ways travelers with disabilities will experience the Games

To enhance the spectator experience among the estimated 280,000 visitors with disabilities, organizers are introducing a few innovative services that will also mark a few firsts for the Paralympics.

Attendees of events – like blind soccer, wheelchair rugby and wheelchair basketball – who are blind or visually impaired will be able to follow the action with a tactile tablet Touch2See that offers a live-action, immersive experience. A moving magnet replicates the position of the ball in real time and the tablet vibrates to convey the intensity of the game. Likewise, audio descriptions fed through headsets provide precise information about the plays. Spectators with visual impairments can also use low-vision headsets that look like VR headsets and act like high-powered binoculars, to zoom in on the action for athletic competitions and for the opening and closing ceremonies.

In an Olympic first, the audio description service will also be available via the Olympics app, allowing attendees to listen through their personal smartphones and headsets, with live commentary in both French and English.

And visitors with reduced mobility can motorize their wheelchairs with an innovative solution provided by myomniTrott that involves hooking their wheelchair to a scooter. Users can then travel through the city, moving from one venue to the next, using the biking lanes.

How the Paralympics are accelerating a more accessible Paris

In the years leading up to the Paralympics, the city of Paris pledged €125 million to improve its accessibility in a frantic bid to make good on its promise of hosting a “Games Wide Open” and to leave no one behind.

And while it’s made strides in some areas, some say it still falls short in others.

One of the legacies of the Paralympics for Paris is the creation of 17 “augmented accessibility zones” in neighborhoods across the city, where priority routes have been rethought in order to provide a seamlessly accessible, obstacle-free journey from one municipal facility – like a library, museum or sports center – to another. Among other things, that means repairing cracked pavements, widening sidewalks, repainting pedestrian crossings, clearing paths and removing unnecessary obstacles, installing audible pedestrian signals, and improving warning and guide strips.

Similarly, municipal buildings are undergoing a series of improvements that may include lowering the height of reception desks or the installation of hearing loops in large spaces, and an assisted listening technology that transmits audio directly to hearing aids or cochlear implants without the background noise.

Accessible transportation in Paris

One of the biggest pain points for the city of Paris and Olympic organizers has been the city’s transportation offerings.

In 2021, only one in two bus stops were able to accommodate accessibility ramps. Three years, €22 million, and 380 urban restructuring projects later, all but two of the city’s 61 bus lines (line 40 and the Roissybus), and 1750 bus stops are accessible to wheelchair users and those with reduced mobility, while the tram is also fully accessible. The city says the Games accelerated the changes, and that they achieved in three years what would otherwise have taken up to 20 years.

“The significant investment will also be a legacy of the Paris 2024 Games,” the city says on its website.

But for all the progress made on the bus network, the metro system, which is more than a hundred years old, presents significant challenges and obstacles. Currently, only 29 stations, or 9% of the Paris metro system is fully or partially accessible to wheelchair users.

By comparison, London, which has an older and deeper network than Paris, was able to make 18% or double the number of stations accessible by the time of the 2012 London Olympics, as Nicolas Mérille, national accessibility advisor for the APF France Handicap association, pointed out to French news site Franceinfo.

“We hope that the event will create awareness and an electroshock on the fact that the daily life of people with disabilities, particularly in transport, is not at all the same as that of able-bodied people,” Mérille said.

How to find accessible accommodation, restaurants and attractions

Over the years, the city has also been conducting an accessibility audit campaign for hotels and accommodations, shops, restaurants and tourist attractions. So far, more than 450 establishments have been added to the city’s web app MyParisjetaime Handicap.

Visitors can use filters to find facilities that are adapted to different disabilities, such as hotels and restaurants with access ramps and accessible toilets; museums that are adapted to the visually impaired; and theaters that are adapted to those with hearing impairments.

It’s also worth looking out for the Tourisme & Handicap label when booking stays or restaurants. Managed by the country’s tourism office Atout France, the label is awarded to tourist establishments that meet specific needs of people with various disabilities. Pictograms indicate the accessibility conditions they can accommodate: hearing, mental, motor or visual.

Will Paris continue to drive accessibility improvements after the Games?

One of the small, but hugely impactful changes during the Paris Olympics was the careful choice of wording before the singing of anthems. Instead of simply instructing spectators to “please stand for the national anthem”, announcers added an important disclaimer at the end: “please stand, if you can.”

It’s a detail that didn’t go unnoticed by the disability community and which received wide praise for its inclusivity. And while disability rights advocates say that while huge strides have been made to make the city more accessible thanks to the arrival of the Paralympics, momentum must continue with the support of local Parisians and political will.

Adds Mérille: “The Games must not be seen as an enchanted interlude, because there is still a lot to do.”

Jackson Hole can be pricey, it is known as a celebrity hangout after all. But, you don’t need to have a Hollywood bank account to have a memorable visit. This Wyoming mountain town has a surprising number of budget-friendly lodging options and cheap things to do—especially if you enjoy outdoor adventures. It’s also a highly seasonal destination, meaning the cost of a vacation will be wildly different depending on which time of year you visit. 

If you’re trying to do Jackson Hole on a budget, here’s what to know to save some cash.

Daily costs

• Hostel room: $50-$120

• Basic room for two: $150-$250

• Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): $300 per night

• One-way ticket on public transportation: $1-$3

• Single day lift ticket at a ski resort: $129-$269

• Coffee: $3

• Sandwich: $12

• Dinner for two: $75

• Beer/pint at the bar: $8

• Average daily cost: $500 to $700

Visit during spring or fall

Jackson Hole has two main seasons for tourism: winter (for skiing and snowboarding) and summer (for hiking, mountain biking and other warm-weather adventures). 

The obvious tip here is to visit in a shoulder season to save money and avoid crowds. In early spring, the mountains are still covered in snow and you may even be able to get in a few laps of spring skiing or enjoy snowshoeing in solitude. While there’s merit to that idea, the best part of this timing is wildlife-viewing. It’s a great season to catch baby animals as they are just starting to explore their new surroundings in Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks. Spring is also when birds are migrating and nesting, and as temperatures start to heat up in May, colorful wildflowers begin to emerge.

Autumn brings a kaleidoscope of color to Jackson Hole. Aspen leaves turn gold or, in some cases, red and orange. Animals are also active, either preparing for hibernation or searching for mates. (Elk rutting, or the sound bull elks make when calling for mates, is often loudest at sunrise and sunset, so grab a coffee, bundle up and head for an early morning hike catch this seasonal.)

One caveat: In both spring and fall, the weather can be unpredictable. But with the right layers, you can have plenty of outdoor fun—and save some money, too. On a chilly day, make the beautiful drive up to nearby Granite Hot Springs after a day of hiking. Buy a day pass ($12 for adults, $7 for children) and treat your legs to some hard-earned rest and recovery after a long day on the trail. 

Invest in a national park pass

A day pass to Grand Teton National Park costs $20 to $35 (the price varies depending on your mode of transportation). If you’re planning to explore the park over several days or visit other national parks in the future—including nearby Yellowstone National Park—it probably makes more sense to buy an annual pass instead. You’ll pay $70 for an annual pass to Grand Teton National Park only, or $80 for an annual pass that gets you admission into all national parks, plus lots of other federally managed public lands. 

Mark your calendar for free days 

On specific days throughout the year, the National Park Service waives the admission fee at all national parks, including Grand Teton. (In 2024, there were six days like this.) The parks tend to be very busy on these free days, but if you don’t mind an early wake up you can likely catch a few quiet hours before the crowds build. 

Shop for souvenirs at consignment and thrift shops

Jackson Hole is known for its many upscale shops and boutiques. Thrift and consignment shops offer a unique and off-beat opportunity to uncover some on-of-a-kind keepsakes. Pop into shops like Browse ‘n Buy, Headwall Sports, Eclectic Consignment and Home Again to browse some eclectic finds. 

Bunk with friends

Jackson Hole has several hostels, including Cache House, The Hostel, and Teton Hostel Hideaway, which offer a fresh take on what a budget stay looks like. Find amenities like communal eating and sitting areas, ski tuning, coffee counters and game rooms. 

A handful of Jackson Hole hotels also have handy room configurations—bunk beds or family suites—that make it easy for groups to split costs while staying together in a private space. Check out Anvil Hotel, Mountain Modern, and The Virginian Lodge if you’re traveling with friends. 

Sleep under the stars

If you’re well-versed in tent camping, Jackson Hole has no shortage of campgrounds, with nightly rates that are typically a lot lower than what you’d pay at a hotel. 

If you don’t need services (and you’ve got a sturdy vehicle), you can also camp for free on public lands outside of developed campgrounds. Called “dispersed camping,” this option requires more flexibility and research, but you can’t beat the price. Platforms like iOverlander and Freecampsites.net can help you get started.

Skip the car rental

The costs of renting a car and parking can add up fast, especially if you’re staying for an extended period of time. Parking at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, for example, can be as high as $45 per day during peak ski season.

If you’re flying to Jackson Hole, consider bypassing the rental car counter to save some cash. Not only do many Jackson Hole hotels offer free airport shuttles, but they also offer free ski shuttles (an especially nice perk if you’re not used to driving in the snow and ice). On top of that, downtown Jackson Hole is small and easy to navigate on foot or bicycle. The region also has a robust public transit network called Southern Teton Area Rapid Transit, or the START Bus for short. Rides are cheap, typically between $1-$3 each way.

Ski at Jackon Hole’s other, smaller resort

Jackson Hole Mountain Resort is the most famous and largest ski resort in the region. But there’s also a lesser-known, more affordable option right downtown: Snow King Mountain. It’s smaller but no less fun, especially if you’re a beginner or traveling as a family. Kids 5 and under ski free, while daily lift tickets and lessons can be less than half the cost of those at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort.

Or, if you really want to save money, skip the ski resorts altogether. Winter activities that don’t require a lift ticket—like cross-country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, and hiking—tend to be much easier on the wallet. Bradley and Taggart Lakes are wonderful options to check out on days you’re skipping the lift line. 

Take advantage of season passes, discounts and deals

If you’re dead set on skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, there are some ways you can save a bit of cash. If you have a government-issued military ID, you can save up to 40% off lift tickets. If you have a current season pass to any other ski resort around the world, you can save up to 50% off your lift ticket on certain dates with the resort’s Golden Ticket offer. If someone you know has an Ikon Pass, they can also get you a friends and family voucher for up to 25% off.

If you plan on skiing a lot throughout the season, a multi-mountain pass like Ikon or Mountain Collective can also help you save money, especially for children 12 and under. Both of those options offer access to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort while Indy Pass holders can ski Snow King. These passes are more expensive upfront, but the broken down cost per day is often a better value than buying one-off lift tickets for the time you’re in town. The more you ski, the more value you get out of your pass.  

Check out nearby public lands and wilderness areas

You have to pay to visit Jackson Hole’s nearby national parks, but there are also lots of other public lands and wilderness areas that don’t cost a dime, including the National Elk Refuge, Bridger-Teton National Forest, and Rendezvous Park. Jackson Hole also has lots of other free activities and attractions, including the Jackson National Fish Hatchery, the nightly Town Square shootout (summers only), public art and more. 

