Category Adventure Travel

With its sparkling crystal waters, impressive mountains and affordability for all types of travelers, Albania is taking its place as a true jewel of the Balkans. If you arrive with an open mind and a rough plan, you’ll encounter a rich culture like no other in Europe.

Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are making a return visit, you’ll want to consider our roundup of the Albania’s most intriguing places.

1. Theth

Best for hiking and adventure lovers

A small village nestled in the Albanian Alps, Theth might just be the most peaceful place to visit in Albania. If you’re looking for superior hiking and dramatic landscapes to enjoy, don’t miss it.

Once you get to Theth, two hikes are essential. The first leads to the Blue Eye, through a forest, over rivers and finally to a vibrant blue natural spring. This hike is easy to moderate, and very doable for less-experienced hikers.

The second is one of Albania’s most popular – and most beautiful: the Theth-to Valbona-hike. This trail starts from the top of Theth village, near Guest House Gjelaj, and leads through the mountains to breathtaking views at the top. It’s not for the faint-hearted, as it will take roughly 6 to 8 hours to complete – but the effort will be well worth it.

Planning tip: Make sure you bring cash with you, as ATMs are few and far between, and cards are barely accepted.

2. Saranda

Best for summer fun

Saranda is the southern gateway to the Albanian Riviera and one of its best cities to visit, not least because it’s close to one of the region’s best beaches, Ksamil. Book a hotel in Saranda, where you’ll be close to some of the best restaurants and nightlife in the country. Then explore the nearby beaches by day.

One of the best things to do from Saranda is to hop on one of the day trip boat tours that leave from the boulevard and go to the beaches of Kakomë and Krorëz. Tickets start at €30.

Planning tip: The best time to visit Saranda is in May, June or September when the crowds are not crazy but the beach bars and restaurants are open. As this is a summer destination, most businesses close during the offseason.

3. Korça

Best for historical appeal 

When you visit Korça in Central Albania, make sure to stroll through the Pazari i Vjetër, the city’s old bazaar. Cobblestone streets and Ottoman-style architecture testify to the site’s history, which stretches back to the 13th century.

When you visit this area, be sure to visit one of the many coffee houses in the Old Bazaar. Try the popular, traditional alcoholic drink called raki, made from distilled grapes. You might even catch someone chasing a glass of raki with their morning espresso.

4. Gjirokastra

Best for Albanian traditions

Known as the City of Stone, UNESCO-listed Gjirokastra in the south of Albania offers a glimpse of a pre-modern past. (It’s also the birthplace former Communist dictator Enver Hoxha.) After you’ve wandered through the town’s bazaar and taken in its impressive castle, be sure to take a wander around Zekate House. Built between 1811 and 1812, this traditional family home beautiful brings to life Albanian domestic traditions. When you visit, one of the family members will show you around and explain the different rooms and their purposes. 

If you love wine as much as you do hearty food, then you need to take a trip to Te Fuçitë (The Barrels), a family restaurant and winery. Here, you’ll sample the reds and whites alongside platters of local delicacies – and views of the vineyards and surrounding mountains.

Planning tip: Try the dish called pasha qofte, essentially a cream soup made from milk with small meatballs. It’s a delicious dish you’ll find only in Gjirokastër.

5. Dhërmi

Best for beaches

If you’re craving less culture and more lying about, getting a suntan and enjoying a dip in the sea, then you need to visit Dhërmi. One of the pearls of the Albanian Riviera, the town has idyllic beaches, trendy beach bars and views that might make you never want to leave.

Dhërmi also hosts several summer music festivals, including the Kala Festival and ION Festival, making it a hot spot for younger generations looking for different summer vibes on the Mediterranean. Try Restaurant Luciano for delicious food overlooking the water, or head to Alevra restaurant and beach bar to try super-fresh seafood with a twist.

Planning tip: Make sure you book well in advance if you’re visiting in July and August, as hotels can be booked out during the festivals mentioned above.

6. Shkodra

Best for exploring by bike

The city of Shkodra is a unlike any other in Albania. When you arrive, you’ll notice most of the population peddling around the city by bike – and you should join them by renting a cycle for the day. Start by pedaling down to Liqeni i Shkodrës to enjoy the beautiful lake views.

While you’re in the area, make sure you visit Rozafa Castle and ask one of the guides about the legend of Rozafa, a local woman reputed to have sacrificed herself during its construction. When you reach the top, you can take in a magnificent 360-degree view.

Planning tip: If you plan to tackle the Theth-to-Valbona hike and don’t fancy taking your luggage with you, ask about leaving your bags at your accommodation in Shkodra. It’s easy to get from the city onward to the mountain villages.

7. Lin

Best for a peaceful village vibe

Positioned on Lake Ohrid, Lin is a quiet village where fishing is a primary activity, and life is otherwise slow and blissfully tranquil. At a hilltop archaeological site, you’ll find the well-preserved mosaics of a Paleo-Christian church built in the 6th century. If you visit in the summertime, the mosaics will be uncovered, and there should be a guide who can tell you all about their history. From this vantage point, you can also admire the village from above – and even look over to North Macedonia in the distance.

8. Përmet

Best for white-water rafting and mountain biking

On a bend in the fast-flowing, turquoise Vjosa River – about 32km (20 miles) from Greece, from where the river springs – the town Përmet is a hub for adventure. From here, you can organize activities from white-water rafting to camping, hiking and mountain-bike riding in this mountainous region. Once an Ottoman-era commercial center, Përmet is today the center of one of Albania’s greenest and most pristine regions. Indeed, the Vjosa was recently designated as a wild river national park, Europe’s first.

Detour: A 29km (18-mile) taxi or bus ride away, the Bënjë Thermal Baths lie next to an Ottoman-era bridge on the Lengarica River (a tributary of the Vjosa). In summer, you can pick up supplies from small vendors here; in the offseason, bring your own food and drinks.

9. Porto Palermo

Best for a crowd-free Riviera experience

The triangle-shaped castle is a great reason to stop at Porto Palermo, as are the beautiful, unspoiled and peaceful beaches you’ll find here. Filled with history and spectacular swimming bays, this under-visited Riviera town is an excellent place for camping. You can also rent a kayak and paddle along the beaches and quiet bays. As you kayak, you’ll see the old military submarine bunker situated on the hill not far from the main beaches.

With its impressive terrain of imperious mountains, volcano-ravaged landscapes and sumptuous rainforest, Washington state is understandably renowned amongst keen hikers.

It is home to the northern terminus of the Pacific Crest Trail (part of the “Triple Crown” of US hiking), the headquarters of the American Alpine Institute and three pioneering national parks: iconic Mt Rainier, the primeval Olympic peninsula and the lonesome mini-Alaska of the North Cascades.

When you’re done pacing the state’s saw-toothed mountains and rain-soaked forests, you can stroll the less threatening fields and hedgerows of the bucolic San Juan Islands, or warm down on the pleasantly paved (and accessible) Burke-Gilman trail in urban Seattle. These are the best hikes in Washington state.

1. The Wonderland Trail is a challenging multi-day hike

93-mile loop, 10–12 days, hard

Backcountry endurance athletes will love the Wonderland Trail, Mt Rainier’s classic long-distance hike, a 93-mile pilgrimage that completely circumnavigates the mountain and logs a cumulative elevation gain of 21400ft. Conceived in 1915, the trail is well-marked and completed by between 200 and 250 hikers a year. Incorporating multiple ecosystems into its course, it reveals captivating vistas of Rainier and its 25 glaciers from every angle.

Longmire near Mt Rainier National Park’s Nisqually entrance is the most popular starting point for the multi-day extravaganza. Most hikers tackle the route in a clockwise direction in July or August after the snow has melted and the mountain’s famous wildflowers are in bloom. There are 18 backcountry campsites en route. Don’t worry if you’re new to backcountry camping and don’t know where to start. Our handy guide will ensure you have the time of your life.

2. The Enchanted Valley Trail is the best hike for wildlife-spotting

27 miles round-trip, 2 days, easy

Billed as one of the easiest and downright charming ways to delve into the roadless interior of Olympic National Park, this gentle, easy-to-follow trail stretches for 13.5 miles from the Graves Creek trailhead to a large riverside meadow, the site of a handsomely mildewed wooden cabin dating from the 1930s. Much of the early miles are through a wooded valley studded with a magnificent old-growth forest and bisected by the gurgling Quinault River.

After passing the O’Neil Creek campsite, the trees slowly thin out to reveal sheer cliff faces and peaks rising 2000ft from the valley floor. During the spring snowmelt, the precipice is drizzled by innumerable waterfalls (locals claim there are 10,000!), while the valley is decorated with a rich rainbow of wildflowers. You can camp by the enchanting but closed-to-public cabin before hiking back the way you came. Berry-seeking bears, shy deer and herds of elk are common in these parts.

3. Ozette Triangle Trail is the best beach hike

9.2-mile loop, 5 hours, moderate

The northern half of Washington is characterized by its wild, storm-lashed beaches, many of them protected within Olympic National Park. For a taste of this remote, elemental coast, come to Lake Ozette, 31 miles southwest of the town of Clallam Bay. It’s the location of a 2000-year-old Ozette-Makah village uncovered during a Pacific storm in 1970 (most of the archaeological site was backfilled in the 1980s).

From the lake, you can follow the 3.3-mile Cape Alava Trail to the westernmost point of land in the Lower 48. The trail, much of it across a raised boardwalk, delivers you to a rocky weather-beaten beach speckled with islets and sea stacks. Turn south here and – tide permitting – traverse the beach for 3 miles. Rocks, sand and fallen trees make it tough going (check tide charts in advance) but, halfway along, you’ll stumble upon the Wedding Rocks, the most significant group of petroglyphs on the Olympic Peninsula.

Loop back to the Lake Ozette trailhead by following the well-marked Sand Point Trail that plunges inland from the beach, completing an almost perfect triangle.

4. Cascade Pass to Stehekin Valley is a hike to an off-the-grid village

23 miles point-to-point, 2 days, hard

Bereft of road connections to the outside world, the remote Cascadian village of Stehekin is reachable only by boat or seaplane – unless you’re up for a bold backcountry adventure on foot. Three main trails head south off Hwy 20 to converge on the isolated community. The quickest and most spectacular is the 23-mile hike over Cascade Pass (reached via a steep 3.7-mile climb from the Cascade River Rd) that follows the route of a former Native American trading path switching back to the 5392ft subalpine saddle. The area is the current focus of a national park revegetation effort.

After ascending to the pass, the path continues down the other side into the Stehekin River Valley, where it joins briefly with the Pacific Crest Trail before descending to High Bridge. From here, you can catch a four-times-daily (in the summer and fall season) shuttle bus for the last 11 miles into Stehekin. Numerous backcountry campsites are available en route.

5. Desolation Trail is a great route for literary enthusiasts

7.9 miles round-trip, 7 hours, hard

Loaded with historical and literary significance, the Desolation Trail up to Desolation Peak (6102ft) in the North Cascades takes you to a historic fire lookout, built in 1933, the one-time refuge of American Beat writer Jack Kerouac. He worked as a watchman at this remote spot during the summer of 1956. The shortest ascent to the lookout from Ross Lake follows a steep, strenuous trail that gains 4475ft in less than 4 miles. The reward is stunning vistas of the twin peaks of Hozameen and, perhaps, echoes of the literary inspiration that prompted Kerouac to write Desolation Angels and The Dharma Bums.

To complete the hike in a day, you’ll need to catch a water taxi from Ross Lake to a trailhead on the lake’s upper eastern shore. Alternatively, the peak can be hiked via a longer 43-mile round-trip route starting from a trailhead at milepost 138 on Hwy 20.

