Some people find peace at a spa. Others prefer the beach or a lake. But you always feel refreshed after escaping to the mountains. Here are three mountain getaways—plus one hillside city—where you’ll easily slip into relaxation mode.
Photo: Sylenius (Own work) [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)%5D, via Wikimedia CommonsChamonix: This winter resort features a little red train, a vast glacier, and panoramic views of the Alps. Enjoy the snow-capped mountains long after the day trippers leave by staying at the recently renovated Terminal Neige Refuge du Montenvers.
Photo: Shakti
Almora: India’s border along Nepal and Tibet is home to old forts, even older temples, and the perennially snow-capped Himalayas. Hike to Shakti 360° Leti to stay in a freestanding bedroom far from the rest of the world.
Photo: Alexandermcnabb at English Wikipedia [GFDL (http://www.gnu.org/copyleft/fdl.html) or CC BY-SA 3.0 (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0)%5D, via Wikimedia CommonsHatta: The United Arab Emirates’ Hajar Mountains offer a respite from the heat, a dam that collects rainwater, and traditional homes and mosques. Stay at JA Hatta Fort Hotel to escape Dubai’s humidity.
Photo: Justin Vidamo via flickr
Guanajuato: This colonial city in Central Mexico has tightly clustered buildings, winding alleys, and a network of underground tunnels. Plus it’s considered one of the most beautiful places in Mexico.