You probably already know that Bora Bora’s lagoon is outrageously picturesque, revealing shades of blue you didn’t even know existed. And you’ll be pleased to learn that this stunning island in French Polynesia has beautiful beaches to match, fringed by a curtain of swishing palms.

You’ll find little slices of sandy heaven – almost always attached to a stylishly luxurious resort – scattered all around the main island and on the motu (islets) dotted around the lagoon, so you’ll have sun, sea and sand on tap wherever you choose to stay.

While most beaches are reserved for guests at Bora Bora’s luxe resorts, Bora Bora’s main official public beach, Matira Beach, is one of the best on the island. Starting at Matira and working clockwise around the lagoon, here are eight of the best beaches in Bora Bora to kickstart your island dream.

1. Matira Beach

Best beach for families

If Derek Zoolander were to describe Matira Beach, he would probably opt for “really, really, ridiculously good-looking.” It’s hard to imagine the need for a resort beach once you’ve spent time soaking up the sun on this gorgeous public beach, regarded by many as the best on the island.

The white sand and clear waters stretch from Hotel Matira on the southern tip of Bora Bora’s mainland up to the former Hotel Bora Bora (whose redevelopment has been stalled since 2008). As Matira Beach is a public beach, you’ll find both locals and tourists enjoying a swim, relaxing on the sand or wading out for a spot of snorkeling.

Pair this with beautiful sunsets and calm water for swimming and you’ve got a beach that’s a top spot for families by day, and a great romantic spot for couples at sunset.

Planning Tip: If you feel peckish, enticing eateries are scattered along Matira Beach, ranging from informal snack stands and casual cafes to fine dining restaurants.

2. Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort

Best beach for beginner snorkelers

Moving offshore from the main island, the private islet of Motu To’opua is home to the luxurious, Hilton-owned Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort, a great choice for snorkeling and sand-worshipping. The beach at the Conrad is a pretty decent size at around 500m (1640ft) in length, with the entrance jetty located right in the center of the sand.

In contrast to many other resort beaches, the sand faces the lagoon and not the main island, providing views of infinite shades of blue. Although it’s stunning, the vista is dominated by the resort’s overwater bungalows, so this isn’t quite the castaway experience.

Planning Tip: The best thing about this beach is the fact that you can snorkel directly from the sand, finding coral and bright fish just meters from the shoreline. This makes it an ideal beach for beginner snorkelers or those who aren’t strong swimmers. If you’ve bagged yourself an overwater bungalow then you’re in snorkeling heaven; you can jump in right from your porch!

3. Motu Tapu

Best beach for making a romantic proposal

The tiny lagoon island of Motu Tapu is owned by the Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort, and what it lacks in size, it makes up for in romantic possibilities, particularly if you head over with a personal chef and butler from the Conrad for a private meal for two (which is how most people come here).

Surrounded by a clear lagoon that turns a vivid blue as the water gets deeper, Motu Tapu was once the private beach of Queen Pomare IV, the queen of Tahiti from 1827 to 1877. With views of Bora Bora’s mountainous main island on one side, it’s the vision of a tropical island escape – if you were queen of Tahiti, you’d probably choose it for your private beach as well.

Planning Tip: Although you’ll probably feel the urge to take hundreds of photographs, a trip to this beach-ringed motu is all about romance. Private and almost deserted, it’s best enjoyed by putting your phone down and committing the scenery to your mental memory bank.

4. Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resort

Best beach for hammock lounging

Continuing clockwise around the lagoon, the island of Tevairoa is home to the lavish Le Bora Bora by Pearl Resort and its gorgeous 300m (984ft) stretch of sand. This coral islet is nestled between the ocean and the lagoon, with the Pearl Beach resort facing the mainland and the iconic profile of 727m (3285ft) Mt Otemanu.

There’s something about the misty line of mountains in the background, the Polynesian-style architecture of the resort, and the sublime lagoon vistas that compels you to sink into a hammock or collapse onto a beach lounger under a sun umbrella. Incidentally, you can do both here, while you bask in front of dreamy sea and island views.

Planning Tip: This is a great choice if you want to minimize the time between landing in Bora Bora and hitting the sand; you’re just a 10-minute boat ride from the airport and 15 minutes across the lagoon from Bora Bora’s largest village, Vaitape.

5. Blue Heaven Island Resort

Best for informal island charm

Just before you reach the airport on Mute Island, you’ll pass the private island of Motu Paahi and the agreeably informal Blue Heaven Island resort. A quaint, family-run five-bungalow pension with a natural, narrow beach, the resort describes itself as rustic, which means ceiling fans rather than air conditioning, a lagoon instead of a pool, solar electricity and wi-fi that is dependent on the weather. It was temporarily closed at the time of writing so check locally for the latest information.

The shoreline is rockier here but that doesn’t detract from the view, which features the same interplay of mountains and blue as at other more upmarket resorts. The best part about this beach is the epic snorkeling and lagoon kayaking possible right offshore. Some of the pricier resorts bring in their guests by boat to snorkel in the channel right next to this motu, but if you stay here, you’ll already be in prime position.

6. Motu Tane

Best for those with (very) deep pockets

Motu Tane is a small island located right next door to Motu Paahi but only an exclusive few get the chance to enjoy its beautiful beaches, said to be among the best in Bora Bora. The reason? The islet is privately owned by cosmetics mogul Francois Nars, but it was recently listed for sale for a cool US$37.5 million.

If you can’t stretch that far, you can still look across to the island from Motu Paahi and imagine owning your own private paradise island surrounded by white sand and dotted with Polynesian huts and coconut groves. Due to its proximity to Blue Heaven Island resort, you can assume the snorkeling is pretty epic here too.

7. Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Best for all-round wow factor

Continuing clockwise to the northeastern side of Bora Bora’s lagoon, beyond the airport on Mute Island, the celebrated beach at the Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora offers amazing views of Mt Otemanu from its sparkling stretch of sand.

Surprisingly, the beach isn’t the best thing about this swish private island. Visitors are also wowed by the collection of “mini beaches” lining the turquoise channels leading to the internal lagoon on this narrow island. Once you see them, you’ll want to sell everything you own and move here.

The main beach and the sandy strips surrounding the inner lagoon just ooze luxury. Combine this with four onsite restaurants and superb accommodation and you’ve found yourself the best beach resort on Bora Bora.

Planning Tip: While the Four Seasons charges five-star prices, look out for promotions such as discounts for advance booking and free nights if you stay longer than three days.

8. Sofitel Bora Bora Private Island

Best beach for privacy

Circling back towards the southern end of Bora Bora, you’ll find Motu Piti Uu Uta, home to the Bora Bora Private Island resort – owned by the Accor group but temporarily closed at the time of writing (check online for the latest information).

Although the beach here is small and shrinks considerably with the tide, its beauty lies in its privacy and the color of the surrounding lagoon. For the best views, take a quick stroll up the hill behind the resort, where you’ll find a few deck chairs where you can flop down and admire the sunset over the lagoon.

Planning Tip: Although the snorkeling is pretty decent directly out from the beach, if you swim or wade around the shallows to the deeper channel on the southern side of the island, you will find yourself in a prime spot often visited by snorkeling tours. Fish life is abundant here, but stop before you get too tired or bring something to float on.

Beating out even famously scenic destinations like Alaska and Utah, California is home to more national parks than any other state. The Golden State’s 10 national parks showcase the best of the West Coast’s diverse range of landscapes, from the towering redwoods of NorCal, the arid deserts of SoCal, the iconic flora of Joshua Tree and the surreal geologic results of past volcanic eruptions and glacier paths.

From crown jewels of the whole system like Yosemite to remote marine ecosystems like Channel Islands National Park, California’s national parks certainly pack a punch. In addition to these officially designated jewels, the National Park Service runs a bevy of other protected places, including wilderness areas, seashores, preserves and such national monuments as Cabrillo and Muir Woods.

If you want to get outside and let nature awe you, the Golden State has what you’re looking for. Here are the best national parks in California.

1. Yosemite National Park

Best for sheer grandeur

The centerpiece of the national park system and California’s most popular national park, Yosemite attracted 3.9 million visitors in 2023. Its grandeur is so evocative that it inspires awe even for those who’ve never been. A UNESCO World Heritage site for its exceptional natural beauty, including five of the world’s highest waterfalls, it’s also often considered the most beautiful national park in the state.

The park’s busiest and most developed part, Yosemite Valley, includes hits like the granite monster El Capitan, the precipitous drop of Bridalveil Fall, the green, often wildflower-strewn valley floor, and, front and center, glorious Half Dome. Other sections of the park burst with giant sequoia groves and an endless array of wilderness trails, and they are no less sublime.

In for the long haul? Load up that pack and connect the dots from the heart of Yosemite to the pinnacle of Mt Whitney, the highest peak in the contiguous USA. A true adventure, the physically demanding 211-mile John Muir Trail goes step by step up and over six Sierra passes topping 11,000ft. Join other blister-footed obsessives crossing chilly rivers and streams as you traverse Yosemite Valley, the roadless backcountry of Kings Canyon and Sequoia and the oxygen-scarce Whitney summit.

Pay homage to the oldest living things on earth. With some trees estimated to be about 4,000 years old, the gnarled and wind-battered stalwarts of the Ancient Bristlecone Pine Forest have certainly stood the test of time. From Independence, wind your way up the high-altitude road to the White Mountains, stopping midway to admire the distant spiked ridge of the Sierra Nevada and the valley below. At the solar-powered Schulman Grove Visitor Center, get your bearings and catch your breath before admiring these wizened survivors.

But there’s more than natural beauty here. Located in Yosemite Valley and built in the 1920s, The Ahwahnee Hotel is a stunning architectural jewel. Its public spaces, including the dining room with its soaring 34ft high ceilings, are a step back in time. 

Planning tip: A free shuttle service helps visitors get around the park.

2 & 3. Sequoia and Kings Canyon National Parks

Best for backcountry exploring and ancient trees

Joined by a high-altitude roadway bisecting a national forest and contiguous with several wilderness areas, these two parks offer vast stretches of alpine bliss. Groves of giant sequoias, wildflower-strewn meadows, gushing waterfalls, dramatic gorges and spectacular vistas reveal themselves at nearly every turn.

With a dramatic cleft deeper than the Grand Canyon, rugged Kings Canyon offers true adventure to those who crave seemingly endless verdant trails, rushing streams and gargantuan rock formations. The camping, backcountry exploring and climbing here are all superb. Neighboring Sequoia National Park gets all the glory, but Kings Canyon also has groves of enormous sequoias and far less trafficked trails. The canyon’s General Grant Grove is home to a sequoia nicknamed General Grant, the second-largest tree in the world.

Peaks more than 14,000ft high make up other parts of the park, most designated wilderness. Still, Kings Canyon Scenic Byway (Hwy 180; only open end of April to October) twists and bends through some of the most dramatic scenery in California, making the natural bounty accessible to all (all who drive with confidence, that is). The Big Stump Entrance, near Grant Grove Village, is the park’s only entrance station.

