3 of the Most Beautiful Travel Destinations Along the Volvo Ocean Race

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There is no dispute that the Volvo Ocean Race is the toughest offshore sailing race in the world. Known as the Everest of racing, it begins in Alicante, Spain and spans 39,379 miles (almost two laps around the equator!) with stops in 9 countries before finishing in Gothenburg, Sweden – a whopping nine months later!

One of the most inspiring teams this year is Team SCA, the first all-female team to compete in the Volvo Ocean Race! It’s compromised of 13 women from all over the world ranging in age from 28-40. These women come from all walks of life. Two of them have sailed solo both ways around the world, others are moms, working women and even two sisters sailing together. These truly inspiring women make me realize that you’re never too young, old, settled anything to accomplish amazing things. 

Now in the sixth month of the round-the-world race, Team SCA is competing in leg 5 – sailing for an estimated 20 days between Auckland, New Zealand and Itajaí, Brazil.  Along the way teams enjoy the view and culture of  some of the most incredible cities and we’re sharing what we think are three of the most beautiful travel destinations along the route.

Alicante

Located along the Costa Blanca, is the city and port of Alicante. This historic Mediterranean port of Spain is famous for the Castle of Santa Bárbara, which sits high above the city, and the port of Alicante in addition to the Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari chapel and Explanada de España. 

Santa Barbara Castle

With outstanding views of the city, this 14th century medieval castle boasts many original features and an expansive history of Alicante. It’s location on Mount Benacantil offers great views of the city and is breathtaking lit up at night.

Concatedral de San Nicolás de Bari

Pope John XXIII gave this church the title of cathedral in 1959 and it’s known as one of the best examples of Spanish baroque design. It’s rich in history dating back to the expulsion of the moors in 

The Promenade aka Explanada de España

Line along the length of this city center are countless palm trees but what really draws your eye are the 6.5 million marble stones paving the center. The promenade is acknowledged as one of the most lovely in Spain and it’s a draw for locals of Alicante with it’s friendly atmosphere and concerts that take place along the length.  

Cape Town

In addition to being the first stop of the Volvo Ocean race, this city also boasts a world famous harbor, in addition to landmarks like Table Mountain and Cape Point.

Boulders Beach

In addition to the charming fishing village of Kalk Bay, Boulders Beach is home to one of the world’s unique mainland penguin colonies. It’s also located near the stunning views of Cape Point and Chapmans Peak. Sunset anyone?

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is one of the first things guests see as the arrive at Cape Town by land, air or sea. The mountain offers a good hike to the top or you can take the 85-year-old Table Mountain Cableway which provides a gentle, quick and vista-full trip up to the top of the mountain. There you will have unparalleled views of Cape Town, Robben Island, the Peninsula and beyond.

Abu Dhabi

If you love taking in the city and it’s gorgeous skyline, you won’t find many more inspiring than Abu Dhabi. This city lies on a T-shaped island jutting into the Persian Gulf from the central western coast. The architecturally stunning city actually consists of more than 200 islands and boasts the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which took 11 years to build and where the founder of the country, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, lies buried. 

Emirates Palace

One of the most iconic landmarks is the Emirates Palace. This luxury hotel stretches of a kilometer from wing to wing, featuring 114 domes, gold, crystal and mother of pearl interiors, 1002 chandeliers and two handmade wall display carpets that each weigh a ton. 

Yas Island

Last but not least, an emerging entertainment destination within a 30 minute drive of the UAE capital, Yas Island is home to the state-of-the-art Yas Marina Circuit and host to the annual F1™ Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Get to grips with Yas Marina Circuit through a series of track day packages, including ‘Driver Experiences’, ‘Passenger Experiences’, ‘Private Driving Tuition’ programmes and ‘Racing License Courses’.

SCA believes that everyone should have the opportunity to live life to the fullest, and we are committed to creating value for people and nature. To champion these ideals, SCA launches Amazing Women Everywhere, to celebrate women who have a positive impact on others.

The women of SCA’s all-female racing team, Team SCA, exemplify this spirit. They have come from all walks of life and backgrounds to take on one of the world’s most challenging endeavors, the Volvo Ocean Race. For nine months, their journey of hard work and determination will inspire millions around the world. Follow along with Team SCA on Facebook!

We aim to gather thousands of stories from all over the world and inspire thousands more by illustrating that amazing women truly are everywhere. Visit http://www.teamsca.com/awemosaic to submit a photo of an amazing woman in your life.

This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of SCA. The opinions and text are all mine.