Go Wild: The Great Outdoors Are Calling Your Name

As we look ahead to 2023, we’re seeing lots of opportunities for travel on the horizon and we could not be more pleased. And so, with that in mind, we’ve come up with a different kind of New Year’s resolution: more epic adventures. Relishing in the great outdoors continues to be one of the biggest travel trends, so if you’re already daydreaming about how to fill up the pages in your brand-new day planner, we’ve got some ideas. Get your heart pumping with a heli-ski outing in Megève, fly like a bird through the forest canopy in Costa Rica, or find your own path with an off-road ride in Los Cabos. No matter where the spirit of discovery takes you, Four Seasons offers exclusive access to the adventure of a lifetime. Here are a few of our favourites:

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Explore wide open spaces in Wyoming

Soaring skies, majestic mountains, verdant valleys: Four Seasons Resort and Residences Jackson Hole offers easy access to the heart of the American West. Set out with a naturalist in search of bears, bison, elk and wolves during a four-hour private wildlife safari in nearby Grand Teton National Park, or get a bird’s-eye view of the Teton mountain range and Snake River during a hot-air balloon ride over Teton Village. The interest in national parks has spiked over the last couple years, and Jackson Hole makes for an excellent home base. Discover a wide variety of year-round experiences and activities, from skiing and snowshoeing in winter to fly-fishing and horseback riding in warmer months – the Resort’s expert concierge team can arrange a complete itinerary tailored to your interests and skill level, no matter the season. Our top pick: a one-of-a-kind immersive excursion to see the elusive grey wolf population of Yellowstone National Park in their natural habitat.

Embrace adventure in Jackson Hole

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Take to the skies and the slopes in Megève

Take your ski trip to new heights – literally – in Megève, where the Ski Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Megève can arrange a heli-ski adventure around the French Alps, chasing optimal snow conditions and heart-pounding adrenaline. Lift off from the Hotel for an all-access pass to the best slopes in the Alps, including pistes in Courchevel, Chamonix and Val Thorens that are reachable only by helicopter. Or stay closer to home – the views and runs of snowy Mount Blanc are just as thrilling as the turns you’ll discover on untouched powder. 

Chase fresh powder in Megève

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Soar through the jungle in Costa Rica

The 21-day Uncharted Discovery itinerary aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet – taking off in November 2023 – offers exclusive access to some of the world’s most awe-inspiring destinations, from the mountaintop ruins of Machu Picchu to the ultra-remote and frozen landscape of the Antarctic Peninsula. One stop you won’t want to miss: the tropical splendour of Costa Rica where the “pura vida” lifestyle reigns supreme. Set atop a hillside overlooking the ocean, Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagyo is a haven for both relaxation and adventure, with so much to see and do right outside your doorstep. One of best ways to take in the lush scenery is to strap yourself in for a thrilling ride through the forest canopy on a zip line circuit. You’ll fly above, over and through the surrounding treeline – Superman-style if you’re so inclined – with bird’s-eye views of the Pacific Ocean just a glance away.

Take the trip of a lifetime on the Private Jet

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Go off-road in Los Cabos

Los Cabos is certainly one of Mexico’s trendiest places to visit, but there are still plenty of roads less travelled to explore. Tucked away on the East Cape of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, Four Seasons Resort and Residences Los Cabos at Costa Palmas is a little more than an hour away from the lively and popular Cabo San Lucas, but it feels like a world apart. Surrounded by desert, mountains and 3.2 kilometres of pristine beaches, the Resort is the ideal home base for adventure: Dive deep into Cabo Pulmo National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that Jacques Cousteau called “the aquarium of the world” – to spot marine life like schooling jacks, mobula rays, sea lions and turtles, or follow a guide to hidden waterfalls during a hike through the region’s beautiful canyons. Looking for a wild ride? Explore the unspoiled coastline, riverbeds and desert dunes during an ATV off-road adventure. Roll through historic towns like El Triunfo and past spring-fed pools in the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, and then make your way back to the Resort to toast your time together during a sunset sail on the Sea of Cortez.

