5 Exciting Vacations To Celebrate Great Outdoors Month

What initially began as Great Outdoors Week has evolved into Great Outdoors Month, a celebration of the outdoors, designated by the US Senate. And, while there are plenty of events and happenings across America this month that are worthy of participation—National Trails Day, National Get Outdoors Day, and the Great Outdoors Day of Service—June is also a delightful time to embrace nature and wild places across the globe.

Keep reading to learn about five exciting international destinations that are worthy of exploring. From beaches to desert retreats to mountainous landscapes, here are nature-heavy locales perfect for your next adventure.

Soak in an Outdoor Geothermal Pool: Iceland

The mostly treeless Nordic nation of Iceland is defined by its theatrical natural landscapes full of volcanoes, geysers, moss-covered hills, hot springs, and lava fields. A trip here is a feast for the senses. Learn about Viking history as you explore the country, being sure to spend plenty of time relaxing in geothermal pools.

The Blue Lagoon, located 50 minutes from downtown Reykjavik, is one of the most well-known and celebrated outdoor experiences where you can lather up in mud and treat your skin to a nourishing mineral treatment. Another option, located at Karsnes Harbour Kopavogur, right in the capital city, is the brand-new Sky Lagoon. Modern and sleek, the Icelandic seven-step bathing ritual is a getaway like no other. Float from the alfresco lagoon to the cold plunge to the sauna to the fog-mist space to the body scrub station to the steam room to the shower and then repeat it all over again to your heart’s content.

Travel to a Remote Island in the Indian Ocean: The Maldives

If you’re looking to really get away from it all, unplug, and have an adventure to usurp all others, look no further than the Maldives, a nation of nearly 1,200 islands situated along the equator in the Indian Ocean. Jewel-like islands, circled with reefs full of multi-hued fish and coral, set the scene for one of the most magnificent destinations on the planet. It’s here, at the world’s flattest country, where you’ll be welcomed by locals and treated to unique experiences that you can’t find anywhere else. Instagram-worthy wonders abound, including accommodations in an overwater bungalow where you can order a floating breakfast to your private pool and see fish swimming right below your wooden deck.

Do yourself a favor and carve out some time for a visit, staying at boutique properties within the Coco Collection. Celebrating traditional Maldivian architecture, design, and ambiance, Coco Bodu Hithi in North Male Atoll and Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu in Baa Atoll offer a respite that will connect you to nature in an authentic and memorable way. Get PADI certified onsite at the dive center with the resident dive ocean team and treat yourself to a world of underwater wonders. From spa experiences to inventive dining opportunities to thrills on the sea, this is the vacation you’ve been searching for.

Connect with Family, Welcoming the Sun, at an All-Inclusive Resort: Mexico

Bring your entire family, grandparents too, and spend a few days at Garza Blanca Resort & Spa Cancun. Located on one of the most beautiful white sand beaches, Playa Mujeres Beach, this Caribbean vacation is just what your family needs. Suites are fashioned with private balconies and hammock swings so even when you’re in the room you can open the doors and breathe the fresh sea air. Don’t forget the sunscreen and head outside for recreational activities like the floating aqua park, yoga, beach volleyball, salsa dance lessons, kayaking, swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, and more.

Ride Camels in the Sahara Desert: Morocco

Did you know that Morocco has an entire valley of roses, a large swath of the Sahara Desert, a ski resort in the Atlas Mountains, and the world’s oldest continually operating university? Bold travelers will love visiting this country on a Premium Morocco in Depth tour with Intrepid Travel, a seasoned travel company that has been leading indelible adventures for over three decades. The world’s largest travel B Corporation, Intrepid Travel utilizes travel as a force for good.

In Morocco, for 15 days, you’ll visit the Imperial cities of Fez, Marrakech, Meknes, and Rabat. Marrakech, home to Africa’s busiest square, is where you’ll find storytellers, magicians, shopkeepers, and orange juice stands. This small group tour also explores Chefchaouen, the magical Blue City; the tented camps of Amazigh (Berber) families; and Mollywood, or Ait Benhaddou, where many famous movies have been filmed (Lawrence of Arabia, Game of Thrones, Gladiator). You’ll have opportunities to hike in the Dades Valley, shop in the many medinas, and ride camels to a tented camp in the Sahara Desert. Your expert guide will facilitate all the details and exclusive experiences, including a picnic at the ruins of Volubilis, a partially excavated Berber-Roman city, and an immersive cooking class in Tahanaout with local chefs. If you’re looking for a sign to try something new, this is it.

Swim at the Base of a Waterfall: Grenada

Explore Spice Isle by land and sea. Grenada is an exciting destination for outdoor lovers. Teetering on the edge of the forest reserve, on the western side of the island, crashes Concord Waterfall where you can take a plunge and cool off. Stay at Mount Cinnamon Resort, a lovely lush retreat floating above Grand Anse Beach, and enjoy Creamsicle sunset hues, a honeysuckle-scented breeze, and warbling tropical birds. You’ll have easy access to all that the island has to offer, including snorkeling, hiking, and sailing adventures.