Reader Recs: Long Weekend Getaways

It can be difficult to find time for a long trip, but that shouldn’t keep you from exploring the world. Take a break from reality (and an excuse to use up one of those vacation days) with a three-day getaway.

Here are a few suggestions from our Nat Geo Travel Facebook fans to inspire your weekend wanderlust:

Looking for a room with a view? Then Beverly M. suggests a long-weekend excursion to Montauk, located at the tip of Long Island’s South Fork peninsula, for its range of activities, including fishing, whale-watching, and horseback riding, as well as the delicious seafood restaurants. If you decide to make the trip, be sure to visit New York’s first lighthouse and catch the sunset over Lake Montauk, she adds.

“My favorite long weekend getaway is Margaret River,” writes Jelena S., and with one click of the mouse it’s easy to see why. This picturesque coastal town is regarded as one of the premier food and wine regions in Western Australia, but the draw does’t end there. Amazing beaches, cliffs tailor-made for rock climbing, and karri forests—which are home to one of the tallest trees in the world—make Margaret River the perfect place to spend a weekend no matter what type of traveler you are.

Adams, Massachusetts, and the Topia Inn get Deb R.’s vote for best weekend oasis. “The eco[-friendly] inn and its owners are wonderfully special,” she writes. With hiking, biking, swimming, and shopping all at your fingertips, it’s no wonder this spot makes the list. Reader Tip: If you’re a freshwater fan, make sure to “ask the owners about an awesome wooded mountain lake.”

If South America is accessible for a long weekend, Nani R. suggests a trip to Tayrona National Natural Park. Beaches, mangrove swamps, coral reefs, and dry forests (which are often mistaken for rain forests) can all be found in this ecologically diverse park in the Caribbean region of Colombia. Nani swears you’ll never forget a trip to this protected wonderland.

Crystal R., yet another fan of the world’s national parks, added Yosemite to our list. What makes it so great? “There is a good variety of day hikes available within a short distance, plenty of wildlife to photograph, and some really spectacular views to enjoy,” Crystal writes. As if that wasn’t enough reason to visit, swimming, river tubing, hiking, and kayaking are just a taste of the outdoor activities you can enjoy in this California park, with or without kids in tow.

Whistler is next in our roundup, thanks to Bo M., who enjoys spending time in the great outdoors. Whether you’re hoping to spend a day hiking or biking in the mountains of British Columbia or relaxing on a lake, this Canadian resort town has you covered.

Maribel G. points to Granada, Spain, as a great escape. The city’s location in the shadow of the Sierra Nevadas and less than 60 miles from the coast means that you could just as easily go swimming in the ocean or hiking in the mountains for the day and be back in time to enjoy Granada’s nightlife. Plus, “there are no words to describe how beautiful La Alhambra is,” Maribel writes of Granada’s famous medieval castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Last but not least, Debbi R. recommends Palm Springs, California, owing to its world-class golfing, beautiful resorts, and great restaurants. “There are great hiking trails through the canyons that lead to tropical oases fed by hot springs,” she adds. While you’re there, be sure to experience the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway, which gives you spectacular 360-degree views from a whopping 12,000 feet.

Megan Heltzel is an associate producer on National Geographic Travel’s digital team. Follow her on Twitter @MeganHeltzel.

What destination do you recommend visiting for a long weekend? Leave your answer in the comments section for a chance to appear on Intelligent Travel.

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