From tiny villages to the world’s most populated towns, it’s become clear that there’s a special appeal to going carless. Many traffic-choked cities around the world are taking notice, charging drivers a fee for entering certain areas of town. If you’re tired of spending most of your travel time sitting in traffic, opt for a more movement-friendly city. Here are the destinations with the least amount of traffic in the world.
You probably don’t picture car-heavy streets when thinking of a remote island getaway – and that’s especially true for this hidden atoll in Quintana Roo. Isla Holbox is only accessible by boat and you’ll use either your feet, a bike, or a golf cart to get around its sandy lanes. All cars must be left in Chiquilá, the mainland town across the lagoon from Isla Holbox, where you’ll board a 20-minute ferry to reach the island. You can also catch the bus from Cancun if you’d rather forgo your own set of wheels altogether. With your toes in the sand and a margarita in hand, all of your woes about the outside world will surely melt a
A pipsqueak enclave in France’s Alpes-Maritimes region, Saint-Paul-de-Vence only allows cars owned by the village’s 3,000 residents – or guests of the two small hotels in town. Everyone else will have to park in one of the nearby parking lots outside the city’s walls or the subterranean parking garage beneath the city. This charming, cobbled town’s appeal is enhanced by the lack of cars clogging its quaint streets. Stroll past clusters of fuchsia bougainvillea clinging to the town’s stone facades, and relish in the fact that you likely won’t have to jump out of the way for passing cars.
This quaint middle-American retreat along Lake Michigan’s turquoise shores is one of the few car-free spots in the nation. Picture fudge shops, quiet evenings watching the sunset, and biking along the water. No one has been legally able to drive a car on Mackinac Island for well over 100 years. Instead, you’ll have to get around by bicycle, horse-drawn carriage, or good old-fashioned walking. This lack of modernity forces visitors to slow down and take it all in.
You might not expect to find Denmark’s capital on this list of trafficless burgs but the notoriously eco-friendly city of Copenhagen has made a concerted effort to begin banning all petrol-powered cars. Internal combustion engines are set to be outlawed entirely from 2030 onward, putting the focus on electric cars and public transportation. For a city whose bike traffic far exceeds car traffic, this doesn’t seem like a difficult achievement. Much like Amsterdam, which also hopes to forgo vehicular traffic in the future, riding bicycles is a way of life here. For visitors, most hotels offer free bikes to get around town although there are also bike shares all over the city. An added benefit of fewer cars and more bikes is not only safety but also lack of noise pollution, which means you can rest easy knowing you’ll get extra-peaceful zzz’s on your trip to the “City of Spires.”
Tucked in the shadow of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is a completely car-free Alpine city. Residents of the town voted for the ban on vehicles in 1966, resulting in both a more peaceful and less polluted environment. But this isn’t the only green initiative that this popular ski resort has adopted over the years. Many roads have been newly paved with asphalt that contains recycled plastic, you’ll see solar panels everywhere in town, and all snow plows use eco-speed diesel to reduce their emissions. Visitors will need to park in the nearby town of Täsch before continuing to the half-timbered, storybook village by train or electric taxi. Whatever you do, don’t attempt to drive past Täsch’s parking area. Tourists who do are heavily fined.
Even if you’re a hardcore golfer, you’ll find it hard to concentrate on the game when you are standing on the tee box overlooking the Pacific Ocean atop a towing cliff. If you’re planning your next golf vacation, we have some amazing courses to share! From breathtaking ocean views to panoramic vistas of the Rocky Mountains, you won’t miss these 6 stunning golf courses worldwide.
The Ocean Course at Hokuala, Kauai, USA
This gem of the Pacific winds its way through mango groves to dramatic coastal cliffs and top’s our list of the most stunning golf courses in the world. The Ocean Course at Hokuala is a Jack Nicklaus Signature course that hugs the ocean on a continuous stretch of oceanfront golf—the longest in all of Hawaii. To make your stay in paradise perfect, try the Timbers Kauai oceanfront residences where you can have your pri
The Old Course, St. Andrews, Scotland
No list of stunning golf courses is complete without including the “home of golf.” Make a tee-time at the Old Course at St. Andrews—the oldest and most legendary golf course in the world. Even though the Old Course is not as scenic as some of the other courses on this list, this course is stunning just because of what it means to golf. For example, the Swilcan Bridge is a revered icon by golfers all around the world. Be ready to yell “fore” because one of the unique features of the course is the large double greens where seven greens are shared by two holes each. The Old Course has hosted the “Open Championship” 29 times since 1873 and yet, many say the greatest feature is that it remains a public golf course, open to all who dare to tee it up.
Kauri Cliffs Golf Course, North Island, New Zealand
You will never want to leave the tee box as you gaze out over the Pacific Ocean perched atop a cliff that plunges to the sea. Kauri Cliffs features six of those vistas on this stunning course overlooking the Cavalli Islands and Cape Brett on the North Island of New Zealand. Besides the breathtaking views, you will find some of the best fairways, greens, and tees in the world. This award-winning golf course is attached to the Lodge at Kauri Cliffs, a luxury Relais & Chateaux Lodge (a global fellowship of individually owned and operated luxury hotels and restaurants) with three private beaches and luxury galore.
