Choose from 5,104 Fun Things to Do in Kelowna & Okanagan Valley
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Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Rincon de La Vieja National Park is one of the country’s most diverse ecological areas. Surrounding two volcanoes, Rincon (active) and Santa Maria (dormant), the park is also home to an extraordinary display of local flora and fauna, while being a part of the Area de Conservacion Guanacaste World Heritage site.
While the plant life is impressive on its own, especially considering the enormous concentration of purple orchids here, it’s the concentration of volcanoes that really wows visitors. The Rincon de La Vieja volcano gave rise to the park’s name and contains nine separate but contiguous craters. It is one of the largest of the five volcanoes in the Guanacaste region and is believed to be over a million years old. Despite being considered active, it has not erupted since the early 1980s.
The park does see a lot of volcanic activity, including vents, fumaroles and boiling mud pots and has at least 32 rivers that flow down its sides. There are a number of nature trails for guests, with some reserved for very experienced hikers. The most popular is the 2.5-mile La Pailas trail, which takes about two to three hours and is great for spotting wildlife, flora, waterfalls and traces of volcanic activity. More ambitious hikers can spend eight hours hiking to the Santa Maria crater's summit, from where you can see Lake Nicaragua on a clear day.
Practical Info
Rincon de La Vieja National Park is open year-round and is closed on Mondays. Dry season, which typically falls between December and April, is the recommended time to visit, as the trails are dry and it’s easiest to spot wildlife gathering at water sources. Easter (Holy Week) and Christmas are peak times for locals to visit and the park may be very crowded. Be sure to bring swimwear and shoes appropriate for loose gravel and rugged terrain. Hikers are only allowed to complete one hiking trail at a time and must check in with the ranger station to avoid initiating a search.
Address: Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste, Costa Rica
Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 7 a.m.-3 p.m.
Admission: $10/person
From $ 92

Rizal Park and Shrine
Situated next to the walled city of Intramuros, historical Rizal Park is one of the largest urban parks in Asia and covers 140 acres (58 hectares). With lawns, gardens, walkways, ponds, museums, an observatory, a concert hall, and more, it’s one of the most popular attractions in Manila for locals and visitors alike.
The Basics
Also known as Luneta Park, Rizal Park is named after 19th-century Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, who was executed by the Spanish colonial government at this spot. There is a shrine to Dr. Rizal, along with a statue to Lapu Lapu (Statue of the Sentinel of Freedom), who stopped Magellan’s invasion in 1521, and a Gallery of Heroes, dedicated to other key Filipino heroes throughout history. Other highlights of the park include the tallest flagpole in the country, the kilometer zero marker, an orchidarium, and a giant relief map of the Philippine islands on a man-made lake.
Nearly every sightseeing tour stops at Rizal Park, along with other top Manila attractions such as Casa Manila and Fort Santiago. To experience Manila like a local, visit as part of a jeepney tour. Book a private tour to combine Casa Manila with other must-see attractions on your list.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Rizal Park is free to visit, but some of the attractions inside the park, such as the Children’s Playground and the Chinese Garden, charge an admission fee.
- Stop by the Visitor Center at the Kalaw Avenue entrance to pick up a map of the park as well as information on upcoming events and concerts.
- Rizal Park is a great venue to bring the whole family.
How to Get There
Rizal Park is located next to Intramuros. It’s easiest to take a taxi or jeepney directly to Rizal Park, but you can also take the train to the United Nations station and walk a few minutes to the park.
When to Get There
It’s pleasant to visit Rizal Park year-round. The park is a favorite leisure spot that’s at its liveliest on weekends and public holidays. The open-air auditorium features rock concerts on Saturday nights and classical concerts on Sunday nights, and other events are held here periodically.
Tributes to Dr. Rizal
The Rizal Shrine is one of the most famous and photographed monuments in the Philippines. The 41-foot-tall (12.6-meter-tall) monument featuring a statue of Dr. Rizal and housing his remains is 100 meters from the exact location where he was executed, on December 30, 1896. Larger-than-life-size statues and bas-reliefs depict key moments in his life, including his final moments (The Martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal). There is an entrance fee to this site, which includes a tour during the day and a presentation at night in Tagalog and English.
Address: Philippines
From $ 76

