Top 10

Top Trips to Take with Dad

2023 has brought exciting new hotel openings, imaginative restaurants and thought-provoking art exhibitions, creating so much to see and do. Whether you’re getting a history fix in London, searching for the best tapas in foodie favorite Madrid or trekking Mount Kilimanjaro during an adrenaline-pumping journey to Tanzania, these experiences are all the more special when traveling with dad. Read on for our favorite father-approved destinations and trip ideas.

Contact your Indagare Trip Designer (or  Indagare, if you are not yet a member) to discuss the best trip ideas for traveling fathers (and family trips in general) in 2023 and beyond. Our team can provide expert travel advice and assist with custom itinerary planning, restaurant recommendations and more.

EPIC HIKING & ADVENTURE

American West

Dolomites

The glorious Italian Dolomites region is blessed with stunning mountain ranges that offer incredible hiking and climbing during the summer and fall, plus a slew of Michelin-starred restaurants and interesting historical sites.

Are you and dad interested in exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site with fellow hikers? On our Indagare Journey this September, spend six days exploring the awe-inspiring landscapes of the Italian Dolomites and develop your fitness on daily guided six-mile hikes with Indagare-adored guide Diego Zanesco and expert local mountaineers. Click here to learn more and sign up.

Related: The Download: Dolomites with Melissa Biggs Bradley

Atacama Desert, Chile

While Chilean Patagonia may be the first destination to come to mind for a hiking trip to Chile, Indagare has the hidden gems of the Atacama Desert top of mind, from its red rock canyons and ancient lava flows to its natural hot springs surrounded by waterfalls. Indagare adores Awasi Atacama, for dads with older children looking for a private, tailored experience in the Chilean Desert and Tierra Atacama, for families that enjoy intermingling with other travelers on their excursions.

Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania

For adventurers, explorers and families, Tanzania is hard to beat. Climbers travel from around the world to conquer Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro. Reaching the crater’s summit can take anywhere from five to 10 days depending on the route—routes range in difficulty so it is possible to summit the peak without any technical climbing. This journey to the world’s highest free-standing mountain is a climb of a lifetime.

Related: 13 Ultimate Wilderness Vacations

REST & RELAXATION

Scottish Highlands

Does your dream getaway include hunting lodges, falconry schools, whiskey distilleries and fantastic golf courses? Well, with its breathtaking scenery and an indomitable Scottish spirit, the Highlands may be perfect for you. Gleneagles is an idyllic country resort rich in recreational activities and Scottish warmth—after a day of fly-fishing, developing your aim during clay pigeon shooting and swinging easy at one of the world’s most well-known golf destinations, settle in at the spa or enjoy the gastronomic genius that is Andrew Fairlie (a two-Michelin-star restaurant in the heart of the resort).

Related: A (Very In-Depth) Report on Scotland: The Isle of Skye, the Scottish Highlands and Edinburgh

Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Relais & Châteaux Blackberry Mountain spans 5,200 acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee (2,800 of which are dedicated to land conservation) and is an ideal, inclusive destination where guests can curate their perfect experience. Sister property to Blackberry Farm, Blackberry Mountain is a health- and wellness-focused property with renowned hospitality and a superb culinary program (both are Indagare Index properties and member favorites, too). Mornings can be spent fly-fishing or kayaking amid imposing mountain views, while afternoons are for taking a dip in the spa’s outdoor, year-round heated pool or enjoying an American whiskey tasting.

Related: Legendary Hotels: Blackberry Farm with Mary Celeste Beall

Napa Valley, California

The Californian coast has a lot to offer—wine tastings at Napa Valley vineyards, long scenic drives, sensational beaches and national parks—there are innumerable ways to unwind. On our radar is Crosby Roamann, a boutique, family-run winery that purchased their own vineyard in 2020 and produces conscientiously farmed and handcrafted wines. Tastings are offered from their chic industrial space minutes from Napa’s downtown. Another property we're excited about is Stanly Ranch, an Auberge Resorts Collection that opened its doors in April 2022; experience their exclusive wine tours of Napa, safaris with professional wildlife photographer Daniel Dietrich, hot air ballooning over Napa and so much more.

CONNECTING TO NATURE & WILDLIFE

French Polynesia

French Polynesia is a haven for breathtaking views and connecting with nature—secret lagoons filled with bright coral reefs concealing rare fish, tropical forests filled with wildlife and beautiful beaches. One of our favorite French Polynesian escapes is The Brando, a groundbreaking eco-luxury resort with a mission of conservation and sustainability housed on a spectacular private island.

