Matador Network's Blog, page 108

Researchers Just Found Something Amazing Under One of the World’s Most Well-Known Ancient Sites

Even if you’ve never been to the Middle East, you may be familiar with an ancient archaeological site in Jordan called “Al Khazneh,” — at least if you’re a fan of Hollywood blockbusters. Because Al Khazneh, which translates to “The Treasury,” was a backdrop for one of the 1980’s biggest movie hits: Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade. Though the UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the “New Seven Wonders of the World” has more than 800 historical buildings, it’s the Treasury, carved into a towering sandstone rock face between two high cliffs in the ancient city of Petra, Jordan, that often strikes visitors at the most dramatic.

But researchers just discovered something extremely unexpected under the heavily visited and heavily studied site: a hidden tomb that contained 12 completely intact human skeletons. Like the site itself, the tomb and skeletons likely date more than 2,000 years back to the ancient Nabataean civilization, which flourished between the fourth century BCE and first century CE. The tomb was found in August 2024 and recently announced by St. Andrews University in Scotland. The Petra discovery was made somewhat by accident using electromagnetic and ground-penetrating radar while scientists were studying the earth beneath the temple to plan for future flood mitigation projects.

 

 

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As significant as discovering 12 skeletons in a secret burial chamber under a country’s most well-known attraction may be, the news gets even more fascinating. Finding one skeleton, let alone 12, is extremely rare in Petra –most recently discovered chambers have contained just pieces of artifacts or a few skeleton fragments, save for two skeletons found more 20 years ago near Al Khazneh. But it’s also yet another piece in an ongoing mystery, since researchers know very little about the Nabateans who built Petra.

Archaeologists do know that Petra was a center of trade in the Middle East before it was invaded by Romans in the second century CE, but significant aspects of the Nabatean social structure, daily life, cultural beliefs, and religious practices remain elusive, due to both limited written records and fragmented archaeological findings. As of 2024, some scientists estimate that up to 85 percent of Petra’s buildings and monuments could still be buried beneath the sand.

Researchers are hoping the discovery will shed new light on Petra and his people who built it. Photo: trabantos/Shutterstock

Though the building is called “The Treasury,” the building was most likely a mausoleum. The title “Al Khazneh” comes from the local Bedouin people, who named it based on a legend that it contained ancient treasure. According to a lead researcher on the Petra discovery, archaeologists will continue to study both the tomb and the remains to try to learn more about the burial practices and customs of Nabataean society. Since a Petra discovery like this has never been made before, what researchers learn could expand — or completely rewrite — the historical narrative of Petra and its people.

And if that wasn’t an interesting enough twist, one researchers shared another fascinating fact about the discovery: one of the skeletons was found holding a ceramic jar with both hands — not unlike the famous scene in the 1989 Indiana Jones film. It wasn’t a chalice, like in the movie, a researcher told Al Jazeera News. “But it had an uncanny resemblance to the movie prop from the Indiana Jones film as it was being excavated,” he added. —

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Things We Love: The Matador Team’s 12 Favorite Pieces of Travel Gear and More This Month

The leaves are dropping along with the temperatures. That means it’s time to gear up for shoulder season adventures. Whether you’re planning a weekend camping trip, a hiking expedition, or an international getaway, this travel gear comes with the stamp of approval from Matador editors and is sure to have you ready for anything the season throws your way.

We hope you love the gear Matador editors recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase.

Roark Dog Ear Camper Hat and Hebrides JacketPhoto courtesy RoarkPhoto courtesy Roark

I’ve traveled the world wearing Roark clothes for the past decade. When ordering the next season’s wardrobe online, I trust no other brand to the same caliber – I know I’m going to like what arrives, and I know it’s going to perform well under daily duress. Fall weather is here – and winter is coming, and for this upcoming set of months I acquired the Roark Dog Ear Camper ($52) and the Roark Hebrides Jacket (I went with Kaffa, $165). Each is perfect for fall camping, and, as I’ve discovered, for early morning dog walks at home when the mountain air is crisp and cool. Both are sure to accompany me on this winters’ snowboard trips, as well. -Tim Wenger, Transactional Content Editor

Shop Roark Dog Ear Camper

Shop Roark Hebrides Jacket

Free Fly Apparel Men’s Tradewind Pant

Photo courtesy Free Fly Apparel

I found Free Fly Apparel earlier this year and can’t believe how much I’ve come to thrust them. I wore their Reverb shorts all summer and into fall for everything from hiking to the gym to camping, and just this month switched to the Tradewind Pant. So far I’ve worn the pants camping, on two travel days, to a decently nice restaurant, and to a Denver Broncos game – just to give a perspective on the pants’ versatility. They fit like jeans but wear like trail pants, in that they’re comfy and have but form without sacrificing durability for wearing in the outdoors. The pants pair well with t-shirts, button-downs, or a bigger jacket. I’ve yet to find a scenario where they’re out of place or awkward, and given Free Fly’s track record with Matador editors, I’d be surprised if one comes along. -Tim Wenger, Transactional Content Editor

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DoD Uma Folding Carry Wagon and Folding Table TopPhoto: Tim WengerPhoto courtesy Tim Wenger

It’s interesting to think that a wagon is the most versatile piece of gear I’ve added to my setup this year, but to understand why, have a gander at my current situation: I’m a dad, an avid camper, and someone who seems to always be moving something from one side of my yard to the other or purging a pile of old stuff to take to the thrift store. The name DoD chose for this contraption I got – the Uma Folding Wagon and Folding Table Top – doesn’t do justice to how versatile it is.

To gain that understanding you must look at a photo of it. It’s a collapsible wagon strong enough to fill up with gear that has a removable pad to make it comfortable for kiddos. When parked, you put the removable solid oak wooden table top into place atop the wagon and it magically becomes a table. I cart my three-year-old daughter around town and campsites in this wagon regularly, and when camping it doubles as the dinner buffet. The wheels move in all directions and pull across uneven ground with ease. Each experience with the Uma Folding Wagon and Folding Table Tophas me convinced I need more Japanese innovation in my life. -Tim Wenger, Transactional Content Editor

Buy Uma Folding Wagon – $149

Buy Uma Folding Table Top – $99

Satechi Passport Cover with Apple Find My

Photo courtesy Satechi

Believe it or not, despite my record of visiting 68 countries, I am an anxious traveler. This is partly thanks to COVID-19 lockdowns, and to be honest, I get nervous now in any environment where there are many people. And when I get stressed, I lose everything. Recently, I tried out the new Satechi passport cover, which uses the same technology found in Apple AirTags to connect your passport to your phone. If you misplace your passport, you can easily locate it using the Find My app or hit the button on your phone and hear it chirp away. I did this several times in transit on a recent flight to Norway. When my anxiety kicks in, I tend to do a frantic check that I still have everything with me. I loved clicking that button and confirming that my passport was exactly where I left it, safe in the inside pocket of my rucksack. Beyond its tracking capabilities, Satechi’s passport cover is nice to look at and touch. It’s made of durable vegan leather and offers RFID shielding to protect your cards from unauthorized scanning. It also provides ample space for your passport, boarding passes, and other travel essentials.

Read the full review of Satechi Passport Cover hereBuy Now – $56.99ExpressVPN

Photo: FellowNeko/Shutterstock

As a seasoned digital nomad, I’ve learned that having the right tech tools can make all the difference. ExpressVPN is a game-changer for those living and working location independently. This VPN service secures your internet connection and grants access to geo-restricted content. It’s like having a passport to the digital world. With strong encryption, a no-logs policy, and a vast server network, ExpressVPN ensures your online activities remain private and secure. Plus, its media streamer function is a lifesaver for accessing your favorite shows and movies from anywhere in the world. While the subscription may be a bit pricier than some competitors, the peace of mind and convenience it offers are well worth the investment. If you’re a digital nomad, ExpressVPN is a must-have tool. – Katie Scott Aiton, Lifestyle Editor

Read the full review of ExpressVPN hereLearn more about ExpressVPNThe Cardprotector by Carl Friedrik

Photo courtesy Carl Friedrick

When I was in Santiago, Chile, I got that dreaded alert from my bank. Someone had spent over $2000 at a hotel and tried to purchase something at the Apple store. As I scrambled to check where my bank card was, I found it safe in my wallet. I’m pretty sure my card had been skimmed. I don’t know where this occurred. Perhaps it was the classic scam in a taxi card reader, in a store, or by someone at a bus stop.

To help avoid this in the future, I use this card protector by Carl Friedrik. I also wanted something streamlined and chic. Made from high-quality aluminum wrapped in vachetta leather, this neat device has a slim, lightweight design that easily fits into my pocket. The interior is lined with a soft, protective material that prevents cards from scratching or bending. Despite its compact size, it can comfortably accommodate up to five cards and a clever mechanism allows you to slide them in and out easily. There’s also a discreet slot on the back where you can tuck a few bills. It’s available in a range of colors. I have cognac, but there’s also a chocolate and black version. – Katie Scott Aiton, Lifestyle Editor

Buy Now – $135 pounds ($176)Seawag underwater phone case

Photo: Morgane Croissant

The day before I was due to leave for the magical Galápagos Islands, I was told that the one thing I shouldn’t leave without was an underwater phone case. I had secured an older GoPro for all my snorkeling footage, but having never used one before, I thought it would be good to have another, more simple, option. I ran to the one store in my town that sold them and for just $21 I got myself a Seawag universal waterproof case. While it takes a lot of courage to stick your expensive phone into what looks like a very simple plastic pouch and immerse it in sea water for hours on end, I’m here to testify that it’s not only safe, it works beautifully. All you have to do is slip your smartphone into the pouch, lock the waterproof mechanism, put the lanyard around your neck, and you’re good to go. Because the screen is not as reactive to your fingertips while underwater, you do need to open the camera function on your phone prior to getting into the water, but apart from that, while in the pouch, you can film and take photographs in the same way you do on land. Thanks to this simple, inexpensive case that suits all smartphones, my partner and I, who are far from being photography experts, managed to beautifully capture sea turtles swimming by us, playful sea lions, and thousands of colorful fish. — Morgane Croissant, Deputy Editor

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Fjällräven Ulvö Hip Pack Large

Photo courtesy Fjallraven

This summer, as I was discussing travel plans with one of my many knowledgeable coworkers, I was told that Quito, Ecuador, where I was planning to spend some time in the fall, was rife with pickpockets and phone snatchers. I usually travel with a backpack, but to keep my belongings a little safer this time around, I opted to visit the Ecuadorian capital with a sling back instead. Fjällräven’s Ulvö Hip Pack is meant to be worn as a fanny pack, but I wore it across my chest with the zipper in the front so I could control its access. While I initially thought I had made a mistake by choosing the large version of this model instead of the more reasonable medium, I changed my mind very quickly. The large version of Fjällräven’s Ulvö Hip Pack allowed me to carry my passport, wallet, a full-size guide book, a notebook and a pencil, my sunglasses, my phone, and my earphones everywhere I went around Quito without looking too bulky or feeling too heavy. There are many compartments inside the pack to keep your stuff tidy, and the small, zippered security pocket in the back is the ideal place to keep your most valuable items. The compression straps underneath the pack are practical to hold a sweater, but don’t try to secure a water bottle with them – it keeps slipping. — Morgane Croissant, Deputy Editor

