Journeys
Nature
Whether your passion involves mountains, jungle, sea, or wildlife, inspire your inner explorer with these nature-focused itineraries.
Photo by Luca Bravo/unsplash
5 days
New River Gorge, once one of the country’s hidden gems, recently became the United State’s 63rd and newest national park in December, the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve. On this five-day road trip, you’ll explore the river by water and by air, and stop at West Virginia’s small cities, Appalachian-influenced restaurants, hot springs, and caves.
12 days
Katie Cadar of TravelStore has created an itinerary covering the highlights of South Australia, including many quintessential Australian experiences. You’ll visit two of the country’s exciting cities and explore culinary and wine scenes, get a taste of the Outback, and meet some of Australia’s aquatic and animal life. Melbourne and Adelaide, the capital of South Australia, each have their unique charms as well as cafés, restaurants, and wine bars not to be missed. Next, you’ll head to South Australia’s Flinders Ranges to explore the Outback before heading to the Barossa Valley, one of the country’s top wine regions. Finally, Kangaroo Island will fascinate armchair naturalists, with its wonders both above and below the sea.
7 Days
Scout your way through Scotland on this seven-day itinerary that takes you along the film trail and to bustling Edinburgh and Glasgow, ancient castles, pristine glens, and storybook villages.
7 days
The Bluegrass State may be widely known for green rolling countryside (not to mention the Derby and mint juleps!), but what lurks beneath is just as impressive. This trip explores Kentucky's fascinating underworld network of caves with plenty of above-ground fun to be had along the way, from finger-licking barbecue joints to horseback riding.
8 Days
The 8-day trip to New South Wales includes four nights in Sydney, with days dedicated to its beaches and harbor, and three nights in Jervis Bay, visiting some of the wineries of the Shoalhaven Coast Wine Region.
8 Days
This 8-day luxury trip to New South Wales includes Sydney’s restaurants and museums, the Hunter Valley wine region, and the Blue Mountains.
6 days
Sandy shores, tidal marshes, and pine forests make for an experience where salty air and evergreen scents mingle in The Lowcountry—and set the stage for an inspiring and refreshing trip. On this five-day expedition into the genuine culture, flavors, and natural beauty of the region, you’ll find small communities with deep regional roots, delicious cuisine, and fascinating history.
7 Days
Sample the best of the Cayman Islands on this itinerary to three islands, and one uninhabited islet.
12 days
Visit five countries in Central America on this 12-day cruise that includes ancient sites, colonial cities, and natural wonders.
6 days
This customizable six-day journey by rail visits Zurich, Zermatt, and St. Moritz, with the chance to explore elegant cities, enjoy breathtaking views, and relax in luxury along the way.
10 days
Katie Cadar of TravelStore has created an itinerary that includes stays at the best of Switzerland's spas and wellness centers. The country's healing traditions date back millennia, to thermal springs that have drawn visitors since the days of the Roman Empire. Switzerland's wellness centers also incorporate the latest scientific advances. At the end of her trip, you'll not only fly home with memories of stunning alpine lakes and hikes through mountain valleys, but rejuvenated and recharged.
10 days
Betty Jo Currie of Currie & Co. Travels Unlimited was inspired by an unforgettable trip she took to Switzerland with her daughters to create an itinerary that includes many of her favorite highlights in the country. It includes plenty of opportunities to explore the country's most stunning regions, like the Bernese Oberland, on foot, but also sunset cruises on lake steamers, cable car rides, and a journey aboard one of the world's most famous trains.
3 days
Cari Gray of Gray & Co. specializes in "custom trips for active travelers," and in Switzerland there's no shortage of opportunities to explore by bike or on foot. For an introduction to Switzerland's Francophone regions, she sends travelers to the cantons of Neuchâtel and Jura, roughly 45 minutes from Bern. She'll provide you with a choice of biking and hiking options and stops where you can enjoy the region's famous cuisine and wines. To see even more of Switzerland with Cari, this trip can be easily combined with her itinerary to Appenzell, "A Canton Off the Beaten Path." Also check out this guide covering some of the highlights in more detail.
8 days
Will Kiburz of Coronet Travel has designed an itinerary that includes everything from paddle steamers to paragliding, taking advantage of the astounding range of activities around Interlaken and central Switzerland. It's a region of Switzerland that's ideal for the multigenerational trip, assuring everyone in the family will return home satisfied.
