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These 3 Cities Are Some of the Best Places to Experience Finland’s Famous Sauna Culture

“Both of my parents were born in a sauna,” my friend Jukka told me as he ladled water over the red-hot rocks. Steam hissed and curled through the wooden chamber. “Traditionally, we also held funerals in saunas — so for a Finn, life began and ended in a sauna.”

I’ve been a devotee of sauna therapy since my days as a Division I college wrestler, when my Russian coach took my teammates and me to saunas on recovery days. I came to Jukka’s hometown of Tampere, a charming university city two hours inland from Helsinki, after learning it has been known as the “Sauna Capital of the World” since 2018 with nearly 70 public saunas (the most in a single city in sauna-loving Finland).

“It’s no coincidence that Finland is both the happiest country in the world and the one with the most saunas,” Jukka said as he rattled off the panacean benefits attributed to sauna therapy: improved circulation, glowing skin, reduced dementia risk. “Sauna therapy spikes serotonin and dopamine levels. It’s basically healthy MDMA.”

Photo: Karoliina Barlund

In 2020, UNESCO recognized Finnish sauna culture on its list of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity alongside cultural touchstones like Turkish coffee, Argentinian tango, and the French baguette. The Nordic nation’s variety of public saunas is dazzling. Some are as sleek and luxurious as a Beverly Hills day spa. Others are free and feel more like anarcho-punk communes. There are clothing-optional saunas, floating lake saunas, and saunas with gourmet restaurants attached. Most public saunas only charge a few euros, and many Finns go daily.

Of course, the pleasures of Finland extend well beyond sweaty serenity. Fishing villages scattered along the Baltic coast are among Europe’s most romantic small towns, with windswept harbors, cobblestone streets, and candlelit cafés. In Helsinki, Michelin-starred dining comes at a fraction of what you’d pay in other Nordic capitals. Plus, after all that detoxing, you can indulge in draughts of Karhu, reindeer tartare, and generous pours of aquavit.

Tampere | Helsinki | Porvoo

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Tampere

Photo: Johnny Motley

Tampere was once Finland’s industrial powerhouse, nicknamed the Manchester of the North. Today, the charming university city is more famous as the Sauna Capital of the World. While coastal towns like Helsinki, Porvoo, and Turku were outposts of the Swedish Empire, Tampere is several hours inland and feels quintessentially Finnish.

Saunas

Löyly

. Credit: Jarvis Lawson

Saunas in the region date back roughly 10,000 years, when people dug pits in the tundra, covered them with animal hides, and heated stones at the center. Today, the oldest public sauna in Finland is Rajaportti, founded in 1906. Here, a dedicated saunamestari (sauna master) stokes a birch-fired oven that fills the chamber with dry heat and a subtle forest aroma. Between rounds of löyly (Finnish for sauna steam), patrons unwind in a cozy lounge over light snacks and craft beer.

Gaze at the passing ships as you schvitz at Saunaravintola Kuuma, where floor-to-ceiling windows frame tranquil views of Lake Näsijärvi. Take a plunge in the harbor after your sauna session. In winter, water temperatures hover just above freezing, often with a delicate crust of ice to break through. The jolt of adrenaline from diving in, especially after the warmth of the sauna, could revive a corpse. Kuuma is also a popular brunch spot, with an excellent buffet of smoked fish, Finnish cheeses, and charcuterie.

Rauhaniemi. Photo: Jeff McCarthy

Rauhaniemi Folk Spa lies on the outskirts of Tampere, tucked between dense forests and the shores of Lake Näsijärvi. A favorite among the city’s university students, the sauna exudes a lively and social ethos, especially in winter, when a bar kiosk sits on the frozen lake. The lake’s frigid, revivifying waters are just steps from the saunas. Don’t miss the yurt sauna, inspired by ancient Finnish traditions, and consider booking a vihta treatment, in which an attendant lightly smacks your body with bundles of birch and juniper leaves to release oils onto your skin that promote circulation and healing.

Where to eat in Tampere

Photo: Johnny Motley

Villit ja Viinit channels the hyper-local ethos of New Nordic cuisine, sourcing all its ingredients from purveyors in Tampere and its environs. In place of citrus, the bartenders use crushed wildflowers to lend acidity to cocktails. The bar also stocks rare Finnish gins and craft beers. If available, try the whiskey infused with foraged chanterelle mushrooms — the dram tastes like the essence of the Baltic forest. Villit ja Viinit offers a rotating menu of seasonal small plates to complement the cocktails. The night I visited, I savored a bowl of porridge layered with pork belly and finished with a drizzle of chive oil.

The menu at Ravintola Nonni is as playful as the restaurant’s name, which is Finnish slang for “it’s all good.” Many plates riff on Asian and Italian dishes with Nordic ingredients. My Arctic cod, bathed in fragrant tom yum broth, came with a Thai-style salad that swapped tropical papaya for kohlrabi, a cold-climate cabbage. The most memorable dish of the night was the “fish hoax,” a convincing vegetarian take on smoked salmon. The wine is as delightful as the food, featuring rare bottles from Georgia and Southern Italy.

Finland drinks more coffee per capita than any country in the world, and the baristas at Kahwe Coffee treat their craft with the dedication of Olympic athletes (and they compete in international barista competitions). Kahwe sources its beans from Ethiopia and South America and expertly roasts them in-house. Kahwe has an impressive selection of Geisha beans, a notoriously delicate variety prized for its floral and complex flavor profile. While I usually favor espresso, I recommend the pour-over at Kahwe.

Photo: Laura Dahlman / Restaurant Apaja

If you’re keen to sample rare Finnish ingredients prepared with imagination and exceptional talent, book a dinner at Ravintola Apaja. The building was a horse stable in its former life, a past subtly echoed in the warren of tiny, beautifully furnished dining rooms. The three-hour tasting menu begins and ends with a glass of Champagne, and chef Juuso Ahvenainen changes the menu about 10 times a year. The succession of small plates — treats like smoked elk heart, sous-vide pike-perch, and pike ceviche with pickled lingonberries — sparkles with all the bravura of world-class New Nordic cuisine.

Where to stay in Tampere

Tampere is a compact, walkable city, and the Radisson Blu Grand Hotel Tammer places you just a short stroll from the downtown core. At the breakfast buffet, don’t miss the mustamakkara, a local blood sausage that’s something of a Tampere institution. Olympia Theater, down the street from the hotel, pulses with live music throughout the week. Finland is a nation of unapologetic metalheads, and the band playing the night I visited Olympia unleashed such furious energy that Mötley Crüe or Pantera would have bowed in reverence.

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Helsinki

Photo: Johnny Motley

The Swedish Empire founded Helsinki in the 16th century to compete with the lucrative maritime trade of Tallinn, the ancient Estonian capital. Today, Helsinki is a stylish seaside city that is a global sustainability leader, where neoclassical facades loom above third-wave coffee shops, public saunas, and craft cocktail bars.

Saunas

Sompa Sauna was founded by two hiking buddies who stumbled upon an abandoned sauna and restored it by hand. There’s no entry fee, no dress code (clothing is optional), and the eclectic mix of visitors adds to the laid-back, countercultural charm. The saunas themselves are compact, beautifully built, and ripping hot. After a hard sweat, guests cool off in the icy waters of the Baltic. Unlike most Finnish saunas, Sampa doesn’t have a café, but patrons are welcome to bring beverages.

Photo: NH Collection Helsinki Grand HansaPhoto: Johnny MotleyPhoto: NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa

On the other end of the spectrum, USVA Spa, inside the Hotel NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa, epitomizes chic refinement. Clad in plush robes, guests sip artisanal teas brewed from Finnish herbs and apply botanical skincare products lovingly made by owner Anna Velten. The honey-salt scrub left my travel-weary mug looking at least 10 years younger. The lounge houses a collection of Sami art and artifacts collected by Anna on her travels through Lapland.

Löyly, one of Helsinki’s largest and most iconic public saunas, strikes a balance between upscale design and a relaxed ambiance. The main sauna — a spacious, mixed-gender chamber perched above the Baltic Sea — features wall-mounted buttons that release bursts of steam at the touch. For a more traditional experience, head to the locker rooms, where you’ll find smaller, gender-segregated saunas. In winter, the staff at Löyly cut holes into the sea ice for fearless patrons seeking the complete cycle of heat, cold, and euphoria.

Where to eat in HelsinkiPhoto: The RoomPhoto: The Room

The Room by Kozeen Shiwan earned a Michelin star just months after opening — a remarkable feat for any restaurant. After honing his craft in acclaimed New Nordic kitchens, chef Shiwan returned to his Kurdish roots, crafting a tasting menu showcasing the flavors of the Levant. With bright gold hair and a gleaming grill that would make Nelly jealous, Shiwan is a gifted entertainer, telling vivid stories about each of his glittering dishes. After I finished dinner, several glasses of Champagne deep, I offered Shiwan the highest compliment I could think of: “You’re the Jimi Hendrix of gastronomy, chef.” I meant every word.

Photo:

Restaurant Skörd

Every ingredient in the kitchen of Restaurant Skörd comes from Finland, including the fruit wines. An intimate restaurant ideal for a date, Skörd changes its menu daily based on what the chef discovers at the local farmers’ market. I pride myself on being a food geek, but I found myself mystified by ingredients like pickled salsify root, rowanberry coulis, and pike-perch caviar. Finland is too cold for grapevines, but Skörd serves wines fermented from local subarctic berries. The bilberry wine tastes like an exceptionally fruity malbec, while the gooseberry bubbly is the color of sparkling rosé and is as joyful as a kir royale.

