Water wonderlands

01-May-07

Luxury comes in many forms - not least impeccable service, good food and comfortable beds; all important elements of a five-star trip. But for a truly memorable holiday, there's nothing quite like a natural wonder.

Magnificent and mythical, waterfalls have attracted visitors for centuries. And alongside visiting the wet and wonderful main attraction, these natural gems are often surrounded by a range of activities, from walking opportunities to sports and museums.

Five-star accommodation has yet to reach all locations, but the breathtaking sights, sounds and sensations of each is likely to leave even the most discerning clients in awe.

"We send many clients - from honeymooners to the elderly - to Iguacu, a significant proportion of which stay at the best hotels at the falls," says Mark Beken, travel specialist for South American Experience. "In my opinion, Iguacu puts the Victoria and Niagara Falls in the shade as far as panoramic spectacle goes. For those who want to experience a magnificentwaterfal- in a truly pristineenvironment, however, I recommend the Kaieteur Falls in Guyana (the world's largest single-drop falls), which are utterly bewitching, although this is much more for adventurous travellers and reachable on a day trip by scenic flight from Georgetown."

The powerful forces of Niagara, Victoria and Iguacu make for unforgettable adventures, while European waters can offer a more peaceful experience.

"The waterfall attracts everyone," says Norway's Eidfjord Tourist Information's Elin Kval.

"When you are standing at the top and look down, you feel a great delight. It is fascinating, but at the same time scary.I think that these two different feelings make a visit magnificent."

From foodies to sports enthusiasts, there is a waterfall holiday to suit every client - just remind them to pack a raincoat.

IGUACU FALLS - ARGENTINA/BRAZIL

Why: Having starred in a range of movies from Moonraker to the award-winning 80s film The Mission, clients may already be familiar with the sight of these falls, but nothing can replace the experience of seeing the breathtaking waters in person.

The total width of the fall is around 800m in the Brazilian territory and 1,900m on the Argentinean side. Depending on the river flow, the number of waterfalls ranges from 150 to 300.

With the majority of the large waterfalls being on the Argentinean side, the scenery is best admired from Brazil. The bulk plunges laterally into the Devil's Gorge, an 85m-high horseshoe-shaped waterfall.

There are two circuits - the upper (1,200m long) and lower (1,700m long) both come into close contact with vegetation. Guided tours can be arranged, and clients can take the ecological train to the Devil's Gorge station, where they literally stand on the falls.

Best rest: The Presidential Suite at the Iguacu Grand Hotel, Resort & Casino, Misiones, Argentina, includes a Paradise Suite with a dining room for eight people, and a Junior Suite with a jacuzzi (www.casinoIguacu.com).

Argentina's Sheraton Iguacu Resort & Spa, within Iguacu National Park offers incomparable views of the falls and the rainforest from its rooms and public areas (www.sheraton.com).

Dining: Restaurant El Jardin, at the Iguazu Grand Hotel, is famed for impeccable service and cuisine. The best dish is the local surubi (river fish) with passion fruit sauce and spiced manioc puree. The best table is located opposite the top pool, surrounded by tropical gardens.

The Sheraton Iguacu's restaurant features regional/ international gourmet cuisine with special dishes arranged by the hotel executive chef.

Other activities: Visit local Guarani Indians' aldeas (settlements). Other attractions include semi-precious stone mines at Wanda, bird watching and horse riding.

When: The climate is fairly constant throughout the year, at an average 25 degsC. December to March is the popular tourism period, but May and June affords warm weather and fewer travellers.

Client fit: Sporty types, nature lovers, older clients and honeymoon couples, families.

ANGEL FALLS, VENEZUELA

Why: This is the highest waterfall in the world, according to Guinness World Records, with a total drop of 979m (3,212 ft). The falls, named after the US pilot Jimmie Angel, are inaccessible by road, making the trip an adventure in itself.

Clients who enjoy a challenge can take the rugged route on foot, or in curiaras (Indian canoes) trekking upriver. A less taxing option is to view the falls by helicopter or renting a plane.True thrill-seekers can enjoy a more unusual perspective by BASE jumping (skydiving) from the fall's summit.

