On this magnificent cultural hiking adventure on the largest island in the Mediterranean we’ll start with a visit to Segesta Archaeological Park en route to the enchanting, mountaintop medieval city of Erice, our first base.  From Erice we’ll set out by van to hike in a lovely coastal nature preserve. We’ll then transfer to the quaint Madonie Mountains, where our base will be a luxury hotel in a former abbey surrounded by olive groves and a vineyard. Here we’ll hike among giant holly trees up to dramatic vistas, and will also visit the port city of Cefalù with its ancient alleyways and dramatic Rocca towering over the town, which we’ll ascend.  We’ll wind up this amazing adventure with a stay in Taormina, the cliff top mediaeval city with views of Mount Etna, the highest volcano in Europe.  We’ll visit the Greek theater and Taormina’s many piazzas and palazzos, and hike to the hilltop village of Castemola.  On the last day we’ll hike on Mount Etna, Sicily’s greatest natural attraction. We hope you will join us on this travel event in Sicily, a world apart! We are offering this guided tour April 22 - 28, 2013 or by special arrangement for your gorup.  Please visit http://www.bredeson.com/sicily for further details.

Most places, you can't run your dogs on the beach. But Santa Barbara, California is just more civilized in many ways. Aside from a miles-long bike and walking path along the shore, the city has a wide dog beach in front of the Four Seasons Biltmore in Montecito. One fine Saturday these guys - from left, Rusty MacBane, Ms. Honey, Scottie and Angus - romped for hours along the shore. For more trails and dog-friendly hikes, check out www.santabarbaracarfree.org.

The Mountain Park Environmental Center Restores the Spirit of the WPA

Built by the WPA in 1939, the Horseshoe Lodge has been renovated as an earth-friendly eco-lodge. Book one of the nature-themed rooms, then go out and explore the 17,000 acres of San Isabel National Forest or the Pueblo Mountain Park.

It's lovely weather for a sleigh ride together

Wintertime at the Lone Mountain Ranch in Big Sky, Montana is the stuff of Christmas carols. Sleigh rides, dreaming by the fire, feasting with loved ones, and 85km of Nordic ski trails.

Ok, maybe that last one isn't a song. Yet.

Still, there's plenty to celebrate at Lone Mountain. Those who prefer downhill skiing can get their fill at nearby Big Sky and Moonlight Basin resorts.

Snowshoers can enjoy a separate 30km of trails all to themselves. Come on a full moon for a guest favorite snowshoeing tour.

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