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4-Pack Apple AirTags

Photo: Kelsey Wilking

To avoid luggage fees, I usually travel with just a backpack and a carry-on roller bag. But my recent Virgin Mediterranean cruise warranted my first checked bag in years. With themed event nights, excursions, and a few pools on board, I had no choice but to pay the $75 fee (seriously, why do shoes take up so much space). Given that U.S. airlines lost 2 million bags in 2023, I tucked an AirTag inside my luggage to ease my anxiety. It worked—my phone would notify me, ‘Your [device name] is no longer with you,’ and I’d watch my bag make its way through the airport and finally onto the plane. Sure, the bag could still get lost, but at least I’d know its location to help track it down. Easy to use and perfect for anxious travelers—I won’t check a bag without one ever again.-Kelsey Wilking, newsletter nerd

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Kindle Paperwhite 11th Generation

Photo: Kelsey Wilking

As an avid reader, I take my Kindle everywhere. Going to the dentist? It’s in my tote. Traveling for six weeks in Guatemala? I wouldn’t leave home without it. I remember the days of packing two or three physical books that took up valuable luggage space, but now I have unlimited books right at my fingertips. Trust me, downloading The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson on a Kindle is far easier than packing that behemoth. While my partner initially refused to buy one because ‘physical books are better,’ even he became a convert after getting one for Christmas last year. Download the Libby app and connect your library card, then get Kindle Unlimited, and those long international flights will go by faster than a jackrabbit on a hot skillet. -Kelsey Wilking, newsletter nerd

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Buy the Kindle Shell Cover from Moto – $22.99

REI Co-op Expandable Packing Cube Set

Photo: Kelsey Wilking

Packing cubes are a fantastic way to organize your items and save space. While the square-shaped packing cubes are great, these slim options are perfect for filling smaller and longer gaps in your suitcase. This set from REI Co-op can be an excellent addition to your usual set and helps fill the spaces left by the squares. I took them with me on a recent cruise, and the slim one was perfect for bathing suits and workout gear. -Kelsey Wilking, newsletter nerd

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From Jungle Treehouses to Island Villas, These 3 Resorts Capture Belize’s Best

Belize’s shadowy jungle mystique — with its Maya temple mysteries, roaming howler monkeys and jaguars, warm rivers, and miles-deep caves — is harmonized by its easterly Caribbean waters, rich and (mostly) friendly marine life, and sandy resort-speckled cayes. What it lacks in square footage — Belize’s mainland is just 170 miles long, slightly larger than Massachusetts — the tiny independent country makes up for in geographical diversity.

A swift two-hour direct flight from Miami or Houston makes the English-speaking Central American nation an easy pick for a warm-weather vacation. Anytime of year is a tropical treat, but you can beat the holiday and spring-break crush if you visit Belize outside of December, January, and March. My October visit saw short jungle afternoon rain showers and comfortable coastal temperatures in the high 80s, with bountiful sunshine and Caribbean breezes.

Sweet Songs Belize Jungle Lodge Photo: Courtesy of Muy'Ono ResortsThatch Caye Resort Photo: Courtesy of Muy'Ono ResortsRoyal Belize Photo: Courtesy of Muy'Ono Resorts

I spent five days exploring a trio of Muy’Ono Resorts properties, spanning from jungle, to beach, to private island. The Austin, Texas-based brand hosts “the largest collection of independent hotels in Belize,” with a total of eight properties that cater to curious and discerning travelers seeking a hassle-free getaway. Muy’Ono has curated all-inclusive vacation packages with names like Sea-to-Tree and Rock-to-Reef for travelers craving a bit of both scenes, so you can hop from a rainforest setting to an overwater bungalow or secluded island — like I did.

All three of beautifully branded and sustainably focused resorts I visited delivered countless pinch-me moments, anchored by land and water adventures and real-deal Belizean culture. And for an added, feel-good bonus, I learned that a portion of every night’s stay with Muy’Ono supports a Belizean non-profit organization. Since 2018, Muy’Ono Resorts has donated approximately half a million dollars to local communities through its Travel Better initiative.

Here’s how to find the right Muy’Ono property for you.

For jungle adventurers: Sweet Songs Belize Jungle Lodge

Photo: Courtesy of Muy’Ono Resorts

At Sweet Songs Belize Jungle Lodge, six perfectly perched adults-only treehouses set guests up for full forest immersion while a garden house and nine casitas dot tropical-flower-lined pathways. Absorbing the chirps and lullabies of native bugs and birds (and the occasional Jurassic screech of distant howler monkeys) brought me into a deep connection with nature during my stay. I found sanctuary in the eco-lodge’s outdoor soaking tubs, suspended net lounges, and wide jungle views from my private deck and the resort’s secluded riverside beach.

At mealtimes, I lingered over the all-inclusive breakfast, lunch, and three-course dinner package, savoring bites in the open-air Treehouse Bar and relishing in the fact that most of the seasonal ingredients had been carefully sourced from Muy’Ono Farms in the nearby Cayo district. It was comforting knowing that the resort chefs and farm manager had worked hand in hand to build my plate of free-range eggs, mango, rice, and beans, with creamy splashes of coconut milk and puffed-up fry jacks (a Belizean breakfast staple that’s similar to a beignet and ideal for scooping up silky whipped beans or luscious local honey).

Photo: Courtesy of Muy’Ono Resorts

Sweet Songs also organizes guided adventures that allow guests to get a closer look at Cayo and the areas surrounding the lodge. One day, I stepped out of my comfort zone and into an excursion van on a journey past fields of grazing cattle and horses and through tunneled tangles of vine and palm to arrive at the legendary Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave. Life vests and head-lamp-mounted helmets donned, my brave group navigated the sacred cave’s vast network of underground chambers, witnessing Maya sacrifice tombs and oh-so-carefully stepping around the living museum’s calcified skulls.

On days when guided horseback riding and Macal River tubing excursions weren’t on my wishlist, I preferred to cool off at the lodge in the verdantly wrapped infinity-edged pool with a dark rum, pineapple, and mint-laced signature Birds of Paradise cocktail and a good book. Either way, from handing out chilled eucalyptus towels, to providing helpful walking directions to the neighboring botanical gardens, to pointing out night hike bats and tapirs, the Sweet Songs staff ensured that I always felt safe, spoiled, and welcomed — like family.

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For island lovers: Thatch Caye Resort

Photo: Courtesy of Muy’Ono Resorts

Allowing me to be barefoot and blissed out for my entire stay, mile-long island Thatch Caye quenched a longtime thirst of mine to experience Maldives overwater bungalow living (minus the 20-plus-hour flight to South Asia). A smiling welcome party — including the island’s house pups, Marley and Pico — met my group’s private boat taxi on the resort’s dock with shots of Copalli rum and cool glasses of fresh watermelon juice. Six cruiser bikes sat on standby, ensuring easy flow from one end of the 11-acre private playground to the other.

Tranquil days brimmed with kayaking and paddleboarding around the island looking for stingrays and nurse sharks (puppies of the sea, I was informed), yoga on the overwater serenity point palapa, and frequent dips into the calm Caribbean waters. The resort’s personalized wellness activity menu meant options were always on tap, and since Thatch Caye tops out at 30 guests, easygoing invites to join new friends for a night snorkel were comfortably common.

Photo: Courtesy of Muy’Ono Resorts

I accepted the invitation to grab a frosty Belikin beer from the help-yourself beach cooler, kicking back in a hammock swaying between two sturdy palm trees. Afternoon slumber came easily while waves lapped beneath the pristine row of 15 overwater bungalows and oceanfront cabanas. The private island offered chances for connection over long, communal dinner tables, ocean swings, and a buzzy overwater bar. I leaned into shared stories about what a couple from New York saw on their scuba outing, and we cheered as a repeat guest from Texas embarked on her lobster-hunting excursion, all secretly hoping she’d return with a hefty haul for Thatch Caye chefs to grill into a buttery delicacy for dinner later that night.

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For ultimate luxury: Royal Belize

Photo: Courtesy of Muy’Ono Resorts

Nothing says vacation extravagance like an all-inclusive private island with a 1:1 guest-to-staff ratio. Royal Belize is a short boat ride from Dangriga and accommodates only one group of 16 at a time. I felt like a celebrity wrapped in secluded exclusivity, settling into my luxury villa and strolling the serene 7.5-acre private island. Mindful details set up every moment for ultimate comfort — cookie jars stocked daily with fresh-baked Belizean goodies, a private chef and mixologist at the ready, hammocks and lounge chairs at every turn, and an impressive cache of water toys to call on whenever the urge struck.

A knowledgeable guide showed me the ropes on a four-person Hobie Wave catamaran, and a smooth stand-up paddle board jaunt revealed orange starfish hugging the sea floor. Royal Belize rests on the edge of the second largest barrier reef in the world, the Mesoamerican Reef. A guided snorkeling excursion allowed an unforgettable swim with graceful nurse sharks, stingrays, barracudas, angelfish, and parrotfish. Another outing put my novice flippers to the test while I followed the Belizean guide down, spear in-hand, to prod the colorful coral for lobsters.

Photo: Courtesy of Muy’Ono Resorts

Back on the island in the grand thatched palapa, the most thoughtful servers shook martinis and poured wine, ringing a mini gong to announce each delectable chef-inspired dinner course. Memorable bites included mushroom risotto, blackened snapper with an ancho chile sauce, lamb chops Milanese, and, of course, our freshly speared lobster tails expertly grilled and poached.

The stress-free island retreat and dedicated concierge service redefined hospitality and took relaxation to a new level. Once the sun settled on the sea-meets-sky horizon in a fiery orange and pink blaze, and Champagne flutes were sipped dry, warm nights ended around the firepit, necks craned from lounge chairs pointing out vivid constellations over the island’s far-reaching tip, appropriately named Land’s End.

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How to get to Muy’Ono Resorts

Photo: Courtesy of Muy’Ono Resorts

A handful of major airlines fly into Belize City International Airport (BZE), with direct flights offered from US cities like Houston, Atlanta, and Miami. Once in Belize, Muy’Ono Resorts offers guests a 14-passenger tour van option from the airport to Dangriga or Hopkins, or a short commuter flight to their resort destination, along with private boat taxis to Thatch Caye and Royal Belize islands.