Related: 22 Best Private Island Resorts to Escape to This Year

Botswana

Botswana is a picture-perfect safari destination with thrilling drives through the bush and unforgettable wildlife experiences. There’s nothing quite like venturing out into the wide open spaces, away from the public, and watching how the animals behave and interact with each other. One of the best activities is Hyena Pan’s underground viewing dugout, where travelers can observe elephants at their watering hole from just inches away—a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Participants on our Insider Journey to Botswana with safari legend Colin Bell—the co-founder of Wilderness Safaris and author of The Last Elephants—will experience this private viewing experience and more, during Colin’s favorite time of year. “In early November we receive that first little bit of rain that turns everything green, but we still get the same wonderful concentration of wildlife as you would during the dry season,” he shares. Click here to learn more about the trip.

Related: Why Go Now: Botswana

Costa Rica

With its fantastic jungle adventures, water sports and luxury properties that make the most of the natural surroundings and environmental impact, Costa Rica has pioneered ecotourism. Whether you’re visiting to relax and enjoy outdoor adventure with family or bond over giving back (or both), this lush country offers unique experiences surrounded by great natural beauty. Travelers can visit the rainforest to view wildlife, enjoy Costa Rica's famous sunsets and waterfalls and go zip-lining through the canopies.

Madagascar

Madagascar's diverse ecosystems call to naturalists, nature lovers and curious travelers from all over the world. It is home to lush tropical rainforests, vibrant coral reefs and fascinating biodiversity (80 percent of which is found only on the island). While based at Indagare-adored Anjajavy le Lodge, travelers can experience the true wonders of Madagascar with ease. From outdoor adventures through natural landscapes to discovering Malagasy culture with visits to local villages, a trip to the island is a once-in-a-lifetime journey—especially to do with family.

See this amazing place—and help protect it—this November, on an intimate expedition with celebrated naturalist guide and Madagascar environmentalist Lee Fuller. Click here to learn more and reserve spots for you and your dad.

HISTORY, ART & ARCHITECTURE

Tokyo, Japan

Japan

is officially back open, so there is no better time like the present to experience all that the country has to offer. Specifically in Tokyo, you will find a whole world of historical Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, beautiful parks, intriguing architecture and well-known artwork—there is so much to see and discover. Visit the famous Meiji Jingo Shinto shrine before enjoying a bento box in the nearby Yoyogi Park, or walk underneath Louise Bourgeois’ larger-than-life Maman spider sculpture, which stands guard outside the Mori Modern Art Museum. Art connoisseurs will love staying at the Ritz-Carlton Tokyo for its prime location in Roppongi, a neighborhood which is home to much of Tokyo’s arts and culture scene. Do not miss The Sumida Hokusai Museum (in Sumida) and the Yayoi Kusama Museum (in Shinjuku City)—each showcasing the renowned work of the Japanese artists.

London is a bustling city that effortlessly blends trends and traditions, historical gems are tucked between skyscrapers and vibrant restaurants. Get your first fix of British culture at icons like Big Ben (finally free of scaffolding in 2022 after its five-year restoration!) and Westminster Abbey, and by viewing the changing of the guards at Buckingham Palace. Art lovers should visit the Victoria and Albert Museum, the world’s largest museum of arts and design, with over 2.27 million pieces. A soccer game would be a great addition to your London itinerary—contact our Bookings Team to check the game schedule and to arrange reservations at the best new restaurants and exhibitions.

Related: Dispatch from London: Melissa’s Spring 2023 Visit

Sicily, Italy

Sicily's capital city of Palermo and ancient center of Syracuse hold some of the most important Greek and Roman ruins of the Mediterranean. Widely considered to be the most conquered city in the world—take note of the distinctive Arab-Norman architecture throughout the city—Palermo is rich in both culture and gastronomy. The succession of rulers has left a patrimony of unique monuments, especially the Norman churches (including the the 12th-century Palatine Chapel) where the combined skills of Arab, Norman and Byzantine masters created magnificent mosaics. A trip to Agrigento will continue to unveil Sicily's deep, multiethnic roots; Valle dei Templi (Valley of the Temples), a UNESCO site, houses some of the best-preserved Greek ruins after Athens itself. And Ortigia, the historical center of Syracuse, contains many important landmarks, including the Ancient Greek Temple of Apollo, Diana’s Fountain and Castello Maniace.

