From relaxing mud baths and natural attractions to action packed trails and fun obstacle courses, these are the top spots to muddy things up.
Mountain biking on Vancouver’s North Shore, Canada
Bring your bike to the North Shore in October or February and prepare to get dirty. The constant downpour muddies up every twist and turn, giving your ride an added challenge. With so much terrain to explore, you won’t want to let the soggy conditions stop you. Just wear your sludge like a badge of honour. That said, layers are wise.
The Dead Sea, Israel
Photo: @momo via flickr
Forget clinical-feeling float therapy tanks – keep it natural with a trip to the Dead Sea. As the saltiest body of water in the world, a dip in these waters is said to relieve joint pain, heart complications and even skin problems. Smear on some mud before taking a dip to remove toxins and toss on your packable robe on the way out.
Rugged Maniac 5k, Canada
Fitness buffs looking for a new challenge will love the Rugged Maniac 5k. With Canadian stops in Toronto, Calgary and Vancouver plus races across the United States, there’s plenty of opportunity to get in on the rugged fun. Expect playground-style challenges: slide, monkey bar rings and see-saw-like obstacles – and a bunch of mud. Before you hit the Shoe Catcher make sure you heel-lock those runners!
Milky Way Lagoon, Palau
Photo: Palau Visitors Authority Collections © 2011 All Copy Rights Reserved
An archipelago of over 500 islands, Palau is home to more than a few mysteries. Adventurous beach travellers can swim with golden jellyfish in the Rock Islands (these isolated marine animals have lost their sting) before making your way to the Milky Way Lagoon to coat up with shining white limestone mud and rinsing off with a snorkel session.
Hveragerði, Iceland
Active travellers exploring the land of fire and ice will undoubtedly make a stop in Reykjavik, but few may take the short 35 minute car ride to Hveragerði. The small town is just 45km east of the capital and is located in an active volcanic zone, giving tourists a great display of the country’s geothermal activity – including its mud baths, which are said to offer natural pain-relief for hikers and wanderers looking to dip their tired feet.