Outside’s 2026 Travel Awards: Pioneering Regenerative Adventures
Published March 18, 2026
Outside magazine has announced its 2026 Travel Awards, celebrating the companies, places, and visionaries reshaping adventure travel with a focus on regeneration, inclusivity, innovation, sustainability, and wildness. The awards recognize 25 trailblazers across hotels, adventure companies, and trail initiatives.
America’s Best Hotels: Redefining Adventure Basecamps
From iconic Route 66 to the landscapes of Maine, hotels are increasingly becoming integral to the American adventure experience. Several properties highlighted in the awards exemplify this trend:
Reset Hotel, Joshua Tree
Tapping into the unique energy of the Mojave Desert, the Reset Hotel is a new build in Joshua Tree, California, offering a magical experience. Read more about Reset Hotel.
Postcard Cabins Shenandoah North
Marriott’s Outdoor Collection has expanded to the Shenandoah Valley in Virginia with the Postcard Cabins. These modernist timber cabins feature expansive wall-sized windows, immersing guests in the surrounding forest. Amenities include wood-burning stoves, fire pits, queen beds, and kitchenettes. Learn more about Postcard Cabins Shenandoah North.
Cataloochee Ranch, North Carolina
This upscale ranch on the edge of Great Smoky Mountains National Park offers a blend of rustic charm and luxury. Guests can participate in activities like cattle roping, horseback riding, and hiking. Cataloochee Ranch has also been designated a DarkSky Approved Lodge by DarkSky International, providing exceptional stargazing opportunities. Discover Cataloochee Ranch.
Snow Peak Campfield, Washington
This Washington resort offers diverse camping experiences, catering to various preferences. Explore Snow Peak Campfield.
Terramor Outdoor Resort, Maine
Located near Acadia National Park, Terramor offers glamping accommodations with hotel-level amenities, including en suite bathrooms, comfortable bedding, and access to outdoor activities. The resort is committed to accessibility, partnering with GRIT Freedom Chair to provide all-terrain wheelchairs. Uncover out more about Terramor Outdoor Resort.
The Golden Age of the Grand Canyon Motel
Properties near the Grand Canyon are elevating the pre- and post-hike experience with high-design accommodations and enhanced amenities. Read about the Grand Canyon Motel transformation.
One&. Only Moonlight Basin, Big Sky, Montana
Big Sky’s newest luxury property is receiving recognition for its exceptional offerings. Learn about One&Only Moonlight Basin.
Best International Hotels: Sanctuaries in Nature
The awards also highlight international hotels that prioritize connection with nature and sustainable practices:
Desierto Azul, Baja California Sur, Mexico
This micro hotel in Baja California Sur focuses on minimizing environmental impact although providing a charming and intimate guest experience. It features a gluten- and dairy-free bakery, a plant-based cooking school, and a sun-heated saltwater pool. Explore Desierto Azul.
Kanava Resort, Finland
Nestled between two national parks in Finland, Kanava Resort offers sustainably built cabins with direct access to outdoor trails. The resort emphasizes connection with nature and Finnish traditions. Discover Kanava Resort.
Tierra Atacama, Chile
This oasis in Chile’s high desert provides a regenerative experience, encouraging guests to unplug and connect with the surrounding landscape. Learn about Tierra Atacama.
Hôtel du Couvent, Nice, France
This urban escape in Nice, France, offers access to hiking trails and a unique subterranean spa experience inspired by Roman baths. Explore Hôtel du Couvent.
Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort, Belize
Celebrating 25 years, Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort is a regenerative haven providing access to Belize’s reef and rainforest. It is a founding member of Regenerative Hotels and is committed to conservation and community empowerment. Discover Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort.
Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, Bali
This property in Bali operates on a “no walls, no doors” ethos, immersing guests in the jungle landscape and fostering a deep connection with Balinese culture. Explore Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape.
Best Adventure Travel Companies: Leading the Way
The awards also recognize adventure travel companies committed to responsible and regenerative practices:
Community Homestay Network, Nepal
This network connects travelers with local communities in Nepal, offering immersive cultural experiences and supporting sustainable tourism. Learn about Community Homestay Network.
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is transforming national park trips into hands-on public lands advocacy experiences. Discover Intrepid Travel.
Exodus Adventure Travels
A certified B Corp, Exodus Adventure Travels curates small-group active adventures with a focus on responsible travel. Explore Exodus Adventure Travels.
WHOA Travel
WHOA Travel brings women together for epic treks and adventures, promoting inclusivity and empowerment in the outdoor space. Learn about WHOA Travel.
Wilderness Travel
Wilderness Travel offers expert-led journeys to the world’s wildest and most remote destinations, emphasizing cultural immersion and environmental responsibility. Discover Wilderness Travel.
Looking Ahead
Outside’s 2026 Travel Awards highlight a growing trend towards more conscious and regenerative travel, where adventure is not just about exploration but also about making a positive impact on the world.