Destinations

August lets the warm temps linger, so you can go all-out, all day and opt for some R&R in villages with mountain views or tiny towns shaped in every way by the sea.

Chiang Mai is often travelers’ introduction to northern Thailand—a city known for historic temples and lively markets that reward exploring on foot.

At Backroads, we believe people can do hard things, specifically hard hikes. Many guests come seeking a true mountain challenge. Others arrive certain they’ll choose the moderate route each day, only to decide they’re up for testing their limits. However you approach your next trek, our leaders and thoughtful trip design support your ambitions.

Looking for a challenge? Backroads has long been a favorite of riders who love big days in the saddle.

Uruguay has been flying under the radar. That’s exactly why we like it. But it’s time for this small, stable and safe coastal country to have its moment. If you haven’t heard Uruguay talked about yet as a destination, let this be the first of many times—and allow us to introduce our new obsession.

Where to go in a month when things are heating up? How about a cool-cation in Canada among glacially fed lakes and spectacular peaks or trek trails in Alaska to outlooks where whales breach and bears feast? If Europe is calling, there’s no destination quite like Provence, France, during the lavender bloom to capture the essence of a place. Or escape summer altogether and fly to the Southern Hemisphere, maybe to peak-bag Machu Picchu in Peru or scout animals on a safari in South Africa. It’s the perfect month for both.

The New York Times’ annual “52 Places to Go” list is once again talk of the travel world and full of inspiration! It’s no surprise to see 11 destinations included that you can travel to with Backroads.

Travel trends are obviously something we keep tabs on at Backroads, and for 2026, our experts are noticing even more solo travelers signing up for our immersive, active adventures. We see you, solo travelers! And we’re here to help you get out there. Backroads recently launched more than 100 trip dates featuring reduced single supplement fees—and on some trips you’ll pay nothing extra to stay in your own private room.

Our guests talk about these hotels long after the trip ends—and we understand why. These hotels accentuate local traditions, exude old-world charm and simply cannot be matched anywhere else. From a retreat on stilts in the Cambodian countryside to a clifftop Aman sanctuary in Bali, each is a traveler favorite for a reason—serene, beautiful and ready to welcome you back from a day of adventure with that unmistakable "I never want to leave" feeling.

Backroads adventures inspire treasured memories, but not every highlight happens on the trail. Our Italy trips feature hotels that feel like welcoming and elegant homes away from home, spots that tell the stories of Puglia, Tuscany and the Dolomites through delicious details. Here are a few of our favorite places to rest and reset after a day of adventure.