6. Chain Lakes Loop has the best mountain views

7.1-mile loop, 4 hours, moderate

If you’ve grown tired of climbing through thick forests to peek-a-boo viewpoints, this hike will save you some grunt work. Set in a high alpine nirvana amid the lake-scattered bowls and slopes of Mt Baker and Mt Shuksan, the Chain Lakes Loop starts at Artist Point (5100ft) at the end of Mt Baker Hwy, enabling you to get above the treeline by car. It’s important to check the weather before you set off – snow can keep the road closed until early July.

The hike itself follows a moderate, well-trafficked route that’s spectacular from start to finish. From the parking lot, it traverses the lava walls of Table Mountain before dropping down to pass a half-dozen icy lakes surrounded by huckleberry meadows. Iceberg, Hayes and Bagley Lakes all unveil their glassy beauty. In the background, you’re treated to intermittent snapshots of Mt Shuksan (9131ft), the peak that launched a thousand calendar spreads, and Mt Baker (10,781ft), northwestern Washington’s omnipresent sentinel and one of the snowiest places on earth.

After passing the Heather Meadows Visitor Center, take the Wild Goose Trail back to Artist Point.

7. Dog Mountain Trail is the best hike for wildflowers

7.2 miles round-trip, 5 hours, hard

The toast of all Columbia Gorge hikes is a steep 3.8-mile climb up Dog Mountain, the best place in southern Washington for late-spring wildflowers. The uphill trek is unrelenting, but it ends in open fields full of balsamroot, paintbrush, lupine and more, framed by sweeping views over the mighty Columbia River, as wide as a lake at this point in its course. Oregon occupies the opposite bank and various Cascade volcanoes flash their brilliance in the distance.

The hike operates a permit system in the spring months to minimize crowds – book online in advance.

8. Bluff Trail is a good hike to do as a family

5.6-mile loop, 2 hours, easy

If your knees aren’t up to mountain scrambles or bushwhacking through Washington’s backcountry, try this bucolic stroll through a National Historical Reserve that embodies Washington state’s best parks, where the elevation change is minimal and the wildest animal you’re likely to see is a startled rabbit. Welcome to Ebey’s Landing, a 17,000-acre patchwork of working farms, historic blockhouses and coastal bluffs spread across two state parks on the western shores of Whidbey Island, 30 miles north of Seattle.

The reserve’s best walk, the Bluff Trail, departs from the Sunnyside Cemetery just outside the historic town of Coupeville near the island’s narrowest point. The white hump of Mt Baker dominates the eastern horizon, and the peaks of the Olympics march away to the west as you head through wheat fields to a coastal bluff where the trail loops past wind-contorted trees and flower-covered slopes. Zigzagging down to a beach backed by a lagoon, the path doubles back on a parallel route to the start. Interpretive boards, wildfowl and marine ecosystems provide distractions en route.

9. Ape Cave is a great subterranean hike

3 miles round-trip, 2 hours, moderate

Tucked away in the forest on the southern side of Mt St Helens, Ape Cave is a 2-mile-long lava tube – the longest in the western hemisphere – formed around 2000 years ago in one of the volcano’s earlier eruptions.

It allows you to take an unguided cave walk up to 1.5 miles long (although there’s a shorter 0.8-mile option) and digest a bit of the area’s volcanic history as you go. Interpretive boards explain the basic geology, and forest rangers lead guided walks in summer. Bring good footwear, several torches/flashlights and a jacket (it gets cold even in summer).

Stairs aid entry to the cave but, once inside, passages are narrow and several lava falls must be climbed over, including one that’s 8ft tall. From the upper entrance, a forest path meanders 1.5 miles back to the parking area. 

Planning tip: A permit system has been introduced to enter the cave, so book online before your visit.

10. Skyline Trail is the best route for glacier viewing

6.2-mile loop, 3.5 hours, moderate

Starting behind the historic Paradise Inn perched at 5400ft on the southern slopes of Mt Rainier, this gorgeous loop climbs approximately 1900ft, taking in the lofty lookout of Panorama Point, which provides some of the best views of Mt Rainier (in close-up), as well as the more distant Tatoosh Range.

Best done clockwise, the circuit incorporates glacier views, above-the-treeline paths patrolled by whistling marmots and expansive flower meadows replete with lupine, paintbrush, asters and bistort. Due to its famed beauty, the trail is well-signposted and trafficked. There are a couple of opportunities to cut corners and make the loop shorter.

Planning tip: Late July and early August are peak wildflower season and the best (but busiest) time to visit. Pick up a trail map at the Henry M Jackson Visitor Center next to Paradise Inn. 

11. Heliotrope Ridge Trail is a top choice for glacier enthusiasts

5.5 miles roundtrip, 4 hours, moderate

Located on Mt Baker, Heliotrope Ridge Trail begins off Forest Road 39, where the dense forests quickly give way to expansive views of the surrounding peaks. Within 1 mile of a gentle ascent, you’ll cross the first of several small streams cascading down from nearby peaks and soon meander through wildflower-filled meadows, especially from late July to early August when the flowers are at their peak. 

The moderate elevation gets more noticeable around the 2-mile mark, as you approach the treeline. The gain leads you gradually up to the edge of the Coleman Glacier, with blue ice caves offering a striking contrast to the surrounding landscape – you may even spot adventurous ice climbers making their way up the face.

12. Snow Lake Trail showcases the beauty of Alpine Lakes Wilderness

7.2 miles roundtrip, 3.5 hours, moderate

Within the Alpine Lakes Wilderness, Snow Lake Trail is a rewarding hike that provides picturesque lake views. The trail begins at the Alpental parking area near Snoqualmie Pass, immediately diving into a forested path lined with towering evergreens and dense undergrowth. The trail descends toward the lake and levels out around the 3-mile mark. 

The lake is an ideal spot for a lunch break or a snack, and in the late summer months, you may even spot wild blueberries along the trail for delicious foraging. If you have the energy, continue past Snow Lake to Gem Lake, just over a mile walk, for a quieter spot.

13. Ptarmigan Traverse is Washington’s toughest hike

35 miles point-to-point, 5–7 days, extremely hard

If you’re a serious hiker with days to commit, the Ptarmigan Traverse is a legendary route winding through the Washington Cascades with some of the state’s most difficult and remote alpine terrain. This epic 35-mile trek, often described as Washington’s most grueling hike, requires a high level of mountaineering skill, route-finding expertise and experience with glacier travel.

The journey begins near Cascade Pass in North Cascades National Park and covers dramatic landscapes marked by towering peaks, steep inclines and expansive glaciers. The first major ascent takes you over Cache Col Pass, then traverses multiple glaciers, including the Dana, Middle Cascade and LeConte.

One of the most stunning sections is White Rock Lakes, where clear blue lakes reflect the jagged peaks that tower overhead, offering a backdrop for those able to reach this remote spot. The final portion of the traverse brings hikers over Spire Col and Dome Peak, two of the highest and most challenging points on the route.

14. Aasgard Pass is Washington’s toughest one-day hike

12 miles roundtrip, 8–12 hours, extremely hard

If you want to tackle a tough hike but only have a day to commit, the Aasgard Pass in the Enchantments Core Zone is hailed as Washington’s most difficult one-day hike, testing even the most experienced hikers. Starting at the Stuart Lake Trailhead near Leavenworth, this hike offers stunning rewards but demands intense effort.

The initial portion leads through lush, forested trails, climbing steadily until reaching Colchuck Lake at around 4 miles. From there, you’ll confront Aasgard Pass head-on. This brutally steep ascent climbs 2000ft in less than a mile. Snow patches here can linger well into summer, adding to the difficulty and unpredictability. But when you reach the top, you are rewarded with an entry into the Enchantments Basin, filled with sapphire-blue lakes, wildflower-dotted meadows and the occasional mountain goat roaming freely among the granite.

15. Rattlesnake Ledge is the best hike for beginners

4 miles roundtrip, 2 hours, easy

Still, Washington offers a number of trails that introduce newcomers to hiking in the state. One of the top trails for beginners is Rattlesnake Ledge, located in Rattlesnake Mountain Scenic Area near North Bend. The trailhead starts at Rattlesnake Lake and begins with a gentle incline, winding through a dense, shaded forest of towering cedars and firs. 

The well-marked trail continues to climb gradually, providing several spots to stop and rest along the way. At around 1.5 miles in, the trail steepens slightly but remains easily navigable, with switchbacks helping to ease the climb. The path is wide, well-trodden and lined with ferns and moss until you reach Rattlesnake Ledge’s rocky outcrop. From here, enjoy the sweeping views before retracing your steps back.

16. Hurricane Hill Trail is the best hike in Olympic National Park

3.2 miles roundtrip, 1.5–2 hours, easy to moderate

For the best hiking in Olympic National Park, Hurricane Hill Trail is one of the state’s most-visited trails. Starting near the temporary Hurricane Ridge Visitor Center (the permanent building burned down in 2023), this hike takes you along a paved path that gently climbs through alpine meadows filled with wildflowers during the summer months. 

The hike begins with a moderate ascent, but the well-maintained trail and gradual incline make it manageable even for beginners. After 1 mile, you’ll reach a ridge with views of the Olympic Mountains – on a clear day, you can even see as far as Vancouver Island.

Keep planning your trip to Washington state

Everything you need to know before visiting Washington state
12 of the best things to do in Washington state
Getting around Washington state

There is a lot of snow in the world. True powder hounds may say that it’s not nearly enough, but trust me, it’s a big world with so many amazing places to ski (and board, of course). And some of those spots are a side slip away from the big, famous names. Hit a godly ski area in Greece, or head to Chile where the food is as big of a draw as the powder ⁠— magical slopes await all around the world.  

So pack your bags and wax your planks – you might be about to discover your new favorite riding destination. 

1. Portillo, Chile

Best for a southern snow fix 

This South American superstar in Chile is nothing short of epic, like an all-inclusive cruise ship marooned on a mountain. This big, yellow hotel with a slope-side pool offers four meals a day (including high tea and top-quality South American steaks), and reliable snow. Numbers are capped at only 450 beds, creating such an exclusive club feel that you’ll be saying “hola” to everyone by week’s end.

A week here involves plenty of late morning starts, long lunches at Tio Bobs, early hot-tub sessions, a siesta, dinners that start at 9pm and memories of mingling with like-minded skiers, Pisco Sour in hand. And naturally, there are epic slopes where you can hit the powder without the crowds or lift lines. 

Best alternative for a southern snow fix: New Zealand’s Treble Cone offers surreal views of Lake Wanaka and snowy Southern Alps peaks. 

2. Nozawa Onsen, Japan

Best for local culture 

There you are, surrounded by wooden ryokan, ski pants rolled up with post-riding feet soaking in a roadside foot onsen, a vending-machine coffee in hand after riding Siberian-grade powder that makes Utah’s cold smoke goods look like lard. Welcome to Japan! 

A ski trip to the Land of the Rising Sun (or, for skiers, the land of Japowder, with 12m/39ft of annual snowfall) is the ultimate cultural immersion served on a side of snow. In particular, the ancient feudal farming town of Nozawa Onsen will charm the pants off you ⁠— quite literally. You’ll come for the riding but before you know it you’ll be stripping down with strangers in a steamy room like an onsen-loving local. 

Best alternative for local culture: Poiana Brasov, located deep in the Carpathian Mountains in Transylvania, Romania, boasts Bran Castle and medieval Brasov nearby, plus ski rentals are the price of a coffee in Zermatt.

3. Big White, Canada

Best for ski-in ski-out 

Big White’s tagline should be “no schlep.” Ski-in ski-out accommodation, the kind where you can reach through the kitchen window and grab a snack mid-run, is the holy grail of skiing. This family-friendly resort in Canada’s British Columbia is entirely ski-in ski-out ⁠— even the main road is listed as a piste.

The absence of car parking and lack of stairs, where kids could face-plant as they carry their big skis, aren’t the only reasons to love Big White. Its 7.5m (24ft) of powder is enough to bury a house, it has the biggest night-skiing area in Western Canada (38 acres/15ha), the country’s second-largest lifting system and “snow ghosts” – frozen trees like stalagmites – haunting the upper slopes for an “only-in-BW” experience. 