Immerse yourself in adventure in Los Cabos

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Swim with an eagle ray in Hawaii

Dip your toes in one of the world’s largest swimmable aquariums: The recently expanded King’s Pond at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is carved into lava rock, with a sand bottom; it holds 1.8 million gallons of salt water and is home to more than 1,000 tropical fish. The extensive upgrade expanded King’s Pond, adding a new elevated infinity-edge pool, a lounge deck and the Kumu Kai Marine Education Center, where five on-site marine biologists can help introduce you to the island’s diverse ecology. Join them for a fish feeding; learn to snorkel during a lesson among the pool’s more than 60 species, like porcupine pufferfish, yellowtail wrasse and white-spotted damsel; and meet the pool’s most famous inhabitant: Kainalu, a spotted eagle ray who has called King’s Pond home for more than 20 years.  

Dive into an underwater world in Hualalai

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Make a few feathered friends in Hampshire

If you’ve been watching “The Crown” like we have, then the desire to ride through an open field on the outskirts of a grand estate must be calling your name, too. Trade the bright lights and bustling streets of the city for the rolling hills of the countryside at Four Seasons Hotel Hampshire: Set on 500 acres of verdant parkland, the Hotel – a restored 18th-century manor – offers a variety of outdoor activities. Explore the rolling hills on horseback, take aim at a few clay pigeons, or traverse through the trees on a highwire adventure. For a truly British experience, try “the sport of kings”: falconry. Get a hands-on introduction to hawks, falcons and owls from the Hotel’s expert, then learn how to call and command the massive raptors like a royal. 

Live like a royal in Hampshire

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Swim with manta rays in the Maldives

When it comes to tropical getaways, the Maldives is a perennial favourite. At Four Seasons Resort Maldives at Landaa Giraavaru, you’re perfectly positioned to explore some of the world’s most beautiful waters, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve home to a diverse underwater world. Take a deep dive into this fascinating ecosystem with an expert from the Resort’s Marine Discovery Centre and help monitor sea turtles or rebuild endangered coral reefs. Or accompany the Resort’s marine biologists aboard a research vessel, helping to record critical environmental information about the world’s largest known population of manta rays – and improve your free-diving technique as you plunge into the clear blue waters to swim alongside them.  

Explore new ecosystems in Maldives

5 Ways to Work Out Like a World-Class Athlete

No matter how far natural ability takes you, proving you’re the best demands thousands of hours of work and determination. Pro athletes know what it takes to win and have unbeatable insights that can advance fitness programs of any level – which makes them extremely valuable and effective trainers.

During these exclusive Four Seasons experiences, guests are paired with proven, acclaimed athletes for one-on-one training lessons in sports that range from freediving to triathlon. Work on your training regimen in Riyadh or master a unique fighting technique in Koh Samui – here are five ways to see the world (and yourself) through the eyes of a champion.


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The Jack Nicklaus-signature Manele Golf Course is built on lava outcroppings and features three holes perched on cliffs.

Tee off in Lanai

Take your golf game from good to great using the scientific precision of biometric data at the Jack Nicklaus-designed golf course at Sensei Lanai, A Four Seasons Resort.

The five-night program begins with a health consultation with physiologists, nutritionists and mindfulness coaches to provide personalised insight into how you can improve your game. Over the course of the program, a WHOOP wearable device will track your performance metrics with detailed video analysis and instruction.

“The opportunity to work with guests on their golf game really gives us a chance to dive deep through an honest assessment of what their game currently is, what their goals are and how we can get them to that point,” says Coach Scott Ashworth, PGA, Director of Golf. “By working with the practitioners at Sensei and sing technology such as the WHOOP Band, we gain a better understanding of focus areas for well-being to integrate with golf instruction and maximize guest’s enjoyment and potential.”

Improve your game in Lanai


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A team of highly experienced trainers offers a diverse range of skills that can help you make progress on your fitness goals.

Work out with a world-class trainer in Riyadh

It can be tempting to skip leg day while travelling, especially when your personal trainer is hundreds of miles away. If you want to take your fitness goals on the road, join the trainers at Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh at Kingdom Center.

In partnership with 24N – one of the leading personal training programs in the Middle East – the Hotel and 24N trainers offer an intense fitness program, including physiotherapy, personalised training sessions and health coaching to provide nutritional guidance that compliments your workout schedule.

“What differentiates 24N Riyadh is the understanding that everyone is different,” says Luis De Vera, Chief Executive Officer at 24N Riyadh, “We assess, program, re-assess and tailor for personal needs. This ensures guests and members achieve their short-and long-term goals.”