Rinca Island
Located just off the western tip of Flores in Indonesia, Rinca Island offers some of the best and most unique wildlife viewing opportunities in the world. It’s one of the few spots on Earth where you can see Komodo dragons in the wild (and it’s often overlooked in lieu of neighboring Komodo Island), and the convergence of nutrient-rich currents in the waters just off the coast create conditions for some of the best diving in the world.
The Komodo dragon, the island’s most popular resident, can weigh in at over 300 pounds (136 kilograms), and they’re easier to spot in the wild on Rinca, as tourism has had less of an impact than on Komodo Island.
The 76-square-mile (198-square-kilometer) island sits within Komodo National Park, and as such, visitors to the island must be accompanied by a guide, as the large lizards can be dangerous—and even deadly—when they (rarely) attack.
Practical Info
Rinca Island is extremely hot throughout the year, so always bring more sunscreen and water than you think you’ll need. April to November is the best period for seeing Komodo dragons in the wild.
Address: East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia
From $ 235

Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982, the Río Plátano Biosphere Reserve protects one of the last areas of tropical rainforest in Central America — 1.3 million acres (525,000 hectares) in total. The mountainous landscape along the Río Plátano watershed is home to some 400 species of birds, 40 mammals and 120 reptiles and amphibians, a number of which are threatened or endangered.
Travelers hiking the reserve’s mountain trails or rafting along the Río Plátano or Río Seco might spot colorful harpy eagles, colorful macaws, howler monkeys, sloths and maybe even a puma or jaguar crouched in the undergrowth.
Besides its natural attractions, the biosphere reserve is also home to a population of about 2,000 indigenous Pech and Miskito residents who have largely preserved their traditional way of life.
Practical Info
Most transport within the reserve is by boat. June through September is the rainy season in the area, which can complicate travel.
Address: La Mosquitía, Honduras
Admission: Donation
From $ 38

Rio Frio Cave
There’s something ominous and strangely scintillating about approaching the mouth of a cave, where you don’t know exactly what lies within—but for some reason are tempted to explore. At the Rio Frio cave in Belize, the massive, 65 ft. entranceway is as alluring and enticing a cave entrance you’ll find in any jungle. Though the cave is only half a mile long and light filters in from both ends, the mouth of the cave is the largest in Belize and makes for a grandiose entrance. A small river flowing through the cave has created very small beaches, and travelers who visit in drier months can have a picnic or simply relax on a beach inside of a cave. Though the surrounding cliffs are made of limestone, the climbing and rock scrambling surrounding the cave are additional, adventurous draws, as is the network of muddy trails that disappear into the forest. Unlike some of the other caves that are found in western Belize, access is via a three-minute walk from a large, accessible parking lot. This is a popular stop between San Ignacio and the Mayan ruins at Caracol, and a scenic, silent—and somewhat scary—place for stretching your legs.
Practical Info
Rio Frio Cave is in Cayo District in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. It’s a popular stop of many tour companies on the way to the Caracol ruins, and despite the fact it’s an enormous cave, there’s little need to pack a flashlight since sun filters in from both ends. Ideally situated at a halfway point, the cave is located about an hour from San Ignacio and an hour from the Caracol ruins.
Address: Cayo, Belize
From $ 100