This October, experience the great wonders of Sicily for yourself in on our Insider Journey with archaeologist and expert historian guide Jamie Sewell. Step back in time with history-, art- and architecture-focused touring in the cities of Palermo, Agrigento, Sélinonte, Segesta and Syracuse. Click here to learn more and sign up.

Related: Melissa’s Sicily Cheat Sheet

Normandy & Paris, France

Normandy is a life-goal destination for many, thanks to the region’s significant role in World War II. Seeing the beaches and coastal cliffs in person and walking through the impressive rows and rows of crosses in the military cemeteries is a sobering experience. Combine the powerful history of this region with Paris, whose length and rich past lies around every corner. As for where to stay, the Hôtel Ritz Paris sits on one of the city's most famous and beautiful neoclassical squares, Place Vendôme, and is home to Bar Hemingway, whose leather armchairs and sepia-colored photos remain virtually unchanged since the writer held court here. Be sure to visit Musée de Cluny, which reopened May 12, 2022 after a multiyear renovation that restored a 15th-century chapel and the remains of ancient Gallo-Roman baths.

FOODIE FAVORITES

Oaxaca & Mexico City, Mexico

A paradise for Mezcal lovers, Oaxaca is an incredibly charming, colorful, off-the-beaten-path destination that has it all—spirituality, art, nature and seven different flavors of mole. On your culinary journey, first spend a night in Mexico City enjoying the city’s experimental cuisine at restaurants like Ticuchi, a cozy spot with a seasonal à-la-carte menu featuring Oaxacan classics, prepared with a gastronomic spin, and stellar cocktails. The best taste of Oaxaca will be found by wandering through its many markets (check out Mercado de 20 de Noviembre and Mercado Benito Juarez) and by indulging in Mezcal tastings around the city, the primary producer of Mezcal! The friendly locals make it easy to try new things, explore the music-filled cobblestone streets and immerse yourself in the community.

Emilia-Romagna, Italy

Emilia-Romagna—the birthplace of tortellini, Prosciutto and Parmigiano-Reggiano, as well as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Ducati—is known as Italy’s “Food Valley,” and is home to such cities as Bologna, Parma and Modena. The region has gifted the world with the finest products of Italian cuisine, along with some of the finest chefs.

But the area isn’t only a point of pilgrimage for foodies and oenophiles: It’s also known as the “Motor Valley,” the global hub for Italy’s famed automotive industry (Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of Enzo Ferrari—as well as Lamborghini, Maserati, Ducati and Pagani). For foodie and Formula 1-loving fathers, we’ve got the ultimate gift: The chance to explore Emilia-Romagna—as well as Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati and Ducati—in the company of Modena native and world-famous Master Chef Massimo Bottura. While based at his luxe guest house Casa Maria Luigia, guests of our October Insider Journey trip will dive into Bottura’s philosophy of “Slow Food, Fast Cars,” with private access to the Lamborghini museums, a look at one of the best Maserati race car collections in the world and behind-the-scenes tours of three of Massimo’s restaurants. Click here for more information.

Related: Food & Travel Legends: Massimo Bottura & His Beloved Modena

Madrid, Spain

Spain’s capital comes alive in the afternoon and evenings with families, friends and travelers chatting and sharing quality time over drinks and tapas. A walk through Madrid’s Lavapiés and La Latina neighborhoods will provide ample options—such as Juana La Loca for their juicy potato, eggs and confit onion pintxos (tortilla de papas y cebolla confitada) or Casa Lucas for their wine selection and mouth-watering oxtail tapa (rabo de toro). Another way to experience traditional Spanish flavors is by visiting Madrid’s many markets (the popular Mercado San Miguel, Mercado San Antón and the more local Mercado de la Paz to name a few). A great homebase is the Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, which opened in September 2020. It has since become a hub for locals and tourists alike, and with Paloma Fernandez Iriondo as the art curator, the hotel is rich with Spanish culture, with more than 1,500 pieces of art from young Spanish artists adorning the property.

Related: Indagare Madrid Museum Matchmaker: Plus, What’s On for 2023Contact your Indagare Trip Designer (or  Indagare, if you are not yet a member) to discuss the best trip ideas for traveling fathers (and family trips in general) in 2023 and beyond. Our team can provide expert travel advice and assist with custom itinerary planning, restaurant recommendations and more.

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