THE WORLD'S LONGEST zipline ride lasts just three minutes. But in that heart-pumping span of time, riders traverse some 9,290 feet, soaring at speeds of up to 99 miles per hour. The setting is not a lush canopy of trees or a deep-blue lake, but the reddish-brown canyons of the Hajar Mountains, the highest range in the United Arab Emirates.
Thrills like this aren't typically front of mind when planning a trip to the U.A.E. But in the mountainous emirate of Ras al-Khaimah, in the country's northeast, the ever-expanding cityscapes of Abu Dhabi and Dubai feel worlds away.
The Hajars, which stretch from Ras al-Khaimah into neighboring Oman, were formed 70 million years ago by the convergence of the Arabian and Eurasian continental plates. The area's rough terrain, sparse tree cover, high temperatures, and lack of water make it a challenging environment for hikers and climbers. But at Jebel Jais-a popular adventure park named for the Hajars' highest peak, which reaches 6,345 feet-you can choose a softer entry into the region.
Denne historien er fra July 2024-utgaven av Travel+Leisure US.
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Denne historien er fra July 2024-utgaven av Travel+Leisure US.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
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EARTHLY DELIGHTS
Come fall, the Italian region of Umbria is a lush, fertile inland oasis. Peter Terzian reaps a bounty of culinary and cultural pleasures.
RUNNER'S HIGH
Some travelers like to move at a faster clip. Alexandra Kleeman crosses the peaks and pastures of Ireland with a group of women who take life in stride.
THE WILDEST ISLE
Compared with its neighbors, the island of Hawaii is bigger, more untamed-and, at times, unpredictable. With her family in tow, Flora Stubbs finds the perfect balance between relaxation and rugged adventure.
A ticket to the top of the world
On a luxurious train tour of Peru, Lake Titicaca and Machu Picchu are the headline acts. But, as Monisha Rajesh discovers, witnessing everyday life from the rails can be every bit as memorable.
Bonjour la France
When an American writer retires in Brittany, she learns how to belong again.
Chills and Thrills
On an Alaskan wilderness adventure, Sarah Manguso and her son learn the elements of survival.
Wheels on Fire
With its blazing fall colors and picturesque villages, the Japanese island of Kyushu was made for cycling.
Down to Earth
Pottery runs deep in Santa Fe, from hallowed Pueblo collections to clay-throwing pubs.
Steel City Shining
A tech boom; a thriving cultural scene; destination dining. Can this be... Pittsburgh?
HOPE SPRINGS ETERNAL
This cute Pennsylvania town is brimming with artistic and cultural energy.
