Category Wildlife and Nature

Contrary to what a certain popular horror franchise would have you believe, quiet places are about finding a blissful bubble in which to relax and unwind amidst the bustle of travel.

The joy of visiting new (and familiar!) places is the adventure, excitement and new experiences it brings, but every so often, you just need a peaceful place to take a deep, unhurried breath. You’ve probably heard about dark sky parks: remote locations with little if any light pollution, ideal destinations for stargazers.

But what about the auditory equivalent? Finding a place free of man-made noise is a challenge, even in places that seem like the middle of nowhere. One person has risen to the challenge of finding and protecting such places for all our sakes.

Noise pollution is bad news for everyone

A 2017 study by researchers at Colorado State University shows noise pollution – caused by things like nearby roads, air traffic, logging, mining and urban settlements – is pervasive across the United States, including in designated wilderness and protected areas. And if this is bad for us, it’s even worse for wildlife, who rely on the sounds of their environment for survival.

But there may be hope. A movement started by Gordon Hempton, author of the book “One Square Inch of Silence,” and his organization Quiet Parks International (QPI) seeks to preserve those few places left where it’s possible to experience relatively pure silence – just the sounds of nature. The hope is that travelers will seek them out, just as they seek out dark sky parks, to take a short break from the constant human presence.

The serenity of a Wilderness Quiet Park: only the sounds of nature

Most quiet parks are well off the beaten path – and even so, many are still threatened by intrusive noise pollution. For instance, the remote, mysterious, moss-laden Hoh Rain Forest on Washington state’s Olympic Peninsula, where Hempton initially set up his “One Square Inch” experiment, remained relatively free of noise pollution for years – until US Navy training flights recently started rumbling over a corner of the park. That change, and his inability to stop it, is what led Hempton to launch Quiet Parks International, hoping a global effort would have a greater impact.

How many Wilderness Quiet Parks are there?

The first official “wilderness quiet park” certified by QPI is along the Zabalo River in Ecuador. The area demonstrates “a healthy balance of bioacoustic activity with … noise-free intervals lasting several hours,” according to the organization’s website. Even that description tells you how hard it is to find a place completely undisturbed by the sounds of human activity.

QPI hopes quiet park status will eventually be enough of a tourism draw to benefit the local Indigenous Cofán tribe, which owns the land. This initial quiet park was then joined by two more US-based areas in 2022 and 2023, respectively – Glacier National Park in Montana and Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in Minnesota.

Future, potential Wilderness Quiet Parks

QPI has also identified several other potential wilderness quiet parks around the world. Most of them are in designated natural areas with minimal artificial light sources (there’s a lot of overlap with dark sky parks).

They tend to be located far from established flight patterns and other major sources of traffic noise, in places where land use is unlikely to create frequent noise (eliminating most agricultural and mining areas, for example).

In the United States, these potential new quiet parks include Big Bend Ranch State Park in Texas, the American Prairie Reserve in Montana, and Haleakalā National Park in Hawaii.

In Europe, nominated quiet parks include Snowdonia National Park and the Brecon Beacons in Wales, Białowiezå Forest in Poland and multiple places in between.

There are dozens of other potential sites around the world, including the Skeleton Coast of Namibia, Garajonay National Park in the Canary Islands, Manu National Park in Peru and the aptly named Silent Valley National Park in Kerala, India.

All of these could potentially become designated quiet parks if QPI’s site visits show that they meet the proper criteria. The project is run by volunteers and relies on donations – part of the certification process will be to establish just how quiet is quiet enough.

Urban Quiet Parks: an oasis in the middle of a city

Your best chance of escaping man-made noise is to head out into the wilderness. But if all goes as planned, you won’t have to go that far to get a taste of natural silence. QPI has been working to establish and certify urban quiet parks – places near or within major cities that have been set aside as quiet, noise-pollution-free spaces.

As of 2024, there are 10 urban quiet parks in the world, spanning from Hampstead Heath in London, England to Yangmingshan National Park in Taipei, Taiwan.

A pilot program in Stockholm, Sweden, has identified 65 “calm places” within the city and its surroundings, as well as 22 walks signposted with the “quiet trails” icon; the routes are described in brochures visitors can find in tourist offices or online. All the walks are easily reachable by metro, bus, bicycle or on foot from the city center. Similar experiments are taking place in Taiwan, New York City and Portland, Oregon.

There are also efforts to create quiet communities, quiet marine trails and hiking trails, and even quiet hotels. All of this indicates that, gradually, we’re beginning to recognize the value of a little peace and quiet in a busy world.

Quiet and culturally rich Laos has lots to offer – much of which you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Less famous than its neighbors Thailand and Vietnam, Laos can sometimes sink into obscurity along the Southeast Asia backpacking trail.

Don’t let it. The quiet and culturally rich Lao People’s Democratic Republic has lots to offer – much of which you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

While its history has been marked by war, revolution and other hardships, all this has unfolded in a stunning tropical paradise. Indeed, it’s this very contrast – between a tumultuous past and sheer natural beauty – that makes Laos a particularly rewarding and eye-opening destination to explore.

Laos is one of the best countries to visit next year. See our full list of Best in Travel 2025 winners.

The ancient Lanna kingdom capital of Luang Prabang boasts some of the most untouched and historically significant temples in the region. The capital Vientiane brims with multicultural nuances. Incredible natural beauty is apparent in almost every province. All this makes Laos an ideal place for those who prefer getting off the beaten tourist track. The country has generally drawn backpacking types, though it’s now becoming a more popular (and accessible) place for families and luxury travelers, too.

If you’re headed to Laos for the first time, here’s what you should know.

When should I go to Laos?

As in most other Southeast Asian countries, Laos promises a tropical climate throughout the year, with average daytime temperatures ranging between 25°–35°C (77°–95°F).

During the “winter” months of November to February, Laos cools down a smidge; thanks to a lack of rain clouds, the nights can get comfortably chilly. Any local would say this is the best time to visit.

In winter, the humidity drops, the rivers are full and the tropical forests are lush from the recent monsoon rains. The northernmost parts of the country (such as Luang Namtha, Luang Prabang and Udomxai) are also noticeably more temperate than other areas on the same latitude thanks to their mountainous elevation.

October is a great month to visit Laos if you prefer to beat the winter crowds. Although you may catch the tail end of the monsoon, things should stay mostly dry – and there are several cultural festivals worth taking in, like the Boat Racing Festival and the Naga Rocket Festival (dates vary from year to year for both).

But a tropical climate is not all sun and games. March through June is the summer, where the heat can be unbearable for the uninitiated, especially on buses and in hostels. River levels are also low during this time (a situation made worse by Chinese and Thai dam projects along major waterways), while slash-and-burn farming blankets portions of the country in a hazardous haze of PM2.5 particulate matter.

The summer’s saving grace, however, is the Lao New Year, when the country erupts into a nationwide water fight to wash away the sins of yesteryear and ring in the new. Known in Laos as Pi Mai, the festival is generally a calmer affair than in next-door Thailand, emphasizing cultural experiences over parties. If you happen to be with a family or friendly locals, you’ll no doubt be invited to a “merit-making” ceremony to call up good luck, health and fortune in the new year. For something a little more public, head to any city center for parades, festive markets and performances galore.

By July, the new rains quench the parched earth and clean the air, giving way to a palette of lush greens nationwide. While travel during the monsoon season can be exciting, many tourist attractions and national parks close during this time due to flooding and other rain-induced dangers. The only exception is the Bolaven Plateau, where an exceptional array of cascading waterfalls and forested waterways reach their full glory during this time.

How much time should I spend in Laos?

First-time visitors can consider two options. First: a short, in-and-out trip as part of a wider tour of Southeast Asia. Entering and exiting from Vientiane with a few days’ jaunt around the wild mountains of Vang Vieng and Luang Prabang gives a taste of the country’s treasures for those on a tight schedule.

Just an hour away from the capital on the new high-speed train line, or 3 hours by bus, Vang Vieng is renowned for its unearthly limestone mountains and countless blue-green lagoons that offer a natural escape from the tropical heat. The town has moved on from its once louche reputation, with a ban on infamous “river bars” making it a draw for those who admire natural beauty and outdoor adventure.

A few hours north again and you’ll be in sleepy Luang Prabang, whose ancient cities, jungle aesthetics and laid-back pace offer plenty of allure. When you’re ready to speed up again, the high-speed train will have you back to Vientiane in under 2 hours.

If you have a few more days, we highly recommend making a loop of the country. Enter from Thailand, Vietnam or China, then use the intercity buses that connect Laos’ larger towns. For planning purposes, you can divide the country into four sectors: the north, where you’ll find Luang Prabang, Luang Namtha and farther-afield spots like the megalithic Plain of Jars; the Vientiane region, home to both the busy capital and nearby, dreamy Vang Vieng; the central provinces, where you can enjoy the stunning scenery of the Tha Khaek Loop and old colonial cities like Savannakhet; and the south, with the stunning Bolaven Plateau and Si Phan Don (also called “the 4000 islands”), which make up the beginning of the Mekong River Delta.

Top things to do in Laos

Irrespective of your timeline, there are a few must-see locations in Laos that can be part of both a quick tour or a longer visit.

Most first-time visitors enter through Vientiane – and it’s a great place to start. Expect an eclectic mix of French and Asian architecture, as well as grand monuments. The temple of Wat Si Muang draws in locals from across the Southeast Asian subcontinent in search of good luck and blessings.

Nearby, beautiful Vang Vieng is a classic stop-off point for those with some time on the way to Luang Prabang – though many will tell you that Luang Prabang and Luang Namtha both offer better views, more lagoons and cheaper prices.

