Through The Highs And Lows

Fifty-five years ago, in April 1967, Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell released the hit single "Ain't No Mountain High Enough," reminding us that there ain't no mountain high, valley low, or river wide enough to keep those in love apart. With those geographic standards in mind, here are some destinations you can consider for your honeymoon to symbolize the vastness of love - that nothing can separate you and your soon-to-be spouse.

Ain't No Mountain High Enough:

Poconos, Pennsylvania: Northeastern PA is known for more than just being the setting of the hit television show "The Office." In fact, 2,400 square miles of the region is home to the Pocono Mountains, which offer an almost unending range of outdoor activities for newlyweds: more than 260 miles of hiking and biking trails, along with picturesque waterfalls, countless ski trails, fishing, and whitewater rafting. Of course, the region boasts more leisurely offerings as well, from art exhibits and cultural tours to shops and antiques. And, if you time your visit right, you can experience the local culture from the vantage point of one of the area's festivals. You can even check out Grey Towers, the Milford estate of the Pinchot family, notably Gifford Pinchot, known as the Father of Forestry for his conservation efforts. In the midst of whatever activities you choose, don't forget to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views!

Blue Ridge Mountains, Georgia: The Blue Ridge Mountains stretch all the way from southern PA to Georgia, offering majestic views the entire way. One option for peace and quiet on your honeymoon is to head to the southernmost point of the range in Pickens County, Georgia. You'll have ample opportunities to enjoy the sights and sounds of nature, whether you hike to the southernmost peak, Mount Oglethorpe; take on the moderate Burnt Mountain Preserve Trail; or tackle the strenuous Tobacco Pouch Loop. Ready for a change of scenery? Make your way to Jasper, where you can catch a show by the Tater Patch Players, tour the Old Pickens County Jail, or hit some antiques shops to find that perfect treasure to adorn your home. If you want to give your feet a rest, make your way to Bent Tree Stables to view the area from horseback!

Mae Hong Son City, Thailand: The town of approximately 7,000 residents is nestled in the Shan Hills in northwest Thailand, offering visitors an opportunity to become immersed in the culture due to the town's remote location. Stop by the morning market of Talat Chao and grab breakfast at a local restaurant. An assortment of delicious fare is available at the city's night market, as well. Be sure to check out the Wat Phrathat Doi Kongmu, the oldest temple in the area; located on top of Doi Kongmu hill, it boasts spectacular views of the sunrise. In addition to numerous temples showcasing a variety of architectural inspiration and various hiking trails, there are also ample opportunities to visit the area's hill tribe villages, such as the traditional long neck village of Huay Pu Keng; caves, such as the Tham Pla (Fish Cave); waterfalls, including Pha Suea Waterfall; and hot springs.

Also Worth Checking Out: Glacier National Park, Montana: Whether you hike, take to the water, cycle, or drive, you can bask in the beauty of the park, which showcases the stunning Rocky Mountains and picturesque glaciers. Bring some binoculars to look for wildlife roaming the mountainsides hundreds of feet above. And be sure to drive the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which boasts views that will leave you breathless.

Ain't No Valley Low Enough:

Bald Eagle Valley, Pennsylvania: A rural paradise awaits in Bald Eagle Valley, sandwiched between the West Branch Susquehanna Valley and the Nittany Valley. Be sure to spend some time in Bald Eagle State Park in Howard, where you and your new spouse will find ample outdoor activities on the Foster Joseph Sayers Reservoir, ranging from boating and fishing to swimming and wildlife watching. Among the lodging options is the gorgeous Nature Inn at Bald Eagle, which offers stunning views and uses green building technologies. When the itch for outdoor recreation has been scratched, take a short drive to Lock Haven to cut a rug on the dance floor at The Fallon House, expand your knowledge of aircraft at the Piper Aviation Museum, or take a stroll along the West Branch Susquehanna River.

Willamette Valley, Oregon: In the 1800s, the 150-mile Willamette Valley was the destination of countless pioneers traversing the country in their wagons on the Oregon Trail. In the present day, it can also be the destination for newlyweds on their honeymoons! The valley has been aptly dubbed Oregon Wine Country, as it is home to more than 500 wineries, so you and your new spouse may want to take a drive to explore the countryside and discover your new favorite wine. While the region does maintain its pastoral charm, it is also home to six of Oregon's largest cities, so you'll have endless options when it comes to finding the accommodations, dining spots, activities, entertainment, arts, tours, and more that will make your honeymoon the memorably romantic experience you've always dreamed of.