It’s hard to imagine, but standing on every tee, you will be blown away with panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies every way you turn. The Fairmont Banff Springs Golf Course in Alberta, Canada will captivate you with its beauty as well as challenge your golf game. The course was built more than 100 years ago by a Scottish golf pro who wanted to bring the sport to Banff, Canada’s first national park. The Fairmont Banff Springs Resort is a world-class resort and is the perfect place to stay and play.
Leopard Creek Country Club, Mpumalanga, South Africa
Deep in the bush of South Africa, you will find a golf course like no other you will ever experience in your wildest dreams. Golfing “hazards” take on a new dimension at the Gary Player-designed Leopard Creek Country Club, for the water is home to the amazing creatures for which the river is named, crocodiles. The course borders the world’s most famed safari destination—Kruger National Park. Many of the holes have water features that bring the wildlife to drink. Don’t be surprised if you catch a glimpse of crocodile, hippo, antelope, buffalo, and elephant. Stay at Manyatta Rock Camp and your African safari will be magical.
Old Head of Kinsale, County Cork, Ireland
Stunning may be an understatement for our next entry. The Old Head of Kinsale may be home to the most breathtaking golf course in the world. Set on an exquisite and unique headland stretching out over two miles into the Atlantic Ocean, the course showcases Ireland’s wild and rugged landscape. Old Head is clearly a highly sought-after golf experience that is hard to match anywhere on Earth. A stay at Old Head Seaview Suites offers magnificent views of the 18th green, Atlantic Ocean and Old Head Lighthouse. After an unforgettable day on the links, you will be lulled to sleep by waves crashing against the sheer walls and the salty smell of the sea air private oasis and experience the spirit of aloha and luxury living, Hawaiian style.
Allyn Maycumber ERA Grizzard Realty Broker/Associate
What was once a method of exploration and commerce, whitewater rafting has now become a full-blown adventure sport. Modern whitewater rafting as we know it today has roots in the aftermath of WWII when a surplus of rafts became available for commercial use. Match this with a newfound desire to explore America’s wilderness, and recreational rafting trips jumped in popularity. Whether you want to float lackadaisically through stunning scenery or crave an adrenaline-fueled ride into class V rapids, here are the best places to go river rafting in the U.S.
The Gauley River winds its way through the deep heart of West Virginia, close to one of the nation’s newest national parks: the New River Gorge. This is one of the world’s most challenging whitewater rafting destinations and features intense class IV and V rapids in high season. Most visitors come specifically for a run of the Upper Gauley River’s borderline sinister rapids. These rapids are so notoriously difficult that they’ve been given names like Lost Paddle. If you can take the heat, head to the Gauley River after a controlled water release for some extra thrills.
Perhaps the most well-known of all America’s whitewater rafting destinations, the Colorado River is famed for its path, cutting straight through the Grand Canyon. This is the most iconic and sought-after rafting trip in the United States, and for good reason. Besides the Grand Canyon, rafters can float through the red rock walls of Canyonlands National Park near Moab. Most trips vary from seven to fifteen days, depending on whether or not you’re using an oar or motorized boat. For obvious reasons, you can cover more ground with a motorized raft. Seek out remote beaches, perfect for camping and dinners served under sparkling views of the Milky Way.
As its name suggests, the Arkansas River flows from Arkansas through Oklahoma until it reaches Colorado. That’s when things heat up in the whitewater rafting sphere. Flowing through quaint mountain towns like Salida and Buena Vista, this river has mostly class I and II rapids, the perfect combination of tranquil floating and excitement. After the float is over, stop into local craft breweries or dip in one of the local hot springs scattered around the area.
The Kennebec River is one of the East Coast’s premier whitewater rafting destinations. Located in northwestern Maine, the river flows through some of the state’s dense forests and untouched natural beauty. Float itineraries include plenty of time for thrilling rapids while providing idyllic, calm stretches where you can swim alongside the raft in cool water. Most trips follow a 12-mile path through the Kennebec Gorge, where rafters can experience class III and even IV rapids, two of which are affectionately referred to as “Big Mama” and “Magic Falls.” It’s highly recommended to go with a guided trip as fluctuations caused by Harris Station, the hydroelectric dam, can cause varying degrees of water depth and a more intense flow.
The Salmon River isn’t just a stunning stretch of whitewater once traversed by Lewis and Clark. It was also a critical geographical feature in the genesis of adventure sports. It’s said that the first commercial whitewater rafting trip began here in 1940. Nicknamed the “River of No Return,” the Salmon River runs through some of America’s most rugged wilderness, including a canyon deeper than Arizona’s Grand Canyon. A multi-day rafting trip includes pummeling through class III and IV rapids and off-water adventures like hunting for pictographs, spotting wildlife, and exploring long-abandoned, historic cabins.
Oregon’s Rogue River begins in the Cascade Mountain Range before racing to the Pacific Ocean. Right in the middle of its ancient journey, the whitewater fun begins. Rapid classes run the gamut from I to V, meaning that intrepid rafters can choose from a more thrilling adventure or a serene float. Most trips down the Rogue River are only a few hours long, although you can certainly arrange for multi-day adventures. The Rogue River’s lush shoreline is also an incredible place to see wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for otters, black bears, and rainbow trout shimmering beneath the surface.
Ever since I first came to Florida from the northeast in the late 1990s, I’ve been doing my best to get to know as many of the gorgeous state parks here as possible. And while Florida’s 11 national parks — including Everglades National Park, Canaveral National Seashore, and Dry Tortugas National Park — tend to be the heavier tourism hitters, locals like me know its 175 state parks cover similarly gorgeous ground, with everything from freshwater springs and waterfalls to rare dune lakes and cave systems to explore.