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If You Enjoy Tequila and Mezcal on Your Trips to Mexico, You Need to Get Familiar With Sotol

The menu of Mexican spirits is long at Mano Santa Mezcal in Mexico City. It’s the type of bar that fans of Mexico’s distilled beverages immediately fall for: a wide breadth of options, deep cuts that can’t be found anywhere else, and a staff more than willing to point the way. It’s also one of the rare places that I make repeat stops to on my regular travels to the country — most recently to see a friend living in Mexico for two months. I was the designated spirits guide on a summer night out, and after a quick look at the list of options, I chose to start with a drink he (and many other Americans) are still unfamiliar with: sotol.

Mexico is the origin of some of the most popular liquors in the United States. There’s tequila, of course, as well as mezcal, which has broken into mainstream bar menus across the country and elsewhere in the world. Sotol is still largely off the radar of most drinkers stateside. Yet the popularity of agave spirits — tequila and mezcal combined were the second most popular liquors by value in the United States in 2022, according to the Distilled Spirits Council — has opened the door for other beverages from the country to gain wider recognition. One of the largest liquor conglomerates in the world even believes sotol could be “the next mezcal” in a few years (though it has a long way to go, as production is a small fraction of that of mezcal).

Unlike tequila and mezcal, however, sotol is not an agave spirit.

What is sotol?

Photo: CampSmoke/Shutterstock

Sotol is made using varieties of the Dasylirion plant. It grows in in the mountains and high desert between 3,000 and 6,000 feet elevation. Commonly, the plant is called the desert spoon or simply the sotol plant.

While it was once believed to be a type of agave, it’s actually a separate related species.

Sotol has similarities with tequila, mezcal, and other agave spirits. The production, for example, follows a similar process of harvesting the plant and cutting off the outer leaves, and then roasting the heart of the plant to release the sugars before fermentation and then distillation. Like with certain types of mezcal, where the plant is grown also heavily impacts the flavor (most tequila and mass-produced mezcal, on the other hand, have a less aggressive flavor profile that’s more standardized). Sotol producers called sotoleros work in distilleries called vinatas, which can have a similar construction and layout to what the mezcaleros are familiar with from making mezcal in palenques.

Certain types of mezcal only use wild agaves, just as sotol is made from wild Dasylirion. Wild sotol harvesting licenses limit gathering to 30 percent of the plants in a given area. It can take 15 years for a plant to mature to proper harvesting size, though the sotol plant can grow back from the roots if cut correctly, unlike with agaves. To avoid the ups and downs in agave supply seen in tequila and feared to soon happen with mezcal, sustainable harvesting methods and replanting initiatives are needed for sotol is to reach a similar level of popularity. Otherwise, any explosive growth in sales of the resulting spirit could put unmanageable strain on the availability of the Dasylirion plant.

Photo: Daniela Martinez Ch/Shutterstock

Also like mezcal, sotol once had a reputation as a type of Mexican moonshine because it was typically produced in small batches in rural areas. It was a popular moonshine in the American Southwest during Prohibition, too. According to PUNCH, Chihuahua produced 300,000 liters of sotol a year in the early 1930s. The fact that making sotol was illegal in Mexico for decades until the 1990s reinforces the moonshine connection.

Modern drinkers often crave that feeling of authenticity, however, and small batch, traditional, and rural production are all selling points in today’s market. Mass-market and celebrity-backed spirits still make up a large portion of sales for Mexico’s spirits, but purists touting the death of tradition through wider appeal are often the loudest voices in the room.

The controversy around what counts as true sotol

Photo: B Norris/Shutterstock

In what is now the Southwestern states of the US and in northern Mexico, beverages made from the Dasylirion plant family have a long history dating back thousands of years. A fermented beverage from the plant was historically made for spiritual reasons wherever it grew wild, from the Ancestral Pueblans in the deserts of the Four Corners states, to Indigenous peoples in Texas, to the Tarahumara in Chihuahua. The name sotol comes from the Náhuatl word tzotolin, which loosely translates to palm tree.

Distillation techniques changed the primary production of the fermented sotol drink just as it did for pulque made from agave. Today, after going from rural local beverage to outlawed spirit and then back to a legal regional drink, sotol is a point of pride in northern Mexico.

Sotol’s denomination of origin was established in Mexico in 2004, and that limited production to the states of Chihuahua, Durango, and Coahuila. The designation only applies to how a spirit can be labeled and branded. Other regions make distillates from the sotol plant and call it cucharilla — not too dissimilar from producers who make mezcal outside of the designated methods and regions call it destilado de agave.

Denomination of origins for tequila and mezcal were recognized in the United States in 1994 with the ratification of NAFTA. The same isn’t true for sotol, and currently distillers stateside can sell spirits made with Dasylirion plants under the sotol label.

Near the border with Texas in Marfa, controversy over that loophole has come to a head at Marfa Spirit Co. with dedicated protestors led by Sandro Canovas who believe only sotol from Mexico can be called sotol. Desert Door Distillery in Driftwood, Texas, has built the core of its brand around the company’s Desert Door Sotol. Activists argue that although sotol grows in the Southwest of the US, traditional production techniques make sotol a distinctly Mexican product.

The argument for not acknowledging sotol’s denomination of origin rests on the notion that US distillers are on one hand helping the category gain recognition. The history of the Southwest weighs in as well, as the land was once part of Mexico and certain cultural traditions live on today in some form.

Renegotiations of the NAFTA treaty in 2020 originally included recognizing sotol’s denomination along with the Mexican spirits bacanora and charanda. Texas Senator John Cornyn said the sotol recognition would hurt Texas businesses making spirits with the desert spoon and the line was struck, according to the New Yorker. Reports surfaced afterward that Desert Door had lobbied Cornyn to take out the mention of sotol.

How sotol tastes

Photo: Hacienda de Chihuahua

Mexico’s spirits are deeply tied to the country’s history and culture — especially when those beverages adhere to artisanal, longstanding production methods. Tasting these drinks is a taste of the land and the traditions of the people making them. The French concept of terroir (loosely meaning a flavor distinct to the place a food or drink was made) applies just as much to wine as to artisanal liquor, a representative for Hacienda de Chihuahua tells me over email. Hacienda de Chihuahua is a trailblazer in the sotol category as the first brand to export sotol internationally, and one of the best ways to get familiar with the spirit if you don’t have any trips to Mexico planned for anytime soon.

Different producers source Dasylirion from areas with varying soil climate conditions, and regional production techniques also leads to different flavors in the final product. There are about 20 known species of Dasylirion, though only a handful are used to make sotol, and each lends a different flavor profile. Plants from the desert can be more earthy with higher minerality, while forest-grown sotol can have more vegetal and minty notes.

Sotol typically has similar but more intense flavors than tequila, and lacks the smokiness found in some mezcals. Sotol is often unaged, letting the flavors from the plant and its terroir really shine through. Hacienda de Chihuahua also makes a barrel-aged sotol for a more mellow flavor profile with light toasted wood notes. I personal enjoy sotol neat served alongside an orange slice and some sal de gusano (worm salt). However, it mixes well into the same tequila and mezcal cocktails you know and love like margaritas and palomas.

Sotol is a must-try for fans of tequila and mezcal. There’s a short list of sotols available in the US (along with Hacienda de Chihuahua, some of the more available brands made in Mexico include Nocheluna, Sotoleros, and Oro de Coyame), though tasting sotol in it’s country of origin is the best way to understand the various shades of flavor from each microclimate the plant grows in.

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The R8 Plus: a Useful (and Quirky) Recovery Tool for Hike and Bike Road Trips

As a mountain biker, hiker, and snowboarder, having sore, tight legs has become the norm for me. I spend about 15-20 minutes every day stretching, foam rolling, and doing whatever I can to make my legs feel anywhere close to normal, instead of being so tight that I’m limping during my first few steps off the couch.

Because I’m self employed and work remotely, I have the freedom to travel quite a bit to bike and hike. And I live in the Sierra Nevada at an elevation of about 6,000 feet, which means less oxygen gets to my muscles than I’d experience closer to sea level. So after tackling rocky trails, steep climbs, and technical descents, either on foot on on my bike, my quads, calves, and hamstrings often feel like they’ve been put through the wringer.

I’m no stranger to testing and trying various muscle recovery tools. Photo: Suzie Dundas

Because of this, I’ve collected quite a lot of various massage tools, from foam rollers to muscle recovery balls to resistance straps, lacrosse balls, massagers, and more. The space under my living room table looks like a physical therapist’s office. But I just added a new product to the lineup that makes my living room look a little more like a medieval dungeon than most people’s: it’s the R8 Plus Deep Tissue Massager from Roll Recovery, and with heavy metal bars and metallic springs, it looks more like a torture device than a massage tool. But once you learn how to use it, you’ll be saying less “eww” and more “ahhhh.”

Here’s my take on the R8 Plus as an athletic person who’s always off somewhere in the mountains — and advice on what kind of athlete will find the quirky recovery device worth the price.

Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to make a purchase. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication, and Matador writers and editors are not compensated based on sales. All opinions are our own, based on personal testing and research.

“What is that thing?”

The R8 Plus, straight out of the box. Photo: Suzie Dundas

That’s the very first thing my husband said when I took the large, somewhat intense-looking device out of the high-end packaging. The Roll Recovery R8 Plus works by using spring-loaded arms to apply consistent, adjustable pressure to your muscles with two ribbed rollers, squeezing muscle groups like the thighs, calves, and hamstrings. It’s easy to clamp around around the muscle group you want to massage, and it automatically adjusts to your body’s shape, delivering deep pressure without the need to push or move your body. The rollers smoothy compress your muscles, and it’s easy to use while sitting, standing, or lying on the floor moaning about how your calves feel like they’re about to explode.

The R8 Plus also has an adjustable dial to tweak the level of pressure. This is useful not just to accommodate various sizes of muscle groups (so you can make the pressure on your arm as tight as the pressure on your thighs), but also means one size fits all users.

Buy Now: $169
The R8 Plus: what we liked

The R8 plus can dig in seriously deep, which I think is a plus -- but it's possible some users may find it too intense. Photo: Suzie DundasI found the large ribs on the R8 plus especially effective for digging into specific, targeted muscle groups. Photo: Suzie Dundas
Before I started using the R8 Plus, my go-to tools were a foam roller and a medium-sized textured massage ball, roughly the size of a grapefruit. While I still use both quite a bit, the R8 Plus is far easier to use, and works on a wider variety of muscle groups.

Foam rollers only work when you lay or sit on them, creating pressure under your weight. So they’re very hard to use for muscle groups where you can’t position your body weight entirely above them, like your calves or arms. But the R8 Plus’ pressure comes from the internal spring mechanism, so there’s zero pushing required to create pressure comparable to that of a  foam roller. That means you don’t need to roll around on the floor to use it . I’ve used it several times in the car on the way home from long bike rides (not while driving), as well as when I’m just sitting on the couch or getting ready for bed.