Looking east, the limestone karsts of Khammouane province tower over the landscape (and are best admired on a bike around the Tha Khaek Loop). Belowground, one of the world’s longest navigable river cave systems stretches 7.5km (4.5 miles) from mouth to exit, and is best explored by boat.

If you enter from the south via Thailand or across the Vietnamese or Cambodian borders, your best bet is to settle down in Pakse to explore the surrounding natural wonders. The Bolaven Plateau has an intriguing history: it’s been both a center of coffee production and a target for blanket bombing during the Vietnam War. Today, it’s perhaps best known for its towering waterfalls.

Further south is Si Phan Don, where the Mekong river creates an inland archipelago of river islands with powerful and beautiful waterways. For something more cultural, the nearby small town of Champasak is a laid back stop-off as stunning as it is rich in history. The main attraction here is the sacred Wat Phu, an Angkorian ruin that dates back to the 11th century, hidden in the jungle like something from an adventure novel.

My favorite thing to do in Laos

There’s nothing better than getting on two wheels and exploring on my own terms. Even though communication can be tough in the middle of nowhere when you need to fill up your gas tank, the natural beauty and unscripted opportunities you’ll find in the countryside – say, lunch with some elderly grandmas, or an impromptu tour of a hidden cave – more than make up for the lack of tourist conveniences.

Rent a bike from the border town of Tha Khaek and head east along Rte 12 toward Vietnam. Within minutes you’ll be greeted by towering limestone karsts that just keep getting more impressive the further you drive. (Just be sure to keep your eyes on the road, as it can be a real challenge with so much to see!)

Following the loop with a left turn onto route E1 brings you to the mountainous hangout of Thalang, perfect for spending the night before you follow the same road up and around toward Lak Sao. By this point your derriere may be a little sore – but don’t give up now. The detour to Kong Lor Cave is well worth the extra hours in the saddle, with Hitchcock shot–style visuals as you drive between two towering cliff faces and the villages below.

For many, travel is about the destination. In Laos, the journey itself often brings more wonder.

How much money do I need for Laos?

In Laos, having cash on you is very important. You shouldn’t expect credit-card readers even in larger shops, gas stations and convenience stores, and ATMs are far and few between.

Since the Lao kip is quite unstable and highly inflated, vendors tend to accept both the Thai baht and US dollar (though change will be rendered in kip). Still, a recent movement to reject this practice and thus stabilize the national currency means that a growing number of vendors will only be paid in kip. Most banks will change foreign currency into kip for the official daily rate, and ATMs provide on-screen conversions before spitting out just the right combination of kip notes.

• Air-conditioned hotel room: 300,000 to 1,000,000 LAK

• Hostel room with fan: 100,000 LAK

• City tuk-tuk ride: 50,000 to 200,000 LAK

• Bus ticket between cities: 300,000 LAK

• Liter of gas: 34,000 LAK

• Admission fees to tourist attractions: 20,000 to 50,000 LAK

• Bowl of noodles: 30,000 LAK

• Bottle of water: 5,000 LAK

• Bottle of Beerlao: 10,000 LAK

Do I need a visa for Laos?

ASEAN citizens do not need a visa to visit Laos, nor do citizens from Japan, South Korea, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Russia and Mongolia – granting them free entry to the country for between 15 to 30 days.

Citizens of most other countries require a visa for entry. We recommend obtaining this on arrival at most border posts and at any international airport; expect to pay US$30-45 (depending on nationality), in dollars, baht or kip. (The government of Laos has an e-visa web portal, but it’s often broken or inactive.) When you arrive in Laos, avoid third-party agents and touts and make your way to the immigration booth. You’ll need to fill out a few forms and provide a passport photo (you can pay an extra fee if you don’t have one with you) – which gets you a full-page visa sticker in your passport granting you 30 days of travel within the country.

Frequently asked questions about Laos

What are accommodations like in Laos?

Generally, accommodation is cheap and of a lower standard compared to Vietnam or Thailand – though quality tends to increase in tandem with price. Most rooms in cities and at resorts will have a private bathroom with some form of hot water. In rural locations, homestays or farmstays, you should expect the bare minimum. (It’s part of the experience, after all!)

Is it easy to book activities and hotels in Laos in advance?

Yes and no. Hotels are best booked through reputable third-party sites like Agoda or Booking.com, whereas activities are harder to sort out in advance. This is both due to a lack of digital fluency in the country and a more local approach to tourism in general.

We recommend doing a bit of advance planning through hotels and travel agents as best as you can, then sorting out the remaining details once you arrive in the country.

What’s the food like in Laos?

Lao cuisine isn’t unlike that of northeastern Thailand (Isan food). Dishes tend to be less spicy and more savory than in Thailand. Imagine a marriage of flavors between Thai, Vietnamese and Chinese cuisines.

Staples of Lao cuisine include sticky rice, minced-meat salads, fermented fish paste and pho noodles. Given the cost of protein, dishes often contain less beef, goat and pork and more rice and vegetables. This also means vegetarian options are easier to come by – if, that is, you’re not fazed by a splash of fish sauce here and there.

Is Laos suitable for kids?

Absolutely! Though that depends, of course, on how you like to travel. If you’re carrying a lot of baggage and worry about diet, dirt and bugs, Laos may be challenging. But if you’re happy to see your kids running around with chickens, playing in the mud or just enjoying life as the locals do, then you’ll be fine.

Laos is a very welcoming country and its people love children. Even in small villages, you’re likely to see playgrounds, bouncy castles and even fair rides set up year-round to keep kids entertained.

How safe is Laos?

Generally, quite safe. In the cities and rural areas, people are typically kind, helpful and trustworthy. Still, as anywhere, it’s important to stay aware and vigilant. Avoid flaunting your wealth, as pickpocketing can occur, especially at markets. Know that locals are usually quick to call out any suspicious activity, so you’re almost always around helpful people who have your back.

Keep in mind that few countries maintain embassies in Laos. This can make renewing a lost passport or finding your way back to a neighboring country a bit more complicated and time-consuming.

Can I use my phone or should I buy a SIM card in Laos?

Roaming works well in Laos and is relatively cheap for most carriers. If you prefer to use a Lao SIM card, they are cheap and can be easily acquired from booths at any port of entry, or at most convenience stores. Most Lao tour guides, taxi drivers and people in general use WhatsApp or WeChat to communicate.

Do I need insurance for Laos?

Yes. Since Laos’ health infrastructure is poor and medical treatment might involve a transfer to Vientiane or even Thailand, costs can quickly skyrocket for serious illnesses or emergencies. Don’t travel here uncovered.

What’s Lao coffee like?

It’s great. Always go for the freshly roasted beans.

Senior Director of Content Laura Motta loves the American West for its intense beauty, endless layers of human and natural history, and its full-on sense of weirdness. She took a road trip from Las Vegas to Great Basin National Park. Here’s what she encountered on the way.

Day 1: Route 93 to Ely

Take a look around

As you drive north out of Las Vegas along US Rte 93, the Great Basin Highway, the flat desert falls away and the mountains rise up on either side. They are green, then craggy brown, then blue-gray in the distance. This is America at its most expansive and mind-bogglingly beautiful, and the view out your car windows is as much your “destination” as anything else you’ll see on this trip.

See if the truth is out there

Two hours north of Las Vegas, Rte 93 intersects with Rte 375 — a desolate stretch of road known as the Extraterrestrial Highway. This is as close as you’ll get to Area 51, the highly classified US Air Force base that spawned persistent conspiracy theories and rumors of alien research. Knowing visitors are forbidden, I made a quick stop in the town of Hiko instead to visit some quirky and definitely unclassified sites that capture the area’s kitsch factor. E.T. Fresh Jerky is a gift shop that specializes in “alien” (actually beef) jerky. It makes a good snack for the drive. Plus, there are some fun, photo-ready items in the parking lot (a giant “crashed” space ship, a mural of otherworldly creatures). Just up the road, another gift shop called the Alien Research Center is where you’ll find shot glasses, t-shirts and stickers adorned with little green men.

Fuel up

Stretch your legs and grab lunch or a snack in the town of Caliente. I had a quesadilla at Knotty Pine, where you can enjoy the vintage vibes and play slot machines in the bar. You should also get gas in town, so take the opportunity to fuel up even if your tank isn’t empty.

Worship at nature’s cathedral

Just past Caliente on Rte 93, you’ll reach Cathedral Gorge State Park. This dramatic canyon, formed by eroded rock and clay, looks like a giant melting layer cake. It has some easy trails near the park entrance that can be completed in less than hour. Note that the park requires advance reservations for entry at peak times.

Hit the hay

By the time you reach the town of Ely, you will have earned a rest. I stayed at the Motel 6 (spotless, with especially welcoming staff) and the historic Hotel Nevada (Old West vibes, lots of taxidermy in the lobby).

Day 2: Great Basin National Park

Get to know the park

Drive about an hour west of Ely to reach Great Basin National Park, which is known for snow-capped peaks and an intricate cave system. There are also groves of rare, twisty limbed bristlecone pines, some of which are thought to be more than 5000 years old.

Go spelunking

Start your morning by descending into Lehman Caves, the park’s central attraction and a must-see on any visit. The caves are classified as their own national monument and have their own parking lot and visitors center within the wider national park. Book a tour with a park ranger (30, 60 or 90 minutes, prices vary) to see enormous stalagmites and stalactites, underground lakes and the few living organisms that call the cave home.

