As many are already starting to gear up for spring travel, visitors can immerse in experiences and celebrations around the world. Whether it’s joining the Sand Sculpture Festival in southern Portugal, witnessing the Great Migration in Tanzania, or visiting Chile's wine valleys during harvest season, Spring 2026 offers something special for every kind of adventurer.
Where to go in April
Pedal Through Ticino and Unwind in Lakeside Luxury at Hotel Eden Roc
Set along the shimmering shores of Lake Maggiore in Ascona, Switzerland, Hotel Eden Roc offers the perfect getaway for travelers participating in SlowUp Ticino on April 18—a traffic-free day for outdoor exploration in Alpine scenery. From the hotel, guests can easily join the 31-mile route from Bellinzona to Locarno, open to cyclists, walkers, and rollerbladers. The scenic path connects the castles of Bellinzona with the Lake Maggiore region, winding through the lush Piano di Magadino and dotted with entertainment points and food stalls. Participants can move at their own pace, entering or exiting the course at any time.
After a day of adventure, guests can return to the award-winning, luxurious hotel to unwind at the Eden Roc Spa or savor Swiss cuisine at the two-Michelin-starred La Brezza. Those eager to continue exploring can turn to the hotel’s Outdoor Butler, who crafts tailor-made excursions through Ticino’s picturesque forests, charming villages, and valleys for more outdoor adventure. As the only true beach resort in Switzerland with direct waterfront access, the property invites guests to enjoy an array of water sports, including swimming, waterskiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. Guests can also fill their days with peaceful walks along Ascona’s main piazza or leisurely boat rides across the lake, continuing to soak in the region’s rich culture and timeless Mediterranean charm.
A Scenic Lakeside Running Competition with Cape of Senses
Lake Garda in Italy is the perfect destination for active travelers in April, with the FILA Lake Garda 42 competition offering runners a chance to experience the stunning landscape. From April 10 - 12, participants can choose between two distances: a 42-kilometer route from Limone to Malcesine, or a 21-kilometer course from Arco to Malcesine. The event also features an Expo Area, Gastro Area, and Cheering Zone, adding to the excitement. For those starting at the lakeshore in Limone, they will enjoy breathtaking views of the lake and mountains as the course passes charming streets, orchards, and the beach promenade, with spectators cheering along the way. The finish line in Malcesine offers a well-deserved reward after an unforgettable running experience. For accommodations, Perched 600 feet above Lake Garda in Torre del Benaco, Cape of Senses is an adults-only spa retreat designed for year-round relaxation and renewal. With breathtaking views of the lake and mountains, it offers an ideal base for guests looking to explore Lake Garda.
Spier Light Art Returns to Stellenbosch with a New Season of Illuminated Works
Spier Light Art returns to Spier Hotel and Wine Farm in Stellenbosch from March 6 to April 6, 2026, marking its seventh year of illuminating the farm with light-based works that fuse art, technology, and the natural landscape. The exhibition celebrates form and movement through installations that bend and shift across the grounds, inviting reflection on personal and collective histories as well as the environment. Visitors can wander through pieces that range from quietly contemplative to interactive and playful, each sparking curiosity and emotional connection under the night sky. Free to the public, Spier Light Art continues to bring together creativity and community in one of South Africa’s most vibrant artistic settings.
Discover Cape Town’s Shoulder Season at Ellerman House
From April through June, Cape Town enters its shoulder season, when mild temperatures, clear skies, and quieter streets make the city especially appealing. Ellerman House in residential neighborhood of Bantry Bay offers a front-row seat to this time of year, combining art, wine, and coastal scenery. Guests can take guided art tours through one of South Africa’s most significant private collections, featuring more than 1,000 works displayed across the house and gallery, or visit nearby exhibitions such as the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa, which offers complimentary access to those staying at Ellerman House. The concierge of Ellerman House can arrange wine tastings with the in-house sommelier or plan day trips to the Cape Winelands to explore historic estates. For those drawn to the outdoors, hiking excursions up Table Mountain or Lion’s Head can be organized before returning to ocean views and quiet evenings at Ellerman House. June marks the start of whale season, when Southern Right Whales pass along the Atlantic coast and can often be seen from the lawns and terraces at Ellerman House.
