Elite Traveler March-April 2017

elite traveler MAR/APR 2017 69

Hot-air balloon MONACO

The best way to get a bird’s-eye view of the earth below is from a balloon. Arrive by helicopter to Saint-Crépin in Mont-Dauphin for a hot-air balloon breakfast after soaring 4,000ft up into the atmosphere as the sensational landscape opens up beneath your feet. Experience incredible views of the Ecrins Massif and its famous summits, as well as the well- preserved, century-old natural beauty of Queyras Regional Park and the tranquil Serre-Ponçon Lake, one of the largest artificial lakes in Western Europe. After gaining a literal and philosophical new perspective on the world, unwind at the Hôtel Metropole Monte-Carlo. The belle epoque-style hotel dates back to 1886, and the 1,184 sq ft terrace of the Suite Carre d’Or provides unrivaled views of the Casino de Monte-Carlo, its gardens and the Mediterranean Sea. Price $20,142 per night, including hot-air balloon trip Contact Philippe Chapuis, head concierge, concierge@metropole.com, +377 93 15 1520, metropole.com

Gorge swing ZIMBABWE

Not for the acrophobic, this gorge swing at Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls is 312ft long and 390ft above water, and you’ll be freefalling for 230ft before you even begin the stomach-churning swinging. The high wire is suspended across the gorge at a point where the width is 1,036ft. Wearing a harness, you’ll take a heart-stopping leap off the edge of the gorge, freefalling before you begin to do your best impression of a pendulum. When you’re back on solid ground, head to the nearby Victoria Falls Safari Lodge to immerse yourself in the essence of Africa. The lodge overlooks a waterhole that is visited by herds of elephants, buffalo, kudu and a range of birds. Stay in the sunset-facing Safari Suite, set in a natural bush environment on the edge of Zambezi National Park. Price $1,200 per night for a three-bedroom suite, activities not included Contact Herbert Muzore, reservations manager, resman@saflodge.co.zw, +263 13 43211, africaalbidatourism.com