My favorite feature of the R8 Plus, though, actually relates to the rollers themselves. It’s the only tool I’ve found that works on very small, specific muscles, like my achilles or the tibialis interior (the long, thin muscle just on the outside of your shin bone). That’s because each roller has four rounded ridges on it. So if you position the R8 Plus correctly, you can get the ridge of a roller to really dig into small muscles with pointed, acute pressure. I haven’t found another tool that can push as specifically on tiny muscles groups, allowing me to work on loosening all the muscles in my legs, instead of just ignoring the smaller ones like I was before.

Buy Now: $169
The R8 Roller: overkill?

Testers of the R8 Plus generally liked the strength, but it is on the stronger side. Photo: Suzie Dundas

I’m not joking about how tight and tender my muscles usually are — I’m the only person who literally failed dry needling at my PT’s office (it caused a muscle spasm) and I burn through CBD lotions and IcyHot patches. But despite that, I don’t find the R8 Plus too strong, even on large muscles with it set on the tightest setting. If you want less pressure, you can just twist the adjustment to make the spring a little looser. I’ve had male and female friends of various sizes and athletic ability levels use try it, and most people seemed to like that the pressure is pretty strong.

But that said, some reviewers on Amazon have mentioned that they felt even the weakest setting was a bit too tight. If you’ve never used any kind of massager that digs into your muscles, you may want to test out the sensation with something cheaper (like a lacrosse ball or foam roller) before buying the R8 Plus, since it is about $170. If you don’t think you’ll need the adjustable pressure dial, the R8 without it (the non-plus version) is less pricey, at $140. It’s still spring loaded, so it’ll adjust to different sized muscle groups. It just doesn’t have the dial to make the pressure stronger or lighter.

Buy Now: $169
The R8 Plus: who will like it?

I’ve used the R8 Plus before big rides or hikes to generate blood flow and “wake up” my muscles, so to speak. Photo: Suzie Dundas

As someone who’s already a fan of foam rollers and daily stretching, I guess it’s not surprising that I’ve appreciated having a tool like the R8 Plus in my recovery toolkit. It’s easy to pick up when you’re sitting on the couch and do a few minutes of massage, which is helpful for people who often forget to stretch or can’t find time for a full muscle recovery session. Anyone who has sore muscles and is looking for a tool that can deeply kneed into various muscle groups will probably appreciate having the R8 Plus around, even if they don’t use it every day.

I’ve found that my leg muscles do feel immediately looser after using it, and after about 10 days of working the R8 Plus into my daily stretching and rolling routine, I found my leg fatigue after bike rides generally decreasing. I can’t credit that all to stretching and recovery, as a lot of factors go into fitness development, but I can say that I felt like my legs hurt less and warmed up a little quicker on most rides.

But aside from that generic answer — because, honestly, what active person doesn’t have sore leg muscles? — it’s a device that would be quite useful for anyone planning an active roadtrip. Since it adapts to all body sizes and is easy to use standing up, while in the car, and for just a few seconds at a time, it’s easy to use multiple times a day and could make a big difference in whether your leg muscles get too sore for multiple days of adventures in a row. It isn’t a replacement for the long-term factors that go into having strong and loose muscles, like rest days, varied forms of exercise, and a vaguely healthy diet, but when you just need a little TLC after an active day, it’s a welcome addition.

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On Virgin’s Celebration Voyages, You Can Rub Elbows With Richard Branson, Astronauts, and More

As a former “never cruiser,” I once believed all big ship cruises and cruise lines were relatively the same. Sure, some had differences like adults dressed as cartoon mice, but I was under the impression that no matter the ship, there would be engorged Americans in their Thanksgiving pants staggering away from midnight buffets, and octogenarians in Hawaiian shirts trying to recapture their youth. I avoided cruises for years based on those assumptions. But since my first cruise with Virgin Voyages in 2022, I’ve learned the stereotypes aren’t universal.

Virgin Voyages launched in 2021 as the sole adults-only major cruise line in the United States. After my first Virgin cruise, I returned again this year and was similarly impressed. Buffets are replaced with elevated restaurants, and there are no single-use plastics onboard. The company launched Celebration Voyages in 2023, which take things a step further when it comes to immersing in all things Virgin, and I joined for the follow up in 2024. There are TED Talk-style speaker sessions, sustainability-focused shore excursions hosted by senior Virgin leadership, and special guests like Sir Richard Branson himself. I was even lucky enough to hear his firsthand thoughts on the Virgin brand, disrupting the cruise industry, and Celebration Voyages.

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“Our purpose of changing business for good is rooted in every decision we make,” Branson tells me. “I think that’s why Virgin fans are so loyal and enthusiastic about special moments like Celebration Voyages. It’s an opportunity for us to welcome them as part of our Virgin family through exclusive events and activities, with the very people that have helped shape the brand they’ve come to love.”

While Celebration Voyages will have different events and speakers each year, here’s an idea of what you can expect.

Party like it’s 1983

After founding Virgin Records in 1970, Branson went on to start over a dozen other successful ventures, including Virgin Atlantic, Virgin Mobile, Virgin Hotels, and now Virgin Voyages. With more than 50 years in the travel, media, and consumer space, it’s not surprising that Virgin has a large and loyal fanbase.

Celebration Voyages are basically weeklong festivals at sea celebrating the Virgin brand, and while they certainly cater to Virgin fans, they’re for the Virgin virgin too. First launched in 2023 with a single sailing, Celebration Voyages returned in 2024 with three separate itineraries on three different Virgin ships. The voyage I went on, called French Daze and Ibiza Nights, was a seven-day, round-trip journey starting in Barcelona with stops in Marseilles, Cannes, Mallorca, and Ibiza. Sure, you could lose yourself in the glamor of the French Riviera or the delirium of Ibiza’s nightlife and easily forget about the lively activities happening right outside your cabin door – but you would be doing yourself a disservice.

Since this is, after all, a celebration of all things Virgin, you might as well dive right into the brand history. Don’t worry, these aren’t boring business school lectures. They’re a series of sessions onboard where Virgin senior leadership pulls back the curtain on the storied company’s decades-long journey. You’ll learn about Branson’s rise to quirky billionaire mogul status, how Virgin Voyages is disrupting and changing the crowded cruise industry, and Virgin Galactic’s ambitious plans for space travel.

Photo: Virgin Voyages

And if you’ve always wanted to meet an astronaut, this is your chance. In addition to speaker sessions where Virgin Galactic astronauts tell firsthand accounts of traveling to space (and answer your burning questions), they also popped up around the ship in more casual, approachable settings. Imagine my surprise when I showed up to trivia and bingo nights and found the games being co-hosted by astronauts.

Photo: Virgin Voyages

It wouldn’t be a true Virgin celebration, however, without Sir Richard Branson himself. He made a special appearance on the pool deck for an intimate chat with passengers, where he told stories and answered questions about the Virgin brand.

When I told him my travel friends often make fun of me for taking cruises because of the age-old stigma that “cruises are for old people,” he replied, “Oh, bollocks! Tell them that those days are gone. We’ve come a long way with our focus on the young and young at heart, and travelers are loving Virgin Voyages’s fresh take.”

Photo: Virgin Voyages

The voyage’s festivities culminated on Scarlet Night – the designated “party” night on all Virgin Voyages sailings, where everyone dresses in red – at a pool party DJ’d by Boy George of Culture Club fame. No, he didn’t just play Karma Chameleon on repeat for three hours. Sporting the flamboyant 1980s style he’s famous for, George spun a diverse mix of house music and throwbacks to keep the ship rocking until…well, let’s just say it was past most Royal Caribbean passengers’ bedtimes.

“You could feel the energy and excitement across all three ships,” Branson said, “and I only see next year’s voyages making more of a splash.”

Take the celebration to the shore

Photo: Michael Potts F1/Shutterstock

The celebration isn’t just contained to the ship, either. For many cruisers (like myself), the ship is mostly a vessel for exploring new ports on shore excursions. While all voyages have plenty of excursions (Virgin calls them “Shore Things”) to choose from, Celebration Voyages throw a few more exciting options into the mix.

On Celebration Voyages, many Shore Things are led by Virgin executives or partners. That includes VIPs like Virgin Galactic astronauts and the CEO of Virgin Voyages. It also includes sustainability-focused tours run by Virgin’s nonprofit organizations, like Virgin Unite. Just in case I didn’t quite get enough astronaut exposure on the ship, I had the option to join Virgin Galactic astronauts on a variety of Shore Things, including wine tasting in Cannes, Mallorca, and Ibiza, and chocolate sampling in Bruges.

Virgin breaks the fourth wall between the staff and passengers with the Shore Things on its Celebration Voyages. In Puerto Plata, passengers could take a cooking class alongside Virgin Voyages Chief Operations Officer Michelle Buntubo, or go on a vintage car tour with Virgin Innovator David Tait. They could also see the iconic Monte Carlo Racing Circuit in Monaco with Senior Vice President Frank Weber, or go canyoneering near Cannes with Innovator Will Whitehorn.

Photo: Virgin Voyages

Apart from its adults-only proposition, Virgin Voyages prides itself on its sustainability efforts. While cruising is inherently an unsustainable type of travel, Virgin takes some measures that other cruise lines don’t to mitigate the environmental impact, like banning single-use plastics onboard and eliminating buffets to reduce food waste. They’ve also partnered with eco-focused charities, including SeaTrees and Virgin Unite, which serve as official partners on Celebration Voyages.

In Puerto Plata, passengers can choose to take an Impact Tour of the north coast to the Laguna de Cabarete National Forest. There, you’ll meet a member of the Virgin Unite nonprofit organization and learn all about the importance of mangroves to the ecosystem before planting some of your own.

If you only associate Virgin with airplanes and an eccentric British billionaire, Celebration Voyages are the perfect introduction – not just to Virgin Voyages, but to the brand’s colorful history and infectious personality. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to see Branson himself and hear an ‘80s pop star relive his glory days.

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How an Outdoorsy Staycation in Grand Junction Reinvigorated My Appreciation for Where I Live

Convincing myself to take a staycation wasn’t hard to do. I live in Mesa County, Colorado, which is home to nearly 1.6 million acres of public land – the highest of any county in a state rife with open spaces – and since moving here in 2019 I’ve frequently dealt with a pleasurable thorn in my side. That is, each time I head to a trailhead to hike, bike, or splitboard, I drive by another trailhead that I didn’t know existed. This is overwhelming. Mock me if you must, but I pride myself on covering a lot of ground, and when the amount of ground that needs covering seems to multiply faster than campers at an REI sale, my inability to be everywhere results in an incessant twitch in the leg. I tend to be far flung when I take time away from the computer, fully embracing the “vacate” aspect of vacation. But for once, I decided it was time to stay closer to home and attempt to catch up on what’s fresh and new in my usual zone.

Seeing Grand Junction with new eyes

Colorado National Monument was signed into existence by President Taft in 1911 using the Antiquities Act, which grants presidents the power to declare a national monument. Hiking trails wind through the monument. Photo: Tim Wenger

To do so, I hopped the bus into downtown Grand Junction, a 70,000-strong regional hub and the largest city between Denver and Salt Lake City. Despite being the economic center for Mesa County’s 150,000+ residents, the city maintains unparalleled outdoor access, with dozens of trailheads offering hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-roading for recreators of all levels.