Trilby & Chadwick, hidden behind an unmarked metal door, exemplifies the old-school pageantry and exalted mixology of a superb speakeasy. In a dimly lit salon adorned with oil portraits and antique furnishings, patrons sip inventive riffs on classic cocktails, each named after a literary legend. (I didn’t even glance at the menu before ordering the Bukowski and the Hemingway.) Eschewing social media vanity, Trilby & Chadwick enforces a strict no-photography policy.

Photo: Johnny Motley

As a whiskey writer, I keep an ear to the ground for new distilleries wherever I roam. While Finland has traditionally favored clear spirits like gin and aquavit, Helsinki Distilling Company proves that even the most unexpected corners of the world can produce remarkable whiskey. The Frontier Corn whiskey is an homage to old-school Kentucky bourbon, crafted from a rare cold-climate corn. (I only wish they’d named it Finntucky.)

Where to stay in Helsinki

Left, view from the room at Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4; right, the view from above. Photos: Johnny Motley

Solo Sokos Hotel Pier 4, on the edge of Helsinki’s waterfront, is a minimalist masterpiece of Nordic spruce and Viitasaari granite. The water views from the floor-to-ceiling windows in each room are as sweeping as those from the Lido deck of a cruise ship. Each room has an espresso machine, and breakfast is a smorgasbord of smoked fish, jams, and fresh bread.

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Porvoo

Photo: Motley

The sleepy fishing town of Porvoo less than an hour from Helsinki is blessed with handsome architecture, exceptional dining, and fresh sea air. It has long been a favorite weekend retreat for Helsinkians. Founded by 14th-century Swedish colonists, it’s the second-oldest town in Finland, after Turku.

Sauna

Photo: Visit Finland

Kannonnokka Sauna is a car ride from Porvoo, but the extra effort rewards visitors with a sauna carved into a rock face. After a sauna and cold plunge, admire the Grottabacka forest from the terrace’s jacuzzi. It’s worth visiting in the evening, when you can gaze at the vivid stars after a sauna marathon.

Where to eat in Porvoo

Photo: Restaurant Var

The dishes at Restaurant Vår, a Michelin-starred restaurant on a sleepy cobblestone street, are as gorgeous as the town of Porvoo itself. Chef Niko Lehto amalgamates coastal Finnish ingredients like pike-perch, kohlrabi, and seabuckthorn with gourmet goodies from Italy, France, and Japan. I ordered the tasting menu with a wine pairing, and highlights included fresh scallops dressed with juniper sauce and pike-perch tempura heaped with bright orange roe. After dinner, I relaxed in the beautiful dining room with a glass of jaloviina, a Finnish spirit that blends brandy with a neutral grain spirit.

Tucked behind Porvoo’s ochre-hued wharf warehouses, Salt is a casual restaurant focused on fresh seafood. The salmon blini comes with generous spoonfuls of salmon roe, a nod to the culinary influence of nearby Russia. While Russian blini are crepe-like, Finnish blini are heartier, more like a small pancake. Pair the fish with a draught of Borgå Pilsner, the local session beer.

Where to stay in Porvoo

Photo: Niko Lehto

The Runo is a boutique hotel a quick walk from Porvoo’s waterfront and Porvoo Cathedral, a Nordic Gothic masterpiece emblematic of the town. The small, comfortable rooms are ideal for a romantic getaway, and a complimentary sauna crowns the penthouse. Try the Salmiak liqueur, a black liquorice-flavored digestif, at the lobby bar.

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Tired of Gen-Z Trends? You Can Soon Book Millennial-Only Group Trips.

Every generation seems to be a world apart from the one that comes after it, and millennials and Gen-Z’ers are no exception. And when it comes to travel, those differences are pronounced. Younger travelers tend to prefer budget-friendly accommodations, and are more likely than millennials to plan trips based on what they’ve seen on Instagram. Gen-Z travelers are more likely to follow travel influencers on TikTok, and millennials are more keen on researching trips and finding deals. Gen-Z is more likely to book on a whim, though both generations are more likely to book last minute than boomers.

With the oldest millennials into their 40s, travel preferences have likely changed, too. Many people may prefer to stay out late and endure a few hardships when they’re young and full of energy, but may want something a little more luxurious by their fourth decade of life. And according to a new announcement from cycle tour company Backroads, it’s for all these reasons that the brand is introducing trips with a new angle: they’re just for travelers in their 30s and 40s.

Photo: Miljan Zivkovic/Shutterstock

“After 45 years, we’ve learned the magic of a Backroads trip is about more than the places you visit,” writes the release. “It’s about the people you experience it with.” While other Backroads trips may have families with kids and teens — or adults anywhere from their late teens to late 80s — the new trips are targeted exclusively to millennials and 40-somethings (though the company can’t technically stop buyers of any age from booking).

Trip organizers told Matador Network the decision to create 30- and 40-something trips was inspired by two points. First, that they noticed attendees on their family trips really enjoyed traveling with other likeminded travelers in a similar stage of life. The Backroads team also heard from guests that they were finding a lack of high-end travel experiences well-suited to millennials and young Gen-Xers, and wanted to fill the void.

For now, that’s the primary difference on these trips — though the website promises that they’ll be “culturally rich, physically engaging, wellness-inspired, and socially vibrant. It’s likely that they’ll include the same busy and physically active adventures of trips for younger people, but include slightly more luxurious hotels, with extra free time for guests to fit in a little wellness time or a gourmet dinner.

Millennials and GenXers are more likely to value indulgences like local, higher-end cuisine. Photo: View Apart/Shutterstock

Bookings for the new millennial group travel trips don’t open until mid-June 2025 — but since they’re based on existing Backroads trips, a preview of the upcoming trips is already available online.  These are the four trips we’re most excited about for 2026 and beyond.

A Kentucky Bourbon Country Bike Tour: The Kentucky Bike Tour is a multi-day cycling trip covering about 160 miles through central Kentucky, focusing on the Bluegrass region known for its horse farms and bourbon distilleries. Riders will have scenic views of farmland and rolling hills by day, and in the afternoons and evenings, they’l visit bourbon distilleries for tours and tasting or visit historic landmarks like Kentucky Castle. Accommodations are in a mix of boutique hotels and historic properties, with a focus on local southern cuisine.

A Dolomites Hut-to-Hut Hiking Tour: This Euro-adventure is a six-day trek that traverses northern Italy alpine landscapes like wildflower meadows, pine forests, and glacial valleys. Each night, participants stay in traditional mountain lodges, or rifugi, and will pass through multiple national parks. Days are long and on foot, requiring a decent amount of fitness while traveling through areas known for wildlife like ibex and chamois.

A Quebec City to Montreal Bike Tour: Quebec is the primarily French-speaking province of Canada, so exploring this region on a bike will likely feel a lot like cycling through Europe, but without the long flight. If this trip is anything like the current family-focused trip, it’ll include chances to cycle along the St. Lawrence River, explore small towns and cute artisan workshops, and maybe even fit in a few activities like whale watching or paddling.

Vietnam and Laos Cycling Tour: Cycling tours are what Backroads is most known for, and this upcoming 30- and 40-something trip through Southeast Asia is exactly what the brand does best. Participants will likely get the chance to cycle past rice paddies, explore historic Angkor Wat, and visit small towns and big cities. Vietnam is long and narrow, so it’s possible to cycle along the coast and through the jungle without traveling very far between the two.

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Inside Getaways by Southwest: What Travelers Need to Know About the Airline’s New Vacation Platform

Major airlines in the United States compete at a cutthroat level for flyers. Rewards programs, business class amenities, and airport lounges are all intended to build loyalty and repeat business – and one major US airline is defining 2025 by thinking outside the proverbial “box” – by putting more stuff into it. Southwest recently announced the Getaways by Southwest program, a vacation package option that travelers to popular leisure destinations can choose as a means to bundle flights, car rentals, accommodations, and more into one streamlined booking process.

Getaways by Southwest will launch in the second half of 2025 with a curated selection of destinations and offerings. The company plans to add more amenities, activities, and locales as the program evolves and gains traction. Matador spoke with Alyssa Foster, a spokesperson for Southwest, about the Getaways concept and what travelers can expect.

The basics of the Getaways by Southwest program

The hotel zone in Cancun. Photo: Iliana Clarisa /Shutterstock

Launching later in 2025, Getaways by Southwest is the airline’s new in-house vacation booking platform, designed to replace its previous third-party arrangement under Southwest Vacations. This new program will allow customers to book complete vacation packages—including flights, hotels, and other add-ons—directly through Southwest Airlines. By bringing vacation planning in-house, Foster explained, Southwest aims to offer travelers more convenience, flexibility, and integrated benefits, such as the ability to earn and apply Rapid Rewards® points. The program will initially launch with options to travel with major hospitality partners like Caesars Entertainment, Playa Hotels & Resorts, and Sandos Hotels & Resorts, focusing on leisure destinations in the U.S., Mexico, and the Caribbean.