Set your fitness goals in Riyadh

Swim, bike and trek like an Ironman in Kona

Whether you’re a budding triathlete or an elite competitor, there’s one man who can help you get better — six-time Ironman world champion Dave Scott, who is leading five-day clinics at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. In this brand-new triathlon training program, running from June 20–24 and December 5–9, you can smooth your swimming style, get faster at transitions, become more efficient on the bike, and run across the finish line in less time than ever.

I want to help drive athletes, and share the reasons why you can become better. – Dave Scott

“It’s very interactive — I’m not showing them how many muscles I have, but instead how to minimize their time and maximize their workouts.” Scott designed each day’s training session based on his own lessons learned, not only in swimming, biking and running, but also in nutrition, flexibility and injury prevention. “A lot of people think more is better, and I was my own worst enemy in my heyday of racing,” admits Scott, who now offers a more balanced approach to students. “Do what you can do at the moment. Be present. Be mindful. It adds calmness and it adds clarity.”

Prepare for a triathlon in Kona

Master Thailand’s ancient form of fighting

Athletes who commit to mastering Muay Thai – the centuries-old practice of fighting with eight points of contact – will emerge stronger both physically and mentally. They’ll also gain a new appreciation for Thai massage.

Surrounded by breezy palm trees in the Bill Bensley–designed training ring on the Gulf of Thailand, guests participating in the full-day Muay Thai Adventure at Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui begin with lessons from a Muay Thai pro in the seaside ring. Together, students and the master focus on the fist, forearm, knee and shin strikes that earned for this form of kick-boxing the name “the Art of Eight Limbs.” At the Resort’s spa, the recovery is all-out, too: an herbal steam, cool-water leg massage, and full-body massage with essential oils of cloves, ylang-ylang and black pepper.

Train like a warrior in Koh Samui


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The same breathing techniques used by freedivers can help improve your mindfulness practices and help you relax.

Freedive in the French Riviera

Using breathwork to become a world-class athlete may not sound conventional, until you talk technique with a champion freediver. Learn their tips and tricks as part of the new Mindfulness and Wellbeing Program at Grand-Hôtel du Cap-Ferrat, A Four Seasons Hotel.

Led by freediving world champions Arthur Guérin-Boeri and Thomas Bouchard, the workshop takes a holistic view of health, based on the key pillars of exercise, relaxation, nature and wholesome food. Work on your asana and qigong under the Mediterranean sun, then head to the spa for a custom skin analysis and treatment session.

“Breathing, and even holding your breath, is a powerful and accessible way to balance your body and mind,” says Guérin-Boeri. “The connection with water makes the link even stronger. The program is open to everyone who wants to discover a unique relaxation experience, coming straight from our world-ranking expertise.”

After a day spent calming your mind, balance your body with a Michelin-starred meal prepared by Chef Yoric Tièche, made with greens from the Hotel’s garden.

Dive into adventure in Cap-Ferrat

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Your Ticket to Adventure

Meditate as the sun sets in Serengeti, immerse yourself in the rich culture of Mauritius, go back in time at the Taj Mahal and be inspired by community in Bali: Reconnect with yourself and loved ones over shared moments as these captivating destinations unfold on newly added departures of popular Four Seasons Private Jet journeys taking off in 2023 – a record year for the Private Jet, with eight expertly curated itineraries slated to help Four Seasons guests seamlessly explore the world.

Plan your Private Jet Journey

African Wonders takes guests on a 13-day family-friendly adventure to seven destinations, while Timeless Encounters, a 24-day journey around the globe, stops at nine destinations. Over 23 days, discover International Intrigue in nine destinations. Experience the legendary wonders of the world like never before during the 24-day Ancient Explorer trip, or set off on a captivating voyage through the Southern hemisphere on the 21-day Uncharted Discovery expedition. World of Adventures highlights the world’s natural beauty during rare experiences on four continents. Each trip – added to the slate of 2023 itineraries by popular demand – offers unique opportunities to get up close with history, nature and culture at some of the world’s most intriguing locales. The experts at Four Seasons have curated itineraries that take you on exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, after-hours visits and cultural exploration – once-in-a-lifetime experiences sure to send you home inspired by your global adventures.