As if all that weren’t enough, picture unzipping your tent flap and crawling out into a “front yard” of trees as high as a 20-story building and as old as the Bible: Welcome to Sequoia National Park. Brew some coffee as you plan your day of adventures in this extraordinary place, with its soul-sustaining forests and gigantic peaks soaring above 12,000ft.

Choose to gaze at dagger-sized stalactites in a 100,000-year-old cave, view the largest living tree on earth, climb 350 steps to a granite dome with soaring views of the snow-capped Great Western Divide or drive through a hole in a 2,000-year-old log. All that before you’ve even walked a trail – where the wild scenes (and brief encounters with black bears) will give you goosebumps, charging waterfalls will leave you awestruck and epic overnight backpacking trips will lead you to deserted lakes and idyllic backcountry camps.

4. Death Valley National Park

Best for natural extremes

The very name evokes all that is harsh, hot and hellish –a punishing, barren and lifeless place of Old Testament severity. This is a land of superlatives – hottest, driest and lowest – windswept sand dunes, water-sculpted canyons, extinct volcanic craters, palm-shaded oases and plenty of endemic wildlife. Nature truly puts on a lively show in Death Valley.

Furnace Creek is Death Valley’s commercial hub, home to the national park visitor center, a gas station, ATM, post office and lodging. There’s also a mission-style “town square” with a general store, restaurant, saloon and ice cream and coffee parlor. There’s lodging, gas, a general store, dining, RV and camping options at both Stovepipe Wells Village and Panamint Springs. Places to see around Panamint Springs include the ten beehive-shaped Wildrose Charcoal Kilns built in 1876 for processing silver and lead and Darwin Falls, a spring-fed waterfall. At Stovepipe, cool off in the lodge’s swimming pool.

Planning tip: Park entry permits ($35 per vehicle) are valid for seven days and available from self-service pay stations along the park’s access roads and at the visitor center.

5. Lassen Volcanic National Park

Best for otherworldly landscapes

In the summer, the dry, smoldering, treeless terrain within this 106,000-acre national park stands in stunning contrast to the surrounding cool, green conifer forests. In winter, tons of snow limits how far you can travel inside its borders. Still, entering the park from the southwest entrance is like stepping into another world. The lavascape offers a fascinating glimpse into the earth’s fiery core. In a fuming display, the terrain is marked by roiling hot springs, steamy mud pots, noxious sulfur vents, fumaroles, lava flows, cinder cones, craters and crater lakes. At 10,463ft, Lassen Peak is the world’s largest plug-dome volcano.

Centuries ago, this was a summer encampment and meeting point for Indigenous tribes such as the Atsugewi, Yana, Yahi and Maidu, who hunted deer and gathered plants for basket making. Now their descendants work with the park to educate visitors about their ancient history, traditions and contemporary culture.

Lassen has 150 miles of hiking trails, including a 17-mile section of the Pacific Crest Trail. Experienced hikers can attack the Lassen Peak Trail, whose 5-mile round trip takes at least four-and-a-half hours; the first 1.3-mile stretch, up to the Grandview viewpoint, is suitable for families. The 360-degree view from the top is stunning, even if the weather is a bit hazy. 

Near the Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, a gentler 2.3-mile trail leads through meadows and forest to Mill Creek Falls. Further north on Hwy 89, note the roadside sulfur works with its bubbling mud pots, hissing steam vent, fountains and fumaroles. The moderate 1.5-mile Bumpass Hell trail and boardwalk lead to an active geothermal area with bizarrely colored pools and billowing clouds of steam.

6. Pinnacles National Park

Best for condor sightings

A study in geological drama, this park’s craggy monoliths, sheer-walled canyons and rambling caves are the result of millions of years of erosion. In addition to hiking and rock climbing, the park’s biggest attractions are its two talus caves. Balconies Cave is always open for exploration, while Bear Gulch Cove is generally closed from mid–May to mid–July, when the resident colony of Townsend’s big-eared bats raises their offspring.

The park’s namesake spires form a natural barrier bisecting the park. For the west entrance, exit Hwy 101 at Soledad and follow Hwy 146 northeast for 14 miles; the east entrance is accessed via Hwy 25 from Hollister and Hwy 146. There are visitor centers on both sides. No road connects the two sides of the park, though you can hike across in about an hour. While in the park, watch for endangered California condors circling above.

Planning tip: Pinnacles are best visited during spring or fall since the summer heat can get extreme.

7. Joshua Tree National Park

Best for hypnotic desert vistas

As if from the pages of a Dr Seuss book, whimsical-looking Joshua trees welcome visitors to this 794,000-acre park at the convergence of the Colorado and Mojave Deserts. Rock climbers know “JT” as the best place to climb in California; scrambling up, down and around the giant boulders can be fun for all. Hikers seek out hidden, shady, desert-fan-palm oases fed by natural springs, while mountain bikers are entranced by the desert views. It’s also a great place to camp.

Originally named the humwichawa by the Cahuilla Nation, these unusual trees, a type of yucca, were often used to make rope, baskets and other clothing. When the Mormon settlers came along, they dubbed it the Joshua tree because the branches stretching toward heaven reminded them of the biblical prophet Joshua pointing the way to the promised land. In spring, the trees send up a huge, single, cream-colored flower, while the octopus-like tentacles of the ocotillo cactus shoot out crimson flowers. The mystical quality of this stark, boulder-strewn landscape has inspired many artists, including U2, who spent time here while recording their 1987 album The Joshua Tree. Unless you’re day-tripping from Palm Springs, base yourself in the desert communities linked by 29 Palms Hwy/Hwy 62 along the park’s northern perimeter. 

Joshua Tree, a small community of just over 6,000, serves as a national park hub and has a visitor’s center for the area. If you love old Westerns from the 1940s and 50s, Pioneertown is worth a stop. Designed to look like the 1880s, it’s actually a much newer creation that was developed as a film and TV set.

8. Redwood National Park

Best for looking up

This park is the southernmost of a patchwork of state and federally administered lands under the umbrella of Redwood National and State Parks. Pick up a map at the visitor center and check out the many hiking options. A few miles north along Hwy 101, a trip inland on Bald Hills Rd leads to Lady Bird Johnson Grove, with its 1.5-mile, kid-friendly loop trail. Or enjoy the secluded serenity of Tall Trees Grove where, as the name implies, you’ll find the park’s tallest trees.

To protect Tall Trees Grove, the number of vehicles allowed per day is limited. Pick up the free permits at the visitor center in Orick, then choose your hiking options. There’s the challenging half-day trip that’s a 6-mile rumble on an old logging road followed by a moderately strenuous 4.5-mile round-trip hike. Or try either the 1-mile there-and-back or a 2.5-mile loop, accessed from Davidson Rd at Elk Meadow, to Trillium Falls.

Planning tip: Winter brings high waters prompting the removal of footbridges crossing Redwood Creek. Check with park rangers before hitting the trails.

9. Channel Islands National Park

Best for marine life

The four northern islands of the eight Channel Islands – San Miguel, Santa Rosa, Santa Cruz, Anacapa and tiny Santa Barbara to the south – make up the stunning Channel Islands National Park. It brims with tide pools, kelp forests and a multitude of sea caves, including the largest in North America. It’s also home to almost 150 plant and a few animal species all unique to the island. The chain is accessible by boat from Ventura or Oxnard.

Snorkel, dive, swim and kayak among the kelp beds and along the sandy beaches on Anacapa, Santa Cruz and Santa Rosa islands. San Miguel and Santa Barbara abound with colonies of northern elephant seals.

Planning tip: Beautiful any time of year, the islands receive most visitors between June and September. The best times to visit are during the spring wildflower season (April and May) and in September and October when the fog clears. Winters are often stormy but are ideal for whale-watching.

Other National Park Service-designated sites in California

10. Lava Beds National Monument

Best for geology

Perched on a shield volcano, Lava Beds National Monument is a truly remarkable 47,000-acre landscape of geological features – lava flows, craters, cinder cones, spatter cones and amazing lava tubes. More than 800 caves have been found in the monument, all averaging a comfortable 55°F (13°C) no matter the temperature outside. You can spy Indigenous pictographs and petroglyphs in certain corners of the park, too.

11. Point Reyes National Seashore

Best for crashing waves

A rough-hewn beauty, Point Reyes National Seashore boasts marine mammals and birds, along with scores of shipwrecks. Follow Sir Francis Drake Blvd 20 miles west to the point’s edge-of-the-world lighthouse, the perfect spot for observing migrating whales in winter.

12. Muir Woods National Monument

Best for a taste of nature near the city

The experience of walking amongst the world’s tallest trees can only happen in Northern California and part of southern Oregon. The old-growth redwoods at Muir Woods, just 12 miles north of the Golden Gate Bridge, are the closest redwood stand to San Francisco. For more grandiose redwood forests, travel further north to Mendocino and Humboldt Counties.

Once destined to be felled for a dam, the trees were saved when congressman and naturalist William Kent bought a section of what was then called Redwood Creek. In 1907, he donated 295 acres to the federal government, and a year later, President Theodore Roosevelt made the site a national monument.

13. Devils Postpile National Monument

Best for column-climbing

The most fascinating attraction in Reds Meadow is the surreal volcanic formation of Devils Postpile National Monument. The 60ft curtains of near-vertical, six-sided basalt columns formed when rivers of molten lava slowed, cooled and cracked with perplexing symmetry. This honeycomb design is best appreciated from atop the columns, reached by a short trail, just an easy half-mile hike from the Devils Postpile Ranger Station.

From the monument, a 2.5-mile hike passing through fire-scarred forest leads to the spectacular Rainbow Falls, where the San Joaquin River gushes over a 101ft basalt cliff. 

Planning tip: The chances of actually seeing a rainbow forming in the billowing mist are greatest at midday. The falls can also be reached via an easy 1.5-mile walk from the Reds Meadow area, which has a cafe, a store, the Reds Meadow campground and a pack station. Shuttle services run to the Reds Meadow area in season.

14. Mojave National Preserve

Best for utter solitude and serenity

Suppose you’re on a quest to reach the middle of nowhere. In that case, there’s no better place than the 1.6-million-acre Mojave National Preserve, a jumble of dunes, Joshua trees, volcanic cinder cones and habitats for bighorn sheep, desert tortoises, jackrabbits and coyotes. Whether you spend an entire day or just a few hours exploring the free preserve, enjoy sights like the giant “humming” dunes, an extinct volcano, a huge Joshua-tree forest and sculptured rock walls. The main visitor center, located in an old railroad depot in Kelso, has information and maps.

Planning tip: Daytime temperatures hover above 100°F (37°C) during summer, and plummet to around 50°F (10°C) in winter, when snowstorms can occur. Spring and fall bring strong winds. Gas isn’t available within the preserve.

15. Ansel Adams Wilderness Area

Best for alpine scenery

Abutting Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, June Lake and Inyo National Forest, the lakes, peaks, gorges and glaciers in the Ansel Adams Wilderness Area make Sierra Nevada’s most dramatic alpine destinations.