Best alternative for ski-in ski-out: Fire up the fondue, France’s Les Arcs 1950 is the most charming (and newest) of the five Les Arcs villages, entirely ski-in ski-out with fairy lights strung between traditionally built wooden houses and 425km (265 miles) of slopes to explore. 

4. Engelberg, Switzerland

Best off-piste skiing 

Engelberg may not have the name recognition of Chamonix, but this is to Europe for off-piste skiing what California’s Mammoth Mountain or Switzerland’s LAAX are to freestyle. Up until a few years ago Engelberg in Switzerland’s central Uri Alps had been a well-kept secret. However, the recent influx of Instagramming pro skiers and ski films featuring its mountains have seen Engelberg rise in popularity and gain a cult-like status.

To find the best lines from the 3292m (10,800ft) Titlis (reached by a revolving cable car the Titlis Rotair) check in with the freeski crew at the Ski Lodge Engelberg. The Lodge alone is almost reason to come here. The stuff of après legends, it’s overflowing with life-loving Swiss-based Swedes who ski hard and party even harder. 

Best alternative for off-piste skiing: If Wyoming’s Jackson Hole is good enough for mountaineering legend Jimmy Chin to call home, it’s challenging enough for us mere mortals. You’ll need nerves of steel to attempt areas like Fat Bastard.

5. Austria

Best for après-ski

You might return from an Austrian ski holiday in desperate need of a holiday. Austria is bulging with world-class ski areas like an overflowing Santa stocking, with cute-as-a-button villages, glaciers galore, pistes for every standard and ski days fueled in part by Leberknödel (ground liver dumplings). The raucous après culture isn’t limited to certain niches of Austria. Everywhere in the country reverberates to the clang of ski boots on cobblestones crossing villages at 8pm.

In Saalbach, one of the partying capitals of the Alps, you’ll find the steeps are as hard as the shots. In St Anton (nicknamed “St Man-ton” due to the prevalence of men on group ski trips) the high-octane Las Vegas of the Arlberg siblings (including St Christoph, Stuben, Lech and Zürs), legendary tales have been born at the MooserWirt. Ishgl is the OG party stronghold.

Best alternative for après-ski: The live acts at La Folie Douce in France’s Val d’Isere never disappoint. 

6. Alta Badia, Italy

Best for food

Ski areas are famed for US$10 soggy, cold fries. Enter stage left – Italy, where incredible slopes, scenery and gastronomy overlap in a Venn diagram of what a perfect ski area looks like. Especially Alta Badia, with the most on-mountain restaurants in the Alps (45 at last count) in cozy refuges. And because skiing and eating here costs less than elsewhere in Europe, you can try everything with change to spare. 

Deep in Italy’s Dolomites, pause for a hearty dish of Tyrolean Schlutzkrapfen. Your heart will race from heady aromas swirling from the doorway, or maybe the altitude. Either way, you won’t be able to click your skis off fast enough. Luckily, when you’ve finally had your fill, you’ll be able to hit some incredible slopes as well. 

Best alternative for food: The bright lights of Japan’s Niseko offers a food fiesta whether Asian or international cuisine is your yen.

7. Parnassous, Greece

Best under-the-radar spot 

As if the islands, historic cities and lip-licking cuisine aren’t enough for Greece, it’s also home to some worthy ski areas. Eighty percent of Greece is mountainous and if planning for a trip packed with more high points than Zeus’s quiver of thunderbolts, say yassou to Parnassous.

This is the country’s biggest ski resort and the most popular. It’s only three hours from Athens, but avoid weekends when lift lines can be long. Following a multistage overhaul, since 2014 the resort has two connected areas with 21 ski runs. The best thing about skiing in Greece, though, is the Greeks, specifically their philotimo to foreigners – hospitality given with generosity and kindness. 

Best alternative under-the-radar spot: I have no idea why Big Sky Montana near Yellowstone Park, as the third-largest in North America, ever gets overlooked, but it does. With the resort transforming and the ambitious Big Sky 2025 10-year project nearing completion, run don’t walk to the ski industry’s Next Big (Sky) Thing.

8. Aspen, USA

The complete package 

The unbeatable combination of four individual mountains, MoMA-level art exhibitions at the Aspen Art Museum, chic shopping and cosmopolitan eateries mean you need a reason not to visit Aspen Snowmass in Colorado. 

Some ski areas have epic mountains, but charmless purpose-built towns. Others have dynamic towns, but “meh” slopes. Aspen makes a clean sweep with the rare combination of a historic Victorian mining town plus endless skiing on the downtown glamazon Aspen Mountain, local favorite Aspen Highlands, beginner skier and X Games home Buttermilk plus behemoth Snowmass. 

Don’t be deterred by the glitz and glamour reputation, peek below to discover a tribe of forward-thinking snow-lovers who emphasize community and inclusivity. I came here 25 years ago for the snow and was hooked by its soul.

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by Sedona’s staggering scenery and unique vibe.

Best known for its stunning red rock formations and energy vortexes, Sedona’s reputation as a hotspot for wellness is rightfully earned. Every rambling trail of the geological wonderland seems to have a backstory that deepens every experience. It’s a place that strikes a bold balance: a haven for visitors seeking spiritual enlightenment, or those wanting adrenaline-spiking adventure among the ancient red rocks and swaths of pine forest.

The Arizona city’s location in the high desert adds to its distinctive – and authentic – allure and cool convergences lie everywhere. Locally produced wines pair well with desert cuisine. Pine forests flank red rocks. And Buddhist shrines and natural-vortex sites crackle with good vibrations.

From among such exciting options, here are 17 experiences not to miss in Sedona.

1. Visit a Buddhist shrine and peace park

Sedona’s natural sacred sites have long been lured by those seeking spiritual enlightenment. The area’s history originates with Indigenous people, who consider this land a holy place intended for healing and transformation. Yet it might seem surprising to find a pair of Buddhist stupas – mound-like shrines filled with relics and ritual offerings – erected among the red rocks. Located near Chimney Rock at the base of Thunder Mountain, Amitabha Stupa and Peace Park stretch across 14 acres of junipers and pinyon pines.

The peace park was created by Kunzang Palyul Choling (KPC), a Buddhist organization and study center with roots in Tibet. The 36ft (11m) Amitabha stupa, built according to principles of sacred architecture and geometry, was completed and consecrated in 2004; a bronze image of its namesake Buddha of Limitless Light is inside the stupa’s faceplate. The 6ft (2m), white Tara Stupa is named for the female Buddha. Practicing Buddhists pray to her for health, longevity and compassion. Anyone can visit this site: the organization emphasizes that it’s a place for “prayer, meditation and the experience of peace,” regardless of one’s faith.

2. Sip local Arizona wines

While you shouldn’t confuse it with Sonoma, Sedona sits in Central Arizona’s Verde Valley at almost a mile in elevation, making it a great region for grape growing. Downtown, the Art of Wine provides a primer on local wines with by-the-glass offerings. And this range is far-reaching: Bordeaux blends, a single-varietal malbec, the familiar chardonnays and rieslings, plus an Arizona fave, Malvasia Bianca, a fruity white with a floral bouquet. Less than half a mile away is Winery 1912, which features Spanish and Iberian varietals grown at Dragoon Mountain Vineyard in the town of Willcox, one of Arizona’s three unique American Viticultural Areas (AVA) (the other two are nearby Verde Valley and Sonoita, south of Tucson).

Winemaking isn’t new to Arizona (Jesuit priests first planted grapes here in the 1690s) – or even to this desert city. Back in the 1880s, when Sedona was a budding village, a homesteader planted grape vines in the high-desert grasslands, where the combination of warm days and cool nights created favorable growing conditions. Sedona today is once again leaning into these agricultural roots, and a number of companies now offer tours to wineries along the Verde Valley Wine Trail.

Planning tip: Skip the driving and learn as you sip. Sip Sedona Wine Tours offers customized excursions led by a wine-industry professional, while Wine Tours of Sedona has a range of fun tours, including a date night for two at one of the area’s estate vineyards.

3. Photograph the desert landscape

Featuring such evocative shapes as cathedrals, castles, bells – and even Snoopy reclining on his doghouse – Sedona’s landscape is like a city carved out of sandstone. The sheer diversity of these red-rock formations is a draw for photographers (pros and Instagrammers alike), with bright-blue skies providing contrast to the iron-rich rock and dark-green junipers that frame undulating trails.

The desert’s drama softens in spring (late April through June) when delicate fuchsia and yellow flowers bloom from the paddles of prickly pears and branches of cholla cactuses, lending color and whimsy to these spiky plants. Visit in winter and you might witness a veil of snowy white to the ancient peaks.

4. Go on a guided full-moon hike

Walking through the desert in the coolness of the evening when it’s aglow with moonlight puts a fresh spin on exploring Sedona’s terrain. You don’t need to wander alone to watch the last light of the day burn out as the moon makes its ascent: naturalists at Red Rock State Park offer guided interpretive hikes during the full moon. The tour covers two miles and you’ll learn about Sedona’s fascinating geology, history and plant life.

5. Taste high-desert cuisine

“Southwestern” food is one of those all-encompassing terms that can describe multitudes. In Sedona, though, you’ll sometimes see the term “high-desert cuisine” on menus – with rattlesnake as an extreme example, alongside tamer examples like peach cobbler. Syrups made from agave plants and the ripe fruits of prickly pear (or “tuna”) cactus make welcome additions to cocktails, especially margaritas. The pads of those same cactuses, called nopales, turn up in a salad at award-winning Elote Café, and you’ll often find them sizzled up like fries, such as at Cowboy Club.

Local tip: Linger at Cowboy Club to soak in some Hollywood history. Back in the day, celebrities like Elvis Presley, Joan Crawford, John Wayne and Rock Hudson hung out here, often when working on the Westerns filmed in the area during the 1950s and ’60s.

6. Watch the sunrise from a hot-air balloon

Imagine the feeling of weightlessness and 360-degree views while drifting above Sedona’s buttes, mesas and pinnacles as the sun slowly climbs, bathing the red rocks in light. A hot-air balloon ride offers an awe-inspiring way to get oriented to the sprawling landscape. Flights take off early when the wind conditions are most favorable and last for up to four hours. What’s more, this mode of exploration is a more environmentally sound way to see Sedona from above. In an effort to enhance the city’s natural peace and quiet as part of its Sustainable Tourism Plan, the city of Sedona has asked helicopter tour operators to adhere to no-fly zones.

Planning tip: Tour operators such as Northern Light Balloon Expeditions and Red Rock Balloon Adventures provide year-round sunrise trips (the latter has some closures in summer), so check the schedule before you travel if you have your heart set on a flight.

7. Mountain-bike desert trails

The two million acres of national forest land and 200 trails traversing 400 miles in Sedona means the potential for riding single-track routes is boundless. People new to mountain biking can find plenty of wider and less-steep routes to get comfortable in the saddle, including parts of Slim Shady and the Bell Rock trail. Advanced riders might want to take on the Hangover trail or Cathedral Rock Big Loop, which gains 1054ft (321m) in elevation.

With Sedona’s mild weather, you can go mountain biking any time. (Be aware that heavy rainfall can create flash floods during the summer monsoon season.) Cyclists will enjoy visiting in March, for the three-day Sedona Mountain Bike Festival.

For those enchanted by the desert and its quiet beauty, check out these dreamy day trips.

Local tip: Remember to never “bust the crust.” These signs on Sedona’s multi-use trails are reminders of the fragility of the desert ecosystem – and to stick to the pathways.