International Sand Sculpture Festival in the Algarve
As spring unfolds in the Algarve region, travelers can immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty and yearly festivals at W Algarve in Albufeira, where 134 rooms and suites, plus with 83 residences, all feature spacious balconies for witnessing southern Portugal’s springtime come to life. During the springtime, travelers to the region can head to Lagoa and visit the International Sand Sculpture Festival, also known as "Sand City,” which stands as the largest event of its kind. Showcasing the talents of approximately 60 professional sand sculptors from around the globe, the festival transforms 65,000 tons of sand into captivating works of art. Each year features a theme—from Hollywood stars and music icons to recreations of the lost world and Greek mythology— these detailed sculptures, reaching heights of up to 12 meters, provides an immersive and unforgettable experience for all attendees. In April, the region continues to transform into a picturesque landscape as almond trees burst into white and pink blossoms, symbolizing the arrival of spring. According to local legend, these trees were planted to resemble snow for a princess who longed for the winter landscapes of her homeland. Springtime also provides ideal conditions for whale watching, with species like fin whales and humpback whales migrating through the waters. At W Algarve, guests can book a variety of whale-watching tours through Marriott to see these creatures, with the on-property Whatever/Whenever team always on hand to assist for an easy booking experience.
After a long day of exploring the region, travelers can unwind at the AWAY Spa, which includes six treatment rooms, a sauna, steam room, whirlpool, and an outdoor relaxation lounge overlooking the gardens. To make the most of the April weather, the property offers outdoor fitness classes on their FIT Deck, or even guided cliff walks along the coast at the end of the property.
Visit Chile's Wine Valleys During Harvest Season
Late February - April mark the autumn months for Chile and its wine regions, with the added benefit of thinner crowds and pleasant weather. Whether travelers are looking to visit the Atacama Desert's lunar-like landscape, the vibrant city of Santiago, or the wilds of Patagonia, Quasar Expeditions can plan a completely tailored itinerary, including a trip to the Central Wine Valley during harvest season before or after an adventurous escape. Working with world-renowned vineyards and local vintners, the add-on is the perfect way to get the best out of the shoulder season. The team at Quasar works with every guest, allowing them to get a full immersion in Chile's beloved wine scene, which is at peak season every April.
A Continued Celebration of Jane Austen Located in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Gainsborough Bath Spa lies on the site of ancient ruin and the former home to Jane Austen all in one. Bath's historical and archaeological significance are kept alive at the 5-star luxury hotel through its spa as the only hotel in the UK with direct access to ancient Roman Bath waters, as well as its activities in collaboration with Strictly Jane Austen. In 2025, The Gainsborough Bath Spa collaborated with the company to create a charming and elegant celebration of the renowned writer. The multiple-day celebration included guided tours, high teas, and a series of talks in her honor and will be continued into 2026 with celebrations beginning from April 27th until May 2nd. They will once again breathe life into Austen’s novels in the streets she called home with the sumptuous and luxurious Gainsborough Bath Spa as a home base. Occupying two 18th century buildings defined by its Georgian and Victorian façades, it stands as a tribute to the city’s legacy and enduring sign of the romantic, bygone era.
Where to go in May
Natural Selection’s Nkasa Linyanti & Hoanib Elephant Camp: May 2026
Natural Selection will unveil Nkasa Linyanti and Hoanib Elephant Camp in Namibia. Nkasa Linyanti, the only luxury camp on the island within Nkasa Rupara National Park, will offer six under-canvas suites between the Linyanti and kwando rivers. On game drives and boat excursions, guests can spot buffalo, elephants, and hippos while supporting conservation initiatives including BioBoundary Project, which minimizes human-elephant conflict, and Wild Shots Outreach, which empowers local youth through wildlife photography.