Telemark, Norway: The Telemark region is considered Norway's "Wild West," boasting breathtaking scenery, recreational opportunities, authentic heritage and culture, and more. Newlyweds looking for views can hike to the summit of Gaustatoppen - 6,177 feet above sea level - or take an underground cable car to the top. At the foot of the mountain is the town of Rjukan, which appears the same now as it did more than a century ago. The municipality of Hjartdal also offers quaint lodging, from the Tuddal Høyfjellshotell to Nutheim Gjestgiveri. Looking for entertainment? Make your way to Notodden, which is known as "Bluestown" and hosts the Notodden Blues Festival each August. Nearby, check out the Heddal Stave Church, the largest Viking-era church in Norway. Take a short drive north to Tinn Lake, one of the deepest lakes in Europe, and catch a ride on the ferry Storegut if you're visiting in summertime.

Also Worth Checking Out: Valle de Elqui, Chile: Small towns abound in the region, which is known for its agriculture, tourism, and vineyards. Sample the locally made Syrah and Carmenere wines and indulge in the traditional fare. Biking, horseback riding, hiking, and tours offer unique views of the area. Once the sun sets, head outside and be awestruck by the views of the night sky; the valley was recognized as the first International Dark Skies Sanctuary in the world.

Ain't No River Wide Enough:

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania: One river may not be wide enough to keep couples apart, but what about three? The Ohio, the Allegheny, and the Monongahela - which converge in Pittsburgh - set the tone of the city. There are a variety of ways to experience all that Pittsburgh has to offer, from shopping in the Strip District, sampling local brews, and tasting regional cuisine to exploring parks such as the Pittsburgh Botanic Garden and Point State Park and visiting museums. The city is also known for its sports teams, so take in a home game while you're in town! When you and your honey have explored the Burgh to your hearts' content, head to either the Duquesne Incline or the Monongahela Incline, both on Mount Washington, and take in the views of the city and its rivers from above.

Itasca State Park, Minnesota: It's often said that big things come from small beginnings. That is certainly true of the more-than-2,300-mile Mississippi River, which springs from Lake Itasca, nestled within the borders of Itasca State Park in northcentral Minnesota. While the Mississippi's headwaters are certainly a draw of the park, you'll find plenty else to do, from exploring the Itasca Wilderness Sanctuary to taking tours of the lake to renting watercraft to enjoying local eateries. You can even take in a performance by the nearby Northern Light Opera Company. As for accommodations, the park offers various campsites for couples wanting the full outdoors experience, as well as rooms in the historic Douglas Lodge and even some log cabins for newlyweds looking for a rustic escape. No matter what you choose, make sure to snag a bag or two of Minnesota wild rice as a memento!

Pisa, Italy: Mention Pisa and the first thought that comes to mind is likely the Leaning Tower. While the famous structure is certainly a sight to see, the city of Pisa has much else to offer its visitors, including picturesque views of the Arno, the 150-mile river that empties into the Tyrrhenian Sea just west of the city. Various options abound for mini cruises on the river, and visitors can also stroll along the waterway and the city streets, gelato in hand, to absorb the views. Indulge in some high-end shopping at the Borgo Stretto, and enjoy a wide assortment of restaurants and museums. Don't forget to try the tiramisu! Of course, make a stop at the Piazza del Duomo, which houses the Pisa Cathedral, the Pisa Baptistry, and the Leaning Tower. Want to explore the larger area? Head to Florence, Genoa, or the small Tuscan gem of Orvieto for a day trip.

Also Worth Checking Out: Austin, Texas: Music fans will feel right at home in the Texas state capital, which has a reputation for a buzzing live-music scene. Those wishing for a tranquil outdoors experience should check out the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail, which runs along the Colorado River, as well as the Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake. Don't forget to stop by Stubb's Bar-B-Q for some delicious Texas fare or Torchy's Tacos to experience a regional chain!

*Ian Brodie is an award-winning landscape and unit stills photographer, film tourism expert, and internationally successful author with over 20 books published with nearly 2 million copies sold, including "The Lord of the Rings Location Guidebook" and "Cameras in Narnia." Based in Australia, Ian Brodie has collaborated with Norway Communicates (www.norwaycommunicates.com) in a range of film and tourism projects, including the Wild Telemark (www.wildtelemark.com), with photos from this region profiled in this magazine. Learn more about Ian Brodie at http://www.ianbrodie.net.

Order professional photos at epcphoto.com hosted by smugmug.

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