1 Wild west
Hidden beneath the crystalline waves of Western Australia’s Coral Bay is a wonderland of marine wildlife waiting to be discovered. From turtles and whales to dolphins, dugongs, manta rays and reef sharks, the pristine waters are an idyllic escape for swimmers, snorkellers and divers alike. To experience the best of the region, embark upon a five-night Ningaloo Reef Tour aboard Shore Thing, a beautifully-appointed 15-metre catamaran with cabins and staterooms to accommodate up to 10 guests.
The Roger Hill-designed vessel traverses the sea with ease, boasting a stable platform perfect for venturing into shallow inner-reef lagoons. Guests can kick back and relax on the forward deck and its shaded trampoline zone, or perch beside the captain at the helm for a birds-eye view of Ningaloo Reef. The on-board saloon and alfresco rear deck provide ample space for socialising and dining. All meals, snacks and equipment are provided for a worry-free vacation.
Hosted by Sail Ningaloo, the cruise navigates 70 kilometres of calm waters from the coral formations of Coral Bay and the thriving ecosystem of Bateman Bay, on to the historical ruins of the Norwegian Bay whaling station. Hear tragic tales of the shipwrecks on the reef before exploring the locale by snorkelling, scuba diving or kayaking along the secluded coastline. It’s a unique experience for passengers as Sail Ningaloo is one of the only operators with access to these preserved natural areas.
The bays are home to curious critters that skim or frolic on or below the surface, and during the humpback whale migration season from June to October, you may even catch a glimpse of the gentle giants swimming alongside Shore Thing.
As the sun sets on each day, guests are invited to review their experiences and photos with fellow passengers and crew. Discuss the day’s animal encounters and learn how to interact with marine life with expert guidance, ensuring an enriching and rewarding journey for all walks of life.
2 Reach new heights
Few could walk among the dramatic plunging waterfalls, sky-high granite cliffs and giant sequoias of California’s Yosemite National Park and not leave a changed person. While it’s famed for its hikes, people have been rock climbing here since the late 60s. The appeal? Adrenalin alone as you reach the highest peaks in the park. Join a climbing class (they meet daily) and you’ll soon be scaling this pristine locale with ease and soaking it up from a whole new perspective. yosemite.com
3 Foiling in Fiji
Foiling is taking off in surf breaks around the world. If you want to learn to foil, or improve your technique, head to Namotu in Fiji. A tiny slice of palm-fringed paradise, Namotu is a huge aquatic playground that offers foil and surf programmes offering everything you could possibly need. Sign up for the Surf and Foil Camps with Matt Wilkinson and Adam Bennetts, with unlimited use of surfboats to get out to the famous breaks around Namotu, a surf guide, professional filming, use of Fliteboards, as well as the delights of this exquisite island. namotuislandfiji.com
4 Wandering in the Jungfrau
The Jungfrau Region in Switzerland boasts 500 kms of well-maintained and signposted trails in this jagged-peaked, green-carpeted wonderland. Take the 1.5 hour trail from Männlichen to Kleine Scheidegg, enveloped by majestic mountains, or tackle the two-hour downhill walk from the Jungfrau railway station at the Eiger Glacier to Kleine Scheidegg. This walk takes you from the famous wall of rock that is the North Face of the Eiger, down along its base with striking views. Another wonderful choice is the Lauberhorn Trail from the postcard-perfect village of Wengen up to Kleine Scheidegg. myswitzerland.com; mystsnet.com
5 Classic rides
From the pristine waters of Botswana’s Okavango Delta to the lush grasslands of Kenya’s Masai Mara, the striking landscape of Namibia and vibrant Rajasthan, The Classic Safari Company's luxury horse riding holidays will see you saddle up for an active and exhilarating safari through stunning scenery. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or simply an adventurous thrill seeker looking to gallivant in thrilling style, The Classic Safari Company's itineraries, led by experienced guides and staying in luxurious lodges and camps, offer a unique and unforgettable safari experience. classicsafaricompany.com.au
6 Stay, play and stargaze in Flagstaff
Known as the City of