Take a hike (or two)

After you see the caves, hop back in your car and drive the winding uphill road – an experience unto itself – toward Wheeler Peak. I parked in the lot well before the summit and set out from there on foot. There are trailheads here that lead to a few different, equally awe-inspiring sights, including the bristlecone pine groves and Nevada’s last glacier. I chose the Alpine Lakes Loop, a relatively flat trail that leads to the sparkling lakes Teresa and Stella. On the way, I crunched my way through light snow cover, snapped too many photos of soaring Wheeler Peak and enjoyed the crisp air. A good option is to try one trail earlier in the day, drive back to Lehman Caves for a quick lunch in the visitors center, and then pick another one to do in the afternoon. A word of caution, however: Some of these trails are labeled “easy,” but the park’s elevation adds a level of difficulty. Bring enough water, wear layers and pace yourself.

Day 3: In and around Ely

Soak up some Nevada nostalgia

Copper mining and a prime location along Nevada’s Pony Express route — these are the things that built the town of Ely. The town is a good base for exploring Great Basin National Park, but it also allows easy access to a few other whimsical, slightly strange sights that make a fun add-on to a national park trip.

Make it malted

Pull up a vintage red-and-chrome seat at the soda fountain at Economy Drug, which opened for business in 1946. Excellent sandwiches and vintage-style sodas are menu standouts, but you can also order malts, milkshakes and ice cream. And of course, if you run out of toothpaste or sunblock, you can get it here, too. True to its name, Economy Drug remains a working pharmacy.

Ride the rails

It’s hard to find a more charming spot in Ely than its impeccably preserved train station, which is part of the Nevada Northern Railway. Not only does this organization maintain the station and all of its adjacent buildings, it also preserves and runs a collection of vintage locomotives and train cars. Book a trip on one of them to go stargazing in the desert, view a fireworks display, learn about geology or sip champagne. Programming rotates and is oriented to the season. You can also tour the station itself.

Search for treasure

Garnet Hill is a designated “rockhounding” area, or a place that’s open to the public for geological treasure hunting. Drive up the steep dirt road as far as you can go, park, and then walk up the hill about 20 minutes to reach the best hunting spots. The hill is named for the dark red gems that are common in the area, but you’re more likely to find other kinds of wonders close to the surface — namely, bits of petrified wood and fossils. I found a fragment of a trilobite — a prehistoric marine animal that would have lived on this spot more than 250 million years ago — and burst into tears at the wonder of it.

See what’s left of a mining boom

Just off of Rte 50, about 30 minutes from Ely, you’ll find one of the oddest, and most oddly enchanting, sites in the area. The Ward Charcoal Ovens, each one standing more than 30ft tall in a vast tract of open desert, were where charcoal was made for the smelting of silver in the 1800s. The nearby mining town would be wrecked by flood and fire by the close of the 19th century, but the stone ovens remain. You can even dart inside them to get a closer look at their open, beehive like design.

Day 4: Las Vegas

Get back to Sin City

If you drove up to Ely via Rte 93, you can take an alternate road, Rte 318, back to Vegas. It affords different views of the mountains and saves about 30 minutes of driving. On my last night in Nevada, I opted for a few simple Las Vegas pleasures — a terrifying museum and a perfect martini. I started at the Atomic Museum, which unflinchingly charts the history of atomic energy and weaponry. For more than 40 years starting in the 1950s, the area north of Las Vegas was America’s official nuclear testing site. (In the 1950s, postcards showed an illustration of a Vegas showgirl wearing a mushroom cloud as a costume.)

Exhibits go deep on technology and history, but also examine the ethics of nuclear war, and even of the testing site itself. That evening, I headed to Delilah for a drink — and I definitely needed one. This supper club-slash-nightclub has live big-band-style music, simple food that hits the spot (the chicken fingers are a favorite) and impeccable cocktails, all in an atmosphere that feels like a throwback to gilded Rat Pack-era Las Vegas. This is the one spot on your trip where you’ll be asked to put away your cell phone and just enjoy — and it’s so good that you won’t mind.

Laura traveled to Nevada courtesy of Travel Nevada. Lonely Planet does not accept free travel in exchange for positive coverage.

Related:

• Hiking Great Basin National Park

• 6 of the best road trips in Nevada

• 8 best road trips from Las Vegas

Take a look at any topographical map of Ecuador and you’ll immediately notice the Andean spine that cuts through the country from north to south. It’s these mountains and volcanoes that offer the most scope for adventure, and it’s where travelers often head first for the best hikes in Ecuador.

For trekkers and serious climbers alike, the high sierra is packed with paths that climb their way up to high altitude. Others wind across lower elevations, through and around alpine scenery.

There are trails for all levels of fitness, and while hiking and climbing are possible throughout much of the year, the most popular seasons are November to February and June to August. Book with a guide if you want to climb higher, trek solo or travel off season.

Situated on the equator where adjacent tectonic plates have forced the ground upward, Ecuador’s Avenue of the Volcanoes is, quite rightly, one of its top draws and best places for trekking in the high country. The route from Quito to Cuenca passes through breathtaking scenery, where snow-tipped, perfectly conical or rugged mountains punctuate the sky.

The Central Highlands are dotted with pueblos rich in Indigenous Andean heritage, and hiking is also a perfect way to immerse yourself in the culture here.

Walking at altitude brings you to water-filled calderas surrounded by grasses and flowers, and guides can help you descend further into canyons, or upward to secluded lodges and eco-retreats that sit above the cloud line, offering a condor’s eye view of the valleys below.

Here are our picks for the six best hikes in Ecuador.

Cotopaxi National Park

Best hike for nature and wildlife

2.2 miles (3.5km); 2 hours; easy

The second-highest peak in Ecuador (19,347ft) and one of the world’s highest active volcanoes, Volcán Cotopaxi offers a serious guided climb for those with the motivation to walk for two days to see the views from the summit.

For others who prefer to stay closer to the base, the 83,000-acre Parque Nacional Cotopaxi’s trails provide a benign, grassy natural sanctuary, with the volcano’s peak as stunning backdrop and central focal point.

Walk around Lake Limpiopungo if you only have a couple of hours to spare – it’s flat, and the gentle terrain will suit all fitness levels. There’s nature in abundance here, from white-tailed deer to Andean fox (or colpeo) roaming the grasslands. The keen-eyed traveler may see soaring condors or even the rare spectacled bear on the volcano’s eastern slopes.

Try horseback riding and stay at one of the park’s traditional haciendas, taking a guided trek to find out more about the flora, fauna and geology of this most beautiful of national parks, arguably Ecuador’s best.

Chimborazo

Best high-altitude hike

23.9 miles (38.4km); 2–3 days; difficult

Heading south to Riobamba, there’s no escaping the shadow of Chimborazo, Ecuador’s highest peak and a staggeringly monumental structure.

Allow time in the area to take the Devil’s Nose, a marvelous feat of railway engineering where the track follows a series of switchbacks as the train cuts its way down and through the Andes. Passing villages en route, you’ll also be greeted with a brilliant view of Chimborazo from the windows early on.

If you’ve become acclimatized to Ecuador’s altitude, you may want to add an ascent of Chimborazo to your itinerary, but only if you’re ready for a challenge. At around 20,700ft, the equatorial summit is the closest point to the sun on Earth, and it’s covered in glacial ice that requires you to hire a certified guide, donning crampons and other serious kit.

Be prepared for an evening at a high-altitude refugio before the final ascent. Preparation and a high level of fitness are absolutely vital for the climb.

Day-trekkers and mountain bikers will love the Reserva de Producción de Fauna Chimborazo, a natural habitat for vicuña, llama and alpaca, with any number of shorter trails out of the park.

From Riobamba, take in nearby views of Altar and Tungurahua volcanoes, Parque Nacional Sangay or Colta Lagoon, the latter of which has some of the loveliest reflections of Chimborazo for those keen on photography or quiet contemplation during a gentle stroll.

The Quilotoa Loop

Best hike for highland culture

25 miles (40km); 3–5 days; moderate

One of Ecuador’s most beautiful locations, the scenic Quilotoa crater can be trekked to, through or around, according to your energy levels or available time. Stay overnight at one of the area’s eco-lodges, then enjoy a leisurely ramble to the lookout points or a more strenuous hike down to the lakeshore the next day.

However you get there, the crater rim is probably best selfie spot in all of Ecuador, as teal and emerald water, rugged rock and atmospheric low clouds compete for attention in the background.

The longer Quilotoa Loop takes up to five days and allows for a real dive into local villages and highland culture, where you can pick up phrases in the local Kichwa language as you pass by villages and rainforest vegetation.

A number of markets take place on the loop, from Zumbahua on Saturday to Saquisilí on Thursday. Indigenous markets are one of the highlights of any visit to the Ecuadorian Andes, so be sure to plan your itinerary around them.

Everything is accessible with local transport, and it’s definitely worth spending a few days in the region to explore on foot. Tour operators in Quito can take the pain out of organizing every step of your own schedule.

Lake Cuicocha

Best day hike

7.5 miles (12km); 4–5 hours; easy

If you’re headed to the colorful market town of Otavalo, one of the Andes’ most important Indigenous trading places, Lake Cuicocha is an easy add-on day hike. This flooded, extinct volcano is surrounded by vegetation, making for a beautiful four- or five-hour walk around the rim.

Two small lava islands poke their way out of the center of the laguna, their mounds resembling the guinea pigs from which the lake gets its Kichwa name.

Since Cuicocha Lake is one of the lesser-known caldera hikes in Ecuador (losing out to the more renowned Quilotoa), you’ll surely encounter fewer people on the trail and really get to experience the serenity of nature as you stroll.