I checked into the Hotel Maverick, a refined property on the Colorado Mesa University campus that’s staffed largely by students in the school’s Hospitality Management program. The boutique hotel opened in 2020 in a lodging market defined by chain properties and loyalty points, offering a home base to the adventure crowd that seeks authentic vibes. My two-year-old daughter, Olivia, was immediately drawn towards the repurposed gondola car temptingly parked out front of the hotel, and we didn’t even make it inside until 20 minutes later, after her stuffies had sufficiently occupied the tramcar. Dad appreciated the seasonally rotating veggie lasagna on the menu at Devil’s Kitchen on the hotel’s top floor, where we dined on the balcony overlooking Colorado National Monument and the glistening constellation of lights covering the brand new Asteria Theater next door. Inspired by these views and the craft beer in my glass, I watched the sun set a Broncos-orange hue atop the Monument while appreciating how much this small city has refined itself right under my nose.

Case in point: The Grand Valley is an American Viticultural Area (AVA), home to more than 30 wineries. I’d never been to Two Rivers Winery west of downtown, and joined a group to visit the tasting room for happy hour. Known for its chardonnay, I also appreciated the Vintner’s Blend red. The winery also has a chateau where guests can rent rooms overnight, frequently used for weddings and special events.

Canyon bathing and monument hiking

A big horn sheep greeted us, seemingly with a smile. Photo: Tim Wenger

The next morning it was time to actually explore those trailheads I’d promised myself. The Hotel Maverick offers a new guided experience of which I took part known as “canyon bathing.” A play on the Japanese concept of forest bathing, canyon bathing – here under the moniker “Silence, Solitude, & Serenity,” requires hiking out into a desolate canyon and embracing one’s innate connection to nature.

“I’d describe canyon bathing as part hiking, part curiosity and being one with your surroundings,” our guide, a local naturalist named Zebulon Miracle, said as we walked down The Ribbon Trail toward a large sandstone rock face, a flat surface tilted slightly toward the high desert below and the city of Grand Junction beyond. We paused to reflect, sitting on the rock to calm our minds and be in the moment.

Sitting atop a sheet of sandstone overlooking the Grand Junction area, I uncovered what is now my favorite view, my favorite place to sit among both desolation and vibrant life. I’d mountain biked past this point before, but sitting, bathing, in its expanse opened up a perspective that before I’d entirely missed. I became immensely proud to live here. There are life decisions of which I now question, but moving to western Colorado is not among them.

A sandstone formation along The Ribbon Trail, the carved out area in front was used by Indigenous peoples as a cookstove. Photo: Tim Wenger

Desert bathing proved a more mindful way to experience a local trail, with focus on the geology, plant life, and importance of water to the region – a great way to gain an understanding of the area’s natural history. The experience can be customized and is adaptable for those with disabilities. Miracle filled the hiking time with tidbits about our surroundings that only a naturalist could know, such as that sage – which is plentiful in this area – is slightly poisonous, which is why it’s historically been used in medicines. Indigenous cultures found it great for a stomach ache, and for Miracle, who regularly pulls a small piece and places it on his tongue while on the trail, “Sage is the taste of hiking.”

Earlier in 2024 I decided this would be the year I’d finally cover much of the hiking trails within Colorado National Monument. This protected space covers 32 square miles adjacent to the Uncompahgre Plateau’s north rim, an area first occupied and held sacred by the Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray Reservation, the Ute Mountain Ute Tribe, the Southern Ute Indian Tribe, the White Mesa Ute Community, and the Navajo Nation – but not appreciated by white settlers until John Otto proclaimed in the early 1900s that “I’m going to stay and promote this place, because it should be a national park.”

Looking out from a viewpoint at Colorado National Monument. Photo: Tim Wenger

Reddish-brown tinted sedimentary rock formations, some dating back 160 million years, form a series of U-shaped canyons that resulted from volcanic activity and millions of years of subsequent seismic activity and erosion. Newer basalt rock dots the canyons, adding a darker hue. Now, the area is lined with pinyon and juniper trees that form a picturesque and pungent layer of deep greens across the canyons, a landscape as lush and striking as the Grand Canyon and with an adjacent area, Rattlesnake Canyon, containing the second-highest concentration of natural arches anywhere in America, behind only Arches National Park. In 1911, President William Taft signed a proclamation declaring the monument under the protection of the National Park Service, and over the ensuing century a network of well-maintained hiking trails has been established both atop the monument’s high-desert canyons and down within the canyons themselves, with several access points in the Redlands area of Grand Junction.

Since March I’ve ventured to nearly every trailhead within the monument, sometimes with my daughter but often on my own. The lower trails from the Wildwood, White Rocks, and Lower Monument Canyon trailheads offer stunning views of the towering vertical rock formations within the monument such as Bottlecap and Eagle Towers, sheerwalled monoliths that phalice towards the sky like an arm stretching to the heavens

Colorado National Monument was signed into existence by President Taft in 1911 using the Antiquities Act, which grants presidents the power to declare a national monument. Hiking trails wind through the monument. Photo: Tim Wenger

On this occasion I partook in the hike from the Canyon Rim Trailhead, behind the visitor’s center, to Window Rock – a quick two-mile hike I didn’t even know existed because I’d never taken the time to actually look behind the visitor’s center. The trail wound along the canyon’s rim, a vivid overlook into the geologic evolution of our planet since the Mesozoic era. From here I looked down upon the canyons and some of the trail mileage I’d recently covered. En route to the trailhead, with a few others in tow, we encountered BigHorn Sheep that came so close to our vehicle as we inched along Rim Rock Drive atop the monument that it was as though they’d wanted to join our pack.

Venturing to land’s end

Looking out from Lands End Observatory. Lands End Road, which we traversed en route, winds its way up the Grand Mesa from the valley floor. Photo: Tim Wenger

Among the most iconic spots in Mesa County is the Lands End Observatory, atop the Grand Mesa at 10,500 feet in elevation. From a viewpoint on top of the world’s largest flat-topped mountain, we looked out over the vast array of open space that covers western Colorado. This is a truly unique landscape, where the Rockies give way to the high desert, and from nearly 11,000 feet above it’s possible to see all the way to the La Sal Mountains of Utah to the west and the Book Cliffs range directly to the north.

The Book Cliffs are a band of sandy desert mountains, the only east-to-west range in the Rockies, that run from this part of western Colorado into into easetrn Utah. They’re a harsh environment – with steep trails baking in the desert sun and an ecosystem that sees an average of 11 inches of precipitation per year. Plant and animal life here must be resilient, but few areas of the United States better highlight the beauty of the high desert.

Horseback riding has never been a regular activity of mine, but among the most frequent points of discussion in local press and among those who visit the Grand Junction area is the presence of wild horses in the Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Area. After descending from the Grand Mesa we joined JR’s Carriage for a ride on horseback out into the area, where we spotted several wild horses drinking from a small stream running from a nearby spring. I’d never been out on this trail, which departed north from the Coal Canyon Trailhead in Cameo. It provided views of the back side Mt. Garfield, the iconic 6,675’ postcard-worthy peak that is the area’s most well-known natural feature.

Riding through Little Book Cliffs Wild Horse Area, the Grand Mesa in the background. Photo: Tim Wenger

One of the joys of a staycation is that you uncover tough-to-find or newer spots, often my own fault as I live in an area that has been through many boom-and-bust economic cycles and is only recently finding its contemporary footing as a wine country hub that doubles as an outdoor recreation business incubator. In this case I had lunch at Cruise Control Kitchen and Cellar, a wine bar in downtown Grand Junction with a Chicago-influenced food menu. Over a Jackalope sandwich – rabbit and antelope spicy sausage named for the local professional baseball team – I was again reminded of how a city evolves as it grows. The restaurant was founded by co-owners of Sauvage Spectrum, an area winery that has driven the wine region towards a young, hip demographic. I felt this again the next morning at Cafe Sol, a breakfast and lunch spot that I frequent but had never before stopped to think about how great it is to have. I’d successfully pulled back a protective layer that had kept me from seeing everything great about where I live.

Several wild horses drink from a stream. Photo: Tim Wenger

As a travel editor, I’m constantly bombarded with reasons why I should pack up and head somewhere new. My biggest takeaway from this Grand Junction staycation is that it’s equally important to embrace where I live and remind myself why I set roots here in the first place.

As Zebulon Miracle told me as we hiked through those canyons, “Water dictates where people go, but geology dictates what they do when they get there.” Even after five years of exploring the canyons, mesas, and mountains of the region, I still have a lot to do.

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What I Packed for a Magical Week of Sea, Sun, and Wildlife-Watching in the Galápagos Islands

Traveling around the Galápagos Islands is a straight-forward affair: All you have to do is show up with the right gear, and the islands (and their precious animal inhabitants) will put on the best show you’ve ever seen. This should be simple. Surely, if the 100-year-old giant tortoises can stay calm and strike a pose while a dozen teary-eyed tourists gawk at them from six feet away, you can pack the right kind of socks.

While packing for the Galápagos seems easy, there’s one thing you need to always account for: The sun will be brutal. The temperatures might not be high and it might even rain, but the sun will be relentless, no matter the season. In many ways, that makes packing very easy because, whether you decide to visit during the warm and wet season between late December and May, or the cold and dry season of May until late November, you’ll need to have mostly the same priority in mind: items with some kind of high SPF or UPF rating, assuming you don’t want to burn to a crisp.

Another essential piece of advice to remember while packing for a trip to the Galápagos archipelago is that you’ll spend as much time on land as you will on the water. Quick-dry clothing (no denim), multiple bathing suits, and waterproof shoes are indispensable if you don’t want to struggle with belongings soaked in sea water.

Here’s what I packed for a week in in the Galápagos Islands with expedition cruise line Ecoventura, as well as some of the items I wish I had taken with me.

Photo: Ecoventura

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Shoes

If you’re traveling to the Galápagos Islands, it’s probably to spend time in nature, probably wildlife-watching. So you can eschew the elegant shoes you’d wear at a nice restaurant, and bring practical and comfortable footwear instead. For a casual, adventure-focused trip, you only need two pairs of shoes: one for dry and one for wet activities.

Photo: Morgane Croissant

While light hiking boots like On’s Cloudtrax are a good option for land-based exploration, a comfortable pair of sneakers will do the job just as well. I chose to travel with my trusty and well-worn pair of On CloudFlyer 4 runners, which I take just about everywhere. They’re padded for comfort and protection, very stable no matter the terrain, and super light so they never feel like an impediment, even on tough hikes. If I were visiting in the wet season, however, I’d go for a pair of waterproof sneakers to make sure my feet stay dry at all times — I like to be prepared for all eventualities.

