This summer, it’s all about reconnection – with wild spaces, meaningful moments, and cultural gems making travel unforgettable. From redwood forests to the rooftop of Africa, here’s where I’ve been recently or heading to soon – and maybe where you’ll want to go too.
European Outdoor Escape
Slovenia blends alpine adventures with Old World charm. Explore Ljubljana, a vibrant capital with castle views and a car-free city centre. Stay riverside at The Hotel. Venture to Velika Planina for a scenic cable car ride, chairlift, and hike to Shepherds Village in the Slovenian Alps. Try basket weaving in Ribnica followed by a salami tasting at BioSing. Bike through virgin forest in Kosčevska. Soak in geothermal waters at Hotel Balnea in Dolenjske Toplice. Mountain bike at Gače then canoe the Kolpa River. Stay in a cabin at Camping Bela Krajina-Podzemelj or book a luxury tent at Glamping Kolpa Resort. Slovenia is small, but outdoor enthusiast’s dream.
National Parks Road Trip
From America’s oldest trees to its deepest lake and hydrothermal areas, Circle of Discovery loops seven National Park Service units in northern California and southern Oregon. From Redding head west to see the towering giants of Redwood National and State Parks, then up to Oregon Cave National Monument. Marvel at the vivid blue water of Crater Lake National Park, then head south to Lava Beds and Tule Lake National Monuments for eerie volcanic beauty and WWII history. Soak in nature’s power and serenity of volcanic landscapes and alpine lakes at Lassen Volcanic National Park. Stay at Sheraton Redding at the Sundial Bridge and kayak in Whiskeytown National Recreational Area for a perfect 3-4 day trip.
Summer Festivals in the Rockies
Summer is festival season for mountain towns in the Rockies. GoPro Mountain Games in Vail, Colorado, are the ultimate convergence of adventure sports, music, and mountain town charm. Watch dog competitions, kayak races, and climbing challenges. Slow it down with a stroll through the Betty Ford Alpine Gardens, the highest botanical garden in North America, or Sunday mornings at Vail Farmers’ Market running from mid-June through early October.
Costa Rican Zen Retreat
Surf Synergy in Costa Rica offers a boutique wellness escape blending surf, yoga, and jungle vibes. Mornings start with waves and warrior poses. Afternoons are for jungle hikes, beach walks, or hammock naps. Evenings bring coastal sunsets and delectably nourishing dinners. You’ll return refreshed, and not just from a tan.
Rooftop of Africa and Safari Wonderment
Mount Kilimanjaro has been calling, and I’m answering with Dr. Jon’s Adventures. This is my second major trek with my close friend Jon – we did Everest Base Camp in 2022. After summiting Africa’s tallest peak, I’m heading on safari with Adam Clements Safari Trackers to explore the flamingo-filled shores of Lake Natron, the largest crater in the world at wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater, and the iconic Serengeti. To unwind with barefoot luxury, Doug MacDonald can craft the perfect safari beach escape to Zanzibar or Anvil Bay in Mozambique.
Whether you’re cruising scenic byways, swimming in saltwater, or chasing summit dreams, let this summer be your season to explore boldly and breathe deeply.
Written By: Jennifer Broome