The Otavalo area has much to offer, should you choose to base yourself there. The impressive 59ft Peguche waterfalls, enhanced by the wall of lush vegetation that covers the surrounding rock face, are easily reached by foot or bike from Otavalo.

What’s more, an Indigenous water-purification ceremony takes place at the site during the sun festival of Inti Raymi in June, when visitors are welcome. Check in with the local tourist office for details.

Ingapirca and the Inca Trail

Best multi-day hike

25 miles (40km); 3 days; moderate-to-difficult

The Ecuadorian section of the Inca Trail that once connected Quito with Cusco is less known than the Peruvian path to Machu Picchu, yet certainly worth a visit. The hike takes three days total; though much of Ecuador’s royal road was destroyed by Spanish conquistadors, you can see the impressive remains of the Temple of the Sun at Ingapirca.

Reaching a maximum elevation of 13,800ft, the Ecuadorian Inca Trail matches the highest point on the Peruvian section (at Dead Woman’s Pass). The journey to Ingapirca sweeps through cloud-height peaks with views of canyons, lagoons and mountainous scenery.

Take a hiking tour with a local guide and hear the stories of the Inca, as well as the later Indigenous groups’ struggles for independence from their colonial overlords.

Condor Trek

Best trek in Ecuador

31.5 miles (51km); 5 days; difficult

Renowned as one of the best treks in Ecuador, the Trek of the Condor has been called out on a National Geographic roundup of world-wide bucket list adventures. It’s not for the faint of heart, as the five-day trail passes 10,000ft of altitude in many places, often in cold and intense weather.

However, it’s not a very technical mountain climb, making it accessible to those who’ve acclimatized and gained a level of fitness through previous training. Walk amid Indigenous pueblos and see wildlife grazing on the páramo (grassland).

Starting the trip from Papallacta means you can soak your muscles in one of the many beautiful outdoor thermal pools as you prepare your legs for the intense but worthwhile pounding to come.

One of the best ways to discover Germany is by bike. Whether zipping around a new city, zooming along a river, winding through vineyards or circling a lake, every route offers an alternative vantage point from which to see the country.

While some trails might take a few hours to complete, others can take days, even weeks, crossing diverse landscapes and maybe even different federal states. Along the way, you’ll find fantastic guest houses and great places to eat, scenic spots to take a break, and plenty of locals following the same routes. So grab your wheels and hit the road, starting with some of our suggestions below.

1. The Berlin Wall Trail (Berliner Mauerweg)

Best for history
163km (101 miles); easy

This trail in the German capital traces the former GDR border fortifications around West Berlin. Open since 2006, the easy-to-follow route mainly sticks to old patrol and border control roads, with regular signposts and maps to help you stay on track. There are also photographs and information signs at a number of points, detailing life in the divided city. At times, you’ll be highly aware of the history and significance of the journey; at others you’ll completely forget and be more focused on the nature that has returned.

Broken up into 14 sections, the route can be done in a day, or bit by bit, with good public transport links helping you dip in and out – just remember to also pay for your bike when buying a ticket. Alternatively, you can stay in the center and join a shorter bike tour along the inner-city section with a guide.

2. German Wine Cycle Route

Best for reliable weather
97km (60 miles); moderate to difficult

Starting in Bockenheim and ending in Schweigen-Rechtenbach on the French border, the popular German Wine Route runs through the heart of the Palatinate (Pfalz), one of Germany’s largest wine-growing regions. Here you’ll find vine-covered hillsides, rambling forests, picturesque hamlets and exceptional wine estates, as well as local almonds, figs and lemons thanks to the moderate climate.

The sunny weather, along with the bike-friendly infrastructure, make it easy to plan a trip here. Pop into a tourist office for various cycling maps and details on bike rentals, and be sure to plan the occasional stop at a winery or an end-of-day drink in a local tavern.

For more wine-focused routes, try the Baden Wine Cycle Route in the south west, or the Moselle Cycle Path that takes you to some of the country’s oldest and most famous wine towns.

3. 100 Castles Route (100-Schlösser-Route)

Best for… castles!
960km (597 miles); easy to moderate

Meandering through the Münsterland region in the state of Nordrhein-Westfalen, these four interconnecting circuits encompass a dense collection of castles, gardens, fortresses and moated estates, in a mix of Baroque, Renaissance and Gothic styles.

The loops are divided into north, south, east and west. Try the southern one (210km/130 miles) for the shortest option or the northern one (305km/190 miles) for the higher terrain of the Tecklenburger Land area. Shorter day routes are possible too, starting at around 22km (14 miles). Also don’t miss the city of Münster, itself a cycling hub with a car-free ring around the center and a well-developed network of bike lanes.

4. Hessen Railway Cycle Route (BahnRadweg Hessen)

Best for a round trip
245km (152 miles); easy to moderate

As the name suggests, this long-distance option follows disused railway lines in the state of Hessen. The route starts in Hanau, the birthplace of the Brothers Grimm, and ends in Bad Hersfeld, with additional paths making it possible to organize a round trip. You’ll pass impressive castles and monastery ruins, attractive towns, such as Lauterbach and Fulda, and the picturesque low mountain ranges of Vogelsberg and Rhön.

Thanks to gentle railway inclines and tarmac surfaces, the route is rarely strenuous. Look out for iron bridges, old train carriages and tunnels: on a stretch known as the Milseburgradweg, you’ll need to trust that the motion-sensor-controlled lights will come on as you head into a kilometer of darkness!

5. Elbe Cycle Route (Elberadweg)

Best for city stops
1270km (789 miles); easy to moderate

The Elbe Cycle Route covers almost 1300km and the entire length of Germany’s second-longest river. It is also one of the most-loved routes in the country according to the General German Bicycle Club (ADFC).

While the route (and the river) actually starts in Czechia, it crosses the German border close to Schöna before heading to the striking rock formations in Saxon Switzerland. From here, it’s around 40km (25 miles) to the beautifully restored city of Dresden with its Frauenkirche and Renaissance city palace. Keep going for more towns and cities, such Magdeburg, Dessau and Hamburg further north. The final destination is Cuxhaven, where the Elbe flows into the North Sea.

Due to its length, the Elbe cycle route can take around two weeks to cover in its entirety and longer if you want to make stops. As a result, many people choose to focus on certain sections, such as Dresden to Hamburg, or even Prague to Dresden. There are a number of tour companies that can book your accommodations and organize luggage transfer between stops.

6. Chiemsee Bike Route (Chiemsee Radweg)

Best of Bavaria
52km (32 miles); easy to moderate

With views of the water, the alpine foothills and high peaks beyond, this route around Bavaria’s largest lake is a must for exploring more of Germany’s southern state. Start in Übersee, reachable by train from Munich, and go either way around the shores – watching out for pedestrians who share the route. It shouldn’t take longer than half a day to complete.

You’ll see lots of places to stop for a swim and pass the main boat departure area with options to reach the islands. There are bike services and rental options in most towns along the route.

7. Baltic Sea Cycle Route (Ostseeküsten-Radweg)

Best for families
1140km (708 miles); easy

Running between Flensburg near the Danish border and Ahlbeck on the Polish border, the German section of this coastal route tops the states of Schleswig-Holstein and Mecklenburg Western-Pomerania. Come for sand, sea, rugged coastlines and changeable weather.

Highlights include the cliffs in Rügen, the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Wismar and Stralsund, and the city of Lübeck, known for its distinctive brick architecture and marvelous marzipan. The route is pretty flat, with plenty of options for beach breaks, making it a great option for all abilities and ages. Some people split the trip into two parts using Lübeck as the division. Alternatively, you could extend the trip by carrying on into the neighboring countries.

8. The Industrial Heritage Route (Die Route der Industriekultur per Rad)

Best for unusual architecture
700km (435 miles); easy to moderate

Germany’s Industrial Heritage Route links sites connected to the history and culture of the Ruhr region, once a major center for coal mining and steel production. Here structures such as blast furnaces and gasometers still stand, but many are now used as cultural venues, sports centers or parks. One of the best ways to visit the different spots and take in the whole landscape is by bike, with hundreds of kilometers of trails covering the area.

The two main routes are the Emscher Park Cycle Path (Emscher Park Radweg) and the Ruhr Area Circuit (Rundkurs Ruhrgebiet). The latter is almost 300km-long (186 miles) and passes steel mills, collieries and workers’ settlements, as well as some of the biggest sites in the area: UNESCO World Heritage Site Zeche Zollverein and the Gasometer Oberhausen. Paths connecting these two routes also allow you to create shorter circuits.

September is a superb time to hit the road. The great shoulder season of travel offers prime conditions for exploring a vast array of big-name destinations for food and drink, culture, relaxation or simply an incredible journey. So whether you want to laze on uncrowded Mediterranean sands, venture through South American rainforests or explore incredible culture in Central Asia, September has something to suit every type of explorer.

Where are the best places to travel to in September for relaxation?

Isle Royale, Michigan, USA

Why now? To get well and truly away from everyone.

Isle Royale, in Michigan, is the least-visited national park in the lower 48. It’s closed completely for almost half the year and, when it does open, is only accessible via floatplane or non-car ferry, exclusively attracting those keen for a wilderness immersion by boat, kayak or on foot. It’s well worth the effort, though.

The park is a wetland wonderland, comprising one large, forest-swathed island and some 450 smaller ones, jutting into Lake Superior; an International Biosphere Reserve, it’s the realm of otters, moose and wolves, herons, hawks and loons. September is less busy and less buggy than peak summer, but still warm enough to paddle, trek and wild camp. There are 272km (169 miles) of trails to explore – experienced hikers will lust after the tough 150km (93-mile) Wonderland Trail. Kayakers can explore the eastern shore’s inland lakes and fjord-like bays – Malone Bay to McCargoe Cove makes a good multi-day adventure.

