Category Adventure Travel

The world is full of natural wonders, but few things are as mesmerizing as swimming at night in a sea glowing with bioluminescence, or spying on flickering fireflies by a woodland stream, or entering a cavern illuminated by glowworms.

Bioluminescence is created when living organisms such as marine animals, insects plants and fungi produce and emit light through chemical processes. Mother Nature adds this touch of whimsy to the environment in many different forms – you’ll discover the wonder of bioluminescence all around the world if you know where to look.

In fact, you could be closer to one of these natural light shows than you realize. Here are our favorite places to go for the glow.

1. San Juan Islands, Washington, USA

North of Seattle in Washington State, the San Juan Islands are the setting for one of America’s most spectacular natural light shows. The nutrient-rich waters of Garrison and Westcott Bays provide an ideal environment for bioluminescent microorganisms, creating a natural attraction that lures in travelers as the sun sets.

It’s possible to arrange boat and kayak tours to view the bioluminescence through various operators on the islands. Based at Friday Harbor, San Juan Island Outfitters offers kayak tours timed to coincide with the new moon for peak visibility. Stay a few days – there’s plenty more to see on these interesting islands.

Post-glow activities: After kayaking over glowing seas, grab a pint at the San Juan Brewing Company in Friday Harbor. The following day, check out the wildlife and the lighthouse in nearby Lime Kiln Point State Park.

2. Koh Rong, Cambodia

When people think of Cambodia, Angkor Wat is what immediately springs to mind, but in the southern part of the country near Sihanoukville, you’ll discover another epic experience – snorkeling in sparkling bioluminescent waters off the island of Koh Rong.

This is one of Cambodia’s most memorable experiences. To get the best view of the marine light show, book a boat tour and swirl your hand through the water to see the glowing plankton at their brightest. November to March is the best time to visit Koh Rong, with mostly dry days and nights.

Post-glow activities: Stay at Long Set Resort, which gives guests a shoreline view of the twinkling colors lighting up the sea. In the morning, mountain bike through the rainforest inland from the beach or take a scuba dive to view the marine wildlife below the surface.

3. Manialtepec Lagoon, Mexico

Heading over to Mexico, the Manialtepec Lagoon near Oaxaca is famed for its bioluminescent light show. While you can observe the phenomenon from a boat, diving in is positively encouraged; in ancient times, locals believed in the youth-restoring magic of bathing in the phosphorescent lagoon. Just be sure to time your nighttime dip with the new moon, as strong light can make it challenging to see the bioluminescence. Combine a visit with days on the lovely beaches in nearby Puerto Escondido.

Post-glow activities: The nearest place to stay is Puerto Escondido and lagoon tours are offered most nights; it takes less than 30 minutes to reach the lagoon. By day, bird-watching on Manialtepec Lagoon is a must; parrots, pelicans, falcons, ospreys, herons, kingfishers and hawks all call the area home.

4. Waitomo Caves, New Zealand

One of the most iconic examples of bioluminescence, the otherworldly light emitted by the glowworms of New Zealand’s Waitomo Caves would make even the most experienced naturalists stop in their tracks. In a striking natural display, the larvae of this species of gnat dangle from the stalactites reaching down from the cave roof, blanketing the surface in a bright blue glow.

Visitors can book tours of the main Glowworm Cave, at the nearby visitor center. Combine a visit to this natural wonder with a Māori cultural experience at Rotorua to get under the skin of New Zealand’s North Island.

Post-glow activities: Once you get your fill of the glittery critters, head over to the Ruakuri Caves and Bush Scenic Reserve and walk the trail loop, taking in views of the rocky gorge and limestone formations.

5. Vieques, Puerto Rico

The Caribbean island of Puerto Rico is home to three bioluminescent bays, the most spectacular of which is Mosquito Bay on Vieques, a small island off the east coast. Mosquito Bay has long held the title of the brightest bioluminescent spot in the world, and for good reason – the waters are home to millions of single-celled organisms known as dinoflagellates, which glow bright blue when disturbed, creating a mind-blowing spectacle for those who venture out on the water. 

If you get the chance, explore by kayak. Watch fish jet out from under your boat like shooting stars, or pretend you are in warp drive as you glide across the surface on a glass-bottomed kayak. Note that the phenomenon is notoriously difficult to capture on camera, so focus on enjoying the magical moment. For the best view, book your trip on a new moon between December and April – the best time to visit for bioluminescence.

Post-glow activities: After soaking up the night-time magic of the bay, take advantage of the Caribbean sun. Head to the mile-long golden arc of sand at Sun Bay to take in some vitamin D and admire the turquoise sea.

6. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

You can spot fireflies in humid regions all over the world, but the Great Smoky Mountains are home to 19 different species of these light-emitting beetles, including the aptly named synchronous firefly. As you might expect, these blinking bugs have a little trick up their sleeves ­– for a two-week period from late May to mid-June, they flick on and off in unison.

Observing the spectacle is one of the top things to do in the Smoky Mountains and evening access to this region of the park during the firefly season is a hot ticket; the park runs a lottery for visitors to avoid overcrowding.

Post-glow activities: Stick around the national park for an extra day and head south on the winding mountain roads to nearby Clingman’s Dome, the highest point in the Smoky Mountains at 6643ft (2024m). On a clear day, the peak offers views that stretch for nearly 100 miles.

7. Luminous Lagoon, Jamaica

This lagoon, which stretches along a marshy section of the north coast of Jamaica near Falmouth, has a fascinating history. During the 18th century, this sheltered body of water was a vital conduit for the trade in sugar and rum between England and Jamaica, but today, the lagoon offers a chance to observe one of the most spectacular sights in the Caribbean – a tropical light show courtesy of the microscopic dinoflagellates that glow in these warm, shallow waters.

Tours of the lagoon can easily be booked in Falmouth or through hotels in Montego Bay, a 30-minute drive away. Many tours encourage visitors to swim in the lagoon for the best effect, as these microscopic organisms emit the strongest glow when disturbed. It’s a great experience for kids who feel brave enough to swim after dark.

Post-glow activities: After a lagoon cruise, devour some tasty traditional Jamaican cuisine at the Glistening Waters Restaurant, located right in the marina.

8. Hachijō-jima, Japan

Animals aren’t the only ones to shine – the bioluminescent mushrooms on the Japanese island of Hachijō-jima will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the pages of Alice in Wonderland. During the rainy season (which lasts from May to September), some seven different species light up the island’s forest floor.

Get to the island by plane or ferry from Tokyo, then hit the hiking trails or head to the botanical gardens to get a closer look at the fluorescent fungi. It’s definitely one of the more unusual things to do in Japan.

Post-glow activities: When you’ve finished admiring the glowing fungi, Hachijō-jima is also home to two dormant volcanoes, photogenic beaches, and the top-notch Urami-ga-taki Onsen, a decadent spot with free entry that overlooks a pretty waterfall.

9. Dismals Canyon, Alabama

Tucked away in a rural corner of Northern Alabama, you’ll find Dismals Canyon, a National Natural Landmark that protects the oldest area of primeval forest (woodland that has existed without any significant event, such as a fire or storm, affecting its growth) found east of the Mississippi River. The canyon is a twisting ravine full of majestic flora and a wide array of wildlife, including the quirkily named Dismalites – the bioluminescent larvae of the fly Orfelia fultoni.

These tiny critters line the moss-covered rocks of the canyon, and when night falls, they glitter blue in the darkness. The best time to catch the Dismalite show is May through September, and you can book a guided tour with the Dismals Canyon Conservatory.

Post-glow activities: Spend the evening at one of the canyon’s cabins, and drive about an hour east the next morning to the Sipsey Wilderness, a section of the Bankhead National Forest that offers views of waterfalls, walking trails, horseback trekking routes and canoeing on the Sipsey Fork. Motorized vehicles are not allowed within the wilderness boundaries, so dive in and enjoy nature at its purest.

Lonely Planet has been traveling the world for 50 years and counting.

And in an era of chatbots and AI-generated images, we continue to rely on real people and experts who taste, smell and see the world – then report the best of it back to us. To create our books and website, we work with writers and photographers from Vietnam to Vanuatu to Victoria, BC, to Victoria Falls – and beyond.

We also work with numerous of on-the-ground photographers – either local professionals who are excited to share a glimpse of their home, or photographers on vacation or on assignment. 

Our ultimate goal is to inform and inspire. For you never know when the light is going to hit something just right, in such a way that it will make anyone seeing shot say, “I’ve got to see that in person.” Here are some of the favorite photographs shot for us this year, picked by photo director Pia Peterson Haggarty and other members of our staff.

Wild Atlantic Way, Ireland

Pia Peterson Haggarty, Photo Director 

Robert Ormerod’s photographs of the Wild Atlantic Way in Ireland made me book a ticket – quite literally. After seeing his work, we took our first vacation as a family of three to Ireland and Northern Ireland later in the year. I didn’t make it to see the incredible Connemara ponies or the sheepherding demonstration that he was able to photograph for us, but I did see plenty of sheep – and had to jump out of the car multiple times for the views. 

Mirandaola Ironworks, Basque Country, Spain

Pia Peterson Haggarty, Photo Director 

At Lonely Planet, we see a lot of travel photography – which means a lot of beaches, a lot of greenery and a lot of viewpoints. Not that there’s anything wrong that with that…but you do tend to see the same or similar photos over and over again. This photograph by Blake Horn of the Mirandaola Ironworks in Spain’s Basque Country was fascinating because it’s something that you don’t see every day, scrolling. It’s a visit that you have to seek out. Mirandaola is one of the oldest foundries in the Basque Country, and the workers still wear outfits from the 16th century. They gave our video team a look at how metal was made into swords using techniques from over 500 years ago.

The Olympic Games, Paris, France

Pia Peterson Haggarty, Photo Director 

Before I was glued to my television all summer (Simone! Sha’Carri! pommel-horse guy!), Kate Devie photographed Paris for us, and we got a glimpse of the setup for the Paris Olympics. I am admittedly always a sucker for the Olympics – but these Paris Games felt especially magical and beautiful as the venues intertwined with the most famous landmarks. These photos were such a special preview of the festivities to come.

Picos de Europa National Park, Spain

Pia Peterson Haggarty, Photo Director 

Coke Bartrina went on an incredible road trip across Northern Spain and photographed it for Lonely Planet this past spring. He shot so many incredibly beautiful locations, from the Basque Country to Santiago de Compostela on the west coast – and just about everything in between. For some reason, this quiet moment (with a sandwich) while in Picos de Europa National Park is one I keep coming back to when I think about planning my own Spain trip. I can taste the salt in this photo – and I love it.