Along the way, you’ll forge new friendships with your fellow travellers as you see the world in a new light. Toast your time together with Champagne as you lift off for a new destination, or gather backstage in the Private Jet’s lounge area – the new custom-outfitted Airbus A321LRneo, set to take flight in 2022, has been designed with your comfort in mind. Settle in to one of just 48 handcrafted seats, constructed with soft Italian leather and offering 6.5 feet (2 metres) of personal space to lie fully flat, or stretch out with the addition of a plush ottoman. Travel in luxury with Four Seasons team members – including a dedicated on-board physician, on-board concierge and executive chef – to handle all the details, leaving you free to enjoy every moment of your journey.

African Wonders: December 28, 2022 – January 9, 2023 (wait list only) & August 1 – 13, 2023

Explore seven far-flung destinations over 13 remarkable days with loved ones – majestic wildlife experiences, ancient historical treasures and breathtaking natural wonders that will awe travellers of all ages. This family-friendly journey begins on August 1 in Athens, where guests can step back in time during visits to ancient sites like the Acropolis and the Parthenon and soak up the sun on the glamorous Athens Riviera. The trip through history continues in Egypt with a guided tour of the Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the enigmatic Sphinx. From there, it’s off to the Serengeti, where you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the vast savannah during a hot-air balloon ride, then Mauritius, where you can explore the island’s protected lagoons by kayak or on a world-class snorkelling expedition. Rwanda, or the “Land of a Thousand Hills,” comes next and includes a trek through Volcanoes National Park in search of mountain gorillas and endangered golden monkeys. At Victoria Falls in Zambia, you’ll take in the world’s largest waterfall – one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Your African journey concludes in dynamic Johannesburg, South Africa’s historic and cultural hub.

International Intrigue: March 2 – 26, 2023 (wait list only)

Discover a variety of destinations – remote islands, vibrant cities, vast grasslands – in one remarkable journey. Over 23 days, you’ll visit nine destinations, diving deeply into local cultures and landscapes to gain a unique perspective on the world around you.

Your journey begins March 3 in Seattle with a welcome dinner for you and your fellow travellers, set beneath the stunning glass sculptures of famed artist Dale Chihuly. Next, you’re off to Kyoto to learn the secrets of samurai sword fighting and a visit to ancient temples and shrines. Get an authentic taste of Vietnam during a festive market dinner in Hoi An, featuring the city’s street food specialities. Live like a castaway on the Maldivian island of Kuda Huraa, a private coral island in the middle of the Indian Ocean – snorkel to colourful reefs or lounge on pristine sand. Encounter a different kind of paradise in the heart of the Serengeti, where you’ll discover a sanctuary where animals roam free. Travel back in time in Marrakech, where you can explore the ancient medina and uncover gilded treasures in a private souk excursion. From there, it’s off to the romantic city of Budapest – often called Central Europe’s most beautiful city. Sample strudel, browse its vibrant art and soak up the city’s laid-back café culture – or go deeper with a private guided tour of a medieval crypt at the storied Matthias Church. End this once-in-a-lifetime journey in Paris, where you can reflect on your experiences and raise a glass to your time together during a farewell dinner.

Timeless Encounters: March 26 – April 18, 2023
& April 17 – May 10, 2023

Craving even more time away with loved ones? Expand your horizons on the Timeless Encounters journey. Starting April 17, you’ll spend 24 days winging your way to nine destinations across the globe.

Start in Hawaii, on Oahu’s sun-soaked western coast, with a hike to a remote nature reserve or a cruise along an oceanside mountain range, and celebrate the beginning of your journey with a traditional Hawaiian luau. Then it’s off to Bora Bora, the pearl of the Pacific, where you can swim with manta rays and try a submarine scooter. Next up: Sydney, a city that blends outdoor adventure and a vibrant food scene with iconic landmarks like the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Then set off to discover the cultural heart of Bali – soul-stirring temples, renowned cultural traditions and a rich heritage of spirituality.