Best rest: Five-star accommodation has yet to reach the local area. However, Ucaima Camp, aka Jungle Rudy's (www.junglerudy.com), is recommended by Lost World Adventures (www.lostworld.com), which offers two and three-night packages starting at $447 (£228) per person plus airfare from Caracas.

Dining: At the camp.

Other activities: Swimming, walking, climbing.

When: The rainy season from June to November, as this is when there is enough water to get to the base of the falls by boat and increases the size of the falls.

Client fit: Those who enjoy a challenge.

VICTORIA FALLS, ZAMBIA/ZIMBABWE

Why: Few could argue the falls' inclusion as one of the seven wonders of the natural world is undeserved.

The massive curtain of falling water can be viewed from helicopters, microlight flights (with an open cockpit) or a more retro-style Tiger Moth plane.

Interest in these magnificent waters has given rise to a wealth of activities in the area to keep even the most adventurous client amused and challenged.

Best rest: The Royal Livingstone Hotel, Zambia, stretches along the banks of the Zambezi River, and consists of 17 colonial-style buildings, set amid indigenous trees and plants (www.sun-international.com).

On the Zimbabwe side, the historic Victoria Falls Hotel is set in lush, tropical gardens and offers a private path to the falls. Recently refurbished suites and guest rooms offer authentic, colonial-style furnishings.

Dining: The Royal Livingstone's main hotel includes a lounge, restaurant and bar. At the Victoria Falls Hotel, the Livingstone Room offers fine dining, while clients can dine under the stars at Stanley's Terrace.

Other activities: White-water rafting, riverboarding, bungee jumping, abseiling, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, jet boating, elephant-back safaris and golf.

When: Peak flood season - March and April - to see the falls in all its glory.

Client fit: Adrenaline-junkies.

CASCATA DELLE MARMORE, ITALY

Why: At 165m tall, these man-made falls are said to be the highest in Europe. But despite the lush greenery and frothing waters, the falls are actually the work of the ancient Romans rather than Mother Nature.

The falls are situated in a park with four footpaths, with upper and lower viewpoints. As the flow is turned on and off daily (usually between noon and 1pm, and 4pm to 5m) clients should visit when the gates are opened, to see the sudden, powerful rush of water.

Best rest: From the recently remodelled Hotel Valentino Terni (www.hotelvalentinoterni.com), clients can take a shuttle bus to the falls. The five suites at the Hotel Michelangelo Palace (www.michelangelohotelumbria.it) have individual whirl tubs. Named after the nearby abbey, San Pietro in Valle (www.sanpietroinvalle.com) is a historic residence 10km from the falls.

Dining: Piermarini is situated in Ferentillo village, around 15 km from the falls (+39 0744-78071) and specialises in truffle-based dishes. Eateries in Terni (7.7km from the falls) boasts a host of culinary delights, including pasta, salamis, game and local Orvieto wine.

A typical local dish is ciriole con il tartufo, a home-made pasta seasoned with truffles.

Other activities: Valnerina is scattered with medieval hilltop villages, while Terni boasts luxury shops, elegant cafes, local handcrafts and Christmas markets. Canoeing, climbing, bird watching, free-gliding and sky-diving are also available.

When: From March to September when the falls are open longer (till 9/10pm at weekends).

Client fit: History fans, foodies, including older clients.

NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA/USA

Why: Perhaps the most famous of all waterfalls, Niagara rendered wordsmith Charles Dickens "stunned", and continues to wow millions of visitors each year.

Clients can view the falls from a balcony area, a helicopter (www.infoniagara.com/attractions/heli), or take a walk behind the thundering waters. Boat trips are also available.

Best rest: The Sheraton and Hilton properties both overlook the waters, while Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls (www.greatwolflodge.com/Locations/Niagara) includes 406 family-sized suites, an indoor water park complex and an Aveda Concept Spa. The Embassy Suites Hotel Niagara Falls (www.embassysuitesniagara.com) is 100 yards to the brink of falls, with 512 two-room suites.

