5 Mountain Getaways to Breathe In

Publication date: 10-09-2026

Hiker walking to mountains

A mountain getaway brings spectacular scenery, thrilling outdoor activities and the opportunity to discover regions steeped in culture and nature. Whether you’re planning a hike in the Canadian Rockies, a journey through the Dolomites or a trek in Nepal, proper preparation will help you travel with confidence. 

 

Before you set off, it’s worth checking the weather forecast, packing the right gear for your activities and choosing travel insurance that covers your destination. Here are five mountain destinations to spark your next adventure. 

Tourist canoeing on Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, Canadian Rockies, Alberta, Canada.

1. Banff: Where the Rockies reveal their grandeur

With its turquoise lakes, soaring peaks and sweeping forests, Banff stands out as one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Canadian Rockies. The park’s scenery transforms with each season, so every visit feels like uncovering somewhere entirely new. 

 

Visitors can wander an extensive trail network, glide across crystal-clear lakes by canoe and enjoy scenic drives offering opportunities to spot wildlife and take in the grandeur of the Rocky Mountains. 

2. The Dolomites: A meeting point of nature and culture

With their dramatic cliffs, lush green valleys and charming alpine villages, the Dolomites offer such remarkable scenery landscape that they have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage status. This region in northern Italy enchants visitors with its scenery just as much as its warm, welcoming spirit. 

 

Cable cars provide easy access to breathtaking viewpoints, while mountain huts invite you to stop and sample local specialties. It’s a wonderful way to blend outdoor adventure with cultural discovery. 

Active senior woman riding her electric mountain bike on the high plateau of Pratto Piazzo in the three peaks Dolomites , rocky silhouette of Mount Cristallo in background, South Tirol, Italy
Active hiker hiking, enjoying the view, looking at Himalaya mountains landscape

3. Nepal: An immersive journey among the world’s highest peaks

Nepal may instantly bring the Himalayas to mind, but the country has far more to offer than Mount Everest alone. Valleys, traditional villages and monasteries are woven throughout the landscape, offering a window into a culture deeply connected to the mountains. 

 

Whether you’re seeking a light challenge or a demanding one, you can choose a hike lasting just a few hours or a trek spanning several days. Every route unveils breathtaking views, matched by hospitality that has earned Nepal worldwide renown.

4. The Slovenian Alps: Europe’s hidden gem

Largely overlooked by mainstream tourism, the Slovenian Alps are a fantastic pick for travellers seeking the mountains away from the busier destinations. The landscape moves between crystal-clear lakes, thick forests and rugged peaks. 

 

Triglav National Park is ideal for hiking, biking and spotting wildlife, making it a perfect setting for a tranquil escape in a beautifully preserved environment. 

Female hiker having a break in spring on the summit of Frauenkogel in the Karawanks in Carinthia, Austria, Europe. Borders with Slovenia. Triglav National Park.
National park Torres del Paine, Patagonia, Chile

5. Patagonia: Where the wild mountains reign

In Patagonia, nature takes centre stage. Spanning Chile and Argentina, this region captivates visitors with its glaciers, jagged peaks, vast open spaces and remarkably diverse landscapes. 

 

Trails wind through several national parks, unveiling breathtaking panoramas, glacial lakes and remarkable wildlife along the way. It’s a destination built for lovers of the great outdoors and adventure.

Your mountain getaway packing checklist

Mountain weather can change in an instant, so packing wisely will help you make the most of every activity. 

 

Before you head out, make sure your bag includes these essentials:

  • Hiking boots
  • Layered clothing
  • Waterproof or windproof jacket
  • Warm sweater
  • Hat or beanie (depending on the season)
  • Sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Energy snacks
  • First-aid kit
  • Personal medications
  • Passport (if required)
  • Travel insurance
Trekking equipment on top of a mountain.

Assistance that travels with you, wherever you go

Between steep trails, outdoor adventures and occasionally unpredictable weather, a mountain trip carries certain risks. Whether you’re facing an injury, a health issue or an unexpected situation brought on by the weather, the right travel insurance ensures you have the support to keep your trip on track with confidence. 

 

For several decades, Ontario Blue Cross has stood by travellers through its assistance service. Each year, its teams field more than 70,000 calls from 154 countries and manage over 14,000 assistance cases. Backed by an extensive global network of partners, Ontario Blue Cross provides fast access to medical care and assistance whenever needed. This expertise has earned the trust of hundreds of thousands of policyholders. 

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Your next mountain adventure starts here

From the Canadian Rockies to the peaks of the Himalayas, across the Alps and into the wild landscapes of Patagonia, the mountains hold endless possibilities for exploration. Whichever destination calls to you, taking time to prepare beforehand can make all the difference. 

 

Before you set off on your next mountain trip, spend a few minutes choosing travel insurance suited to your needs, so you can head out with confidence. 

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Frequently Asked Questions

Outdoor activities and changing weather conditions can sometimes lead to unexpected situations. Travel insurance can help you access the assistance and medical care you may need if a health issue or emergency arises during your trip.  

Travel insurance is essential when visiting another province, as it protects you against unexpected expenses. 
 
Your provincial health plan may not cover all medical costs incurred outside your province of residence, including ambulance transportation, emergency repatriation and prescription drugs. Some services are only partially reimbursed. 
 
Our customizable travel insurance includes all of this, plus 24/7 travel assistance and a Flight Delay Service. 

There is no altitude restriction in our travel insurance policy. As a result, high-altitude hiking and trekking are covered, regardless of the destination. However, high-risk mountain and climbing activities, such as rock climbing and mountaineering rated Class 4 or Class 5 on the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS), are excluded. 

The protections available depend on the coverage you purchase, but travel insurance may include benefits such as: 

  • Emergency Medical Care 

  • Trip Cancellation and Interruption 

  • Baggage 

  • Accidental Death or Dismemberment 

  • Rainy Day 

When travelling outside Canada, healthcare and other unexpected travel-related expenses can be significantly more expensive than you may expect. Travel insurance can help reduce the financial impact of unforeseen events and provide access to assistance services whenever support is needed. 

It’s generally recommended to buy travel insurance shortly after booking your trip. Purchasing coverage early may allow you to take advantage of eligible trip cancellation benefits and ensure your insurance is in place well before departure.