Cascatas de Fecha de Barjas, Portugal 

Chamidae Ford, Associate Writer

I tend to feel a pull toward destinations where I can swim. I find nothing better than jumping into a new body of water – and this image by Kerry Murray is forever stuck in my mind. Instantly, I had to know where it was (Gerês, Portugal) and how on earth I could experience it for myself as soon as possible (road trip). I love how this single image says so much. You see people laughing and lounging on the rocks. You know that the water is cool and the sun is hot. It is obvious that this swimming hole is an escape from the city and will take effort to find for yourself. To me, this image looks like the perfect summer afternoon – and one I would like to recreate. 

Osaka, Japan

 Ann Douglas Lott, Editor 

I got to watch newly commissioned images for our annual Best in Travel campaign flood into Lonely Planet’s collection. When Rintaro Kanemoto’s vibrant photos of Osaka first arrived, I felt like I’d jumped into a vintage postcard. I love everything about this photo: the symmetry, the contrast between light and dark, cool and warm. I think Wes Anderson would like it, too.

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Sasha Brady, Editor

I chose this photo because it stopped me in my tracks (pun intended!): a streetcar, apparently away from the city, being directed by a conductor in a wonderfully traditional uniform. I was convinced it had been mislabeled. Surely this wasn’t Edmonton? In 2024? But it was – and it made me curious about the city and its quirks, and what else it might be keeping to itself that I must check out. I adore any image that makes me approach a destination with a fresh perspective.

Puducherry, India

Akanksha Singh, Destination Editor for Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent

Gabriela Bhaskar photographed the coastal town of Puducherry (Pondicherry) for Best in Travel, and captured its essence remarkably well. This photo is an unabashedly colorful slice of life. Though mildly chaotic for lovers of beige and gray, this scene opens up without feeling intrusive: you can feel the buzz, hear the conversations (or arguments!) and smell the flowers. Plus, it’s so layered – you see much more upon closer inspection.

Shikoku, Japan

Ethan Radtke, Senior Vice President

This photograph was taken this fall in Japan, at Ruafu Indigo Workshop in Tokushima in Shikoku. The women who work here teach and produce traditional shibori, an indigo tie-dye technique that has been around for centuries. The blue-stained hands in this picture really drew me in. There’s a dedication to an art form and connection that comes through that I like a lot. 

Picture yourself waking up on a sandy beach beside a turquoise underground lake, illuminated by sunlight pouring in through a giant skylight. Imagine finding yourself inside a natural cathedral made of sinuous stone, shaped by millions of years of erosion. Visualize yourself fording a subterranean river, and being stopped in your tracks by the sight of mist and clouds forming on the inside of the cave so vast that the brain struggles to comprehend its exact dimensions.

Every year, a few lucky visitors to Vietnam get to enjoy this very experience. The world’s largest cave, Hang Son Doong (Mountain River Cave) was discovered in the dense forests of Vietnam’s Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in 1990 by a local man, Ho Khanh, as he was seeking shelter from a storm. The cave then lay forgotten until Khanh led British caver Howard Limbert and his team there in 2009 to map Hang Son Doong for the first time.

Hang Son Doong is vast. It’s so big that you can fit any of the world’s other largest caves comfortably inside it, as well as several 40-story skyscrapers. The cavern reaches 503m (1650ft) in height and 175m (574ft) in width and the cave system is 9.4km (5.8 miles) long, winding beneath karst mountains. Indeed, the cave is even larger than previously thought – in 2019, British divers explored Hang Son Doong’s underground waterways and discovered a tunnel linking the cave to Hang Thung, another huge cavern.

How can I visit Hang Son Doong?

The world’s biggest cavern can only be visited on pricey organized caving tours, and there are strict limits on the number of visitors admitted every year. But if you can’t stretch to the cost or time commitment of a Hang Son Doong expedition, surrounding Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park offers plenty of other cave-based adventures.

Covering 1233 sq km (476 sq miles), this UNESCO World Heritage Site bristles with some of the oldest karst mountains in Asia, riddled with extraordinary cave systems, which are the park’s top draws. Above-ground attractions include excellent jungle trekking, excursions into the picturesque countryside and sites linked to the American War – it’s certainly one of the highlights of a trip to Vietnam.

How do I book a Hang Son Doong expedition?

Howard Limbert helped to establish the adventure tour agency Oxalis in 2011, and in 2014 the company launched multi-day exploration tours of Hang Son Doong. Groups set up camp in the spectacular Hang En cave en route, taking a swim in its subterranean lake before descending into Hang Son Doong using safety harnesses.

You’ll spend two days exploring giant passages with vast rock formations, bathing in underground pools and streams, gazing upon areas of primeval forest growing inside the cave, and sleeping in scenic campsites beneath two dolines (giant sinkholes) that fill the cave with effervescent light. Wildlife sightings are common, from monkeys, flying foxes, snakes, bats and birds to endemic species of fish, shrimp and creepy crawlies that evolved to exist in complete darkness.

Access to the cave is limited to 1000 visitors per year, so demand for places is high. Each group of ten is led by at least one of the British cavers who took part in the original Hang Son Doong expedition, and bookings open for the caving season (January to late August) up to two years in advance. Realistically, you can expect to join a tour around 18 months from the date you book.

The four-day/three-night expedition costs US$3000 per person (of which US$620 goes towards the upkeep of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park). This includes a pick-up and drop-off at the city of Dong Hoi (the nearest town with an airport) and the services of a cave expert, tour guide, safety assistants, cooks and porters, as well as food and drink, accommodation in tents, and all necessary safety equipment. However, you’ll need your own comprehensive travel insurance.

Are other caves in Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park worth exploring?

If you can’t join a Hang Son Doong expedition, consider joining an overnight trek with Oxalis to Hang En, another of the world’s largest caves. You’ll camp on a sandy beach beside an emerald pool inside the cave and trek through the primeval jungle to get here.

Oxalis also offers expeditions to the Tu Lan cave complex. Choose between overnight camping trips or multi-day expeditions that include abseiling into underground rivers, exploring Hang Tien, technical training in the darkest part of the cave and encounters with Nguon people in a remote mountain village.

Oxalis also offers a multi-day Hang Ba Deep Jungle Expedition, hiking through primary forest in search of wildlife such as gibbons, wildcats, langurs and wild boar, and exploring six caves that have only recently become open to guided tours.

Another operator is Jungle Boss, with various overnight and multi-day trips, including a three-day tour of Hang Thung, the giant cave linked to Hang Son Doong. Highlights include rappelling and camping by the Ma Da subterranean lake. There’s also an overnight trip to Hang Pygmy – the world’s fourth largest cavern – with paddleboarding on yet another spectacular subterranean lake.

What if I don’t have time for an overnight trip?

Time too tight for an overnight trip? From the village of Son Trach, you can day trip to Hang Tien, the largest of the dry caves in the Tu Lan system, where you can view astonishing calcite formations and rimstone pools. Alternatively, you can whizz above Hang Toi (Dark Cave) on a 400m-long (1312ft) zipline and squelch through thigh-deep mud in pitch darkness before finishing off with a kayaking session and a swim.

Visits to Phong Nha Cave involve a leisurely boat trip from Son Trach, passing rice paddies and limestone peaks before your craft glides silently past immense illuminated stalactites and stalagmites. If you climb the 330 steps to Tien Son Cave, you can view 9th-century inscriptions from the Cham era.

Even if caves are not generally your thing, Paradise Cave may change your mind. Electric buggies ferry visitors to this striking cavern surrounded by forested karst peaks. The small size of the cave entrance belies the staggering spectacle of the colossal cavern inside, flanked by otherworldly rock formations. Both Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave get busy with tour groups, so it’s best to visit first thing in the morning.

How should I choose a tour operator?

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is peppered with unexploded ordnance from the American War, and many areas can only be visited on foot with a licensed tour operator. Paradise Cave and Phong Nha Cave are accessible on day trips, but to see Hang Son Doong, Tu Lan, Hang En and some other caves, you’ll need to join an overnight trek with a licensed guide.

Oxalis is the exclusive operator for Hang Son Doong caving tours, and also runs multi-day jungle expeditions to Hang Ba, while Jungle Boss has exclusive rights to overnight treks to Hang Pygmy and three-day, two-night explorations of Tiger Cave. They also offer multi-day jungle treks and rappelling adventures to the base of Do Quyen waterfall. Ecofoot, led by knowledgeable jungle guide and conservationist Hai, arranges visits to the park’s Wildlife Rescue Centre and daytime and nighttime treks in the jungle.

When choosing an operator, ask about group sizes and the operator’s guide-to-client ratio, and confirm what exactly is included in the price. Many places to stay in Son Trach or Dong Hoi can arrange jungle treks inside Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park with independent local guides, but quality varies, so it’s worth asking other travelers for recommendations.

When should I go caving in Phong Nha-Ke Bang?

As with other parts of Vietnam, the best time to visit varies depending on what you plan to do and see. Winters (December to March) can be crisp and cold, with an equal number of sunny and rainy days, but Hang Son Doong has its own microclimate, and January and February are the best times for watching sunbeams penetrate deep inside the cave.

In late January or early February, all of Vietnam goes on vacation for the Tet festival, so it’s the busiest time of year to travel. Phong Nga residents celebrate Tet in a raucous way, sometimes using unexploded ordnance in place of fireworks and sharing jugs of rice wine with passers-by.

April to May is arguably the loveliest time to explore the national park; the weather warms up, the landscape turns a lush green and wildflowers are everywhere. You may also witness the phenomenon of clouds and mist forming inside Hang Son Doong.

Summer (June to August) is the hottest, most humid time of year, but the trekking trails to Hang Son Doong and other caves are shaded by tree cover. Inside Hang Son Doong, the temperature hovers at a balmy 22–25°C (72–77°F), and it’s warm enough to swim in the streams and underground lakes inside the cave. Autumn (September to November) brings tropical storms and heavy rain, with flooding in the jungle and inside river caves, so caving trips only run from January till late August.

How much time should I spend here?

If you’re taking part in a Hang Son Doong expedition, you need to set aside six days, but if you’re looking to just dabble in cave exploration and take in Phong Nha-Ke Bang’s above-ground attractions, you can pack a lot into four or five days. Consider an overnight trek to Hang En cave or the Tu Lan cave system, then take a day to explore the beautiful Bong Lai Valley by bicycle, followed by day trips to the Phong Nha Cave and Paradise Cave. Or perhaps combine an overnighter to Hang Pygmy with day jaunts to Hang Tien, Hang Toi, and the Bong Lai Valley.

Is it easy to get in and around Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park?

Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park spreads west to the border between Vietnam and Laos. It’s centered on Son Trach (also known as Phong Nha Village), a stop for most open-tour sleeper buses from Hanoi and Hoi An. Dong Hoi, 50km southeast of Son Trach, is the nearest city with a domestic airport, while the nearest international airports are in Danang and Hanoi.

Dong Hoi is also a stop on the train route between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, with frequent public buses connecting Dong Hoi and Son Trach. Accommodations in Son Trach also organize private and shared car transfers to/from Dong Hoi, and you can also get here using motorcycle transfer services from Hanoi, Hue and Hoi An.

