You want to get away for an epic vacation. But you also want to move more, feel the wind in your hair and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Wellness travel is more than just a trend in tourism — it’s a way of life that families, couples and girlfriends are prioritizing to create active adventures around the globe.
While there are many resorts and fitness programs that offer comprehensive and structured experiences, it’s easy to create your own active adventure with a bit of planning and research.
Here are a few of our favorite destinations for adventures and outdoor activity:
For mystical energy: Sedona, Arizona
The red rocks of Sedona are known for their mystical energy vortexes, making this Arizona town a wellness paradise. With hundreds of hiking trails, Sedona offers treks that range from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Don’t forget your camera, because the red rocks come alive at sunrise or during the golden hour for panoramic views that will take your breath away. Consider switching things up with a rafting trip on the Verde River or a day trip to the Grand Canyon for a hike below the rim on the Kaibab trail. And then? Be sure to schedule time to tend to aching muscles with a massage at L’Auberge Sedona.
For naturalists: Jekyll Island, Georgia
Ten miles of beach and 20 miles of bike paths line Jekyll Island, a barrier island in the Golden Isles of Georgia. The unspoiled sand dunes was once an outdoor playground for the likes of the Rockefellers and Goodyears, just to name a few. Nowadays, Jekyll Island is a state park that offers a laid-back opportunity to immerse yourself in a natural habitat that is home to birds of all types, rescued turtles and dolphins playing in the waves. Rent a bicycle to explore the marshy interior, or take a walk along Driftwood Beach for a relaxing ocean air adventure. Cap off your active theme from an oceanfront balcony at the Westin Jekyll Island, where the wide beach greets you with sublime sunrise and sunset views. Not only does the Westin Jekyll Island embrace the island’s ecosystem, but it enhances your adventures with Westin’s commitment to wellness. Guests will find menus rich with superfoods, signature Westin Heavenly mattresses and spa-like decor and fitness amenities that include gear lending just in case you forgot your running shoes.
For adrenaline junkies: Jackson Hole, Wyoming
National park enthusiasts and adventure travelers will appreciate Jackson Hole, Wyoming, as the ultimate basecamp for exploring Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Park. For year-round adrenaline infused adventures, Jackson Hole beckons with scenic vistas, national parks and mountain peaks that play peekaboo with the clouds 365 days a year. No matter what your sport or interest is, Jackson Hole has something for everyone with activities such as hiking, paddle boarding, white-water rafting and skiing. Consider setting up base camp in Teton Village. Thrill seekers can try paragliding from the summit of Rendezvous Mountain, while runners looking to take their skills to the next level can participate in a running camp led by elite mountain runner Eric Orton.
For those who want to work on their swings: Longboat Key, Florida
Perfect your golf or tennis swing after a long walk on the beach in Longboat Key, Florida. Easily accessible from Sarasota, Longboat Key offers more than just 12-miles of beach. Yogis will appreciate a few sun salutations during morning beach yoga before a day of sun and activity. The world-renowned Tennis Gardens at the Resort at Longboat Key Club offer the perfect place to brush up on your strokes or find your inner competitor, while two different golf courses challenge you to avoid the challenging water hazards. Another reason to love the Resort at Longboat Key Club? In addition to several delicious restaurants where fresh seafood and healthy options are plentiful, rooms are equipped with a kitchenette for travelers who prefer a home-cooked meal every now and then.
Want to dust off your passport and feed your wanderlust?
Try the Atlas Mountains of Morocco — just a short drive from Marrakech. Experienced hikers can take a two-day trek to the top of Mount Toubkal, whereas day hikers can explore trails in and out of Berber villages. The Kasbah du Toubkal — a Berber hospitality house — makes the ideal home away from home in the village of Imlil, with hiking guides, soothing Berber tea and a hammam to relax after a day of adventure.
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5 Destinations to Inspire Adventures and Wellness originally appeared on usnews.com