Hoanib Elephant Camp in Kaokoland, will feature ten rooms among towering mountains and riverbeds with insulated canvas roofs to ensure comfort and minimal environmental impact. Visitors can enjoy game drives to see black rhinos, lions, and zebras, and connect with the Himba tribe through cultural experiences, all while supporting conservation projects, including Black Rhino Relocation Program—aimed at expanding the breeding range of this endangered species—and Desert-Dwelling Giraffe Conservation, raising awareness of the giraffe populations.
Celebrate Venice’s 50th Vogalonga at Violino d’Oro
The Vogalonga has been a long-standing tradition in Venice for 50 years and plans to mark this half-century milestone with the next edition on Sunday, May 24, 2026. Each year 8,000 rowers from every corner of the world gather in Venice to row through the historic route of Vogalonga. An over 18-mile route between the lagoon, its small islands and the magnificent Grand Canal attract spectators from all over to cheer on the rowers through this noncompetitive journey—serveing as reminder to respect nature and culture by preserving its traditions and beauty.
Pairing this event with a stay at Violino d’Oro provides a holistic cultural journey for visitors. In the heart of the city, guests will experience the full spectrum of Venetian heritage. The hotel pays homage to the city’s artistic heritage and deep history, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship in fabrics, glass, and floors. The design includes contributions from renowned brands such as Rubelli, Venini, Martinelli Luce, Asin Terrazzieri Veneziani, Richard Ginori, and Oluce, and more. Known for their high-quality and unique designs, Violino d'Oro is a true design masterpiece supporting local craftsmanship.
Dry Season Adventure at Tswalu
With Norse Airlines extending its season route from London Gatwick to Cape Town until May 31, 2026, makes May the best time of year visit Tswalu. Located only a two hour flight from Cape Town with private Fireblade charters, Tswalu is the largest private reserve in South Africa and the dry season makes it is easy to spot all kinds of wildlife. The reserve is home to some of the most elusive species in Africa, including the aardvark, pangolin, brown hyenas, aardwolf, and bat-eared fox. These tricky-to-spot creature sightings are made easier in May thanks to Tswlau’s guides and trackers, who work as a team to read the signs left in the wild, especially the animal tracks. Guests are welcome to get off their private vehicle to join their guide and tracker by crouching in the red Kalahari sand to examine a set of tracks to lead them to the animals. Guests can also participate in wildlife monitoring by assisting with camera trap initiatives like Snapshot Safari Project, which contributes to research animal movements and populations. These specially designed cameras—securely mounted to resist interference from curious wildlife—captures insights into the lives of elusive creatures such as pangolins and honey badgers, while minimizing the disturbance of their natural habitats.
Emerald Bay’s Annual Test of Endurance Each year, Pangkor Laut Resort hosts its annual Chapman’s Challenge. From May 22 to May 24, 2026, they will host the trek once again. Honoring the legacy of Spencer Chapman, whose survival skills allowed him to complete an odyssey through the island’s ancient rainforest over the course of three years, the property hosts its own test of endurance. Participants in The Chapman’s Challenge will compete for premium prizes and a spot on the Leaderboard by embarking on their own journey of tenacity on a 3.8km (2.3 mile) road run around the island, a 2.4km (1.5 mile) trek through a two-million-year-old rainforest, and a 1km (.6 mile) swim in the waters of the shimmering Emerald Bay, finishing at Chapman’s Bar.
Where to go in June
Discover Ubud’s Culinary Soul with Mandapa, a Ritz Carlton Reserve
Considered the spiritual heart of Bali, Ubud also showcases countless culinary delights that embrace the island's rich and fresh flavors. The food landscape explores the raw, natural, and healing properties of local ingredients, including many vegan and vegetarian options. Nestled within Ubud, with the Ayung River flowing peacefully alongside, Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, is a secluded paradise for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Balinese culture. Taking place annually in June, travelers will have the opportunity to attend the to The Ubud Food Festival, celebrating the deliciousness and diversity of Indonesian cuisine. It provides participants with the chance to connect over culinary delights while showcasing the talents of the nation's extraordinary chefs and restaurants. The Ubud Food Festival seamlessly blends Bali's pristine weather over these months with its distinctive cuisine, making it an ideal destination for those in pursuit of delicious traditional food.