Exploring the more accessible parts of Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is best done with your own wheels. Cycling or scootering is a wonderful way to traverse the rural roads on the fringes of the park; bicycle and scooter rental is available from guesthouses, homestays and hotels in Son Trach, and staff can sometimes provide maps. River taxis connect Son Trach with the beautiful, unspoiled Bon Lai Valley, and bicycles and motorbikes can be taken on board.

The condition of roads inside the park varies and routes are not well-signposted, though you can download route information from the independent website Vietnam Coracle. Consider joining a motorcycling tour with Thang Phong Nha Rider, with a knowledgeable, enthusiastic local team helping you discover the park’s highlights. They also arrange motorcycle transfers to destinations further afield, such as Hue or Khe Sanh.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need prior caving experience?

No prior caving experience is necessary; the expedition agency will take care of everything.

What gear should I bring?

Essentials include quick drying, long-sleeved shirts and trekking pants, breathable trekking shoes with good grip (rather than waterproof/Gore-Tex boots), warmer layers for winter months, and swimwear, shorts and T-shirts for summer. Other must-carry items include mosquito repellent, sun cream, antifungal cream, environmentally friendly personal hygiene items and a drybag and powerbanks for your electronic gear.

How physically fit do I need to be?

Some trekking experience is essential. In the year before a Hang Son Doong expedition, aim to complete at least one overnight trek and one or two day hikes of at least 8km that involve steep mountainous terrain. Take regular exercise to maintain an adequate level of fitness, as the Hang Son Doong expedition involves trekking on rocky terrain, some steep climbing, abseiling inside the cave, fording rivers and scrambling over large rocks.

Are there age restrictions on caving expeditions?

Most multi-day caving and jungle trek trips are open to participants aged 16 (or 18) to 70. However, Oxalis also offers day-long introductions to the Tu Lan cave for kids aged 6 and older.

What’s the accommodation like?

On overnight cave expeditions and jungle treks, you’ll sleep in tents, with drinks and meals provided by the operator. Camping equipment is transported to the campsites by porters. Many cave expeditions camp on sandy beaches beside underground rivers and lakes, providing opportunities for swimming.

What is the bathroom situation like?

Campsites inside the caves have eco-friendly composting toilets. There are no showers, but you can wash in cave rivers and lakes. Shampoo or soap should not be used, as it would contaminate the water; for some campsites, you’ll need dry shampoo and wet wipes.

Do I need to bring money on the trek?

There are few opportunities to spend money while you’re trekking, but infrastructure is limited in Son Trach, the village closest to the caves. There’s a single ATM, which is occasionally out of order, so bring plenty of cash to cover spending before and after your expedition.

Should I tip?

While tipping is not deeply ingrained in Vietnamese culture, it’s always appreciated. A standard gratuity for tour guides is around VND 100,000–200,000 per day (less for porters and cooks), depending on the length and complexity of the tour. Tip in the local currency, ideally in small denomination notes.

Mural-filled monasteries, snow-crowned peaks, ancient fortresses and tranquil Buddhist villages edged by chili farms – the stunning beauty of Bhutan is visible around every turn of its hairpin roads. As part of the country’s “high value, low volume” tourism model, there’s a fixed daily tourist fee of US$100, but the rewards speak for themselves.

Internationally famous for its commitment to “Gross National Happiness” and its carbon-negative status, Bhutan has worked hard to protect its unique culture and natural beauty. Nearly 70% of the country is blanketed in dense pine, oak and rhododendron forests, the country is rich in outdoor activities and charming villages showcase an undiluted Buddhist culture fast vanishing from other parts of the Himalayas.

While it can take hours of travel by road to reach each destination, the scenic drives (and those hair-raising bends) are all part of the experience of visiting this truly special place. For anyone interested in Himalayan scenery, mountain trekking, Buddhist spirituality and more, here are our picks for the best places to add to your Bhutan itinerary.

1. Paro

Best for hitting Bhutan’s highlights

Travelers careen between steep mountain slopes before their aircraft touches down at Paro International Airport, the gateway to the “Land of the Thunder Dragon.” Less than 10 minutes from the airport lies the historic riverside town of Paro, known for its National Museum, the dramatic Paro Dzong fortress and iconic Taktshang Goemba (Tiger’s Nest Monastery), accessible via a 6.4km (4-mile) hike.

Paro town is a place you will – and must – visit. Take time to wander the streets and visit the Paro Weekend Market to peruse shops and stalls selling Himalayan honey and handmade souvenirs. When you’ve worked up an appetite, stop into any number of restaurants – we rate Momo Corner for fresh, handmade momo dumplings.

Planning Tip: As the setting for Bhutan’s only international airport, Paro is usually the first or last stop on any Bhutan traveler’s itinerary. Whether you’ve just arrived or are wrapping up your trip, hire a car and a guide to take in the historical and religious sights spread around the Paro Valley.

2. Thimphu

Best for a taste of Bhutanese city life

Bhutan’s capital city beautifully combines culture with a cosmopolitan vibe. Spend the day creating your own stamps at the Bhutan Postal Museum, touring the massive Trashi Chho Dzong, circumnavigating the National Memorial Chorten and watching immaculately dressed policemen manually direct traffic (there are no traffic lights in the entire country).

When the sun dips below the mountains, enjoy the nightlife at bars and clubs such as Mojo Park and the Grey Area, a popular art bar with live music where you can chat with locals over a bottle or two of Bhutanese Red Panda beer or a glass of ara (a spirit distilled from rice).

Planning Tip: Be sure to take a walk in the hills around the capital. For an easy taster, a lovely, level walking trail follows the west side of the valley, linking the BSS communications tower to Wangditse Goemba.

3. Punakha

Best for experiencing rural life

Ringed by rustic riverside farms where cows graze among rice and chili fields, Punakha is one of the most beautiful places in Bhutan – home to what is arguably the country’s most spectacular dzong (monastery-fortress), sitting majestically beside the sacred confluence of two rivers.

Life in Punakha revolves around the rivers that meet at its heart. For the best river views, take a short walk from Punakha Dzong to one of the country’s largest suspension bridges, wrapped with fluttering prayer flags. Travelers can also go white-water rafting over the rapids of the Po Chhu and Mo Chhu rivers.

Planning Tip: Punakha’s low elevation (1242m/4075ft) means that temperatures tend to be warmer than in nearby towns and districts – you’ll need fewer layers and more sunscreen.

4. Khoma

Best for discovering traditional textiles

Adventurous travelers can peek behind the curtain – or perhaps that should be shawl – in Khoma, Bhutan’s textile hub. In the eastern district of Lhuentse, this village is home to roughly 100 residents and zero cars, and local artisans spend their days weaving ornate patterns and traditional Buddhist motifs on wooden looms, using dyes made from minerals and plants harvested in the area.

5. Phobjikha Valley

Best for outdoor activities and birdlife

Drive past mountain meadows dotted with yaks to reach one of Bhutan’s most sacred places. Tranquility and peace emanate from the Phobjikha Valley and its main attraction, Gangte Goemba, a 17th-century monastery gazing out over the valley’s fertile farmland. This is also one of the easiest places to spot endangered black-necked cranes.

The monastery is gorgeous but it’s Gangte’s natural beauty that really stands out. You can hike myriad trails, many with relatively flat stretches where you can focus on the views rather than exertion. Archery, mountain biking, camping, birding and picnics are other popular activities.

Planning Tip: Naturalists should aim to visit between late October and mid-March to see the elegant black-necked cranes that gather here on their migration route from Tibet.

6. Dochu La

Best for a pit stop with a view

We’ll bet you 100 Bhutanese ngultrum that this scenic rest stop will make an appearance on your Bhutan itinerary. Hailed as one of the best lookouts in Bhutan, this mountain pass lies on the route from Thimphu to Punakha, and almost everyone traveling on this road pauses to admire the view.

On a clear day, sparkling views of Himalayan peaks await, and the pass is marked by 108 stupas – a sacred number in Buddhism – honoring the Royal Bhutanese soldiers who died battling Assamese insurgents in 2003. On the opposite side of the road, stop into the dainty Druk Wangyal Lhakhang then visit the restaurant at the pass for coffee, cakes and momos.

7. Laya

Best for off-the-beaten-track adventures

The arduous seven-hour drive from Thimphu to Gasa only takes you part of the way to this remote northwestern village. From Gasa, you’ll strap on your hiking boots and trek for three to five hours uphill to the highest permanently occupied village in the country.

But the views of the Himalayan peaks are worth it. Home to the Indigenous Layap people, this pedestrian-only village is filled with yak herders, collectors of cordyceps (an insect-infecting fungus hailed as an aphrodisiac) and elders who honor ancient traditions.

Planning Tip: Try to arrange your trip to coincide with the famous Royal Highland Festival in late October, when you’ll witness one of Bhutan’s most culturally unique events, marked by livestock contests, dancing and traditional songs. 

8. Bumthang

Best for spirituality seekers

This centrally located and mountainous district is also one of the country’s most spiritual quarters. Spread over four valleys, important sites include Jampey Lhakhang, a historic 7th-century Buddhist temple, and the Jakar Dzong, an auspicious fortress built in 1549.

Rest your legs and indulge in some fresh cheese and jams at the Bumthang Swiss Cheese factory, followed by a local beer next door at the brewery that produces Red Panda beer. The Bumthang Jakar Tsechu festival in October/November is one of Bhutan’s most colorful celebrations, featuring evocative masked dances.

Planning Tip: The drive from Thimphu to Bumthang takes many hours over often treacherous roads. If you’re pressed for time – or prone to motion sickness – consider a domestic flight to Bumthang’s tiny airport from Paro.

9. Haa Valley

Best for immersing yourself in nature

While there’s no shortage of postcard-worthy vistas in Bhutan, the Haa Valley is in a league of its own. Close to the China–India border, about three hours from Paro, you’ll find some of the country’s most spectacular hiking trails, which meander through lush green valleys and monastery-dotted villages.

Covered in alpine forests and jagged mountain peaks, this small section of the country is also one of the most unspoiled. Travelers can take off on the one-day Haa Panoramic Hiking Trail or the three-day Sagala Trek, or simply sit by the Haa River and take in 360-degree views of pristine nature.

Campania is Italy in a double espresso shot: hot, feisty, passionate, loud, intense and big-hearted. Whether you’re walking in the footsteps of toga-wearing Romans through ancient ruins, clambering up the volcanic crater of smoldering Mt Vesuvius, or feasting on pizza, Caravaggio and street art in Naples, this could well be the Italy of your wildest dreams. All the drama and decadence of Italian life is crammed into this southern region.