8. Learn more about Indigenous cultures

Indigenous people first settled in the fertile Verde Valley as far back as 650 BCE: first the Sinagua, followed by the Hopi, Yavapai and Apache. You can discover these cultures’ histories at Arizona’s national parks, and monuments and historic sites run by the US Forest Services, including Palatki, Honanki and Crane Petroglyph (formerly called V Bar V). At these living archeological sites, you can take a guided tour along unpaved pathways to see cave dwellings carved out of the sandstone, and discover the difference between petroglyphs and rock art. Before you go, brush up on your archeological site etiquette.

Another way to learn about Sedona’s thriving Indigenous culture is by – yes – shopping. Fine arts and crafts are for sale at a handful of top-quality galleries and boutiques, such as Sedona Artist Market & Gallery, Hoel’s Indian Shop and Garland’s, where staff are generous with their time and knowledge. Every vintage blanket, squash-blossom necklace and sand painting has a fascinating story of culture and craftsmanship passed down through generations.

Local tip: Shop carefully to make sure you’re purchasing truly Indigenous-made artifacts rather than knockoffs.

9. Slide down a sandstone chute

It’s not unusual to find a swimming hole near a clear creek – but one with a natural slide? To skim down an 80ft (24m) sandstone chute into Oak Creek, grab your gear and head to Slide Rock State Park. The park’s stone channel has a seven-percent decline and gets its slickness from algae, which helps slingshot swimmers into the creek’s cool water. It’s one of the many free things to do in Sedona.

Local tip: With half a mile of the creek to splash around in, wildlife clusters in Slide Rock in summer. Think more than 140 bird species (look for hummingbirds and Steller’s jays), javelinas (aka “skunk pigs”), Coues (pronounced “cows”) white-tailed deer and even black bears.

10. Search for UFOs in an International Dark Sky Place

With billionaires blasting off to explore space, would it be such a stretch to think that aliens are visiting us, too? Not in Sedona, which is considered a superb place to see otherworldly aircraft. First off, it’s ultra-dark in Sedona (Oak Creek Village is on the roster of International Dark Sky Places), so it’s easier to pinpoint potential extraterrestrial activity pulsating in those clear, jet-black skies. Second, people believe Sedona has four vortexes – natural sites that emanate a type of energy.

Sedona’s metaphysical community offers educational tours that typically combine UFO sightings (many guarantee you’ll see paranormal activity) and vortex visits; you can only imagine what you might make out when staring at the stars while wearing military-grade night-vision goggles. Regardless of whether you’re a believer, you’ll find out why so many people find Sedona a mystical place.

11. Gaze up at the Chapel of the Holy Cross

The soaring Chapel of the Holy Cross, set on a 200ft rise against a backdrop of dazzling pink and red buttes, is among the most beautiful sights in Sedona.

Just south of the city on State Road 179 and within Coconino National Forest, the chapel, completed in 1956, is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Marguerite Brunswig Staude, a sculptor and local rancher, was inspired by the newly built Empire State Building to commission building the chapel. Its most distinctive feature – besides the view – is its 90ft iron cross.

Planning tip: There’s a bit of a climb from the parking area, so wear comfortable shoes.

12. Indulge in a luxurious resort

There are many high-end resorts to choose from in Sedona, including L’Auberge de Sedona. Located on the banks of Oak Creek, this resort has a natural spa and views of the red rocks in the distance. Its wonderful restaurant, with a menu featuring French–inspired dishes with an American flair, is designed for leisurely dining, conversation and sipping wine.

13. Explore a mini-Grand Canyon: Oak Creek Canyon

Oak Creek Canyon is sometimes described as a magical, miniature Grand Canyon. The canyon’s two-lane road twists and turns through deep gorges and high cliffs, winding through one of the largest juniper forests in the world. The canyon is a stunner in the fall, when the leaves reach their crescendo of color.

Amazing and intriguing recreational opportunities include the hike to Midgley Bridge and Slide Rock State Park, a former 43-acre apple farm. You can still pick apples there in the fall and the park is also home to the state’s largest natural water slide. Wear your bathing suit in the summer and descend 80ft into Oak Creek – but be warned. The water is typically cold and the smooth rocky bottom slippery.

Detour: The real Grand Canyon is just over two hours away.

14. Channel your spiritual energy at Boynton Canyon

Part of the sacred land of the Yavapai–Apache Nation, Boynton Canyon is surrounded by soaring buttes, red rock cliffs and a high desert landscape studded with giant Ponderosa pines. As the location of the Kachina Woman Vortex, one of four energy vortexes in the area, it’s one of the most magical places in Sedona. The Boynton Canyon trail is also one of the most popular in Sedona due to Subway Cave

A parking area nearby makes the canyon easily accessible. Take a hike on the dog-friendly, 6.1 mile trail. Though there are some steep inclines, the hike is considered easy-to-moderate. Wildlife includes rabbits, whitetail deer and javelinas. Though the latter look fierce (and smell even worse), they’ll keep out of your way unless threatened.

15. Immerse yourself in the red rocks along a scenic byway

A two-lane road, the Red Rock Scenic Byway connects centuries of cultural significance, awe-inspiring natural sites, the land’s long history and recreational opportunities.

The byway is just 14.49 miles long, but the drive is so stunning, you can expect it to take an hour or more. Keep your camera ready for amazing vistas and soaring cliffs, wildlife and desert landscapes.

A must-stop on the byway is the castle-like Bell Rock, shaped from red sandstone and surrounded by greenery, standing at almost 5000ft. South of Sedona and north of Oak Creek, Bell Rock has long drawn visitors with its beauty and energy, said to instill a sense of serenity in onlookers.

The 2.8-mile trail to and from the butte is a moderately challenging route, as is the Bell Rock Pathway, a 3.6-mile trail.

Make sure to plan plenty of time for photo ops and enjoy the views as you navigate through the awe-inspiring Coconino National Forest.

Planning tip: A parking area is available at the Bell Rock trailhead, though you may have to wait a few minutes for a parking space. For those who like to avoid crowds, early morning and late afternoon are the best times to visit.

16. Experience traditional arts, culture and food at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Center

Celebrate local and regional art and culture at Tlaquepaque Arts and Shopping Center, which offers the ambiance of a Mexican village. Like Tlaquepaque, the centuries-old art colony near Guadalajara, the center abounds with artists and their work.

Wander under adobe arches and along cobblestone streets, past fountains and public art installations. Poke around galleries featuring textiles, pottery, oils and statues.

As unique as the setting and art, restaurants run the gamut, from Mexican to Italian. For a traditional experience, enjoy sweet corn tamales and shrimp tacos while sipping a margarita and listening to flamenco music at El Rincon Restaurante Mexicano.

17. Hang out in trendy West Sedona

Those who only visit uptown Sedona with its trendy bars, eateries and many shops are missing some of this red rock city’s best neighborhoods.

West Sedona offers an exciting food scene and a cool but neighborly vibe. Dining in West Sedona is like choosing from a world-wide smorgasbord.

Have a taste for French? Sedona Crepes offers both savory and sweet crepes. For Mexican food, check out the shredded beef chimichangas at Los Rosales or the chile cheese rellenos at Nick’s on the West Side, a casual eatery. Order Asian dishes at Szechuan Restaurant and Fresh & Natural Thai Kitchen, or go for creative American food at Casa Sedona Inn, a resort tucked away in a forest of Juniper pines and known for its breakfast and brunch.

Keep planning your trip to Sedona

Discover the best time to visit this four-season city and how to get around.

Get inspired by day trips and free things to do.

The distances within Scotland may seem small – but the country’s landscapes are epic.

A journey that seems just a few miles as the crow flies can take hours once you factor in all the glens, lochs and mountains in the way. Remember, too, that large parts of Scotland lie off the mainland, scattered among the choppy waters of the North Sea and the Atlantic.

With this in mind, the most important consideration when planning a trip around Scotland is time. On a fleeting visit, try not to be too ambitious about how much ground you can cover, and plan train journeys and ferry trips in advance so you’re not caught off guard by limited schedules in outlying areas.

Cost-wise, getting around in Scotland can be expensive compared to the rest of Europe. Despite an impressive network of train, bus and ferry routes, the easiest option is usually to travel with your own car, particularly if you want to get off the tartan-and-shortbread tourist trail. Yet outlays can mount quickly if you plan to park in larger cities or take your car on the ferry.

Traveline Scotland is a good source of information and up-to-date timetables on all forms of transit, including ferries and short flights to the Scottish islands. And our breakdown of the different ways to get around the country will help you get your dream trip to Scotland planned in no time.

The train is a great option between major towns and cities

Scotland’s extensive train network covers all major cities and towns. But do keep in mind that the railway map has large blank areas in the Highlands and the Southern Uplands where you’ll need to switch to road transport – in many cases, a local bus.

The West Highland line, from Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig, and the Inverness–to–Kyle of Lochalsh line are two of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. ScotRail’s website is a good source of information on routes, fares and timetables.

Buses serve most places – but not always frequently

Scotland is served by an extensive bus network that covers most of the country. In remote rural areas, however, services are geared to the needs of locals, for example shuttling students to school or the shoppers to the nearest large town. This means they may not be conveniently timed to the needs of visitors.

Often, buses run into towns and cities in the morning and back to outlying villages in the afternoon – which is inconvenient for those planning day trips. Local bus services are particularly sparse on the islands: the last postbus – a rustic rural transport operation that saw passengers joining vans with the mail service – ceased operation in 2017.

Several bus companies operate services around Scotland, with long-haul routes to destinations in England provided by National Express and Megabus. Within Scotland, Scottish Citylink runs a network of comfortable, reliable buses between large towns. Away from the main roads, you’ll need to switch to local buses, which are often much less frequent. First, Stagecoach and Lothian Buses are the main local bus operators.

A car or motorcycle of your own gives you the most flexibility

Scotland’s roads are generally well-maintained and are far less busy than those in England, meaning you can concentrate on all that lovely scenery. Do keep in mind that authorities take speeding and drunk driving seriously, with speed traps common. Stick to the limits.

A non-UK license is valid in Britain for up to 12 months from your date of entry into the country, and you’ll need to be age 21 or over to rent a car; surcharges and restrictions apply for drivers age 25 or under. Renting in town is usually cheaper than at the airport.

If you’re bringing your own car from Europe, make sure you’re adequately insured, always drive on the left and stay aware of local speed limits. If you’re planning a road trip encompassing the UK and the Republic of Ireland, car ferries run from Scotland to Northern Ireland, allowing you to loop south before getting back on a ferry to Wales and England, and then heading back north to Scotland. Make sure your insurance covers your time passing through an EU country.

Limited mainly to southern and central Scotland, motorways (designated “M”) are toll-free dual carriageways; you’ll quickly notice their absence once you drive north of Perth. Main roads (“A”) are dual or single carriageways and are sometimes clogged with slow-moving trucks and caravans. The A9 from Perth to Inverness is notoriously busy.

Life on the road is more relaxed and interesting on the secondary roads (designated “B”) and minor roads (no letter) – though in the Highlands and on the islands, there’s the added hazard of sheep wandering onto the road (be particularly wary of lambs in spring). Winter driving conditions can be challenging; keep food, water and blankets in the car in case of blocked roads or breakdowns.

Gasoline is more expensive than in countries such as the US or Australia but roughly in line with the rest of Western Europe. Prices tend to rise as you get further from the main centers and can be more than 10% higher in remote areas, where gas stations are far apart and sometimes closed on Sundays. Fill up whenever you get the chance.

Tip for renting a car: Inter-island car ferries can be a major cost. If you’re planning to visit the Outer Hebrides, Orkney or Shetland, it’ll often prove cheaper to hire a car once you arrive on the islands rather than paying to take your rental across on the ferry.

Ferries cross the lochs and link the Scottish islands

Ferries run by Caledonian MacBrayne (CalMac) serve Scotland’s west coast and the myriad islands to the north and west of the country, with smaller local ferries linking the islands of the Inner Hebrides to the mainland.