I’ve spent moonlit winter nights under majestic oaks and cypress trees along the Santa Fe River at O’Leno State Park, thrown on a scuba tank to go diving with red-bellied turtles and giant gar fish in the crystal-clear waters of Rainbow Springs State Park, and camped on the sand within a couple yards of the water at Bahia Honda State Park in the Florida Keys.
Read on for 10 of my favorite Florida state parks — and the best ways to experience them on your next visit, too.
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Rainbow Springs State Park, Dunnellon
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Florida is brimming with freshwater springs, with more than 1,000 of the jewel-toned beauties scattered around the state. And while I hesitate to pick a favorite, Rainbow Springs State Park in north central Florida rises to the top. I love packing a picnic and sitting on the sloping shores surrounding the spring head before taking the cold plunge and walking the trails with family and friends. You can camp along the Rainbow River, accessed via a separate entrance nearby. This is also the best launching point for drift scuba diving outings or snorkeling in Rainbow River away from the crowds. For a luxury stay within a 30-minute drive of the park, consider The Equestrian Hotel in Ocala, an $800-million property devoted to all things equine and set in Florida’s stunning horse country.
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Bahia Honda State Park, Florida Keys
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It’s not easy to score a waterfront campsite at this popular state park on Big Pine Key, but even if you just swing through for the day, you’re in for a treat. Bahia Honda State Park is idyllic for snorkeling in clear, shallow waters atop grassy flats where you might spot juvenile reef fish and passing rays. It has some of the best natural beaches in the Florida Keys, too. You can rent kayaks and snorkeling gear on site, as well as book snorkeling trips to the bountiful reefs just offshore within Looe Key National Marine Sanctuary. My favorite thing to do here at sunset is follow the park’s lone nature trail from the southwest end of the island to the top of the old Bahia Honda Bridge. It’s the perfect place to scout fish, turtles, and dolphins frolicking in the clear waters while watching the sky turn all shades of pretty pastels.
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Highlands Hammock State Park, Sebring
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I recently visited this wild state park in Sebring, Florida, with my family, and was amazed by how it felt like a mini Everglades, but was only two hours inland from my home in Tampa. I was also surprised to learn that Highlands Hammock State Park is home to more rare and endemic species than any park in the entire state, including Florida black bears, American alligators, and Florida panthers. One of Florida’s oldest state parks dates to 1931, when it was established by the Civilian Conservation Corps. There’s a tremendous on-site museum that delves into that history and shows the conditions in which workers lived, worked, and played back then. We loved riding the tram into the most alligator-ridden reaches of the park and strolling through an old-growth cypress swamp atop an elevated boardwalk trail. Whatever you do, don’t miss a birding hike with Ranger Blake if it’s on offer the day you visit. Blake grew up in this area and has owls calling back to him. You’ll spot things you’d never see on your own.
Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Park, Wakulla Springs
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I first visited this glorious state park, about 15 miles south of Tallahassee in Florida’s Panhandle, as a college kid in town to party at Florida State University during a football weekend. Edward Ball Wakulla Springs State Parkwas the first place I ever saw manatees, and the ancient cypress swamp always proves to be a fruitful place to scout alligators. There are a ton of cool ways to experience this park, whether you opt for a guided jungle cruise on a glass-bottom riverboat, go swimming in the gin-clear waters at the springhead, or spend the night at the historic Lodge at Wakulla Springs. The latter — home to the world’s longest-known marble bar, stretching some 70 feet — dates to the 1930s.
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Sebastian Inlet State Park, Melbourne Beach
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Straddling Melbourne Beach and Vero Beach, Sebastian Inlet State Park is a haven for anyone who likes to fish, surf, or stroll the sand for miles. Many moons ago, when I dated a Florida surfer boy, we’d come here to camp at nearby Long Point Park, all the better to be up for dawn patrol when the waves were cranking just offshore from Sebastian (First Peak is considered the best surf break here, but there are gentler options for beginners, too). These days, I visit with my kids to walk the length of the pier to see what anglers are reeling in and pop into the fascinating McLarty Treasure Museum to ogle finds that have washed ashore from the 1715 Spanish treasure fleet of galleons that met its demise here during a hurricane (much of the loot is still buried in the sand somewhere offshore).
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Grayton Beach State Park, Santa Rosa Beach
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Along with Madagascar, New Zealand, and Oregon,a slight stretch of the Florida Panhandle in Walton County is one of the only places where you can find coastal dune lakes — rare geographical features of shallow water nestled into dune ecosystems. You can see some of the most beautiful examples at Grayton Beach State Park, including Western Lake, where renting a kayak or standup paddleboard to glide atop waters as smooth as glass is possible. Stay in one of the park’s cozy cabins, secreted among the tall pines, or nab one of the 59 campsites that put some of Florida’s most pristine white-sand beaches at your doorstep. Other park highlights include a 4.5-mile hiking and biking trail that meanders through a forest home to Florida black bears, gray foxes, and white-tailed deer.