One of the standout features of Getaways by Southwest is its flexible travel policies. Customers will have the option to cancel their full vacation package up to 10 days before departure and retain the value as what the company has dubbed “Vacation Travel Credit” toward future bookings. More info is forthcoming on fees or restrictions here.
Though sold as a bundle, the packages are expected to be relatively flexible in terms of cancellation or changes and the application of Vacation Travel Credits. There’s still plenty to be revealed about the Getaways by Southwest program, including how supplier penalties may apply to changes or cancellations within a Getaways package and any additional incentives the airline plans to offer to make the packages more appealing to travelers.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

Matador: What distinguishes Getaways by Southwest from the previous Southwest Vacations program, and how will customers benefit from this new in-house approach?

Southwest: We’re giving customers more opportunities to choose Southwest for their vacation needs with an in-house packaged vacations product—Getaways by Southwest—launching in the second half of 2025. We will offer packages sold, operated, and serviced by Southwest, coupled with the legendary customer service for which we are known.

Just like with our core product for air travel, we intend to offer industry-leading flexibility to customers and add more value to our Rapid Rewards® loyalty program. We’re planning to launch in 30+ markets with bundled packages including air, hotel, car, and ground transportation options for leisure travelers, including key destinations like Las Vegas, Orlando, Cancun, Punta Cana, Montego Bay, and Hawaii.

How will the integration of Rapid Rewards points work with Getaways packages? Will customers be able to earn and redeem points for these vacation offerings?

Getaways will offer Customers the opportunity initially to earn Rapid Rewards points on bookings and eventually be able to redeem Rapid Rewards points for packages as well as Cash + Points.

Photo: T. Schneider /Shutterstock

What criteria were used to select the initial 30+ markets for Getaways, and are there plans to expand to additional destinations in the future?

We have paired the top destinations that US travelers are looking to book vacation packages along with Southwest market strength to identify our initial destinations for Getaways. We’ll continue to evaluate customer preferences as we build the Getaways product.

Could you provide more details about the partnerships with Caesars Entertainment, Playa Hotels & Resorts, and Sandos Hotels & Resorts? How will these collaborations enhance the customer experience?

As we shared at our Investor Day last fall, about 40% of vacation packages purchased by US travelers are to six markets, including Las Vegas, Orlando, Hawaii, and Cancun. Southwest Airlines has a very large presence in these large leisure markets, and we carry twice as many passengers to them than any other carrier. Having direct lodging partners allows us to work with those partners to offer the best packages to our customers. We will continue to add more direct lodging partnerships leading up to the launch of Getaways and beyond.

Will Getaways by Southwest packages include options beyond flights and hotels, such as car rentals or local attractions?

We’re planning to launch Getaways with bundled packages including air, hotel, car, and ground transportation options for leisure travelers. We plan to add activities and attractions post-launch.

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10 of the Steepest and Most Extreme Highways in North America for Thrill-Seeking Road Trippers

Ah, spring – when snow is melting off mountain peaks and the sun dares to peek out from behind gray winter clouds. For some, it means the start of family vacations and weekends spent hiking or camping. But for others, it’s time to hit the road.

But if you want this year’s scenic road trip to be different from years past, with a change of scenery and certainly no 10-hour drives across endless Kansas plains, explore these roads with the steepest highway grades in North America. Each has some insane hairpin turns and will test your brakes (and your nerves), especially since many are winding, two-lane roads.

While US federal law requires interstate highways to have a maximum grade of six percent, state highways are a different story. Pennsylvania maintains a highway with a 14.5-degree slope, and California is even steeper, with a highway at a whopping 26-degree grade. Highway grades are pretty easy to understand and expressed in 100-unit increments. For example, a highway with a six-percent grade means it gains (or loses) no more than six feet of elevation for every 100 feet of distance.

This year, for a road trip that won’t put you to sleep, choose one of these roads that put you at the edge of your seat – both to see the beauty outside your window and to brace yourself on the steep downhills.

California Route 108

Photo: Sundry Photography/Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Modesto to BridgeportSteepest section: Sonora PassMax grade: 26 percent

In the 1850s, entrepreneurs built a series of passes through the Sierra Nevada mountain range to help immigrants reach California during the Gold Rush. The narrow routes were first cleared for wagons and later became private toll roads, then state highways. These passes, called the Trans-Sierra roads, cross over some of the country’s most inhospitable terrain. As a result, the roads are winding, narrow, and definitely steep.

There are more than 20 passes throughout the Sierra Nevada, but none as precarious as the Sonora Pass along CA-108. It’s just 90 minutes away from Sacramento, but you’ll know you’re not in the city – the twisting, hairpin turns and slog as you trudge up a mountain road at an incredible 26-percent grade will make it very clear you’re deep into the mountains.

To further underscore the potential danger, know that this highway (along with several other Trans-Sierra roads) closes to the public for the winter. Between roughly November and April, you’ll have to take the long way around. (And, oh, is it long.) And even when the road is open, slick roads and icy conditions still demand well-honed driving skills.

Travelers searching for the utmost beauty on their road trips will want to take a short detour to Stanislaus National Forest. With 78 alpine lakes, towering trees, and plenty of wildlife, nature-lovers will find themselves among some of the nation’s most fascinating natural features without the crowds of Yosemite National Park to the south.

Texas Farm to Market Road (Route 170)

Photo: Moses Rode/Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Candelaria to Study ButteSteepest section: Area around Big Bend Ranch State ParkMax grade: 15 percent

Deep in the southwest corner of Texas, you’ll find this scenic highway that travels along the Rio Grande River. While a select few will recognize the road from the old western movie Contrabando, many will remember the steep, curving climb up what the locals dub “the Big Hill.”

Be careful when roadtripping along this highway. With no easy alternate route to Presidio or Big Bend National Park near the road’s endpoints, travelers have no choice but to drive up and down a 15-percent grade. And it’s reasonably common to have both wildlife and livestock wandering across the roads.

The advice here? Take your time.

As remote as this corner of Texas is (the nearest major city is San Antonio, which is six hours away), road-trippers will find only a spattering of cars along FM 170. Take “the Big Hill” as slowly as needed and enjoy the views from the overlook at the top. You likely won’t have any cell service either, so download a map in advance if you want to stop along the way. Cool nearby detours include the ghost town-turned-artistic hub of Terlingua, Big Bend Ranch State Park itself (not to be confused with Big Bend National Park), and the old movie set from Contrabando, which sits unmarked in a gully along the Rio Grande.

Utah Route 143

Photo: mark higgins/Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Parowan to PanguitchSteepest section: Area around Brian Head Ski ResortMax grade: 13 percent

Avid skiers may know this drive well. If you’re heading up to Brian Head ski resort for a long weekend, you’ll find yourself navigating one of the steepest roads in Utah.

Originally an old pioneer road used to transport logging materials, Utah Route 143 winds its way through the Dixie National Forest. The highway can reach grades of over 13 percent as it ascends to the top of the ski resort. As a result, drivers frequently overheat their brakes, and large trucks will try to avoid the byway altogether to keep them from catching fire. Oh, and of course, having fresh snow and ice on the ground really doesn’t help matters. Neither do the out-of-towners with two-wheel-drive cars and no winter driving skills trying to make their way in late at night on Fridays.

Due to sometimes icy conditions, the Utah Department of Transportation regulates the highway’s usage. Utah’s DOT regularly cleans the road and often requires chains in colder months. Because of their efforts, the most challenging aspect of driving this road is sharing it with the influx of skiers about to hit the slopes. If you go during a storm, make sure you have four-wheel-drive and snow tires or have chains in your trunk (and know how to put them on).

Wyoming US-Route 14

Photo: Jess Kraft/Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Yellowstone National Park to South Dakota state lineSteepest section: Shell CanyonMax grade: 13.5 percent

Before the interstate system modernized cross-country travel, Americans relied on US highways like Route 66. One such highway, built in 1926, runs from Chicago, Illinois, to Yellowstone National Park in Wyoming. But just a few hours from the park, the road starts to get a little sketchy.

US-14 enters Bighorn National Forest about an hour outside of Buffalo, Wyoming. But the bighorn sheep aren’t the only big thing in the forest. The highway traverses near Black Mountain and Sibley Lake while steadily climbing at an average grade of 10 percent. If you thought that was tough, wait until you start to climb up the 13.5-percent grade breaking point.

Needless to say, RVs face an uphill (or, rather, downhill) battle the entire way, and semis avoid the highway altogether.

The road ascends precariously high at a max elevation of 9,430 feet, and the state of Wyoming shuts it down to the public for the winter. In spring and fall, the obvious place to stop along this scenic drive is Yellowstone National Park, though Devil’s Tower (from Close Encounters of the Third Kind fame) and Cody, a historical western town founded by Buffalo Bill, are just a short drive off the main drag.

Colorado State Highway 149

Photo: Brian Wolski/Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: South Fork to GunnisonSteepest section: Around Slumgullion PassMax grade: 9.5 percent

Also known as the Silver Thread Scenic Byway, CO-149 meanders up through the Rio Grande National Forest to Slumgullion Pass at 11,530 feet above sea level. With dizzying grades as sharp as 9.5 percent, it’s Colorado’s steepest paved road.

The highway cuts through the middle of the national forest and travelers could spot deer, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep in their natural habitats – the fact that it’s one of the steepest highway grades in the US doesn’t bother them one bit. While navigating the highway for rogue wildlife, adventurers may also want to make a stop at Lake San Cristobal, about a three mile detour). It’s the state’s second-largest natural lake at around 9,000 feet.

The byway was built over an old mining road once used to transport ores and supplies to the San Juan Mountains. Even experienced road-trippers will likely find the driving conditions challenging. Drivers who would like to bypass the bypass (get it?), can take Highway 285, which circumvents the national forest in a more leisurely, albeit longer, drive.

