Iceland Glacier HikingIn the realms of exciting adventures, hiking on a glacier in Iceland is high on the list. Expert guides show guests how to use crampons and an ice ax, and instructs the group to walk in single file, following in one another’s steps across the ice. Once ready, the group makes their way to the foot of the massive Sólheimajökull Glacier. At first, everyone walks gingerly, unsure of our footing, but soon learn to trust the crampons, as they explore tunnels, arches, and crevasses carved by nature’s elements. There's even a chance to sip some of the glacial melt while resting and taking in the vast open surroundings. The power and beauty of nature are awe-inspiring.
Arthur’s Pass National Park, New Zealand
This place is a hiker’s paradise for the views, terrain, and feeling of remoteness. The hike up the Bealey Spur begins right from the Arthur's Pass Wilderness Lodge, and guests are quickly rewarded with the unrivaled panoramic views of the Southern Alps. Those who have the energy can push to the Bealey Spur hut a bit farther down the trail. Post-hike cocktail from the comfort of the lodge while watching the sun set behind the mountains definitely makes the day even more memorable. The lodge is extremely well-located and situated on a sheep station where they produce merino wool.
Tiger’s Nest Hike, BhutanAlthough never really crowded, it's best to get an early start and see the morning sun reflect off the golden roofs and whitewashed walls. At the beginning of the hike, Tiger’s Nest was a tiny speck set into the cliff high above the trailhead, and then it disappears for about an hour. The changing views of Bhutan’s most sacred temple complex are dramatic and increase the anticipation as you get closer. The final part of the journey, 850 steps, really puts the whole place into perspective—the remote location, the scale of the buildings, and the seemingly tangible spirituality that surrounds the place.
Old Man of Hoy, Scotland
This hike starts quietly enough through meadows with sheep happily munching away, but as you near the coast, the views open to the most dramatic coastal scenery as the Atlantic’s endless horizon stretched out ahead. The trail dances with the perspective of near and far as the endless blue sea juxtaposes with the rocky vertical cliffs. After 3 miles or so, the Old Man of Hoy sea stack makes its appearance. Walk right up to the edge to see this incredible natural tower in all its glory as the waves pound its base. This hike shows off everything one pictures Scotland’s rugged, cliff-lined coast to be.
Into Italy on the Tour du Mont Blanc
Every day on the Tour du Mont Blanc brings new, spectacular views, but the hike that leads from France into Italy has the most diverse landscape and varied terrain. Starting with a visit to a small cheesemaker who makes the regional Beaufort cheese, the moss-green fields, cowbells, and dramatic valley are left behind for the ascent to the pass. The landscape on the other side is different—more exposed rock and a wider valley. Views of the Italian face of Mont Blanc are possible with clear skies. There are no guards or passport control, hikers step right over the border and start their descent, following a turquoise river into a dense forest. It's best to finish the day with a pint of Italian beer at the bar at the end of the trail before transferring to the adorable town of Courmayeur.
Mt. Brda Summit, SloveniaEach hike in Slovenia's Julian Alps is incredible in its own way, but the hike up Mt. Brda is a perennial favorite. Although one of the more strenuous hikes in the area, it is well-worth the challenge for the feeling of accomplishment and the stunning views from the summit. The hike begins in the open, rolling pastures with grazing cows, then becomes steeper and morphs into a dense pine forest that thins on the ascent. Beautiful Alpine views spread out at the summit, which always evokes numerous wows and murmurs of wonderment from hikers. A picnic lunch tops it all off with magnificent scenery all around.