Northlink Ferries travel from Aberdeen and Scrabster (near Thurso) to Orkney, from Orkney to Shetland, and from Aberdeen to Shetland. Tourist-oriented water bus services ferry passengers across some of Scotland’s larger lochs, including Loch Lomond.

CalMac offers some pre-bundled inter-island tickets on its website, which also has comprehensive timetable information. Note that ferry services are significantly reduced in winter.

Tickets for passengers on foot cost a fraction of the price charged for cars, so consider picking up a rental car once you arrive on a given island rather than taking your car across.

Tips for traveling by ferry: If you feel up to tackling the islands by bike, bicycles can be carried for free by foot passengers – particularly useful when reaching smaller islands by ferry. On most routes, children under 5 also travel for free, while kids ages 5 to 15 pay half the adult rate.

Domestic flights link up remote island communities

Domestic air services in Scotland either cater to business travelers or serve as lifelines for remote island communities. Flying is a costly way to cover relatively short distances, both for your own pocket and the environment – yet this is an option worth considering if you’re short on time and want to visit the Outer Hebrides, Orkney or Shetland. And especially if you’re an aviation geek: with a journey time of as little as 1 minute, the flight between Westray and Papa Westray in Orkney is the shortest scheduled flight in the world.

The main domestic airline in Scotland is Loganair, with flights from Glasgow, Edinburgh, Aberdeen and Inverness to many smaller destinations across Scotland, including inter-island flights in Orkney. Hebridean Air Services flies from Connel airfield near Oban to the islands of Coll, Tiree, Colonsay and Islay.

Cycling is ideal for exploring the islands

In a country as compact as Scotland, traveling around by bicycle is a perfectly feasible proposition if you have the time – and the stamina. Indeed, touring around the islands on a bike is both cheaper than driving (with lower ferry fares, too; see above) and better suited to the islands’ short distances and leisurely pace of life. Any pedaler should be ready for uncooperative winds and weather, and persistent midges at rest stops in spring and summer.

VisitScotland has good information about bike rentals, while Sustrans details routes that form part of the UK-wide National Cycle Network. Spanning 200 miles (322km) and 10 windswept islands between Vatersay and the Butt of Lewis, the Hebridean Way is a bonafide cycling classic.

Transport Passes for Scotland offer good savings on trains, buses and ferries

Even with the multitude of companies providing different forms of public transport in Scotland, there are a few useful passes that allow intermodal travel on trains, buses, ferries and other forms of transport. ScotRail’s Spirit of Scotland pass allows unlimited travel on trains, buses and ferries for foot passengers, for either four days of travel over eight consecutive days (£149) or eight days of travel over 15 consecutive days (£189). There are also several other passes for train travel across Scotland or within specific regions, plus combined passes for trains and buses or trains and ferries.

Scotland is also part of the same scheme of rail passes as the rest of the UK, with various options offering up to a third off standard rail fares, usually for a one-off annual fee of £30 – a good deal if you’ll be making lots of journeys by train or are on a longer trip.

Although the Scottish government’s generous free-transport scheme for young people is only open to Scottish residents, visitors can get discounts using the 16–25 and 26–30 rail cards; there’s also a Senior Railcard for the over-60s. For travelers with kids in tow, the Family & Friends Railcard is a smart investment. Note that all these cards cover train travel across the UK, not just Scotland.

Several bus companies offer their own transport passes. Stagecoach has the Megarider, offering savings of at least 40% compared to buying daily tickets: passes are valid for seven or 28 days and cover specific areas of the country. Citylink has the Explorer Pass, allowing unlimited travel on their buses for three days within a timeframe of five consecutive days; five days within 10 consecutive days; or eight days within 16 consecutive days.

Accessible transportation in Scotland

Travelers with disabilities will find that Scotland can be both impressively accessible and frustratingly tricky to navigate. Larger cities are the most well-adapted locations for mobility issues: buses and local trains are wheelchair-accessible, pavements and buildings have ramps, and most access points are well set up.

Across the country, most major tourist sights cater to those with mobility issues, though historic buildings and ancient sights can be harder to explore for the less mobile. The biggest challenge will be the hills, which can make getting around a chore even in the middle of Edinburgh. Efforts are underway to make the countryside more accessible, with wheelchair-friendly nature trails in some areas.

Away from the cities, newer buses are usually wheelchair-accessible, though it’s wise to check before setting out. Older train stations are being upgraded to ensure they are accessible, and disabled travelers can get extra assistance by filing a request an hour or more ahead of travel – the ScotRail website has details.

The Disabled Persons Railcard offers discounts on rail travel for eligible travelers and a companion. Ferries offer boarding assistance at staffed ports for disabled travelers, and large boats usually have accessible toilets and cabins.

Tourist attractions usually have reserved parking spaces near the entrance for drivers with disabilities. Many places, such as ticket offices, are fitted with hearing loops to assist the hearing-impaired; look for a posted symbol of a large ear. VisitScotland has information on accessible transportation and accommodations, along with information on beach-wheelchair rentals.

What’s perhaps the strangest thing about the Yucatán Peninsula? That this rain-rich, jungle-clad region of Mexico features a complete lack of rivers.

Rather than pooling in streams, the water that falls here seeps through the peninsula’s base of permeable limestone.

The result is an underworld of interconnected subterranean rivers and semi-submerged caverns – a unique geographical calling card that has spawned millennia of myths, and which continues to intrigue to this day.

Over the centuries, many of these cavern roofs have collapsed, exposing the underground water to the sky – forming Yucatán’s famous cenotes, ideal spots for swimming, diving and beating the brutal heat.

Since thousands of these watering holes dot Yucatán, we’ve suggested a few of the best ones to add to your list – 10 reasons why the peninsula is a place of singular natural wonders. 

Overall planning tip: Unless stated otherwise below, most cenotes can only be accessed by car or by taking a tour. Prices start at around M$80 (US$4) per person, but can rise to 10 times that when including guided tours and equipment rental. 

1. Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich

Best for a full Maya experience
8 miles north of Tulum

Cenote Nohoch Nah Chich (or “giant bird cage” in the Mayan language) is located on land owned and operated by a Mayan family – a parcel locally known as Rancho San Felipe.

Although you can visit the cenote solo, with your entry fee including rental of a life jacket and a snorkel, we highly recommend guided snorkeling tours of the cenote and caves.

This way, you can explore the stalactite- and stalagmite-covered caverns that aren’t accessible to general visitors.

These spaces are just about accessible with a snorkel, thanks to the sliver of air at the top of the caverns, which form part of the Sistema Sac Altun, thought to be the world’s longest underwater cave system at 229 miles (369km) long.

You can also take in a traditional Maya purification ceremony and buffet that includes typical Maya dishes such as panuchos and papdzules.

Planning tip: As with all swimmable cenotes on this list (unless stated otherwise), you’ll need to bring your own towel, bathing suit, sandals or similar, along with some money (cash is the best option) for renting lockers and buying refreshments.

2. Cenote Dos Ojos

Best for snorkeling
11 miles north of Tulum

The jungle surrounding Cenote Dos Ojos (“two eyes”) is packed with hundreds of small cenotes, which in turn attract plenty of wildlife in the early morning and evening.

The main pool at Dos Ojos consists of a “pupil” of rock in the center, around which sits an azure “iris” of crystalline water, partly exposed to the sky.

Such a configuration makes it ideal for snorkeling. More-adventurous visitors may want to swim deeper into the caves of the gloomier second “eye.”

Experienced divers (equipment and flashlights are available to rent) can delve deeper into either of the cenotes, which are both connected to an extensive underground system. The Dos Ojos site also has a (water-free) bat cave, shower rooms, hammocks and laid-back cafe.

Planning tip: The best way to get to Dos Ojos is by car or as part of a tour. To reach the site on a budget, you can hop on a colectivo in Playa del Carmen or Tulum, disembark at Jacinto Pat and walk the 1.6 (2½km) miles along a dirt road. Bring plenty of water.

3.  Gran Cenote

Best for experienced cave divers
2.5 miles north of Tulum

While generally considered to be a top choice for scuba diving and snorkeling, Gran Cenote’s assortment of pools and caverns allow for many activities.

Scuba divers can explore submerged caverns – being sure to take care to avoid the clusters of stalactites and stalagmites above and below.

Because precise diving is required to avoid damaging these unique structures, only fully certified cave divers are allowed into Gran Cenote’s depths.

Yet there’s plenty to be said for the combination of clear water and snorkeling gear back on the surface, where turtles and fish ply the water.

Planning tip: To maintain the clarity of the water and protect the species living within, visitors are not allowed to swim while wearing sunscreen. You’ll need to take a shower (facilities are available on-site) before entering the water.

4. Cenote Zací

Best for easy access
In Valladolid’s historic center

The city of Valladolid is a great base for visiting many of the best cenotes in the Yucatán, as well as the ruins at Chichén Itzá.

But no cenote is easier to reach than Cenote Zací, which lies at the core of the city, only three blocks east of the Parque Principal.

The cenote is named for the Maya settlement that existed here until the arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century.

Although the water may not be as clear and the cavern roof not quite as impressive as some cenotes on this list, it still makes for an impressive swimming spot – not least given the busy city streets surrounding it.

Vegetation grows up the sides of the sinkhole, and water occasionally cascades down into the pool from above.  

Planning tip: If you’re staying nearby and plan to swim, it might be worth coming prepared with a swimsuit under your clothes since use of the changing rooms costs extra. Wearing of life jackets (provided at the site) is obligatory.

5. Cenote de Dzitnup

Best for swimming in dramatic caverns
3 miles southwest of Valladolid

Legend has it that a snuffling pig discovered Cenote de Dzitnup in the 1950s. Today, steps lead down into the cavern, whose small opening allows sunlight to paint the pool of water below turquoise.

Curiously, the cenote is also known as X’kekén and is often confused for Cenote Samulá, a smaller, shallower cavern cenote located on the grounds of Parque X’kekén.

Swimming in both cenotes, alongside shoals of languid blackfish beneath a roof spiked with hundreds of stalactites, is an eerie experience indeed.

Planning tip: There’s a changing room close to the steps down into Cenote de Dzitnup, but you’ll need sturdy sandals for the descent.

6. Cenotes Agua Dulce y Palomitas

Best for a limestone natural wonder
17 miles northeast of Valladolid

One forested site northeast of Valladolid hosts two underground cenotes. Both Agua Dulce (“freshwater”) and Palomitas (meaning either “little doves,” or more commonly “popcorn”) feel more like caves than your average cenote, since both have small openings in their roofs leading to vast water-filled chasms.

At both, the rock above the water is tight-packed with thousands of spear-like stalactites, which were formed by minerals slowly deposited over many thousands of years.

You’ll access both cenotes in novel ways. The larger of the two, Palomitas is reached via stone steps cut directly into the limestone.

But if you’re planning to swim in the cenote, there’s no more dramatic entrance than at Agua Dulce, where a spiral staircase corkscrews down through the tiny opening at the top of the cavern, straight into the water.

Planning tip: You must pay separately to enter each of the cenotes. If you only want to visit one, Agua Dulce is the more impressive.

7. Cenote Sagrado

Best for history lovers
Within the Chichén Itzá site

Whenever you find an ancient Maya city, you’ll no doubt find a cenote nearby. The water sources sustained thriving urban populations, and eventually became significantly intertwined with Maya folklore and ritual.

Chichén Itzá, which many archaeologists suspect was the most important religious center in the Maya world, has two cenotes at its center. (Indeed, Chichén Itzá means “at the mouth of Itzá’s well”).

That revered well is today referred to as Cenote Sagrado (Sacred Cenote). A sacbe (raised stone road) directly connects it to El Castillo, the site’s famous main temple – marking the final leg of what, for many in the Maya world, was the most important pilgrimage one could complete.

These days, the sacred and archaeological value of Cenote Sagrado means recreational use is prohibited, yet visitors can still enjoy good views over the murky green water from above.