Pennsylvania Route 487

Photo: SNEHIT PHOTO

Starting and ending points: Paxinos to DushoreSteepest section: Near Ricketts Glen State ParkMax grade: 14.5 percent

Travelers coming from Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, might be able to attest to the difficulties of driving along Route 487 once they get about two hours south of the city.

The highway snakes through the Allegheny Mountain range, where treacherous switchbacks and grades well over 10 percent are sure to have even the most avid drivers riding the brakes. At one point, the highway gains altitude at a 12.5-percent grade, and at its steepest, road-trippers will find themselves struggling up a 14.5-percent grade.

Route 487 is the most scenic drive to Ricketts Glen State Park, a park renowned for its waterfalls, including 94-foot-tall Ganoga Falls. So despite having one of the steepest highway grades in the US (or perhaps because of that), it’s worth the drive. Be sure to pay close attention to the road, however. Cyclists also love to explore this road, so be mindful of your speed as you hit these steep downhill grades.

California Route 4

Photo: N8Allen/Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Hercules to MarkleevilleSteepest section: Ebbetts PassMax grade: 24 percent

Ebbetts Pass Scenic Byway is a sister of the Sonora Pass along CA-108. Many Trans-Sierra passes are tough to navigate, but these two take the cake. While Sonora Pass has the steepest highway in California, this one is pretty close — and the narrow lanes and sloping shoulders with steep drop-offs certainly won’t inspire confidence in most drivers.

Route 4 winds for 61 miles through Stanislaus National Forest north of the Sonora Pass. The highway peaks at 8,700 feet and climbs portions of the range at 24-percent grades. Like Sonora Pass, Ebbetts Pass closes to the public for the winter. But come on: it’s one of the steepest highway grades in the US. You wouldn’t want to be caught on this insane road in the snow, anyway.

Those looking for an unforgettable road trip will love the scenery as the highway traverses through meadows and past reservoirs surrounded by pines. Travelers should take a moment to enjoy the beauty of the forest at Lake Alpine, and there’s a quick half-hike, half-scramble visitors can take to Ebbetts Peak. It’s only about half a mile long, though it gains about 450 feet of elevation.

As beautiful as it is, if you don’t want to take such an aggressive pass, opt for Highway 120, also known as Tioga Pass Road. It crosses the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range but is more evenly graded and maintained, though it also closes from roughly November to May. Of course, this will take you right through Yosemite National Park, so you won’t sacrifice too much beauty by skipping Stanislaus National Forest.

British Columbia Highway 99

Photo: EB Adventure Photography/Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Surrey to Cache CreekSteepest section: Around Duffey Lake Provincial ParksMax grade: 11 percent

There aren’t many Canadian highways that match the steepness of the US, and that’s for a good reason. With more snow, colder winters, and taller mountains than their neighbors to the south, the mountains in British Columbia are no joke to traverse, even in the best of conditions. As such, there are limited options to travel through parts of the country.

However, there is one notable route through the mountains: Highway 99. It connects Vancouver to the other side of the mountains near the Alberta border, crossing north of Whistler in the process. And it’s not without its trials.

The highway is constantly under inclement weather warnings for rain and snow. Now pin on an 11-percent grade near the peak, and it’s no surprise the locals have nicknamed this road the “Highway of Death” and the “Ski-And-Die Highway.” However, travelers willing to drive the stretch can stop at Garibaldi Provincial Park and hike to the famous lake’s narrow cliff edges, which offer breathtaking views. The road is considered one of Canada’s steepest, but also one of Canada’s most beautiful.

Mexican Federal Highway 120 (Las Adjuntas Road)

Photo: Matt Gush /Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Pinal de Amoles to Arroyo SecoSteepest section: The hairpin turnsMax grade: Above 20 percent

Located in the Mexican state of Querétaro, Mexican Federal Highway 120 descends more than 5,000 feet in under 15 miles. Like most gnarly mountain passes, there are a collection of hairpin turns and steep drop-offs along the way, making this a rough drive for anyone with vertigo. Drivers also cross a bridge and pass through a mountain tunnel, and depending on the time of year may deal with weather — central Mexico is a high-elevation area that sees everything from rain to occasional snow and hail.

Road-tripping through the Mexican highlands is beautiful — but it’s not for the faint of heart. End in the city of Santiago de Querétaro and explore the historic Centro and iconic aquaduct that bisects the city.

El Espinazo del Diablo (Devil’s Backbone) – Mexican Federal Highway 40

Photo: Eduardo Cabanas /Shutterstock

Starting and ending points: Durango to MazatlanSteepest section: Devil’s BendMax grade: 14 percent

El Espinazo del Diablo climbs steeply up a mountain ridge in the Sierra Madre Occidental, near Mexico’s west coast. It’s strikingly beautiful — and more than a little bit scary. It’s so famous that there’s even a sign proclaiming its name that drivers see as they approach the stretch of road. Drivers encounter some 3,000 curves over 170 miles, including numerous hairpin turns and switchbacks, making it a favorite among motorcyclists and adventure seekers who don’t mind the 9,002-foot peak elevation and steep drop-off (not to mention the exposure).

This stretch of Mexican Federal Highway 40 is known for its narrow lanes, steep drop-offs, and lack of guardrails in certain sections. These features demand heightened attention and caution from drivers. Though, a modern alternative is to take Highway 40D, which opened in 2013 and avoids the danger.

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The Best Hotels Near Monterrey’s Estadio BBVA for Soccer Fans

Monterrey, Mexico’s third-largest city, will be in the spotlight during the FIFA World Cup 2026, with Estadio BBVA set to host four key matches that’ll bring fans from across the Americas. The 53,500-seat arena — home to C.F. Monterrey — is one of the most technologically advanced in Latin America, with a FIFA-standard pitch and facilities built for large-scale, international events.

Although you can’t exactly walk from your hotel to the gate, staying close is still convenient. Monterrey’s expanding its public transit system ahead of the World Cup, including updates to metro and bus lines that should make getting to and from the stadium more manageable. Some hotels are expected to run shuttle services — though details are still to be confirmed — and all of the ones listed here are within a 20-minute drive of the venue. These are well-known brands with the kind of reliability and amenities that make planning your stay easier, including on-site dining, streamlined check-ins, and loyalty perks for members. With tournament demand expected to spike, rooms near the stadium (particularly those with transit access or shuttle services) are likely to fill up fast. So, if Monterrey’s on your World Cup itinerary, it’s worth booking early.

Monterrey is one of three host cities in Mexico, alongside Guadalajara and Mexico City, and will stage three group matches plus one knockout round. The games at Estadio BBVA are:

June 14, 2026: Group StageJune 20, 2026: Group StageJune 24, 2026: Group StageJune 29, 2026: Round of 32

Final matchups and kickoff times will be confirmed after the FIFA draw in late 2025. For those eager to secure a spot, FIFA has .

Whether you’re catching one match or following your team through the tournament, these hotels near Estadio BBVA offer easy access for soccer fans making Monterrey their base.

We hope you love the hotels near Estadio BBVA​ 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 hotels near Estadio BBVA​

City Express by Marriott Monterrey Lindavista

Photo: Marriott

Location: Av. Miguel Alemán 5331, Las Americas, 67130 GuadalupeHow far from the stadium: 10-minute drivePrice: From $71

Just 10 minutes from Estadio BBVA, City Express by Marriott Monterrey Lindavista is a practical option for fans looking to stay close to the action. Located in Guadalupe, a busy residential-commercial area, the hotel has quick access to major roads and nearby local spots like Sierra Madre Brewing Co., a laid-back microbrewery serving burgers and craft beer, and La Casona, a casual Mexican grill popular with families and locals. The rooms are simple but functional — air conditioning, work desks, and Smart TVs — ideal if you’re not planning to spend much time inside. You can fuel up with an American-style breakfast before heading to the match or hit the small fitness center to shake off jet lag. Free parking and a 24-hour front desk make check-in and check-out smooth, and with the airport about 20 minutes away, it’s also a convenient spot for a quick in-and-out trip.

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City Express Plus by Marriott Monterrey Nuevo Sur

Photo: Marriott

Location: Av. Revolución 2703, La Ladrillera, 64830 MonterreyHow far from the stadium: 20-minute drivePrice: From $94

Set inside a lively shopping and dining complex, this City Express Plus makes it easy to balance match-day plans with exploring the local neighborhood. You’re about a 20-minute drive from Estadio BBVA, with easy access to taxis and bus routes. Right outside the lobby you’ll find an open-air plaza with restaurants, cafés, boutique shops, and a Cinemex. The rooms are modern and straightforward, with flat-screen TVs, blackout curtains, and plenty of natural light. The hotel includes a small gym and offers a free continental breakfast, which helps with early kickoffs. Fundidora Park — a former steel foundry turned urban park with museums, gardens, and walking trails — is just a few minutes away if you’re staying more than a night or two and want to see more of the city.

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Fiesta Inn Monterrey Fundidora

Photo: Fiesta Inn Monterrey Fundidora

Location: Av. Churubusco #701, Esq. Prolongación, Eje Metropolitano 30, Fierro, 64590 MonterreyHow far from the stadium: 10-minute drivePrice: From $106

Fiesta Inn Monterrey Fundidora is one of the closest hotels to Estadio BBVA and sits near the eastern edge of Fundidora Park, making it a convenient spot for both game days and short walks to some of Monterrey’s main attractions. The hotel has a straightforward, no-frills vibe geared toward business travelers, but offers useful extras like a small outdoor pool, gym, and on-site restaurant that stays open late. Rooms are functional and quiet, with blackout curtains and decent soundproofing. Previous guests point out the helpful front desk team and easy late-night check-ins, which come in handy if you’re flying in for just one match. It’s also a short ride to Macroplaza and other central neighborhoods, giving you a few more ways to spend your downtime between matches.