16. Inyo National Forest

Best for vast forests and high peaks

An enormous region of nearly two million acres of dense forests, high peaks and lakes and nine wilderness areas, Inyo covers a good chunk of California’s Eastern Sierra and White Mountains. Encompassing a vast network of trails and campgrounds, there are ranger stations in Lone Pine, Bishop, Mammoth Lakes and Mono Basin. The Inyo National Forest’s 128,000-acre Hoover Wilderness Area is a backcountry paradise dotted with such stunning sights as Virginia Lakes, Lundy Lake and the high peaks bordering Yosemite to the west.

Keep planning your trip to California

Find the best time to visit California’s national parks.
Visit nine of California’s national parks in one epic journey.
Traveling on a budget? Here are tips on how to save money.

It’s a big world out there. It’s surely snowing somewhere no matter the time of year.

Indeed, thanks to the alternating winters in the northern and southern hemispheres, skiers and snowboarders are able to hit the slopes at any time. If you prefer fresh powder to sand and surf – and you’re willing to travel from Scandinavia to Australia and beyond – here’s a list for chasing winter all year long.

January: Salt Lake City, USA

Skiers and boarders discuss Utah’s voluminous powder snow in rapt tones. State license plates have bragged about “the greatest snow on Earth” since 1985 – and the hype is well founded. Few North American winter-sports hubs enjoy as much snowfall – around 550 inches per season – as the four main resorts clustered around Salt Lake City.

Cold, dry weather gives the snow a buoyant quality, ideal for off-piste antics (not to mention very soft landings). Skiers will revel in the breathtaking views around Alta, while the top pick for snowboarders (who are not allowed at Alta) is vast Snowbird. Meanwhile, wide-open Solitude has a web of challenging black (advanced) runs that will keep even the most experienced skiers engaged.

February: Hokkaidō, Japan

In Hokkaidō, cathedrals of ice and snowy beasts aren’t hallucinations induced by too much sake. Each February, sub-zero sculptures are unveiled at Sapporo Snow Festival. On the mountains, nature crafts its own surreal display: juhyō (snow monsters), formed when trees are blasted with snow and ice, are at their most impressive in February.

Ski past battalions of juhyō at crowd-pleasing resort Sapporo Kokusai, one hour’s drive west of Sapporo city – or (if you’re a pro), thunder across legendary backcountry. Still yearning to face-plant in fluffy snow? Continue southwest to powder capital, Niseko.

March: Whistler, Canada

When the dreaded spring melt sets in at resorts across Europe and North America, skiers in British Columbia continue merrily on the mountains. The 32-sq-km (12 sq-miles) Whistler-Blackcomb groans under 12 meters (39ft) of snowfall each year, which means it’s still at its prime in March.

More than 200 well-groomed pistes wend across the two mountains, with a mile of skiable vertical that dwarfs other North American resorts. To leave fresh tracks in pristine backcountry snow, grab some avalanche gear and a local guide to explore the lonely snowfields of Garibaldi Provincial Park.

April: Obertauern, Austria

Think quaint chalets and pillowy snow are for wimps? Winter travelers who crave wild, windswept terrain should head to Obertauern, 90km (56 miles) south of Salzburg, Austria. From its dizziest heights – around 2350m (7701ft) – you can survey the towering Austrian Alps as you zoom across 100km (62 miles) of pistes; just be sure to bring a balaclava to fend off the biting winds. Obertauern was one of the filming locations for Help!, should that inspire you to belt out Beatles tunes from the bubble lift.

May: Riksgränsen, Sweden

Lying 200km (124 miles) above the Arctic Circle is Sweden’s northernmost winter resort, Riksgränsen. The ski area’s vertical drop, at under 400m (1312ft), can’t compete with other European resorts, but expansive off-piste trails, winding among cloud-like snowdrifts and frost-rimmed forests, more than compensate.

Mix it up by snowshoe trekking around Lake Vassijaure or commanding a fleet of sled dogs, then watch professional shredders in Scandinavia’s Big Mountain Championships. At the end of May, when the sun barely touches the horizon, you’ll need steely willpower to hang up your skis and (try to) sleep.

June: Cardrona, New Zealand

When Europeans and North Americans mournfully shelve their gear for the season, New Zealanders are busy waxing their skis. Cardrona, where the winter season kicks off in mid-June, is nestled prettily in the Southern Alps. Half of its 345-hectare (852-acre) pisted area suits novice and intermediate levels, while seasoned snowheads can somersault around the southern hemisphere’s biggest half-pipe and park facilities. Just 20km (12.4 miles) south, Cardrona Distillery is the perfect place to stock up on après-ski refreshments.

July: Las Leñas, Argentina

Luxury is best served with a sprinkling of powder snow. Premium ski resort Las Leñas gleams out from the Argentine portion of the mighty Andes mountain range. Its slopes climb from 2200m (7218ft) to a vertiginous 3400m (11,155ft), which means you should start slowly to avoid altitude sickness. (There’s no more enjoyable way to adjust than in a lavish spa hotel; Hotel Virgo is the fanciest.) Best of all, you’re in Mendoza wine country, where après-ski involves swishing an inky malbec around your glass while eyeing a menu of succulent steaks.

August: Perisher Valley, Australia

Dispel images of foaming surf and sail-shaped opera houses: New South Wales is home to a small but hardy community of skiers, who make an annual pilgrimage to Perisher, the southern hemisphere’s biggest ski resort. A valley carved among Australia’s Snowy Mountains, Perisher has an altitude (and more than 200 snowmaking machines) to ensure it’s blanketed in the white stuff each August. Snowboard or ski across its 12 sq km (2965 acres), or clamp on some snowshoes to roam the scenic Rock Creek track.

September: Corralco, Chile

Compared to busier ski hubs closer to Santiago, this friendly resort on the southern slopes of Chile’s 2865m-high (9400ft) Lonquimay is blissfully low-key. After the stormy first half of the ski season, August and September in Corralco bring bluer skies and fewer crowds. Its 18 sq km (4450 acres) of snow-lashed terrain is superb for newbie or intermediate skiers and boarders. Only 10km (6 miles) southwest of the resort, the natural hot springs in Malalcahuello beckon to sore limbs.

October: Whakapapa, New Zealand

Fancy snowboarding on an active volcano? Of course you do. Splayed across the northwestern slopes of Mt Ruapehu, Whakapapa is simply superb for groups of mixed ability. There’s a huge area dedicated to learners called Happy Valley, as well as 24 steep “Black Magic” runs for advanced boarders, skiing pros or show-offs with robust travel insurance. Together with sister resort Tūroa, Whakapapa forms New Zealand’s biggest ski area, and boasts the country’s loftiest chairlift, the High Noon Express. Just don’t look down.

November: Ruka, Finland

As southern hemisphere resorts shutter their chalets, northern ones wait anxiously for snowfall: November is the cruelest month for skiers. Luckily, far northern Ruka, a frosty fell in eastern Finland, has 200 days of snow per year, plus snowmaking machines to keep the hills downy and white. Most thrilling are Ruka’s 500km (311 miles) of cross-country skiing and snowmobile trails, threading among forests and frozen lakes.

December: Val Thorens, France

Finish out the year with a flurry of snow in Val Thorens, Europe’s highest ski village. Posing from a 2300m (7546ft) perch in the French Alps, this purpose-built winter-sports retreat accesses the largest linked ski area on the planet, Les Trois Vallées (Three Valleys). Glide down 600km (373 miles) of slopes, schuss more than 300 cross-country trails, and dip into villages like pretty Méribel and low-key Le Praz for hot chocolate. As steam curls from your chocolat chaud (hot chocolate) and you look out on a panorama of mountains piercing the clouds, you might find yourself dreaming ahead to another full year of wintry adventures.

In Switzerland, the mountains call. One look at this ravishing land of skyscraping peaks, glaciers, forests and lakes of piercing blue will have you itching to sling on a backpack, zip up to the heights and hit the trail.

You certainly won’t be alone. The Swiss seem to be born with one leg up a mountain – which means hiking is the fast track to the nation’s nature-loving soul. This being Switzerland, even the trails leading you deep into the country’s wildest, remotest corners are diligently marked, and almost every inch of the country is precisely mapped.

Switzerland? Little? Not for hikers it isn’t. As the Swiss delight in reminding you, the country’s 62,500km (38,836 miles) of trails would be enough to wrap around the globe 1.5 times. Alpine hikers fall hard for the high-level trails in the Bernese Oberland and Graubünden, which notch up the challenge and floor you with phenomenal scenery. Yet lowland areas like the vineyards of Valais and the gently rolling hills of Appenzell are equally atmospheric and accessible virtually all year long.

Picking Switzerland’s best hikes is kid-in-a-candy-shop stuff. Still, here are nine favorites to whet your appetite.

1. Faulhornweg

Best day hike
15km (9.3 miles) one way, 5 hours, moderate

Mother Nature pulled out all the stops in the Bernese Oberland, and the Faulhornweg might be the best day hike to take it all in. This moderately challenging ridge hike throws you in the scenic deep end. Beginning and ending on a high, you’ll take in the full glittering sweep of Lakes Thun and Brienz as you trudge from Schynige Platte to First, and colossal peaks like the dagger-shaped Wetterhorn and the big three of Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau.

Navigation-wise, the trail is easy enough to follow. From Schynige Platte, the walk eases you in gently, heading over rolling pastures before rising more abruptly to scree slopes, boulder-strewn passes and high moors. You’ll make a steeply rising traverse along a broad ledge between stratified cliffs to the ridge of Winteregg, before turning off to the summit of 2681m (8796ft) Faulhorn. Here you’re in for a treat, with 360-degree views reaching across a sea of mountains to the Black Forest in Germany and Vosges in France on clear days.

Local tip: Keep an eye out for marmots as you descend to the grassy basin of the Bachalpsee, where a steel-blue lake contrasts starkly with the ice-shrouded peaks of Wetterhorn, Schreckhorn and Finsteraarhorn.

2. Lakes of Macun

Best hike in a national park
22km (14 miles) one way, 8 hours, moderate

For a glimpse of the Swiss Alps before the dawn of tourism, there’s no place like the nature-gone-wild Swiss National Park in The Engadine in Graubünden, where Switzerland muscles its way into Italy. Squished into a remote corner of the country’s southeast, this off-the-radar national park punches high on every level. It’s often so silent that the only sound you’ll hear is that of your own footsteps.

Of all the trails threading through the wilds, this demanding full-day hike from Lavin to Zernez has the edge, weaving up to the glacial cirque of Macun, necklaced with almost two dozen lakes of sapphire, azure and turquoise blue. The snow-capped Bernese, Silvretta and Ortler Alps hog the horizon. Ibex are in their element in these peaks, and with luck and patience you might spot them. The trail becomes tougher, rockier and more exposed as you ascend steep slopes to Fuorcletta da Barcli, a gap in the range at 2850m (9350ft), with top-of-the-world views. The descent to Zernez leads through avalanche grids to meet an Alpine track, twisting through forest to reach Zernez, where you can either stay the night or take the train back to Lavin.