Buy On CloudFlyer 4

Photo: Jesse Adams

On your tour of the islands, you’ll spend a lot of time in and out of Zodiacs and kayaks, so water sandals are a must. While some might prefer a simple pair of rubber sandals like the ones Crocs and Birkenstocks make, I advise opting for something with Velcro straps to keep your feet more secure on walks or hikes. Teva and Chacos are the most well-known brands for water sandals, but many outdoor labels make very similar products. I opted for Camper’s colorful Match Sandals, and they not only did the job adequately, but also dried quickly after being submerged. Also, the straps are made with 100 percent recycled polyester — an appealing feature, in my book.)

Buy Camper’s Match Sandals

Sun protection

The sun rays are strongest at the Equator, so while you’re out and about watching sea lions on the beach or swimming with sea turtles, every little bit of skin that’s not appropriately protected or covered will burn. Take it from a fair-skinned, red-haired, freckled traveler who thought she had it all figured out (but didn’t).

Sunscreen

Photo: Jesse Adams

I took a bottle of Think Sport reef-safe SPF 50 sunscreen on my trip, and it was far from enough for my skin. Despite repeated and thorough applications, I got burnt a few times. Find the sunscreen with the highest SPF you can get your hands on (SPF 100 does exist) and apply generously and regularly. Make sure to select an ocean-friendly sunscreen to keep the marine environment happy and healthy.

Buy Think Sport reef-safe sunscreen

Lip balm with SPF

Photo: Jesse Adams

Don’t forget to protect your lips from the sun, too. I forgot my Greencricket SPF 30 lip balm at home and had to deal with very damaged lips that took about a week to recover. While the Greencricket brand advertises a clear lip balm, I found it to have a slight tint, so it might not satisfy everyone. However, both Burt’s Bees and Sun Bum offer clear, SPF 30 lip balms.

Buy SPF lip balm

UV-filtered or polarized sunglasses

Photo: Jesse Adams

Sunglasses with either UV filters or polarized lenses are indispensable for the health of your eyes. While polarized lenses provide your eyeballs with the same sun protection as 100 percent UV lenses, there’s one major benefit to choosing polarized sunglasses: Everything looks a lot clearer and crisper. The polarized lenses get rid of the glare from water, sand, and other surfaces, helping to prevent eye strain. Polarized sunglasses are especially important if you’re trying to spot marine creatures from a boat.

My pair of plastic-framed, tortoise shell Suncloud Metric sunglasses worked beautifully in the Galápagos Islands, and didn’t cost an arm and a leg. I used an eyewear strap from Chums to keep them from falling in the water while kayaking or during Zodiac rides.

Buy Suncloud Metric sunglasses

UPF clothing

Clothing, especially UPF clothing, is a more convenient option than slathering yourself repeatedly with sunscreen. While it’s tough to wear long pants and a long-sleeve shirt in the hot sun, it’s incredibly effective against sunburns. I packed Marmot’s Windridge UPF 50 Hoody for my trip to the Galápagos Islands and wore it when I didn’t want to apply sunscreen; it worked remarkably well. Other travelers in my group did the same and even regretted not packing more than one.

I wore shorts daily during my seven-day trip and did get sunburns on my thighs despite wearing sunscreen. UPF pants do exist, including zip-off pants that easily convert into shorts, and I would highly recommend to pack a pair or two to keep your skin safe from intense sun exposure.

Buy Marmot’s Windridge UPF 50 Hoody

Wide-brimmed hat

Photo: Jesse Adams

Even if you’re not prone to getting sunburns on your scalp like me, do not travel to the Galápagos Islands without a hat — preferably, a wide-brimmed one that also protects your neck and parts of your face. I traveled with the very light and quick-dry Pistil’s Trent Sun Hat, with UPF 50 protection and an adjustable chin cord to keep it secure.

Buy Pistil’s Trent Sun Hat

Rash guard or skin suit

A long-sleeve rash guard (or a full-body skin suit) will not only protect you from the sun around the water, but it’ll also add some warmth in cold water. If you plan to wear it while snorkelling or swimming, make sure it’s a tight fit or it’ll impede your movements. I didn’t have one with me on this trip, but will make sure to pack one next time, as it’s a lot easier to slip one on than to apply sunscreen.

Buy a rash guard

A neck gaiter

Photo: Jesse Adams

I didn’t pack a bandana or gaiter, and ended up purchasing one to protect my scalp while snorkelling. (A swimming cap would have done the trick, too.) It’s also useful for keeping the sun off your face and neck, or using as a headband to keep strands of hair from getting in your eyes. Don’t go without one. I recommend options from Buff, a brand so associated with the product that it’s become a generic term for any kind of neck gaiter.

Buy a neck gaiter

Camera equipment

Photo: Robb Leahy via Ecoventura

As amazing as phone cameras have become over the years, you would miss out on some amazing memories if you didn’t pack a good-quality camera with you on a trip to the Galápagos Islands, whether you rent or purchase one. My partner is the photographer in our relationship, so he hauled his heavy and cumbersome Nikon D610 with a 28-300 mm lens all the way to the archipelago. I’m sure it was annoying at times, but looking back at the beautiful shots he took makes it well worth the hassle. Just make sure to carry it in a dry bag at all times — sea water and electronics don’t mix.

Photo: Jesse Adams

Because there’s as much (if not more) to see underwater as on land, travelers to the Galápagos Islands need to be able to capture images while swimming or snorkelling. My partner used a GoPro, which worked out very well, and we also used a waterproof phone case from Seawag, allowing us to shoot great underwater footage of the island’s varied marine wildlife. Pelican makes a very reliable and affordable waterproof phone pouch, too.

Buy a waterproof phone case

Bug-repelling items

Photo: Jesse Adams

While I encountered only a few mosquitos during my seven-day trip to the Galápagos Islands, if you were to travel there during the wet and warm season, you might run into more. I traveled with a natural bug spray that consists of a blend of essential oils, and it was entirely sufficient. Note that wearing light-colored clothing, as opposed to dark colors, will help deter insects from pestering you.

Buy natural bug spray

Miscellaneous items

Binoculars

Photo: Jesse Adams

Binoculars are an essential item to pack if you want to watch the amazing wildlife of the Galápagos Islands in action, including blue-footed boobies, whales, rays, dolphins, penguins resting on rocks, baby pelicans, and much more. I traveled with expedition cruise line Ecoventura, which provided us all with binoculars, but I usually travel with my own, as well: a pair of 10 X 42 waterproof and fogproof Solognac. Nocs also makes a solid pair of affordable travel binocular that Matador Network editor Suzie Dundas swears by.

Buy binoculars

Windbreaker

Photo: Morgane Croissant

While I traveled to the Galápagos Islands during the dry and cold season, I packed my windbreaker and used it on a couple of occasions. Don’t travel with something heavy and bulky that will take a lot of room in your luggage — there’s no need for anything fancy. Instead, use a packable rain jacket like the Pack & Go Shell from Jack Wolfskin. You can thrown it in your backpack to have handy at all times, since it takes up next to no room.

Buy the Pack & Go Shell from Jack Wolfskin

Hoodie/fleece

Photo: Natasha Hall

Even if the weather is mostly hot in the Galápagos Islands, you might want to pack a light hoodie or fleece for evenings or chilly mornings. Something like the merino-wool Ibex Shak Hoodie or the Teca Fleece by Cotopaxi is sufficient. I used my Shak hoodie daily despite the wonderful weather.

Buy the Ibex’s Shak Hoodie

Mask and snorkel

While Ecoventura provided me with a mask, a snorkel, and a three-millimeter wetsuit for the duration of the trip, if you’re traveling to the islands independently, you may want to bring your own mask and snorkel. Don’t bother with the wetsuit unless you’re a super keen snorkeler or diver — you can probably rent one from one of the outfitters on San Cristobal or Santa Cruz if you need it. A full-body skin suit might be sufficient if you stick to warm-water spots.

E-sim

If you want to stay connected during your time in the Galápagos Islands, get yourself an e-sim from GigSky. Unlike other e-sims, GigSky works both on the Ecuadorian mainland and the islands. I paid $14.99 for 15 days and 3 GB of data — a deal if there ever was one.

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The 14 Best Alberta Airbnbs Rentals for All Types of Travelers

Alberta, a province in western Canada, is a place of contrasts. Its vast prairies stretch to the horizon, its rugged mountains pierce the sky, and the cities of Edmonton and Calgary offer modernity, art, and culture.

For millennia, Indigenous peoples have called Alberta home. The First Nations, Métis, and Inuit have stewarded these lands. Their traditions, stories, and artistic expressions are woven into the fabric of Alberta’s identity. While visitoring you can support Indigenous businesses, go on Indigenous-led tours, visit historic sites, and experience traditional ceremonies to gain a deeper understanding of the heritage.

Alberta is also the ultimate outdoor playground. The Canadian Rockies, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offer breathtaking scenery with humbling peaks, glacial lakes, and the wildest wildlife. Banff National Park, the country’s oldest national park, is just as magical in winter as in summer, and, of course, there’s Jasper National Park. There’s a lot to see and do, I know. First, find a base and then map out a route between a few select places, allowing time to explore the outdoors and listen to the stories of people who call Alberta home.

As it’s the fourth-largest province in the country and only a little smaller than France, you might be questioning how you begin to plan a trip. Often when considering a vacation to a large country or place, I begin by choosing where I want to stay. Finding a perfect rental is just as important (arguably more so) than deciding what to do, and what to see. Hopefully, some of these Airbnbs will help you narrow down where you want to visit and who you will take with you.

Here, we have options for solo explorers, couples and small families, and larger groups. These Alberta Airbnb listings have been selected because they are some of the most wish-listed rentals for a vacation to the province.

We hope you love the Airbnb Alberta rentals we recommend! Just so you know, Matador may collect a small commission from the links on this page if you decide to book a stay. Listed prices are accurate as of the time of publication.

The best Airbnb Alberta rentals for solo travelersThe best Airbnb Alberta rentals for couples and small familiesThe best Airbnb Alberta rentals for groups and large familiesTraveling to Canada? Check out Matador’s Canada accommodations guides: The Most Chic Montreal Airbnbs in the City’s Coolest Neighborhoods The 8 Best Hotels in Montreal Close To the Must-See Sights 19 Epic Airbnbs in Montreal for a Bachelorette Weekend The Best Airbnbs in Downtown Toronto, From the Harbourfront to the CN Tower The Best Airbnbs in Calgary For City Life and Mountain Escapes The Most Luxurious Airbnbs in Whistler for Every Season

From cozy chalets to city lofts, the best options for solo travelers

Open-planned loft in downtown Edmonton

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Many use Calgary as their gateway, never making it to Edmonton’s provincial capital, a three-hour drive north up AB-2. As locals are quick to call out, this is a mistake. With unusual malls, expansive parks, multicultural festivals, and quirky museums, Edmonton is a vibrant city that stands apart from other urban hubs in Canada. This loft is downtown, minutes from Rogers Arena, Grant MacEwan University, and the farmers market. The open-planned space has rave reviews; one guest says they changed their plans and extended their stay because of the warmth and comfort of the one-bedroom. There are views over downtown, a custom-made kitchen, a spa-like en-suite with a walk-in steam shower, and a parking space for one car or SUV.

