Is it possible to balance adventure travel with a little R&R? Getting back into traveling can be a little daunting and may send most minds spiraling into a chaotic blackhole of all the gritty details that go into a trip. Prepping, planning and researching is a lot of work - and you haven’t even gone anywhere yet! And since when has the word adventure been associated with relaxation?
Well, we have quite a treat for you. Let us help out with the details, so you can relax and recharge. On top of that, we’ll share our favorite low-key trips for women looking for a rejuvenating adventure experience!
If travel is your happy place, you’re probably itching to get back out into the great big world. Even though travel will look different in 2021, we think it’s one of the best ways to delve into a little 'you' time.
There's a ton of reasons why travel is the perfect way to relax after a stressful year. What does a rejuvenating adventure offer you? A chance to shake up your routine, take a break from a constant slew of notifications, and time to find peace in the outdoors.
Switching up your routine = instant refresh
Switching up your routine is a great way to reset and refresh. Being stuck doing the same thing day in and day out is super draining! Sure, we were able to get creative with what we got up to in 2020, but it’s time to shake things up a bit. Staying at home is great until it’s not.
Adventure travel is the perfect antidote to the routine you’ve been bogged down by. And, you can experience new things you wouldn’t normally treat yourself to, like wine tastings, spa days, and wildlife exploration.
Unplug to recharge
Putting your phone on “do not disturb” is one thing - but not having cell service can be a service to your mental health. Although most of our more relaxing adventures do have cell service available, we encourage women to take this time as a much-needed technology detox.
Getting in touch with nature is a great way to relieve stress, and isn’t wandering through the forest listening to birds more appealing than listening to the news?
Put aside the things that worry you back home and connect with yourself. This is 'you' time, so give yourself the mental space to prioritize your needs.
Take the stress out of travel - let us plan an adventure for you
Being on vacation gives you the space and mindset to recharge, rejuvenate, take your mind off of all the stressors that might be back at home. According to a 2013 study, more than 80% of Americans surveyed, noticed significant drops in stress just after a day or two of traveling. This of course, doesn’t take into account the pre-trip coordination that is required. That’s why we would like to take the reins here and plan the perfect getaway for you. No need to stress!
7 best trips for a relaxing adventure
Because we all need a little vacation.
Exploring New Mexico - Land of Enchantment
It’s no surprise that the Land of Enchantment is here to bring you joy. Stunning desert landscapes, breathtaking mountains, and a very famous river will welcome you on this cultural and outdoor adventure. We get a taste of it all (cuisine included). A little hiking here, a touch of rafting there, and some fantastic art in Sante Fe bring it all together. New Mexico has a mix of European American, Native American, and Mexican heritage, making the state a unique and colorful place to visit. This already relaxing trip culminates in the opportunity to visit Ten Thousand Waves, a Japanese-style health spa with hot tubs situated on the side of the mountain. Take that, troubles! Prepare to get washed away!
Harpers Ferry Holiday
This historic town in West Virginia is a wonderful place to breathe in the fresh spring air, learn some history, and enjoy time with new friends at the Blue Mountain Retreat. This trip offers spectacular views of the confluence of the Shenandoah and Potomac Rivers, a hike down an old military road leftover from the Civil War, and gentle canoe trips down a rippling canal. Enjoy the simple beauty of flowering trees, and temperatures in the 60s and 70s. There is no better place for an active and relaxing long weekend getaway.
Fall in the Great Smokies
Yes, there will be white water rafting, but there will also be peaceful autumn hikes through the fall foliage. Visiting this National Park should be on any park lovers bucket list, as it is designated both an International Biosphere Reserve and a World Heritage Site. This trip is the perfect choice for a “choose your own adventure”, with plenty of options for daily activities. Take an afternoon to relax at the lodge, or hike to Grotto Falls and chase waterfalls for the day. Maybe you’ll go zip lining - it’s your vacation! Explore cultural history by day, and relax in a luxurious lodge perched on a mountainside by night. Enjoy the hot tub with your new friends, and retire to your private bedroom for a restful night’s sleep.
San Juan Islands Exploration
Get outside and try something new! This adventure will take you sea-kayaking, hiking, and even ziplining. The San Juan Islands are well-known as one of the best sea kayaking places in America, but they also offers charming small towns, a rich human history, diverse marine and bird wildlife, and scenic hiking excursions. You’ll have the rare opportunity to learn to sail a traditional schooner during a full-day private sailing trip. But don’t worry - no previous experience is needed. That’s the beauty of trying something new. As you sail and kayak through the waters, you’ll learn from onboard naturalists about the orcas, otters, seals, porpoises, and a plethora of other sea life and aquatic birds that you find yourself sharing the waves with.
White Mountain Holiday
Explore the White Mountains of New Hampshire for a chance to revel in the beauty of the natural world. This trip is for women who want to enjoy the many different facets of New Hampshire’s White Mountains by foot, water, and bike. Although days will be full of activity. The option to relax at the hostel is always a possibility. Paddling down the Pemi at a peaceful pace will give you time to enjoy the scenery. And, of course, no trip to White Mountain would be complete without a visit to Polly’s Pancake Parlor. Enjoy Polly’s famous homemade pancakes topped with New Hampshire maple syrup. Can’t get much sweeter than that!
Waterfalls, Wildflowers, and Wineries
The Appalachian Trail isn’t just for thru-hikers! If you’re AT-curious but not up for the long haul, this is a perfect way to sample this beautiful, culturally rich part of the country. But we know why you’re really here - did someone say wineries? This trip includes private wine-tastings and vineyard adventures. Learn all about how to discern your wine palate by tasting several varieties in several locations… you’ll practically be a sommelier by the end!
Arizona Sonoran Desert Sampler
Tanque Verde Ranch is a spectacular slice of paradise. You’ll get a chance to do something new each day, from hiking to horseback riding, to cultural exploration. Spend time in the historic town of Tubac, which was founded as a presidio, or fort, in 1752 as the Spanish empire expanded into the desert Southwest. Today, Tubac is a thriving artist community with over 100 galleries, shops, and great restaurants. Art galleries, museums, and quaint shops are all on the agenda, with margaritas and great cuisine available along the way! Oh, and did we mention a spa option?
It’s time to recharge: book your next adventure
No need to wait or worry - start planning your recharge with AGC. Let us sort out the deets so you can put up your feet!
Click here to check out our Calendar of Adventures
