Originally posted in Bostonglobe April 21, 2021
Enjoy a local paddle
After a winter — and year — cooped up at home, get out and explore the local waterways. North Shore-based Coast to Coast Paddle, which offers kayak and standup paddleboard rentals in Beverly and Salem, opens its new Woburn location starting this Memorial Day weekend. Rent a single or tandem sit-on-top Ocean Kayak at its Horn Pond kiosk — located by the 500-acre Horn Pond Conservation Area — and explore little coves, a submerged island grove, and the scenic shoreline. The calm waters make this an ideal location for paddlers of all ages and skill levels. Or head to Coast to Coast Paddle’s locations at Independence Park in Beverly or Salem Willows Park in Salem for kayak and SUP rentals, lessons, and tours. Rentals offered daily through Labor Day weekend; book tours and rentals in advance. Rates: $20 (one hour) to $70 (eight hours) for single kayaks and SUPs; $30 (one hour) to $105 (eight hours) for tandem kayaks. 978-969-0151, www.coasttocoastpaddle.com
A full-family getaway
Separation anxiety is real — especially for Fido. You can’t possibly leave your pooch behind on your next vacation, which is why Newport’s Hotel Viking now offers a special package for dog owners. The Press Paws experience lets dogs play at nearby Lucky Dog Resort while their owners get pampered at the hotel’s Spa Fjor. Then dogs and owners reunite for a cozy stay at the pet-friendly Hotel Viking. The package includes chauffeured dog service to and from the Lucky Dog Resort, three hours of supervised play in fenced-in yards, light training (reinforcing manners behavior), chill time on the many luxurious couches and chairs, lots of treats, a brush, and photos of your pup’s fun. The hotel also provides a Puppy Amenity Pack. Meanwhile, you and a guest can each enjoy a 50-minute massage and a 50-minute facial at the Spa Fjör. The downtown Newport hotel has 208 suites. Package rates start at $899 (excluding taxes). 401-847-3300, www.hotelviking.com
THERE
A luxury bikepacking trip
Imagine pedaling off-road through an area known as “Color Country” in southern Utah, where dazzling sunsets meet red terrain and natural wonders abound. The new 190-mile Aquarius Hut System lets riders experience some of the area’s most stunning terrain while sleeping in five luxury huts along the way. Hop on a mountain bike (ebikes are welcome, too) and see Powell Point, Bryce Canyon National Park, Red Canyon, and Escalante National Monument, among other top sights. Then sleep in huts with showers, lighting, solar power for charging devices, fire pits, and a fully stocked kitchen. Huts (made from repurposed shipping containers) are spaced about 30 to 40 miles apart and accommodate up to 14 people. Want someone else to handle the details? Escape Adventures offers guided and self-guided tours July through October. Self-guided trip starts at $889 per person (5 nights), which includes accommodations, all permits and fees, food/provisions (not including beer), and a pillowcase with the route map printed on it — a nice touch; $1,800 for guided tour with all of the above plus vehicle support and guide. aquariustrail.com