Utah’s mighty five are also incredible in September if you’re looking for a big nature road trip.

Southwest Turkey

Why now? For a final summer fling.

As summer segues into fall, what could be more alluring than a last shot of sunshine on the tantalizingly named Turquoise Coast? Turkey’s Mediterranean shore is much quieter now that the school holidays have ended – but the water is still balmy, the air still warm and the historic sites – of which there are many to lure you off your lounger – are still open.

Where you head depends on your taste. Lagoon-side Ölüdeniz is the top choice for paragliding. At Patara, combine endless-seeming swathes of golden sand with a hint of Christmas: this was the birthplace of St Nicholas (aka Santa). Or head for sleepy Çıralı, a protected area where sea turtles nest – from mid-September you might see the hatchlings emerge. To really get away from it all, opt for the stretch of coast east of Alanya. Once the refuge of pirates, few foreign tourists make it here. The seaside resort of Kızkalesi has an authentically Turkish feel plus fine beaches, caves to explore and an imposing 12th-century castle, floating out at sea.

Where are the best places to travel to in September for wildlife and nature?

Namibia

Why now? For great game.

Desert-dominated Namibia is a pretty arid place at the best of times. And September is the best of times – at least if you’ve come looking for the country’s big game. Temperatures are on the up this month (making early safari wake-up calls less chilly), but there likely hasn’t been a drop of rain for months, meaning thin vegetation and wildlife congregating at an ever-decreasing number of water sources. Spotting everything from elephants to the long-nosed elephant shrew, from cheetahs to rare black rhinos becomes a doddle in these conditions – especially in game-packed areas such as Etosha National Park. You don’t even need a guide: Etosha’s excellent road network makes a self-drive safari simple; just park next to a waterhole and wait for the wildlife to arrive.

Guyana

Why now? Admire roaring waterfalls and rainforest wildlife.

Guyana is an extraordinary land, where turtles nest on shell beaches, jaguars stalk the rainforest, giant otters frolic and huge harpy eagles soar over thundering waterfalls. Its climate is also extraordinary, with multiple rainy seasons hitting the coast and interior at different times. September is a junction month, when most of the country is dry after the heavy rains, making road travel easier and life more comfortable in general, but with jungles at their lushest.

The big-ticket attraction is Kaieteur Falls, which plummets 226m (741ft) in a single drop into the depths of the rainforest. Add to that the canopy walkway and wildlife of Iwokrama, ecolodges offering encounters with Makushi Indigenous peoples, the otters of the Rupununi and the cowboys of vast Dadanawa Ranch, and you have an epic adventure in the making. Start planning your trip with this first-time guide to Guyana.

Where are the best places to travel to in September for culture?

Dublin, Ireland

Why now? Get a taste of the city on the Liffey in the mellowest season.

Dublin in September, often the sunniest month, sees a diminishing number of tourists after the crowds of July and August have dispersed. This city is many things to many people. Yes, you’ll find lively pubs (and they deserve detailed examination), historic marvels, humor and national pride – but Dublin is also a cultural powerhouse, boasting magnificent galleries and museums, notably Dublin Castle’s Chester Beatty Library, one of Europe’s finest. During September, too, the Irish capital welcomes hundreds of arts performances during the fortnight-long Dublin Fringe Festival.

Altai Mountains, Mongolia

Why now? Learn about the skills and lifestyles of traditional eagle hunters.

In the breathless Altai Mountains at the very center of the Asian landmass, four borders converge – this is where Russia, China, Kazakhstan and Mongolia lean in towards one another. And among those peaks in western Mongolia, Kazakh nomads maintain the ancient tradition of hunting with golden eagles – a legacy celebrated during festivals in Altai, Ülgii and Sagsai in September and October each year, when eagle hunters don customary garb and display their prowess with the majestic raptors.

This pleasantly cool, dry season is also ideal for exploring the mountains of Altai Tavan Bogd National Park, hiking between waterfalls, ancient petroglyphs and glistening lakes – trek with Bactrian camels or ride Mongolian horses for extra authenticity, bedding down in gers (yurts) as local peoples have for millennia. During the festivals, dozens of hunters clad in animal skins, with huge fur-lined hats and colorfully embroidered clothes, demonstrate their skills between bouts of wrestling, archery contests, camel races and boisterous horseback goatskin tug-o-war.

Where are the best places to travel to in September for food and drink?

Nova Scotia, Canada

Why now? To fill up in fall.

The start of the season of mellow fruitfulness is ideal for taking a foodie tour around Nova Scotia, the most delicious of the Maritimes. First, seek out succulent seafood: try scallops from the Bay of Fundy (where over-summering whales may still be spotted), eat a lobster roll by the beach (head to Barrington, “Lobster Capital of Canada”) and slurp an oyster or two, perhaps at the Halifax Oyster Festival (held late September).

Then, as the harvest gets underway, sample local wines. Boutique vineyards pepper the province, from the Annapolis Valley’s Domaine de Grand Pré, the granddaddy of Nova Scotian wine (open daily June–September), to Benjamin Bridge, which produces acclaimed fizz in the Gaspereau Valley. And don’t forget the fruit: this month brings gluts of blueberries and apples, which find their way into delicious pies province-wide. Here are our 11 favorite places to visit in Nova Scotia to eat and play.

Burgundy, France

Why now? For a delicious drop.

The Route des Grands Crus (the “road of great wines”) cuts through Burgundy’s most acclaimed grape-growing country. Running 60km (38 miles) from Dijon and Beaune to Santenay, it’s a most intoxicating byway, flanked by 38 winsome villages and almost 1250 climats – the region’s precisely demarcated vineyard plots, each with a unique terroir.

Tiny Domaine de la Romanée-Conti, from where the world’s most expensive reds hail, is here. In September, you might catch the harvest in progress. And, with average highs of 20°C (68°F), it will be warm enough to use the hiking and biking trails that weave between wineries or to happily sit outside a pavement cafe sipping a Côte de Nuits pinot noir or buttery chardonnay. Consider basing yourself in beautiful Beaune, home to the spectacular Hôtel-Dieu (venue of the annual, all-important Burgundy wine auction), numerous wine merchants’ houses and cellar doors, and many Michelin-starred restaurants.

Where are the best places to travel to in September for adventure?

Red Sea, Jordan

Why now? To dive into delectable waters.

As the stifling heat of the Jordanian summer begins to drop, things really heat up along the Red Sea coast. September and October are among the best months to dive here, with the air temperature hot but bearable, and the oh-so-clear water around a balmy 26°C (79°F) and jam-packed with activity: look out for eagle rays, moray eels, seahorses, turtles, lionfish and an array of other colorful fishes – over 510 species have been recorded.

There are 30-plus dive sites along the Aqaba coast, most close to shore and many good for snorkeling, too. These range from shallow coral gardens and gaping canyons to shipwrecks, including that of the Cedar Pride, which sits at a depth of just 7–25m (23–82ft). Good-value learn-to-dive courses are available in Aqaba and resorts along the coast.

New Zealand

Why now? Enjoy ravishing views from the rails.

With snow still sprinkled on the mountain tops but lambs a-gamboling in the fields, spring-green September can be a month of natural splendor in Aotearoa, with few other tourists around. If you’re worried the weather might still be a little cool and unpredictable, opt to explore by Rail New Zealand’s scenic lines – that way you’ll be insulated from the chill, and free to gaze out the window as the countryside glides by.

Start aboard the Northern Explorer, which connects Auckland and Wellington via fertile farmland, Tongariro’s volcanoes and the Raurimu Spiral – an impressive feat of rail engineering. Take the ferry to the South Island and then pick up the Coastal Pacific to trace the shoreline from Picton to elegant Christchurch. Then join the Tranz Alpine to cross the Canterbury Plains and Southern Alps (via lofty Arthurs Pass) and finish at Greymouth, on the east coast.

Lonely Planet editor AnneMarie McCarthy recently returned from a jam-packed week in the Azores, exploring four different islands in 7 days.

As the lucky destination editor in charge of Lonely Planet’s Portugal coverage, I can tell you one thing with absolute certainty: you all love the Azores. Week after week, I see how readers like you are reading up on these green islands, which all your well-traveled friends are raving about.

When I got an invite from Visit Azores, I quickly packed up my rain jacket and sunscreen to check it out the archipelago for myself. Over the course of a week I visited the islands of São Miguel, Pico, Faial and Terceira, traveling between them mainly by plane but also by ferry.

What was the most touristy thing you did?

The most touristy activity I did was also my favorite: a dolphin- and whale-watching tour that set out from from Ponta Delgada on São Miguel. I’ve never had much luck with wildlife spotting, but since the Azores is one of the best places in the world for spotting cetaceans, I was optimistic. Between April and early July is an optimal time to set off, since the whales are on their annual migration and there are more species in the surrounding water. During nearly 3 hours at sea, we saw dolphins, orcas, sperm whales and pilot whales. All the whales kept their distance – but the dolphins got up close, chasing each other in front of the boat.

There are a limited number of companies in Azores with a license for this activity, and they all operate under strict “rules of engagement” – such as never approaching the animals from the front, and keeping a reasonable distance (the more vessels in the area, the further away they all have to be). None of this affects your chances of seeing them, however. I went with Futurismo, which offers two to three trips a day. The team is so confident you will have a successful sighting that if you happen to be unlucky, you can take a subsequent tour for free.

