New England is the perfect place to go for an early summer road trip. The flowers have bloomed, humidity is still fairly tolerable and the hoards of tourists are still at bay for a few more weeks. Although this northeastern corner of the United States may seem small in size, it packs a lot in terms of culture, food, history and attractions. You can decide between stops at quaint beach towns to bustling cities all along the Atlantic coast.

Start out by visiting the resort town of Newport, Rhode Island, just 30 miles south of Providence. It offers marvelous sandy beaches, mansions, vineyards and a variety of ocean activities. This maritime city has one of the highest concentrations of colonial homes in the nation and a well-preserved and documented history at the Newport Historical Society. You can also find a strong naval influence due to it being a major U.S. Navy training center and home to the U.S. Naval War College and the Naval Undersea Warfare Center.

The harbors are teeming with crafts of all kind ranging from commercial fishing boats to fancy power boats. Newport is also known as the sailing capitol of the United States and has hosted many series of yacht races for the America’s Cup in the past. Choice walking and hiking trails can also be found throughout the city and its surrounding state parks.

After a few days of quiet R&R you might want to give your vacation a jumpstart by heading on up to beantown to get a dose of big city life. Boston is the largest city in New England and has been the location of many important events in our history such as some battles of the American Revolution, the Boston Tea Party and the Siege of Boston. The city also is home to numerous colleges and universities, including Harvard, which add to its intellectual reputation.

All you sports fans should take the time to head to Fenway Park for a Red Sox game and watch them defend their 2007 World Series title. If baseball isn’t your thing, then you can also watch the Boston Bruins tear it up on the ice or the Boston Celtics battle it out on the basketball court.

Finish up your trip with a stop in Portland, Maine whose Old Port districts have a high concentration of eating and drinking establishments. The 2007 Food Network Awards even nominated it as one of the three finalists for “Delicious Destination of the Year.” Wander down the streets and pop into any local restaurant to try some delicious seafood such as boiled Maine Lobster or a cup of savory clam chowder. Portland is also home to many parks, art museums and auditoriums so you can find a place to relax after a hearty meal.

The landscape of New England is breathtaking during any point of the year, and no matter where you decide to stop, you are sure to end up in a place rich with history, culture and natural beauty.

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Who would have thought that the path to relaxation and rejuvenation would lie in the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness? The Cradle Mountain – Lake St. Clair National Park, located in the northwest part of the island, is part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area and boasts a wild and diverse landscape ranging from ancient forest to glacial lakes.

A number of eco-friendly resorts can be found in or around the park and range from a ‘relaxing spa getaway’ to a ‘wilderness escape.’ The park’s lush background acts as a perfect setting for anyone looking to unwind and make a connection with nature. Last fall RealTravel blogger stuartsfraser had the chance to visit the park and actually hike up Cradle Mountain:

“It didn’t take long to reach the summit plateau but even here the going was awkward at times. I disappeared up to my waste in snow just 2m from the summit. It was a fantastic, fun route and possibly as challenging as I would want to attempt without any real winter gear with me. The views from the top were also absolutely superb.” (more…)

Travelers can take their pick of accommodations ranging from forest cabins to comfortable resorts. One such place is the Cradle Mountain Lodge which lies just on the edge of the park and offers 86 individual cabins to choose from depending on your preference. They range from deluxe luxury cabins that include their own spa and hot tub to smaller cabins with just the basic necessities. You can also expect fine food and Tasmanian wine to accompany your stay here as you explore the beautiful landscape. Other bonuses include restaurants, lounges, a wine cellar, close proximity to other attractions and a spa facility.

If something a bit more rustic is your cup of tea, then check out the Cradle Mountain Highlanders Cottages. Each cabin is custom built with uniquely different layouts that cater to the single traveler, couples, families as well as backpackers and small group accommodation. This is the ideal accommodation base for a Tasmanian outdoor adventure as you set out to explore the wilderness of the surrounding park.

For more upscale accommodations check out the Cradle Mountain Chateau—a 4 star eco-resort at the north end of the park. All rooms and suites are ground level and have private decks for wildlife viewing and woodland views. The more luxury rooms include king-sized beds and bathroom spas. This is the perfect place to relax after a day of hiking through the old-growth rain forests or strolling along cascading rivers.

Cradle Mountain is a great wilderness getaway to take your mind off the rapid pace of everyday life and help you unwind in a setting that is unlike any other in the world.

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