Inspired by Nature
New private hiking and biking tours celebrate the power of America’s backyard.
The pull of the great outdoors has never been more compelling. In fact, spending time in nature is essential to our mind-body balance. During the pandemic, Exclusive Resorts noticed an uptick in Members craving fresh air and action. As a result, the 2021 Private Travel Collection was introduced with a focus on closer-to-home hiking and biking adventures. “We wanted to give Members more domestic options than ever before,” says Gina Bach, Vice President of Exclusive Resorts’ Experience Collection. “We’ve partnered with trusted operators, like Backroads and Canadian Mountain Holidays, to develop one-of-a-kind itineraries.” The result? Hands-on, interactive trips curated with more active travelers in mind.
NEW MEXICO: SANTA FE & TAOS BIKE TOUR
The artsy towns of Taos and New Mexico’s capitol, Santa Fe, are both known for plentiful galleries sporting colorful pottery, paintings, and sculptures, anchored by the multicultural influence of Spanish, Mexican, Anglo, and Indigenous traditions.
Members will take in high-desert mesa landscapes from two wheels during this five-day, four-night biking journey. In between bike miles, participants will be immersed in Southwestern art and cuisine as they explore quaint historical towns, artist communities, and local restaurants. Each day will find Members biking through sagebrush-scented landscapes and adobe-style pueblos, all while learning the rich cultural history of New Mexico.
MARTHA’S VINEYARD & NANTUCKET BIKE TOUR
The former 19th-century whaling hub of Nantucket is now an iconic summer destination for those seeking a scenic East Coast island experience. During this five-day excursion, Members will cycle mellow coastal routes past historical sea captains’ homes, lighthouses, and picturesque Nantucket beaches before continuing on to Martha’s Vineyard, a summer escape defined by tradition and history.
After exploring the rich colonial roots and maritime history of these famed destinations via bike, refuel with award-winning lobster rolls and fresh scallops. Guided walking tours and museum stops further enrich the colonial island experience.
PALM SPRINGS & JOSHUA TREE HIKING ADVENTURE
Palm Springs is best known for its Old Hollywood appeal—an oasis of hot springs, mid-century modern architecture, golf courses, and spas. Once the proverbial playground of Hollywood’s elite, it’s now the ultimate destination for a posh desert getaway. Its proximity to Joshua Tree National Park and diverse desert ecosystems—along with a focus on art and design—make Palm Springs an idyllic blend of nature and sophistication (and just the right amount of kitsch).
During this four-day active getaway, Members will hike the cacti-studded trails of Joshua Tree National Park and the legendary Pacific Coast Trail. A stay at The Ritz-Carlton Rancho Mirage presents a plethora of refreshment from cooling off in poolside VIP cabanas to desert-inspired spa treatments.
CANADIAN MOUNTAINS HELI-HIKING SUMMER ADVENTURE
Canadian Mountain Holiday’s Bobbie Burns Lodge is located deep in the heart of British Columbia’s mountains and accessible only by helicopter granting travelers expert-guided hiking excursions surrounded by a backdrop of towering peaks and ice-carved valleys with hardly another person in sight. During this four-day adventure, Members will tackle ridge hikes above deep river basins, scale granite rock faces on Mount Nimbus, and test their mettle on the ropes course. Led by professional, accredited guides, every day promises spectacular experiences customized for any age, ability, and adventure style.
After a day in the mountains, enjoy the beauty of sun-kissed meadows surrounding the lodge, soak in the hot tub, or enjoy a revitalizing massage. By night, guests and guides gather for gourmet meals while reveling in the day’s tales.