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Four Points by Sheraton Monterrey Linda Vista

Photo: Marriott

Location: Av. Miguel Alemán 6064, Torres de Linda Vista, 67138 GuadalupeHow far from the stadium: 10-minute drivePrice: From $80

Another reliable option within a short drive of Estadio BBVA, Four Points by Sheraton Monterrey Linda Vista is located in the eastern part of Guadalupe and offers easy access to local landmarks like Paseo Santa Lucía, a 1.5-mile canal-side walkway with bridges and boat rides, and Parque La Silla, a shady green space popular for weekend strolls and afternoon picnics. Rooms are simple but well-outfitted. There’s an outdoor pool that will be especially welcome in June and July, when average highs in Monterrey hover in the 90s. The restaurant serves local and international dishes, and if you’re collecting Bonvoy points, this is an easy way to earn a few while you’re in town for the tournament.

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Hilton Monterrey Valle

Photo: Booking.com

Location: Ave. Fundadores, C.P 1000 Col, Valle del Mirador, 64750 MonterreyHow far from the stadium: 20-minute drivePrice: From $161

If you’re looking to level up your stay, Hilton Monterrey Valle delivers a four-star experience that feels worth the extra 10-minute drive to Estadio BBVA. Set in the upscale Valle Oriente district, the hotel is connected to Galerías Valle Oriente, a shopping mall where you can pick up anything from soccer merchandise to sushi. The rooftop pool and bar have views of the city and surrounding mountains — a welcome perk if you’re cooling off after an early kickoff under Monterrey’s summer sun. Rooms are sleek and spacious, with big windows and a mix of city and mountain views depending on which side you’re on. At the time of publication, shuttle service to the stadium hadn’t been confirmed, but Hilton was still finalizing logistics — and odds are good they’ll be running something on match days. World of Hyatt members can also rack up or cash in points while they’re here.

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Holiday Inn Express Monterrey

Photo: IHG Hotels and Resorts

Location: Av Fundidora 200, Obrera, 64010 MonterreyHow far from the stadium: 10-minute drivePrice: From $116

Well priced and right next to one of Monterrey’s most walkable cultural hubs, the Holiday Inn Express Monterrey and its neighbor, Holiday Inn Monterrey — Parque Fundidora, offer easy access to both Estadio BBVA and the city’s biggest event venues. In addition to being 10 minutes from the stadium, you’ll have pedestrian access to spots like the contemporary art museum at Parque Fundidora, Paseo Santa Lucía, and the Cineteca Nuevo León, which screens international and Mexican films. Arena Monterrey and the — two of the city’s biggest live event venues — are also nearby, which makes these two hotels a good option if you’re planning to check out concerts, exhibits, or cultural events between matchdays. Rooms are unflashy but well maintained, with functional layouts and soundproof walls with extras like work desks and firm mattresses. Both hotels include gyms and business centers, and the Express location includes a free breakfast.

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The Westin Monterrey Valle

Photo: Booking.com

Location: Av. Manuel Gomez Morin y Rio Missouri, Punto ValleHow far from the stadium: 18-minute drivePrice: From $194

The five-star Westin Monterrey Valle has been listed as a potential Team Base Camp for the matches, which means national teams could be staying here during the tournament’s group stage. It’s about a 10-minute drive from Estadio BBVA and sits in San Pedro Garza García, one of the city’s most upscale neighborhoods. Inside, rooms are bright and modern with floor-to-ceiling windows, and many have views of the mountains or city skyline. There’s a full-service spa and a fitness center, along with a rooftop pool that offers views of the Sierra Madre mountains and shaded seating near the outdoor bar — and if the hotel does host a national squad, you might even find yourself sharing the deck with players between training sessions.

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The Best Hotels Near Toronto’s BMO Field for Soccer Fans

The world’s biggest sporting event is coming to Canada for the first time, and Toronto is one of two Canadian cities — alongside Vancouver — set to host matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The city will stage six fixtures at BMO Field, including the historic opener featuring the Canadian Men’s National Team.

BMO Field sits along Lake Ontario in Exhibition Place, a hub for major events. It’s being upgraded with temporary seating to expand capacity from around 30,000 to over 40,000, plus enhancements to video boards, lighting, and concessions to handle increased crowds. The stadium is one of the easiest to access in any host city, connected by TTC streetcars, GO Transit at Exhibition Station, and walkable routes from Liberty Village and Parkdale. It’s also just minutes from downtown, waterfront parks, and restaurants.

Toronto is one of 16 host cities across Canada, the US, and Mexico for the expanded 48-team tournament. Whether you’re planning to see a single game or the full slate, here’s what’s scheduled at BMO Field:

June 12, 2026: Group Stage (Canada’s Men’s National Team opener)June 17, 2026: Group StageJune 20, 2026: Group StageJune 23, 2026: Group StageJune 26, 2026: Group StageJuly 2, 2026: Round of 32 (knockout match)

Exact matchups and kickoff times will be announced following the FIFA Final Draw in late 2025. Fans can pre-register now for ticket and hospitality updates.

We hope you love the hotels near BMO Field, Toronto 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 hotels near BMO Field

1 Hotel Toronto

Photo: 1 Hotels

Location: 550 Wellington St W, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 30-minute walkPrice: From $499 per night

Just far enough from the stadium to avoid the matchday crowds but close enough to walk in under half an hour, 1 Hotel Toronto is set in the King West neighborhood, a part of the city known for its restaurants, patios, and nightlife. The first Canadian outpost from the sustainably-minded brand uses local materials and natural design elements — glacier-carved stone, salvaged wood, and over 3,000 plants — to create interiors that are clean-lined and contemporary. Rooms come with yoga mats, filtered water in recycled wine bottles, and views of the city skyline or Lake Ontario through floor-to-ceiling windows. With Toronto’s World Cup fixtures taking place in June and early July, the hotel’s rooftop pool will likely be one of the most sought-after spots to unwind after a match. On-site dining includes the organic-focused 1 Kitchen and a Japanese-influenced rooftop restaurant. Free bike rentals and a house Tesla are available if you’re not up for the walk to the match — though the route down Bathurst and across the Exhibition grounds makes a scenic pre-game stroll.

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Ace Hotel Toronto

Photo: Ace Hotel

Location: 51 Camden St, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 30-minute walkPrice: From $170 per night

The Ace Hotel is a 30-minute walk from BMO Field, set in the city’s historic Garment District — a short stretch of converted warehouses that now host design studios, record shops, and some of Toronto’s best late-night haunts. Drawing from the neighborhood’s industrial history, the structure features custom brickwork, red oak, and raw concrete forming the framework for a striking series of arches that give the lobby its theatrical presence. Inside, details like curated Canadian vinyl on the in-room turntables, Douglas fir paneling, and window benches overlooking St. Andrew’s Playground Park keep things local. Alder, the restaurant helmed by chef Patrick Kriss, sits just below the lobby and serves wood-fired dishes, and after a match, Evangeline — the 14th-floor rooftop bar with skyline views and a rotating DJ lineup — is one of the better places nearby to wrap up the night.

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Gladstone House

Photo: Gladstone House

Location: 1214 Queen St W, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 20-minute walkPrice: From $150 per night

For matchgoers looking to stay somewhere with personality, Gladstone House is one of the more character-driven hotels within walking distance of BMO Field. Housed in a red-brick Victorian building on Queen Street West, this 55-room hotel is part artist residency, part gallery, and part social hub. Each room is individually designed by a Canadian artist, with titles instead of room numbers and decor that ranges from understated to boldly unconventional. The hotel’s common areas include a pool table, rotating exhibitions, and a lobby bar that stays busy most nights. You’re about a 20-minute walk from the stadium and even closer to local music institutions like the Drake Underground (more on this below) and The Gladstone’s own performance space, which has long been a fixture in Toronto’s indie scene.

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Hotel X Toronto

Photo: Hotel X Toronto

Location: 111 Princes’ Blvd, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 10-minute walkPrice: From $226 per night

If you’re after convenience above all, Hotel X Toronto is the only hotel within Exhibition Place itself — meaning you’ll be just a 10-minute walk from your seat at BMO Field. But proximity isn’t the only draw. This 30-story lakefront property spans nine acres and brings together resort-style amenities and top-notch sports facilities, including indoor tennis and squash courts, a golf simulator, and one of the largest hotel gyms in Canada. Rooms are light-filled and understated, with floor-to-ceiling windows and skyline or lake views, while the rooftop pool and Falcon SkyBar offer post-match lounging with a view. For guests traveling with family, there’s a dedicated kids’ play center; for those coming in for more than just soccer, a two-screen cinema, art gallery, and Canada’s first Guerlain Spa round out the on-site perks. It’s one of the most well-equipped stays near the stadium — especially if you want more than just a place to sleep between fixtures.