As you helter-skelter along the cinematically beautiful coastal roads of the Amalfi Coast, where cliffs drop to pastel-painted villages and the glittering blue Tyrrhenian Sea, and swim in the azure waters of Capri, you’ll gain a deep understanding of la dolce vita. After all, when life gives Campania lemons, it makes limoncello (lemon liqueur). 

Read on for our favorite things to do to get a real flavor of the region. 

1. Strike a pose on Capri

Benvenuto (welcome) to the supermodel of the Italian islands. You’ve heard the hype and you can believe it. Off the west coast of the Sorrento Peninsula, Capri is off-the-charts beautiful. With roads rollercoasting down to the bluest-of-blue seas, steep cliffs punching above gold-sand bays, bougainvillea-swathed villas, and yacht harbors as polished as the mega-rich people frequenting them, this island is the classic Italian heart-stealer. 

You’ll find your own magic on these shores, but special moments are bound to include hiking or hopping into the chairlift to 589m-high (1932ft) Monte Solaro for mood-lifting views over the Bay of Naples, roaming through the flowery terraces of Giardini di Augusto in cinematically pretty Capri Town, and swimming among the ruins of a Roman villa at Bagni di Tiberio.

Planning tip: You can easily tack Capri on as a day trip from Naples or, quicker still, by hydrofoil from Sorrento, but you’ll wish you had spent the week. Come in the low season for fewer crowds and less excruciating prices. 

2. Rewind to ancient Greece at Paestum

Everyone raves about Athens, but there are rich pickings in Campania, too. Top billing goes to Paestum, a staggering archaeological site harboring three of Europe’s best-preserved ancient Greek temples. Originally called Poseidonia, as an ode to the Greek god of the sea, Paestum was founded by Greek settlers in the 6th-century BCE and fell into Roman hands in 273 BCE.

Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, Paestum is a joy to explore on foot – and a less crowded alternative to Pompeii if you’re craving a shot of history. Go for a wander and rewind back 2500 years in time contemplating the soaring Doric columns of the temples, which include Tempio di Cerere, dedicated to goddess Athena, and the astonishingly well-preserved Tempio di Nettuno, honoring Neptune.

Planning tip: For a primer on history, dip into the museum, which spans two floors and sheltering a fascinating collection of bas-relief friezes, frescoes, ceramics and artefacts.

3. Trek around Mt Vesuvius

Looming large above the Bay of Naples, Mt Vesuvius makes one hell of an impression. This whopper of a volcano – part of a volcanic chain thought to be around 400,000 years old – last blew its top in 1944 (and for real in 1631). Another full-scale eruption would be catastrophic, so it’s carefully monitored these days, with more than half a million people living in the “red zone”.

Get a taste of its smoldering beauty by latching onto one of the nine nature trails in the Parco Nazionale del Vesuvio. Favorites include full-day, 12km (7-mile) trail No. 1 through the “Valley of Hell,” taking in the volcano from striking angles as you trudge through rocky terrain stippled with broom, stone pine, chestnut and holm oak woods (listen for woodpeckers). Or go straight for the top: trail No. 5 to Great Cono, a gentle stomp around the crater that takes in lapilli and lava flows produced when the volcano erupted in 1944. From the crater, there are tremendous views of the city and Gulf of Naples to the mountains beyond.

Planning tip: Maps and details of the trails are available on the national park website. Start hiking early before the heat rises.

4. Find perfect pizza in Napoli

The pizza contest between Roma and Napoli has raged for centuries (exact sources quibble over precisely how long). One thing’s for sure: Rome likes its pizza thin, crisp and piled high with toppings, while Naples prefers a softer, fluffier, gooier base with less on top. Whether you scoff them on the street or straight out of a wood-fired oven in a family-run pizzeria, you’ll find real gold here.

You could pound Naples’ sultry streets for ages seeking your own faves, but our vote goes to the likes of slow-food Concettina ai Tre Santi in the beating heart of the working-class district of La Sanità. In Oliva family hands for generations, it’s now pizzaiolo (pizza maker) Ciro Oliva who takes pride in baking flawless bases and sourcing finest local produce for his toppings. Pizzas are paired with local craft beers and wines.

Local tip: Want to keep it simple? Swing by L’ Antica Pizzeria da Michele, where fabulous margherita and marinara pizzas (that’s right, just two kinds) fly out of the oven quicker than you can say delizioso! Founded in 1870, the pizzeria shot to fame when Julia Roberts ate pizza here in the 2010 film Eat, Pray, Love.

5. Escape the crowds on Procida

Never heard of Procida? You are not alone, but you are missing out. So let us fill you in. This little speck of a volcanic island in the Bay of Naples is often overlooked in the mad dash to its sister isles Capri and Ischia, but don’t make that mistake. Procida is special, with none of the glamour and clamor of nearby islands and an enticingly authentic feel. Avoid peak summer (especially August) and you’ll often find yourself largely alone on its cliff-wrapped coves, in sun-bleached streets full of friendly chatter and in pastel-painted marinas where humble taverns dish up inexpensive seafood and fisherfolk mend their nets. Renaissance palaces, baroque churches, pretty backdrops that starred in the 1994 film Il Postino – this dinky isle has the lot.

With hydrofoils speeding across to Naples in just 25 minutes, you could rush straight off, but the island is a slow-burner. Linger and it will be those lovely snapshots of daily life you’ll remember most.

Local tip: With a rich fishing heritage and rocky coast, Procida is shaped and defined by the sea. One of the best ways to get out and explore is by sea kayak.

6. Climb the clifftop streets of Positano

The poster child of the Amalfi Coast, insanely gorgeous Positano’s views (and glitzy five-star hotels) have sent poets, artists, writers and celebrities into raptures, John Steinbeck, Picasso, Klee, Liz Taylor, Mick Jagger and Taylor Swift among them.

Romantic? You bet. Looks-wise, the town is a knockout, with pastel-painted, flower-draped houses spilling down a cliffside to the brilliant blues of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Hacked into the rock, its maze of steep streets and staircases crack open the kind of views that hoover up Instagram likes. Bring flat shoes for stiff climbs.

Local tip: Lemons – Positano is famous for them, especially when they add zing to local limoncello and marmalades. Some of the best are sold at Valenti.

7. Escape to Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Vallo di Diano e Alburni 

Wave the crowds further north arrivederci and tiptoe quietly into the wondrously pretty Parco Nazionale del Cilento, Vallo di Diano e Alburni. A breath of fresh air after the buzz of Naples or the sun-bronzed hordes of the Amalfi Coast, this national park is all about slipping back to nature in woods, flower-freckled meadows, river valleys and ochre-colored hilltop villages where the out-of-tune bells of campaniles toll. All of this is set against the rugged drama of the Alburi range, dubbed the “Dolomites of Southern Italy.”

Nature trails take you properly off the beaten track, but don’t expect them to be brilliantly signposted. The exception to the rule is the path to the highest peak, 1742m (5715ft) Monte Alburno. There are two waymarked trails to the summit from the center of Sicignano degli Alburni (allow four hours for either). The park is also honeycombed with caves, including the otherworldly and unmissable Grotte di Castelcivita. Inhabited 42,000 years ago, these fantasy grottoes are a forest of stalagmites and stalactites. 

Planning tip: Come for the springtime eruption of wildflowers, when the park is a fragrant, vibrantly colored mass of narcissi, wild orchids, tulips and poppies.

8. Hike the Sentiero degli Dei

Lace up boots to hook onto the Amalfi Coast’s Sentiero degli Dei (Path of the Gods) for a heavenly feast of southern Italian landscapes, with swoon-worthy views of the rugged, densely wooded Lattari mountains sheering down to the inky-blue Mediterranean, candy-colored villages staggering down hillsides and distant glimpses of Capri. You can nail it in half a day, but with scenery like this, why rush? Pack a picnic and grab a map of the walk from local tourist offices.

Following an elevated, often rocky mule trail linking Agerola (Bomerano) to Nocelle, before tripping down 1700 stone steps to postcard-perfect Positano. The path unzips some of the area’s least-developed countryside with minimal effort and is immediately spectacular. You’ll traipse past terraced hillsides, lemon orchards and fragrant macchia (scrub) of rosemary and holm oak. A flight of 1500 steps trips gleefully down to Arienzo, where you can pause for a cooling dip, seafood lunch and cocktail at the beach club. The sunsets here are something else.

Planning tip: An easy to moderate hike, the 8km (5-mile) trail takes three to five hours to complete. Get an early start and dodge the worst of the crowds and heat by trekking it in the shoulder seasons (March to mid-June and September to October).

9. Time travel through Pompeii

As the first morning lights up the ruins of Pompeii, you might be moved to tears, or at least wide-eyed wonder.  In the shadow of Mt Vesuvius – the volcano that destroyed this once thriving Roman town when it spectacularly erupted back in 79 CE – this vast archaeological site touches deep. Buried under layers of molten lava, ash and lapilli (burning fragments of pumice stone), the ruined city is so remarkably well preserved you can still see the grooves from chariot wheels in the uneven cobbled lanes and vividly picture how life must have been roaming around its marketplaces, bathhouses, temples, frescoed villas, and amphitheaters where gladiators did bloody battle. There’s even a brothel festooned with erotic art.

Part of the beauty of Pompeii is exploring it with no fixed plan, but you won’t want to miss showstoppers like the restored, 90-room Villa dei Misteri, with its Dionysiac frieze depicting a bride-to-be into the cult of Dionysus, and the Terme Stabiane bathing complex, with its stuccoed vault adorned with putti (winged cherubs) and nymphs.

Planning tip: Arrive as Pompeii opens to sneak in before most visitors arrive. Sidestep the biggest crowds by coming during the low season (November to March).

10.  Go for a backstreet tour of Naples

Hot, rough around the edges and fizzing with energy, Naples’ true charisma only becomes apparent when you stray beyond big-hitters like the Gallerie d’Italia and its Caravaggio masterpieces. To really feel the city’s pulse, dive into the backstreets, strung with drying laundry, filled with spluttering vespas and alive with neighborly banter, stopping for an espresso on a cafe terrace, a bite of pizza on the hoof or an aperitivo (pre-dinner drink) as the sun plops into the sea.

There are lots of great tours to get you started. If you’re into your food, try Culinary Backstreets, offering a five-hour, button-busting spin of the centro storico (historic center) and beyond, ticking off everything from market to pizzeria, patisserie (for shell-shaped, cream-filled sfogliatella pastries) and baccaleria (for salt cod). If art and culture rock your boat more than food, look up Napoli Paint Stories for street-art tours and Looking for Lila for an eye-opening romp through the city’s lesser-known streets and hidden courtyards.

11.  Fall for the beauty of the Sorrento Peninsula

All of Campania is lovely, but the Sorrento Peninsula is the dream, taking its name from the sirens, mythical sea-nymphs who lured sailors to their death with the sweetest of songs. The landscapes are equally fantastical: hairpin roads whip along sheer cliff edges to olive and lemon groves, villages in a fresco painter’s palette of pastels cling to sheer rock walls, and life moves to a relaxed beat in tiny fishing ports.

