25 Dream June Vacation Ideas

© Courtesy of Don Landwehrle - Fotolia.com

Take advantage of longer days and warmer weather to plan a quick vacation to a resort nearby, or go on a longer trip to Asia, the Pacific or Europe. Take a dip in the outdoor hot springs in Iceland, play scenic golf, go fishing surrounded by wilderness or visit a major city to explore its attractions, museums and restaurants. Gardens are especially beautiful in June, letting you admire colorful blooms and listen to birds while you stroll past sculptures and bridges. If you are looking for June vacation ideas from a major city, browse weekend ideas from New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, Atlanta, San Diego, Los Angeles, Chicago and other cities.

© The Nonantum Resort

For more than 100 years, the Nonantum Resort has been the traditional vacation spot for generations of families. Built originally as a waterfront inn, it offered unprecedented comfort and hospitality that made guests feel like they belonged. Today, you can stay in the Carriage House, a part of the original inn that has been renovated and modernized but still retains its original charm and a sense of history.

Whether you stay in the Carriage House or the more modern Portside House with its spectacular water views, you will enjoy the perfect balance between the history, elegance, and modern facilities. The romance of the Nonantum Resort extends to the quaint, historic Kennebunkport village with its galleries, antique stores, and souvenir shops. Let the Nonantum Resort be your base for exploring the spectacularly beautiful area while taking a whale watching trip, a kayaking adventure, or a long hike along The Parson’s Way.

95 Ocean Ave, Kennebunkport, ME 04046, Phone: 207-967-4050

© Fair Hills Resort

There is a good reason why families keep returning to the Fair Hills Resort summer after summer: it is a family resort that takes all the worries out of your hands. Located just outside Detroit Lakes, Minnesota between Pelican Lake and Wildflower Golf Course and surrounded by dense forest, Fair Hills Resort offers a perfect vacation for every family member.

With rustic looking but completely modern cabins in the woods to make everyone comfortable, a maid to clean the mess, and three spectacular meals a day, mom and dad can focus on enjoying themselves. They can have fun playing golf, laying by the pool or doing absolutely nothing while the kids compete in building sand castles, taking pony rides, or going on a kids’ cruise.

Fair Hills Resort is the place where old friends meet every summer to spend a few weeks, or at least a weekend, relaxing, reminiscing, or complaining about how much the kids have grown. It is the place that makes you feel like you are right at home. The resort is open from May to September.

24270 Co Hwy 20, Detroit Lakes, MN 56501, Phone: 800-323-2849

© Hotel Teatro

Hotel Teatro enjoys a central location in downtown Denver near the city’s top attractions. The stylish boutique hotel offers a selection of rooms and suites decorated in contemporary style with plush amenities such as oversized soaking bathtubs, Frette robes, rain showers and docking stations.

After a day of exploring the city sights, request an in-room spa treatment or work out at the fitness center which offers cardio machines and weights. The Nickel restaurant at Hotel Teatro is popular with theater goers, serving rustic dishes prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The Nickel is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and offers room service throughout the day. Rooms start at $287 per night. Read more

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© Chateau Eza

Chateau Eza is a castle fit for royalty, which is exactly what it used to be; it is the former residence of a Swedish Prince.

Located on the enchanting Cote d’Azur, the castle has 12 lavish rooms decorated in traditional décor, most of which have private balconies and terraces.

The intimate rooms are matched with personalized service that always puts the guest first.

The hotel itself is magnificent and full of history; it’s built on the side of the ancient rock walls of Eze.

Guests can enjoy spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and the French Riviera.

Chateau Eza, Rue de la Pise, F-06360, France, +33-0-4-93-41-12-24

© Hotel Murano

Nestled in the heart of Tacoma in Washington State, Hotel Murano is a stylish and sophisticated hotel that offers an ideal base from which to explore the city, which is the epicenter of the American glass movement. Tastefully designed in a contemporary style, guest suites at Hotel Murano boast plush décor, alluring artwork, spacious en-suite bathrooms with deluxe amenities and stylish workspaces with complimentary wireless Internet, docking stations and laptop connections. Retreat into the sanctuary of the Savi Spa to enjoy an array of body treatments and massages, or take a stroll through the Salon Miro, which features local artists’ work. The stylish splendour of the hotel is carried through to the table where you will experience sublime cuisine in sumptuous surroundings. Indulge in delicious and innovative culinary delights from Bite where Executive Chef Matt Stickle is an artist in his own right, or enjoy an appetizer and cocktail before heading out in the evening.