What was the handiest thing you packed?

My rain jacket. Although the sun did shine a lot, showers would blow through with little warning. The weather forecast on the islands is often not reliable – and when you’re spending so much time outside on hikes, you will want to be prepared for all eventualities. A lightweight, waterproof jacket will mean you can hike for hours without fear.

Yet no matter how well prepared you are, never hike off-trail, since you run the risk of damaging delicate endemic vegetation. What’s more, wild camping is not allowed anywhere on the islands. You’ll always be close to somewhere official to stay.

What’s your favorite photo from the trip and where was it taken?

This shot was taken at the bottom of a dormant volcano, Algar do Carvão. There are only three places in the world you can go inside one of these: Indonesia, Iceland and here, in the center of Terceira island. While you have to pass through a short tunnel to reach the interior, being inside doesn’t feel claustrophobic, as you can look up to the sky above.

You can also explore further into the caves to take in their cathedral-like spaces, all formed from volcanic stone. For something truly unique, occasional concerts take place here.

Best tip for someone who wants to plan the same trip?

Concentrate on fewer islands, or come for longer! Since the Azores lie in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, the temptation to island hop is strong, particularly in the summer, when travelers are less likely to be affected by poor weather and subsequent plane and ferry cancellations. I would recommend sticking with two islands that suit your travel style for each week you’re in the Azores. You could stretch this to three, depending on the size and proximity of the islands you fancy. (Pico is very small, for example, and is only an hour for Faial by ferry, making for a faster and more convenient trip than the plane.)

The Azores are all about the outdoors and good food – and every island has both in abundance. Almost everywhere you stay will be peaceful. Which is why you’ll get the most out of your visit here when you have time to relax and soak it all in.

Where did you stay? What was the vibe?

With a lot of island hopping came a lot of lovely hotels, all of which brought something different. In São Miguel, the nature-themed Senhora da Rosa was lovely, with an outdoor pool and rooms decor inspired by the local landscape. The on-site restaurant, Magma, provided a great last meal of my trip.

The rooms in Pico’s Aldeia da Fonte Hotel are in buildings made of volcanic rock – yet they somehow all reminded me of an American summer camp (at least, like I’ve seen on television). On the property is a sea walk, complete with a terrace to watch the waves and a ladder to get down into the cove to swim. It’s a great place to relax after a day of climbing Mt Pico.

Faial’s Hotel do Canal is right on the pier, making it perfect for exploring the bright, colorful murals left by sailors over the centuries. And it’s within view of the famous Peter Café Sport, where the lemon gin-and-tonic is never a bad idea.

Quinta da Nasce Água in Terceira is just a 10-minute walk from the historic center of Angra do Heroismo but feels like it’s in the countryside. The staff was incredibly welcoming here. (And, in fact, everywhere I stayed.)

Best thing you ate?

This one is too tough! I enjoyed incredible food all week, ranging from the very traditional to the inventive. This being Portugal, you can expect a meat-heavy menu – although I did have the best mushroom risotto of my life at Sensi Azores Hotel. It’s essential to try a cozido das Furnas, an array of meats arranged in a clay pot that gets buried, then cooked (and flavored) by the geothermal heat of volcanic activity. I watched the cozido pots getting collected from Furnas Lake – before tucking into mine at nearby institution Tony’s.

Other memorable meals were at Pico’s famous Cella Bar, where on a windy day I had wine, tapas and a view of Faial. Don’t leave Terceira without trying the island’s famous Dona Amélia, a sticky, spicy cake. (In fact, each island has its own signature pastry.) I’d also recommend Quinta do Martelo’s alcatra: a comfort stew cooked in a clay pot with wine, simmering long and slow until the meat practically melts.

Did I mention the food was good in the Azores?

AnneMarie McCarthy visited the Azores at the invitation of Visit Azores. Lonely Planet does not accept freebies for positive coverage.

How do you even begin to choose the best beach in the Philippines? With 7641 islands to choose from, you could throw a dart at a map and be confident of finding sandy shores and turquoise waters.

For decades, the Philippines has drawn travelers eager to trade skyscrapers for towering coconut trees. Sunseekers flock to islands such as Boracay, Bohol, Cebu and Coron, finding gleaming white beaches and vibrant dive sites just a short flight from Manila.

Reaching some of the best beaches involves inter-island flights, overland journeys and multiple sea crossings, but this is part of the charm of travel in the Philippines. Those willing to step off the beaten track will find blissfully uncrowded shores, year-round warm weather and an even warmer welcome from locals.

Whether it’s your first time in the Philippines or your fifteenth, here’s our pick of the best islands for beach lovers.

1. Palawan

Best beaches for adventurers

You can’t go wrong with big-hitter Palawan, with attractions neatly packaged into organized tours. Kayak into secret coves to find empty beaches bordered by rugged limestone cliffs at El Nido, then dive into the glassy waters of Kayangan Lake or snorkel over shipwrecks in Coron.

Gorgeous beaches abound. On the mainland, try Nacpan Beach, a 4km (2.5-mile) crescent-shaped strip of creamy golden sand framed by azure waters. On the northwest coast, San Vicente shelters the country’s longest white sand beach; you could clock up almost 20,000 steps strolling the entire 14km (9-mile) stretch of Long Beach, but you may be content to simply doze off in a hammock instead.

Detour: For the freedom to make up your itinerary on the fly, rent a motorcycle in Puerto Princesa for the trip to El Nido and back. Break the journey at Port Barton, where boat tours offer the chance to snorkel and swim with sea turtles. Head southwest from Puerto Princesa to reach Balabac at Palawan’s southernmost tip, where the pristine sands of Onok Island call out to thrillseekers with time and money to burn.

2. Boracay

Best for a group getaway

Backed by palm trees for 4km (2.5 miles), White Beach has long been one of Boracay’s top tourist draws. Air-conditioned hotel rooms, fast food joints and bars are just steps away from the sandy shore. Expect a flurry of activities, from dive trips to paddling on transparent kayaks, or sip on an icy-cold fruit shake or indulge in a soothing massage without straying from the sand. As the sinking sun blazes orange, pop into the Hue Hotel for a poolside cocktail or Los Indios Bravos for a craft beer, or board a paraw (outrigger boat) for a cruise; the sunsets are spectacular when viewed from the water.

Detour: To stretch your sea legs, rent a mountain bike and pedal to Mount Luho, the island’s highest point. Boracay is just 7km (4.3 miles) long, so you can loop the island in under three hours, passing rustic beaches such as Puka Beach and Bulabog Beach.

3. Cebu

Best for underwater enthusiasts

Easily accessible by air and sea, the island of Cebu offers a bustle of beaches, accommodations, activities and excellent dining. Sun worshippers make a beeline for the white sand beaches of Bantayan Island, Malapascua Island and Mactan Island, while colorful coral reefs teeming with sea turtles and other marine life add extra appeal for snorkelers and divers. For something out of the ordinary, head to Moalboal or Pescador Island, where spectacular sardine runs can be seen close to the surface year-round.

4. Bohol

Best for together time

Bohol is another effortless choice, with abundant lodging options and lots of fun activities to plug into your itinerary. Family-friendly resorts line lovely Alona Beach on Panglao Island, and there’s more picturesque white sand nearby on Dumaluan Beach. Bangka boats wait to whisk tourists offshore – on the islands of Pamilacan and Balicasag, you can bask on beautiful beaches and enjoy a spot of dolphin spotting and snorkeling on the side.

Anda on Bohol’s eastern edge offers a quieter getaway, with 3km (1.9 miles) of dazzling sand for undisturbed idling; the Amun Ini Beach Resort & Spa is a secluded spot for couples to cocoon.

Detour: For a change of scenery, head inland to visit Bohol’s Chocolate Hills and tarsier sanctuaries – always a hit with kids – then grab some fruity ice cream on the coast at Bohol Bee Farm.

5. Siargao

Best for surfers

Home to the world-famous Cloud 9 break, Siargao Island draws surfers across the globe. The vibe is lively yet laid-back, and beginners can take surf lessons near the town of General Luna, where hip cafes, social hubs and budget hostels are clustered. Some shops rent out customized motorbikes with racks so surfers can ferry their boards to secret breaks along the coconut-tree-lined coast, including postcard-perfect Pacifico Beach.

Boat tours to islets, rocky tidal pools and the spectacular Sugba Lagoon are easy to book online. Beyond the surf, digital nomads and sociable solo travelers are drawn to Siargao by the allure of slow island living and many end up staying longer than expected.

Detour: The dreamy beaches of the Dinagat Islands are accessible via a new sea route launched in April 2024. This underrated destination is rarely visited even by locals; get here from the village of Del Carmen on Siargao’s west coast.

6. Romblon

Best for intrepid explorers

If you prefer the sound of waves breaking on the shore to the buzz of conversation, you’ll love Romblon. Hours will stretch into days as you wander from one beach to another on this easygoing island. A short tricycle ride from Romblon’s main town is Bonbon Beach, a low-key spot with soft sand and calm waters. When the tide is low, you can walk along the sandbar to a nearby islet or watch youngsters frolic in the waves. Romblon’s coast is studded with immaculate islets, with water so clear you’d think it was AI-generated.

Detour: You’ll find more fine beaches on the neighboring islands of Tablas and Sibuyan. Test your castaway potential by taking a trip to Cresta de Gallo, a snaking sandbar off the coast of Sibuyan where you can enjoy sweet solitude surrounded by sparkling seas. Return to Sibuyan to hike up the jagged slopes of Mount Guiting Guiting, one of the country’s toughest climbs.