Once a stop on the 19th-century Grand Tour, Sorrento itself is crazily romantic for a coffee on the piazza or a passeggiata (stroll) in the gold-pinks of sunset. Lord Byron, Keats, Goethe and Dickens found plenty of poetic inspiration here. But it’s the peninsula’s rugged, cove-indented south that will really grab you, with turquoise bays like Baia di Leranto, where you can swim, snorkel and kayak, and Punta Campanella at the very tip, with sublime views out to Capri. Here you can walk trails through the fragrant macchia or dive into electric-blue waters to explore ancient ruins and underwater grottoes. 

12.  Roam the ruins of Herculaneum

Just a quick hop south of Naples, Herculaneum is a spellbinding archaeological site that suffered a similar fate to that of its more-hyped sister, Pompeii, namely being buried by under a 16-m-thick (52ft) layer of molten lava, gas, ash and mud when Mt Vesuvius erupted big time in 79 CE. The pyroclastic flow fossilized the Roman fishing town of 4000 inhabitants, which means the ruins you see today are extraordinarily intact, from mosaics, clothing and furniture to terror-stricken skeletons.

A couple of hours here wings you back to Roman times and gives you a proper glimpse of how life would have been, as you zoom in on highlights like the Casa di Nettuno e Anfitrite, where a lavish mosaic-tiled nymphaeum (fountain and bath as a shrine to the water nymph) depicts the sea god and his bride, the Terme Maschili bathhouse, complete with a shelf for storing sandals and togas, and the Casa del Bel Cortile (House of the Beautiful Courtyard), sheltering three of the 300 skeletons, which were unearthed in 1980, almost two millennia after the eruption.

Planning tip: For more insight, jump the lines and join a two-hour guided tour with an archaeologist.

There’s something especially wonderful about traveling with your girlfriends. It’s so alluring that countless movies have been made, books written and songs sung about the uniquely magical experience of heading to new sights with your friends. Not only can these trips provide the chance to slow down from our busy lives, but they can also be an opportunity to step away from the distractions that can get in the way of quality time, all while making new memories along the way.

That’s why I asked Lonely Planet staff to help me compile a range of destinations that make for unforgettable trips for every type of girl group. Whether you are going for outdoor adventure, nightlife that never sleeps, historical explorations or a chance to relax, there is something for every type of girl gang.

1. Tulum, Mexico

Have a glitzy beach escape

Mexico is filled with unmissable experiences, but there is something about Tulum that just screams girls’ trip. Maybe it’s the white sand beaches, the fantastic cuisine, luxe hotels or countless clubs to dance the night away. Or maybe it’s because I have enjoyed all these signature perks of Tulum with my own group of girlfriends. I was there with three friends for my 24th birthday, and we spent afternoons sipping on poolside mojitos, warm mornings dashing into the ocean, hours biking through town, and day trips cooling off in cenotes. 

Tulum has finally opened an airport, which makes accessing this shimmering escape even easier. The water is warm, the sun is bright, and the cuisine is delicious. If you stay by the beach, grab dinner at MEZE, a mouthwatering Mediterranean restaurant that has a grilled catch of the day fish that I still think about.  

We stayed at Kanan, which reminded me of a treehouse and had a beautiful beachfront, but if you prefer more privacy, you can rent a private villa like Casa Xixim.

2. Montana, USA

Road trip through Big Sky Country

If pulling on jeans and a cowboy hat is more your style, follow in Digital Editor, Ann Douglas Lott’s, footsteps and head to Big Sky, Montana. She spent a girls’ weekend there last August, “trail roaming, lake swimming, hot tub soaking and, of course, driving around Yellowstone National Park.” 

Whether you rent a house in the mountains or opt for the road trip approach through stunning national parks, such as Glacier and Yellowstone, make sure to try some BBQ (Ann Douglas’ favorite was at the Riverhouse along Hwy 191), frolic through meadows and swim in natural streams. Let the nature lover in you come alive.

3. Cyclades Islands, Greece

Enjoy island time 

Iconic, beloved, captivating. There are so many words to describe the Cyclades Islands, all of which make it a fantastic girl trip destination. The beauty of these Greek islands is that there is the perfect one for whatever type of trip you are hoping to take.

Head to Mykonos for techno beats and staying up until sunrise. Opt for Paros for a quieter, swimming-focused adventure. Try Naxos for hiking and outdoor adventure, and for those of you who are coming for the food, head to Crete.

During my own visit to Mykonos, we made a day trip to Delos Island, which you can access from many of the nearby islands for a visit to ancient ruins. While it’s no Athens, it is still captivating to witness the long history that existed before you even thought to make your journey to this island. 

Pro tip: If you are heading to smaller islands, you will most likely have to take a ferry ride. Flying into Athens is typically the easiest way to go. Plus, Athens is an adventure in itself and worth a few days before or after your island time. 

4. Napa, California, USA

Explore Wine Country 

If vineyards, sunshine and friends are more of your vibe, head to Napa, California’s wine region. Nicole Geehr, a Senior Product Manager at Lonely Planet, spent a weekend in Napa with her friends from high school, visiting five different vineyards over the course of two days. Rent a house in wine country or, for something luxurious, copy Nicole and stay at the Lodge at Sonoma Resort.

There are loads of vineyard tours you can go on, or opt for a self-led exploration. Kendall-Jackson, Frank Family and La Crema are all good wine producers to visit. Enjoy the stunning landscapes, endless variations of wine to sample and hands-on workshops. Nicole and her friends had the chance to dip wine bottles in hot wax to seal them, which makes for a great souvenir. 

5. Jamaica

Relax and unwind on the beach

Want an experience from 1998-movie How Stella Got Her Groove Back for yourself? Few places feel as “classic girls’ trip” as the Caribbean. Brekke Fletcher, Senior Director of Content for Lonely Planet, takes an annual girls’ trip, and last year, she visited the white sand beaches of Jamaica. 

Brekke and her friends enjoyed the endless amenities at GoldenEye Resort, hiked to and swam at the iconic blue hole, and donned matching caftans for dinner. In Jamaica, you can relax and unwind, trek through dense, lush trails or enjoy the shimmering water all afternoon. There is endless potential.

Pro tip: It doesn’t have to be all about luxury resorts – Jamaica has plenty to offer travelers on a budget.

6. Banff, Canada

Go backpacking (in style)

For adventurous types, hit the trail. Destination Editor Jessica Lockhart was recently joined by two of her friends in the Canadian wilderness for a multiday backpacking trip. Banff is known for its towering mountains, dense and captivating forests and cold, shimmering lakes. 

If trekking and camping among trees is the way you like to girls’ trip, Banff is for you. You can also go Jessica’s route and add some cozy comfort with your outdoors with a stay at Shadow Lake Lodge, one of Banff’s three lodges, with comfortable beds, delicious food and access to countless trails for day-hiking experiences. 

“With our bear spray in hand, we put our phones on airplane mode and headed into the bush,” Jessica said. “Over the next three days, we indulged in far too much food in a cozy cabin, hiked over and above countless waterfalls to a mountain ‘amphitheater,’ and swam in glacial lakes.”

7. Sedona, Arizona, USA

Experience red rock energy

Surrounded by trails and beloved for its iconic red rock formations, there is something special about Sedona. Maybe it’s the abundance of vortexes, where energy swirls and healing can occur, that makes such a lasting impact. 

Emily Dubin, a Senior Book Designer at Lonely Planet, has an annual girls’ trip with her high school friends and this time, they chose Sedona. None of them had ever been, and the accessibility of the Phoenix airport meant everyone could take a direct flight — the perfect scenario. They hiked the Birthing Cave trail, visited a psychic and enjoyed flavorful cocktails at Mariposa.

“Some of my friends are very into the metaphysical stuff, and some of us (me) are more on the skeptical end of the spectrum, but we all agreed that whether from the vortexes or from time together in a singularly beautiful place, we left energized and renewed.”

Pro tip: Beat the heat and catch the best views by hitting the trails at sunset.

8. Seoul, South Korea

Have a city adventure

This is for girl groups that love to try something new. Serina Patel, Lonely Planet’s Marketing Manager, recently made the nearly 16-hour flight to meet her friend who lives in Seoul. While the journey is long, it is completely worth the trek, especially if you prefer getting lost in exciting new cities rather than lounging by the beach. You’ll find Seoul is jam-packed with bustling markets, all the Korean BBQ you could want and natural wonders like Seoul Forest, which are begging to be explored.

Pro tip: Extend your stay and visit Jeju-do, an island off the coast of South Korea, known for its pristine beaches, volcanic craters and great hiking. It is perfect if you like to combine city slicking with some nature.

Winter sports involve all kinds of exhilarating sensations: a sharp breeze rushing past your face, bright snow stinging your eyes, the merriment of après-ski.

Oh, and the palpitations when you first set sights on ski pass prices.

It’s true that skiing and snowboarding don’t come cheap – but for those of us who don’t plan on ordering room service to our luxury ski-in suites, there are many ways to lighten the costs. These 10 budgeting tips can have you hitting the slopes without having to take out a second mortgage.

1. Perfect your timing

To bag a bargain ski pass, look into your destination’s off-peak season, sleuth out the dates of local school holidays (to avoid them), and, if possible, steer clear of the busy Christmas period. Picking your ski time is equally important as picking the right resort, with ski passes usually cheaper at the beginning and end of the season (keeping in mind that snow cover can be an issue), as well as during the post-new-year lull in January. Remember, no matter the time of year, there’s always somewhere in the world you can ski.

2. Seek out lesser-known slopes

It’s true that the biggest-name resorts are packed for a reason – but venturing a little off-piste with your resort choice not only means fewer crowds on the slopes but also potential savings. You can find bargains in far-flung centers that are often less accessible – though savvy skiers will note that certain resorts within a snowball’s throw of the big hitters offer similar terrain for a fraction of the cost. For example, a day’s lift ticket at Cooper ski resort in Colorado is roughly half the price of neighboring Copper Mountain. Even amid the well-carved ranges of Western Europe you’ll find great budget-friendly ski resorts that are just as rewarding as the big names. You just have to be willing to branch out.

3. The higher you stay, the more you’ll pay

A hotel way up in the snowy drifts – and the privilege of skiing right out of the door – will cost you, though accommodation in the nearest town will generally be a much fairer deal. And don’t fret about distances: many ski resorts have free bus transfer services to the nearest lift and to neighboring resorts; check with the tourist office and make use of them. Those who don’t mind sharing their personal space after a day on the slopes should also check out budget-friendly dormitory accommodation.

