Les Andelys, a picturesque town on the banks of the Seine in Normandy, France, is best known for its dramatic setting beneath the ruins of Château Gaillard. This medieval fortress, built in the 12th century by Richard the Lionheart, stands high on a chalk cliff overlooking the river, a reminder of the region’s turbulent past during the wars between England and France.
Sigiriya, in central Sri Lanka, is an ancient rock fortress and one of the country’s most iconic archaeological sites. Rising nearly 200 meters from the surrounding plains, the massive granite column is crowned by the ruins of a royal palace built in the 5th century CE by King Kasyapa.
This beautiful holy city is a spiritual lightning rod and sacred to Jews, Muslims and Christians all over the world. Although Jerusalem is known primarily for its religious history, the city is also home to many artistic and cultural venues.
Beziers today is a dynamic city whose oldest houses are laid out in the elliptical pattern revealing the underlying Roman Amphitheatre, which is currently being excavated. The Beziers townspeople are passionate about rugby and the bullfights held in their modern arena.
Located in northern Oman, Nakhal is best known for its impressive fort set dramatically against the backdrop of the Hajar Mountains. Originally built centuries ago and later expanded, the fort showcases traditional Omani architecture and offers sweeping views of the surrounding palm groves and rugged landscapes.
Glenwood Springs, Colorado, is a picturesque resort town famous for its geothermal springs. Nestled in a scenic canyon of the Rocky Mountains where the Colorado and Roaring Fork Rivers meet, Glenwood Springs will enthrall you with its natural beauty, including towering red sandstone cliffs, snow-capped mountains, and lush forests.
Hot springs are a must-see attraction in Glenwood Springs. Admire stunning views of the Rockies as you take a dip in the massive hot springs pool at historic Glenwood Hot Springs Resort, built in 1888, or soak in one of the sixteen different mineral pools at Iron Mountain Hot Springs. Better yet, venture into the vapor caves at the Yampah Spa to relax in a natural sauna, heated by steam from the Yampah hot spring.
For adventurous travelers, take advantage of the many outdoor activities and sports that Glenwood Springs has to offer. Kayak or raft down the Colorado River through impressive Glenwood Canyon, or hike the mile-long trail to catch a glimpse of waterfalls at Hanging Lake, designated a Natural National Landmark. Make the trek to Sunlight Mountain for excellent skiing and snowmobiling. Take a gondola up Iron Mountain to reach Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park, where you can explore winding caves filled with mineral deposits or hop on thrilling alpine coasters.
With so much to see and do, Glenwood Springs is the perfect getaway!