Roatan Cruise Port
Palm-fringed, white-sand beaches stretch for 40 miles (64 kilometers) along the coast of Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands. Roatan is located 30 miles (48 kilometers) off the coast of Honduras and is surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea. The island’s economy is based primarily on tourism and Roatan is dotted with small towns, resorts and gated communities. The Bay Islands are located along part of the world’s second-largest barrier reef system and Roatan is one of the top scuba diving destinations in the Caribbean.
How to Get to Roatan
Roatan’s cruise port is located on the south side of the island just outside Coxen Hole, the capital and largest city on the Bay Islands. You’ll find a variety of shopping and dining options within the cruise port complex, although there aren’t many attractions for visitors in Coxen Hole. Taxis and minibuses wait just outside the cruise port to shuttle visitors into town and around the island.
One Day in Roatan
Many of the best beaches and attractions in Roatan are located on the west end of the island and arguably the best way to visit these attractions is on shore excursions. West Bay Beach and Half Moon Bay are two of the most popular destinations for visitors to Roatan and offer excellent diving and snorkeling, as well as sport fishing and a variety of watersports including sea kayaking and sailing.
Experienced divers can visit some of the more secluded dive spots along the island’s central coast including the Valley of the Kings, French Cay Bank and Mary’s Place. Families will enjoy visits to the island’s iguana farm, the botanical gardens in Sandy Bay and the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences.
Port Information
Spanish is the official language in Honduras, although you’ll find that many people in Roatan speak English. The official currency is the lempira and it’s fixed to the U.S. dollar. U.S. dollars are widely accepted all over the island but you’ll often receive change in the local currency. It’s a good idea to carry small bills and change for things like taxi rides and tips.
How to Get to Roatan
Roatan’s cruise port is located on the south side of the island just outside Coxen Hole, the capital and largest city on the Bay Islands. You’ll find a variety of shopping and dining options within the cruise port complex, although there aren’t many attractions for visitors in Coxen Hole. Taxis and minibuses wait just outside the cruise port to shuttle visitors into town and around the island.
One Day in Roatan
Many of the best beaches and attractions in Roatan are located on the west end of the island and arguably the best way to visit these attractions is on shore excursions. West Bay Beach and Half Moon Bay are two of the most popular destinations for visitors to Roatan and offer excellent diving and snorkeling, as well as sport fishing and a variety of watersports including sea kayaking and sailing.
Experienced divers can visit some of the more secluded dive spots along the island’s central coast including the Valley of the Kings, French Cay Bank and Mary’s Place. Families will enjoy visits to the island’s iguana farm, the botanical gardens in Sandy Bay and the Roatan Institute for Marine Sciences.
Port Information
Spanish is the official language in Honduras, although you’ll find that many people in Roatan speak English. The official currency is the lempira and it’s fixed to the U.S. dollar. U.S. dollars are widely accepted all over the island but you’ll often receive change in the local currency. It’s a good idea to carry small bills and change for things like taxi rides and tips.
Address: Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras, Honduras
From $ 50

Road to the Isles
Dotted with small Scottish towns and with no shortage of scenery, the aptly named “Road to the Isles” is one of Scotland’s most beautiful drives and provides the base for exploring the Small Isles and Skye. Stretching from the base of the UK’s tallest mountain to a port town on the sea, both coastal and mountainous scenery abound. The unspoiled landscapes through the Highlands of Scotland have been the site of many film and television scenes — perhaps most famously in the Harry Potter films.
There are many stops to enjoy along the way, progressing from mountain towns, lochs (or lakes) and glens to isles, inlets, and white sand beaches. Of particular note is Neptune’s Staircase, a series of eight lochs with views of the mountain Ben Nevis, and Glenfinnan, home to the historic monument where Bonnie Prince Charlie once raised his Highland army.
Practical Info
The Road to the Isles is located on the western coast of North Scotland, on the A830 road from Fort William to Mallaig. At roughly 46 miles long, it takes just over an hour to drive with no stops (though you will want to stop.) There is also a Jacobite train journey during the summer months that runs to Mallaig. From there you can catch a ferry to the Isle of Skye.
Address: Highland PH33, Scotland, UK, Scotland
From $ 56

Rio da Prata
Located within a sprawling fazenda (ranch) 32 miles (51 kilometers) outside of Bonito, the Recanto Ecológico Rio da Prata offers prime snorkeling in Brazil. Travelers float down crystalline rivers while observing some 50 species of tropical fish, including giant dourados and large schools of pacus. Along the shores, exotic birds, tapirs, monkeys, and other animals can be spotted among the trees.
The Basics
A snorkeling tour along the Rio da Prata begins with a 50-minute hike along a forested trail to the entry point on the Olho d’Agua River. The snorkeling portion starts with a 30-minute float through these emerald-green waters to where the Olho d’Agua meets the Prata. From there, snorkelers continue on for another 20 minutes. Snorkeling equipment and roundtrip transportation are included in most tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This river is a must-see for nature lovers and adventure travelers.
- Tours to the park must be booked in advance.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes suitable for walking over a variety of surfaces.
- Waterproof cameras are available to rent in the Rio da Prata visitor center.
- The use of sunscreen and insect repellent is not allowed to protect the purity of the water.
How to Get There
Most snorkeling tours to the Rio da Prata include pickup and drop-off at Bonito hotels.
When to Get There
The Rio da Prata is open daily, including holidays. With some of the warmest water in the region, the river is comfortable for snorkeling no matter the time of year.
Other Activities at the Rio da Prata
Besides snorkeling, the Rio da Prata ecological reserve also offers scuba diving for beginner to advanced divers (including technical cave diving in the Mysterious Lagoon), horseback riding through the ranch, or birdwatching in the world’s most biodiverse savanna, where more than 200 species have been registered.
Address: Rod BR 267 Km 515, Caixa Postal 201, Jardim, Brazil
Hours: Daily 7:30am–5:30pm
Admission: Varies
From $ 70