Dining: Clients can enjoy panoramic views at Rooftop Fallsview Grille at the boutique-style Renaissance Fallsview Hotel (www.renaissancefallsview.com), which overlooks the falls. The Tablerock Restaurant is right at the brink of the falls (www.niagaraparks.com).

Other activities: Visit The Daredevil Museum, where remnants of various vessels used to ride the falls are showcased. Clients can fly a plane with Air Combat Mission (www.infoniagara.com/attractions/aircombat). There is also hiking, biking and walking.

When: All-year round. Winter time is spectacular, if cold.

Client fit: Ideal for families.

VORINGSFOSSEN WATERFALL, NORWAY

Why: In a place known as the land of a thousand waterfalls, claiming to be the favourite is quite a boast. But Voringsfossen takes the crown as Norway's most famous and popular natural tourist attraction. It has a total fall of 182m, and the best views are found by the Fossli Hotel.

Best rest: Fossli Hotel, established in 1891, overlooks the waterfalls (www.fossli-hotel.com). Eidfjord Fjell and Fjord Hotel is a family-run hotel with mountain views (www.effh.no). The most popular hotel is Quality Hotel & Resort Voringfoss (www.eidfjord-hardanger.no).

Dining: Hardangerviddahallen Restaurant features traditional local cuisine such as roast reindeer, baked mountain trout and sour cream porridge (www.hardanger vidda.org). Quality Hotel& Resort Voringfoss' kitchen (www.eidfjord-hardanger.no) is also recommended.

Other activities: From climbing and glacier walking to bird watching or enjoying the views from a seaplane.

When: The end of May to September.

Client fit: All types.

HIGH FORCE FALLS, MIDDLETON-IN-TEESDALE, COUNTY DURHAM, UK

Why: A visit to the River Tees waterfall offers an ideal country weekend away. At 20m, it is not the highest waterfall in England, but it is certainly one of the UK's most impressive thanks to the powerful river. The pretty woodland walk leading to the water descends down a gentle slope on a well-maintained gravel path.

Best rest: Seaham Hall is a small, luxury hotel linked to the award-winning Serenity Spa (www.seaham-hall.com).The historic Gisborough Hall hotel's bedrooms and suites have been recently refurbished (www.gisborough-hall.co.uk).Surrounded by 150 acres of woodland, Paramount Redworth Hall Hotel promises exquisite food (www.paramount-hotels.co.uk).

Dining: Jesmond Dene House uses seasonal, locally sourced ingredients (www.jesmonddenehouse.co.uk). Award-winning Secco specialises in Italian dining, using seasonal ingredients and the best of Southern Italian staples (www.paradiso.co.uk/secco-ristorante-salentino).

Other activities: The Hartlepool Maritime Experience recreates life at the time of the Battle of Trafalgar. There's also white-water rafting, or a climb up Roseberry Topping for fabulous views of the valley.

When: All year round.

Client fit: Countryside fans, including older clients.

MILLAA MILLAA FALLS, QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

Why: The promise of rainforest walks and abundant wildlife should tempt clients in search of peace and quiet. The waterfalls, around 1.5 hours from Cairns, are surrounded by lush rainforest located on the Waterfalls Circuit, along with Zillie and Ellinjaa Falls. They cascade down to a pristine waterhole where clients can enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool water.

Best rest: For five-star luxury, book the Presidential Suite at The Reef Hotel & Casino in Cairns, around one hour from the falls. The hotel's Wildlife Dome exhibit features 100 species of animals. The Fur 'n' Feathers Rainforest Tree Houses (www.rainforesttreehouses.com.au) is situated in the Atherton Tablelands, a 15-minute drive from the falls. Clients can expect tropical birds, wild possums and hammocks outside and spacious living areas, glass-fronted fireplace, kitchen and lounges inside. Each house sleeps two to eight people.

Dining: The Kuranda Veranda Restaurant overlooks a tropical rainforest valley. Former Melbourne restaurateur David Coupe brings a fusion of local & Asian produce on a creative menu (www.kurandarainforestpark.com.au). Book well in advance for the cosy Foxwell Park, Malanda, with veranda tables overlooking the rolling hills of the Tablelands (www.foxwellpark.com.au).