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Myakka River State Park, Sarasota
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East of Sarasota, along Florida’s Gulf Coast, Myakka River State Park is a real surprise that’s home to wetlands, prairies blanketed with wildflowers come autumn, and forests dense with palms and live oaks. Every time I visit, I’m reminded of how scenic this state is. Birders like me flock to the Birdwalk, a boardwalk that winds through hammock environments to a floodplain marsh where you might hear ospreys calling overhead and spot roseate spoonbills and herons foraging the shallows for something to eat. My kids love adventuring down the Myakka Canopy Walkway, which is raised 25 feet above the ground. You can also visit the park on tram and boat tours, making it perfect for a multigenerational day trip from nearby cities like Sarasota and Tampa.
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Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, Key Biscayne
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Within minutes of downtown Miami, Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park promises sandy beaches with no development, as well as bayside hideaways for enjoying sunset drinks, like family-owned and operated bar The Cleat (my favorite spot to sip a watermelon sangria fronting No Name Harbor). When you’re not kicking back on the beach, you can rent a bike to pedal a 1.5-mile paved pathway in the park, and hike nature trails through mangrove wetlands, or grill at a picnic pavilion overlooking Biscayne Bay. This park is also known for the historic 1825 Cape Florida Lighthouse, which you can tour several days a week during guided visits.
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Ravine Gardens State Park, Palatka
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I was floored by this fascinating state park in the north Florida town of Palatka, near Jacksonville, when I happened upon it during a road trip earlier this year. The best time to visit Ravine Gardens State Park is from January through March when more than 18 types of azaleas come into peak bloom — they’re at the heart of gardens formed within the natural ravines here back in 1933 (there’s even an annual Azalea Festival held the first week of March). The park’s most unique geological formations are two “steep head ravines,” naturally cut 120 feet into the earth and formed by erosion. You can explore the park along a paved road (driving, biking, or walking) or opt to detour along trails that follow suspension bridges and stone staircases down to a spring-fed creek.
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Florida Caverns State Park, Marianna
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Drive about one hour north of Panama City to reach the only Florida state park where you can head underground to explore caves and caverns without a scuba diving tank. Guided tours take visitors into large underground spaces within the limestone cave system to ogle stalactites and stalagmites illuminated for a dazzling effect. You’ll descend 35 steps to tour a dozen different rooms, within which your guide might point out fascinating subterranean denizens, like cave crickets, bats, and salamanders. When you emerge from the cave, it’s into a beautiful hardwood forest, providing an incredible contrast between the up-top and down-below Florida worlds.
TLC once warned us “Don’t go chasing waterfalls,” but in reality, waterfalls are some of the most sought-after natural sites in the world. A waterfall can be an awe-inspiring end to a tough hike or a place to set up a picnic after taking a stroll through the forest. While there are no shortages of waterfalls on Earth, there are many you can explore in the U.S. Here are some of our favorites.
A tiny water spout that punctuates the most famous viewpoint in Big Sur, McWay Falls trickles onto a desolate golden beach, surrounded by turquoise water and pine trees clinging to craggy cliffs. Although you can’t hike down to the waterfall itself, you can see it from the McWay Falls Viewpoint, all a part of the Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. This waterfall happens to be an iconic stop on Route 1, one of America’s most famous road trips. This thin ribbon of water once fell straight into the ocean and may do so as the beach begins to erode, but today it strikes directly onto a sandy cove that was created as a result of a landslide.
Hidden away in one of the most underrated yet beautiful ecosystems in the U.S., Palouse Falls plummets from its precipice to a swirling whirlpool before connecting with Idaho’s Snake River. The Palouse region of Washington is a stunning and underrated area with rolling verdant hills in spring and amber waves in fall. Palouse Falls punctuates these otherwise barren prairies, offering up striking views and remote splendor that’s harder and harder to come by. It’s easy to view the falls from one of three paved viewing platforms, although Fryxell Overlook is the best.
Located on the Havasupai Reservation, Havasu Falls is famous for its vibrant blue-green water, which is due to minerals like calcium carbonate and magnesium. The stunning water contrasts with the rising red rock cliffs around it, creating a colorful scene that draws numerous visitors. Those who wish to take in this unique waterfall, however, should plan significantly in advance: You have to book a 3-day permit to take the 10-mile hike to the falls. While the trip isn’t for the novice hiker, it’s certainly a bucket list place to visit.
The Columbia River Gorge is a natural wonderland for hikers and features hundreds of miles of public trails for those seeking to explore the Pacific Northwest’s beauty. However, the star attraction is this 620-foot waterfall, which is active all year long. For a truly special experience, head to the falls in the spring, when wildflowers on the trail are in full bloom. Just make sure to head out early, as over two million visitors hit up the waterfall each year to take in this natural wonder.
Hawaii’s waterfalls are as plentiful as they are stunning and while some can be difficult to reach or completely elusive, Akaka Falls is both beautiful and easily accessed. Plunging a mighty 442 feet, Akaka Falls is on the Big Island’s eastern coast and is the island’s tallest waterfall that you can hike to. The pathway, a 0.8-mile set of stairs and trail, leads visitors to the falls without needing an intense trek. Lucky for hikers, this trail also reveals a second waterfall, Kahuna Falls, shrouded in jungle and mist. Those who continue along the Hilo Coast will be rewarded with even more waterfalls like Rainbow and Umauma Falls.
