If you have the urge to go wild and escape among some of Mother Nature’s greatest handiwork, a wilderness adventure in Europe has all the ingredients to make you feel alive. Veering away from the crowds to untouched corners can have a seriously positive effect on your wellbeing! Imagine the indescribable feeling of coming face to face with wildlife in its natural habitat or listening to the roar of a thundering waterfall as it gushes from dizzying heights. These are the kind of experiences that will change your perception of the world and spark your sense of adventure.
You don’t have to travel to the ends of the Earth either, with such incredible destinations in Europe, you’re just a few hours from the wilderness, where social distancing is simple.
Get back to nature in Iceland
Known for its simmering, volcanic landscapes where geysers explode, glaciers creak and calve below mountains, and the Northern Lights gyrate across the winter skies – Iceland is a symphony of extremes. On the Iceland Explorer tour, you can witness many of the most popular sites such as Geysir, Gullfoss, and Thingvellir, as well as the lesser-known gems. Summer sees the landscape bathed in the lingering Midnight Sun, while winter brings you glimpses of the dazzling Aurora Borealis. But whatever season you visit Iceland, you’ll be swept into the wonder and drama of its spellbinding wilderness.
As you journey between precipitous fjords, huge ice caps and powerful waterfalls, keep your eyes peeled for the many species of birds that circle overhead. Far from the madding crowds, the volcanic Lake Myvatn, surrounded by lava fields and craters, lures you into its otherworldly aura. But it’s not all about nature on the Iceland Explorer tour, you can also delve into the country’s history and culture at the city of Akureyri where you’ll visit the Lutheran church and explore the local shops and cafes.
Escape to the Finnish wilderness
Finland is arguably most famous for its vast, silent wilderness and winter wonderland scenery where snow-laden trees form magical sculptures. Dotted with rustic wooden cabins, Oulanka National Park is your base during the Finnish Wilderness Week – the closest you’ll ever get to stepping into a scene from a fairy tale.
This tour is packed with winter activities that not only get your adrenalin flowing but also introduce you to the local wildlife. You can try your hand at dogsledding through the forests of Riisitunturi National Park, snowshoeing in search of the Northern Lights, and cross-country skiing at Juuma Lake – social distancing at its finest!
Take a walk on Romania’s wild side
Circled by the Carpathian Mountains, Romania is a hauntingly beautiful country, home to the infamous region of Transylvania. For many, this may not be an obvious choice of destination for wilderness adventures, but you won’t get much more remote than this “forgotten corner”. Our Carpathian Walking & Bears trip takes you on fascinating nature walks through mountains, canyons and untouched forests where you’ll have the opportunity to spot brown bears, wolves, and lynx. En route, you’ll pass through medieval towns and villages that are rich in traditional folklore. Some of the highlights of the tour include a trip to Bran Castle, famous for being the home of Count Dracula; a ride on a horse-drawn cart through Barza Valley; brown bear watching; and a cable car ride up to Postavarul Peak.
To find out more about the spectacular experiences you can have when you explore the European wilderness, click here.
