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Condé Nast Traveler
16-07-2025
- Condé Nast Traveler
Where to Eat, Stay, and Play in Istria, Croatia's Picturesque Peninsula
Istria—with its sleepy fishing villages, azure waters, and verdant hills of truffle, olive, and vine—is still, miraculously, under the radar. Straddling both Mediterranean and Balkan identity, this pointed peninsula makes for not only a perfect Tuscan rival, but for a softer, more refined counterpart to the tourist-soaked Dalmatian coast. Luckily, a raft of new flight routes from UK airports have pushed open the floodgates, as have a new wave of design-forward hotels, farm-to-fork restaurants, and coastal hideaways. Put simply, Istria is now very much a contender for a worthy weekend getaway for those based in Europe or a tack-on to a longer Balkans jaunt, though bear in mind that such isolated, abundant beauty comes at a slight cost in terms of public transport infrastructure (more on how to get around below). The small scale and easy roads of the region mean that a typical Istrian day can kick off with some truffle hunting among the inland hills of Motovun, or Buzet, before twisting into a lunchtime snorkel down along the craggy coasts. By sunset, you're in the quaint old towns of Rovinj, or Porec, sipping crisp Malvazija and wondering where on earth the day went. Somehow, this place has managed to stay simultaneously refined, yet wild; relaxed, yet always on the move, boasting more cyclists than seagulls, and as many outdoors enthusiasts as there are cashmere clad couples on catamarans. FAQ: What's the best way to get to Istria? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron While there are no direct flights from the US to Pula, it's easily reached via a connection through major European hubs like Frankfurt, Munich, or London. From there, regional carriers like Croatia Airlines operate short flights directly into Pula Airport. Likewise, easyJet has expanded its Croatian reach, with returns from Pula to London starting from around $64 per person. For those happy to pair the trip with a scenic drive, Venice Marco Polo Airport—served by direct flights from New York, Boston, and Chicago—is just a two-and-a-half-hour drive away from the Istrian border, making it a popular entry point for international travelers, and an ace roadtrip en route. What's the best way to get around Istria? AccordionItemContainerButton LargeChevron With the region's dual geography of coast and grove, a rental car is must, with providers like Kayak offering up a Croat car for as little as $43 a day. In terms of pick-up points, Pula Airport is the most convenient choice if flying directly, and boasts several international hire desks. As above, if landing in Italy, many travellers opt to grab a car in Venice, or Trieste, and drive over the border into Croatia. This route offers sweeping sea views, and drops you directly into Istria's hilltop villages, and vineyards—a no brainer. Monte is the first Michelin-starred restaurant in Croatia. Mateja Vrcković A sun-drenched table set for a multi-course tasting at Monte. Maja Danica Pečanić Where to eat in Istria Istria has long been associated with gastronomy of the purest kind, with a deep, quasi-religious focus on the purity of olives, grapes, and the ever-elusive truffle. It's not surprising then, that the entire region is littered with high-quality eateries, from Michelin stars to local taverns (referred to as konobas) all offering a slice of the landscape in one place. The highest concentration of superstar eats is in and around the fashionable fishing town of Rovinj, home to Croatia's first Michelin-starred restaurant, Monte. However, for a more casual bite, head to Puntulina, built into the cliff-face, so close to the spray that the Adriatic anchovies may as well jump straight out of the sea and onto the plate. Set within the Grand Park Hotel, Cap Aureo is world-class fine dining with a difference. In chef Jeffrey Vella's dishes, flavor and seasonality are king (such as his life-affirming cauliflower 'three-ways' appetizer), with welcome flair and understated theatrics. At Cap Aureo Signature Restaurant in Rovinj, modern Croatian cuisine is elevated to an art form, served with precision and flair. Mario Kucera/Grand Park Hotel Rovinj A little further south, in the placid olive groves of Bale, Villa Meneghetti's restaurant offers a local menu, gleaned from their own groves and garden, cooked up by 28-year-old wunderkind Ante Miletic. Dishes dance between truffle-topped fuži pastas, Lim Bay oysters, or whatever is budding in the abundant kitchen garden that day. Heading north into the fairytale hill towns of Motovun, Grožnjan, and more, easier offerings can be found in one of the many roadside konobas, with Konoba Stari Podrum's convivial garden and open grill well worth popping the hazard lights on for. It's worth remembering that, for Istrians, wine is almost as big a deal as olive oil—and rightly so. In recent years, both have been cleaning up international awards, and none more so than those of historic winery Kozlović, whose über modern, panoramic tasting room embodies the region's forward thinking approach, playfully poking out into the ancient, flowing vineyards, and cream fields of Buje. Sunseekers flock to the turquoise waters and rocky charm of Hawaii Beach in Pula, Croatia—a tucked-away cove that's anything but secret in summer. Devgnor/Getty Where to play in Istria The joy of Istria is reveling in the mash-up of coast and countryside—and when it comes to play, the place manages to be both relaxed and elemental. Inland, take a dog walk with a difference, at the family run Prodan Tartufi, whose expert snouts (and three generations of human equivalents!) will lead you through the wild, misty hills of Buzet—a town locals say has more truffle dogs than people. It's worth remembering that nobody leaves Istria without having tasted truffles a hundred ways, from scrambled eggs to ice cream. Beyond hills of so-called 'Black Gold' there's also a handful of serene swimming lakes and waterfalls, such as local spot Zarečki Krov, which is well worth the drive for a lazy lunch.