There are actually two waterfalls that make up the Tahquamenon Falls. The Upper Falls is one of the largest waterfalls east of the Mississippi, while four miles downstream is the Lower Falls, which consists of five smaller falls that surround a small island. The amber color of the river supplying the waterfalls comes from tannins leached from the cedar, spruce, and hemlock trees in the swamps drained by the river. As most of the Tahquamenon Falls State Park is undeveloped, you may find quite a bit of wildlife when you go hiking across this 13-acre area, including black bears, coyotes, otters, deer, foxes, porcupines, beavers, and minks.
A star attraction of Yosemite National Park, Bridalveil Falls is aptly named, resembling the elegant cascade of a bride’s wedding veil. It’s the first waterfall visitors encounter upon arriving in the Yosemite Valley, and the over 600-foot wonder can be viewed from multiple angles on different hiking trails. Although the main waterfall trail is open year-round, those who visit heed this warning: Depending on when you decide to make your trek, you may get wet! In the springtime, the stream thunders due to snowfall — and it’s so strong that it can make it challenging to access the trail. For those planning to visit during the winter months, keep in mind that the trail may be icy — though the view will be no less spectacular.
Who says waterfalls have to glisten in the sunshine? Discovered in 1928 within Lookout Mountain in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Ruby Falls is the United States’ tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public. Instead of trekking along a trail, visitors can take a glass elevator to the depths of the underground cavern to witness the 260-foot waterfall for themselves. The surrounding cave also includes stalactites and stalagmites, making this one of the most unique waterfalls in the nation.
Rushing through the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone, Yellowstone Falls is two enormous waterfalls connected by the Yellowstone River, traveling downstream from Yellowstone Lake. This waterfall is known for being festooned in rainbows, reaching across the cascades like banners in the mist. Uncle Tom’s Point is the best way to see the falls up close but Artist Point offers a picture-perfect view of the falls from down the gorge, framed in the very golden rock that gave Yellowstone its name. Winter brings an entirely different perspective to the falls as they often freeze along the edges.
Calf Creek Falls is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit within the Grand Staircase-Escalante area, and for good reason. Upon arrival, you’ll find the 126-foot waterfall cascading into super clear water. The 6.7-mile out-and-back trail is well worth the hike, even in the summer, as the mist from the waterfalls makes the area a cool reprieve from the strong Utah sun. Visitors looking to take a dip can cool off in the swimming area right below the falls. Just keep in mind that the pool is a hugely popular destination, so hitting up the trail early in the day will mean fewer crowds.
The three falls that makeup Niagara Falls are among the most famous cascades in the world and create a landmark destination in the U.S. Split along the border with Canada, this behemoth series of waterfalls see 3,160 tons of water rushing over the edge every minute. Water from four of the Great Lakes filters through this horseshoe-shaped bend in the Niagara River, making its way slowly to touch its fifth, Lake Ontario, before heading out to the Atlantic. Over 20 million visitors make the trip to Niagara Falls every year to witness its thunderous roar and see the mist rising from miles away, but these falls have been a popular tourist destination since 1812.
Can’t make the long haul to Hawaii for your vacation? Don’t worry, these tropical paradises may be the best-known islands in the U.S., but that doesn’t mean they’re the only ones. From nature sanctuaries on the East Coast to tropical islands in the Caribbean, here are 10 of the best U.S. islands that aren’t Hawaii.
Dry Tortugas, Florida
While Dry Tortugas aren’t nearly as popular as the Florida Keys, they’re some of the absolute gems of the Caribbean. Located 70 miles west of the Keys, Dry Tortugas National Park encompasses all seven islands. And if you’re looking for an untouched place with superb coral, abundant marine life, and crystal-clear waters (all of which are surrounded by pristine, protected waters), this Florida destination is the answer. The only accommodations here are the campsites on Garden Key, so make sure to bring your food and water.
Assateague Island, Maryland
If you like the sound of wild horses roaming freely on protected National Seashore, then your next trip should be to Assateague Island. This is one of the northeast’s best and offers visitors tons of fun outdoor activities. Biking is a popular way to explore the island and allows for many awesome wildlife photo opportunities. Horseback riding, canoeing, and kayaking are other favorite ways to explore Assateague. And if you visit in July you have the chance to see the “saltwater cowboys” lead the feral horses on an epic swim across the Assateague Channel.
San Juan Island, Washington
San Juan Island is about as picturesque as the Pacific Northwest gets, and boasts a wide range of activities and attractions to check out. Strolling around the historic Friday Harbor is enjoyable for those who like to browse bookstores, art galleries, boutiques, and antique shops. Outside the center, rolling farmlands, alpaca farms, and sweeping valleys can be enjoyed during a scenic car ride. San Juan Island even has its vineyard/tasting room and whale-watching tours are a common excursion in addition to hiking, biking, and kayaking.
Sapelo Island, Georgia
This state-protected barrier island in southeast Georgia is the site of the last Hog Hammock population (an African-American community) with just 47 people. Visit in October and you’ll get to participate in the annual festival as they celebrate cultural traditions with gospel choir, basket weaving, and other activities. The Sapelo Island Lighthouse is the second-oldest brick lighthouse in the country dating back to 1820. If you want to stay the night, you have a variety of options ranging from a state-run campsite to a group rental of an early 19th-century mansion, so make sure to plan.
Cuttyhunk Island, Massachusetts
Cuttyhunk still oozes with European charm more than 420 years after its settlement by the British. Eight miles west of the ever-popular Martha’s Vineyard, this quiet island is the perfect weekend getaway for couples who want to enjoy the ocean, landscape, and a whole lot of chilling. There are no bars, malls, or parking lots on Cuttyhunk, but the island provides good times nonetheless. Expect homemade ice cream, lots of fishing opportunities, a classic harbor, and some beautiful hiking trails.