Rio Bueno
Rio Bueno is a small village located 32 miles (51.5 kilometers) east of Montego Bay on the island of Jamaica. The Rio Bueno Harbour is the deepest harbor in Jamaica and the site where Columbus is believed to have first touched land in Jamaica. Visitors to Jamaica flock to this small fishing community to experience one of the most exhilarating excursions on the island: adventures along the Rio Bueno River. The river is situated in a beautiful tropical setting and movie buffs may recognize it as the location of the classic 1964 film, A High Wind in Jamaica, starring Anthony Quinn and James Coburn.
Visitors to the village of Rio Bueno can tour the ruins of a fort that dates to the 18th century and several historic buildings and churches that overlook the Caribbean Sea. The main attraction in Rio Bueno, however, is the Rio Bueno River, a favorite destination for kayaking, rafting, tubing and river boarding. The swift currents of the river make for an adrenaline-pumping adventure that’s exciting yet tame enough to bring the entire family. Cool off with a refreshing dip in the pools, relax on the river bank and admire the spectacular jungle scenery and natural beauty of the region.
The Rio Bueno River eventually spills out into the Caribbean Sea where visitors can spend the afternoon sunbathing on the beach and swimming in the warm waters of Bengal Bay in Jamaica. Rio Bueno can be easily reached from Montego Bay, Falmouth and Ocho Rios. Taxis are readily available, and another great way to see the region is on shore excursions. Rio Bueno can be visited year-round, though the winter months are generally the most popular and crowded time to visit the island of Jamaica. Visitors looking to escape the crowds should head for the nearby resort at Runaway Bay.
Visitors to the village of Rio Bueno can tour the ruins of a fort that dates to the 18th century and several historic buildings and churches that overlook the Caribbean Sea. The main attraction in Rio Bueno, however, is the Rio Bueno River, a favorite destination for kayaking, rafting, tubing and river boarding. The swift currents of the river make for an adrenaline-pumping adventure that’s exciting yet tame enough to bring the entire family. Cool off with a refreshing dip in the pools, relax on the river bank and admire the spectacular jungle scenery and natural beauty of the region.
The Rio Bueno River eventually spills out into the Caribbean Sea where visitors can spend the afternoon sunbathing on the beach and swimming in the warm waters of Bengal Bay in Jamaica. Rio Bueno can be easily reached from Montego Bay, Falmouth and Ocho Rios. Taxis are readily available, and another great way to see the region is on shore excursions. Rio Bueno can be visited year-round, though the winter months are generally the most popular and crowded time to visit the island of Jamaica. Visitors looking to escape the crowds should head for the nearby resort at Runaway Bay.
Address: Rio Bueno, Jamaica
From $ 70

Ringstrasse
Marking the boundary of the First District, where the old city walls once stood, the series of boulevards that make up the Ringstrasse trace a 5km scenic loop around the historic center of Vienna. Created in the late 19th century to replace the fortification walls demolished under Emperor Franz Joseph, the Ringstrasse was designed to accommodate some of the city’s most spectacular works of architecture.
For visitors to Vienna, following the route of the Ringstrasse is a popular way to take in the sights, starting with the dramatic neo-Gothic Rathaus, or City Hall, set in the landscaped Rathauspark and the neighboring Parliament buildings. The magnificent Burgtheater and Volksgarten park stand opposite, and heading south, the ring road passes Maria Theresa Square and Franz Joseph’s elaborate Kaiserforum, now home to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) and the Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Natural History). The modern Museum Quarter, the Karlskirche and the world-renowned Vienna State Opera House also make popular stops.
For visitors to Vienna, following the route of the Ringstrasse is a popular way to take in the sights, starting with the dramatic neo-Gothic Rathaus, or City Hall, set in the landscaped Rathauspark and the neighboring Parliament buildings. The magnificent Burgtheater and Volksgarten park stand opposite, and heading south, the ring road passes Maria Theresa Square and Franz Joseph’s elaborate Kaiserforum, now home to the Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts) and the Naturhistorisches Museum (Museum of Natural History). The modern Museum Quarter, the Karlskirche and the world-renowned Vienna State Opera House also make popular stops.
Address: Ringstrasse, Vienna, Austria
From $ 36