7. Batanes Islands

Best for photographers

The islands of Batan, Sabtang and Itbayat in Batanes province in the far north of the Philippines hide some incredible stretches of coastline, though you may spend more time snapping photos than swimming on these remote islands. Despite the compact size of each island, exploration takes longer and memory cards fill up faster with so much striking scenery to record.

The landscape of the Batanes islands is defined by rolling hills topped by lighthouses and rugged beaches covered with volcanic rocks. Leap over the boulders at Valugan Boulder Beach on Batan for dramatic shots, then head over to White Beach, south of Mahatao, for a safe dip on a pebble-sprinkled strip of sand.

Heading on from Batan, board a wooden faluwa boat at Basco for the bumpy crossing to Sabtang Island. After snapping shots of the island’s iconic stone houses, head to Morong Beach, dominated by a natural rock arch. This scenic seaside stop is ideal for swimming and the best place on the island to enjoy local specialties such as turmeric rice, uvud (banana heart meatballs) and dibang (flying fish).

8. Santa Cruz Island

Best for an eco-escape

Santa Cruz Island, just off the coast of Zamboanga on Mindanao, has one of the few beaches in the world with pink sand. Stroll along the shoreline and you’ll immediately notice its blushing hue – caused by crushed red organ pipe coral mingling with grains of white sand.

It’s a rewarding escape for environmentally-conscious travelers; yellow-painted fishing boats offer trips into thick mangrove forests, where you can gather edible seagrapes and spot stingless jellyfish. At the center of the island lies a calm and shallow lagoon dotted with vintas – traditional Zamboango fishing vessels with rainbow-striped sails. It’s a picturesque spot for paddling.

Detour: Northeast along the coast from Zamboanga City are the Onse Islas, a cluster of eleven small islands with fine sandy beaches. Swimming, kayaking and nature treks are the main draws in these community-managed islands, which remain blissfully free of commercial development.

With technology seemingly present in every aspect of life, it can feel almost impossible to truly unplug and relax. But there are still some sacred spots where you can escape the world and all its stresses – you just need to know where to look.

These are our favorite cabins and lodges scattered across the USA that allow you to unclench, reconnect with the natural world and recharge yourself, rather than your devices.

Before we dive into our list of off-the-grid vacations in the United States, let’s clarify what qualifies as off-the-grid. The term, off the grid, traditionally refers to not being connected to an electrical grid, but can also include utilities like water, gas and sewer systems, to name a few. They offer endless opportunities to rest, reconnect and recharge in nature, without the internet, cellphone service and social media. 

1. Kenai Fjords Wilderness Lodge, Alaska

Best for campers and hikers

Reaching this coastal lodge on Fox Island in Alaska requires a 12-mile boat ride from Seward. The eight-guest cabin property and its main lodge are located on an island just outside Kenai Fjords National Park and are situated in the woods between a pristine pebble beach and a quiet lagoon.

Relying on renewable energy as a power source (but backed up by propane generators), the cabins go without electrical outlets, TVs, radios or phones (don’t worry: emergency communication access is available in case of a serious issue). Guests can also hike, kayak and learn more about the area’s marine life from on-staff naturalists. The lodge is open from June to September. 

2. Osprey Cabin, Lake Metigoshe State Park, North Dakota

Best for adventurers used to roughing it

This backcountry cabin within a state park in northern North Dakota is accessible by one of two ways: a two-mile hike or a 1.5-mile canoe ride and short portage. Once you get there, you can expect throwback rural simplicity, making it one of the best off-the-grid vacations that’s open year-round. The property sleeps up to four with bunk-style beds. It includes a wood-burning stove, supplied wood to fuel it and a lantern with propane cylinders.

Now, here comes the hard part: along with no electricity or cell service, a vault toilet is available onsite, but drinkable water has to be packed in. Breathe in that clean country air on more than eight miles of trails open to hikers and mountain bikers and go swimming or boating within small lakes.

3. Glamping Getaway Goblin Valley Yurts, Utah

Best for night sky views

Within southern Utah’s Goblin Valley State Park, you’ll find two heated and cooled yurts that blend in with the park’s rock formations and look like they arrived from outer space. Available to reserve year-round, the tan-colored yurts contain just a porch, living area and a single bed bunked on a double bed and a futon.

You’ll need to pack a flashlight and candles, as the yurts lack electricity. Yet this certified Dark Sky park will keep you busy. Wander among its Valley of Goblins or go canyoneering down into Goblin’s Lair.

4. Taos Goji Eco-Lodge, New Mexico

Best for aspiring writers

Nestled in the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, miles outside of Taos, New Mexico, this eco-lodge will inspire you with its forest views and peaceful surroundings. These turn-of-the-century-built cabins hosted writers DH Lawrence and Aldous Huxley; the latter built an outhouse at the property that’s still intact.

Heat comes from wood-fired stoves; wi-fi can be spotty and cellular service can be little to none. Nonetheless, the property also introduces a bit of farm living by growing organic goji berries, fruits and vegetables, and raising free-range chickens, goats and alpacas.

5. Timberlock, New York

Best for summer camp nostalgia

This camp-style retreat in New York State’s Adirondacks region provides a nostalgic experience for those who fondly remember spending their summers away from home and time in the woods with new friends.

The family-owned retreat features rustic cabins ranging in size from small to extra large, all with views of Indian Lake’s shoreline. Note that none of the cabins have electricity: propane both provides light and warms up the water heaters, and a wood stove helps out with chilly nights. The cabins are open for a few weeks in the summer and a few weeks in the fall. 

Complaints about no wi-fi or TV are few to none, as visitors keep busy kayaking, canoeing and enjoying other waterside activities along with biking or playing tennis.

6. Pioneer Cabins, Kumbrabow State Forest, West Virginia

Best for pet-friendly lodging

Situated on top of Rich Mountain, along the edge of the Allegheny Highlands, this West Virginia state park provides the opportunity to stay in one of six West Virginian pioneer cabins. These rustic gems will transport guests far back from our digital age – as in no electricity and running water – yet all feature modern-day comforts and are pet-friendly, with gas lights and gas refrigerators, a kitchen, linens, a wood fireplace and a grill. There’s also a central bathhouse and outdoor toilets. The cabins are available from April through the first week of December.

7. Appalachian Mountain Club Maine Wilderness Lodges, Maine

Best for relaxation and creature comforts

This property in Maine’s 100-Mile Wilderness is a collection of lodges along with a trail system that truly provides an off-the-beaten-path feeling. Originally a private camp in the mid-19th century, the pond-side Gorman Chairback Lodge & Cabins have four deluxe cabins with private bathrooms and eight shoreline cabins with woodstoves and gas lamps, plus a bunkhouse.

The Little Lyford Lodge & Cabins’ nine private cabins offer a combo of doubles and bunk beds plus a porch, a wood stove and gas lamps; for an additional fee, dogs can camp out here, too. Medawisla Lodge & Cabins (“medawisla” means “loon” in Abenaki) has five private hilltop cabins and four waterfront cabins with electric LED lighting and a wood stove. Each of these accommodations is open from January to March and June through October. 

8. Len Foote Hike Inn, Georgia

Best for hiking the Appalachian Trail

You reach this backcountry inn in Georgia via a hike to Amicalola Falls State Park. Before you go, know that cellphones, radios and most other electronic devices aren’t allowed. (The park’s visitor center can be used for emergency communication.) Its four main buildings hold 20 bedrooms with fans or heaters, bunkbeds, furnished linens and ample lighting.

Within the dining hall, guests are served family-style breakfasts and dinners. After hiking, go for a soak in the bathhouse or hang out and chat with others in the Sunrise Room. The inn is also a gateway to the Appalachian Trail and the moderate 9.8-mile loop Len Foote Hike Inn Trail.

9. Moloka’i, Hawaii

Best for a remote tropical getaway

Our list of off-the-grid vacations in the United States would be incomplete without the Aloha State, Hawaii. This state has several islands and opportunities to unplug from the outside world, but Moloka‘i truly stands out in this way. The pace of this island is much slower; there are no traffic lights, and nightlife is virtually nonexistent. However, there are many opportunities to explore and relax in nature, including hiking to see waterfalls, beaches, coves, rainforests, or mountain biking. 

Stay at the Pu‘u O Hōkū Ranch, a family-owned organic ranch, farm and rustic retreat center on the remote east end of Moloka‘i. The lodge is ideal for larger groups, while the smaller cottages are perfect for families or couples. 

10. Camp Orenda, Johnsburg, NY

Best for backcountry camping

Find tranquility in the Adirondacks at Camp Orenda and enjoy an authentic backcountry camping experience. Located in the beautiful Adirondack State Park in New York, Camp Orenda offers several canvas cabin options. All cabins are furnished and include bedding, towels, lighting, fans, outlets and wood-burning inspired electric heating stove. Camp Orenda has limited cell phone service and wi-fi is available, but it is very slow. 

Staying inside a state park means there are plenty of activities to enjoy with friends, partners or family. In this area, you can go hiking, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting and mountain biking.

11. Red Mountain Alpine Lodge, Ouray, Colorado 

Best for a large group

The Red Mountain Alpine Lodge is a remote, off-grid getaway located in Colorado. You’ll have a front-row seat to the pristine backcountry of the San Juan Mountains, Colorado’s most diverse mountain range. At this lodge, you’ll have complete access to Red Mountain Pass, known for its lofty elevation and unmistakable red-orange color. In this area, you can go hiking, skiing, snowboarding and private backcountry skiing, or you can simply relax at the lodge and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. 