The halfway mark of your journey is the jungles of Chiang Mai, where you can learn the secrets of Thai cuisine in a cooking lesson from a Four Seasons chef, ride a tuk-tuk to the ancient temple of Chedi Luang and explore the bustling stalls of Warorot Market. Or opt for a two-night stay in the Four Seasons luxury tented camp in the famed Golden Triangle, in the heart of a tranquil bamboo forest. You’ll rejoin the group for a one-day stop to explore the Taj Mahal – flying by private jet offers the exclusive opportunity to touch down in Agra itself for a guided tour of this majestic monument. Sip in-flight cocktails as you discuss this incomparable experience with your fellow travellers on the way to Dubai, where you’ll arrive just in time for a sunset dinner or a thrilling 4×4 ride through the golden dunes. In Florence, enjoy access after hours to a private showing of Michelangelo’s David and the Piazza del Duomo, and lunch at a winery in the Tuscan countryside. End your around-the-world adventure in the historic centre of London with a celebratory group dinner – or extend your stay with guided tours of the city’s most beloved landmarks or a trip down the River Thames aboard a steamboat.

By popular demand, another Timeless Encounters journey has been added to the roster of 2023 trips. Departing on March 26, this 24-day includes stops in Kona for an awe-inspiring helicopter tour of the coastline and swim in sparkling waterfall pools and in Prague, where you’ll sip Champagne as you enjoy a private string quartet concert of Mozart favourites at the Estates Theatre, where the composer himself once performed.

Ancient Explorer: August 16 – September 8, 2023

Massive rock statues on Easter Island, gilded temples in Bangkok, the Pyramids of Giza: The ancient world is yours to explore on when the Four Seasons Private Jet lifts off on August 16 for the Ancient Explorer journey. Over the next 24 days, you’ll visit 10 captivating destinations – and experience the legendary wonders of the world like never before.

Embark on your journey around the world in Miami, with a welcome dinner for you and your fellow travellers. Your next stop: Mexico City and a hot air balloon ride over Teotihuacan to see some of the best-preserved pyramids from Mesoamerican civilizations. Then it’s off to remote, mysterious Easter Island, home to massive moai statues sculpted to honour the ancestors off the native Rapa Nui people. After watching the sun rise over the giant stones, head to Bora Bora for a swim with manta rays in the turquoise blue waters of the island’s lagoons. The underwater exploration continues at two of Australia’s natural wonders: the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Then it’s back to dry land in Bangkok, where you can visit the city’s gilded temples and the colossal golden statue of Buddha at Wat Pho. In the heart of the Jordanian desert, follow a Four Seasons guide to the iconic Lost City of Petra. The Private Jet also stops in Egypt for a day to explore the legendary Pyramids of Giza, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. As the trip winds down, soak up the medieval architecture and authentic flavours of Sicilian life in Taormina, or hike Mount Etna, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The journey concludes in Madrid – flamenco dancing, world-class art museums and a tapas-style meal with your newfound friends.

World of Adventures: September 8 – October 1, 2023

Nine stops. Eight countries. Four continents. Twenty-four unforgettable days. The World of Adventures itinerary makes the most of every moment, from observing rare mountain gorillas in Rwanda to the bright sights, sounds and flavours of Marrakech. The journey begins September 8 in with a welcome dinner in Seattle, and then you’re off to Kyoto. Explore sacred temples and shrines, admire modern Japanese landscaping during a private visit to Tairyu-Sanso Garden – usually closed to the public – and learn the secrets of samurai sword fighting, drawing posing and swinging your katana like an ancient Japanese warrior. Immerse yourself in the deep spirituality of Bali’s culture, where you can experience a traditional water purification ritual, performed by a Balinese priest at Tirta Empul to cleanse mind, body and spirit. Your time in a tropical paradise continues in Seychelles, surrounded by white sand and sparkling blue waters. Join a Four Seasons chef for a cooking class covering the flavours of ingredients of Creole cuisine, or centre yourself in the moment with sunset yoga and meditation overlooking the ocean. Trade the blue seas for green jungles in Rwanda: Hike up the forested slopes of the Virunga Mountains in search of rare mountain gorillas and watch them interact with one another in their natural habitat. Your next stop? A full sensory experience in Marrakechfor an authentic taste of the Red City, board a horse-drawn carriage headed to the lively Jemaa el Fna, a vibrant square famous for its snake charmers, entertainers, souks and food stalls. Next, feel the rhythm of Colombia during a private salsa lesson, or browse the trendy shops in Bogotá and explore the city’s historic landmarks. Don’t miss the chance to sip the country’s most famous product while learning about its rich history during a visit to a family-run coffee farm. The penultimate stop on your journey can’t be reached aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet. Instead, set sail on a private ship for a three-day expedition to the Galápagos Islands. Watch sea lions frolic on the beach, cruise along dramatic cliffs, and be on the lookout for green sea turtles, penguins and flamingosthe Galápagos offer landscapes and wildlife found nowhere else on earth. Say farewell to your fellow travellers in Miami as you toast your experiences over a dinner infused with the Central and South American flavours that make the city so unique.  

