Calling all adventure lovers and thrill seekers. This is your moment to rejoice. Revel in the fact that your favorite travel destinations might just offer something that suits your tastes better, adventures that are as off-the-beaten-path as they are glamorous and mainstream. Europe has always been known for its history, food and culture, but it is also one of the best adventure destinations in the world.
It is full of stunning natural beauty and awe-inspiring vistas that are ably backed by some of the best adventures you’ll ever experience. So if you’re willing to leave those plazas and museums a day or two early, one of the following adventure packages could be perfect for you.
Driving on the Grossglockner Alpine Road, Austria (above image)
The Grossglockner Alpine Road is possibly the most magnificent drive in Europe. It easily ranks with the very best as one of the most beautiful drives in the world, and is very famous among adventure road-trippers, particularly between spring and fall. The alpine road has been named after the highest peak of Austria and is considered to offer unparalleled views of the longest glacier in the country, the Pasterze. Most prefer to tackle those hair-rising turns in a car, but you can also explore particular sections of the road on bike and even descend to the glacier on foot!
Mountain Climbing and Paragliding, Mont Blanc, France
You don’t need an excuse to climb the highest peak of Europe. Sure, Mont Blanc is no Mount Everest, but it still puts you in elite company, gives you bragging rights of being at the very top of an entire continent. Mont Blanc has been attracting mountain climbers for decades with its challenging summit climbs, but it now attracts all kinds of adventure enthusiasts with its paragliding adventures that let you enjoy some of the most beautiful landscapes you’ll ever see.
Hiking the Berchtesgaden Alps, Germany
Berchtesgaden is truly a hiker’s paradise. Considered to be one of the most special places in the Bavarian Alps, this magical region is full of exciting trails that suit hikers with all skill levels. The most beautiful trail takes you around Konigssee, a picturesque lake set in the midst of sky-hugging mountains. And even if you’re not in an adventurous mood, you can simply avoid long hikes by choosing cable cars which ferry you to the best viewpoints in the area without forcing you to make any physical effort at all.
Sea Kayaking in Crete
Crete is most popular for its stunning houses that can be seen in all sorts of colors that range from the whitest of whites to beautiful pastels. The landscape also presents endless views of lush green farmlands and picturesque mountains, leaving you mesmerized with the beauty and simplicity on display. However, despite all that beauty, one of the biggest charms of Crete can be found in its waters. Crete is a major hub for sea kayaking in the region and while tourists crowd the beaches, you can expect to have the waves all to yourself. Paddle on crystal waters and have a blast, but don’t forget to visit iconic sights such as the ancient Venetian fortress and the ruins of Knossos.
Ice Climbing in Switzerland
If you don’t mind braving the cold, a week of mountaineering and ice climbing is as good an adventure as any. Brave the freezing cold and sleep in huts and bivouacs as you make your way through seemingly treacherous landscapes carrying provisions on your back, without ever complaining. The sheer beauty of the area binds you in a spell, making you forget about all that physical exertion, and the diversity leaves you speechless, satiated with the adventurous experiences all around you.
Canoeing in Scotland
If you’re dreaming of exploring the Scottish Highlands, the river is probably the best way to get there. Most of the towns lie along the waterway and you’ll get to see the region as it was always meant to be. A large portion of this area isn’t usually frequented by tourists, so you can actually expect hidden views and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Some of the highlights to look forward to include paddling along the foothills of the tallest mountain of Britain, crossing the Rannoch Moor, one of the remotest areas in the region and enjoying single-malts in towns whose water were used to make these whiskeys. Get ready for an unforgettable adrenaline packed experience on our once-in-a-lifetime free-fall Bungee Jump activity.
There is no better way to explore Rome than on foot. This ancient city is full of ruins of one of the greatest empires on the planet, and there is an architectural marvel to explore at every step. The sweeping vistas and lively squares make the area feel incredibly romantic while those cobblestone streets work wonders in working up the nostalgia. You can also walk from one medieval-era town to the other, or explore century-old farmers markets and vineyards. Walking in Rome is almost like seeing your history books come to life.
Here are some of Bookmundi’s Adventure Package in Rome:
Wildlife Expeditions, Spain
More than half of the Iberian peninsula was once home to the Iberian lynx, the rarest cat on the planet. Today, the lynx can only be found in the Andujar National Park in Andalucia and Donana National Park in Seville. Both these parks are perfect destinations for short adventures into the wild and offer just about everything you can think of – from guided hikes to exciting 4 x 4 safaris. Visitors also get a chance to learn more about conservation and check out other popular animals such as the Spanish imperial eagle and the mouflon wild sheep. But these national parks aren’t the only wildlife adventures that beckon travelers. We also recommend a dolphin watching tour in Bay of Gibraltar. The area is home to three dolphin species and is frequented by migratory whales as well.
Romania on a Bike
Beautiful mountains, picture-perfect scenery, ancient UNESCO protected villages and stunning forests, Romania really hasn’t changed for centuries. It is home to one of the last remaining expanses of wilderness in the continent and is steeped in ancient history and culture. Adventures don’t always need a sense of action to feel exciting, and sometimes, riding a bike can feel as amazing as diving into the great blue ocean. While touring Romania on a bike, it is essential to lose your smartphones and take your time exploring the area. Stop at villages, interact with the locals, discover hidden sites and talk to shepherds on magical hilltops. Sometimes, life feels best at its simplest.
Biking in Portugal
The southern parts of Portugal are famous for offering glimpses into a way of life that has remained unchanged for hundreds of years. Alentejo is where you get to see beautiful vineyards hidden among rolling hills, stunning olive grove, untouched forests and grand summer homes of Portuguese royalty. Along the way, you’ll also cross ancient pousadas and convents, many of which have been converted into luxury hotels. And if Alentejo is too out-of-the-box for you, simply head over to the seven hills tour of Lisbon, another exciting bike adventure that is sure to leave you speechless. You can also explore the southern neighborhoods of Lisbon by electric bike on a 3-hour ride.
If you’ve always dreamed of combining adventures such as mountain climbing, skiing, kayaking, sailing, diving, jumping, biking and rafting to the history and culture highs of Europe, this list of the top ten adventure packages in Europe is just for you. Each destination in this list can offer a life-changing experience, transforming the way you look at travel. Europe is, after all, the birthplace of adventure!