7 days
Michael Holtz has created a journey that takes in some of the highest peaks of the Swiss Alps, by bicycle. You'll ascend to the top of the Oberalp Pass and Julier Pass, among other iconic sites in the Swiss Alps, but there's also plenty of time to experience St. Moritz, Andermatt, and other stops along the way. Don't be intimidated if you aren't a serious cyclist—the Smart Flyer team will customize this trip according to your biking abilities and your time pedaling with be as strenuous, or not, as you like. Your trip will end just over the border in Italy, where you'll get to experience the country's lakes before heading home.
7 days
Bob Preston, a resident of Geneva, has created two trips right in his own backyard. The week-long itinerary here highlights two products, chocolate and cheese, that are familiar Swiss exports and one that would be better known if the Swiss didn't consume almost all of their wine before it can leave the country. Continue reading below for details about the itinerary and also check out our guide describing some of the highlights of this trip that will leave your palate sated.
7 Days
Five days of hiking through Queensland’s Scenic Rim includes overnight stays at five different Spicers properties and a close look at the natural beauty of this unique part of Australia.
7 Days
This seven-day, family-friendly itinerary to Queensland covers many of the urban highlights of Brisbane and the natural ones of the Gold Coast.
7 Days
This seven-day itinerary to Queensland focuses on the gorgeous natural wonders and fascinating urban experiences found in this part of Australia.
5 Days
Travel to Sweden's far north, Swedish Lapland, on this five-day itinerary that includes opportunities to experience both the midnight sun and Midsummer celebrations.
5 Days
A five-day trip to Stockholm and its archipelago at the height of summer includes opportunities to join in one of Sweden's most festive celebrations, Midsommar.
5 Days
This five-day itinerary to Gothenburg and western Sweden includes some of the region's natural and culinary (especially its langoustines) highlights.
13 Days
This customizable 13-day journey by private jet offers exclusive access to remote corners of Kauai, Maui, Lanai, and the Big Island of Hawaii, with plenty of time for volcano hikes, swimming with exotic fish, lounging on the beach, and everything in between.
10 Days
This customizable 10-day journey by private air charter explores the can’t-miss destinations of Girdwood, Finger Lake, Kachemak Bay, and Anchorage, with plenty of time for beachcombing, nature walks, and wildlife sightings in between.
10 Days
This customizable 10-day journey by private jet offers the chance to visit Grand Teton, Yellowstone, Moab, Arches, Canyonlands, Bryce Canyon, Zion, and Grand Canyon national parks all in just 10 days, with stays at some of the country’s top hotels along the way.
6 Days
If you’re a traveler who agrees that the best way to explore on foot, bike, kayak, or even camel, you’ll feel right at home in Abu Dhabi.
6 Days
With everything from ancient forts to the world's newest theme parks, Abu Dhabi will dazzle kids from tots to teens.
8 Days
Take a breezy, breathtaking sail to six legendary islands in wondrous French Polynesia, including an overnight in Bora Bora.
12 days
This incredible Alaskan cruise adventure begins in Anchorage and sails to iconic glaciers, rugged scenic vistas, and wildlife-viewing areas.
8 days
This Icelandic cruise circles the entire island—beginning and ending in Reykjavik—and takes you to majestic fjords, small fishing villages, and craggy volcanic islands.
5 Days
Hungary’s magical Lake Balaton offers something for everyone, from fine wines and culinary experiences to bike rides and boat tours.
9 Days
This 9-day trip to Colombia includes three very different cities—Bogotá, Cartagena, and Medellín—as well as a detour to the country’s coffee-growing region.
10 Days
A week-long journey by boat through the Galápagos Islands includes stops at 11 islands, providing opportunities to experience the remarkable diversity of landscapes and animals in the archipelago.
7 Days
This seven-day trip to Iceland includes hikes, yoga and meditation sessions, and visits to some of Iceland’s most famous sights.
9 Days
This 9-day trip to the peaks and glaciers of Patagonia begins and ends in Buenos Aires.
8 Days
This eight-day trip to Gothenburg includes the city’s cultural, culinary, and shopping highlights, along with three days dedicated to nearby islands.
7 Days
This week-long itinerary includes stops in Amman, Wadi Rum, and Petra, while highlighting opportunities to meet with residents of Jordan.
8 Days
This eight-day trip to Jordan begins and ends in Amman, with other days spent trekking through destinations with both famous and lesser-visited sites.
7 Days
This seven-day trip to Jordan includes biblical sites, ancient cities, and the country’s most stunning natural landscapes.
7 Days
This week-long itinerary includes stops at all of Jordan’s most famous sites: Amman, Wadi Rum, Petra, and the Dead Sea.
5 Days
The five-day itinerary focuses on the best beaches and other surfing-related sites of Dana Point and Laguna Beach.