Singita Milele: A Front-Row Seat to the Great Migration
As hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebra, and antelope migrate into Kenya’s Maasai Mara in June, Singita Grumeti stands an integral part of the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem—an epicenter of the Great Migration. This phenomenon epitomizes the natural rhythm of life on the plains of Tanzania, with Singita Milele offering a prime vantage point overlooking the Serengeti as the herds approach the Grumeti River.
Offering unsurpassed luxury with a sustainable approach, Singita Milele is an expansive villa boasting the highest levels of personalized service. Designed for families and friends, the villa features five individually designed suites, each inspired by the region’s most iconic species. Guests can reconnect with nature and one another through multiple outdoor spaces, such as a boma, outdoor sala, and infinity pool, while private game drives and bush walks bring guests closer to the wilderness.
South Africa’s National Arts Festival and Luxury Safaris with Stanley Safaris
In June, South Africa hosts the National Arts Festival, a 10-day celebration of culture and creativity that brings together artists from across the country. Held in Makhanda, Eastern Cape, this festival showcases South Africa’s vibrant arts scene, featuring drama, dance, jazz, visual arts, film, and more. It is a lively time for the country, where people celebrate in the streets and open-air markets. As one of the world’s largest and longest-running arts festivals, dating back to 1974, it offers an opportunity for visitors to experience the country’s rich cultural diversity. Those attending the festival can also take advantage of their time in South Africa by embarking on a luxury safari with Stanley Safaris. Founded by local expert Shaun Stanley, the company curates authentic, high-end safari experiences that complement a cultural journey through the region of South Africa. The timing is ideal to explore the renowned reserves bordering Kruger National Park, including Sabi Sands, Timbavati, and Mala Mala. Travelers can enhance their experience by combining these iconic reserves with the fan favorite Tswalu Private Reserve, followed by time in Cape Town to explore the city or enjoying the beaches on the coast of Mozambique, to round out their safari experience.
Dragon Boat Festival with ThirdHome
On June 19, 2026, the Dragon Boat Festival is celebrated all over mainland China with the largest festival occurring in Beijing. The festival commemorates the poet Qu Yuan and warden off evil spirits. The festival starts with a memorial ceremony offering sacrifices to Qu Yuan, followed by dragon boat racing. Boats are decorated to resemble dragons race with a team of people, using oars to reach the finish line first. After visiting the festival, travelers can stay at The Great Wall Paradise Villa, a 8 bedroom, 5 bath home with breathtaking views of the Great Wall that is only available to members of ThirdHome. ThirdHome is a travel club for second homeowners that includes over 30,000 properties in over 100 countries. Thanks to ThirdHome’s ingenious business model that focuses on indirect exchange, members can enjoying savings of up to 90-95% compared to standard booking rates. Built into the mountains at Ban Jie Gou and surrounded by rock formations on three sides, the modern 8,000 square foot home features, a modern open concept. Upon entering the home, guests are greeted by the open floor plan with a fully equipped kitchen with all new appliances, ample counter space and island seating. Outside, the home has a fantastic deck area, with large pool and yoga and meditation area that is perfect for families. Due to elevation of the villa, the Great Wall is visible from the roof deck and upper floors. Guests can access the Great Wall at Jian Kou by hiking up from the village of Xi Zha Zi. This is a particularly unrestored part of the Wall as it is free from tourists that visit the more commercial spots.
The UCI Mountain Bike World Series with Forsthofgut Nature Hotel
From June 11 to 14, 2026, the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series will bring the energy of elite competition to Saalfelden-Leogang, drawing riders and spectators from around the world. Just minutes away, Forsthofgut Nature Hotel provides direct access to the same alpine terrain that hosts the races. After watching the world’s best athletes tackle the trails of Bikepark Leogang, guests can take to the mountains themselves, setting out on e-bikes or mountain bikes available at Forsthofgut to explore the Leoganger Steinberge. Following an active day outdoors, they can unwind at the 61,000 sqft waldSPA, where forest-inspired pools, saunas, and treatment spaces create a sense of calm, or visit waldSPA Health for physiotherapy and performance-focused treatments inspired by the surrounding landscape.