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Hyatt Regency Toronto

Photo: Hyatt Regency Toronto

Location: 370 King St W, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 45-minute walk or a 15-minute drivePrice: From $244 per night

If you don’t mind being a little farther from the action, the Hyatt Regency Toronto offers a solid base in the heart of the Entertainment District — about a 45-minute walk or 15-minute drive, or 30-minute streetcar ride to BMO Field. It’s surrounded by some of the city’s biggest cultural landmarks, including the CN Tower, Rogers Centre, and TIFF Bell Lightbox, which makes it a convenient pick if you’re looking to combine soccer with sightseeing. The 394 rooms are practical and comfortable, with large LED TVs, and ergonomic workstations. There’s a rooftop pool open in summer, a 24-hour gym, and a sauna for a quick reset between match days. For food and drinks, you’ve got King Street Social Kitchen for sit-down dining, and Mix Bistro Bar for cocktails and smaller bites.

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Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown

Photo: Radisson Hotels

Location: 249 Queens Quay W, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 35-minute walk or a eight-minute drivePrice: From $155 per night

Closer to the lakefront and just south of the downtown core, the Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown puts you within a 35-minute walk, eight-minute drive, or 30-minute streetcar ride of BMO Field, with the Harbourfront literally steps from the door. The property delivers what you’d expect from the Radisson brand: clean, consistent, and efficient, with the added bonus of direct views of Lake Ontario and the CN Tower skyline. Rooms have been recently renovated and come with either city or water views, and in summer, the rooftop Lakeview Pool Lounge is an easy win for post-match downtime. You’re also within walking distance of major venues like Rogers Centre and Scotiabank Arena, and there’s an on-site fitness center. It’s a straightforward, reliable option — especially for fans looking to stay close to the waterfront without overspending.

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Sonder at The Liberty

Photo: Sonder

Location: 1100 King St W, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 10-minute walkPrice: From $126 per night

Sonder at The Liberty is a smart pick near BMO Field if you want more space and the option to cook your own meals. Set in Liberty Village — a former industrial area that’s evolved into a neighborhood filled with breweries, cafés, and coworking spaces — the property offers fully furnished units with floor-to-ceiling windows, in-room laundry, and well-equipped kitchens. There’s also a rooftop pool, a fitness center, and a grocery store on the ground floor, making it a practical pick for longer stays or those looking for more flexibility than a standard hotel allows.

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The Drake Hotel

Photo: The Drake Hotel

Location: 1150 Queen St W, TorontoHow far from the stadium: 25-minute walkPrice: From $288 per night

The Drake Hotel is a 25-minute walk from BMO Field and is one of Toronto’s most character-rich stays. Since opening in 2004, this Queen Street West landmark has become a standout among Toronto’s boutique hotels, known as much for its cultural programming as its rooms. The original century-old building now connects to a sleek Modern Wing, bringing the total to 51 rooms that range from from compact “Nooks” (small but cleverly designed rooms for single travelers or couples) to a sprawling rooftop terrace suites. Interiors are playful, mixing high ceilings, curated artwork, and local touches like minibars stocked with Ontario snacks. The hotel features a café and lounge on the main level, plus a rooftop patio bar with DJs, art installations, and a steady local crowd. And if you end up catching a second show at the Underground (the hotel’s in-house music venue) instead of heading straight to bed — well, you wouldn’t be the first.

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Saudi Arabia’s Diriyah Gate Is Quickly Becoming a Global Heritage Tourism Hub With World-Class Hotels and Experiences

Just beyond the modern sprawl of Riyadh, a centuries-old capital is being reborn. In Diriyah — the cradle of the first Saudi state — and the nearby valley of Wadi Safar, a sweeping development initiative is unfolding that promises to position Saudi Arabia as a global force in heritage-based tourism.

Backed by the $63 billion Diriyah Gate Development Authority (DGDA) and a key pillar of Vision 2030, this megaproject aims to do more than restore the past. It seeks to entwine history with high design, tradition with wellness, and nature with next-generation sustainability.

At the heart of Diriyah lies At-Turaif, the UNESCO-listed mud-brick citadel that once housed the ruling Al Saud family. The entire 11-square-kilometer zone is being developed into a mixed-use district fusing cultural institutions, fine dining, and world-class hospitality. More than 100 restaurants and 38 hotel brands are slated for development.

Several luxury hotels are set to enhance the Diriyah Gate development, each offering distinct experiences that blend cultural heritage with modern sophistication. The Langham Diriyah, inspired by traditional Najdi architecture and natural elements, is scheduled to open in 2026, providing guests with a culturally immersive stay just 15 minutes from downtown Riyadh. The Chedi Wadi Safar, expected to open in 2026, will offer a tranquil retreat with panoramic views over a Greg Norman-designed golf course, drawing on The Chedi brand’s legacy of wellness and discreet luxury.

Other notable additions include the Rosewood Diriyah, anticipated to open in 2027, which aims to blend the brand’s signature luxury with the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The Orient Express Diriyah Gate, also slated for 2027, will mark the brand’s entry into the Middle East, offering 80 rooms that reflect the elegance and history associated with the Orient Express legacy. Additionally, the Anantara Diriyah Hotel, opening in 2025, will bring Thai-rooted luxury to the area with 250 rooms that emphasize eco-friendly practices and sophisticated style. These developments underscore Diriyah Gate’s commitment to becoming a premier global destination that honors its historical roots while embracing contemporary luxury.

One of the most anticipated is the Six Senses Wadi Safar. Scheduled to open in 2026, the property emphasizes a nature-centric approach by integrating panoramic desert views, a hammam, Earth Lab sustainability workshops, and sensory-focused wellness suites.

What sets this development apart is its deep commitment to cultural authenticity by using traditional Najdi materials for construction, and integrating Sadu cultural touchpoints and culinary offerings.

For families, initiatives like “Grow With Six Senses” will introduce younger guests to conservation and local crafts, while brands like Fauchon and Capella will offer more cosmopolitan flair — think in-room gourmet bars or suites built around skylights for stargazing.

Here, heritage isn’t just preserved, it’s lived. With a deliberate blend of hospitality, history, and sustainability, Six Senses Wadi Safar and the broader Diriyah area are poised to become a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s future goals and a new model for heritage-led tourism.

As Six Senses CEO Neil Jacobs put it in a press release: “As the Kingdom evolves and opens to tourism, it is garnering strong interest among international visitors to explore its heritage sites and outstanding natural beauty.” The coming years will determine just how much people appreciate that potential — but the groundwork has been laid for something historic.

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Napa Who? The Forgotten Legacy of America’s First Official Wine Region in Missouri.

In the soft folds of Missouri’s Ozark Highlands, where fog clings to rocky bluffs and ancient oak and hickory trees shade narrow roads, sits a town so small you can drive through it in under three minutes. This is Augusta, population 264. Its claim to fame? It was America’s first official wine region. It happened long before Napa, before Sonoma, and long before Texas Hill Country.

Yes, before the Pacific breeze-kissed vineyards and polished tasting rooms came to define California’s wine empire, there was Augusta, Missouri, granted American Viticultural Area (AVA) status in June 1980 – seven months before Napa Valley earned the designation. Here in America’s heartland, on a crescent-shaped ridge along the Missouri River atop subterranean layers of glacial silt and limestone, American wine culture first put down its literal and figurative roots.

Tiny town, big wine legacy

A historical photo of an Augusta, Missouri, wine cellar (date unknown). Photo: Library of Congress/Public Domain

With just a few hundred residents and blink-and-you’ll-miss-it main street, Augusta hardly looks the part of a wine trailblazer. But that’s only based on our current perceptions of places like Napa and Monterey County. Back in the 1800s, German immigrants saw something familiar in the region’s undulating hills and river valleys. The area, called Mt. Pleasant at the time, was (and still is) strikingly similar to the Rhine River Valley in western Germany. Sticking to what they knew, the Germans planted grape varieties, similar to the ones they had back home.

Missouri had an active, robust wine industry by 1850, with more than 100,000 gallons produced statewide each year. For context, Los Angeles, another thriving wine region at the time, produced about half that. Mount Pleasant Estates, founded in 1859 and still in operation today, was the first winery, its cellars built from native wood and limestone. At its peak, Missouri was the second-largest wine-producing state in the country, behind – believe it or not – Ohio. However, that early success wasn’t solely about terroir: timing and tenacity played just as big, if not bigger, roles.

The valley’s central location provided easy access to major trade routes along the Mississippi River and via railroads to Chicago. Even more critical, though, were the local scientists that played a key role in solving one of the wine world’s biggest crises at the time: phylloxera blight. When a tiny aphid devastated French vineyards in the late 1800s, Missouri entomologists and viticulturists developed hybrid, blight-resistant roots from native American grapes. Working in tandem with local grape growers who planted new vineyards at a rapid rate to help, they shipped millions to France, allowing the country to replant its historic vineyards and resurrect its wine culture.

And then, quite literally overnight, it all vanished.

From boom to bust and back again

New York City Deputy Police Commissioner John A. Leach, right, watching agents pour liquor into sewer following a raid during the height of Prohibition. Photo: Library of Congress/Public Domain

The Volstead Act, commonly known as Prohibition, swept across the US in 1920, banning the sale, distribution and production of alcoholic beverages. Vineyards were razed and wineries shuttered. After nearly a century of momentum, Missouri’s wine legacy nearly faded into obscurity.

Even after the Act’s repeal in 1933, rebirth took time. Winemakers slowly returned in the 1960s and ‘70s, renovating long-abandoned wineries. By the time the federal government created the AVA system in 1980, modeled after longstanding European regulations to more accurately define and label wine origins, Augusta was ready to stake its claim as a leading wine region.