4. Choose your flight wisely

Even amid the seasonal rush for flights to snowy spots, budget airlines can still offer bargain fares. Just try not to get get spiked by extra charges to bring your skis or snowboard on the plane. If you have your own gear, consider an airline that won’t charge you to stow them in the hold: Swiss, Virgin Atlantic and Air Canada all have reasonable allowances for sports equipment. Booking your flight at least two months in advance is a good rule of thumb to get the best prices (although with dynamic pricing, this is always a topic of debate), also remembering that flights can often be cheaper on weekdays.

5. Go for secondhand gear

Skis, boards, boots, jackets, waterproofs…there’s plenty you need – and it doesn’t come cheap. Don’t wait to rent or buy your gear at the resort, where you’ll have to pay whatever price management sets. Plan ahead and grab secondhand bargains on sites like Craigslist, which are sometimes cheaper than renting for two weeks: plenty of over-enthusiastic one-timers are keen to offload their seldom-worn ski boots for a pittance. Provided you aren’t too proud to ski in a neon patchwork ski jacket reminiscent of the 1970s, you can easily get kitted out – for less.

6. Package it up

Rolling together your flights, accommodation, lift pass and equipment rental can, in some cases, result in some heavenly bargains. Check Ski.com or SnowVentures to see if you can save by opting for a package deal.

7. Know your discounts

Plenty of resorts have discounts for early-bird ski-pass buyers, students, disabled skiers, families, large groups, long stayers and over-70s, who – at a handful of resorts including Grandvalira in Andorra and Timberline in West Virginia – ski completely free of charge.

8. Budget your après-ski

Who’s picking up the tab for those evening Jägermeisters? Winter-sports fans get brainwashed into believing that their steaming thimbleful of Glühwein (mulled wine) is an essential part of the après-ski experience, even at €4 per glug. If you’re staying in self-catering accommodation, it’s easy to warm your cockles with DIY treats, so give pricey cafes a wide berth – or, at the very least, time your visit with happy-hour deals, when drinks are cheaper. Alternatively, put that snow-proof clothing to good use by having a picnic in the snow: taking in mountain views is a lot more appealing than tottering in your ski boots over a brasserie’s slippery floor.

9. Be flexible

Shaving a day or two off your ski pass can save some cash – and you needn’t lose out on ski time if you know where to look. For instance, the French Alps have plenty of easy cross-country skiing tracks (such as around the picturesque Lake Montriond) that don’t cost you a penny to use: perfect to slice a day off your ski-pass needs. And over in Hawaii – yes, there are ski slopes there! – you can ski Mauna Kea for nothing, as long as you have your own ski gear and a buddy with a four-wheel drive. Alternatively, get better value by booking a really long trip: a ski pass for the whole season is much cheaper per day than a week-long one.

10. Get a ski job

If long-term skiing is your dream, why not deploy some good old-fashioned elbow grease? Ski resorts need chefs, cleaners, nannies, au pairs, lift operators, runners and a whole host of other enthusiastic workers. The pay can be extremely light, but in return, you can often bag free ski passes, equipment rental and accommodation. Kick off your search at sites like Ski Resort Jobs or CoolWorks.

Mountain spas. Dog-sledding. Hot springs. Mulled wine by a roaring fire. Many ski resorts offer much more than just skiing. If you’re looking for a winter weekend break filled with fun and cozy activities, you don’t need to hit the slopes to enjoy the charms of a ski resort.

Sure, you can also throw yourself down the side of a snow-capped mountain with nothing for support but two sticks. That might be fun for some people, but if it’s not your thing, you don’t have to miss out on a fantastic winter vacation. While your friends or family conquer the slopes, you can have your own adventure.

There are numerous fantastic ski towns in the USA that offer a lot more than just skiing. Whether you’re seeking no-ski activities or a unique ski town experience, these six mountain towns brimming with charm and adventure in the US are worth a visit this winter.

1. Telluride, Colorado

Best for breweries and nightly entertainment

Nestled in the southwest corner of Colorado, Telluride looks and feels like a proper Swiss winter mountain resort. The Rocky Mountain town is renowned for its ski resorts – and over the years, it has developed a variety of activities for non-skiers to enjoy in winter, too, with opportunities for snowshoeing, ice-skating, dog-sledding and more. For something new, try fat-tire biking. Rent these specially tailored bikes from San Juan Outdoor Adventures to cycle steadily across the snow. You can also soak in a natural hot spring in the revamped 19th-century ghost town of Dunton Hot Springs, just across the mountain from Telluride.

If you want to escape the winter chill, duck into the Telluride Historical Museum, or one of the town’s many independent shops and boutiques. You’ll find a dizzying number of breweries and distilleries to enjoy here, too, with something for all tastes. Most breweries, including the Telluride Brewing Company and Smugglers Brew Pub, have cozy on-site restaurants where you can tuck into plates of comfort food that will warm you up instantly. The ski town also has lots of evening entertainment to get you out on a chilly night.

Planning tip: Telluride is well known for its popular September film festival. Yet, even during a winter break, you can soak up some movie magic. Located in the former Old First National Bank Building, the historic Nugget Theater offers the charm of an old-school cinema.

2. Sun Valley, Idaho

Best for ice hockey and art galleries

If alpine skiing isn’t your jam, try Nordic skiing (cross-country skiing). In the glorious mountains of Idaho, Sun Valley Nordic Center has almost 125 miles of groomed cross-country ski trails, in addition to snowshoeing and fat-biking among its winter activities. If a motorized adventure is more appealing, take a guided tour on a snow machine at Smiley Creek Lodge in Sawtooth City. Sun Valley has hundreds of miles of groomed trails as well as backcountry bowls that are open to snowmobiles.

If you’d rather watch than participate in winter sports, get into the spirit and join local fans to cheer on the Sun Valley Suns hockey team, which goes head-to-head with other teams from the surrounding mountain towns at Campion Ice House in neighboring Hailey. Sun Valley is also one of America’s top towns for culture and is filled with local galleries featuring Western and contemporary art.

Local tip: The Spa at Sun Valley Lodge offers a relaxing oasis for massages, body rituals like Ayurvedic balancing treatments, and other spa-style wellness and healing modalities.

3. Aspen (Snowmass), Colorado

Best for thrill seekers

The towering Rocky Mountains aren’t the only thing that will take your breath away when you visit Aspen (Snowmass). Take the Elk Camp Gondola to the top of Snowmass to board the Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, which soars through the Snowmass wilderness and over the ski runs at up to 28 miles per hour. (This winter fun will thrill the kids.) Or sign up for Ullr Nights, select Friday nights that offer coaster rides, tubing, s’mores, music, dinner and other fun things non-skiers will love.

For a more laid-back no ski vacation, hop aboard the Aspen Mountain gondola for a 15-minute ride that takes you up 3200ft to lunch on the sundeck. There’s also free ice skating in the Snowmass Base Village and complimentary snowshoe adventures at the Limelight Snowmass.

4. Stowe, Vermont

Best for food, drink and shopping

This classic New England destination is scenic, inviting and neighborly – it’s also one of the best winter resorts for non-skiers. Since the locavore movement (eating sustainably grown local goods) started in Vermont, Stowe’s dining scene is a celebration of locally sourced ingredients served with a creative twist. Take the Mansfield Gondola to grab a farm-to-table lunch at Cliff House at the top of Vermont’s highest peak. Then browse the town’s 50 unique boutiques, country stores, galleries, specialty markets, sporting goods stores and other retailers.

No skiing? No problem. Make a stop at the Vermont Ski & Snowboard Museum to learn the history of skiing and riding in the Green Mountain State. Then lace up your ice skates for a glide around the outdoor rink in the shadow of Mt Mansfield at the Lodge at Spruce Peak before grabbing a drink in the lobby of Spruce Peak and watching the snow fall through floor-to-ceiling windows.

5. Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Best for soaking in hot springs

One of the best ski towns in the US, Wyoming’s famous vacation destination isn’t just for well-to-do skiers: there’s plenty to do on and off the mountains. First, take the legendary Jackson Hole Aerial Tram: in nine minutes, you’ll ascend 4139 ft as you enjoy 360-degree mountain views of the Tetons and Jackson Hole valley.

Down below, between the ski shops, there’s plenty of shopping in Teton Village, as well as in the historic town of Jackson (easy to access via public bus), whether you’re looking for handmade knives, locally distilled spirits or trendy apparel. If you’re in the mood for a different kind of winter adventure, arrange for a sleigh ride, dog sledding, snowmobiling or snow-coach tour through the National Elk Refuge. At Astoria Hot Springs Park on the banks of the Snake River, you can soak your cares away in the shadow of the Tetons surrounded by a 95-acre park.

Local tip: At Jackson Hole Aerial Tram, grab a waffle at Corbet’s Cabin at the top.

6. Park City, Utah

Best for bobsledding, fly fishing and paddleboard yoga 

Non-skiers will find plenty to explore in Park City, Utah. History buffs will love the town’s idyllic Main St, with its 47 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places. Wander through this “Western Saloon Town,” and you’ll find an abundance of boutique shops, restaurants and galleries to explore.

If you still want to get outside, Escape Room Park City lets you challenge yourself with an outdoor scavenger hunt. For exercise, consider stand-up paddleboard yoga in a geothermal crater with Park City Yoga Adventures, or snow-season fly fishing in blue-ribbon-awarded riverways through Park City Fly Fishing Guides. Ever wondered what it feels like to soar down a bobsled course? Wonder no more. At Utah Olympic Park, you can race down the same track used in the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympic Games.

Stellar food and drink options abound in Park City. The Viking Yurt welcomes guests by sleigh ride to an elaborate, Norwegian-inspired tent. And the trip up to Rime Seafood & Raw Bar at Deer Valley Resort, via the Jordanelle Gondola, is almost as satisfying as the menu of decadent oysters, clams, shellfish and other delicacies.

Who says you need to ski to get the most out of the best winter resorts in the US?

There are few places in the world that can match the beauty of Ireland’s islands. Even on wet, misty days, the islands are compelling. Their rugged features become more dramatic. They inspire stories – and adventures. Hundreds of islands dot the coastline of Ireland, each offering something special. From wild tales of pirate queens and one-eyed warrior kings to surprising appearances of wild wallabies or a tropical lagoon in Irish waters, the islands offer a uniquely Irish experience.

1. Achill Island, County Mayo

Best for cinematic landscapes, outdoor adventures and basking sharks

Along with the Aran island of Inis Mór, Achill was the location for the fictional island of Inisherin in the Oscar-nominated The Banshees of Inisherin. Director Martin McDonagh wanted to capture the beauty of Ireland’s western islands on screen with the island becoming another protagonist in the film. Home to towering sea cliffs, soaring mountains, sheltered bays and secret beaches, the scenery is striking indeed.

