Adventure: it means something different for all of us. Whatever your definition of adventure, Europe provides it in spades – iconic mountains, thunderous rivers and theatrical coastlines make the perfect playground for an active escape, whatever the activity or the difficulty you desire. Here are some of our favourite European summer adventures; escape the everyday and live the adventure!
Leisurely/Moderate
Combine a couple of hours’ activity each day with a leisurely lunch and plenty of free time to relax. There’s no rush, why not soak up the atmosphere along the way?
Walking the Amalfi Coast
Exodus’ bestselling holiday for 2014, 2015 and 2016 – it’s hard to argue with the facts. Wander through olive groves, secret gardens and along the windswept Italian cliffs of what could be Europe’s finest coast.
Cycle the Baltics
Discover the charms of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania by bike, following pleasantly quiet backroads through shady forests and past pristine lakes. The virtually flat route links historic castles with surprisingly fashion-conscious cities.
Cycling the Vineyards of Burgundy
Up to six days biking (two rides are entirely optional) through traffic-free vineyards and canals of France’s world-renowned wine region. This is a self-guided route, so you move entirely at your own pace.
Moderate
Get your heartbeat going for between five and seven hours each day, stretch out those muscles and wake up your senses amidst spectacular scenery. No previous experience necessary for any of these – grab your gear, let’s go.
Ardeche Mixed Activity Week
A new day, a new activity on this multi-sports week in France. The spectacular mountains, valleys and gorges attract adventure-seekers from all over. A highlight is the two day kayak through the gorge, complete with overnight bivouac. Now that’s an adventure!
Cycling the Dalmatian Coast
Idyllic islands, sun-drenched coastline and UNESCO status towns make Croatia a sure winner. Island hopping doesn’t have to be idle – grab your bike and make the most of lavender-scented Hvar and medieval Korcula from the saddle.
Walking the Picos de Europa
For a great value escape to sunny Spain you’d be hard pushed to find better: five fully-guided day walks in the dramatic limestone peaks, all breakfasts and most meals included – not to mention the family-run Hotel Torrecerredo won a certificate of excellence from Tripadvisor.
Spanish Pyrenees Activity Week (Family Adventure)
Active families look no further: hassle-free holidays are here. A quick hop from home and you’re transported into a natural playground for canyoning, cycling and trekking – all you need to do is arrive.
Moderate/Challenging
For adventure with a bit more bite, add a challenging edge. Confidence is key; be sure of your fitness and the rest you can learn along the way. It’s time to earn those endorphins.
Tour du Mont Blanc Camping Trek
An accumulative height gain and loss of about 10,000m, circumnavigating the highest peak in Western Europe crossing France, Switzerland and Italy: this is no small achievement. Follow the iconic route over six high passes and through seven green, glacier fed valleys.
Slovenia Mixed Activity
A gratifying adrenaline rush through the Slovene Alps, encompassing every thrill the Soca River has to offer. “The Emerald Beauty” is perfect for an action-packed adventure, with each day presenting a new activity and a new challenge.
Tuscany: Florence to Lucca Ride
Forget the flat, you’ll need some pedal power for this Apennine adventure. Take to two wheels on Ridgeback Element 2015 Hybrid bikes along scenic mountain roads to the famous coastline of the Cinque Terre.