4 Days
This four-day itinerary to Orange County’s Dana Point and Laguna Beach emphasizes the natural beauty of this part of California with chances to explore it on water, foot, bike, and kayak.
7 Days
This seven-day trip to Costa Rica includes stops in San José; Arenal, the famous volcano in northern Costa Rica; and Guanacaste, a province along the Pacific Ocean.
4 Days
This 4-day itinerary highlights some classics and a handful of unexpected excursions in Palm Springs and other nearby resort communities, the San Jacinto Mountains, and Joshua Tree National Park.
17 days
This cruise visits some of the world’s most fascinating and remote ports, in northern Japan and the Russian Far East.
16 Days
This 16-day cruise is perfect for travelers who want to experience all the cultural riches and natural beauty of the islands of Japan.
16 Days
A 16-day cruise through Indonesia, beginning in Bali and ending in Cairns, Australia, calls on some of the world’s most legendary islands.
14 days
This 14-day cruise along Australia’s east coast explores the Great Barrier Reef, pristine islands, and appealing beach towns.
14 days
Two ruggedly beautiful islands, Tasmania and New Zealand’s South Island, are the focus of this 14-day cruise.
22 Days
This 22-day trip is an epic adventure to Antarctica, starting in Tasmania and ending in Christchurch, New Zealand.
14 days
This journey through some of the most fascinating islands of the Indonesian archipelago begins in Rangoon and ends in beautiful Bali.
3 Days
A three-day trip to Lake Balaton offers opportunities to taste the area’s famous wines and explore its culinary scene.
18 days
An 18-day cruise through Russia’s Far East and the remote ports of Alaska calls at volcanic islands, where seals, sea lions, and birds often outnumber people.
7 days
From Durban to Maputo, this 7-day voyage takes you to some of southern Africa’s most interesting ports.
7 Days
A naturalist’s dream, this weeklong journey makes an unforgettable introduction to the flora and fauna of the Galápagos.
17 days
Venture to the land of polar bears and the midnight sun on this expedition to Norway, the edges of the Arctic icecap, and Iceland.
17 Days
This 17-day cruise around the Baffin Sea calls at some of the world’s most remote ports and the Far North’s most spectacular landscapes.
17 Days
This 17-day cruise visits some of the remote and rugged areas of Antarctica and the South Atlantic, a land of glaciers, penguins, and the southern midnight sun.
11 Days
This 11-day cruise visits some of the highlights of Antarctica, as you explore its islands and glaciers, experience the southern midnight sun, and see the area’s famous wildlife.
15 Days
A 15-day cruise through the Indonesian archipelago offers a taste of the astounding cultural and natural diversity of this country of 17,000 islands.
13 Days
This 12-day cruise begins in Dublin and ends in Tromsø, Norway, with stops at some in Scotland’s Hebrides and Shetland islands along the way.
8 Days
Set out on two wheels to explore the South African countryside, from the scenic coast and vineyards to the dramatic Little Karoo region, with a final stop in enchanting Cape Town.
11 Days
From Cape Town, head east along South Africa’s coast to take in the Cape Winelands, wildlife-rich nature reserves, and the multicultural city of Durban.
12 Days
From Cape Town and Johannesburg to world-famous Kruger National Park, this first-timer’s itinerary covers the top highlights of South Africa.
9 Days
Immerse yourself in South Africa’s thriving art scene during a 9-day trip that features Johannesburg, Cape Town, and a safari camp known for its collection.
15 Days
This itinerary sails to three islands—Tasmania and New Zealand’s North and South islands—with captivating natural wonders and cultural riches.
5 days
Betty Jo Currie of Currie & Co. has created a trip that allows you to sample the culinary and cultural scenes of Edmonton, Alberta’s capital, and then embrace the outdoors. At Jasper National Park, you’ll try canyoning, go heli-hiking, and soak in hot springs at the end of a long, satisfying day.
7 days
This long overlooked corner of Mexico is now attracting travelers with its Mayan ruins, vibrant indigenous cultures, and national parks.
5 days
The entire fortified center of Québec City is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Judy Perl's itinerary features its notable landmarks as well as new museums and fêted restaurants. You'll also visit the farms of the Ile d'Orleans and explore the stunning natural sights of Charlevoix.
5 days
Winnipeg can feel like an unexpected find with its fascinating museums and cool neighborhoods. Will Kiburz of Coronet Travel’s itinerary combines the best of Manitoba’s capital with a trip to the Far North, where you’ll explore the land of beluga whales and polar bears under the midnight sun and northern lights.
