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THE GRAND DESCENT
The Sport: Mountain biking
The Arena: Dominica
Your Adventure: We understand that the Caribbean doesn't necessarily summon images of labor-intensive pursuits, but one of the most divine experiences on this Caribbean island lies far above the golden halo of beaches. The 290-square-mile island of Dominica (which is between Guadeloupe and Martinique) has elevations of more than 4,000 feet, allowing views of both the Atlantic and the Caribbean. Nature Island Dive arranges guided daylong mountain-biking trips where you're trucked up to 2,000 feet and then bike down (so you won't work too hard). You'll be following dirt roads through the dense, beautiful mix of banana, avocado, and mango trees—plus the occasional dip in a rain forest river for washing off the sweat and grime. The sweat and grime comes off when guests have a chance to take a dip in a rain-forest river. Jungle Bay Resort & Spa has treehouselike cottages with locally built wood furniture near both trails and beaches, ensuring you'll still have that on-top-of-the-world feeling.
Nature Island Dive
Tel: 767 449 8181
$96 for a full day of guided biking, including equipment, transportation, and meals
Jungle Bay Resort & Spa
Tel: 767 446 1789
Cottages from $159, including breakfast
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