Uncharted Discovery:
November 30 – December 20, 2023

See the Southern hemisphere from a new perspective aboard the Four Seasons Private Jet, with stops from the Americas to Antarctica. The adventure begins on Nov. 30 in New Orleans; over the next 21 days, you’ll visit a total of 7 exciting destinations. Embrace the pura vida lifestyle in Costa Rica as you soar through the forest canopy on a zip line tour, taste premium Latin American chocolate and rum during a demonstration with local experts, and gaze in wonder at the stars during an exclusive stargazing party. Board a private train with an expert guide and discover the legendary archaeological treasures of Machu Picchu. Then it’s off to Buenos Aires, the “Paris of South America,” for private tango lessons, a backstage tour of the famed Teatro Colón, and a day trip to the awe-inspiring Iguazú Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Next, you’ll set off for Antarctica via a private luxury polar ship for four unforgettable nights filled with ultra-remote landscapes, remarkable wildlife and breathtaking views. After this thrilling expedition, catch your breath with several days in Bogotá – take a guided tour of the city’s famed street art, join a renowned chef for a culinary demonstration, and enjoy a masterful performance by the Bogotá Philharmonic during a private concert. End your adventure in the Bahamas and a day lounging on pristine white sand, a soothing spa treatment, and a farewell dinner with your fellow travellers.

Looking to travel sooner? A few seats remain on several 2022 itineraries: Ancient Explorers offers departures in September 2022 and October 2022, while Uncharted Discovery has openings on its December 2022 voyage.

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Where will the spirit of adventure take you on the Four Seasons Private Jet?

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Ski Patrol: Surprising Places
to Find Fresh Powder

Most skiers are familiar with the popular slopes, like those in Whistler, Vail and Chamonix. But what about ski runs in Greece, Dubai or even Hawaii? Point your planks towards these one-of-a-kind alpine adventures in unexpected destinations.

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Reach new heights in Morocco

Guests at Four Seasons Resort Marrakech can catch a glimpse of snow-capped peaks from their private terrace – the Atlas Mountains are just 90 minutes from the Resort. They’ll want to get closer to see the skiers who flock to the mountain village of Oukaïmeden, Africa’s highest ski spot, sitting at 3,271 metres (10,722 feet) and offering 10 kilometres of fresh powder. The season typically runs from late December through March, says Jihane Barehmi, the Resort’s guest services manager, but the high elevation provides the best conditions in January and February. Seven lifts will carry you to slopes fit for all ability levels, from a beginner’s course to the most difficult runs, with hard off-piste ice in some sections. After a day on the slopes, Barehmi recommends a stop at Chez JuJu to refortify with traditional French comfort food like cassoulet with sausages and tartiflette with smoked bacon and reblochon – also available in vegetarian version, or halal with smoked beef ham – served in a casual setting overlooking the village. Upon your return to the Resort, head straight to the Spa for a massage or steam in the authentic Moroccan hammam.

Find new adventures in Marrakech

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Unexpected adventure in Dubai

The name “Dubai” conjures images of a busy city of ultra-modern skyscrapers surrounded by desert – snow sports like skiing and tubing are not the first thing to come to mind. Those in the know, however, point their skis to Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski centre in the Middle East – just 15 minutes from both Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre and Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach. The snow park’s indoor mountain, 85 metres high – equivalent to a 25-storey building – has five slopes of varying steepness and difficulty for skiers of all ages and abilities, plus top instructors on hand to offer coaching. With 6,000 metric tons of real snow, there are plenty of fluffy flakes for sledding, tubing and building giant snowballs, plus an indoor ice cave to explore. The temperature is kept at a chilly minus 4 degrees C (25 F), but a stop at one of the park’s cafés for hot chocolate will create a nice contrast. And be sure to say hello to some of Dubai’s most unusual inhabitants: a colony of king and gentoo penguins. Watch them waddle around the snow park, and learn how the species survives in some of the coldest conditions on Earth. You can get an up-close look at the birds during an encounter or training session.