Following strict guidelines, Augusta winemakers became the first group to complete an AVA application and be interviewed by the United States Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB). To earn the designation, an area must have a definitive border, unique soil, geology, and climate, and historical significance. The 15-square-mile area surrounding tiny Augusta, uniquely protected from frigid winter winds and with fertile, mineral-rich soil, was a natural choice.

Rerooted

Norton is the official state grape of Missouri. Photo: Ruth Swan/Shutterstock

It’s the rugged, steadfast land that ultimately brought Augusta back. Or, more specifically, the soil and vines, seemingly purpose-built for endurance by Mother Nature herself.

That’s where norton comes in. Deep purple, tenacious, and uniquely Midwestern, norton is one of America’s oldest native cultivated grape varieties, and Missouri’s official state grape. Hardy enough to survive the region’s harsh winters and humid summers, norton yields bold and peppery red wines. It’s often compared to zinfandel, but interestingly, norton has high acidity levels — unusual for red grapes in general and the opposite of low-acidity zin. This unique profile is sometimes referred to as the “norton twang,” ensuring the one-of-a-kind wine packs a rich, sometimes tart, and always earthy taste, with notes of coffee and chocolate.

Alongside Nnorton, a host of French-American hybrid grapes like chambourcin, vignoles, and seyval blanc thrive in the Augusta AVA. More familiar grapes, including chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon, also perform well here, often showing surprising depth and complex berry notes.

A town defined by wine

A cyclist on the Katy Trail near Augusta, Missouri. Photo: Lana G/Shutterstock

Visit Augusta on a sunny weekend, and you’ll feel the distinct pulse of a town built around wine. Five wineries open to the public occupy the AVA’s compact footprint, each with its own character and lineup. Notably, you won’t detect one shred of pretentiousness at any of them. The charm here lies in authenticity. It’s common to see cyclists pull off the Katy Trail (a 240-mile rail trail cutting through town) for a tasting, and casual, come-as-you-are festivals draw day-trippers from St. Louis year-round.

At the center of it all is Mount Pleasant Estates, still operating out of its original limestone cellars. The winery feels like a time capsule in the best way, and legend has it, you can find the only two wine barrels in Missouri that survived Prohibition in those cellars. Visitors can sample the widely celebrated norton at nearby Augusta Winery, pair wines with elevated rustic Italian cuisine at Balducci Vineyards’ wide-open spaces, or take in expansive views of the entire valley from the sunny terrace at Montelle Winery.

The perks of being under the radar

Photo: Visit Missouri

Despite its storied history, Augusta’s greatest strength lies in never trying to imitate or compete with other esteemed wine regions. While California wine country can feel exclusive, overwhelming, and prohibitively expensive, Augusta remains refreshingly approachable. Visitors don’t have to book tastings weeks in advance, or at all for that matter, and there’s no pressure to join exclusive wine clubs. You can drift between wineries on a whim, stay in cozy B&Bs, and leave with a surprisingly affordable bottle or two of wine you’ve never heard of. Expect to pay between $20-30 for a bottle of norton or vignoles.

This is precisely what makes Augusta so appealing in today’s travel landscape. As oenotourism booms and popular wine destinations face the ever-mounting stress of overtourism, travelers are increasingly seeking lesser-known regions with just as much on tap (pun very much intended). Augusta’s roads are quiet, its people and businesses are welcoming, and the wine flows year-round.

The next chapter

Photo: LanaG/Shutterstock

Augusta doesn’t rest on its historic laurels. A major revitalization is underway, spearheaded by the Hoffmann Family of Companies, which owns four of the five local wineries open to visitation (all but Noboleis Vineyards). The developers’ $150-million vision includes a vineyard expansion, a luxury downtown hotel and spa, a golf course and amphitheater, and the introduction of the “Miss Augusta,” a luxury, three-story river cruise yacht.

Getting to and around Augusta

Augusta is about an hour drive west of St. Louis. Once you arrive, park your vehicle at your lodging until it’s time to head home. It’s easy to walk between Augusta Winery and Mount Pleasant Estates, or bike along sleepy roads to Noboleis, along with several restaurants and shops. Visitors can rent bicycles from businesses in town, though some Airbnbs or lodging options may include them for guest use. On Saturdays from May through October, you can also hop on the free wine trolley. It runs in a continuous loop and passengers don’t need tickets or reservations.

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Ask Matador: How to Pitch A Photo Essay

You’ve just returned from the trip of a lifetime, and your camera roll is packed with incredible shots. Friends and family are raving about your eye for photography. “You should get those published,” they keep saying. You start to see the potential in your images — and decide to seek out opportunities to get published as a photo essayist.

Matador Creators is often on the lookout for writer-photographers to take pre-arranged trips, capture some excellent shots, and showcase your work via our site. In this Ask Matador column, Matador Network’s photo editor shares what makes a compelling photo essay, how to pitch it effectively via Matador Creators, and how to get your images ultimately published.

What makes a good photo essay?

Good photo essays tell compelling stories. When reviewing your photo catalog, don’t just focus on what you consider your most technically impressive shots — look for the ones that convey a strong narrative. Striking images are important, of course, but context is often what elevates a good photo into something meaningful.

Take this image, for example. At first glance, it might look like a simple portrait. But the story behind it is what made it a finalist for this year’s World Press Photo of the Year. Background does matter!

How do I put together a photo essay pitch?

If you’re browsing opportunities on Matador Creators, see a call for a photo essay, and know you’re the writer-photographer for the job, we’d love to hear from you. When pitching, try to follow the “less is more” rule — share a brief bio with related experience, links to your writing and photography, and a couple of potential titles that make sense based on the trip you’re applying to take (although the actual essay you submit may have a different angle).

What makes a pitch stand out?

For Matador Creators trips, we typically look for the same qualities in photo essay pitches as we do for traditional pitches (more on how to submit a successful application). That means focusing on your photography and writing experience over sending fully fleshed out story ideas — although we’d love to get a sense of your creativity and perspective (and are always on the lookout for great stories), so sharing some initial thoughts is always good.

Because you’re not submitting a pitch with photos, it’s essential to include a link to your portfolio or previously published work. If this is your first time pitching and you don’t have an online portfolio, no problem — share your Instagram or anywhere else your work is displayed online.

How much do I have to write? Can I just submit the images?

Even the most incredible images need context. Captions are essential, and photo essays work best when both your visuals and your writing come together to tell a complete and compelling story. How much text you include, exactly, depends entirely on the story you want to tell through your photos. Sometimes a single line of context is enough; other times, you may need a few short paragraphs. Let the story guide the words.

Beyond captions, you should expect to write roughly 250-300 words for an intro contextualizing the story and giving a brief rundown of the equipment you used if the story is relevant to travel photography specifically and not just travel generally (such as a stargazing trip).

How many images do I need for a photo essay?

In general, it depends on the story you want to tell. Sometimes a single image can carry enough emotional or narrative weight to stand on its own — just take a look at the World Press Photo nominees mentioned earlier. However, in travel media, it’s more common to build a visual story using a series of images. The key is to include only the images that truly serve the story.

As a rule for Matador Creators trips, plan to submit 15-20 photographs along with your draft. Most of the photo essays we publish end up falling between 10-20 photos, and submitting on the higher end of that range gives your editors some extra shots to work with.

Do I need a professional camera? Any recommended gear?

The best gear for capturing images for a photo essay is whatever you’re comfortable traveling with. Modern smartphones have remarkably capable cameras, and their versatility can be a huge advantage when shooting on the go. Professional cameras produce high-quality images and, coupled with the right lens, can basically adapt to any type of content. If you’re into aerial photography, drones can also add a unique perspective to your storytelling.

Ultimately, the best gear is a personal choice. It depends on your travel style, the kind of images you want to create, and how much money you’re willing to invest. If you don’t know where to start, check out this guide that Matador editors put together.

What size and resolution are the best for submitting photos?

No matter where you’re submitting your work, sending massive files is rarely appreciated. For general pitches and most online publications, medium-sized JPEGs — between 1080 and 1920 pixels wide — are more than sufficient. Unless explicitly requested, never submit full-size JPEGs or TIFF files. They’re too large for editorial review and will likely be downscaled anyway.

At Matador Network, we use images that are 1600 pixels wide at 72 dpi across the site. Keep this in mind when submitting your Matador Creators imagery. Images smaller than this will look blocky, and larger images will simply be resized to fit this resolution.

Examples of Matador’s photo essays

Photo essays can offer an in-depth window into other cultures by capturing some of their most meaningful traditions. These pieces on the Maasai Olympics in Kenya and the Züglete Cow Festival in Switzerland are great examples of cultural commentary paired with visually rich galleries that help readers understand the significance of these events.

Other times, photo essays can spark travel inspiration by offering a detailed account of a remarkable journey. This essay on a Yosemite hiking trip not only showcases the area’s breathtaking landscapes but also brings readers along some of its most iconic hiking trails. Another piece, chronicling a winter train trip through Alaska, tells the story of a five-day journey in search of the northern lights, with photos that highlight both unique experiences and stunning natural scenery.

How do I know if my work is ready for publication?

Don’t wait until you feel your work is perfect or you’ve ticked every box on a gear checklist. If you’ve got a strong story, compelling images, and the curiosity to explore a subject, you’re already on the right track and most likely ready to pitch your work!

