Witnessing the world’s most scenic destinations has always been a luxury unto itself; but accessing them doesn’t have to mean roughing it. Top-tier properties and outfitters are taking outdoor excursions to the next level with high-end equestrian and fly fishing escapes, luxe glamping and ranch stays, and more ways to explore the globe’s rugged beauties. Whether you’re inspired by a via a high-intensity cycling trip through the Italian Dolomites, a fly-fishing trip in Patagonia’s Torres Del Paine National Park, a tree-climbing trek in the woods of Willamette National Forest, or a jaunt through the Scottish countryside on horseback, we’ve picked out the best places to reconnect with the great outdoors, and the top excursions to try upon arrival.
Hunting + Fishing
The Best Hotel Hunting and Fishing Excursions
Luxe, hands-on adventures in some of the world’s most beautiful locales bring a contemporary flair to classic outdoorsman activities. See the slideshow »
A Truffle Hunting Journey in Provence
In the Luberon, writer Casey Hatfield joins a Franco-American couple as they demystify one of the world’s most exclusive ingredients. »
Where to Go Fly Fishing in Argentina
Limay River, a fly-fishing heaven in northern Patagonia that’s teeming with rainbow trout, has always been difficult to access. But Limay River Lodge is changing that. »
Book Now: A Fly-Fishing Lodge Outside Buenos Aires
Just a few hours north of the city in Patagonia’s Paraná Delta, the Delta Lodge is an idyllic escape for passionate fly fishers. »
From the Archives: Abercrombie and Kent: The Last Hunt
Geoffrey Kent, cofounder of the storied safari outfitter, ruminates on the moment he put down the rifle for good. »
From the Archives: The Fox Hunt Diaries
Roadfood authors Jane and Michael Stern tell a story of a one-of-a-kind marriage, divorce, aspiration, and Anglophilia. »
Cycling, Horseback Riding, and More
10 Scenic Cycling Tours to Book Now
Top two-wheel journeys for taking in sweeping vistas, from Oregon wine country to Portugal’s Douro Valley. See the slideshow »
Rafting Idaho's River of No Return
The Middle Fork of the state’s Salmon River is known for its wildlife, daredevil rapids, and pristine wilderness. But where have all the Chinook salmon gone? »
Out on a Limb: Climbing Old-Growth Trees in Oregon
In the state’s Willamette National Forest, adventurers go to great heights—160 feet, to be exact—for a view. Are you crazy enough to dine (and even sleep) up in a Douglas fir? »
America’s Top Equestrian Escapes
These 11 horseback riding destinations give riders of every level an extraordinarily chic home base from where to practice their skills. See the slideshow »
Top Equestrian Vacations in England, Ireland, and Scotland
From forested trails around Ireland’s Ashford Castle to state-of-the-art indoor facilities at Gleneagles, these 10 horseback riding holidays suit riders of all stripes. See the slideshow »
Destinations
8 Luxe Guest Ranches to Visit
These rustic resorts throughout North America take the fantasy of the American West to the next level. See the slideshow »
Let's Go Glamping!
From Ecuador to Italy, these 10 luxury camps from offer excellent adventures (and five-star perks) in the most stunning, unspoiled locations. See the slideshow »
The World’s Best Luxury Farm Stays
At one time, a farm stay would have meant basic accommodations and simple fare. No longer. Reconnect with nature at these 13 stunning rural escapes. See the slideshow »
How to Do U.S. National Parks, Without the Crowds
We enlisted a slew of superintendents, rangers, conservationists, and experts to discover the best ways to get off the beaten path in the 88 million National Park Service acres. See the slideshow »
Top-Tier Tree-House Hotels
These aboveground dwellings are elevated in more ways than one. See the slideshow »
10 Perfect Summer Mountain Towns to Visit
These mountain locales offer new reasons to hit the slopes—long after the snow has melted. See the slideshow »
Home on His Range: Ted Turner's Casa Grande
A look back at DEPARTURES’s exclusive peek inside the transformation of Ted Turner’s private house in New Mexico, Casa Grande, into a luxury lodge—and why the property matters in the American West. »