River Dee
Winding its way through Wales and England for approximately 70 miles (110 km), the River Dee might not be one of the UK’s longest rivers, but it’s certainly among the most scenic. Flowing from the mountains of Snowdonia, tracing the natural border of Wales and England, and finally joining the sea along the Wirral Peninsula, the river passes natural landmarks like Bala Lake, beautiful promenades like The Groves in Chester and wildlife havens like the Dee Estuary.
The easiest way to explore the River Dee is on a boat tour from Chester, where it’s possible to cruise around the Eaton Estate, home of the Duke and Duchess of Westminster, as well as passing through the Meadows wetlands and the Earl’s Eye conservation area. Alternatively, thrill-seekers can head to Llangollen in Wales, where the rocky riverbeds, rapids and waterfalls offer opportunities for white water rafting.
Practical Info
The River Dee runs from Snowdonia in Wales to the Wirral Peninsula, passing towns such as Llangollen in Wales and Chester in England.
Address: North West England, England
From $ 65

Rio Grande
The Rio Grande is a massive river in eastern Jamaica that curves through the lush rainforests of the island. The river is fed by tropical rainwater, much of which flows down to the river from the top of the Blue Mountains. Journeying down the river provides views various shades of green dotting the mountainside and springing up from the Rio Grande river valley. You’ll see a variety of flora and fauna, including banana groves.
Locals still use the river to transport food – especially bananas – and supplies via bamboo rafts. Visitors can also experience this way of life on a raft excursion along the Rio Grande. The bamboo rafts are thin and narrow, but surprisingly buoyant. You’ll board the raft and sit on the back of it. Up front, a skilled raft captain will stand at the bow of the raft and guide you down the Rio Grande with powerful strides from a long paddle.
Practical Info
If you’re interested in visiting the Rio Grande, first make your way to Port Antonia, the seaside capital city of the Portland Parish area of Jamaica. From there, you can drive to the river or take an excursion that will transport you to the river for a raft ride.
Address: Port Antonia, Jamaica
From $ 129

Rio Formoso Ecological Park (Parque Ecologico Rio Formoso)
Located only 7.5 miles (12 km) from Bonito, this nature reserve along the shores of the Rio Formoso offers myriad activities. Adventurers can embark on horseback and hiking expeditions that weave through the green canopy forests of the Cerrado ecosystem, while the aquatically inclined can take to the transparent blue waters of the Rio Formoso outfitted in snorkeling or diving gear to glide past schools of fish and subaquatic plants. For an adrenaline rush, jump into a raft for a 90-minute descent along the river’s rapids. This thrilling ride ends at the Ilha do Padre, an island outfitted with a restaurant, bar, and plenty of inviting hammocks.
Practical Info
The Parque Ecológico Rio Formoso can be reached by following the Estrada para Ilha do Padre for 7.5 miles (12 km). Tours must be booked in advance.
Address: Rio Formoso Ecological Park, Bonito, Brazil
From $ 40

River Avon
Winding its way through the Warwickshire countryside in England’s West Midlands, the River Avon is perhaps best known for its namesake town, Stratford-upon-Avon, famously the birthplace of William Shakespeare. The scenic river passes through the heart of the medieval town and boat tours offer a new perspective for visitors, passing waterfront landmarks like the
Royal Shakespeare Theatre, the Swan Theatre, Holy Trinity Church and Lucy’s Mill Wier.
As well as being the lifeblood of Stratford-Upon-Avon, the River Avon is well connected to England’s waterways, joining the River Severn at Tewkesbury and linked via the Stratford-Upon-Avon canal to Birmingham.
Practical Info
The River Avon runs for 85 miles (137 km) from Naseby in Northamptonshire to join the River Severn at Tewkesbury.
Address: England
From $ 28