In the early 20th century, the bottom was dredged, revealing a large number of votive offerings in gold and jade (treasures that mostly were removed from the country, sadly) – but few human remains.

These discoveries undermined the grizzly assumption that the cenote was used for human sacrifice, although this notion still stubbornly persists.

Planning tip: Chichén Itzá can get extremely busy once the tour buses show up. Check the site’s latest hours online and aim to arrive 15–30 minutes before the gates open to enjoy the site and cenote without the crowds.

8. Cenote Ik Kil

Best add-on to a Chichén Itzá visit
2 miles east of Chichén Itzá

The landscape around Chichén Itzá is riddled with cenotes, some of them major attractions that draw plenty of visitors thanks to their proximity to the ruins.

Among them, Cenote Ik Kil is the most popular spot – and deservedly so thanks to its photogenic cascades of tree roots and vines, which drip over the lip of the cenote toward the water 131ft (40m) below the surface.

At around 100 pesos (US$5) for admission, it is also one of the better-value cenotes to visit, particularly if you don’t plan to swim. Just be prepared to share the space with plenty of other visitors.

Planning tip: Ik Kil offers a wide range of amenities, with decent lockers, changing rooms and a wide staircase with chains to hold on to as you descend toward the water. As always, sporting decent footwear is recommended.

9. Cenote Yokdzonot

Best for natural beauty
11 miles west of Chichén Itzá

Cenote Yokdzonot is a success story for the local Maya. In 2005, a group of women from Yokdzonot town belonging to the Zaaz Koolen Háa Cooperative decided to do something about the forlorn and overlooked cenote on the edge of town, planting gardens and building trails.

Today, their work has resulted in one of the best-tended, cleanest and prettiest cenotes in the entire Yucatán Peninsula.

Trees crowd around the cenote, their tangled roots dangling down to the water, enhancing the natural beauty of this remarkable geological formation.

You can zip-line over the water, relax in a hammock or grab a bite at the restaurant. Better yet, with a trip here, you know that your money will be going directly to a local Maya community.

Planning tip: Although the best way to reach Cenote Yokdzonot is by car, the town is on the main Valladolid–Chichén Itzá–Mérida road, so it’s possible to get a local colectivo to drop you off in Yokdzonot along the way. The cenote is four blocks south of the central plaza.

10. Cenote Azul

Best for photogenic vistas
3 miles south of Bacalar

Lake Bacalar is revered for its brilliant blues. Every imaginable hue, from glowing cerulean to rich royal blue, transforms its shallow waters when the sun is out. Just south of Bacalar town, Cenote Azul (Blue Cenote) sits like a navy punctuation mark on the lake’s shoreline.

The 300-ft-deep (90m-deep) sinkhole, one of the Yucatán Peninsula’s largest, is separated from the lake by a thin strip of forest. In this way, it feels like an extension of the lake. While this makes it better for more-capable swimmers, snorkeling along the shallows at the edge of the cenote is also possible.

With four seasons, a long multi-cultural history, and a sprawling metroplex, there’s a lot to see and do in Dallas year round. But when you go can depend on how much you want to spend, what festivals you’re hoping to experience, and the degree of tolerance you have for the high heat and humidity that settle on the city during the summer months.

Each season brings something new to the city, and is worthy of a visit. If your travel plans are flexible, you might even consider planning multiple visits throughout the year to experience it all. Four days in Dallas, Texas can help you hit the city’s highlights, though you could easily fill a week or more. 

So, when is the best time to visit Dallas? Here’s the skinny on the high (temperatures), the low (seasons), and the month-by-months.

High season: June to September

Best time for indoor activities

The summer “high” or busy season in Dallas runs from June through September–or, at least, that’s when the heat finally begins to wane. Dallas may be hot in the summertime, but that’s still when people have PTO to burn and the kids are out of school. Expect higher hotel prices during the summer, and extra competition for the beer garden seats in front of the fans and sprayers. In fact, the average hotel rates in Dallas during the peak tourist season are double that of the rates in the low season, reaching $250 a night on average.

Summer is not only peak tourist season, but also the peak of the heat. One thing to know about Texas is that it can experience some extreme weather. Despite the temperatures, outdoor activities are still popular. Just make sure to pack plenty of water and take long breaks. When you need to cool off, take advantage of Dallas’ love affair with air conditioning by ducking into shops, restaurants, bars, museums, and live music venues.

Shoulder seasons: March to May and September to November

Best time for outdoor activities

If you’re wondering when the best time of year to visit Dallas is for mild weather, the shoulder season is the answer. There are actually two shoulder seasons in the city: March to May and September to November. 

With cooler temperatures, spring and fall are prime time in Dallas for enjoying the city’s parks, food trucks, pedestrian trails, and patios. Visit in these seasons and you’ll have a chance to jog your way to the Katy Trail Icehouse without soaking in sweat or take in the skyline from Trinity Groves without the heat shimmering on the horizon.

However, keep in mind that while the shoulder seasons bring cooler temperatures, they can also bring more rain. March through May and September through November are considered the rainy season in Dallas. Luckily, rain showers tend to be short and rainy periods often last less than two days at a time. Storm season in Dallas falls in the spring each year and can bring strong storms, though these tend to pass quickly as well.

These shoulder seasons fall between the busy summer season and the holidays, which means that popular tourist attractions, malls, and other popular destinations tend to be less crowded.

Low season: November to March

Best time to visit for fewer crowds

If you’re really looking to enjoy the city with less crowds, the winter “low” season is the perfect time to visit. Running from November to March, with the exception of the holidays, these months often feature smaller crowds at Dallas’ most popular attractions.

With hotel prices at their lowest and the crowds thinned out in popular spots like Dealey Plaza, you’ll really have some elbow room no matter where you go. 

You can still enjoy outdoor activities in Dallas during the winter months if you pack correctly. You won’t have to fight the heat and humidity, but you’ll want to pack some cozy layers – it can still get chilly in Dallas. While snow isn’t that common, the city has been known to experience an ice storm from time to time. Many of the city’s parks and other outdoor attractions stay open year-round and have special activities to enjoy around the holidays. For example, The Dallas Arboretum is open all year and has a holiday festival.

Sports season: September to December and October to March

Best time to visit for sports and festivals 

If you want to catch a game or take part in Dallas’ famous festivals, you have a few options. The main sports seasons in the city run from September to December and October to March each year. But you’ll find festivals throughout the year.

Dallas has two professional sports teams: the Dallas Cowboys and the Dallas Mavericks. The Cowboys season usually runs from September to December, while the Mavericks season runs from October to March.

If you’re visiting during one of these seasons, you can hit up a festival at the same time. The State Fair of Texas occurs in Dallas from late September to mid-October each year. The best time to go to the State Fair is later in the season when the initial crowds have started to fade and temperatures are getting cooler. 

The Riverfront Jazz Festival falls in September as well, while the popular Autumn at the Arboretum, which features more than 100,000 pumpkins, gourds, and squashes, runs through September and October each year.

Visiting Dallas: a month-by-month guide

It’s not just every season that brings something new to Dallas, Texas. Each month is packed with unique activities and must-dos for your next visit.

January

Dallas eases into the New Year with dry weather and a parade honoring Martin Luther King Jr. that culminates in festivities at the African American Museum on the grounds of Fair Park. Also on deck is the KidFilm Festival, the oldest and (and the biggest, this is Texas after all) all-ages film festival in the country.

Key Events: MLK Parade on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, KidFilm Festival during mid-January

Weather: Daily average highs in the high 50s°F  and lows in the high 30s°F, with just five days of rain on average

February

Dallas is balanced geographically between the Gulf states and the southwest, so it’s maybe not surprising that the city takes a cue from its eastern neighbors and has its own Mardi Gras celebration every February featuring live country music at the Historic State Fairgrounds.

Key Events: Dallas Blooms from late February to early April, West End Mardi Gras on the Sunday after Fat Tuesday

Weather: Daily average highs in the low 60s°F and lows in the low 40s°F, with six days of rain on average

March

Since 1983, March has been all about honoring the Irish American community in North Texas, which itself dates back to the 1700s. The Irish Festival involves Celtic music, traditional dancing, and even some horse shows – this is Texas after all.

Key Events: North Texas Irish Festival during the first weekend in March, St. Patrick’s Day Parade

Weather: Daily average highs in the low 70s°F and lows in low 50s°F, with seven days of rain on average

April

The prime spring weather – still relatively cool and dry – is perfect for festivals and happenings. Cue Dallas Arts Month, a full slate of gallery showings, art talks, and even true crime theater experiences. If you love art, this should definitely be on your Dallas itinerary. Next up is Deep Ellum Arts Fest. What started as a small neighborhood block party has turned into a major event with 100 original bands and singer-songwriters rocking out from 5 stages, a juried arts show, street performances, and food trucks galore.

Key Events: Dallas Arts Month throughout the month, Deep Ellum Arts Fest during the first weekend in April

Weather: Daily average high in the high 70s°F and lows in the high 50s°F, with seven days of rain on average

May

As the weather starts to warm up, Texans turn to indoor events like the International Film Festival or savor the last of the spring weather in Richardson at Cottonwood Arts Festival. What started as a little hippie happening in 1969 has since evolved into a serious juried art show that features over 200 works of art as well as hands-on activities for kids and families.

Key Events: Dallas International Film Festival at the very end of the month, Cottonwood Arts Festival during the first weekend in May

Weather: Daily average high in the mid-80s°F and lows in the mid-60s°F, with eight days of rain on average.

June

Things start to heat up with Taste of Dallas, a beloved celebration of the city’s restaurant scene. Reunion Tower (that’s the big disco lollypop on the skyline) hosts parties in the park at the base of the building, complete with live music, lawn games, and plenty of cold beer. Best of all, Juneteenth on the 19th commemorates the day the last slaves in Texas learned they had been freed by the Emancipation Proclamation two years earlier. The MLK Community Center, The University of Texas at Dallas Multicultural Center, and African American museum are just a few of the institutions who put on celebratory events.

Key Events: Taste of Dallas during the second weekend in June, Juneteenth, Reunion Lawn Party from June through August

Weather: Daily highs in the mid-90s°F and lows in the mid-70s°F, with six days of rain on average.

July

Since 1972, Dallas has had its own Shakespeare company. Every summer, they present live productions at the Samuell-Grand Amphitheatre in East Dallas. Also in July, Fair Park puts on a big celebration for the Fourth, with water shows, fireworks, food trucks, and more.

Key Events: Shakespeare Festival runs from mid-June to mid-July without another festival in the fall, Fair Park Fourth on the Fourth of July

Weather: Daily highs in the high 90s°F and lows in the high 70s°F, with three days of rain on average

August

August ushers in the hottest temperatures of the year to Dallas. While this is a great time to hit the pool at your hotel or home rental, there’s still plenty going on throughout the city. DFW Restaurant Week is a great excuse to dine out and sample some of the city’s best cuisine. There’s still time to catch a performance by some of the world’s best cowboys at the Mesquite Championship Rodeo.

Key Events: DFW Restaurant Week starts the first full week of August

Weather: Daily average highs in the high 90s°F and lows in the high 70s°F, with four days of rain on average.

September

It should be no surprise that Dallas hosts one of the biggest, longest state fairs in the country. The fair is full of Lone Star culture, from ranching and livestock events. The museums of Fair Park throw their doors open to educate fairgoers on Hispanic and Black culture in Texas.

Key Events: Texas State Fair from late September to late October

Weather: Daily average highs in the low 90s°F and lows in the low 70s°F, with four days of rain on average

October

The Dallas Cowboys aren’t the only team in this football-loving town that get a standing ovation. Every October since 1900 the Cotton Bowl inside Fair Park fills up with fans of the Sooners of the University of Oklahoma in Norman and the Longhorns of the University of Texas at Austin. They go toe-to-toe for a gold ten-gallon hat, natch, and the rivalry runs deep. If sports isn’t your thing, the Stevie Ray Vaughn concert celebrates one of Dallas’ best-beloved sons, the legendary blues musician who grew up in the Oak Cliff neighborhood. He’s honored every year with a memorial concert and other festivities.