Block Island, Rhode Island
This Atlantic Isle is a summer East Coast favorite. Known for its rugged beauty, Block Island is a haven for visitors and locals who appreciate the simpler things in life. Block Island brags that you’ll never have to ask for directions to the beach, because the entire 17-mile island is surrounded by them. All you have to do is walk in any direction until you hit the end of the island’s iconic windswept bluffs. Naturally, there’s a lot of outdoor fun to be had in the form of kayaking, sailing, hiking, and biking the 32 miles of trails. Not to mention horseback riding, bird watching, and snorkeling. Grab a burger or indulge in a romantic candlelit lobster dinner to cap the perfect day on Block Island.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
Situated on Lake Huron, Michigan, sits one of the nation’s unique treasures. With no cars, no chain hotels, and 80% of the island designated as a national park, Mackinac Island appeals to travelers who want to leave the modern world behind. Built in 1870, Fort Mackinac is a top attraction along with the historic downtown. Not to be missed, the Arch Rock is the most stunning natural marvel along the coast, and no visit is complete without a trip to Murdick’s Fudge. This family-owned business has been producing arguably the best fudge in the country since 1887.
Santa Catalina Island, California
This southern California island is suitable for everyone, from those wanting to be spoiled and pampered to others who just want to relax in nature – campgrounds are available all over the island for starry night-gazers. On the flip side, Catalina also has a generous number of luxury, oceanfront boutique hotels. Adventure seekers can take flight on the island’s 1,100-foot-long eco-tour zipline, or go hunting for the island’s free-roaming herd of bison. Take a glass bottom boat tour, or if you want to see what lies beneath, scuba dive to see some of the most impressive underwater kelp forests in the country.
Key West, Florida
Yes, it’s popular and everyone knows Key West, but for good reason. Noted as the southernmost city in the continental U.S., this Key is just 90 miles from the coast of Cuba. Key West is more than just a pretty face, though. It’s also teeming with history. Did you know Ernest Hemingway shacked up on Key West for 30 years? You can visit his home (now a museum) in the heart of Old Town Key West. In the late afternoon, take a stroll down funky Duval Street on your way to Mallory Square for the nightly sunset celebration. Duval is also your party and a shopping center with some notorious bars, unique boutiques, and art galleries.
Kiawah Island, South Carolina
Another East Coast paradise, Kiawah Island is a perfect blend of luxury, adventure, and everything in between. 25 miles off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina, Kiawah Island is praised for its southern hospitality and pristine nature. This island claims 10 gorgeous miles of beach, protected marshlands and forests booming with wildlife, and loads of water sports. Rent a paddleboard, surfboard, or kayak, take a guided nature tour, or set off on an independent trek. For visitors who like the finer things in life, there are five epic golf courses at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort and three luxury spas on the island. Bonus: this island’s sunrises and sunsets are second to none.
With nearly 200 countries worldwide, travelers have a wide variety of destinations for their journeys. Yet most tourists continue to head to the same destinations, frequenting the most-visited countries in the world, France, Spain, and China. Even if you consider yourself an adventurer who likes going off the beaten path, some countries are so obscure, that you’ve probably never heard of them.
If you want to blaze your trail instead of following the masses, consider these countries that only the most avid geography enthusiasts know.
Made up of just 313 square miles of land spread across 32 atolls and one coral island in the Pacific Ocean, Kiribati promises the ultimate exotic island getaway. It’s not easy to get there – from the U.S., your best option is to fly to Fiji where you’ll be able to catch a flight to Tarawa, the nation’s capital in the Gilbert Islands.
This archipelago covers a 1.4-million-square-mile area along the equator and is well worth the effort it takes to explore. Those who are prepared to rough it a bit will have the chance to swim, snorkel, and dive in remarkably clear, warm water. Avid anglers come for the huge schools of marlin, tuna, sailfish, and wahoo, while in the pristine saltwater flats, the elusive giant trevally, bonefish, and triggerfish are the targets. Visitors can also experience a unique culture, including Kiribati traditional dances that mimic the movement of frigate birds. While the vast majority of locals speak Gilbertese, a local Oceanic language, English is the nation’s official language and is also widely spoken.
Located along the Atlantic coast of Central Africa, Gabon is a French-speaking country that is often bypassed by travelers heading straight to the savannas of Tanzania or the bustling cities in South Africa. But Gabon has its own unique appeal for adventurers. Not only are you unlikely to run into many other tourists, but nearly 90% of Gabon is covered in tropical forests. Libreville is the nation’s capital and the only real city to speak of, but as soon as you leave, you’ll discover largely unspoiled wilderness with dense jungle, rushing rivers, and white sandy beaches.
There are 13 national parks in Gabon, with practically endless opportunities to observe wildlife. From witnessing the famous surfing hippos and elephants in Loango National Park to following the trails of mandrills, chimpanzees, and gorillas at Lopé National Park, a visit here can be an adventure of a lifetime. Keep in mind, that the country’s lack of infrastructure makes it best experienced via a reputable Gabon tour operator.