Planning tip: Getting an early start is essential. The walk requires sure-footedness and a good head for heights because some sections are lofty and exposed. Snowfields can linger into summer on the upper reaches.

3. Gemmi Pass

Best hike over a mountain pass
13km (8 miles) one way, 5 hours, challenging

If you think hiking the Gemmi Pass is tough today, spare a thought for those first intrepid travelers who crossed it as part of Thomas Cook’s first forays into the Swiss Alps in 1863. Linking the Valaisian spa resort of Leukerbad to the cute-as-a-button Alpine resort of Kandersteg in the Bernese Oberland, the hike is easily doable in a day, but nevertheless presents a proper challenge, as it involves 1050m (3445ft) of ascent through stark, rocky and at times steep and exposed mountains.

Your reward for the effort to reach the pass is bleakly beautiful lake Daubensee at 2205m (7234ft) and a clifftop lookout platform next to Wildstrubel Restaurant, floating 900m (2953ft) above the valley and affording top-of-the-beanstalk views of the high, perennially snow-frosted mountains of Valais, which hover around the 4000m (13,123ft) mark. At lower elevations, the trail weaves through flower-freckled pastures. Afterward, hop back on the train to Leukerbad to give your feet a soaking in its thermal hot springs, which have views out to the peaks.

Planning tip: While the path is safe and well maintained, be sure to check the forecast before you venture up.

4. Via Alpina

Best multi-day hike
390km (242 miles) one way, 20 days, challenging

The Via Alpina is the big one: an epic 20-stage trek that takes you from the castle-topped principality of Liechtenstein in the east to Montreux, dreamily set on the shores of Lake Geneva, in the west. Embarking on the whole thing is a serious undertaking: you’ll need to be sure-footed, have a head for heights and experience in navigating using a map and compass because you’ll be grappling with 14 Alpine passes. The highest of these is Hohtürli at 2778m (9114ft) in the Bernese Oberland, reached via a steep wooden ladder hacked into the rock face and secured with iron chains.

The descent is no less dramatic, dropping more than 1000m (3281ft) to Lake Oeschinen above Kandersteg, a celestial vision of cerulean blue ringed by snow-streaked mountains and fed by the glacial waters of the Blüemlisalp peaks.

Via Alpina is a proper journey into remote wilderness, with nights spent camping beneath starry skies or at rustic mountain huts, plentiful chances to spot wildlife like chamois, ibex and golden eagles, wild swims and entrancing sunrises and sunsets.

Planning tip: The route requires some advance planning and is best hiked from June to September, dodging the snow and wet or foggy conditions with bad visibility.

5. Aletsch Glacier route

Best hike on a glacier
17km (10.5 miles) one way, 6 hours, challenging

Switzerland bombards you with out-of-this-world scenery, and few places leave you speechless like the Aletsch Glacier, a moraine-streaked, deeply crevassed 23km(14-mile)-long superhighway of ice powering through some of the highest mountains in the country. You can’t quite suppress the gasp of wonder while hiking alongside the largest glacier in the Alps, particularly on a sunny day when great daggers of peaks razor 4000m (13,123ft) above the ice into a searingly blue sky.

Hands down one of the most astonishing day hikes in Switzerland, this route takes you from Fiescheralp to Bettmeralp, with front-row views of the Aletsch Arena peaks. The Fieschergletscher is the prelude to the big one. Snaking down from the eastern flank of Grosses Fiescherhorn, a razor-edge peak at 4049m (13,284ft), this 16km (10-mile) swirl of eternal ice is the second-biggest glacier in the Alps. From here, the route winds around slopes and up through a rock-strewn gully, gradually steepening as it negotiates switchbacks up to a remote valley, its mountain hut and Märjelensee, a milky turquoise splash of a lake buttressed by immense mountains and the rim of the Aletsch Glacier.

The Aletsch Glacier is now your constant companion, as the trail skirts the deeply crevassed ice. Swiss stone pine forest and glittering tarns soften the Alpine picture as you continue along a ridge to the grassy slopes of Moosfluh, where a strategically placed bench offers staggering glacier views. Soon after, you’ll reach the glass-blue lake of Blausee. From here, it is just a stone’s throw to Bettmeralp.

6. Rigi Panorama Trail

Best accessible hike
7km (4 miles) one way, 2 hours, easy

JMW Turner was so smitten by Rigi that in 1842 he painted the mountain in three different lights to reflect its changing moods. Flinging up above fjord-like Lake Lucerne, the 1797m/5896ft-high peak still has a magic touch today, especially when seen in the pink blush of sunrise or sunset. On a clear day you can see all the way to Mt Titlis, the glacier-encrusted Jungfrau Alps and Lake Zug.

Following a wide path that shadows the old Scheidegg Railway, this wheelchair- and stroller-accessible ridge trail from Rigi First to Rigi Scheidegg beautifully opens up the surrounding lakes, cow-grazed pastures and mountains, with plenty of options to pause for a picnic or barbecue en route.

Planning tip: Some sections are steep for wheelchairs (you’ll need good brakes), but there are options to shorten the trail should you so wish.

7. Höhenweg Höhbalmen

Best hike at altitude
18km (11 miles) round trip, 7 hours, moderate

Matterhorn is the mountain you can’t stop gawping at – and this circular hike in Zermatt gets you up close and personal to the beauty.

The trail threads up through larch forest on the ascent, making broad switchbacks above the Triftbach Gorge. From here, it’s a stiff uphill march to Berggasthaus Trift, at the foot of its namesake glacier, where you stay overnight to split the hike into two days if you wish.

The onward hike takes you over flower-flecked Alpine meadows, zigzagging up grassy slopes to climb onto the high balcony of Höhbalmenstaffel, where a riveting panorama unfolds. Heading west, the route traverses narrowing ledges that get astonishingly close to the north face of Matterhorn to reach Schwarzläger, the walk’s highest point at 2741m (8993ft).

From here, it’s a steady descent over the sparse mountainsides of Arben. The path winds down to meet a more prominent walking track alongside the high lateral moraine wall left by the receding Zmutt Glacier. Follow this down in zigzags through glacial rubble and continue along gentler terraces to the photogenic hamlet of Zmutt and then back to Zermatt.

Planning tip: Pick a good-weather day and get an early start for this full-day trek, which embodies all that is unique about the Swiss Alps, leading you into another world of glittering streams, crevassed glaciers and 4000 peaks. Weather permitting, Höhenweg Höhbalmen is hikeable from June to October.

8. Kronberg Treasure Hunt Trail

Best hike for families
7km (4 miles) round trip, 3 hours, easy

Rippling across northeastern Switzerland, the under-the-radar Appenzell Alps are a surefire winner with families. You’ll walk to the backbeat of cowbells through rolling dairy country and flower-freckled meadows. The mountains are easily accessible for those with small legs, and the towns look freshly minted for a bedtime story, with their timber-framed, prettily muralled houses.

A cable car swings up from Jakobsbad to the 1663m (5456ft) summit of Kronberg, the trailhead for this terrific family hike, which skips back down the mountain and presents challenges and clues leading to the “treasure.”

Planning tip: If you want to make a day of it, you can ramp up the adventure in the valley at the water park, adventure playground, zip-line course and bobsled run.

9. Bisse de Clavau

Best hike through vineyards
8km (5 miles) round trip, 4 hours, easy

Gentle walking trails tread quietly through staggeringly steep terraced vineyards in Valais, producer of Switzerland’s most feted wines, with many vignerons throwing open their cellar doors for tasting and buying. There’s no better place to walk, taste and appreciate the grape than Sion, with its cinematic twinset of castles and raft of gourmet addresses.

And there’s far more to hiking around Sion than enticing strolling between grape-heavy vines. What makes trails in this part of the Rhône Valley unique are the bisses, miniature canals built in the 13th century to irrigate these vertiginous terraced vineyards hemmed by stone walls. This half-day hike between Sion and St-Léonard is a treat, shadowing the Bisse de Clavau, a 550-year-old irrigation channel that carries water to the thirsty, sun-drenched vineyards and commanding grandstand views of hilltop chateaux, the snaking River Rhône and the not-so-distant Alps.

Pause to sample Valaisian Dôle (red) and Fendant (white) wines, perhaps over lunch at Le Cube Varone, an old winegrower’s hut. The hike is never lovelier than on a golden fall day when the grape harvest is in full swing, when you can enjoy a brisolée, the traditional harvest feast built around chestnuts, cheese, cold meats and vin nouveau (new wine).

It’s time to get your soak on. Although all 50 states have natural hot springs, the western half of the USA is home to some of the best natural hot springs in the country. From comfortable resorts that revolve around effervescing pools of hot water to remote thermal springs only accessible by snowmobile or dogsled, read on for a rundown of some of these hot spots for a safe, au naturel wellness experience catered by Mother Nature.

1. Iron Mountain Hot Springs, Colorado 

Average water temperature: Between 96 and 108°F 

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive 180 miles west from Denver along Interstate 70 through the Rocky Mountains to reach the town of Glenwood Springs. 

Overlooking the mighty Colorado River in the historic town of Glenwood Springs, Iron Mountain Hot Springs offers a more intimate and varied soaking experience than the nearby (and better known) Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, home to the world’s largest hot springs pool. You can choose your own adventure at the 16 geothermal mineral soaking pools here (ages 5 and up only), all connected by heated walkways. Or take younger kids to the family pool and adjacent jetted spa, where the water hovers around the 100°F mark.

All of the property’s mineral pools are fed from on-site springs, with no chemicals added. Called Mother Lode, the hottest mineral pool maxes out at around 108°F (there are markers outside each pool to let you know the heat intensity to expect). You can tickle your toes in reflexology pools with smooth river rocks at the bottom. And for the best views, look for the Garnet and Diamond pools, which have infinity edges and hang over the river in a way that might make you feel like you’re actually soaking in it.

Planning tip: Visit on a weekday at 9am, just when the springs open, for the most peaceful and crowd-free experience.

2. Homestead Crater, Utah 

Average water temperature: Between 90 and 96°F 

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive 51 miles (less than an hour) southeast of Salt Lake City to reach Homestead Crater Mineral Dome. 

As long as you’re okay with a hot-spring soak that’s not as hot as most of them (temperatures max out around “just” 96°F here), Utah’s Homestead Crater definitely delivers the biggest range of on-site experiences of any hot springs we know. Here, you not only can float in womb-like waters but also scuba dive in them (if you’re certified), snorkel and even try some SUP yoga within the beehive-shaped dome of the hot springs’ natural limestone setting.

It’s an otherworldly location for wellness, to be sure, bolstered by naturally present calcium and sodium bicarbonate in the geothermal waters that are said to soothe muscles and promote relaxation. The hole at the top of the crater lets in sunlight and fresh air, setting the scene for some pretty spectacular photos, too. 

Planning tip: For the best photos, plan your visit for spring or summer when there’s less steam inside the crater and you can be sure to photograph its impressive interior expanse with good visibility all around.

3. Castle Hot Springs, Arizona

Average water temperature: Bubbles up at 115°F, with pools maintaining temperatures between 85 and 106°F

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive about 55 miles (roughly one hour) northwest of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport to reach the resort and hot springs.  