 

Explore the amazing coast of Puglia in Southern Italy while sampling some of the best food and wine in the region. We can think of few better ways to combine fitness and fantastic food. Zephyr Adventures is offering 6-day tours which include biking along the Italian coast and through the countryside past scenic lakes, olive groves, ancient ruins, caves and charming towns. Puglia is famous for its olive trees and agriculture, including tomatoes, oranges and artichokes. The trip includes a visit to a local olive oil mill, tour of a sheep farm with cheese tasting, and a cooking class at an Italian restaurant.

Puglia produces more wine than any other region in Italy and there is plenty of opportunity for wine tasting on the trip. The itinerary includes stops in several towns: circular-shaped Locorotondo, the white-washed villages of Cisternino and Ostuni, the seaside towns of Monopoli and Polignano a Mare, and Conversano with its ancient castle. Accommodations include scenic hotels and a restored farmhouse with a pool. The trip takes place from September 29 through October 4, 2014 and costs $2,500. There are other great adventures to choose from, including a wine tour in Oregon, bike trip in Provence and a walking vacation in Sonoma. The company has been offering active tours for 17 years in Europe and North America.

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The Ocean Lodge is an scenic beach resort on the Oregon coast. Spend your romantic weekend getaway on Sandy Cannon Beach which fronts the hotel and has views of the famous Haystack Rock. >The resort offers fun amenities such as a free library of movies, bocce ball, cards and other games. Guests can even bring their pet along on their trip. You can enjoy the cookie jar with homemade cookies in the lobby 24 hrs a day. All guest accommodations have fireplaces and wireless Internet access. Some have Jacuzzi tubs, ideal for a romantic getaway. Guests can dine at the lodge restaurant or in the village which is home to charming cafes. Room rates range from $169 (non-view) to $269 (ocean front) per night (888-777-4047, 503-436-2241).

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Coeur d'Alene is one of the best lakeside getaways in the U.S., overlooking Lake Coeur d'Alene in northern Idaho, at the foothills of the Bitterroot Mountains. The resort offers first-class service and many things to do, including championship golf, European spa, boating, fishing, sailing and tennis. The resort's golf course is unique in design, featuring scenic views from all 18 holes and the famous floating green. The floating green measures 15,000 square feet in size, weighs 5 million pounds, and is computer operated. Greens fees start at $220, including water taxi to the course. Players warm up at the over the water driving range using floating golf balls. The Floating Green Golf Academy offers two- and three-day programs to help you improve your game.

The spa has seven treatment rooms, a waterfront meditation room and a full service salon. Treatments include message therapy, reflexology, herbal wraps and customized facials.

The property is located in northern Idaho 30 miles east of Spokane, Washington and 100 miles south of the Canadian border. The nearest airport is Spokane International, 40 minutes from the hotel. (800-688-5253, 208-765-4000). Visit during the warmer months to play golf, from around Memorial Day through Labor Day.

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© Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa

Keltic Lodge Resort and Spa in Nova Scotia, Canada is the perfect outdoor getaway for golfer and spa lovers, complete with a heated outdoor pool, Atlantic Ocean views and a choice of room layouts. The Kid's recreation center will make your family vacation fun and educational with a host of daily activities, parties and movies. There is also a Kids Eat Free program to help you save on your trip. Activities and adventures include fishing, boat adventures, guided hikes and whale watching. Purple Thistle Dining Room serves award-wining Maritime cuisine with scenic ocean views. The casual Atlantic Restaurant is the place to go for lively entertainment. Families and couples can enjoy a pub-style menu and dancing at the Highland Sitting Room.

32 rooms and two suites in the Main Lodge feature stylish decor, hardwood floors and scenic views. The two-bedroom suites offer incredible views of the water, as well as spacious living and dining rooms, perfect for a luxury honeymoon. If you plan to spend a lot of time at the AVEDA concept spa, book one of the rooms at the Inn at Keltic which is located near the spa and the Highlands Links Golf Course. Families can book one of the two- or four-bedroom pet-friendly cottages which offer incredible ocean views, plenty of privacy, beautiful verandas and fireplaces.

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During the summer months, the 110-foot Ocean Explorer offers wilderness sport fishing itineraries that allow adventurous vacationers to fish in the most secluded parts of British Columbia, Canada. Four skiffs and a 26-foot halibut fishing zodiac are used to approach hidden fishing areas. The Inside Passage offers salmon fishing, halibut, jumbo prawns, and red snapper. The crew of the boat guarantees a catch, or the next trip is free. Other popular activities include kayaking, beach combing and hiking. Wildlife is incredible, including bald eagles, whales, dolphins and sea lions.