Key Events: The Red River Showdown the second Saturday of October, 

Weather: Daily average high in the low 80s°F and lows in high 50s°F, with six days of rail on average 

November

November is the start of the low season in Dallas, which means some of the smallest tourist numbers of the year. Take advantage of this month to score a great deal on hotels or to visit popular tourist attractions that can get crowded in the summer months. Some holiday festivities start this month, including the city-wide celebration, Big D Holiday, which begins in early November each year.

Key Events: Big D Holiday begins in early to mid-November

Weather: Daily average highs in the high 60s°F and lows in the high 40s°F, with five days of rain on average

December

December is a great month to take to the streets for epic runs and holiday fun, making the low season lively as the year winds down. Whether you want to take in some holiday festivities or put your fitness to the test with a winter marathon, you’ll find it all in Dallas this month.

Key Events: Dallas Holiday Parade on the first Saturday of December, BMW Dallas Marathon on the second Sunday of December

Weather: Daily average highs in the low 60s°F and lows in the low 40s°F, with five days of rain on average

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Home to tropical beaches, pre-Columbian ruins and some of the world’s most celebrated cooking, Mexico has long captivated visitors. Its hiking trails, however, remain little known, which is great news for those eager to experience the nation’s diverse scenery without the crowds.

Mexico’s trails can take you through astonishing landscapes, from newly formed lava fields to jaw-dropping canyons, as well as cloud forests teeming with wildlife.

Experienced mountaineers can plan a trip around the country’s famous mountains, like the challenging ascent up 18,491ft (5636m) Pico de Orizaba, Mexico’s highest peak.

Hiking here isn’t just about the panoramic backdrops, though. You can also head off on a trek through local communities, with indigenous guides shedding insight on the rich cultures that date back centuries.

Here are our picks for the top hikes in Mexico.

1. Pico del Águila

Best hike for views

2.8 miles (4.5km) roundtrip, 3 hours, difficult

Less than 25 miles (40km) south of Mexico City, the Parque Nacional Cumbres del Ajusco immerses you in a world of forested slopes and rocky peaks that seem a world removed from the bustling capital.

The challenging but rewarding climb to the top of Pico del Águila will take you through forests of oaks, firs and pines up to alpine terrain where the views over the rolling valleys and the distant metropolis grow more dramatic with every step.

Although the hike is relatively short, the going is steep as you ascend more than 2200ft (671m) en route to the lofty summit, which sits at 12,795ft (3900m) above sea level.

Along the way, keep an eye out for the teporingo, aka the volcano rabbit, a rare lagomorph and one of the smallest rabbit species on earth (only the pygmy rabbit is smaller).

Planning tip: The trail begins near El Abrevadero restaurant, a great place to treat yourself to a meal after completing the hike.

2. Volcán Paricutín

Best hike for volcano encounters

12 miles (19km) roundtrip, 5 to 7 hours, moderate

Most of earth’s geologic wonders can be measured in eons, but Volcán Paricutín has been around for barely 80 years. Back in 1943, a farmer was plowing his fields in the southwestern state of Michoacán when rumbling started, and steam, ash and lava spurted from the ground.

Seemingly out of nowhere, Paricutín volcano rose out of the bowels of the earth, growing over the next decade to around 1350ft (411m) above the surrounding valley.

Today, the large black cone is mostly dormant, which you can see firsthand on a walk from the village of Angahuan.

From there you can hire a guide from the Purépecha community and set out across lava fields, trekking past the ruins of the Church of San Juan Parangaricutiro with its battered belfry towering above blackened volcanic rock.

Later, you’ll scramble up loose rock and gravel to the summit of the youthful volcano, spying a few steam vents that are the only signs of its activity.

3. Bacajipare Trail

Best hike for indigenous culture

2.5 miles (4km) roundtrip, 3 hours, moderate

The Copper Canyon in the north of Mexico isn’t one great expanse, but rather a system of six separate canyons that are larger and deeper in places than the Grand Canyon.

The rugged mountainous terrain is also home to the Rarámuri (Taramuri), an indigenous group known for their long-distance running traditions.

You can experience jaw-dropping panoramas of the Sierra Madre while also learning about Rarámuri culture on a guided hike along the Bacajipare Trail. Led by Rarámuri members, this memorable walk takes you along an ancient path past remote homesteads and down to the small Bacajipare community.

This is just one of several hikes you can undertake that is led by Experiencias Rarámuri, a sustainable community tourism project that’s been around since 2015.

Planning tip: Contact the guides in advance or find them at the lower cable car station inside the Parque de Aventura Barrancas del Cobre. Before or after a hike, be sure to ride the high-flying zip lines over the canyon – another spectacular way to experience this region.

4. Pueblos Mancomunados

Best hike for adventure

6-62 miles (10km to 100km) roundtrip, 4 hours to 4 days, moderate

Near the center of Oaxaca state, eight remote villages are linked by some 62 miles (100km) of high-country trails in one of Mexico’s best ecotourism projects.

You can plan a wide range of hikes here, from half-day excursions to multi-day treks, overnighting in Zapotec villages along the way.

Highlights include walking through misty cloud forests, crossing suspension bridges over ravines and scampering up rocky cliffs to views of snow-capped Pico Orizaba.

Planning tip: The community-run Expediciones Sierra Norte based in Oaxaca City can help with planning and logistics. Among other things, they can set you up with English-speaking guides, additional activities like horse and bike rentals and reserve your lodging in advance.

5. Pueblo Fantasma

Best desert hike

3 miles (5km) round trip, 2 hours, moderate

The mines of San Luís Potosí showered riches on boom towns like Real de Catorce. When the price of silver went bust in the early 20th century, cobblestone centers turned into pueblos fantasmas (ghost towns) and the population pulled up stakes and moved elsewhere.

In recent years, boutique hotels and restaurants have breathed new life into Real de Catorce, though it still retains ghostly elements of its once-grand past.

With its population hovering around 1000, the small city makes a great base for hikes to abandoned sites, including a hilltop ghost town hidden in the desert landscape.

Along the way, you’ll ascend more than 850ft (259m) and enjoy sweeping views back toward Real de Catorce and the surrounding mountains stretching off toward the horizon.

Once inside the pueblo fantasma, you can explore eerie 200-year-old houses and peek inside open mine shafts (watch your step!).

6. Cerro Don Lauro

Best spiritual hike

2.7 miles (4.3km) round trip, 2 hours, easy

Surrounded by dozens of traditional Tsotzil and Tzeltal villages, San Cristóbal de las Casas in Chiapas is at the heart of one of the most deeply rooted indigenous areas in Mexico.

No matter where you walk, you’ll encounter residents with obvious pride in their Mayan ancestry. The forests and mountains here are considered sacred – none perhaps more so than the Cerro Don Lauro, a craggy, pine-covered mountain looming above San Cristóbal.

An uphill hike takes you through pine and oak forest, past trickling streams and small community farms. As you near the top, you’ll pass an oversized drum, an altar and an area for temascal (sweat lodge) ceremonies.

This is where Chiapaneco shaman Don Lauro, for whom the peak is named, leads workshops and ceremonies in honor of the mountain. You can learn more about him in the film El Hombre de la Montaña (2018). 

At the summit, you’ll enjoy a mesmerizing expanse of San Cristóbal, fringed by lush peaks rising above the valley floor.

 A country packed with misty peaks, hidden ancient temples, otherworldly karst outcrops and dense jungle teeming with wildlife, Thailand offers a veritable feast for hikers.

After you’ve laced up your boots (or fastened your sandals), you can conquer mountains, circumnavigate stunning sandy islands and make your way to Thailand’s biggest waterfall. What’s more, thanks to Thailand’s superb transport system, it’s easy to reach most hiking trails independently – though there are plenty of excellent trekking guides available, too.

So grab a heavy-duty insect repellent, pack some sunscreen and buy some leech socks: we’re about to set off. These are the best hikes in Thailand.

1. Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail

Best hike in entire country

2.7km (1.6 miles), 2–3 hours, easy

The short Kew Mae Pan Nature Trail offers hikers a chance to see one of the most beautiful panoramic views in all of Thailand. Within the Doi Inthanon National Park near Chiang Mai, the 2200m-high (7218ft-high) Kew Mae Pan mountain stands only a few hundred meters south of Doi Inthanon, Thailand’s highest peak at 2565m (8415ft).

The trek itself is a short circular trail with boardwalks, which begins inside a forest of mossy trees and ferns that bursts with red rhododendrons between January and March. After passing the Mae Pan waterfall, the thicket opens to a bright-green grassland and leads hikers to the Kew Mae Pan Viewpoint (also called Station 9), which dominates the whole reserve and is known for its breathtaking sunrise views.

Planning tip: Guides are compulsory here, so be prepared to pay 200B (US$5.87) per group.

2. Um Phang

Best multiday hike

Distances and times vary, moderate to hard

Um Phang and Tak offer spectacular hiking but with a fraction of the visitors of popular Chiang Mai and Mae Hong Son provinces. All treks start in and around the Um Phang Wildlife Sanctuary and use the Mae Klong River as an artery for deeper jungle exploration.

The region is well suited to multiday hikes. Travelers could spend a week trawling its hills, bunking down at Karen villages and hiking south along the border with Myanmar to the Three Pagodas Pass at Sangkhlaburi, an area that served as the main supply line for the construction of the Japanese Thailand–Burma railway in WWII.

Yet most come here to see Thailand’s largest waterfall, Nam Tok Thilawsu. From the wildlife sanctuary, it’s a two-hour hike to the striking cascade through dense palms, giant bamboo and strangler figs – an exertion that’s rewarded by a dip in the waterfall’s pools.

Planning tip: Advanced hikers and peak-busters can attempt the grueling 20km (12.5-mile) slog to Mt Kagerla, the fourth-highest peak in Thailand. However, at 1428m (4685ft), it’s not for the faint of heart (or muscle).

3. Phanom Rung

Best hike within an archeological site

1km (0.6 miles), half a day, easy

While not quite a traditional hike, few places are more inspiring than the Phanom Rung complex near Buriram. Standing on the rim of a dormant volcano, some 200m (656ft) above the rice fields of Isan in the northeast, this 10th-century Khmer temple is built from pink sandstone.

Complementing the striking archaeological site itself, the climb to Phanom Rung follows an ancient walkway flanked with the heads of Naga (serpent guardians). From the parking area, the trail morphs into a stairway to the plateau, where the main temple and its 15 doorways await.

4. Tiger Cave Temple

Best hike to a temple

1km (0.6 miles), half a day, moderate

It’s a short, steep climb up to the 278m-high (912ft-high) limestone outcrop that overlooks Krabi Town – and hikers who successfully tackle the 1260 stairs to the summit are rewarded with access to Wat Tham Suea (Tiger Cave Temple), plus stellar views. The temple is named for the tigers who locals once believed dwelled in the surrounding caves; while you won’t find any prowling cats today, you will encounter golden stupas and a large seated Buddha silently keeping watch over the emerald forest and sprawling blue sea below.

Carry plenty of water for the rigorous ascent and humid air. A hiking pole can be useful, too – both to haul yourself up and to keep the resident monkeys at a distance.

Planning tip: Since this is an active temple, remember to wear culturally appropriate clothing such as trousers or long skirts and tops that cover your shoulders.

5. Koh Jum

Best island hike

Distances vary, 4–6 hours, easy to moderate

Motorcycles are the only vehicles allowed on the low-key island of Koh Jum, just off of Krabi. Fortunately, the most rewarding way to explore this paradisiacal atoll is on foot. The western coast has a flat trail that flits between coves and quiet beaches for 6km (3¾ miles), but for views as far as Ko Phi-Phi (on clear days), tackle the steep climb up Khao Koh Pu hill.