But the island isn’t just getting by on its looks. The second most populous island in Ireland after the Great Island in County Cork, there are plenty of things to do like hiking, cycling, rock climbing and canoeing. It’s also a great spot for surfing ⁠– particularly along the wind-bashed Dooagh Strand ⁠– and swimming at the island’s many Blue Flag beaches. Start your day with a morning swim in Keem Bay, a white-sand beach that occasionally attracts basking sharks. Hike the Cliffs of Croaghaun or learn more about the island’s history from local guides on the Colony Tour or the Deserted Village Tour.

Get there: The island is connected by a bridge and makes for an easy day trip from mainland Mayo. You can also bike on the Great Western Greenway, a 26-mile trail that starts in Westport. Westport Bike Hire organizes twice-daily shuttles between Westport and Achill if you don’t have your own wheels.

2. Tory Island, County Donegal

Best for sea dives, mythology and kings

Tory Island is the most remote of the Irish islands. With a population of roughly 140 people, just one hotel and a handful of B&Bs, the buzz of city life fades away quickly here, with the feeling of bygone days taking its place. As part of Donegal’s Gaeltacht region, Irish is the first language here, but English is also spoken.

Tory is a swimmer’s and diver’s dream. Take a dip at the harbor or book a diving session with Mevagh Dive Centre to investigate the wreck of the HMS Wasp, a Royal Navy gunboat whose crew was en route to evict poor tenant families in 1884. It’s said that the island’s Neolithic cursing stone, Cloch na Mallacht, was used to steer the ship off course and toward its untimely end.

Tory Island is rich in folklore, with Balor, the one-eyed warrior king of the mythological Irish superrace, the Fomorians, ruling there. On the east coast of the island, the ruins of his fort (Dún Balor) look out across the sea. From here, you can see An Eochair Mhór (the big key), a long spur that juts out from a peninsula, forming An Tor Mór (the big rock), where Balor imprisoned his daughter. The locals also have a longstanding tradition of choosing a king to represent them; but the last King of Tory passed away in October 2018.

Get there: Ferries for Tory Island depart daily from Magheraroarty Pier, County Donegal. The journey takes roughly 45 minutes and you can book tickets online.

3. Inis Meáin, County Galway

Best for Irish literary history and scenic seascapes

With 200 people living on the island, Inis Meáin (Inishmaan) has the smallest population of the three Aran Islands. Since the community is predominantly Irish-speaking, you can immerse yourself in traditional culture while getting back to nature. While it’s the least visited of the Aran Islands, it offers plenty to do, including beach swims, scenic diving spots, ancient ruins and traditional music sessions in the Teach Ósta pub.

The island is small, so you can take in the sights on foot, stopping off to admire wildflowers or swimming by the old port. But if you really want to get to know the island, rent a bike. 

Close to the prehistoric stone fort of Dún Chonchúir is the holiday cottage of the playwright JM Synge, who is said to have drawn inspiration for The Playboy of the Western World here. The 300-year-old Teach Synge cottage is now open to the public as a library and a museum. Synge’s chair was a writing spot the author cherished, thanks to its views that overlook the island’s “puffing holes,” where sea water rushes in through a series of natural channels in the cliffs to create a spray.

Elsewhere on the island, you can view stained glass windows from the studio of renowned artist Harry Clarke in the Mary Immaculate Church or pick up a traditional Aran sweater from Inis Meain Knitting Company.

Get there: You can fly with Aer Arann in a 10-seat plane from Connemara Airport. You can also take the ferry: 50 minutes from Ros a’ Mhil (Rossaveel) with Aran Island Ferries, or 20 minutes from Doolin with Doolin Ferry.

4. Clare Island, County Mayo

Best for pirate tales, mountain hiking and mindfulness

Mayo’s Clew Bay is said to have 365 islands – one for each day of the year – yet, in reality, it has 117, and Clare Island is the largest. With hills and mountains filled with historical sites and a Blue Flag beach, it’s a perfect island for outdoor activities.

Macalla Farm is a family-run retreat center that combines yoga, horses, food and mindfulness. Since it’s also a working farm, most of the food is produced on-site, with vegetarian meals available to guests throughout their stay. Crisscrossing the island are several walking and hiking routes that will knock the cobwebs out of your head. Two of the most popular are Clew Bay Archaeological Trail, which includes stop-offs at the 13–15th century abbey and a megalithic court tomb, and the Knocknaveena Loop, which takes you up and around Knocknaveen Mountain.

Things weren’t always so peaceful here. Clare Island is the ancestral home of Gráinne Mhaoil, the fearsome and legendary Pirate Queen Grace O’Malley. Notorious for wreaking havoc at sea for most of the 16th century, she used her castle here to control the waters of Clew Bay. (You can still visit Granuaile’s Castle today.)

Nowadays there’s plenty to do at night, with the two pubs regularly putting on trad nights as entertainment, balancing the calm of the retreat with the storm of the session.

Get there: It takes approximately 25 minutes to get to Clare Island by ferry from Roonagh Pier, County Mayo. You can book ferry tickets from either Clare Island Ferry Co. or O’Malley Ferries.

5. Inishbofin, County Galway

Best for sustainable tourism, food festivals and historical walking tours

One of the most popular islands to visit in Ireland, Inishbofin is both steeped in history and a center for sustainable tourism. As the first Leave No Trace island in the country, a number of its beaches – including East End and Dumhach – have already received the Green Coast Award for environmental excellence thanks to their crystal-clear waters.

Walking tours are a huge draw for visitors here. On three official walking loops, you can take in sights like the Dún More Cliffs, one of the island’s two seal colonies, the 14th-century chapel of St Colman’s and panoramic views of Croagh Patrick, Inishturk and Clare Island. Alternatively, you can walk with the local historians and archaeologists of Cultúr na nOileáin Tours, who will tell you more about the island’s history, including its involvement with a certain Pirate Queen.

Gráinne Mhaol built another castle for herself here, aptly named Dún Gráinne, when her family took ownership of the island. Her Spanish pirate pal Alonzo Bosco built a castle opposite hers – and with these prime viewing spots, they prevented unwanted ships from entering the island by stretching an iron chain castle to castle, looting the cargo from the unfortunately ensnared vessels.

Inishbofin is also famous for its locally produced organic food. The annual food festival Bia Bó Finne, which draws hundreds of visitors each autumn, is a testament to this tradition.

Get there: To get to Inishbofin, you have to get a ferry from Cleggan Harbour, an hour and a half away from Galway City. The crossing time is roughly 30 minutes; you can book tickets for your trip online.

6. Inishturk, County Mayo

Best for world-class crab, lagoons and to feel like a local

Inishturk is the island less traveled. And with a population of just 54 people, you can easily end up feeling like a local rather than a tourist. The beating heart of Turk is its community center – which is also the island’s pub, shop and restaurant – where you can eat freshly caught lobster, pollock, mackerel and perhaps the best crab in the world.

But beyond the people, the hills are begging to be explored. The island’s ring road is exactly 5km (3 miles) long ⁠– perfect for runners. Further down the beaten track is the island’s GAA sports pitch, the most westerly one in Europe and – framed by rugged hills. Not far from this is another breathtaking view of Port Dún. This beautiful lagoon harbor is said to be the hiding spot of Gráinne Mhaol’s gold, and makes for a great spot for a swim.

Fishing is one of the island’s main draws and private angling trips can be arranged. But if you’d rather see the pros in action, Turk’s annual Seafest is a great excuse for a visit. The event blends music, wellness, eating and observing; expect to do beach yoga and learn the art of sean nós dancing, foraging or fileting a fish – all in one weekend.

Get there: Inishturk is 50 minutes by ferry from Roonagh Pier, which is not far from gorgeous Westport. Book tickets for your journey here.

7. Sherkin Island, County Cork

Best for peace, quiet and an artistic vibe

The green hills, sandy beaches and jagged shorelines of Sherkin Island in West Cork contain a total population of 111 people. As the ferry pulls into the pier, you’ll see the ruins of Mainster Inis Arcain, the island’s 15th-century friary. And it’s all uphill from there. Literally.

Take the many twists on the main road to North Shore, with every turn showing a different side of the island, from leafy green canopies of the woodland trees to the dramatic coastline of Cow Strand Beach. With four walkways weaving throughout the island, each one catering to different walking abilities, you can take in the sights before settling into The Jolly Roger for a deserved evening pint. Home to artists, writers and musicians, the island crackles with creativity and locally made knitwear, silverwork, jewelry, wrought-iron pieces, candlesticks and decorative silk scarves are all available to buy.

Living at one of the most southerly points in Ireland, the people of Sherkin Island boast of their own warm microclimate. During the summer months, the island is a hub of activity with events like the Open Ear music festival, which specializes in contemporary art and alternative music. Even though things quiet down during winter, it remains a perfect retreat from the fast pace of life elsewhere.

Get there: A ferry from Baltimore, County Cork takes 10 minutes. Book your journey online.

8. Saltee Islands, County Wexford

Best for a nature-filled day trip in a birdwatcher’s paradise

Just off the southern coast of County Wexford lie the two privately owned islands of Great Saltee and Little Saltee. Day visits to Great Saltee are permitted by the island’s residents, the Neale family, though Little Saltee is inaccessible due to the dangerous currents that surround it.

The Saltees are home to Ireland’s most famous bird sanctuary, with birds from all over the world stopping off on this busy migratory route. It’s also one of the few breeding locations for grey seals in eastern Ireland. When visiting the Saltees, you are asked to fully respect the island’s inhabitants, carrying out your own rubbish and avoiding the private home of the Neale family.

Perfect for picnics and rambling, Great Saltee has a rich history that will send your imagination into overdrive. The island is sometimes called the “Graveyard of a Thousand Ships,” and a number of vessels from both world wars sank off its coast. The island also has a regal past: Michael Neale, who bought the island in 1943, declared himself Prince Michael of the Saltees. “Coronated” in 1956, he built a throne, which you can still sit on, and erected an obelisk in his likeness. A mildly eccentric man, he also became a pilot – and it’s rumored that he once flew in 46 cats to deal with the island’s rat problem. Sadly, the cats are no longer there, which is probably a blessing for the birds.

Get there: The island is accessible by the Saltee Ferry from Kilmore Quay, Wexford Town. If the family is in residence, day-trippers are only allowed between 11:30am and 4:30pm; any visitors that land a boat outside of designated hours will be asked to leave. No overnight camping is permitted.

9. Lambay Island, County Dublin

Best for a private retreat with some unusual wildlife

Located just four kilometers off the east coast of Ireland in County Dublin, Lambay Island is privately owned, with a population of seven people, 100 red-necked wallabies, 200 fallow deer and thousands of seabirds. The island has been owned by the Barings family since 1904, and there’s an air of luxury due to the limited accommodation that’s available throughout the year.

The island has a total of 23 rooms, and only guests who have an existing connection to Lambay can stay in the renovated 15th-century castle or the White House. The rest of us can request to stay in O’Connell’s Cottage, which sits at the end of a row of 18th-century coastguard cottages and sleeps six people. If you fail to nab a bed, day tours are available, with options to go on walking and historical tours or simply to visit for lunch.