While many tourists flock to the French, Swiss, and Italian Alps to take advantage of some of the world’s best skiing and hiking, Andorra offers a mountain paradise many travelers have never heard about. This tiny microstate hidden in the heart of the Pyrenees between Spain and France covers just 180 square miles and offers everything anyone could need for an active or relaxed getaway.
Andorra is criss-crossed by over 100 marked hiking trails during the warmer months and in the winter is home to the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees, Grandvalira, which combines six base areas in the country’s southeast corner. After a day of play, visitors can head to one of 35 thermal springs rich in minerals known for their healing properties, like Caldea, the largest spa complex in southern Europe.
Officially called Kyrgyz Republic, but most often referred to as Kyrgyzstan, this mountainous country in Central Asia is the “Untouched Patagonia” of the region with soaring jagged peaks and brilliant blue alpine lakes. The best way to experience the nation’s rugged wildlands is on the saddle of a horse. Horse riding here dates back to the days of Genghis Khan and it’s still said that all Kyrgyz are born on a horse, though it’s becoming less common with increasing urbanization. It’s also possible to stay in one of the yurt camps to learn about the traditional nomadic way of life during the summer months, with the high-altitude lakes of Son Kul a particularly ideal spot to explore.
Visitors from North America can travel to Kyrgyzstan without a visa for up to 60 days, with the best time to come between mid-June and late September, when you’ll be able to hike and enjoy horseback trips into the mountains as well as stay at the nomadic yurt camps.
Moldova is one of the least-visited countries in the world, with just 29,000 visitors arriving in 2022. Most come out of necessity rather than intent, as the nation serves as a transit point between Romania, Belarus, Ukraine, and Russia. But those who stick around discover a unique destination with a diverse mix of friendly people and cultural activities.
Outside of Chisinau, the capital city, visitors can explore beautiful historic monasteries and authentic villages in the surrounding countryside where people have a close connection to nature and live a simple life. Wine enthusiasts won’t want to miss Milesti Mici winery with its cellars that contain more than 1.5 million bottles of wine, a Guinness World Record. Moldovan wine is highly underrated, with grapes cultivated in the region since at least 2,800 BCE.
K.C. Dermody is the author of ‘Best Travel Guide for First Time Visitors to Ireland’ and hundreds of travel articles online and in print. Currently living in Baja, Mexico, she’s traveled the world
Imagine heading down a rural lane, with trees thick on either side, and then rounding a curve and finding an old covered bridge over a rushing river. Many covered bridges in the U.S. were built in the 19th century to protect the span from weather damage. Yet, the covers gained a far more romantic meaning as these crossings became known as “kissing bridges.”
Drivers were expected to slow their horses to a walk when passing through to reduce wear on the planks, thus offering a courting couple riding the horses a chance to steal a private moment. If this image of sweethearts in buggy appeals and creates a hankering for slower, bygone days, head out for a drive or a hike to visit these beautiful, historic covered bridges.
Newfield Covered Bridge in Newfield, New York, stretches over the West Branch of Cayuga Inlet in the Finger Lakes region. Built in 1853 and spanning 115 feet in length, this bridge cost only $800 to build. Like most covered bridges of this era, the trusses were fixed together using trunnels, or wooden pins. Originally, the siding ran in a solid wall all along the bridge, but to let in more light, diamond-shaped windows were cut in the wood. Painted an unusual dark red wine color (most red bridges are painted a bright barn red), and framed by low, split-rail fencing and lush greenery, this bridge and its surrounding area beckon visitors for a summertime walk in the forest or along the water.
The Flume Covered Bridge in Franconia Notch State Park, New Hampshire, looks almost like a fairy-tale cottage with its bowed red façade and Paddleford trusses. Built-in 1871 to cross the Pemigewasset River, this 50-foot bridge, with a vertical clearance of only 11 feet, 8 inches, offers a hiker’s walkway attached on one side. Set on a curving lane amid the verdant forest, the bridge is still open to auto traffic. Plan a hike to Flume Gorge waterfall and see this historic treasure spanning the river.
Situated along the famous Vermont cheese trail, the A.M. Foster Covered Bridge near Cabot, Vermont, looks like something out of an old Western film. Utterly charming, the weathered wood siding and shingled roof seem like they might have seen any number of 19th-century events. But don’t be fooled: This covered bridge is a 1998 replica of an old farm bridge that crossed the Winooski River. Regardless of its relative newness, this bridge offers any number of incredible photo opportunities and, with just a bit of imagination, you can almost see the riders and drovers spilling from the bridge’s mouth before wending their way throughout the Vermont countryside.
The last covered bridge in South Carolina, Campbell’s Covered Bridge, near Landrum, offers romantic surroundings including verdant forests. Painted a charming bright red with a white roof, this bridge is quite short and looks almost like a little barn. Interestingly, covered bridges were purposely built to look like barns so as not to spook nervous horses. This one appears to be leaning dangerously, yet as is true of many covered bridges, Campbell’s roofline projects forward where it meets each bank over the base of the bridge. Bring a picnic to the park area, and be sure to go wading in Beaverdam Creek.
Built-in 1862 across the Ammonoosuc River in New Hampshire, the Stark Bridge looks a bit like a Victorian house with its artful façade and exposed beam-work. An entirely white exterior and roof set off this bridge beautifully against the surrounding greenery. Footwalks on either side are separated from the auto lane by natural wood-crossed trusses, lending a light, openwork feel. Next to the bridge is the charming Stark Union Church, built in 1853. Try to see this bridge in the fall when the leaves turn, or at night at Christmastime, when it’s lit against the snow and adorned with a huge wreath.