Explore Dubai with Four Seasons

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Slopes and sea in Sicily

The Dolomites aren’t Italy’s only eminent peaks. Mount Etna has its own claim to fame: It’s Europe’s highest active volcano, with a summit at nearly 3,320 metres. From November to early April it’s also a surprising ski destination, a place to slalom down a volcano while enjoying stunning views of the sea. At the alpine and downhill slopes at Rifiugio Sapienza and Piano Provenzana – just a short drive from the new San Domenico Palace, Taormina, a Four Seasons Hotel – the crowds tend to be small and there is plenty of backcountry to explore. When you’re not on the slopes, savour a wine tasting or meal at Dai Pennisi, a local favourite; schedule a day of pampering at the Hotel’s Botanica Spa; or explore the Hotel’s history – once a convent, the Hotel is a prime example of ancient architecture and rich character, with traditional cloisters, choir stalls and restored frescos on display.

Plan your Sicilian adventure

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Ideal conditions in Hawaii

Swap your surfboard for skis during a winter visit to Hawaii: “During those special times of year when we are blessed with snow-kissed peaks on Mauna Kea, everyone takes an opportunity to rush to the summit to enjoy a snow day in Hawaii,” says Chenin Mathews, Chef Concierge at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai. It isn’t always easy going, though – there’s no ski lift to the top of the mountain. “You’ll drive your four-by-four up about 14,000 feet, and then hike on foot as far as you can before shredding your own path down the mountain,” Mathews says. “Some take their snowboard or skis, but locals grab a boogie board from the ABC store to sled.” Hawaiian ski afficionados call the snow that covers Mauna Kea “pineapple snow,” a play on corn snow – soft and forgiving but not too wet and slushy, beloved by springtime skiers in other locales. Depending on the conditions, the mountain offers 2,500-foot to 4,500-foot vertical runs, and the snowpack is usually best January through March. But the view is always beautiful: On a clear day, you can see the Big Island’s other massive volcano, Mauna Loa, and Maui’s Haleakala, with the sparkling sea stretching for miles. Celebrate your Hawaiian snow day with an après-ski cocktail – Mathews recommends a mai tai at one of the island’s newest restaurants, Kuleana Rum Shack. “Home-grown on the Big Island, the rum is made from 40 heirloom varieties of sugar cane and is distilled into exceptionally flavourful rum,” she says.

Explore Hualalai with Four Seasons

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An elevated approach in Athens

When summer ends on the sun-kissed Athens Riviera, the Concierge at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens directs guests to the nearby mountains, home to two of Greece’s top skiing destinations. Chef Concierge George Vournazos says locals flock to Mount Parnassos, just a few hours by car from the Hotel, for its extensive season – runs are open from December to early May – and its scenery. With ski lifts as high as 2,260 metres, skiers enjoy views from the Gulf of Corinth to the Gulf of Euboea. In search of even higher elevation? Head to Kalavrita, in the Peloponnese, for the biggest verticals in Greece, plus snowboarding, paragliding and snowmobiling from December through April. “The surrounding villages offer a more traditional feel, and, most importantly, it’s not as crowded” as Parnassos, Vournazos says. “It’s a true skiing destination for enthusiasts who want first tracks rather than a place to be seen.” After a day chasing fresh powder, head straight to the Spa upon your return to the Hotel for an Entsi Massage: This muscle-releasing treatment uses sage and eucalyptus oils applied by your masseuse’s elbows and forearms “to stimulate deeper tissue and relieve tension – especially for the legs and low back area – to help you recover from skiing,” Vournazos says.

Find adventure in Athens

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A snow day in Beijing

Beijing may only get about six days of snowfall each year, but skiers there make the most of them – and the city’s cold winter climate means even the lightest flurries cover the ground for weeks. The best chance of snow in Beijing is from late November till late February, and at the first sign of flakes Beijing’s skiers head for the slopes. One of the largest ski spots in the country is Nanshan Ski Village, about an hour from Four Seasons Hotel Beijing, with 5 kilometres of slopes accessed by 13 lifts, plus an advanced mogul trail. Its snowboard park is the largest in China and has quickly become a favourite training spot of China’s top snowboarders. If the mood strikes, bypass your skis in favour of a day of pampering at the Hotel’s Spa. The Calming Restoration Ritual will help you focus on being in the moment, calming mind and body. Start with a fragrant bath scented with lavender, chamomile and jasmine essential oils, and then a warm, aromatic slow-movement massage will ease you into a restful state.