There are two trailheads that lead to the 400m-high (1312ft-high) summit. The most direct route starts at the 2.9km sign on the circular road surrounding the hill. Navigating the empty rubber estates can be tricky, but locals will take guests up for about 1000B (US$29.25).

6. Khao Sok National Park

Best jungle trek

Distances vary, 2–3 hours, moderate

Skirting the southern side of Cheow Lan lake, the dense forest and towering limestone karsts of Khao Sok make this jungle trek one of the best in southern Thailand. And with 48 mammal species roaming the forests, there are plenty of excellent wildlife spotting opportunities, too. Expect gibbons, macaques and barking deer for the most part; more-elusive species such as sun bears, clouded leopards and tigers have been known to make appearances as well.

Several trails, each around 12km (7½ miles) long, start from Khao Sok village on the southern edge of the park, before cutting through dense forest and winding past tumbling waterfalls until reaching the southern shore of the lake. Post-hike, Cheow Lan’s floating homestays, surrounded by fang-like karsts that rise from the water, are a popular spot for taking in the lake and the northern side of the reserve.

Planning tip: In October and December, the world’s largest (and smelliest) parasitic flower, the Rafflesia kerrii, blooms in the jungle, which can be quite a sight (and scent).

7. Phu Kradueng National Park

Best hike to a peak

9.5km (5.9 miles), 4–6 hours, moderate to hard

Phu Kradueng (Bell Mountain) is the main peak in the namesake national park in Loei Province in northeast Isan. The climb isn’t that taxing to begin with – but things get tougher as hikers approach the plateau-like summit. A campsite at the top offers hikers the chance to spend the night and rent bicycles for those wanting to explore the area at their own pace.

Locals typically complete the climb in a day. Yet staying over at the top affords hikers the chance to see a stunning sunset over the Mak Dook cliffs; sunrise over the Nok Aen cliffs is equally compelling.

Planning tip: The descent is hard on the knees; borrow one of the walking sticks on offer.

8. Khao Yai National Park

Best hike in a national park

Distances vary, 2–3 hours, easy

Established as Thailand’s first national park in 1962, Khao Yai is the best place for a jungle trek near Bangkok. It boasts more than 50km (31 miles) of hiking trails that teem with macaques, gibbons, civets, barking deer and endemic bird species such as the great hornbill.

A couple of short loop trails begin near the park’s headquarters. Yet since wild elephants are often spotted in the reserve, guides are required for venturing any deeper into the rainforest. Avoid visiting on weekends and public holidays as cars often fill the roads to the main sights, including the 150m-high (492ft-high) Haew Narok waterfall and Haew Suwat cascade, whose 25m-high (82ft-high) drop dazzled millions in Danny Boyle’s cult film The Beach (2000).

9. Bangkok Phra Pradaeng Loop

Best hike near Bangkok

12km (7.5 miles), 3 hours, easy

An essential green space in Bangkok, this walking trail and bicycle path starts at the Bang Krachao Pier (also known as Bang Kachao) and has been protected by long-standing laws prohibiting the construction of tall buildings in the area. Hiking out here is a rare opportunity to see how the ever-growing Thai capital looked decades ago.

Most of the route follows suspended pathways built above a mangrove swamp, past a number of homes built on stilts. Try to hike on a Sunday, when the Bang Nam Phueng market sells delicious street food and all sorts of goods, from pearl earrings to coconut pancakes.

Sliding into a bathtub after a long day is one of life’s little luxuries – but there’s nothing quite like the restorative high from a dip in a natural thermal pool.

From Iceland’s renowned Blue Lagoon to ancient sulfur streams in the Pyrenees, here’s a rundown of Europe’s best hot springs and thermal pools if you’re looking for a proper soak this winter (or year-round if you like).

1. Blue Lagoon, Iceland

The vibe: See it to believe it

No list would be complete without it perhaps Europe’s most famous geothermal pool. Emerging from rugged lava fields 30 minutes from Reykjavík, this vivid turquoise pool could easily be mistaken an otherworldly Icelandic natural landscape – but it’s actually a man-made complex fed by mineral-rich water recycled by the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant. Tubs of white, silica-rich geothermal mud are available for guests to apply their own face masks.

2. Thermae Bath Spa, Bath, England

The vibe: Romantic bathing in historic Bath

The healing waters of Britain’s only thermal spring have been enjoyed by everyone from the Celts to the Saxons since their discovery by legendary British Prince Bladud around 863 BCE. Tapping the spring that feeds the city’s historic Roman Baths museum, Thermae Bath Spa boasts herbal steam rooms and four thermal baths including an open-air rooftop pool with romantic views of Bath Abbey.

3. Hévíz Lake, Hévíz, Hungary

The vibe: Get back to nature

Dotted with water lilies and surrounded by manicured parks, pretty Hévíz boasts the world’s largest biologically active, naturally medicinal lake. Its on-site spa complex is convenient for wintertime visits, and since the lake’s natural water temperature never dips below 24°C (75°F) – getting up to 38°C (100°F) during summer – you can bathe outdoors year-round.

4. Bains de Dorres, Pyrenees, France

The vibe: Views for days

Offering a relaxing alternative to France’s more-serious medicinal bathhouses, this small sulfurous thermal spring, sitting pretty at 1450m (4757ft) in altitude, allows guests to soak at 37–40°C (99–104°F) with gorgeous views of the rolling valleys below. Just a stone’s throw from the Spanish border, Bains de Dorres dates back to Roman times.

5. Széchenyi Baths, Budapest, Hungary

The vibe: Room for everyone

Budapest is known as the City of Spas, with many of its 16th- and 17th-century Turkish baths still in use today. With a whopping 18 different pools and a further 10 saunas and steam chambers, the grand, neo-baroque Széchenyi Baths complex in Budapest’s City Park is one of the capital’s top attractions.

6. 7132 Therme Vals, Switzerland

The vibe: Alpine architectural chic

This minimalist spa complex at 7132 Therme Vals is so trendy that devotees think nothing of the 200km (124-mile) journey from Zürich to bathe in its hydrotherapy pools. Night bathing is offered to guests who bed down at Therme Val’s adjoining hotel, which has been remodeled by the spa’s award-winning Swiss architect, Peter Zumthor.

7. Palia Kameni, Santorini, Greece

The vibe: Nature’s mud wrap

The copper-hued springs on this volcanic island in the Santorini caldera are known for their therapeutic sulphuric mud. “Old Burnt” in Greek, Palia Kameni is accessed by boat from Santorini, with visitors required to swim from a moored vessel to reach the main seaside spring. Avoid peak tourist season for the most authentic bathing session.

8. Hammam Al Ándalus, Granada, Spain

The vibe: Ancient Arabic opulence

Thought to be the first traditional hammam reopened in Europe after Spain’s Christian rulers closed Andalucía’s Moorish bathhouses in the 16th century, the richly decorated Hammam Al Ándalus offers a truly opulent thermal bathing experience.

9. Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme, Wiesbaden, Germany

The vibe: Lavish country escape

Having celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2013, the art nouveau Kaiser-Friedrich-Therme complex in Wiesbaden brims with old-world charm. Its aquatic healing heritage stretches back further still, with the spa built on the site of an old Roman sauna. Alongside its restorative thermal pools, the spa features a Russian steam bath and classic Finnish sauna, to boot.

10. Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad), Czech Republic

The vibe: Soothing, from the inside out

Discovered by Roman Emperor Charles IV, who founded this west Bohemia spa town in the 14th century, Karlovy Vary’s mineral waters are thought to have external and internal healing properties. Many hotels, such as the Grandhotel Pupp (reportedly the inspiration for Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel), operate traditional bathing spas, but it’s possible to drink from the springs at several of the town’s historic colonnade complexes.

11. Laugarvatn Fontana, Iceland

The vibe: Blissful countryside seclusion

Located 77km (48 miles) from Reykjavík, the bathing pools at Laugarvatn Fontana open onto the picturesque geothermal Lake Laugarvatn, the sands of which are thought to soothe arthritic joints. Built directly over a bubbling spring, the complex’s outdoor mineral pools are particularly alluring, especially when the aurora borealis streaks across the night sky overhead.

12. Pantelleria, Italy

The vibe: One for the fashion set

This tiny volcanic island in the Strait of Sicily (and not far from Tunisia) houses a series of natural, non-commercial pools. Among the most popular is the harbor at Gadir, where locals (notably Giorgio Armani, who owns a holiday home here) head to bathe in the restorative waters, said to soothe rheumatism and arthritis.

13. Pamukkale, Denizli Province, Turkey

The vibe: The ultimate natural phenomenon

Translating to “cotton castle” in Turkish, Pamukkale is a stunning natural pool complex that has been used for centuries to ease a range of physical maladies. Created by the build-up of carbonate minerals, the terraced hot springs fringe the ruins of the ancient Greco-Roman and Byzantine city of Hierapolis.

14. Terme di Saturnia, Tuscany, Italy

The vibe: The stuff of Tuscan dreams

A truly idyllic Tuscan escape, Terme di Saturnia is one of Italy’s premier thermal spa resorts. Replenished every four hours by a volcanic spring, Terme’s main pool hovers at a balmy 37.5°C (99.5°F). Also available to non-guests, the resort offers special thermal mud treatments alongside a full med-spa menu.

15. Château des Thermes, Chaudfontaine, Belgium

The vibe: One-stop indulgence

Using Belgium’s hottest thermal spring, Château des Thermes near Liège in the Vesdre Valley houses an outdoor thermal pool, two Turkish baths, a caldarium and a salt cabin, the last used to soothe a range of skin conditions. Part of a hotel, this swish day spa also boasts an excellent French restaurant.

16. Caldea, Andorra

The vibe: For the après-ski crowd

With over 6000 sq m (64,500 sq ft) of pools, the Andorran capital’s cavernous Caldea spa, fed from a sulfur-rich spring, is the largest thermal spa complex in southern Europe. It’s a good choice for those who enjoy socializing while stewing, with the spa hosting popular cocktail nights. Those seeking a more intimate experience should try one of the city’s boutique thermal spa hotels, such as the Roc Blanc – perfect for easing post-ski aches (or sweating out hangovers).

17. Rogner Bad Blumau, Styria, Austria

The vibe: As if Middle Earth had a day spa

An artistic, aquatic Babylon, this ultra-quirky southeast Austrian spa bears the mark of eccentric Austrian architect Friedensreich Hundertwasser. Fed by two curative springs, Rogner Bad Blumau boasts a Dead Sea salt grotto alongside its pools, saunas and treatment rooms. Replete with rooftop meadows, its attached hotel resembles a futuristic Hobbiton.

18. Klevevška Toplica, Klevevž, Slovenia

The vibe: A dip in the Slovenian wilds

With the water temperature bubbling just below the 20°C (68°F) mark, the tiny outdoor spring in the Slovenian village of Klevevž attracts hardier types than the country’s glitzy spas. But bathers who make the pilgrimage here will be rewarded with a soak in a wonderfully serene forest setting, with medieval Klevevž Castle visible in the distance. For something a little more refined, Dolenjske Toplice, one of Slovenia’s oldest and prettiest spa towns, is a short drive away.

19. Aqua Dome, Tyrol, Austria

The vibe: Futuristic-style relaxation

Discovered in the 16th century, Längenfeld’s geothermal spring all but dried up in the 1960s. Redrilled in 1997, it now feeds this Tyrol town’s veritable alpine playground, which features three “levitating” outdoor pools. For romantics, there’s moonlight bathing at the Aqua Dome on Fridays.

20. Piestany, Slovakia

The vibe: Grand spa hotels a go-go

It’s all about the mud at Piestany, Slovakia’s largest spa town. Attached to various spa hotels, most of the thermal pools in this western Slovakian village, 86km (52 miles) from Bratislava, are contained in the lush surroundings of a wooded park known as “spa island.”