6 days
Katie Cadar has created a trip to pristine Vancouver Island, with opportunities for whale watching, wilderness safaris, fishing expeditions, and bear sightings. As you explore the island, you’ll stay at world-class eco-lodges and embark on adventures with local naturalists and First Nations guides.
6 days
The provinces of Atlantic Canada offer windswept, dramatic scenery, as well as lively cities that make the most of the glorious summers here. Michael Holtz’s coastal itinerary includes some of his favorite places in Nova Scotia and New Brunswick, from natural wonders to historic sites.
5 Days
This five-day trip through the southern Swedish regions of Småland and Skåne includes an opportunity to join in a very Swedish tradition, a crayfish party.
7 Days
Swimming, picknicking, and more ways to enjoy the natural beauty of Sweden in this 7-day trip to its capital city and nearby islands.
3 Days
This three-day itinerary in Scottsdale focuses on some of the city’s lesser-known sites.
3 Days
This itinerary for a long weekend in Scottsdale has an aerial tour of the Grand Canyon at its heart but focuses plenty on the captivating views you can experience on mountain hikes or while dining on expansive patios.
9 Days
This nine-day itinerary covers many of the highlights of West Sweden, from its coast to its interior.
6 Days
This six-day itinerary focused on East Tennessee includes stops in Chattanooga, Knoxville, and Gatlinburg.
14 Days
This 14-day itinerary focuses on the natural beauty of Stockholm, its archipelago, and the far north of Sweden in Lapland.
5 Days
This five-night Ozarks itinerary includes stops at many of the parks near Springfield, Missouri, and the Lake of the Ozarks.
7 Days
This itinerary to the Cayman Islands is designed with active travelers in mind, every day bringing new adventures.
12 days
This 12-day itinerary covers Thailand, from the island paradise of Phuket in the south to elephants in the northern hill country, while several days in Bangkok provide an introduction to one of the most exciting and fascinating cities in Asia.
8 Days
This 8-day road trip along the scenic coastline between Santa Barbara and Monterey includes some of the most beautiful parts of California—Buellton, Big Sur, Carmel, and more.
12 days
Explore one of the world's most biodiverse countries on this Costa Rica itinerary that takes you from crocodile river-safaris to ziplining in the rainforest and hiking around the Arenal Volcano.
6 Days
Savor your way through the south of Germany; this itinerary takes you from Munich’s art museums to Stuttgart’s wineries, and from the bathhouses of Baden-Baden to Michelin-starred restaurants in the Black Forest.
6 days
Explore the desert landscapes of Baja California, and the area’s award-winning wineries, on this six-day itinerary.
16 Days
The far-flung wilds of Australia are at your fingertips on an exclusive 15-night luxury Outback safari, a high-flying adventure of ultra-luxe proportions. Find luxury resorts nestled in wildlife reserves, kangaroo encounters on white sand beaches, fine dining under red rock escarpments, sunset billabong cruises to aboriginal sites, flightseeing adventures over the Kimberley, and five-star homesteads in Australia’s last true frontier. Go with Ker & Downey and travel to remote pockets of authentic Outback luxury. From touch down to take off, this 16-day sojourn promises a true Outback safari experience, coupled with only the highest standards of service, cuisine, and comfort.
7 days
Discover the land of Tasmanian devils, exquisite waterfalls and oyster-filled bays on a Travcoa Privately Guided Journey. Be captivated by the art in the quaint town of Hobart. Uncover the island’s history at convict settlements and enjoy the local vineyards. Explore the glacial peaks of Cradle Mountain and cliff top trails at Freycinet National Park. Cruise along the Gordon River to view White-bellied Sea Eagles and meet indigenous animals at Bonorong Wildlife Park. Book by May 31, 2016 to save $250 per person (TAZ16). www.travcoa.com or 844-289-5256
13 days
Designed by Cox & Kings Asia & the Pacific Destination Manager Renee Van Drent, this spectacular journey along the eastern coast of Australia begins in the cosmopolitan city of Sydney, where you’ll explore parks and gardens and visit the iconic opera house. Then you'll head north to tropical Brisbane and the beautiful landscapes of Fraser Island, which you’ll discover on thrilling 4WD adventures. Continue on to spend some time in a resort on pretty Airlie Beach, fly to the magical Whitsunday Islands, and venture deep into the oldest rainforest in the world, which lies just inland from the Great Barrier Reef.