Explore Beijing experiences

Table Setting: Private Dining Experiences That Elevate Your Meal

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or making memories with family and friends, sharing a meal is a powerful way to connect. Elevate the experience with a surprising setting: Take in a dramatic sunset with a lantern-lit family dinner on the beach in Athens, or enjoy a romantic dinner for two in a 15th-century palazzo – once the home of Leonardo da Vinci – boasting up-close views of the Duomo in Florence. Here, we share some of the Four Seasons dining experiences that will make your meal one to remember.

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A private oasis in Athens

Discover a chic seaside paradise at Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens: Soak up the warm sun and blue waters as you stroll on golden sand, and then feast on fresh seafood at the new Pelagos restaurant – named after the Greek word for “ocean.” For a memorable taste of the sun-kissed glamour of the Athens Riviera, allow the Hotel team to arrange dinner for you and your guests at Bungalows Beach, a private, lantern-lit terrace right on the water. After a day spent exploring the pine-clad peninsula or nearby historic landmarks like the Acropolis, gather with friends to sip cocktails as you watch the sun set over the glimmering Saronic Gulf and enjoy a lavish dinner prepared by a dedicated chef.

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River views in Tokyo

Yakatabune – Japanese pleasure boats – are a familiar sight on Tokyo’s Sumida River. Popular among wealthy merchants, feudal lords and samurai warriors during the Heian era, today the small wooden ships can be identified by their red lanterns as they cruise past the city’s skyscrapers and temples. For a different perspective on the city’s skyline, set sail from Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi on a private yakatabune. Join friends and family at a traditional low-slung table for a kaiseki (multi-course) dinner and inventive cocktails as city lights twinkle on the shore. In spring, you’ll also have an unobstructed view of the sea of pink cherry blossoms lining the riverbanks.

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A hidden table in Punta Mita

There are plenty of places to sit down with friends and family for a private meal at Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, Mexico, from a secluded beach spot surrounded by tropical trees to a quiet palapa set amid lush vegetation. For a dramatic setting, head to “The Rock”: Perched above the Pacific, this one-of-a-kind cliffside venue is ideal for intimate celebrations and offers uninterrupted sunset views and unrivalled stargazing. Our top pick for complete privacy? The Resort’s exclusive Iku Garden. Its hidden entrance opens onto a lawn tucked away on the roof of Bahia restaurant. Watch the sun set over the Pacific, and then toast your time together in this enchanting space.

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Artful scenery in Florence

In 1367, Italian architects Neri di Fioravante and Filippo Brunelleschi helped usher in the Italian Renaissance with their designs for the Cattedrale di Santa Maria del Fiore – now better known as Il Duomo – envisioning a large masonry dome atop without traditional Gothic buttresses. Today, this iconic landmark dominates the Florentine skyline, rising over the city. You’ll be perfectly positioned to reflect on its magnificence during dinner in a private 15th-century palazzo just a few blocks away, arranged by the Concierge at Four Seasons Hotel Firenze. You’ll get exclusive access to the historic residence, which was designed by sculptor and architect Giuliano da Sangallo and was once the home of Leonardo da Vinci – it’s rumoured that the palazzo is where he painted the Mona Lisa. Sip cocktails while watching the sun set from the palazzo’s fourth floor, and take in panoramic views from the penthouse terrace – including an up-close look at the Duomo’s architectural details, plus glimpses of the Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Repubblica – before sitting down to a customized four-course meal prepared and served by your dedicated Hotel chef and personal butler.

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Dinner under the stars in Hualalai

Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner for to enjoy with someone special or a meal for the whole family, the Dinner Under the Stars program at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai serves up memorable settings and customizable menus for an experience that’s uniquely your own. Dine on fresh seafood with your toes in the sand at Palm Grove Beach, or sip cocktails surrounded by plumeria, hibiscus and monkey-pod trees on the Garden Lawn – you’ll feel like you’ve stumbled on a secret garden with a table set just for you.

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