Virtuoso Insights - August/September 2008 - (Page 28) colIMa VolcaNo • Mexico The most active volcano in Mexico, Colima is as hot as a jalapeno pepper. The mountain has erupted more than 40 times since 1576, and you’re almost guaranteed to witness it spewing smoke, ash, and even red-hot rocks down its slopes. In actuality, there are twin peaks: the older, inactive Nevado de Colima which, according to legend, is inhabited by an Aztec god who protects the surrounding villages from its ill-tempered younger brother, the explosive Volcán de Fuego. While sharing its name with the Mexican state of Colima, the majority of the volcano is located in neighboring Jalisco. There are many routes up the dormant peak, which reaches to a mystical 14,000 feet. Add even more enchantment to your journey with a visit to Zona Mágica, the “Magic Zone”; for some 1,000 feet at this natural oddity in northern Colima, water and round objects actually run uphill. see it: Dating from the 19th century and still a working cattle ranch and coffee plantation, the gracious Hacienda de San Antonio nestles in the foothills below Colima — and you’ll be treated to a volcano excursion during your stay, compliments of Virtuoso. Also enjoy full breakfast daily; a private lakeside picnic, complete with a selection of organic cheeses, once per stay; and a gift bag of gourmet coffee. From $400 per room, per night. Heads up: Hiking in Arenal Volcano National Park. areNal VolcaNo • costa Rica Costa Rica earned its reputation as Nature’s playground in large part due to its abundant volcanoes; the country claims more than 200 fiery formations, of which Arenal is the most famous. First erupting some 7,000 years ago, the forest-covered mount boasts a perfect conical shape and incredible activity, spewing molten rock and ash on a regular basis since 1968. The 5,436-foot-high Arenal Volcano is located on the eastern shores of its namesake lake, Costa Rica’s largest and a popular spot for watersports. The surrounding national parkland is a haven for hikers and naturalists; from the Arenal Observatory, follow the Laguna trailhead, which leads you to the water-filled crater of the extinct Chato Volcano. see it: This 10-day journey with Costa Rica Expeditions will have you trekking along the Arenal Hanging Bridges for outstanding views of the volcano, then staying in the plush, rainforest-set Lost Iguana Resort. You’ll also enjoy treks and tremendous views from the tree platform at the rustic, beachfront Corcovado Lodge Tent Camp, as well as a surfing lesson at Nosara Beach. Also includes two nights in San José, most meals, and more. Available through December 31, 2008. From $3,185 per person. more Volcano treks on page 30 P Twin peaks: Hacienda de San Antonio and Colima Volcano. 28 Virtuoso insights
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