River Safari
Singapore’s River Safari, the world's first river-themed wildlife park, introduces visitors to its 5,000 animal inhabitants. The 30-acre (12-hectare) park presents the world of freshwater aquatic animals to guests with a series of walkthrough exhibits inspired by eight iconic rivers, the Mississippi, Nile, Amazon, Congo, Ganges, Mekong, and Yangtze.
Of the animals on display, representing some 300 species, the giant river otter and giant salamander stand out as rare highlights, but not all animals here are aquatic—you'll also find an ever-popular pair of giant pandas, as well as the Wild Amazonia area's squirrel monkeys, jaguars, giant anteaters, and Brazilian tapirs.
Of the animals on display, representing some 300 species, the giant river otter and giant salamander stand out as rare highlights, but not all animals here are aquatic—you'll also find an ever-popular pair of giant pandas, as well as the Wild Amazonia area's squirrel monkeys, jaguars, giant anteaters, and Brazilian tapirs.
Address: 80 Mandai Lake Road, 729826, Singapore
Hours: Open Daily: 9am - 6pm. Last ticket sale at 5pm.
Admission: Adult: $25, Child (3-12): $16, Senior: $12.50
From $ 28

Ring of Brodgar
Among the tall green grass and purple heather between Loch Harray and Stenness, the Ring of Brodgar standing stones thrust from the earth like rusting giants’ swords.
At 340 feet (104 meters) in diameter, 27 of the original 60 stones survive, making this the third-biggest stone circle in Britain. Thought to have been built around 2000-2500 BC, this was one of the last of such monuments to be built in neolithic Orkney. Excavations of the site have revealed lots of pottery and animal bones, so it seems like cooking and eating around the still visible hearth was the order of the day here 5,000 years ago.
Famous for its perfectly circular shape, the beauty of the Ring of Brodgar is that, unlike Stonehenge, you can get right up to the stones. As you wander, look out for Viking graffiti on some of the stones: 12th-century runic carvings from the Norse invaders can be seen on quite a few. Just a few hundred meters away, you can also visit the neolithic Barnhouse settlement, discovered in 1984.
Practical Info
A five-mile drive northeast of Stromness on the B9055, entrance and parking is free, and you can visit 24 hours a day. In summer, there are Stagecoach buses from Kirkwall and Stromness to the standing stones. In summer, look out for free guided tours of Brodgar.
Address: Stromness, Orkney, Scotland
Hours: Daily
From $ 91

River Liffey
Flowing through the center of town and dividing Dublin in two, the River Liffey is the waterway around which the city first grew and developed, and it remains at the heart of city life. Originating in the Wicklow Mountains, the river flows through Wicklow, Kildare, and Dublin, before emptying into the Irish Sea at Dublin Bay.
The Basics
With many of Dublin’s top attractions situated on either the north or south bank of the river, visitors to Dublin are guaranteed to see the River Liffey. Most walking tours of the city pass over the river via the pedestrianized Ha’penny Bridge, moving between Temple Bar on the south side of the city and O’Connell Street on the north side. Hop-on hop-off tour buses and sightseeing buses also pass over the Liffey via O’Connell Bridge.
Of course, the best way to experience the River Liffey is to get out on the water. Choose from among leisurely river cruises, trips on amphibious vehicles, and kayaking excursions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Exploring the River Liffey and its immediate surrounds is a must for first-time visitors to Dublin.
- If you plan on swimming, know that the waters of the Liffey are cold year-round.
- Wheelchair-accessible boat cruises are offered, and many of the paths that run alongside the river’s edge are wheelchair and stroller accessible.
How to Get There
The River Liffey is accessible from many different parts of Dublin, but the most attraction-packed stretch flows through the city center. To get there, ride the Green Line Luas to the Westmoreland stop or the Red Line Luas to Abbey Street.
When to Get There
Kayaking excursions and cruises run on the Liffey year-round. The best time for riverside walks is early morning, before the commuting crowds arrive, or at dusk when you can watch the city light up. Open-water swimmers may want to attempt the Liffey Swim, a race that takes place annually in late August or early September.
Attractions Along the River Liffey
The Liffey is lined with some of Dublin’s most well-known attractions. Stroll east from O’Connell Bridge along the north side of the river and you’ll reach the Custom House, the Famine Memorial, and EPIC The Irish Emigration Museum. Temple Bar is on the south bank, where you’ll find Smock Alley Theatre, Christ Church Cathedral, and Dublinia.
Address: Dublin, Ireland
From $ 15

