The world is a big place and exploring all it has to offer on a girlfriend getaway will forge memories to last a lifetime. So, grab your BFFs and venture near or far to these fun-filled destinations waiting for you.
Pack your bags. Here we go!
Ireland
One of the friendliest countries I’ve visited is Ireland. The people are happy, welcoming and all around fun. Natural beauty is everywhere from the Wild Atlantic Way to the Cliffs of Moher. The famous Blarney Stone is built into the battlements of it’s namesake castle. Legend says those who kiss it will receive “the gift of gab.”
You and your bestie can climb 100 stairs to the Blarney Stone and plant a big smooch on it’s surface!
A less vigorous activity is shopping for crystal in Waterford. And, they ship. A stay in Cong County’s Ashford Castle feels like you’re royalty. While there, don’t miss the opportunity to take a morning walk with Ashford’s Irish Wolfhound dogs.
Irish food is underrated. Most think of fish and chips, potatoes or hardy soda bread when the Emerald Isle’s cuisine comes to mind. While those are delicious, Éire is also a county of fresh seafood, farm to table fare, and artisan sweets. Make sure to sample everything!
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Iceland
Driving Iceland’s Ring Road with your girlfriends is a treat. Three pals and I rented a car in Reykjavik and explored the two-lane, 828 mile drive for nine days. It’s said to be the ultimate Northern Europe road trip.
The famous Blue Lagoon geothermal baths with it’s milky waters is a perfect start to your trip. Relax in the 100 degree lava basin pools. Apply a face mask of silica mud from the bottom and take in the scenery.
Make sure you and your chicas sign up for a Reykjavik food tour. It’s three hours and 30 minutes of tasting delicious Atlantic Wolffish, locally caught char and their famous hot dogs.
While traversing the country’s perimeter you’ll see wild horses run free in the roadside meadows and geese floating among the fjords.
Visit Akureyri Botanical Gardens located only 31 miles from the Arctic Circle. It’s nine acres display 7,000 species of plants.
Glacier Lagoon and Diamond Beach are Mother Nature in all her glory. Waterfalls are the main attraction throughout your drive. Rightly so; they are breathtaking. Thunderous Dettifoss and Skógafoss soar up to 200 feet and span twice as much.
Once back in Reykjavik, I highly recommend snorkeling the Silfra fissure at Thingvelliir National Park before heading home. You’ll swim between the Eurasian and American continental plates! Expert guides suit you up for the chilly tour. Crystal clean water allows you to see into the chasm hundred’s of feet deep.
Toronto and Whistler, Canada
Whether you and your besties are into city life or hitting the slopes, Canada is the destination.
Toronto’s subway and elevated lines make getting around easy. Hop the rail to Kensington Market bohemian neighborhood where indie shops, vintage boutiques, trendy bars, and graffiti art abounds.
Since you’re on a girls trip and footwear is no doubt a favorite accessory, visit Bata Shoe Museum downtown. It’s very interesting!
The curators objective is to show the central role of footwear in shaping the social and cultural life of humanity. The collections nearly 15,000 artifacts span 4,500 years of history.
Another Toronto treat is Casa Loma. Built in 1914 by financier Sir Henry Pellatt, today the castle-like building is open to the public. They host special exhibits pertaining to early Toronto and Canadian history. The gardens are especially nice to meander and relax for awhile.
Should you and your girlfriends crave a trip to the mountains, Whistler, Canada is especially fun in the winter. There’s skiing, snow shoeing, or tobogganing to fill your days.
Don’t miss Scandinava Spa situated outdoors in the forest of Mont-Tremblant. It’s truly magical, especially at night! Guests alternate between cycles of hot, cold and relaxation installations creating utter bliss.
Paris
Paris is one of the best cities on the planet. It’s culture, food, architecture, museums, all of it. To spend time here for a girlfriend getaway will be nothing but fun.
Getting around on the Metro is a breeze. All the arrondissements —neighborhoods — are within a five to 20 minute ride. The city is safe for women to walk around without being bothered.
Shopping is a highlight. Top designers have taken up residence here. But, the flea markets are an absolute joy! Marché aux Puces de Saint Ouen — better know as Clignancourt — in the 18th arrondissement is 17 acres of stalls. It’s the most famous in Paris, and said to be the largest flea market in the world. You may need to purchase an extra suitcase for all the goodies you’ll find.
Bois de Boulogne is a park on the western edge of Paris and spans two times the size of New York’s Central Park. Spend the day there boating on the lakes and dining at one of the two Michelin-Star restaurants — La Grande Cascade and Le Pré Catelan.
Countless other activities in Paris will fill your docket. A city bike tour with local guides weave through Paris landmarks. Also, check out Le Grand Palais’ schedule for exhibits. On my most recent visit, they had a phenomenal Dolce & Gabbana show. La Galerie Dior is so fun! The museum hosts iconic styles from the fashion designer, as well as nouvelle concepts in the industry. Lunch at the adjoining café is a must.
Hike Segments of the California El Camino Real
A more adventurous girlfriend getaway awaits along California’s Royal Road. Spanning 800-miles from San Diego to Sonoma, it’s similar to Europe’s Camino de Santiago, but stateside. Most people hike only segments.
Ten years ago, I hiked the entire trail that connects California’s 21 historic missions. Girlfriends joined me for segments of the hike. It was a wonderful opportunity to spend quality time together.
I recommend gathering a group of besties and hitting a small or large portion of the path.
Central Coast and Northern California areas of the camino are prettier and more rural. You can camp or stay in hotels along the way. I chose the later of which my co-walkers were grateful.
To familiarize yourself with the journey, there is a Facebook page called “California Mission Walkers.” It has a wealth of information from people who have taken the journey. There are also numerous walking guides.
Here are a few resources should you and your friends decide to tackle the El Camino Real:
Whatever trip you choose, it’s the camaraderie of good friends that make it a wonderful experience.
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