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Need some inspiration to fill up next year’s calendar? From tiny islands to unforgettable hiking and ancient geology, these destinations will inspire adventurous spirits and even the most seasoned of travelers. Here are four thrilling places and experiences to get on the books for 2024.
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1. Explore small islands along Scotland’s west coast
Image by Francesca Riccardo Iacomino
Time to visit: Spring
Every island in Scotland is unique, and it is worth taking the time to explore a few of the smaller isles. The coastline is home to around 790 islands, many of which can be reached by ferry.
In Scotland, wild camping is permitted on most unenclosed land, if you respect the countryside and leave no trace. This means that you can pack up your campervan or tent, drive onboard a ferry, and experience remote, island life.
On the Isle of Jura, just a few miles north of the whisky-loving Isle of Islay, wild deer outnumber people. So, you’re guaranteed a peaceful escape from the real world. The writer, George Orwell, spent time on Jura in the 1940s, and this is where he wrote his famous novel 1984. The world-famous Jura whisky is made here at the Isle of Jura Distillery, and there is one pub on the island.
Further up the coastline, the Isle of Raasay lies slightly south of the famous Isle of Skye. Raasay is a perfect small island to explore and has a mountain peak to climb, Dun Caan, plus you can gaze upon beautiful views of Skye’s Cuillin mountain range.
2. Hike through Corsica, France
Image by Steve Smith
Time to visit: Summer
Another island adventure awaits on Corsica, a mountainous region off the coast of France. With a warm summer Mediterranean climate, the rugged landscape makes for a great hiking destination, but visitors can also enjoy incredible French food, charming coastal towns, and fascinating history.
The GR 20 Trail stretches from the north to the south of the island and traverses through the heart of Corsica. This is one of the most challenging hiking routes in Europe, thanks to Corsica’s rocky terrain. Connecting the villages of Calenzana and Calvi, the trail weaves through pine forests, beautiful waterfalls, and gorgeous scenery. It can be completed in small sections, or you can embark on the full 180-km route, which takes around 15 days. There are mountain huts to stay in along the way.
There are several gentler hikes to enjoy in Corsica, including the lovely Napoleon Trail, which starts from the capital, Ajaccio. The Mare a Mare Sud is another easier option, which will introduce you to some of Corsica’s best beaches, passing a variety of coastal landscapes and lush valleys.
3. Discover ‘Sedona’s Secret 7’ in Arizona, USA
Image by Steve Smith
Best time to visit: Fall
Arizona might already be on your list for 2024, with its sunny climate and clear blue skies. Sedona is a stunning spot in northern Arizona that is a popular spot for epic trekking, with its iconic red rocks, fascinating geology, and otherworldly landscapes. From canyons to caves, there are endless places to explore.
Sedona’s Secret 7, a campaign from the Sedona Tourism Board, explores some of the lesser-traveled paths through “Red Rock Country,” covering seven themes. These include hiking, biking, vistas, picnics, stargazing, arts and culture, and the journey of the Indigenous Peoples. There’s a total of 49 hidden gems to discover, scattered across the greater Sedona area.
For lovers of the great outdoors, fall is the perfect time to discover Sedona. You’ll experience pleasant temperatures for hiking, and there are several places to see colorful fall foliage, including Oak Creek Canyon.
4. Take to the blue seas of Belize
Image by Schafer & Hill
Best time to visit: Winter
For a Caribbean escape like no other, consider the blue skies and azure waters of Belize. The best time to visit Belize is from late November to mid-April, during the dry season.
One of the best ways to discover this tropical paradise is by sailboat. With a network of 450 isolated cayes (islands) to explore, the favorable winds, warm temperatures, and calm waters make it a sailor’s dream. You can find many yachting experiences in Belize depending on your budget and sailing abilities, including charters with Dream Yacht Worldwide.
On land and at sea, Belize has so much to uncover—from the ancient Mayan ruins along the The Mayan Trail to the world’s second-longest unbroken barrier reef. A haven for scuba diving and snorkeling, the Caribbean seas are bursting with exotic marine life, with dolphins, sting rays, fish, and rare coral aplenty. The Blue Hole Natural Monument and Glover’s Reef are two underwater experiences you’ll never forget.
Where are you heading in 2024? Let us know in the comments.
