Elite Traveler March-April 2018

73 elite traveler MAR/APR 2018

EMPTY QUARTER OMAN

There are a few corners of the earth that are truly unique and have a profound effect on the way we see the world. However, to actually experience these places can be tough — many are either mostly or completely inaccessible. Amazing Escapes has found a solution by creating pop-up luxury camps in stunning remote lands. Each camp will only last for two to three months, then vanish. In October and November of this year, a camp will be set up in Oman’s Empty Quarter desert. Comprising 25,000 square miles of 1,000ft-high red sand dunes and sugar-white dunes that surreally fall right into the sea, this terrain is perfect for days spent snorkeling, exhilarating 4×4 desert drives or even a camel ride. From $1,750 per day per person. Contact Vincent Raisiere, managing director, vr@amazingescapes.ch, +41 792 121 028, amazingescapes.ch

BRITISH ROYALE UK

If the upcoming nuptials between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have inspired you to visit the UK, this 10-day multi-destination itinerary explores the best of Britain. Begin in London, where a local expert escorts you to Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament and Westminster Abbey while sharing fascinating stories, then witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at Buckingham Palace. During a private visit to the Queen’s official residence, Windsor Castle, a military knight will explain how knights are appointed and their duties within the castle. Other highlights include a visit to Stonehenge, the rolling hillsides of the Cotswolds, and Shakespeare’s birthplace, Stratford-upon-Avon. Then, visit Alnwick Castle (as seen in the Harry Potter films) to meet Her Grace the Duchess of Northumberland as she takes you on a private tour of her cherished garden. From$7,500 per person for 10 days. Contact Paul Melinis, director of sales, enquiries@insightvacations. co.uk, +1 888 862 5952, luxurygoldvacations.com

MONTANA ACTION MONTANA, US

If your idea of an adventure is to test yourself and break away from the usual creature comforts, this Montana challenge from IGO Adventures is for you. You’ll see the beauty of Montana as you swim, trek, run, mountain-bike and kayak along a course in the Whitefish area, traveling an average of 22 miles per day between campsites. You can enter as a solo participant or within a team, and the penultimate day ends with a celebration dinner and prize giving. A skilled guide will always accompany the group in case you’d rather slow down and take in the sights, and you’ll train with local experts prior to the event. The challenge begins and ends at Grouse Mountain Lodge in Whitefish, where you can enjoy a round of golf or have a much-needed massage.

From $4,400 per person for six days. Contact Bobby Melville, founder, bobby@igoadventures.com, +44 208 133 4673, igoadventures.com

Photo Chuck Haney