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Celebrating 35 Years, This Classic Aruba Resort Just Got Better

“Bon bini,” a server at the Regency Club lounge at Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort Spa and Casino said as she placed a glass of Champagne in front of me. The drink was a welcome sight after I’d traveled more than half a day to get to the resort, which is located off Palm Beach on the Dutch Caribbean island of Aruba.

Bon bini means “welcome” in Papiamento, one of Aruba’s official languages, along with Dutch. This warm welcome is reflective of Aruba’s nickname — “One Happy Island” — which speaks to the island’s sunny weather and welcoming hospitality.

This sentiment runs deep at Hyatt Regency Aruba, from the resort’s dedication to making guests feel at home to its inviting, open-concept layout. Each space flows seamlessly from one area to the next and from indoors to outdoors. As I strolled around the property and waited for my room to be ready, I took note of how the contemporary decor mixed with the natural surroundings. This design sensibility is especially evident in the lobby, which was recently renovated ahead of the resort’s 35th anniversary in October.

It’s also evident in the animals you’ll see around the property — so much so that the resort’s sales coordinator, Jerelaine Romano, joked with me that “the wildlife are the true owners of the hotel.”

Small lizards are a frequent sighting, as are a variety of wildlife ambassadors. This includes dozens of large koi fish in the lagoon, ducks, Francisco the black swan, a turquoise cododo lizard (aka Aruban whiptail lizard), and a green iguana. Hyatt Regency Aruba is also home to three parrots: Rocky (a yellow-shouldered Amazon), Chichi (an African grey), and Bibi (a blue and gold macaw).

Beach, garden, or resort views: Rooms at Hyatt Regency Aruba

Photos: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino

Located in Palm Beach’s high-rise hotel area, Hyatt Regency Aruba has 364 guest rooms, including 16 suites, 31 premium, and seven accessible rooms. Rooms come with either a king or double queen beds and either resort, beach, or garden views. The building wraps around the resort, so the rooms facing the interior get a sprawling view of the property, overlooking the family pool and Alfresco Bar (one of several on-site dining and drinking venues).

My home for the next few days was one of four recently renovated rooms on the fifth floor. When I walked in and turned the corner, I was greeted by large windows leading out to a balcony that provided a tableau of the pristine beach and the blue-green Aruba waters.

Minimalist, modern, and outfitted in neutral hues, my King guest room housed a TV, comfy couch, Nespresso machine, and mini-fridge. Along one wall are built-in dressers and wardrobes, spacious enough for me to comfortably unpack and make myself at home over the next few days. The bathroom was equipped with a shower, standard deluxe bath amenities, an LED vanity mirror, and aloe soap (a nod to the island’s biggest export) from Aruba Aloe, the oldest aloe company in the world. Other room amenities included bathrobes and the comfiest slippers I’ve ever worn.

One notable update that came with the resort’s 35th anniversary updates was a refreshed Governor’s Suite on the ninth floor. For those wanting more space, the one-bedroom suite is equipped with a kitchenette, dining area, and two bathrooms — including one with a free-standing bathtub. Notably, the 2,745-square-foot suite features three balconies that wrap around the living, kitchen, and dining areas, providing picture-perfect panoramic views.

Swim, spa, mixology, and more: Amenities and activities at Hyatt Regency Aruba

Photos: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino

After a short rest, I headed down to the water. In front of the resort on Palm Beach is a mix of palapas and beach umbrellas. Much like Aruba’s other beaches — with the exception of Renaissance and De Palm Islands — Palm Beach is open to the public, not just guests. Each morning when I looked out my window, I saw beachgoers heading to the beach early to claim a spot for the day.

Besides the beach, the resort has adults-only and family pools, the latter complete with a waterslide. There are various events hosted at the family pool throughout the week, such as bingo, waterslide races, shuffleboard contests, and scavenger hunts. The resort also has many programs to keep kids entertained, such as Camp Watapana and a wildlife tour, giving guests a chance to learn more about the animals that call the resort home.

Reservations for both pools open up to four months in advance. Whether you’re on the beach or by the pool, make sure you secure your towels and belongings. As a first-time visitor to Aruba, I was surprised at how windy it is. The constant breeze provides a nice reprieve from the heat, but make sure to keep your items in place so they don’t fly away.

Other amenities include a 5,290-square-foot ballroom that can be configured for a variety of events, from weddings to conferences, and a spa located on the first floor around the corner from the reception. I visited the ZoiA Spa on my second day, and I felt my stress melt away as my masseuse worked out the knots in my shoulders with Pink Himalayan salt stones. Guests can use the spa’s steam room before or after their treatments, as well.

Also located on the first floor is the resort’s 11,200-square-foot casino that’s open daily from 10 AM to 2 AM. For those who want to sneak in some exercise, there’s a fitness center below the spa, as well as tennis and pickleball courts. I started my first full day at the resort with morning yoga on the lawn. Other classes include energy healing, aerial yoga, and Pilates fusion. For those who want to try something new, there are also classes for mixology, cooking, painting, and aloe scrub-making. I opted to make a scrub and, at the end of it, was pleased to have a custom souvenir to take home.

For more goodies to take home, there’s plenty of shopping on site, too, including Little Europe Jewels & Time, Aruba Aloe, and a weekly community market on Fridays showcasing local artisans. Magnets are my souvenir of choice, so I picked up a few handmade ones at the market.

Seafood, steak, and smoothies: Dining at Hyatt Regency Aruba

Photos: Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino

Dinner on my first night was at Ruinas del Mar — one of the resort’s three full-service restaurants, excluding bars and casual spots — which serves up seafood and pasta dishes. Located in the middle of the resort, the restaurant pays homage to the island’s history with the exterior designed to resemble the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, an abandoned 19th-century gold mill site that’s located on the opposite side of the northern end of the island from the resort.

I was seated right by the pond, and a look to my left gave me a view of happy koi fish swimming about busily. My eyes were then drawn up to the sky as my dinner coincided with the sunset. A dusky rose canopy provided the backdrop to my first dinner in Aruba. I started with a lobster bisque, which came with generous chunks of lobster and was topped with a drizzle of pesto. For the main course, I went with my server’s recommendation of the linguini frutti di mare, pasta with massive shrimps, octopus, scallops, and squid mixed together in a pomodoro sauce. I returned to Ruinas del Mar once more during my stay and also tried the miso-glazed Chilean sea bass, which usurped the pasta as my favorite dish of the trip. Unfortunately, on both nights, the pear and pistachio dessert I wanted to try was sold out, so I opted for a delightfully refreshing pina colada panna cotta that did not disappoint.

Other dinner choices consist of Piccolo, the resort’s steakhouse set to open in May; Piet’s Pier, one of Aruba’s few over-the-water bars; and, of course, room service, which features some dishes from Ruinas del Mar. Palms Beachside Grill serves up classic breakfast and lunch fare — you can order a la carte or enjoy the impressive buffet, including omelet and crepe bars.

For grab-and-go options, you can’t go wrong with Shoco Market, dishing out classics like pizzas, sandwiches, and soft serve. I stopped by nearly every day for a gelato pop as an afternoon pick-me-up. Right beside Palms Beachside Grill, you’ll find Kadushi Juice bar, whipping up smoothies, juices, and other light bites. The most popular items on the menu are the acai bowls (go early to snag one as they sell out quickly).

Bar options range from the beachfront Palms Beach Bar and swim-up Balashi Bar and Grill to Alfresco Bar, located up the stairs from Ruinas del Mar. Tuesday through Sunday, there’s live music at Alfresco Bar from 6 to 10 PM. The bar doesn’t take reservations, but the prime time to go is during happy hour to enjoy the trifecta of tasty bites, live melodies, and spectacular sunset views.

Guests who book the Regency Club Access package can also enjoy the Regency Club Lounge, which comes with amenities like daily breakfast, midday snacks, and evening hors d’oeuvres, along with concierge services.

Adventures on and off the water: Things to do in Aruba

Photo: Steve Photography/Shutterstock

Aruba is a fairly small island. You can get from the resort to the popular Eagle Beach in under 10 minutes by car. Transportation on the island includes public transit, as well as bike and scooter rentals, but the most common way visitors get around is by taking a taxi.

Getting to downtown Oranjestad from the resort takes 15 minutes and costs about $15 (US dollars are widely accepted on the island). You can shop for souvenirs and view the Dutch-influenced architecture downtown. There’s a free streetcar that runs every 10-25 minutes, stopping at some of the major attractions along the way, such as Main Street and the House of Parliament. Aim to go on a weekday, as many businesses are closed on the weekend (mostly Sundays).

For off-property adventures, the resort partners with Red Sail Sports, an adventure and water sports company offering a range of activities such as sailing tours, scuba diving, and snorkeling. Visit the designated table in the lobby to book an activity.

For my penultimate day, I opted instead for a horseback riding tour with The Gold Mine Ranch. Transportation to and from the ranch is included, and experienced guides accompany the group the entire way. It was my first time horseback riding, and I was a bit nervous, but my horse Picasso put me at ease as he steadily trotted along the shoreline and through the desert. The tour was a great way to see more of the island as we stopped by sights such as the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Shark Bay, and Budui Beach.

Getting to Hyatt Regency Aruba

When visiting Aruba, you fly into Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), located south of downtown Oranjestad. From there, Hyatt Regency Aruba is about 15 to 20 minutes away. When departing Aruba, make sure to give yourself plenty of time at the airport, as there are four checkpoints when heading to the US.

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