Planning your own action-packed vacation is easy— but what about an adrenaline-fueled escape for two? Well, that can be easy, too—when you know where to look. From high-desert rock climbs to upscale retreats on the other side of the world, here are three of the best vacations for couples ready to turn their precious downtime into an adventure worth toasting over dinner.
PARROT CAY, TURKS AND CAICOS - GO TRAIL HIKING ALONG THE BEACH
Set the tone at this remote 1,000-acre island—a mile-long beach dotted with secluded, ocean-side villas—with a relaxing Hobie Cat sail ($100 for two hours). From there, your active menu options are diverse, but be sure to first check out the complimentary windsurfing, kayaking, and snorkeling. There’s also running and hiking along miles of pristine coastline trails. Ocean views are the name of the game here, and you won’t find a better way to cap off the day than posting up with a cocktail on a private sunset cruise (from $375 per couple).
WHY SHE'LL LOVE IT: The intense hatha yoga sessions from a visiting master at the Como Shambhala Retreat, which combines asanas, breathing practice, and meditation.
WHERE TO FLY: Providenciales International Airport, Turks and Caicos Islands
THE BOULDERS, ARIZONA - FLY-FISH IN THE DESERT
The high-altitude Sonoran Desert serves as the backdrop for a 1,300-acre resort. We recommend a professionally guided climb up the face of the intermediate- level rock formations overlooking two lush golf courses ($195 for three hours). Of course, there’s a lot of terrain to explore. When the urge strikes, mount up on bikes, whether on the road or through the single-track mountain paths winding through wildflowers and saguaro cacti. And be sure to check out nearby Club Lake, where you can take advantage of flyfishing lessons from an Orvis-certified instructor ($175 per person for two hours).
WHY SHE'LL LOVE IT: The fresh bread, espresso, and panoramic views from the outdoor courtyard at Bakery Cafe. Also, the Spirit of the Southwest spa package ($715) offers five hours of serious pampering.
WHERE TO FLY: Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport
WHAREKAUHAU LODGE - REV YOUR ENGINES IN WINE COUNTRY
Wharekauhau Lodge, a 5,500-acre estate in the Wairarapa region, is a study in sumptuous living: elegant fireplaces, cathedral ceilings, and views of the placid Palliser Bay. But don’t get too comfortable— not when you can be motoring across the black sand beaches in an ATV ($175 per person) or sharpening your shooting skills at the clay-target shooting range ($95 per person per session). There’s also horseback riding along the coast ($130 per person per hour, two-person minimum); surfcasting in the bay ($55 per person per hour with guide, complimentary without); and archery lessons ($55 per hour).
WHY SHE'LL LOVE IT: Lots (and lots) of wine: The cellar is stocked with red vintages from the reputable Martinborough Vineyard, as well as whites from nearby Marlborough, the largest wineproducing region in the country.
WHERE TO FLY: Wellington International Airport