Other activities: Alongside nature spotting, swimming and walking, visit the Mango Winery to sample the still and sparkling white wines that have been made out of this tasty fruit (www.goldendrop.com.au). On The Wallaby arrange tours including rainforest walks, volcanic crater lakes and the Millaa Millaa, Zillie, and Ellinjaa falls (www.onthewallaby.com).

When: Wet season is October to November, when the fall-flow is swollen and the rainforest is at its most lush.

Client fit: Nature lovers and romantic couples.

REICHENBACH FALLS, SWITZERLAND

Why: One for literature fans as much as nature lovers.

During a visit to Meiringen, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle was so impressed by the beauty of the Reichenbach Waterfall he staged the death of his hero Sherlock Holmes during battle with his arch rival Dr Moriarty here.

Visitors can walk up to the falls, or in the summer, take the Reichenbach Funicular to the very place where the fictional characters 'fell to their deaths'.

Best rest: The Hotel Giessbach, Brienz (www.giessbach.ch), is close to the Giessbach waterfalls. Even closer is the Hotel Alpin Sherpa (www.alpinsherpa.ch) in Meiringen.

Dining: The restaurant at the Hotel Victoria, Meiringen, is recommended.

Other activities: Open-air museum Ballenberg, Brienzer Rothorn, traditional woodcarving in the village Brienz, Aare gorge, the Trift bride (www.alpenregion.ch).

When: At the beginning of summer, where there is the most water, and throughout the season.

Client fit: Families, retirement couples, sporty types if walking.

BUYER'S GUIDE

Malachy O'Neill, Latin America Specialist, Audley Travel

When the USA's first lady Eleanor Roosevelt visited Iguacu, her first words were "poor Niagara". It's a combination of various elements that makes Iguacu so special. Primarily, there's nothing to match the sheer drama of so much water tumbling over the cliffs. However, the surrounding tropical forest and its spectacular flora and fauna, as well as the local Guarani Indian culture, all add to the region's charms.

Not surprisingly, it's popular with visitors, so accommodation is best booked well in advance. There are only two hotels inside the Iguacu National Park, the hotel Tropical das Cataratas on the Brazilian side of the border, and a Sheraton hotel on the Argentine side. Architecturally, the Tropical is more picturesque, while the Sheraton boasts rooms with unobstructed views of the falls.

If you're planning a trip, make sure you see the falls from both sides of the border. In Argentina, you'll cross rope bridges between the individual waterfalls, watching the water plunge hundreds of metres beneath your feet. To enjoy panoramic perspectives of the falls, though, you'll need to cross to Brazil. While you're there, you shouldn't miss the speedboat trip into the mouth of the falls, and if you have time, there's plenty more to see in the vicinity. Of particular interest are the remains of the Jesuit missions, the Itaipu dam in Paraguay.

www.audleytravel.com

INSIDER'S GUIDE

Stephanie Parr, planning assistant, Abercrombie & Kent

A spectacular UNESCO World Heritage site, the Argentine side of Iguacu has the best and most varied up-close views of the falls, while the Brazilian side has the spectacular panoramic views.

Of all the tall cascades that collectively make up Iguacu Falls, the semi-circular Devil's Throat is by far the most spectacular. It is the world's mightiest single waterfall (in terms of water-flow volume), and its incessant roar is deafening.

Kaieteur Falls, Guyana, is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in the world, with a free fall height of more than 700ft (that's five times the height of Niagara). It is one of the few places in the world where endangered species are easily observed as it is situated in Kaieteur National Park, located on the Guiana Shield, a plateau that is one of the world's oldest and remotest geological formations. The falls are accessible both by air and by land. By air, it is an hour's flight from Georgetown, the capital of Guyana.

Described by the Kololo tribe as 'Mosi-oa-Tunya' - 'the Smoke that Thunders', the Victoria Falls are a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River, bordering Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Home to some of the most spectacular natural scenery in the world, New Zealand's Milford Sound is a must for nature-lovers.

Last, but not least, made famous by James Bond's very first outing in Dr No, Dunn's River Falls is a must when visiting Jamaica.

www.abercrombiekent.co.uk.