Tucked into a scenic canyon in the Bradshaw Mountains just an hour from Phoenix, Castle Hot Springs has been luring tourists since the late 1800s – and Indigenous peoples for far longer – with its healing waters. Now an all-inclusive luxury wellness resort, this destination is well worth an overnight stay, thanks to exceptional stargazing at night, a thrilling onsite Via Ferrata adventure course and (naturally) 24-hour access to mineral hot springs that cascade across three pools of varying temperatures.

Open to resort guests only, the geothermal hot springs here are rich in calcium and nerve-calming magnesium as well as lithium, which has been called the “happy mineral” for its mood-stabilizing properties. Take a soak surrounded by towering saguaro cacti, palms and layer upon layer of weather-worn rock, colored purple and rusty red from the spring’s mineral content. 

Planning tip: After a long hike on the property, soak in the hot springs to ease muscle soreness and joint pain. Bicarbonates in the water help remove lactic acid from your muscles. To have the hot springs to yourself, arrive before 6am or around 8pm, when other guests are likely still asleep or at dinner.

4. Chena Hot Springs, Alaska 

Average water temperature: Outdoor pools average about 106°F

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Fly to Fairbanks and drive (or take the resort’s shuttle) 62 miles northeast to Chena Hot Springs. 

If there’s any state in the US that naturally begs you to seek out a hot spring, it’s Alaska. And one of the most famous ones in the state is found 150 miles south of the Arctic Circle, near Fairbanks, at Chena Hot Springs. If your luck holds here during the darker months of the year, from late August through late April, you might even get lucky and catch the northern lights swirling overhead while you soak.

An indoor pool offers cooler waters, yet the steamier outdoor wading lake – supplied by geothermal waters with no added chemicals and surrounded by boulders – is far and away the most spectacular spot to dip. The sandy bottom is comfortable on your feet, and you can push along the bottom or stroll the lake until you find a spot with the perfect temperature. 

Planning tip: While there’s lodging onsite at the hot springs, there are better places to stay in and around Fairbanks. (We love Borealis Basecamp.)

5. Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs, Colorado 

Average water temperature: Pools range from 93 to 104°F 

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive 208 miles (4 hours) west of Denver International Airport to reach Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs.

You can come as a day-tripper or stay the night in adorable cabins (including the Chuck Wagon, which sleeps only two people and sits atop actual wheels) at this inimitable hot springs resort in Colorado’s sublime Crystal River Valley. Surrounded by mountains in the White River National Forest, Avalanche Ranch Hot Springs has three hot-spring pools on the property of varying sizes – all of which cascade, waterfall-like, down the mountainside. If you’re staying at the property, access to the hot springs is included in your nightly rate and you can access the pools around the clock. 

Planning tip: The ranch hot springs are closed for cleaning on Wednesdays, but you can carve out your own little pool to sit and soak right on the banks of the Crystal River at Penny Hot Springs, just south of the cute town of Carbondale. 

6. Orvis Hot Springs, Colorado 

Average water temperature: Outdoor pools average about 106°F

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: It’s a roughly 292-mile drive southwest of Denver International Airport, through Gunnison and Montrose, to reach Orvis Hot Springs. 

Ten indoor and outdoor soaking pools beckon uninhibited lovers of lithium-infused water to this clothing-optional oasis just north of Ouray in southwestern Colorado. Water temperatures in the various pools at Orvis Hot Springs run the range from a nippy 65°F to a steamy 114°F in the “lobster pot,” so you can try alternating hot and cold dips if you really want to get your blood flowing.

The hot springs were long on the radar of the Tabeguache band of the Utes, who considered the spot a sacred healing destination. Today, it’s a free-spirited crowd that largely chooses to take the waters – sans cover-ups. Note: if you’re worried about where your gaze might wander in this liberating environment, it will be hard to resist…the views of the gorgeous San Juan Mountain views all around. 

Planning tip: After a long soak, splurge on a massage inside one of the onsite yurts.

7. Hot Springs State Park, Wyoming 

Average water temperature: The water in the bathhouse hot spring is 104°F

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive 85 miles (1.5 hours) southeast of Cody, Wyoming to reach Hot Springs State Park. 

What’s better than a hot spring surrounded by nature in a state park? Free-entry hot springs surrounded by nature in a state park. That’s right: there’s no one taking tickets or sliding your credit card to access the Wyoming State Bath House at Hot Springs State Park in Thermopolis, Wyoming. Indoor and outdoor mineral hot springs flow up from the earth at 128°F and are cooled to 104°F for visitors’ therapeutic bathing benefit. Of course, you have to first get to Hot Springs State Park, in the remote north-central reaches of the state. It’s well worth the trek not only to enjoy the springs at the bathhouse and see the too-hot springs flowing along the Big Horn River but to spot big-horned animals, too – the park is home to a managed herd of bison that can be easily observed. 

Planning tip: Find your way to Ava’s Silver and Rock Shop in Thermopolis to shop for a mind-boggling range of rocks, minerals and fossils – all at largely affordable prices. 

8. Benton Hot Springs, California 

Average water temperature: The water comes out at 140°F; adjustable in individual pools

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: On the border with Nevada, the hot springs are most easily reached by flying into Las Vegas and driving 282 miles (roughly 4.5 hours) northwest. 

Camping alongside your own private hot spring-fed-soaking tub with spectacular views? We’re into it. The 11 private hot spring-fed soaking pools at Benton Hot Springs in California’s Mono County are available for overnight rentals and sit astride your own picnic table and fire pit for roasting s’mores post-soaking session. Feel free to pitch a tent (or show up in an RV or camper) for the night to linger longer and enjoy the dark skies overhead. (There’s an inn here with a few rustic rooms, too, but camping is where it’s at).

Each of the private hot tubs has a different look and views – some are elevated, others sunken into the ground – but they’re all fed with natural hot spring water that flows into the pools at 140°F, which you can adjust to a tolerable feel with your tub’s hoses. 

Planning tip: There’s no restaurant on site, so if you’re not into campfire cooking, drive roughly 40 miles (40 minutes) south to Bishop, where Mountain Rambler Brewery serves up excellent burgers and craft beers.

9. Tolovana Hot Springs, Alaska 

Average water temperature: Between 125 and 145°F, then cooled for soaking

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Arrive by helicopter from Borealis Basecamp in Fairbanks, on dog-sledding tours or, during the summer, by hiking just over 10 miles from a trailhead some 100 miles by car from Fairbanks.

Whereas Chena tends to draw the aurora-seeking masses to its sprawling outdoor hot pool, this more remote Alaskan hot-spring destination, 45 miles as the crow (or helicopter) flies north of Fairbanks, makes you earn it – which means hiking or flying in during the summer months, or arriving by dogsled or on skis when it’s snowy. As you might imagine, arriving by dog sled at Tolovana Hot Springs pretty much takes the cake. You can head out with Arctic Dog Aventure Co. to reach the springs on multi-night dog sledding expeditions that promise one awesome adventure (and often the northern lights, too).

Borealis Basecamp can also get you to the hot springs on day trips by helicopter, which is equally splendid. The hot springs come out of the earth at between 125 and 145°F, and you soak to enjoy them in small, hot-tub-like pools. Yet what makes this place special is being deep in the wilderness of northern Alaska, so comfortable in such very wild surroundings. 

Planning tip: If you dare, be brave and take it all off. The skin feel is exceptional. And when are you ever going to find yourself in such a remote place for hot spring hopping again?

10. Burgdorf Hot Springs, Idaho 

Average water temperature: Between 96 and 113°F 

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive 138 miles (roughly three hours) north of Boise through the mountains of the Payette National Forest to reach the hot springs. 

Topping the list of Idaho’s most epic and historic hot springs, Burgdorf Hot Springs is on the National Register of Historic Places and delivers a true western experience. Open to guests who overnight in the rustic collection of onsite cabins as well as day visitors who register their visits in advance, the springs are surrounded by the lodgepole-pine-covered slopes of the Salmon River Mountains and original wooden structures built by miners in the 1800s.

Hot water gushes up from the ground at 130 gallons per minute into the hottest soaking pools – called lobster pots – from which you’ll emerge pink as a cooked crustacean. For a soaking experience where you’re likely to last longer, float with a pool noodle in the larger, pebble-bottomed main pool, which is cooler but still plenty balmy – and let the natural lithium work its magic. 

Planning tip: While the hot springs are open year-round, they see far fewer crowds during the winter months and early spring (December to April), when the road is closed to car traffic and most visitors arrive by snowmobile or on skis. 

11. Durango Hot Springs, Colorado 

Average water temperature: Between 99 and 112°F

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive 345 miles southwest from Denver, or fly into Durango-La Plata County Airport and drive 23 miles north.

Located in the southwest corner of Colorado just minutes from the city of Durango, the newly redesigned and expanded Durango Hot Springs Resort + Spa features a whopping 32 hot springs pools. Previously known as Trimble Hot Springs, the hot springs may have a new name and look, but it also has a long history dating back to the Ancient Puebloans and Ute people.

The variety of experiences offered at Durango Hot Springs is what makes it one of the best hot springs in Colorado. From a 25-meter pool to cold plunges and private Japanese-inspired soaking tubs, there are plenty of relaxation opportunities for families, couples and solo travelers accompanied by breathtaking mountain views. Once you’ve dried off, guests can enjoy spa treatments and live music.

Planning tip: The hot springs resort doesn’t currently have lodging, but there are plenty of historic hotels to stay at just nine miles south in downtown Durango, like the Strater Hotel or General Palmer Hotel.

12. Yellowstone Hot Springs, Montana 

Average water temperature: Between 98 and 105°F in the hot springs and 60 to 65°F in the cold plunge

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Fly into Bozeman Yellowstone International Airport and drive east on Interstate 90 for about 30 miles. Then go south on US-89 for about 45 miles.

Drive about 10 minutes north of Yellowstone National Park to Yellowstone Hot Springs, which contrary to its name, is not part of the national park. The family-friendly hot springs are open 12 hours daily except Monday. The facility has three pools, including a cold plunge, in close proximity for easy access. Plus, you can take in mountain and river views from the warm, relaxing springs.

Planning tip: The springs don’t take reservations. However, admission covers the entire day, so you can come and go to avoid the crowds.

13. Umpqua Hot Springs

Average water temperature: Between 100 and 115°F

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Drive about 250 miles (4 hours) south of Portland International Airport on Interstate 5 South.

One of the best hot springs in Oregon, Umpqua Hot Springs is for those who want to be immersed in nature. The springs are located in Umpqua National Forest, and you’ll need to hike a mile from your car – that is, if you can get one of the 10 parking spots available. Be sure to check the status of the hot springs trailhead before planning your visit, especially during the winter. 

Your hard work will be worth it once you reach the natural hot spring’s Instagram-famous cascading pools with wooded views. To make the remarkable experience even more worth your time, you’ll only have to pay $5 to use the springs.