CTV News
16-07-2025
- General
- CTV News
Backyard Fun Week: Tips for bird watching
Backyard Fun Week: Tips for bird watching Enjoy the beauty of birds in your own backyard. We show you how to set up and what you need.
Yahoo
20-06-2025
- Yahoo
This Wisconsin state park campground is rated one of Midwest's best
Copper Falls State Park is primarily known for its beautiful scenery: two 30-feet waterfalls, a 100-foot gorge and the remains of ancient lava flows attract hikers every year. But don't forget about its two campgrounds. They, too, have been getting their flowers. The Dyrt, a popular camping website and app, placed Copper Falls at No. 3 in the Midwest Region on its 2025 Best Places to Camp Awards. The rankings are based on user reviews and ratings. "Copper Falls State Park is a fantastic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The hiking trails are well-maintained and offer beautiful scenic views, making for an enjoyable trek through nature," user Malte W. said in an online review in December. "The campsites are spacious and provide a good amount of privacy, allowing for a peaceful camping experience." Located in Mellen, the park features two campgrounds with 55 total campsites. The North Campground has 32 sites (28 with electric hookups), while the South Campground has 23 non-electric sites (including four walk-ins) and a four-person cabin with padded beds and nearby shower facilities. There's also a backpack campsite along the Bad River, which provides a quieter setting. Camping costs $20 to $30 per night depending on the site and whether it has electrical hookups. All sites come equipped with picnic tables, fire rings and tent pads, and pets are allowed at all campsites. Visitors can also enjoy many hiking trails, fishing in Loon Lake and nearby rivers and exploring other picturesque areas of the park. This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin's Copper Falls State Park among best Midwest campgrounds
Forbes
19-06-2025
- Forbes
The Uber-Rich Are Flocking To This Small Mountain Town
Telluride is known for its laid-back, authentic mountain atmosphere. While the Hamptons and Aspen grab the headlines, the real story of elite summer travel is unfolding in the San Juan Mountains at Telluride, Colorado. Known primarily for its outstanding skiing, Telluride has quietly transformed into the go-to summer escape for high-net-worth homeowners and travelers who crave privacy, authenticity, adventure and bespoke luxury. Crowds gather for opening day of the Telluride Film Festival. Telluride is renowned for its world-class skiing, vibrant summer festivals and authentic mountain character. It's a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities year-round, including not only skiing but also hiking and biking. The town hosts numerous festivals, including the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, Telluride Jazz Festival and Telluride Film Festival, adding to its cultural appeal. Telluride is known for its laid-back, authentic mountain atmosphere, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a more relaxed vacation experience. Telluride is seeing a surge of interest from the 1% who are drawn by the town's intentional under-the-radar vibe and quiet luxury. The $20M off-market ranches, miles of hiking trail excursions straight from your front door and zero paparazzi are all attractive draws for the rich and famous. There are no Gucci storefronts or restaurant lines here, just the kind of insider access and laid-back luxury that today's wealth gravitates toward. The limited commercial flights and ease of traveling to Telluride by private jet help, too Four Seasons is bringing a five-star hotel and condos. Telluride, which has been quietly growing its luxury personality over the past few years, is seeing increased interest from wealthy homebuyers and travelers looking for an adventurous, wellness-oriented, down-to-earth locale to spend their summers. Incredibly the town now sees more visitors and real estate sales in the summer than the winter, shocking for what's typically thought of as a ski destination. One key feature influencing the uber-rich is Four Seasons, which is bringing the first five-star