Two guests, one bedrooms
Price: $124 per night

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Charming tiny house in Cochrane, 45 minutes from Calgary

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If Calgary is calling, but you’re not a city person, look at the country town of Cochrane. It’s around 15 minutes from Calgary, an hour from Banff, and 45 minutes from the mountains of Kananaskis Country. Small towns of Bragg Creek and Black Diamond are perfect for day trips, and I think I’ve just written an itinerary for you. And this tiny house makes for an excellent base. It has five-star reviews, making it a top one percent rental on Airbnb. Within walking distance are lovely little local shops (including an ice cream and coffee house), galleries, and restaurants. There’s space to roam with the Cochrane Ranche, the river path, and Glenbow Ranch, which are also nearby. The tiny home has a lovely fireplace for winter evenings, a sunny reading loft for warm mornings, and a garden-side patio.

Two guests, one bedrooms
Price: $125 per night

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Twin Butte Silos minutes from Waterton Lakes National Park

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In the southwestern corner of Alberta is Waterton Lakes National Park. It borders Glacier National Park in Montana and is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to three interconnected lakes: Upper Waterton Lake, Middle Waterton Lake, and Lower Waterton Lake, where you can rent a boat, fish, or go wild swimming. Surrounding the lakes are Mount Crandell, Mount Blakiston, and Mount Rowe, with various hiking trails that wind through the forests, meadows, and alpine regions. Minutes from the park is this cool silo Airbnb. It sits on 26 acres within Spearpoint Cattle Ranch and offers unobstructed mountain views and excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. It has everything you need: a private gas fire pit for evenings under the stars, a fully equipped kitchen, a communal grill, a gazebo, and outdoor dining.

Four guests, one bedrooms
Price: $146 per night

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Hobbit-inspired 1-bedroom earthouse

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Called “Second Breakfast Hideaway,” this Hobbit-inspired one-bedroom earthouse is a great base if you’re starting your trip in the north of British Columbia. It’s situated in the Okanagan Highlands, around six hours from Banff. That might seem like quite a drive, but it can be knocked out in a day, and the scenic drive from the highlands across the Alberta border is just magical. The landscape in this area is full of winding roads, mountains, and picture-postcard views. The one-bedroom is surrounded by hundreds of acres of hiking trails, high mountain lakes, and creeks and if you’d rather relax and have a glass of wine, it’s just 30 minutes from the wine capital of British Columbia, Oliver.

Two guests, one bedrooms
Price: $291 per night

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Chalet in the heart of the Canadian Rockies

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Putting you in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this chalet is two hours west of Calgary and an hour and a half from Banff. If the journey from the Hobbit home above seems too much, this is the perfect place to stop on your way into Alberta. That will break down the six-hour drive and allow you to relax in the mountains before moving on to the city. I’ve not included an option for a solo traveler in Calgary, but Matador has a dedicated Airbnb article on Calgary, so check that out. The chalet is in the stunning Blaeberry Valley, 15 minutes from the town of Golden. The chalet is hand-built by the owners and is one of the top 10 percent homes on Airbnb.

Four guests, one bedrooms
Price: $144 per night

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From domes to A-Frames, the best options for couples and small families

2-bedroom condo with views over Calgary Tower and downtown

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Calgary, situated along the foothills of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, serves as a gateway to Banff National Park. Often compared to Denver, Colorado, the city is a contrast between its gleaming downtown skyscrapers and vibrant multicultural neighborhoods. This breathtaking two-bedroom skyline condo has views from the large balcony of the Calgary Tower and downtown. With space for four guests, it’s within walking distance to almost everything you’d want to see in Calgary, so you can leave the car parked up and explore downtown on foot.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $98 per night

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2-story dome at Winderdome Resort in the Rockies

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This is another one to bookmark and, indeed, a stay you’ll never forget. In the Rockies, Windermere Resort offers a variety of accommodations, including a top one percent of Airbnb, Wolf Dome. The geodesic dome provides an immersive experience for nature lovers and those wanting to be in a rural mountain setting but close to amenities. It’s a six-minute drive to Invermere, which has excellent dining and shops. But you might find it hard to leave this rental. The Wolf Dome has two stories with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. It features a cozy living area with a fireplace, a fully equipped kitchen, and two bedrooms. The dome’s design creates a spacious, open-feeling interior, while the large windows provide ample natural light.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $188 per night

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Cozy A-Frame with a barrel sauna in Tillicum Beach

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One hour south of Edmonton is this cozy A-Frame on Tillicum Beach. Escaping the city for a few days is ideal, especially in summer when you’ll want some outdoor space and air. The A-Frame sits above a lake, and Camrose, a small town, is a 15-minute drive away, where you can grab produce at the amazing farmers market. There are two bedrooms with three queen beds, an indoor fireplace for winter and an outdoor firepit for dry evenings, a barrel sauna, and a hammock — the perfect place for an afternoon nap.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $164 per night

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2-bedroom chalet in the Blaeberry valley for those coming into Alberta from British Columbia

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If you like the sound of the above chalet in Golden but need more space, bookmark this top five percent two-bedroom cabin. It’s a superb base if you’re driving in from British Columbia and want to see the best of both provinces. In this area of the Blaeberry Valley, six national parks are within driving distance. The cabin has a hot tub, underfloor heating, a fireplace, and a wraparound driveway for larger vehicles and RVs.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $219 per night

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Downtown penthouse with stunning mountain views in Canmore

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Canmore, a charming mountain town in the Rockies, is just west of Calgary. Its proximity to the Banff makes it a convenient base for exploring the breathtaking landscapes, glacial lakes, and wildlife of the Rockies. This cozy two-bedroom, two-bathroom suite offers breathtaking views of the Three Sisters Mountains. Perfect for families or couples, the spacious living area features an open-concept kitchen with a breakfast bar. The primary bedroom has a queen bed and an ensuite bathroom with a walk-in shower, a bathtub, and a vanity area. The second bedroom also has a queen bed and stunning mountain views. Both bathrooms are equipped with complimentary amenities.

Four guests, two bedrooms
Price: $139 per night

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For large groups and families, bigger properties and space

3-bedroom cabin with a barrel sauna in Nordegg

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This secluded mountain home offers a tranquil escape in the Rockies. In the picturesque town of Nordegg, the cabin offers panoramic views, fresh mountain air, and dark starry nights. Nearby is Abraham Lake, a stunning glacial lake, and the David Thompson Highway, which offers scenic drives through the mountains. The cabin is a cozy and well-appointed space, perfect for couples, friends, and families seeking a peaceful getaway. Inside, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, a comfortable living area with a stone fireplace, and board games for entertainment. Outside, enjoy the outdoor fire pit where you can soak in the mountain surroundings and a barrel sauna to relax in after a day of exploring.

Six guests, three bedrooms
Price: $308 per night

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Luxury barn house on working ranch close to Cochrane

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The Croft, a luxurious barn house on Willow Ridge Ranch, is just a few minutes from the historic town of Cochrane. This stunning property provides breathtaking views of the surrounding ranch and the Rocky Mountains. As mentioned, Cochrane provides easy access to Banff and Yoho National Parks. The Airbnb is a beautifully designed space blending modern industrial elements with rustic farmhouse charm. The open-concept floor plan creates a spacious and inviting atmosphere, while the exposed brick, metal, and concrete floors add a touch of industrial chic. The cabin is furnished with repurposed wood, traditional lighting, and antique heirlooms, creating a warm and welcoming ambiance. You can unwind on the covered West-facing deck, which features a dining area, chill by the fire pit tucked away in a secluded cove, or retreat to the second-floor balconies to enjoy stunning views of the mountains and wildlife.

Six guests, two bedrooms
Price: $237 per night

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Luxury Lodge: 180° Downtown, Mountain, Tower Views

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To close out, I’ve got two epic rentals in Calgary. The first is this luxury home in the Ramsay neighborhood. Called the Scotsman’s Hill Lodge, the group-sized retreat has unparalleled panoramic views of Calgary’s downtown skyline, the iconic Calgary Tower, and the Rocky Mountains. The stunning four-bedroom, 4.5-bathroom home is ideal for families, groups of friends, or bridal parties seeking a memorable stay in the city. A short walk from the trendy Inglewood neighborhood, Scotsman’s Hill Lodge provides easy access to various shops, restaurants, and breweries. The modern home features expansive floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking views from every room. This is the perfect place if you are visiting during the Calgary Stampede, as you can watch the fireworks from the scenic Scotsman Hill position.

Nine guests, four bedrooms
Price: $303 per night

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4-bedroom dome house in the heart of Calgary

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Last but no means least is The Dome House, an outrageous and modern retreat offering a tropical-themed stay in the heart of Calgary. With its sleek design and top-of-the-line amenities, this stunning property is perfect for families, groups of friends, or anyone seeking a truly unforgettable experience. The Dome House is located just 17 minutes from the Calgary International Airport, and within a 10-minute drive, you’ll find grocery stores, excellent restaurants, and bars. The home features three professionally designed bedrooms and two luxurious bathrooms with electronic faucets, heated toilet seats, and body spray showers. The hi-tech kitchen is fully stocked with everything you need to host even the fanciest of dinners, with ample counter space from a stunning waterfall granite countertop. Outside, you can relax and enjoy the outdoor green space, which features five patio spaces and three fire pits. If traveling with kids, they will love the playground with a climbing rock, outdoor games, and a mini putt. For evening entertainment, the backyard can be transformed into a private outdoor cinema with projectors and screens for movie nights under the starry sky. And the rooftop patio, with its fire table and privacy walls, offers another secluded spot.

Eight guests, three bedrooms
Price: $510 per night

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North Carolina’s Nantahala Outdoor Center Promises Unparalleled Adventure in the Great Smokies

In the heart of the Appalachians, where the Great Smoky Mountains and North Carolina’s Nantahala National Forest meet, there’s a town called Bryson City where adventure and serenity also converge. It’s a place where the roar of the Nantahala River soundtracks whitewater rafting trips, where the wind whistles as you whip down mountain biking trails or zip line runways, and where nature’s subtler sounds backdrop afternoons spent hiking or relaxing on Fontana Lake.

About 20 minutes from Bryson City, in the heart of the national forest, there’s one outdoors operator that visitors trust to facilitate all of those adventures and more: the Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC). Travelers could easily spend an entire trip to this slice of North Carolina without ever leaving the NOC campus — which also has lodging and all the necessary amenities on site — except to venture out into nature on guided excursions. But the town of Bryson City has its own charms, from the historic downtown to romps on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad.