Throughout the year, various retreats are on offer including yoga, writing, foraging and cooking. The water from the island’s natural spring is not only used for drinking, washing, cooking and bathing: it’s also used to create the island’s own Lambay Whiskey.

Get there: The ferry takes 15–30 minutes from Malahide. You can book tickets from Skerries Sea Tours or find out about staying on the island here.

10. Rathlin Island, County Antrim

Best for secluded walks and rustic beauty

Rathlin Island enchants its visitors with its storied past, natural wonders and spirit of adventure. The only inhabited offshore island in Northern Ireland, Rathlin is home to about 150 people. Taking the Puffin Bus Service to the West Light Seabird Centre is a great way to observe some of the island’s other residents, including puffins and seals. 

The village of Church Bay is the main hub for eating, drinking and accommodations if staying overnight on the island. From here, you can venture on foot or by bike to explore the wild, remote countryside. There are numerous trails to explore, ranging from gentle walks to challenging treks. The 6km (4 mile) Rathlin Trail showcases the dramatic landscapes of the island while offering sweeping views of the sea.

Dining options on the island are limited and some activities are cash only, so be sure to plan accordingly. However, Café Lazybird offers light, eclectic options and McCuaig’s Bar is a staple for classic pub fare and a good pint. 

Get there: The passenger-only ferry service from Ballycastle makes the approximately 25-minute trip up to 10 times per day in the summer and five times per day in the winter. Booking ahead is advised. 

11. Skellig Michael, County Kerry

Best for sci-fi fans

The jagged, 217m-high rock of Skellig Michael rises dramatically out of the sea 12km (7.5 miles) off the coast of County Kerry, topped with the remains of an improbable 1400-year-old early Christian monastery. The remote island famously featured as Luke Skywalker’s Jedi temple in two Star Wars movies, attracting a whole new audience to the Skelligs’ dramatic beauty.

Influenced by the Coptic Church (founded by St Anthony in the deserts of Egypt and Libya), the monks’ determined quest for ultimate solitude led them to this remote, windblown edge of Europe. Not much is known about the life of the monastery, but there are records of Viking raids in 812 and 823 CE. Although the site was expanded in the 12th century, the monks abandoned the rock soon afterward. In the 1820s, two lighthouses were built on the island, along with the road that runs around the base.

Key sites on the island include The Steps (three ancient staircases that lead to the top), the 6th-century monastery and The Hermitage, a small structure dating to the 9th century.

If you just want to see the islands up close and without having to clamber out of the boat, consider a ‘no landing’ cruise with operators such as Skellig Experience on Valentia Island.

Get there: Boat trips to the Skelligs usually run from mid-May to September (dates are announced each year by the Office of Public Works, which looks after the site), weather permitting. Boats depart from Portmagee, Ballinskelligs and Caherdaniel. The number of daily visitors is limited, with boats licensed to carry no more than 12 passengers each, so it’s wise to book well ahead. 

12. Valentia Island, County Kerry

Best for history and heritage

Valentia Island is a beautiful and under-visited corner of Kerry with a rich and fascinating history. Its Latin-sounding name is actually an anglicized version of the Irish Béal Inse, meaning ‘the mouth of the island,’ a reference to the natural harbor entrance. The island is laced with narrow roads and lends itself to leisurely exploration by bike, though you could take in the main sights in a day by car. 

A couple of sights explain Valentia’s role as the eastern terminus of the first transatlantic telegraph cable (the other end was at Heart’s Content in Newfoundland, Canada), established in 1866. The Valentia Transatlantic Cable Station in Knightstown (closed Mondays and Tuesdays and from November to March) chronicles the epic struggle that saw the birth of global telecommunications and is currently campaigning for Unesco World Heritage status. Also in Knightstown, Valentia Island Heritage Centre is an intriguing local museum with a treasure trove of artifacts that tell the tale of the island’s history more eloquently than any textbook.

Further flung attractions include Valentia Island Lighthouse (closed November to March), set in a 17th-century military fort at the northern tip of the island. You can visit the lightkeeper’s house and climb to the top of the lighthouse tower. Skellig Experience (closed from December to February) is just across the bridge from Portmagee at the southern end, with exhibits on local history, wildlife and the life of the Skellig Michael monks.

The local landowner has transformed the island’s highest point, Geokaun (266 meters/872 feet), into a network of easy walking trails and viewpoints, with a breathtaking outlook over the Fogher Cliffs. It’s possible to drive all the way to the top, so visitors with limited mobility don’t miss out on the views. At quieter times, the site is unstaffed, and entry is via an automatic barrier (payment with coins only).

Get there: You can get to Valentia Island via car ferry or road bridge from Portmagee.

13. Blasket Islands, County Kerry

Best for feeling like you’re on the edge of the world

The Blasket Islands (Na Blascaodaí) off the tip of the Dingle Peninsula are the most westerly part of Ireland and one of the westernmost points in Europe (after Iceland, the Azores and Rockall). All of the islands were lived on at one time or another; there is evidence of the largest, Great Blasket (An Blascaod Mór), being inhabited during the Iron Age and early Christian times. But no more – the last islanders abandoned their homes in 1953, moving to the mainland or North America after they and the government agreed that it was no longer viable to live in such harsh and isolated conditions.

The rich history and cultural life of the islands are celebrated in the Blasket Centre at Dunquin, a wonderful interpretative center housed in a striking modern building with a long white hall ending in a picture window looking directly at the islands. Great Blasket’s rich community of storytellers and musicians is profiled along with its literary visitors, such as playwright JM Synge, author of The Playboy of the Western World. The more prosaic practicalities of island life are covered by exhibits on boatbuilding and fishing.

Get there: There are two passenger services that operate in the summer: t​​he Ferry from Dun Chaoin Pier and the Eco Ferry.

Nevada’s
landscapes are a mosaic of glimmering lakes, rugged mountain ranges, fiery
canyons, and towering dunes. This diversity provides an astonishing array of easy, intermediate
and challenging
activities that you can spend a lifetime enjoying without repeating the same
adventure twice. The best part? Nevada is home to more than 60 million acres of
public land, and
more
than 80 percent of the state is open to recreational activities. Here’s
just a taste. 

Explore the largest alpine lake in North America

It’s hard not to be captivated the first time
you lay eyes on Lake Tahoe. With a
surface area of 191 square miles, the water appears as vast as the turquoise
sky. For the best views, rent a kayak from
Sand
Harbor State Park or Zephyr Cove
Resort and head toward the center of the lake where the water is so clear
you can see more than 70 feet below. Afterward, pull into a cove to sun
yourself on the sand or relax on one of Lake Tahoe’s colossal smooth rocks.

Lake Tahoe is just as bewitching in the
winter, when the snow-covered Sierra Nevada casts its reflection across the
lake. The region becomes a wonderland for snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and skiing
at resorts like
Mount
Rose Ski Tahoe or Diamond
Peak Ski Resort. For an unforgettable winter hike, head to
Chickadee
Ridge. Although you’ll often need snowshoes after a fresh dump of powder or
in icy conditions, the snow is often firm enough to trek through the forest in
boots or waterproof shoes. The views of the lake at the summit are
breathtaking, but the real stars of this hike are the mountain chickadees that
frequent the area.

Sink into surreal
scenescapes

Las Vegas is so famous for its neon lights and
entertainment that it’s easy to forget the city is surrounded by dramatic
desertscape. Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is only a 20-minute drive away,
but this kingdom of rust-red canyons, sandstone bluffs, and ancient petroglyphs
might as well be in another universe. Designated trails are perfect for
mountain bikers who want to get up close and personal with the spectacular
scenery.

The Calico Hills offer some of the park’s most
unique hikes including the Calico Tanks Trail, which winds its way up banded
rock formations to a natural pool. The crags and canyons are a paradise for
climbers: the area contains more than 1,200 named routes of sandstone, basalt,
and limestone – some of which offer the occasional glimpse of the Las Vegas
Strip in the distance.

Red Rock Canyon is also home to a population
of burros. They are understandably shy, but you can sometimes spot them in the
park’s northern section near Cold Creek.

Listen to the sand
sing

Just outside Fallon, in the northwestern
section of the state, you’ll find
Sand
Mountain Recreation Area. The epic two-mile-long, six-story-high dune is
beloved by ATV riders and off-roaders. It’s also one of only a few singing sand
dunes in the world, and you’ll sometimes hear it whistle, hum, and moan as the
sand tumbles. In the center of it all, you’ll find the Super Bowl, a giant
hollow carved by wind that, incredibly, remains intact no matter how much the
sand around it shifts.

This is the world’s only place to see the rare
Sand
Mountain blue butterfly. The butterflies only live one week, and they never
stray more than a 200-foot radius from the Kearny’s buckwheat that makes up
their food source. Each one is a tiny blue miracle.

Wander prehistoric
slot canyons

One favorite off-the-beaten-track place in
Nevada is also one of its most awe-inspiring. Cathedral
Gorge State Park was formed by ancient volcanic eruptions forming a fault
that eventually filled with water. Over many millennia, the lake drained,
leaving behind an otherworldly landscape of majestic hoodoos, spires, and slot
canyons.

One of the best hikes in the park is the
Juniper Draw Loop Trail, a 3.6-mile loop that begins at the Cathedral Gorge
State Park campground. The terrain is mostly flat, and the path cuts through
several sandy stretches dotted with juniper and sage and framed by dramatic
rock formations.

Cathedral Gorge State Park is particularly
rewarding at sunrise and sunset. At these hours, the light plays in the slots
and pockets of the canyons, and the creamy peach-colored rocks turn to a fierce
bright orange. To take it all in, head to the Miller Point Overlook—a gazebo
constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s—which offers some
of the best vistas in the park.

Stargaze along the
Extraterrestrial Highway

Nevada’s Extraterrestrial
Highway is equal parts history, beauty, and kitsch. Home to the legendary Area 51
(the once top-secret government facility rumored to hide an alien spaceship),
this area offers everything from UFO-themed bars to a black mailbox
that may or may not serve as a rendezvous point for visitors from outer space.

This region of Nevada is as alluring to
history buffs as it is to UFO enthusiasts since it’s peppered with ghost
towns, old cemeteries, and historic mining communities. Mostly, though,
it’s a lot of gorgeous desert scenery and open roads. When you visit, raise
your gaze to the night sky. You might not see spacecraft, but since there isn’t
any light pollution on this long stretch of highway, the stars burn beautiful
and bright.

Nevada’s public lands belong to the people.
You can help preserve these incredible natural places by carrying reusable
water bottles, keeping to dedicated trails, and packing out what you pack in.
These small acts ensure that Nevada will be just as wild, wonderful, and
welcoming when you’re ready to come back again.