The timber-frame backcountry lodge can accommodate up to 18 people. It has several showers and sinks, a large living room and dining area, a licensed tavern on site, radiant in-floor heat and wi-fi. While there is reliable wi-fi at the lodge, there is no cellular service coverage, making this one of the best off-grid vacations if you’re looking to unplug with a big group in a cozy, rustic setting. 

12. Ventana Campground, Big Sur, California 

Best for camping – or glamping – among the redwoods

While the Golden State has beautiful beaches, national parks like Yellowstone National Park and excellent nightlife, parts of it are very remote. Ventana Campground, located in Big Sur, is a 40-acre redwood canyon and a tent-only campground, meaning no RVs, motor homes, travel trailers or camper vans are allowed. Each campsite includes a fire ring, water faucets, a picnic table and two modern bath houses. No generators or additional hookups are allowed at Ventana. 

You’ll have easy access to the Big Sur community while relaxing and spending time in nature. Hike among the redwoods, visit a state park, and spot a California condor.  

For those who don’t want to rough it, Ventana also has a glamping experience with more premium and luxurious facilities and amenities.

From the snow-tipped Pyrenees and the jagged Picos de Europa in the north, to the wave-battered Islas Atlánticas to the west; from the Doñana wetlands, to Europe’s only desert in the Almería province; from the forest-covered mountains of Sierra de las Nieves and Sierra Nevada, to the sun-drenched volcanic peaks of the Canary Islands; Spain’s natural landscapes are striking in their sheer diversity and natural beauty.

Around one third of Spain comes under protected status, and its national parks showcase the best of the country’s natural bounty and success of conservation efforts. Spain’s rugged terrain is a playground for hikers, climbers, horseback riders and other fresh-air aficionados, while the country’s diversity of animal life is second to none, ranging from lynx, wolves and brown bears to Europe’s most prolific and varied birdlife.

Spain’s national parks

Straddling southeast Asturias, southwest Cantabria and northern Castilla y León, the 1918-founded, 260-square-mile Parque Nacional de los Picos de Europa – Spain’s first national park – comprises some of Spain’s (and Europe’s) most spectacular mountain scenery. Dominated by 8,000-foot peaks Macizo El Cornión, Macizo Ándara and Macizo Central, its dramatic limestone crags loom above sparkling lakes and mountain meadows, with the sheer rock faces plunging dramatically down into precipitous river gorges. The park’s natural bounty is accessed via an extensive network of signposted hiking trails; August is the busiest of the summer months, while during winter you’re likely to have the national park more or less to yourself.

Battered by Atlantic waves, Parque Nacional de las Islas Atlánticas encompasses four small archipelagos off the windswept coast of Galicia: Illas Cíes, Ons, Sálvora and Cortegada. The stars of the show are three Illas Cíes, two of them forming a natural breakwater that protects one of Spain’s loveliest white-sand beaches from the Atlantic’s fury. Once you’re there, the well-trodden footpaths to the lofty lighthouse and other viewpoints make for excellent day walking. Further north, quieter Illa de Ons features several sandy coves and a network of gentle trails. Between 15 May and 15 September, there’s a cap on the number of day visitors, so booking visitors’ permits online and ferry tickets to Illa de Ons weeks in advance is essential, particularly for July and August.

The deep canyons, mountain lakes, thick forest, waterfalls, and dragon’s back of limestone peaks that make up Spain’s joint-oldest national park, Aragon’s 60-square-mile Ordesa y Monte Perdido, rival the Picos de Europe when it comes to natural beauty, yet it receives a fraction of the Picos’ foot traffic.

Further east, Catalonia’s rugged 55-square-mile Parque Nacional Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici is another slice of alpine beauty, its mountain meadows, forests, granite peaks and more than 200 lakes forged by glacial action over two million years.

Just north of Madrid lies the 130-square-mile Parque Nacional Sierra de Guadarrama, the only wilderness in Spain comprising high Mediterranean mountains and forests that shelter the Iberian ibex, roe deer and the golden eagle. Hiking aside, there are several small ski resorts, as well as the impressive 15th-century Castillo de los Mendoza in the region’s main town of Manzanare El Real.

Heading west, Extremadura’s hilly, dramatic 70-square-mile Parque Nacional de Monfragüe straddles the Tajo River valley and is particularly rich in bird life: its 175 feathered species include black vultures, the Spanish imperial eagle and black stork. Deer, badgers, wild boar and otters are often spotted while hiking from the pretty hamlet of Villareal de San Carlos.

South of Madrid, in Castilla-La Mancha, the vast grasslands, mountains, and holm-oak and cork-oak forests of 390-sq-km Parque Nacional de Cabañeros, a.k.a. ‘Spain’s Serengeti’, shelter roe deer, wildcats and assorted raptors. Also in Castilla-La Mancha, the pocket-sized, 8-square-mile Tablas de Damiel protects one of Spain’s last remaining floodplains, a vital habitat for endemic and migrating bird species, with ducks, geese, kingfishers, flamingos and herons spotted from boardwalks and observation hides.

In Andalucía, the vast coastal wetlands of the 230-square-mile, World Heritage-listed Parque Nacional de Doñana shelter the elusive lynx and a cornucopia of bird life; the mountains of 140-square-mile Parque Nacional Sierra de las Nieves are clad in Spain’s only remaining pinsapo (ancient fir tree) forest, while the precipitous peaks of the majestic 330-square-mile Parque Nacional Sierra Nevada are an irresistible lure for trekkers.

More than 40 percent of the Canary Islands are protected natural spaces. That includes four national parks – the most of any region in Spain – representing a mix of fantastical, varied landscapes. Walk through the eerily beautiful laurel forests of La Gomera’s Parque Nacional de Garajonay, or gaze over the unworldly and tortured landscape of Lanzarote’s Parque Nacional de Timanfaya, a splendid natural canvas of shimmery grays, earthy reds and pops of pine-green clashing against the brilliant-blue sky.

Best for outdoor sports

Dominated by 11,500-foot Mulhacén, the highest peak in mainland Spain, Andalucia’s Parque Nacional de Sierra Nevada features spectacular hiking – from two long-distance trails, and ascents of its most challenging crags, such as Mulhacén and Alcazaba, to moderately taxing rambles between the picturesque villages of the Alpujarras valleys. Outdoor operators arrange adrenaline-packed via ferrate and canyoning excursions, plus horseback adventures along centuries-old muleteer trails. Sierra Nevada also boasts the highest skiing resort in Europe, with powder action between late November and April.

In the Pyrenees right by the border with France, Parque Nacional Ordesa throws down a gauntlet to serious hikers who come to summit the challenging 11,000-foot Monte Perdido that towers over dramatic glacial valleys. Other popular hikes from Pradera de Ordesa include the day hike to the Circo de Cotatuero, a powerful waterfall, while Torla is the epicenter of exhilarating white-water rafting action.

Small but perfectly formed, Parque Nacional Sierra de las Nieves welcomes hikers outside the nieve (snow) months of January to March. The towns of El Burgo and Tolox make good hiking bases, and top hikes include the ascents of the 6,300-foot Torrecilla peak and the Cañada de los Cuernos gully to the high pass of Puerto de los Pilones.

The Picos de Europa cater to hikers of all abilities with dozens of trails, ranging from easy strolls around the Lagos de Covadonga to the tough high-mountain three-day route known as GR 202 that bisects the park, with the super-popular hike along the jaw-droppingly beautiful Cares gorge falling somewhere in between. Outfitters in Cangas de Onís, Potes and beyond offer rock-climbing, horse-riding, caving and canyoning, while Arriondas is the most popular kayaking base.

The pine- and fir-bedecked glacial valleys of Parque Nacional Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici makes for fantastic high-country hiking, whether it’s the 19-mile-long Espot–Boí traverse or shorter ascents to the likes of Estany Gran d’Amitges (7,800 feet) or the Estany de Monestero (7,200 feet).

Best for wildlife

The world’s most endangered wild cat species, the Iberian lynx (lince ibérico) has bounced back from the brink of extinction thanks to a captive-breeding program. Now there are more than four hundred in the wild, some found in Extremadura’s Parque Nacional de Monfragüe, and the majority spread across Andalucía’s Parque Nacional de Doñana; you’ll have to be lucky to spot these nocturnal creatures on guided tours.

Similar numbers of brown bears (oso pardo) are spread across the Cordillera Cantábrica (Cantabria, Asturias and northern Castilla y León) with a small population on the rise in the Pyrenees. Thanks to intensive conservation measures; they are occasionally seen in the Picos de Europa.

Spain’s 2,200 to 2,700 Iberian wolves (lobos ibéricos), are found in small populations across northwestern Spain, including the Picos de Europa, though the densest concentration is in the Sierra de Culebra, southwest of León.

Spain’s varied ecosystems are a haven for the biggest and most varied bird population in Europe, including around 25 species of birds of prey. The mountains and woodlands of Parque Nacional de Monfragüe are home to 280 bird species and are the best place in the country to spot the golden eagle (águila real), griffon vulture (buitre leonado) and Egyptian vulture (alimoche), as well as western Europe’s only breeding population of the black stork (cigüeña negra).

Huge flocks of flamingos turn the skies pink above the extensive wetlands of Parque Nacional de Doñana – a vital stop on the Africa-Europe flyway for migrating species, while Galicia’s Islas Atlánticas provides a stopover for the great cormorant, the northern gannet and the razorbill, and a home for the largest colony of yellow-legged gulls in the world, as well as the European shag and the storm petrel.

As all of this diverse wildlife thrives within Spain’s national parks, it stands as a testament to the commitment to preserving these natural treasures.