For the thrill seekers, the curious, and anyone who’s drawn to majestic mountain landscapes, here’s what you need to know about recreating in Bryson City and its scenic surroundings with the NOC.

A window into the region and the Nantahala Outdoor Center

Photo: Tammy McCracken

Perfectly positioned between one of the country’s most-visited national parks and North Carolina’s largest national forest, with the Tuckasegee River and Fontana Lake within rock-throwing distance, Bryson City is considered the outdoor adventure capital of the Great Smoky Mountains. The region, whose peaks and valleys have been sculpted over millennia, has deep-rooted ties to the Cherokee Nation — Nantahala means “land of the noon day sun” in Cherokee, reflecting the way sunlight only graces the Nantahala Gorge’s floor around noon.

The Nantahala National Forest spans 531,286 acres, some 200 miles of which lay tracks for the Appalachian Trail (AT) and more than 500 acres of which belong to the NOC. The NOC was founded in 1972 by Payson and Aurelia Kennedy, along with their friend Horace Holden Sr. What began as a modest motel and petrol store by the Nantahala River quickly evolved into a premier outdoor adventure destination, largely thanks to the veteran guides and staff who run its campus at the intersection of the Nantahala River and the AT. Today, the outdoor center facilitates upwards of 100 exhilarating activities for more than a million visiting adventurers each year.

Nantahala Outdoor Center: 13077 US-19, Bryson City, NC 28713

Outdoor adventures with the Nantahala Outdoor Center

Editor’s note: Reporting for this story was done before Hurricane Helene barreled through North Carolina in September. A representative for the NOC has shared the following message: As communities across North Carolina continue to recover from the impact of Hurricane Helene, we are pleased to share that the NOC’s main campus in Bryson City is fully operational and ready to welcome guests. The NOC is also serving as a donation drop point to support impacted areas with essential supplies. Visitors are encouraged to travel responsibly and explore the open areas supporting local businesses as they recover. Looking ahead, new for 2025 are The Hemlocks by NOC. These newly constructed bungalows represent a bold evolution in premium outdoor experiences. This is not just a place to stay; it’s a reimagined way to connect with nature while enjoying unparalleled comfort.

Hiking

Photo: Jerry Whaley/Shutterstock

It makes sense that hiking is one of the most popular forms of outdoor recreation in an area that hosts part of the AT. Spanning more than 2,190 miles, officially making it the world’s longest hiking-only footpath, the AT stretches from Katahdin, Maine, to Springer Mountain, Georgia, which is about 100 miles south of Bryson City.

The highest point on the trail, Kuwohi, lies about an hour north of Bryson City by car near the North Carolina-Tennessee border. Formerly called Clingmans Dome, and recently restored to its original Cherokee name meaning “mulberry place,” Kuwohi is also the highest peak in Great Smoky Mountains National Park at 6,644 feet.

Multiple trails near Bryson City will get you to the top, but you can also drive almost all the way to the observation deck at the summit via a paved, seven-mile road — you’ll only have to do the last half-mile, which is steep but also paved, on foot.

Mountain biking

Photo: Tammy McCracken

If you prefer to get around on two wheels, the NOC offers access to the Flint Ridge Trail in the Nantahala National Forest. Winding along a ridge high above the river, the trail is available to riders of all skill levels, although it begins with a challenging series of switchbacks. Stick with it (the view at the top is worth the effort) and rest assured that you’re in good hands with NOC’s guides and gear, whether you’re a seasoned or newer rider. The NOC’s Adventure Center rents out an array of top-notch specialized bikes that are perfect for tackling the trails.

Zip lining

Photo: Tammy McCracken

Getting the best views of the Nantahala River Gorge requires a little bit of courage. The NOC’s Mountaintop Zip Line Tour is a heart-pounding experience that includes eight ziplines and culminates in the one-half-mile Mega Zip. As you soar 2,000 feet above the Nantahala River Gorge, the land below becomes a blur of wilderness — a reminder of the area’s unfiltered beauty.

The NOC provides everything you’ll need to zip line responsibly, starting with a harness fitting, detailed instructions, and a safety overview. Tours are designed for all experience levels — expect to complete the introductory “bunny” zip line to apply your new zip skills whether you’re a first-timer or not.

Whitewater rafting

Photo: Tammy McCracken

For an active day on the water, embark on an eight-mile rafting excursion down the Nantahala River with the NOC. Plan to encounter Class II and III rapids, which your guide will help you gear you up for and navigate pending the requisite safety instructions. The journey begins with a bus ride to your launch point. From there, you’ll carry your raft a short distance to the river’s edge, and then you’re off. Along the way, your guide will share stories of the river’s history and the Cherokee Nation that once inhabited the area, making the fun outing an educational one, too.

Things to do in Bryson City

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad

Photo: Tammy McCracken

No trip to Bryson City is complete without a ride on the Great Smoky Mountains Railroad. This round-trip excursion takes you through scenic river gorges, valleys, and tunnels, offering a relaxing way to see parts of western North Carolina that are inaccessible by car. If you visit between November and December, don’t miss the Polar Express Train Ride. Inspired by Chris Van Allsburg’s beloved book, this magical journey follows a young boy as he embarks on a ride to Santa’s headquarters, where he learns an invaluable lesson about the spirit of Christmas.

Great Smoky Mountains Railroad: 45 Mitchell St, Bryson City, NC 28713

Downtown Bryson City

Photo: Tammy McCracken

With 1,500 residents, Bryson City is a small, walkable town that packs a lot into the compact area where Main Street and Everett Street intersect. Make the Swain County Heritage Museum your first stop. The stately white town landmark, which once served as a courthouse, doubles as the Bryson City visitors center where you’ll find everything you need to start your journey around town and beyond, including printed brochures and magazines, public restrooms, and free Wi-Fi.

From there, spend a few hours meandering through shops like the Loose Moose, a one-stop shop for tee-shirts and souvenirs, and the Chocolate Shoppe, an old-fashioned confectionery that peddles a variety of treats ranging from fudge to hand-dipped ice cream. As you explore, admire the Tuckasegee River that runs through the heart of downtown, while the surrounding mountains add the finishing touches to the backdrop.

Swain County Heritage Museum: 2 Everett St, Bryson City, NC 28713
Loose Moose: 190 Everett St Bryson City, NC 28713
Chocolate Shoppe: 134 Everett St, Bryson City, NC 28713

Bryson City Outdoors

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If time permits, drop by Bryson City Outdoors. While not a brewery, this unique spot is a combination outdoor store, beer garden, and community hub. The store offers a wide range of outdoor gear and apparel, perfect for any adventure in the surrounding mountains. After shopping, relax on the inviting patio, where you can enjoy a wide variety of local brews on tap, as well as other craft beers and local ciders. It’s a great place to unwind, meet fellow adventurers, and soak in the vibrant community atmosphere.

Bryson City Outdoors: 169 Main St, Bryson City, NC 28713

Where to eat and drink in Bryson City

River’s End Restaurant

Photo: Tammy McCracken

This waterfront dining spot at the intersection of the AT and the Nantahala River has been serving hikers, paddlers, and everyone in between since 1972. The menu is hearty enough to sustain active types, with dishes ranging from trout cakes and New York-style pizza to hand-baked bread and the restaurant’s famous Nepalese-inspired sherpa rice. The River’s End is open for lunch and dinner year-round, as well as breakfast between March and October.

River’s End Restaurant: 13077 Hwy 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713

Big Wesser Riverside Pub

Photo: Tammy McCracken

On the NOC campus, the Big Wesser Riverside Pub presents a casual dining experience with open-air seating along the Nantahala riverbank. The kitchen plates up dishes Southern-leaning fare like burgers, barbecue, and fresh salads, plus a great selection of craft beers, wine, and cocktails. It’s not the widest menu in the world, but dining and drinking along the river (with live music and special events peppering the schedule) is ideal after a day spent outdoors.

Big Wesser Riverside Pub: 13077 Hwy 19 W, Bryson City, NC 28713

Fryemont Inn Dining Room

Photo: Tammy McCracken

The Fryemont Inn Dining Room is open to the public for both dinner and breakfast from mid-April to Thanksgiving. If you’re a lodger at the Fryemont during the spring, summer, or fall, both daily meals are included in the price of your stay. Dinner entrees are served with homemade soup, salad with homemade dressing, your entree, three special side dishes of the day served family style, and your choice of homemade dessert. Entrees include a variety of local, legendary mountain trout dishes — the pecan-crusted trout is a must — as well as chicken, beef, and vegetarian entrees.

Fryemont Inn Dining Room: 245 Fryemont St, Bryson City, NC 28713

Mountain Layers Brewing Company

Photo: Tammy McCracken

Mountain Layers Brewing Company is situated on Everett Street just past the Tuckasegee River. The brewery has a lovely open-air rooftop bar where you can sit and watch the world go by and, if you are lucky enough, catch a local band entertaining on the rooftop’s covered bar.

Mountain Layers Brewing Company: 90 Everett St, Bryson City, NC 28713

Where to stay in Bryson City

Fryemont Inn

Built in 1923 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Fryemont Inn has 32 rooms and suites in the Historic Lodge, eight luxury cottage suites with fireplaces, and a two-bedroom cabin adjacent to the swimming pool. Designed by Richard Sharp Smith, known for his work on Asheville’s Biltmore House, the inn features oak and maple floors, locust post-and-beam construction, and poplar bark on the exterior. Inside, fireplaces serve as gathering spots where guests can do puzzles, read, or enjoy a cup of coffee. The inn’s dining room and fireside bar welcome tourists and locals alike.

Fryemont Inn: 245 Fryemont St, Bryson City, NC 28713

NOC Nantahala Adventure Resort

NOC’s Nantahala Adventure Resort offers a range of accommodations for both short getaways and extended mountain retreats, from cabins and campsites to mini-lodge-style rooms. One standout is the three-bedroom, one-bathroom Birch Cabin, which sleeps up to nine guests and comes with a full kitchen. The deck overlooks the Appalachian Trail, where you can occasionally catch a glimpse of through and section hikers making their way along the footpath. Another option that’s unveiling in early 2025 is the Hemlocks by NOC, a collection of newly built bungalows tucked away in the forest on the property’s ridgeline.

NOC Nantahala Adventure Resort: 13077 US-19, Bryson City, NC 28713

Getting to Bryson City

Photo: Tammy McCracken

Bryson City is an hour’s drive west of Asheville, NC; two hours from Greenville-Spartanburg, SC, and Chattanooga and Knoxville, TN; and three hours from Charlotte, NC, and Atlanta, GA. The nearest airport (about 40 miles away) is Knoxville (TYS). Other options include Asheville (AVL) at approximately 50 miles away and Greenville-Spartanburg (GSP) at about 80 miles away. Whether you plan a road trip to Bryson City or fly in and rent a car, one thing is certain: the scenic drive to the Great Smoky Mountains gateway is all part of the experience.

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