For Civil War buffs, there is no more important covered bridge than Sach’s Bridge in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, which was crossed during the Civil War by Union and Confederate soldiers alike. It was built in 1854, just a few years before the onset of the war, and is now open to foot traffic and fishing only. Lovely stone foundations at either end and an unusual style make this bridge appear almost double-decker, and the illusion is mirrored in the glassy water of Marsh Creek. Both the weathered red exterior and the picturesque area are weighted with history. And if you believe in the paranormal, Sachs Bridge is a must-see, as it is widely considered haunted. Be sure to walk through at night!
Humpback Covered Bridge in Covington, Virginia, has to be the most original covered bridge on this list, simply by virtue of its shape. True to its name, the bridge curves up over Dunlap Creek, rising four feet higher at the center than at its ends. Built in 1857 amid gorgeous Virginia greenery and boasting lovely stonework foundations at each end, this is the only bridge of its kind in the country. The fantastically curved arch bridge, for pedestrians only, looks like something out of a fairy tale and has been photographed for dozens of coffee-table books such as America’s Covered Bridges and Covered Bridges Across North America.
Artist’s Bridge, also known as the Sunday River Bridge, in Newry, Maine, features weathered wood on a charming façade, openwork crisscrossed trusses above half-sides, a lovely stony streambed, and arching trees. This venerable old bridge, built in 1872, is closed to traffic and can be procured for a wedding or other important event. Equally lovely in summer and winter, this bridge offers limitless photo opportunities. Wait for the autumn light of an afternoon and enjoy the rustling of light wind in the trees and the soft glimmer on the water.
Extremely photo-worthy, the Baltimore Covered Bridge in North Springfield, Vermont, is only 37 feet long, but what a picture it presents with its weathered wood, shingle roof, and interior lattice trusses. Built in 1870 to cross Great Brook, it was moved in 1970 to its current location next to the Eureka Schoolhouse, which dates back to about 1790 and has also been moved and restored as a historic landmark. This little bridge is well worth a visit.
Crossing the West Branch of the Delaware River is Fitch’s Covered Bridge, just a few miles from Delhi, New York. Built in 1870, it was moved to its present site of Fitch’s Crossing in 1885 — you can still see the markings made on the top chord piece of each truss just before the move to ensure a perfect rebuild. Set against rolling green hills and blue sky, this weathered brown bridge recalls an earlier day, when horse-drawn carriages would appear out of the darkened interior.
The Goodpasture Covered Bridge near Vida, Oregon, is unusual for its 20 louvered windows along the span, which allow enough light into the interior to keep it bright despite the solid white siding. Set amid gorgeous fall foliage and with the McKenzie River burbling beneath rocky cobbles, this bridge is a photographer’s dream. An exceptional 165-foot-long span, it was built in 1938 and restored in 1987 to accommodate continuing auto traffic. During the Holiday Farm wildfire of 2020, the bridge was assumed lost, but it miraculously escaped the flames.
The Black Warrior River in Blount County, Alabama, is crossed by the Horton Mill Covered Bridge. Seventy feet over the water, it is the highest bridge over a waterway in the country. With beautiful weathered wood siding halfway up, and latticework above, the bridge can be enjoyed close up on a drive-through, and with only one lane and a speed limit of five miles per hour, there’s no rushing it. With its crisscross, open trusses, and low-gabled roof, it will remind visitors of a fanciful, old-fashioned finger trap — the kind that kids find at carnivals or an old five-and-dime. Oozing atmosphere against a backdrop of forest and set over granite slabs along the river, this bridge offers much for photographers and day trippers.
Built originally on the Hyde Hall private estate, the Hyde Hall Covered Bridge in Springfield, New York, is now part of the beautifully named Glimmerglass State Park. The oldest existing covered bridge in the U.S., it was built in 1825 using the Burr Arch design and is unusual for its horizontal siding. Found at the northernmost tip of Otsego Lake, the deep weathered brown bridge is brimming with nostalgia. A picnic along the grassy banks next to the water will refresh the soul.
Found in Parke County, Indiana, the Portland Mills Covered Bridge was built in 1856 to afford a crossing of Big Racoon Creek. It was moved to Little Racoon Creek in 1961 and was further restored in 1996. Painted white from top to bottom and with several sets of windows along its sides, it resembles a vintage white barn. The shimmering creek and lush greenery beg for a streamside picnic complete with romantic photos.
In Comer, Georgia, the Watson Mill Covered Bridge, within a state park of the same name, crosses the South Fork River. Built in 1885, the bridge employs a lattice truss system visible only from the inside, as the outside is covered in weathered wood siding that calls up images of an earlier century. Viewed from downstream, the bridge appears to sit directly atop a waterfall, as the river flows under the bridge and over a relatively short but sheer, rocky drop. A vantage point nearer the bridge itself, however, reveals a perfect mirror image in the glassy pool just beneath its span.
Jen is a writer, English teacher, reader, traveler, yogi, Reiki master, gardener, family gal, dog whisperer, and lover of bawdy jokes. When she is not reflecting on her inner life, she is wondering what’s around the next bend, seeking experiences and new vistas as fodder for stories and articles.
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Allyn Maycumber Broker/Associate ERA Grizzard
Allyn Maycumber ERA Grizzard Realty Broker/Associate
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