9 Days
Kristen Korey Pike of KK Travels Worldwide in Atlanta has created an itinerary focused on two of the most stunning areas of natural beauty in New South Wales: the Central Coast of the territory, to the north of Sydney, and Lord Howe Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site with its green peaks that rise dramatically above the ocean. Before you escape from civilization, you’ll have a chance to see the highlights of Sydney on a private tour. For the traveler who is ready to hit the beach, whether a lively urban one like Bondi in Sydney or the pristine bays of Bouddi National Park and Lord Howe Island, all you need to do is contact Kristen and then pack your swimsuit.
15 days
John Clifford of International Travel Management has created an itinerary that highlights the best of two states: Victoria and South Australia. In Victoria, you’ll explore the state’s capital, Melbourne, from its historic architecture to its exciting restaurants. Daytrips will take you to Victoria’s wine region, the Yarra Valley, and Phillip Island where you’ll see a sight you’ll never forget: Phillip Island’s Penguin Parade, perhaps followed by an aquatic adventure to Seal Rocks. The wine continues to flow in South Australia, with a few days to explore the world-renowned Barossa Valley. You’ll conclude your Australian trip on Kangaroo Island where you’ll share the beach with sea lions and indigenous Australian wildlife.
13 days
Shelby Donley of Camelback Odyssey has created an itinerary that starts in Brisbane followed by a chance to explore Australia’s Northern Territory. For many, Brisbane is the gateway to Queensland, but after you explore the state capital, you’ll continue to the Northern Territory. You’ll start in Darwin, the territory’s capital, which has a laidback tropical feel and stunning beaches, and then head to Kakadu National Park. Guides will introduce you to the area’s natural wonders and its Aboriginal cultures. You’ll conclude your adventure at a 500,000-acre cattle station with 12 guest rooms, though you won’t be put to work. Instead you’ll take advantage of activities from guided drives to helicopter tours as you explore the Northern Territory.
12 days
The eastern coast of Australia is home to one of the country’s most famous destinations: the Great Barrier Reef. You will have time to snorkel the famous reef but Betty Jo Currie of Currie & Co. has created an itinerary that includes that and much more. You’ll start in vibrant Sydney where you’ll experience iconic sites and exciting culinary and nightlife scenes. Then you’ll head north to Byron Bay, Hamilton Island in the Whitsundays, and finally a nature reserve back on mainland Queensland. Along the way, you’ll soak up Australia’s coastlines and unforgettable cuisine, with walks ranging from rainforests to shopping districts. Book a trip and then dive in.
4 days
JetBlue Getaways wants to introduce you to Bermuda—from its underground caves to the top of its historic lighthouses. Along the way, there’s time to explore St. George’s and Hamilton and, of course, enjoy a rum swizzle or two.
7 Days
Blue skies, emerald meadows, and iconic peaks add up to a picture-perfect vacation. On this itinerary to the Alps' most photogenic towns and with plenty of food shots along the way, you'll discover the region's highlights are always ready for a close-up. Photo credit: Viorel Munteanu
6 days
This 6-day itinerary offers the best of Sonoma and Napa counties, plus a jaunt into Mendocino’s Anderson Valley.
7 Days
The Matterhorn, the Black Forest, and the postcard-perfect Alpine town of Hallstatt are some of the must-see stops on this journey through the Alps.
7 Days
The Alps have all the right ingredients: freshwater fish, wild game, mountain herbs, and fruits from its orchards. Add some of Europe's top chefs helming restaurants here, and you have a trip that will satisfy every traveling gourmet. Photo credit: Tourismus Salzburg Günter Breitegger
4 Days
A four-day trip to the Alps includes stops in the lively cities of Zurich and Innsbruck, with their cultural highlights and historic districts, as well as bucolic detours to Austria's Bregenzerwald and Germany's Black Forest. Photo credit: DZT, Alwin Tîlle
5 Days
How to embrace the great outdoors in Charleston, from stand-up paddle boarding to golf and tennis.
4 days
Whatever the season, here’s how to soak up the natural beauty of Charleston’s islands, beaches, and farms.
8 days
This sun-kissed holiday by the sea also includes opportunities to experience the Yucatan Peninsula’s cuisine, natural sites, and cultural highlights.
5 days
At the tip of Baja California, a desert landscape, two different cities by the sea, and a stunning coastline add up to a perfect Mexican holiday.
8 days
Spend a week exploring the cultural sites, vineyards, dramatic landscapes, and wildlife of Guanajuato and Michoacan.
5 days
Shelby Donley of Camelback Odyssey designed a trip that features Vancouver’s top restaurants, visits to a farmer’s market, and its best microbreweries. It pairs, naturally, with an excursion to the Okanagan Valley, for tastings in an area that has become one of North America’s most interesting wine regions.