Rila Mountains
The Rila Mountains offer outdoor enthusiasts a perfect play land for exploring Bulgaria’s highest mountain. Nestled within the boundaries of National Park Rila, this area is home to the hottest spring in the Balkans, glacial lakes, four nature reserves and endless stretch of scenic landscape. Avid hikers will find easy access to two of Europe’s longest trail routes—the E4 and E8—which pass through some of the Rila Mountains’ 29 peaks. And hikers hoping for a shorter distance can participate in popular one-day excursions, like walks to the Seven Rila Lakes and Mount Musala, which both typically depart from Sofia.
Less intrepid travelers can still enjoy the beauty of this epic mountain range at one of the family-run hotels located in foothill villages like Govedartsi, Mala Tsarkva and Madzhare. Visitors can soak in the medicinal hot mineral waters of Sapareva Banya, a popular public bath, or venture to the Rila Monastery—not only the largest in the country, but also the most-visited site in the nation.
Practical Info
Public transportation to the mountains is available during the peak hiking season, but it typically requires at least one transfer to access trailheads. Snowshoeing in the mountains is a popular activity during winter months, but locals warn guides are almost essential due to the threat of avalanches.
Address: National Park Rila, Bulgaria
From $ 57

Rio Camuy Cave Park
Known for its soaring interiors, million-year-old stalactites and stalagmites, and namesake underground river, Rio Camuy Cave Park in Puerto Rico attracts nature lovers and casual visitors alike. The 268-acre (108-hectare) complex is most famous for its cave tour, but it also offers picnic pavilions, walking trails, and a playground.
The Basics
Three crater-like sinkholes and one cave are open to the public at Rio Camuy Cave, the third largest underground river cavern system in the world. These attractions are accessed via a trolley ride that whisks visitors to the cave entrance. Led by a park ranger with guided audio, the 90-minute cave tour offers insight into the geologic history and ecosystem of the area, while also stopping at a spot where you can hear the Camuy River roar past. The cave’s open ends allow in plenty of sunlight.
Rio Camuy Cave Park is easily accessible from San Juan on a day trip. Many travelers visit as part of an organized tour for the benefit of guided commentary and round-trip transportation. This trip is sometimes combined with a visit to the nearby Arecibo Observatory, where you can listen to the sounds of the universe from the world's largest radio telescope.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Park entrance is limited and often capped by 10am; ensure your entry by booking ahead.
- The cave has a cement walkway with handrails, but it is usually wet and slippery so be sure to wear closed-toe shoes with a good tread.
- On-site amenities include a restroom, gift shop, and cafeteria.
- Camping is permitted in summer.
- Dress in layers, as the cave can get chilly, and bring an extra shirt in case yours gets wet.
How to Get There
While a guided tour is the most stress-free way to visit the park, independent travelers can take a private car or taxi to access the site on their own. Fee-based parking is available. The park is roughly a 90-minute drive from San Juan, in the karst region of the north coast.
When to Get There
The park is open Wednesday through Sunday from 8am until 5pm, but note that parking closes strictly at 2:45pm, the last tickets are sold by 3pm, and the last tour is at 3:30pm. Entry to the popular site often capped by 10am, so it’s best to book in advance. The park sometimes closes during heavy rain due to potential flooding.
Address: Camuy, Puerto Rico
Hours: Wed - Sun 8am - 5pm
Admission: US$18
From $ 111

River Antoine Rum Distillery
The River Antoine Estate is home to the oldest rum distillery in Grenada, where the originaly owners began producing rum in 1785. Today's owners continue the tradition, serving as a huge part of the Grenadine culture and history and offering a glimpse into the production of one of the country’s most famous exports.
Visitors can learn about and witness the process of production, from the initial picking of the sugarcane plant, which is compressed by a water wheel and boiled, to the fermentation and distilling processes. The site's water wheel is actually the oldest in the whole of the Caribbean. Of course there are opportunities to sample and taste the famous finished product, which is completely organic.
River Antoine rum is made entirely from the sugarcane juice during Grenada’s dry season (January to May) and supplemented with molasses in the wet season (June to December). Two different strengths are produced here, one of which is illegal to bring on a plane home, as it contains more than 70 percent alcohol!
Practical Info
The River Antoine Rum Distillery is located on the northeast coast of Grenada island, about an hour away by car from St. George’s. Lake Antoine, which powers the water wheel, is nearby and is open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. A guided tour of the distillery costs EC $5 (East Caribbean dollars) and includes a sampling of rum.
Address: River Antoine, Grenada
Admission: EC $5
From $ 58