The ship has nine private staterooms, a lounge, gourmet restaurant and a galley. Go from June through September between Port Hardy and Prince Rupert. Five-day sport packages starting at $3,495 CDN, including round-trip airfare from Vancouver, single stateroom accommodation, all meals, guides, fishing gear and bait. If you are flexible with your travel plans, be sure to ask about last minute specials. For more information and reservations, contact Adventure West Resorts at 877-3-GO-WEST.

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© Palacio Belmonte

Featuring timeless grace, elegant appeal and a touch of magic, the Palácio Belmonte takes luxury and opulence to new heights. Nestled within the fortress walls of the medieval Castelo São Jorge São with breathtaking views over the tiled roofs of old Lisbon, this grand palace promises to delight the senses in every way. Opulence embraces you in this intimate 11-suite palace, where sensational suites, including a remarkable three-level tower room that boasts a modern Moorish aesthetic, feature romantic silk-draped beds, spacious sunken black marble baths, original frescoes, and spectacular vistas of the Tagus river. The hotel is a treasure-trove of invaluable memorabilia, with a story behind every pillar and a storied celebration under every awning. Elegant drawing rooms are adorned with original 18th-century ‘azulejo’ tiles and period oil-paintings, a lavishly decorated Governor’s Room and Library, and beautiful Mediterranean gardens surround an orange tree-shaded black marble swimming pool. Sumptuous breakfast is served in the comfort of your suite and Café Belmonte’s ancient arches and iron walls make the perfect spot to sip pastéis de nata in the warm Lisbon sunshine and watch the world go by.

 

Only once a year London visitors can view some of the most beautiful private gardens in the residential areas of the town. The Open Garden Squares Weekend usually takes place in the second weekend in June. Organized by the Historic Parks & Gardens Trust and English Heritage, this is the only occasion when private gardens are accessible to the public. Many of the participating gardens have live music and serve snacks and teas. To see the list of participating gardens, visit opensquares.org. The web site has a description of each garden. You can also look up the activities planned by the participating gardens. Admission fee of £12 gives you access to all the participating gardens. You can buy the pass at the first garden on your list or buy them ahead of time and save £2.

 

If you are considering river cruising in Europe, take a look at the itineraries offered by AmaWaterways' AmaCerto. The 164-passenger vessel offers unique itineraries and features such as a glass elevator, exclusive twin balconies, a sun deck and a pool with a swim-up bar. Guests can choose from multiple dining venues serving delicious Chaine des Rotisseurs cuisine. Complimentary bicycles are provided on board to let you enjoy your destination to the fullest.

Stay fit on your trip by working out at the fitness center. The beauty salon can help you get ready for a special dinner. Past itineraries have includes a 9-day Tulip Time cruise to Amsterdam, the Romantic Danube sailing, a Black Sea Voyage, a Christmas Voyage, and more. Several itineraries incorporate music, others let you explore local markets. Cruises vary from 9- to 23-days in length. Rates start at $2,099 per person (for a 9-day cruise).

© BridgeClimb

This unique adventure will take you 134 meters above sea level to experience the most spectacular day or night views of the Sydney Harbor from the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You will be able to see and photograph the famous Sydney Opera House which has been inspiring architects all over the world. he climb can be challenging and is clearly not intended for anyone with a fear of heights. All climbers wear a specially designed BridgeSuit™, harness and communications equipment and are attached to a static line. The adventure lasts three and a half hours. A professional trained climb leader that accompanies each group provides interesting historical facts and other Sydney sites. The climbers get a free photo at the end of the adventure.

 

Japan's northern island of Hokkaido is a beautiful scenic destination for skiing in the winter and an array of outdoor activities in the summer. The Windsor Hotel TOYA Resort & Spa has a great spa, golf and guest rooms with fabulous Lake Toya or ocean views. There are 272 guest accommodations, including 114 luxury suites, with panoramic windows which frame the view. The hotel is perched high above the water and makes you feel like you are levitating above the stunning natural surroundings.