Planning tip: While you don’t need to worry about safety at a regularly maintained hot spring, you’ll need to tread carefully at Umpqua Hot Springs as the surfaces around the springs can get slick. Also, be sure to bring water to stay hydrated.

14. Quinn’s Hot Springs

Average water temperature: Between 100 and 106°F

Fastest way to get to the hot springs: Fly into the Missoula Montana Airport, then drive west on I-90 for about 62 miles. Turn onto MT-135 W in St. Regis, following the road for 20 miles until you get to the hot springs.

If you want to stay, eat and soak at a hot springs resort that has it all, then head to Quinn’s Hot Springs northwest of Missoula in the appropriately named Paradise, Montana. The resort has five hot springs pools, two salt-treated pools and one cold plunge.

The mountain-shrouded hot springs are both mesmerizing and affordable at $20 during the week and $22 Friday through Sunday. You can also stay overnight on the property in one of the two lodges or 25 cabins, with views of the mountains or river. After a soak, treat yourself to a glass of wine and a gourmet dinner at the onsite restaurant or a pint at the cozy tavern.

Planning tip: If you’re not staying on the property, you must book a reservation in advance. Reservations are also recommended for the restaurant, Harwood House Restaurant.

Nashville may be best known as the home of country music, but this dynamic city contains multitudes of great things to do. Catch up-and-coming talent on intimate stages. Tour the Grand Ole Opry. Dine at some of the South’s best restaurants. Explore the city’s history, join the crowds listening to music in the streets and bars or hike through gorgeous wetlands bursting with wildlife.

Here’s our guide to the best things to do in Nashville.

1. Make a pilgrimage to the Mother Church of Country Music

The Ryman Auditorium is Nashville’s premier music venue – this historic stage was the original home of the Grand Ole’ Opry and where superstars like Dolly Parton, Hank Williams and Johnny Cash jump-started their careers. Today it continues to welcome an impressive roster of country royalty, indie artists and internationally renowned speakers to its hallowed halls.

2. Discover Nashville rock ‘n’ roll at Basement East

Nashville may be known for its country scene, but Music City rocks hard. If you’re more into electric guitars than banjos, head to the Basement East. This local venue survived an encounter with a 2020 tornado and continues to churn out high-energy shows ranging from national touring acts to local cover bands. And if you’re lucky, one of Nashville’s rock elite just may make a surprise guest appearance.

3. Explore the artsy neighborhood of Wedgewood-Houston

This former industrial area is experiencing a major boom, but luckily it’s managed to hold on to some of the quirkiness that originally made it a haven for Nashville’s local art scene.

Edgy galleries like Zeitgeist and the Packing Plant commingle with unique bars – Diskin Cider, Flamingo Cocktail Club and Never Never, to name a few – and a growing number of delicious restaurants. Stop by on the first Saturday of every month for the neighborhood’s buzzy art crawl.

Detour: Just because Nashville loves its down-home cooking doesn’t mean it doesn’t appreciate inventive high-end food, and the kitchen at Bastion delivers one of the best chef-curated tasting menus in the city.

4. Catch an MLS game at the new Geodis Park

Nashville’s newly minted Major League Soccer team has shown that this southern city embraces all versions of football. Locals show up en masse to cheer on the Coyotes at the sparkling new Geodis Park; come decked out in team colors and revel in a spirited night of soccer alongside a raucous crowd.

5. Learn about music history at the National Museum of African American Music

Black music has been – and continues to be – the driving force behind the American music scene at large, and this expertly curated museum takes you through the history of these contributions, from jazz and blues to today’s rock and hip-hop scenes. Expect a hands-on approach – you can record yourself singing with a gospel choir, compose your own blues ballad or even participate in a virtual dance battle.

6. Go for a float on the Harpeth River

Nashville is a river city crisscrossed by large water thoroughfares and a circulatory system of smaller rivers and creeks. You can find some relief from the southern heat by paddling your way down the Harpeth River, an easygoing waterway perfect for lazy floats in the sun. If you’ve got your own boat, you can access the river at several different locations in and around Harpeth River State Park; if you need to rent a vessel, try booking with Foggy Bottom Canoe or Canoe Music City.

Planning tip: Always check the forecast for the day before your outing – heavy rains can make the water levels rise to dangerous levels. Follow Foggy Bottom or Canoe Music City on social media for updates on weather-related closures.

7. Listen to the next big thing at the Bluebird’s famous songwriter rounds

Even before the show Nashville made it a household name, the Bluebird Cafe has been a legendary locale for singer-songwriter rounds featuring the best of the best – Garth Brooks, Taylor Swift and Keith Urban all graced this stage before they hit it big. It’s all about the listening experience at this bar-restaurant, which puts audiences up close with both rising and established talent.

Planning tip: The Bluebird’s storied status makes it a hot ticket – always book ahead.

8. Take a hike at one of Nashville’s green spaces

Nashville may be an urban metropolis, but it’s also a place that values its green spaces. Head to Percy and Edwin Warner Parks to clock some miles on trails that feel far more remote than you’d think, or walk the extensive greenway at Shelby Bottoms, alongside East Nashville families. If you’re a wildlife fan, don’t skip Radnor Lake State Park, a striking nature reserve home to critters like barred owls, bald eagles, beavers, turtles and wild turkeys.

Planning tip: Outdoor Nashville is so much fun to explore, but be careful during the hot months of July and August – temperatures and humidity levels soar and can be dangerous. Always bring water with you.

9. Learn to salsa dance at Plaza Mariachi

Managed by the Hispanic Family Foundation, this cultural center/music venue/food hall hosts everything from mariachi concerts to ballet folkórico performances to thumping DJ sets, but our favorite is the Bailamos party. Come early to learn salsa, bachata and merengue, and then test out your new skills on the dance floor the rest of the night.

Detour: Nashville is home to the country’s largest Kurdish community, and just across the street from Plaza Mariachi you’ll find Edessa Restaurant serving Kurdish and Turkish cuisine. Order the kabob festival for an indulgent culinary journey you won’t soon forget.

10. Admire exhibitions at Nashville’s art deco treasure, the Frist Art Museum

At the center of Nashville’s thriving art scene sits the Frist Art Museum, a stunning space featuring rotating art exhibitions that range from exuberant contemporary installations to mid-century Italian concept cars to illustrated medieval textbooks. Housed in an art deco–era post office, this museum also hosts art workshops, live music events, lectures series and more.

11. Support local at Honeytree Meadery

Local businesses are Nashville’s beating heart, and the network of friendly folks working at and with Honeytree Meadery exemplify the camaraderie that can be found among business owners here. Their perfectly balanced mead is made with honey from East Nashville beekeepers; a favorite is the Flower Garden, a floral take on the old classic made with tea from local herbal experts High Garden, who lost their building across the street during the 2020 tornado.

If you’re hungry, snag a delectable creation from Alebrije truck parked out front, specializing in Mexico-City-style tacos made with heirloom corn tortillas.

12. Test your taste buds at Prince’s Hot Chicken

Nashville Hot Chicken is an institution, and it all started with Prince’s, the city’s original hot-chicken shop. Still run by the great-niece of the founder, Prince’s brings the heat. Go easy with mild spice or give it all you’ve got with XXX hot – either way, you’ll be indulging in a quintessentially Nashville experience.

13. Join a dance party at the Blue Room

Part of Third Man Records’ headquarters – owned by Nashville’s most eccentric frontman, Jack White of the White Stripes and the Raconteurs – the Blue Room is a surreal art space/bar that hosts poetry readings, theater performances, film screenings and curated dance parties. It also features a cool “infinity wall,” a giant (fake) elephant head and a lush outdoor space, making an atmospheric setting for a night out.

Detour: Just around the corner from Third Man and the Blue Room is Tennessee Brew Works, one of the few local breweries that has truly nailed the art of having both excellent beer and excellent food. Open mics and live music also hit the small stage throughout the week – we love Bluegrass Wednesdays.

14. Watch the sunset from a downtown rooftop

Nashville’s ever-growing skyline is home to a number of spectacular rooftop bars delivering 360-degree views of Music City, each one with its own distinct personality. Channel your inner rockstar at the Bobby Hotel rooftop lounge, check out the latest themed pop-up at the Fairlane or swim in the infinity pool of the L27 Rooftop Lounge.

Detour: Nashville has bars in the sky – and bars down below. Seek out the Noelle’s Hidden Bar for a magical treat.

15. Tour the famous RCA Studio B

Now a branch of the Country Music Hall of Fame, RCA Studio B is a must-see for anyone interested in Nashville’s music history – you can tour the birthplace of what became known as the Nashville Sound, a particular recording style that highlighted background vocals and string instruments. Industry titans like Dolly Parton and Elvis Presley recorded some of their biggest hits here.

16. Rollin’ on the Cumberland River

Take a four–hour journey down the Cumberland River aboard the General Jackson Showboat, the country’s largest paddle-wheel boat. The 274-foot boat which can accommodate up to 1000 passengers is named after the first steamboat to navigate the Cumberland River in 1817. Covering all the bases when it comes to entertainment, the General Jackson Showboat features a variety of cruise offerings. Dinner theater with live music, scenic cruises, and holiday shows (think New Year’s Eve and Merry Christmas City) take place in the two-story Victorian theater.

17. Explore the largest home built in pre-Civil War Tennessee

In an era where women were restricted in their ability to work, earn a decent wage or even engage in business, Adelicia Acklen became the wealthiest woman in Tennessee.

Belmont, her magnificent pink mansion accented with white trim and green shutters, was the largest house in Tennessee prior to the Civil War and took ten years to complete in 1853. Located on the campus of Belmont University Campus in the hip Belmont-Hillsboro Neighborhood, many of the rooms feature period and original furnishings, drawing visitors even more into the feel of the home’s past.

But there is more to the story than just an opulently furnished, confection-like home and a shrewd businesswoman. Mansions like these prospered because of the enslaved people who toiled there. Through much research, their stories at Belmont are also emerging, providing a more comprehensive lesson in history.

Planning tip: Take time to stroll through the Belmont-Hillsboro Neighborhood. Close to Vanderbilt University and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s a wonderful mix of Victorian-era mansions and fun restaurants and shops.

18. Savor French–Italian fare on 4th Avenue

Margot Cafe & Bar is a standout even on this stretch of 4th Avenue in Nashville’s cool Five Points neighborhood known for its trendy eating spots and one-of-a-kind boutique shopping. Founder Margot MacCormick was a 2019 James Beard Foundation Semifinalist for Outstanding Chef and her two–story restaurant with its gallery overlooking the first–floor bar and outdoor patio is always abuzz with serious food–seekers enjoying the take on local cuisine with French and Italian vibes. The menu changes frequently, giving visitors even more of a reason to come back.

19. Bring the kids to Cheekwood Estate and Gardens

A lovely house museum and botanical gardens, Cheekwood is considered among the best of the American Country Era estates—the time between 1890 and 1930 when the wealth of Americans exploded because of the Industrial Revolution. The former home of Leslie and Mabel Cheek, the many rooms of the 30,000-square-foot mansion showcase furnishings and art original to the house. The surrounding 55-acres of cultivated gardens, divided into 13 distinct garden areas, are a lush accompaniment to the home’s stately beauty. There’s also a 1.5 woodland trail and statue garden to explore.

