For many retirees, traveling is a popular pastime. Without the pressures of the workplace and the limits of vacation days, retirement is the perfect time to get out and explore. But if you’re stumped on where to go, look no further. A Travel & Leisure writer – Patricia Doherty, a fellow retiree – named nine of her favorite resorts that are ideal for seniors. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing retreat or an active getaway, here are her suggestions:
- Suncadia Resort in Cle Elum, Washington – This scenic resort set in the Cascade Mountains offers a variety of outdoor activities such as golf, hiking, canoeing, arts & crafts, and even axe throwing. There is even a spa to really help you relax and unwind after your action-packed day.
- Big Cedar Lodge in Ridgedale, Missouri – If you’ve ever wanted to experience glamping, this is the place. The Ozark Mountain resort also offers a private log cabin and three magnificent lodges. It boasts all of the outdoor activites you would expect, such as boating, hiking and golf, along with skeet shooting and fitness classes. No exurtion needed to take in the breathtaking waterfalls, simply ride to the top in one of the electric carts.
- Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana – Guests can enjoy a true ranch experience at this log cabin complex located just outside of Yellowstone National Park. Activities include horseback riding through the backcountry, fly-fishing expeditions, or you can spend a leisurely day floating down the river in a tube.
- Mission Point in Mackinac Island, Michigan – This waterfront resort boasts the longest lakeshore on this picturesque island. Guests can golf, swim, stroll around the quaint downtown area (Patricia recommends sampling the famous Mackinac Island fudge), or simply sit back and relax in an Adirondack chair. The entire island has been designated a National Historic Landmark.
- Montage Palmetto Bluff in Bluffton, South Carolina – You will fall in love with low country life while staying in this enormous community that features a nature preserve, two picturesque villages, a marina and golf course.
- Cavallo Point in Sausalito, California – At the footstep of San Francisco’s famous Golden Gate Bridge you will find this magnificent resort. It offers stunning scenery, world class dining, and a variety of experiences such as seaplane and helicopter tours, sunset cruises, and yoga classes.
- Arizona Biltmore in Phoenix, Arizona – Travelers can get a taste of old Hollywood glam when staying in this historic estate located at the base of the Phoenix Mountain Preserve. Outdoor enthusiasts can play golf, tennis, and pickleball or take a dip in one of the resort’s seven swimming pools. To make your stay especially memorable, have the concierge arrange a hot air balloon ride.
- Bungalows Key Largo in Key Largo, Florida – You would never know you are just a short drive from the Miami metropolitan area when you check-in to this all-inclusive, adults-only resort. Guests in this tropical oasis can take part in a variety of activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, and swimming in the protected bay where. If you’re lucky, you might spot manatees and dolphins.
- Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego, California – Thanks to the delightful southern California climate, year-round guests can enjoy golfing at the pristine 18-hole course, relaxing by the pool, or playing lawn games like cornhole, croquet, or oversized Connect Four. There is also a spa offering a full menu of services as well as sunset yoga.
From coast to coast and seaside to the mountains, there are plenty of amazing travel opportunities awaiting you during your retirement. Most of these resorts offer outstanding children’s programs should you want to bring the kids and grandkids along.
Do you have a favorite resort or vacation destination? Message The Seniors Trust on Facebook or Twitter and tell us where you recommend we go.