The Bloom Spa Toya is home to Japanese Hot Springs overlooking the lake and Mount Yotei. Relax in the thermal waters of a Japanese cypress or a stone bath, visit the open-air bath and the saunas. Choose from a range of treatments such as rejuvenating facials, reflexology for your feet and a variety of body work. The 18-hole, par 72 Windsor Great Peak Golf Course features some of the most stunning water views (hole 12 and 17 are the most scenic). Enjoy modern facilities and amenities, including carts equipped with a GPS LCD navigation system. The course was designed by Seisui Chin. Dine at two Michelin-starred Arashiyama Kitcho which serves amazing Japanese cuisine with a seasonally changing menu by Chef Kunio Tokuoka. Vacation activities include Kid's Academy, tennis, fitness center, nature tours, fly fishing, mountain biking, Segway tours, flower arranging classes and more. Rooms start at $394 USD per night (+81-142-73-1111).

 

Mandarin Oriental, Prague is located in the heart of the historic center of Prague in the Czech Republic. The hotel is build on the the site of a former 14th century monastery. Take romantic walks down cobbled streets, have a gourmet dinner at the restaurant and get a massage at the spa. The hotel offers luxuriously appointed guest accommodations which measure at least 312 square feet in size. Guests can choose from contemporary interiors and historic accommodations with period furnishings. Deluxe Terrace rooms each have a private terrace that overlooks the Monastery Garden where you can have a quiet breakfast or a romantic dinner.

The Spa is situated in a former Renaissance chapel, offering a unique surroundings and relaxing treatments. Prague offers many seasonal events and if your travel plans are flexible you can visit during the Spring Music Festival in the second half of May, attend the Food Festival or many Summer festivities. Rates start from $400 USD per night.

 

Europe's tallest outdoor elevator offers spectacular views of the Swiss Lake Lucerne. The elevator is located 3,714 feet above sea level. Enjoy spectacular water views as you zoom up to the summit in less than a minute. This unique adventure is not for those with a fear of heights. Completely rebuilt with state-of-the-art technology, the Hammetschwand Lift is for thrill seekers who enjoy high speeds and spectacular views. The elevator is the fastest external elevator of the world and was originally built over 100 years ago.

The lift is open from the beginning of May through mid-October, from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm. Lift tickets cost CHF 13 (CHF 6.50 for children). You can take the elevator up and walk down if you prefer. The operating schedule and prices can be confirmed by calling (41)-612-90-90. See Lucerne on a map. The elevator entrance is at the Buergenstock resort, a popular European vacation spot since the 1800s. The resort is home to a modern spa with an indoor pool and two outdoor pools located high above the lake. You can check in for a few days of rejuvenation and magnificent views. If you decide to go for a ride in this unique elevator, you can stay on the shores of Lake Lucerne for a few nights and explore the beautiful Swiss mountains. There are several hotels, spas and vacation rentals available in the area.

 

Visit the Contemporary Chinese Art collection at the Opposite House in Beijing, dine at one its stylish restaurants and bars, and check into a spacious room or suite, many of which exhibit more art. Innovative Japanese architect Kengo Kuma designed the emerald glass facade and minimalist interiors with abundant natural light with the purpose of the common areas also being used as an art gallery.

The collection of modern art by Chinese artists from China, Hong Kong, Australia and the UK is fashion-themed, inspired by The Village at Sanlitun, Beijing's premier open-plan shopping destination in which the property is located. You can view most of the artwork by strolling through the lobby, but some exclusive pieces are located in the luxury suites. The property has a stainless steel indoor swimming pool and a gym with Technogym equipment. Dine in the Mediterranean restaurant, Sureno, or try north Asian cuisine served at Bei restaurant. The contemporary lounge bar Mesh where many art pieces are located, serves champagnes by the glass, wine and original cocktails. Room rates start from RMB 3,220 and include breakfast (+86 10 6417 6688).

© Barnsley Resort

Barnsley Resort, is an original Southern Estate that will appeal to romantics looking for a storybook escape. The resort offers 90 guest rooms and suites as well as five separate one bedroom cottages for those looking for a little more privacy. The rooms are filled with luxurious touches such as claw foot tubs, wood burning fireplaces, private gardens and porches with wooden rocking chairs. Enjoy a day at the spa while your other half enjoys a game of golf on the picturesque 72 Par course. Kids will be entertained by the Explorer’s club in summer which offers a range of activities including horse-riding, swimming, crafts and games. The resort has a swimming pool, tennis court, lake for kayaking and fishing, hiking, biking and a paintball arena. The resort offers a choice of restaurants: the Rice House for an intimate celebratory dinner, the Beer Garden for craft brews and alfresco dining, while the Woodlands Grill offers the ambiance of a hunting lodge and serves grilled foods. Rooms start at $299 per night.

