Taking part in adventures while traveling to destinations around the world is a great way to ignite or reignite the spark in any relationship. Are you the type of couple enticed by the idea of a more active getaway that includes some heart-pounding thrills along with opportunities for romance? These are some of the top spots to consider from the Americas and Europe to New Zealand and beyond.
South Island, New Zealand
New Zealand is a haven for adventure, and while both islands offer a range of experiences, the South Island is the birthplace of bungy jumping. This island is renowned for its high-octane activities, rugged landscapes, stunning coastlines, glittering glaciers, and majestic mountain peaks. Queenstown is the perfect base for thrill-seekers, being the site of the world’s first commercial bungy jump. The town is also famous for the Shotover jet boat ride, where you’ll race through narrow canyons, and the Shotover Canyon Swing, which features the highest cliff jump in the world. Don’t miss the chance to hike in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park, home to Mount Cook, New Zealand’s tallest peak. The Hooker Valley trek takes you across suspension bridges to a glacier lake at the mountain’s base, and the stargazing here is spectacular, making for a memorable end to your adventurous day.
Crete, Greece
Crete, the largest island in Greece, boasts a diverse landscape that ranges from rugged canyons and towering mountains to idyllic white sandy beaches. Rich in history, the island features archaeological treasures such as the Knossos Palace, dating back to around 1700 BC. For outdoor enthusiasts, Crete offers a wealth of activities, including hiking the breathtaking Samaria Gorge trail. The island also provides excellent opportunities for mountain biking, horseback riding, snorkeling, parasailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing. After a day of adventure, indulge in delicious Cretan cuisine paired with a glass of exquisite local wine.
Argentina
Spanning nearly 1.1 million square miles, Argentina offers a vast and varied landscape, from lush jungles and stunning waterfalls to soaring mountains, pristine beaches, and arid deserts. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a wide range of adventures, including hiking, horseback riding, kayaking, rafting, and skiing in the picturesque Lake District, with the alpine town of Bariloche serving as an ideal base. After exploring, savor the town’s Swiss-like charm and its renowned food scene, particularly its delicious chocolate. For a closer encounter with glaciers, visit El Calafate near the Southern Patagonia Ice Field, where you can paddle on lakes and witness the dramatic calving of icebergs. If you’re interested in whale and penguin watching, Puerto Madryn near Patagonia’s Valdes Peninsula is the perfect destination.
Iceland
Iceland provides the perfect blend of adventure and romance, with its breathtaking landscapes featuring volcanic mountains, numerous waterfalls, fjords, icebergs, majestic glaciers, and geothermal wonders like geysers, black sand beaches, and hot springs. The island offers countless romantic experiences, from soaking in naturally warm geothermal waters while stargazing to witnessing the mesmerizing northern lights. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy a variety of activities year-round, including glacier hikes, 4X4 tours, snorkeling between continents, ice caving, and riding Icelandic horses through snowy terrain.
Kauai
Kauai is famous for its stunning beaches, including several secluded spots perfect for romantic getaways, and it is adorned with around 10,000 waterfalls and vibrant gardens, earning it the nickname “Garden Isle.” The island offers a wealth of adventure opportunities, such as hiking the Na Pali Coast, accessible only by foot, boat, or air. This 17-mile stretch features emerald pinnacles and cascading waterfalls that drop into narrow valleys. Additionally, Kauai provides a variety of other activities, including horseback riding, ziplining, mountain biking, river kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, and surfing.
Morocco
With its captivating landscapes and rich culture, Morocco is a perfect setting for romance and adventure. Experience the magic of a camel trek through the vast Sahara Desert, ride across golden dunes, and witness breathtaking sunsets before spending a night in a traditional Berber camp, where you can marvel at the stars in the clear desert sky. On the coast, Essaouira offers exhilarating seaside activities like windsurfing and kitesurfing. Don’t miss strolling through Chefchaouen, known for its enchanting blue architecture nestled in the northwest hills, with buildings painted in shades from baby blue to aquamarine. And for a truly memorable experience, enjoy a romantic dinner at Rick’s Cafe in Casablanca, inspired by the iconic café from the classic 1942 film.
Turkey
Istanbul dazzles with its vibrant Grand Bazaar and stunning mosques, but venture beyond the city and you’ll find a wealth of outdoor adventures in regions like Cappadocia. This area is celebrated for its otherworldly desert landscapes, featuring surreal fairy chimneys and ancient underground cities. Enjoy a breathtaking sunrise hot-air balloon ride for a bird’s-eye view, followed by a hike through the “Valley of Love” (Asiklar Vadisi) for an up-close experience. Cap off your adventure with a stay in one of the luxurious cave hotels. On the southwest coast, the resort town of Ölüdeniz is renowned for its beautiful blue lagoon and white sandy beach, and it offers tandem paragliding for a spectacular aerial view of the scenery.
Finnish Lapland
Few places can rival the romance of Finnish Lapland, where you can stay in a private glass igloo and cozy up together under a stunning star-filled sky, with the chance to witness the mesmerizing aurora borealis. This expansive subarctic region offers a range of unique adventures, including dog sledding and reindeer sleigh rides, where you can search for the northern lights and visit a Sami camp. There, you can savor a traditional Sami meal and immerse yourself in the local culture. Additional activities include ice fishing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling, ensuring a truly unforgettable experience.
Atacama Desert, Chile
The Atacama Desert, one of the driest places on Earth, offers some of the clearest skies for stargazing. Its otherworldly landscapes include Calle de la Luna, or the “Valley of the Moon,” known for its moon-like rock formations and towering sand dunes. The region is also home to striking azure lagoons that attract diverse wildlife, including Chilean flamingos. Adventure seekers can enjoy a range of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, sand surfing, and floating in lagoons with breathtaking views of distant volcanoes and snow-capped mountains.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica offers the perfect setting for a romantic tropical adventure with its stunning beaches, renowned surfing spots, and serene snorkeling opportunities in crystal-clear blue waters. The Arenal Volcano provides excellent hiking and mountain biking trails, where you can spot colorful parrots, toucans, and tanagers. After your adventures, relax in natural hot springs. In Guanacaste Province, explore lush rainforests, vibrant blue lagoons, and waterfalls that cascade into peaceful pools for refreshing swims. For an exceptional diving experience, visit UNESCO-listed Cocos Island National Park, where you can encounter large pelagic species such as dolphins, rays, and hammerhead sharks.