But what makes this estate even more unique is that it’s family-friendly with programs like the Enchanted Express, a garden railroad, hands-on art activities, summer camps and storytelling sessions. Adult education programs are also available including the Cheekwood Gardening School.

20. Experience the ultimate celebration of country music

Mark your calendars for the annual CMA Fest, four days and four nights of non-stop music held each June. It’s a total music take-over covering more than two miles with seven day stages and two nighttime stages as well as activities and events all along Broadway. Organized and hosted by the Country Music Association, tens of thousands of people typically throng to the festival.

Planning Tip: If you’re serious about going, buy your tickets and book your hotel rooms early. The countdown for next year’s fest begins as soon as the current one ends.

21. Celebrate a third-generation whiskey history

A road trip, historic marker, and two ancient bottles of Nelson’s Green Brier Tennessee Whiskey connected Andy and Charlies Nelson back three generations to their grandfather, a master distiller.

Using a century-old recipe, the brothers founded Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, winning awards and honoring their heritage. Now the distillery, located in Marathon Village, a happening neighborhood that’s a five-minute drive from downtown Nashville, is a place to take tours and sample the wares. That includes Louisa’s Liqueur, a Coffee Caramel Pecan drink, named after the woman who ran the original Nelson’s from 1899 to 1909.

The menu at the distillery’s restaurant is a creative combination of Southern comfort foods, historic foodways, and local produce and products—fried green tomatoes, schnitzel, house-made bratwurst, and German chocolate cake. Book ahead for weekend tours, as they sell out quickly.

Local Tip: It’s only about a minute away so be sure to check out the calendar of events at the Marathon Music Works.

22. Discover 12South, Nashville’s coolest neighborhood

This half-mile stretch of 12 South Avenue known as 12South is packed with stylish boutiques, restaurants, and businesses including a couple owned by celebrities. See what’s in stock at White’s Mercantile. Founded in 2013 by singer-songwriter Holly Williams to save a vintage gas station and reimagine the old general store concept, there are now five locations selling food, apparel, and home décor.

Check out Reese Witherspoon’s curated selection of women’s fashions, books and gifts at Draper James. Stock up on local and regional products at Made in TN.

Amble down to the Frothy Monkey for a Golden Monkey Latte (espresso with steamed milk, honey, cinnamon, and their house turmeric blend) and the Vanilla-Cinnamon French Toast. At Five Daughters Bakery, order hand-crafted 100-layer doughnuts. A cross between a croissant and doughnut, they can take up to three days to make and come in such flavors as Chocolate Sea Salt and Maple Glaze.

23. Take the Honkey Tonk Highway

Immerse yourself in live music on the Honky Tonk Highway, a stretch of honky tonks on Lower Broadway where, from 10 am to 3 am, music fills the streets – and it’s free! You’ll discover legendary country music venues, including Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Ernest Tubb Midnite Jamboree at the Texas Troubadour Center on Saturday nights and Miss Zeke’s Juke Joint at Papa Turney’s BBQ. Robert’s Western World is known for its live country music and The Recession Special, a fried bologna sandwich served with a Moon Pie and cold PBR.

Planning Tip: Just like it’s free to walk the Honky Tonk Highway, you don’t have to spend a fortune or even a buck in Nashville to have fun. Check out these Music City destinations.

24. Follow Your Favorite Musicians at the Music City Walk of Fame Park

Located on Nashville’s Music Mile, between 4th and 5th Avenues, the Music City Walk of Fame Park on Nashville’s Music Mile honors musicians and others in the industry who have had an impact on the music world.

25. Cross one of the world’s longest pedestrian bridges

Take in incredible views of the river and downtown skyline by walking the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge, which is closed to car traffic. The historic bridge built from 1907–09 connects downtown Nashville to East Nashville.

Planning Tip: Though the walk is free, there are shops and restaurants on either end so bring your wallet with you.

Sustainable getaways aim to minimize harm to the environment and support local communities. While there is no such thing as carbon-zero or fully sustainable travel, there are ways to be more mindful about energy consumption and patronizing local businesses. Sustainable travel means making choices that respect local communities and cultures and contribute, rather than extract from them.

With this ethos at heart, here are 12 destinations worldwide that showcase the best of sustainable travel.

1. Costa Rica, Central America

Costa Rica is famous for its eco-resorts, and few are lower-impact than Rancho Margot. This lush, off-grid retreat is the perfect base for exploring the hiking trails, hot springs and scenic lake of Parque Nacional Volcán Arenal. It also serves as a sustainable learning center. Guests can tour its self-sufficient practices, join a week-long program or volunteer for wildlife and nature initiatives. 

2. Norway, Europe

Norway’s Fjord region is a model of sustainable tourism. The country, and this region in particular, are focused on green initiatives that are open to travelers. Travelers can explore the fjords aboard eco-friendly Havila Kystruten ships. These ships run on hybrid energy to cut carbon emissions and glide quietly through UNESCO-listed waters like Geirangerfjord.

Visit Svart in Meløy, close to the Arctic Circle, which is slated to be the world’s first energy-positive hotel when it opens. It is entirely off-grid, using solar panels and innovative energy-saving measures to generate 160% of its energy needs over 50 years. See the Svartisen glacier and northern lights while supporting the highest standards of sustainability.

Visitors can walk on beautiful trails, kayak on calm waters or stay in eco-certified hotels that show Norway’s commitment to nature. This makes Norway a must-see place for eco-conscious adventurers who want to connect with nature in a meaningful way.

3. New Zealand, South Pacific

On New Zealand’s South Island, Kaikoura is a hub for sustainable whale-watching tours. Whale Watch Kaikoura is a Maori-owned business that helps the Ngai Tahu community by providing jobs and preserving culture. Tour guides teach visitors about Ngai Tahu’s connection to the ocean by sharing Māori stories and explaining conservation efforts. Tours run year-round and offer the chance to see majestic whales, including sperm, humpback, blue and orca, depending on the season. Operators ensure boats keep a respectful distance from the animals to minimize disruption. Kaikoura is about a two-hour trip by local bus along State Hwy 1, between Picton and Christchurch.

4. Bolivia, South America

Hidden deep in the Bolivian Amazon, Chalalán Ecolodge is surrounded by one of the most biodiverse regions in the world. Home to 11% of all plant and animal species, the Quechua-Tacano Indigenous community runs this eco-friendly retreat. The money they make from it goes toward funding health and education projects in the area. Explore 14 amazing nature trails, spot wildlife or unwind in hammocks overlooking the jungle. Located 30km (19 miles) west of Rurrenabaque in Madidi National Park, it’s one of the highlights of Bolivia. For the best experience, plan your trip during the dry season, from May to October – read more about the best time to visit Bolivia.

5. Romania, Europe

Home to Europe’s largest population of brown bears, Romania is the perfect place to visit if you want to support their conservation. Libearty Bear Sanctuary in Transylvania is a safe home for over 100 rescued bears who enjoy a better life after years of cruel captivity. Visitors can explore the 69-hectare (170-acre) oak forest with a guide and learn about the bears’ rehabilitation. Responsible Travel also lets you work with the sanctuary’s conservation efforts in a seven-day volunteer program.

6. Bhutan, South Asia

Bhutan is a Himalayan kingdom known for its focus on Gross National Happiness. While some independent travel is allowed in the country, we recommend that you book a tour, even though it’s no longer required by the government. These tours often include visits to historic temples and hikes through yak meadows in the high Himalayas. 

Connect more deeply with local culture by enlisting an operator that can arrange a homestay experience – such as the Bhutan Homestay program, through which income generated by tourism helps to offset the losses to crops and livestock caused by park wildlife.

7. Namibia, Africa

Visitors to northeastern Namibia’s Tsumkwe Country Lodge can experience life alongside the San people, the original inhabitants of southern Africa. San have lived in the Kalahari Desert for over 40,000 years, and their survival skills offer valuable lessons for modern travelers. A visit here is more than just an activity – it’s an unforgettable journey to learn from the San people’s wisdom and deep connection to nature. Activities might include tasting the “fruits” of the desert, such as berries and tubers, or observing a skillful antelope hunt. Book your visit with the lodge or plan a longer trip through a responsible operator like Expert Africa, which works with the community to create meaningful travel itineraries.

8. Portugal, Europe

Portugal’s Azores are a paradise for sustainable travel. A guided eco-tour is one of the greenest ways to explore the islands. In the Azores, visitors can hike the volcanic landscapes of São Miguel, Terceira, and Pico. Each has a unique ecosystem and commitment to sustainability.

On the mainland, visit the Parque Nacional da Peneda-Gerês in northern Portugal. Sustainable tourism there helps protect the park’s rich biodiversity, making it one of the country’s most pristine natural areas. You can enjoy hiking through the park’s scenic trails, spot wildlife and stay at eco-lodges that support the local community.

9. Tasmania, Australia

Northeastern Tasmania’s Bay of Fires is a must-see with its fire-colored, lichen-tinged granite headlands, white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. The Wukalina Walk now lets a Palawa guide narrate 10,000 years of Aboriginal history and culture in the region.

This exciting experience represents the first time the Palawa people have had the chance to tell their story on their own land. This three-day, four-night trip includes visits to the Larapuna (Bay of Fires) and Wukalina (Mt William) areas. The 34km (21-mile) walk showcases the stunning, rugged beauty of the coast. It includes two nights in comfy domed huts and one in the keeper’s cottage at Eddystone Point Lighthouse.

10. Kenya, Africa

Ol Pejeta Conservancy is East Africa’s largest black rhino sanctuary. It runs from Mt Kenya to the Great Rift Valley and is a great example of community-led conservation. Visitors can camp within the conservancy, making it one of the region’s best budget-friendly safari options. Every visit visit supports Ol Pejeta’s conservation work.

Activities include classic game drives and eco-friendly experiences, like walking and horseback safaris. While exploring, search for the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and Cape buffalo. Also, learn about the conservancy’s work to protect wildlife and habitats.

11. Fiji, South Pacific

Fiji’s vibrant coral reefs are among its greatest treasures, and you can play a hands-on role in protecting them through coral planting. Also known as coral aquaculture, this sustainable activity grows young corals in a protected nursery. Then, they’re replanted onto natural or artificial reefs. A growing number of resorts across Fiji offer guests the chance to participate in this rewarding experience.

The resorts leading these efforts include Castaway Island Fiji, Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort on Vanua Levu (Fiji’s second-largest island), and Makaira Resort on Taveuni. Coral planting supports the reefs’ health and allows visitors to connect with Fiji’s unique marine ecosystem in a meaningful way.

12. USA, North America

Imagine falling asleep to the sound of wolf calls and waking up with bears as your neighbors. This can be your reality when you volunteer at one of the USA’s stunning national parks. Volunteering opportunities vary from park to park, including guiding tours and assisting with scientific research. Volunteers usually commit to at least 32 hours per stint and some opportunities are compensated. 

For more ideas, check out these tips for sustainable travel.