 

Do you want to experience the benefits of geothermal seawater? Visit Iceland's Blue Lagoon, one of the top spa vacations in Europe with a huge outdoor lagoon filled with geothermal seawater whose active ingredients (mineral salts, silica and algae) have positive effects on the skin. Facilities include a sauna with a view of the lagoon and a steam bath carved into a lava cave. The waterfall in the lagoon provides massages. Visitors also get access to the famous white silica mud, in-water spa treatments and massages. The restaurant has huge glass walls overlooking the lagoon and serves an array of entrees ranging from light meals to domestic and international dishes. The Medical Center provides accommodations for 30 guests. Situated in the middle of a lava field, a short walking distance from the main spa, the Medical Center offers treatment for psoriasis. The resort is a 40-minute drive from Reykavík, the capital of Iceland.

 

The Le Maquis hotel in Corsica, France is a romantic hotel with its own hidden beach on the Gulf of Ajaccio. Corsica is the birthplace of Napoleon. This island is often referred to as the "Island of Beauty" and for a good reason - it is indeed a visual treat. The property has just 7 suites and 18 rooms, offering guests plenty of privacy. Ask for a room with a balcony overlooking the the Mediterranean Sea. Guest accommodations have wooden shutters, exposed beams, Pierre Frey drapes and antique furniture. Choose from the Penthouse Suite, Deluxe suites, Superior rooms, Standard rooms, Junior Suites and Apartments. L'Arbousier serves a blend of new and traditional cuisine in a romantic, candle-lit setting. The ancient beams in the cozy inside rooms have been recycled from what was once the Ajaccio prison. You can also dine at the terrace if you want to take in the spectacular views. Lobster specialties, scrambled eggs with truffles and fish tartare are particularly good here. The choice of dessert is also impressive. You can try the dark chocolate moist cake or the apple tart. The bar is located in the splendid terrace that overlooks the sea, gardens and the swimming pools. Inside you will find salons and a cozy fireplace. Sample a selection of the finest teas and enjoy views of sunsets over the water. Doubles start at 180 Euro per night.

 

The Pool House is a scenic retreat, located on the shore of Loch Ewe in the Highlands. Luxurious suites, magnificent scenery, and attentive service make the Pool House one of the best romantic hotels in Scotland. The hotel has five suites ranging in size from 300 square feet to 860 square feet. All of the suites are individually decorated and furnished with fine antiques, paintings and porcelain, offering perfect ambiance for a romantic vacation in Europe. North by North West is a nautical-themed dining room, located just 15 feet from the waters edge and overlooks the Inverewe Garden. The North by North West Dining Room has won numerous awards for culinary excellence and is very popular. Reservations are required and children under the age of 14 are not allowed in the dining room since the restaurant caters to couples on a romantic vacation. Around the hotel, there are gorgeous gardens, beaches and waterfalls. Take a maritime excursion where you might see Minke whales or porpoise. The hotel is a 90-minute drive from Inverness and 5 hours from Edinburgh or Glasgow. There are daily flights from Gatwick airport to Inverness. Rates at the Pool House start from £250 per night. Dinner is £40 per person for four courses (pool-house.co.uk).

© Vila Vita Parc

In 1992, Vila Vita Parc joined the family of VILA VITA hotels, which has been around since 1980. The small hotel group, which has five hotels and a vineyard, opened the luxury beach resort in the Portuguese Algarve coast.

Facing the lush seaside, the hotel is an oasis of extravagance in everything it offers: accommodation, fine dining, and amenities. Whether guests choose to spend their time in the resort, on the surrounding beach and water, or partaking in nearby excursions, VILA VITA shows them a side of Portugal that can’t be experienced anywhere else.

VILA VITA Parc, Rua Anneliese Pohl, Alporchinhos, 8400-450 Porches, Algarve, Portugal, +351-282-310-100

 

Finca Cortesin is a hotel that makes any vacation infinitely better. Located in Spain, the hotel boasts 67 palatial suites that surround two principle courtyards. The design and décor of the hotel are inspired by traditional Andalusian architecture, which is visible in its high ceilings and grand pillars.

Guests are invited for a memorable experience and can enjoy their Spain vacation in the hotel’s manicured gardens, at the tennis courts, in the luxurious spa, in the fitness center, or by unwinding in any of the hotel’s four swimming pools (outdoor and indoor option available). Finca Cortesin is a ten-minute ride from the beach and the refreshing Mediterranean Sea, and the hotel has a Beach Club which guests have complimentary entrance to as well as a shuttle service to and from there.

Finca Cortesin, Carretera de Casares, s/n, 29690 Casares – Málaga, Spain, +34-952-90-03-09