hotel and branded condos in over 15 years to Telluride. It's no surprise many of the condos have already been snapped up by the affluent looking for year-round vacation homes — especially the wealthy from California, Florida and the Southwest who seek cooler mountain locations for the summer. Nadim Ashi, founder and CEO of Fort Partners, co-developer of Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride, says, 'My family and I have been visiting Telluride for over 20 years. It is my favorite ski resort in the world. I've experienced firsthand its subtle yet steady evolution into a year-round luxury destination. We knew the Four Seasons brand would seamlessly align with the DNA of Telluride and complement everything it already has to offer. Our aim is for Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride to set a new bar for residential and hospitality experiences in North American ski resorts.' Telluride is known throughout the world for its incredible skiing. Brian O'Neill of Telluride Properties, who is handling sales for Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride alongside Compass' Bill Fandel, adds, "Telluride provides high quality ski conditions paired with a low-key lifestyle. The town feels down-to-earth, even while offering excellent restaurants, incredible scenery and year-round activities for every age. Those who want the best of nature and European-style, on-mountain dining without the over-the-top party scene of other mountain destinations like Aspen, Vail and Deer Valley know Telluride is their place.' In addition to this atmosphere, the value of Telluride's somewhat difficult-to-access location has become an advantage in recent years. Private aviation into Telluride is very easy and while commercial access has gotten much better, it is still longer and less direct than many mountain towns. This barrier to entry has propelled Telluride into an exclusive resort where the 'quiet luxury' affluent reside. O'Neill says, 'The introduction of the Four Seasons brand has also been a major catalyst for the region's luxury evolution. The area is attracting more luxury attention than ever before and Four Seasons is finally meeting the demand for an updated, premier property in this area. This idyllic destination is small and remote, creating a sense of exclusivity that appeals to luxury homeowners and travelers. At the same time, the region offers exceptional year-round adventures and activities, from skiing in the winter to outdoor sports, dozens of cultural festivals and educational programming in the summer.' Affluent travelers can enjoy luxurious surroundings all year round. Because of this comprehensive offering, developers are seeing a range of buyers looking for homes that fit various lifestyles. There's strong geographical diversity, with people from the East Coast and even Mexico wanting a Western ski home, while luxury buyers from areas like Texas, California and Florida are increasingly seeking out vacation home destinations they can escape to during the hot summer months. Some people want the trophy ski-in/ski-out mountain home, and others want a centrally located, full-service condo with tons of amenities. 'At Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride, we've seen frequent travelers who are familiar with the brand and want to take advantage of the hotel residences, families looking for spacious homes where they can stay with their children during school or summer breaks, and everything in between,' explains O'Neill. 'The Four Seasons brand is appealing to discerning buyers in a way that current development in the region never has." "Telluride is a special town built on a strong history,' says Dev Motwani, President and CEO of Merrimac Ventures, co-developer of Four Seasons Hotel and Residences Telluride. 'This incredible destination continues to grow in popularity, yet maintains its unique charm and attracts people seeking an authentic mountain experience. The forthcoming Four Seasons meets the demand for a new, luxury residential and hospitality offering while reflecting the true spirit of the community."
Forbes
16-06-2025
- Forbes
Breathtaking Bucket List Campsites Across The U.S.
