Savvy Exploring

Rochester, New York has something for every season. These are a few local gems that aren’t a secret, but even if you have lived here for years you may not have experienced them all.

I keep getting asked What is the best? and What if you have to pick just one? While there are hard questions to answer, here is my best shot at it. If I was going to do this trip again and only go to the very best places these would be my picks.

Snaefellsnes Peninsula is often called mini Iceland for its mix of sights from all around the country. While it does condense a lot of Iceland into on spot, it also has many sights of its own that we you won’t find anywhere else.

When I think of going north I tend to visualize snowcapped mountains. While I’m sure there are many in the north, the Ring Road takes you through the center of the north which presents fewer snowcapped mountains than the fjords, but plenty of volcanic activity.

It is hard to imagine anything on Route 1 being off the beaten path, but much of the East Fjords has that feel. This is an area with something new around every corner and plenty of surprises.

The lush greenery of the southern coast provided more stunning vistas at every turn with dozens of waterfalls cascading from the cliffs above. While this part of the country is known for hordes of tourists, and we did deal with some, we also found a few magical places to enjoy in peace.

If you are looking for custom made products, shopping, night life, massages, and lanterns, this is the place.

Stunning! This area was like Ha Long Bay on land, but without the pollution and a fraction of the tourists.

Ha Long Bay inspires images of tropical beauty, ethereal mountains shrouded in mist, and people living simple lives. It is all this and more, .

Off the beaten path without being out of the way, this isolated peninsula makes the perfect picnic stop.