Camping and hiking in Yosemite National Park is a bucket list adventure you'll never forget. Preparing for a camping adventure, no matter what the season or who tags along, doesn't have to be an arduous or burdensome undertaking. Whether you're aiming for a solo outdoor adventure, quality time with little ones, or a multigenerational romp in nature, we've got you covered with not only where to go for the best campsites across the country, but also, the details on how to lock in a coveted reservation as well as what you can expect once you arrive. The following destinations, campsites, and trails are bucket list quests for many hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. It's best to plan ahead. Camping in Yosemite National Park is an intrepid adventure. Perhaps you've dreamed of thru-hiking and you've had the Pacific Crest Trail or the John Muir Trail on your radar, however, you don't have several weeks or months that you can take out of your busy schedule for a long-distance backpacking adventure. The good news, for intrepid and fit hikers, is that you can tackle a big trek, with plenty of elevation gain, over a weekend in Yosemite National Park. Most of the popular Yosemite Valley sits within a no-camping zone, so you'll have to hit the trails and hike in at least a few miles, with thousands of feet of possible elevation gain, to reach your camping spot. Of course, this is also where the big views are! The most important thing you should know is that reservations are required for lodging, camping, and backpacking in Yosemite National Park from May 24—September 1. Choose from 13 different campgrounds and reserve your spot as soon as possible on Expect the summer months to be the most busy; if you have the time, plan to camp in the shoulder seasons. Hiking to the top of Half Dome is a bucket list adventure for many, but you'll need a permit if you want to go. Apply for a wilderness permit that includes Half Dome, which will allow you to camp in Little Yosemite Valley, or at another spot along the way. Half Dome Trail is a strenuous 14—16-mile hike, with 4,800 feet of elevation gain. Your efforts will be rewarded in spades, however, as you'll see Vernal and Nevada Falls, Liberty Cap, Half Dome, and stellar panoramic views of Yosemite Valley. Begin from either Happy Isles or Curry Village or from a nearby campground—Upper, Lower, and North Pines Campgrounds are the closest and most desired. Death Valley National Park has some of the most beautiful and remote camping spots in the entire national park system. For a multi-night adventure in the lowest, driest, hottest national park, a park that is a designated gold-tier Dark Sky Park, look no further than Death Valley National Park. You can expect to encounter rugged terrain, skies full of stars and planets, nights so quiet that they seem 'loud', and wild horses. Yes, wild horses! Given that the backcountry is so remote, with few other backpackers on the trail, it might be a good idea to enlist a professional guide. Wildland Trekking leads tours throughout this weathered landscape that straddles the border between California and Nevada. Planning well ahead to ensure your spot, choose the Death Valley Classic Backpack, which operates from January—March. This otherworldly trail in the land of extremes twists through Death Valley's backcountry for nearly 30 miles. For three nights, you'll sleep under the darkest and most beautiful skies, while listening a nearby creek. The trail requires a fair amount of bushwhacking, steep climbs, and snaking ambles through multi-hued canyons. You'll carry everything you need and nothing that you don't on your back and your own two feet will get you to the looped finish line. It's an incredibly rewarding feeling to challenge your body and your mind on this adventure. Each campsite is remote and private, giving you ample opportunity to reconnect with yourself and the world around in a peaceful, undisturbed environment. Views and diverse terrain abound in Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Exposing children to the outdoors is something you'll always be proud of as a parent. A fantastic park that offers plenty of day hikes for all levels is Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Keep eyes peeled for a plethora of wildlife like black bears, over 200 different species of birds, deer, and salamanders. Permits are required for overnight backcountry stays and tags are essential for parking. Be sure to operate with Leave No Trace principles and stay bear award during the high activity months of May—August, hanging your food and smelly items on the cable system. is your go-to resource for booking camping sites in the park and nearby—choose from 30 different options. Also, it's worth noting, there are tons of family-friendly activities and fun happenings in the nearby Tennessee towns of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, and Sevierville. From mini-golf to Dollywood to Anakeesta, a mountain top adventure park, there's plenty to do in the surrounding areas. Hiking opportunities abound, with trails open every month of the year. Hike Charlies Bunion, Alum Cave Bluffs, Andrews Bald Rainbow Falls, or Chimney Tops—all offering the beautiful sights and sounds of nature with waterfalls, old-growth forests, or bird's-eye mountain views. Children new to hiking will love the four-mile-roundtrip Kephart Prong Trail, which highlights the Civilian Conservation Corps' history as well as the logging industry. An easy two miles to the trail shelter, this hike has fun features like log bridges and evidence of an old fish hatchery that was built in 1936. If kids love the trails and the outdoors, they'll want to protect wild spaces for years to come.
