Untravelled Paths

Thursday, September 4, 2025

Top 4 Untravelled Paths Destinations to Celebrate New Year

Ditch the ordinary and ring in the New Year with a truly unforgettable adventure.

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, try something a little different, and start your year with a sense of wonder, look no further. At Untravelled Paths, we believe New Year should be about more than just fireworks and fizz (though we love those too!). Whether you’re seeking snowy magic, desert serenity, sky-high adventure or frozen fairytale landscapes, these four unique experiences offer the perfect way to welcome the New Year.

4. Mini Winter Slovenia Experience

New Year’s Eve in Ljubljana. New Year’s Day at Lake Bled.

Start your New Year in the heart of Europe with Slovenia’s storybook charm. Spend New Year’s Eve soaking up the festive atmosphere in Ljubljana—its cobbled streets and riverside cafés glow under twinkling lights, with local music, mulled wine, and fireworks adding to the magic. The adventure continues on New Year’s Day as you head south to the awe-inspiring UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves. In the afternoon, arrive at Lake Bled just in time for a golden sunset from the cliffside castle. After a night in a cosy hotel, enjoy a scenic train ride through snow-covered mountains and travel through the stunning Soča Valley. End your journey with two blissful nights in a luxury spa hotel in the peaceful Logar Valley – a perfect setting to unwind, reflect, and ease into the year ahead.

3. The Ice Hotel Experience

New Year’s Eve at the Hotel of Ice in Transylvania. New Year’s Day at Dracula’s Castle.

For a truly cool start to the year, head to the heart of the Romanian mountains and spend New Year’s Eve at the Hotel of Ice. Perched at Balea Lake and only accessible by cable car in winter, this frozen masterpiece offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Toast to the New Year surrounded by shimmering ice sculptures and snow-covered peaks. The Ice Hotel’s New Year’s celebration includes a festive dinner, lively entertainment, and a night in an actual room made of ice—complete with thermal sleeping bags! Add in snow activities, fairy-tale scenery, and Romanian hospitality, and you’ve got the recipe for an unforgettable New Year.

2. The Sahara Desert Experience

New Year’s Eve in the Sahara Desert. Watch the sunrise on New Year’s Day!

Trade snow for sand and see in the New Year beneath a sky full of stars. After exploring Morocco’s mountains, valleys, and kasbahs, you’ll arrive in the Sahara Desert for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. New Year’s Eve is spent in a traditional desert camp surrounded by towering dunes and silence. Enjoy a delicious Berber feast, rhythmic drumming around the fire, and a sky lit only by stars. No loud parties—just soul-stirring beauty and unforgettable moments. It’s a magical, grounding way to welcome a new beginning.

1. The Hot Air Balloon Experience – Cappadocia

New Year’s Eve in Cappadocia. Watch the sunrise on New Year’s Day from a Hot Air Balloon!

For a breathtakingly beautiful way to start the year, head to Cappadocia in Turkey, famous for its otherworldly landscapes and sky full of colourful hot air balloons. Spend New Year’s Eve in the charming town of Göreme, where you’ll enjoy local cuisine, a warm welcome, and festive celebrations under a starry sky. Then, rise early on New Year’s Day for a sunrise hot air balloon ride over fairy chimneys, valleys, and ancient cave dwellings. It’s one of the world’s most iconic travel experiences—and there’s something truly poetic about starting a new year floating above it all.

Start the year differently. Start it memorably. Start it with Untravelled Paths.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Top 4 Untravelled Paths Destinations to Celebrate New Year appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/top-4-untravelled-paths-destinations-to-celebrate-new-year/

Thursday, August 28, 2025

Winter Wildlife Experiences with Untravelled Paths

When you think of wildlife watching, you might imagine warm summer safaris or tropical jungles. But in reality, the winter months are often the best time of year for unforgettable encounters with nature. Across Europe, the quieter, snow-dusted landscapes make spotting elusive animals easier, while further afield, Africa bursts into life during its own seasonal changes. Whether you’re hoping to track predators in the Carpathians, spot rare cats in Spain, or witness great migrations in Botswana, winter opens the door to some of the world’s most magical wildlife experiences.

🐺 The Grey Wolf Experience, Romania

In the heart of Transylvania, the Carpathian Mountains provide one of Europe’s last true wildernesses and are home to the elusive grey wolf. Winter is the prime season for wolf tracking: fresh snow makes footprints more visible, and the hushed forests allow even the faintest howls to be heard. Accompanied by expert trackers, you’ll explore dense woodland and learn how to read the signs of these fascinating predators. The experience offers a rare opportunity not just to potentially glimpse wolves, but to gain a deeper understanding of their behaviour and their vital role in maintaining the ecosystem. Find out more about the experience here.

🐆 The Iberian Lynx Experience, Spain

One of the rarest cats in the world, the Iberian Lynx calls the rugged landscapes of Andalusia home. Once on the brink of extinction, their population has been steadily recovering thanks to conservation efforts. Winter is an especially good time to see them, as it coincides with their mating season when they’re more active and easier to spot. Against a backdrop of cork oak forests and rolling hills, you’ll set out with experienced guides who know the best areas to search. With patience and a bit of luck, you could witness this beautiful spotted feline in its natural habitat. Find out more about the experience here.

🦁 The Western Cape Safari Experience, South Africa

If you fancy swapping Europe’s snow for sunshine, South Africa’s Western Cape offers a spectacular safari opportunity during the northern winter months. While many parts of Africa are entering rainy season, the Western Cape stays drier, making it easier to see wildlife gathering around waterholes. Just a short drive from Cape Town, you’ll find reserves where elephants, lions, rhinos, and giraffes roam free. Experienced rangers bring the stories of these landscapes to life, sharing their knowledge of both the big names of the animal kingdom and the smaller, often overlooked creatures that are just as fascinating. Find out more about the experience here.

🐘 The Desert to Delta Experience, Botswana

For the ultimate winter wildlife adventure, few places rival Botswana and the authentic nature of a Mobile Safari. While Europe is wrapped in frost, Botswana’s summer season transforms the landscapes of the Kalahari Desert and the Okavango Delta into thriving habitats teeming with life. On the salt pans, you’ll witness vast herds of zebra and wildebeest on migration, often shadowed by prowling predators. In the Delta, the waterways become a haven for elephants, hippos, and countless bird species. Guided safaris here are immersive, whether by 4×4, on foot, or by mokoro (traditional canoe). Botswana offers one of the most pristine and unspoilt safari experiences in Africa, a true bucket-list journey. Find out more about the experience here.

Why Winter Wildlife?

From snow tracks that reveal hidden predators to migrations that transform entire landscapes, the winter months bring a unique magic to wildlife watching. Europe’s quieter forests and mountains become easier to read, while Africa’s southern regions open up their most spectacular safari seasons. Whether you’re dreaming of wolves in Romania, lynx in Spain, or elephants in Botswana, winter is your invitation to see the wild in a whole new light.

So, why not make this winter extraordinary? Let Untravelled Paths take you closer to nature with wildlife experiences that are as enriching as they are unforgettable.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Winter Wildlife Experiences with Untravelled Paths appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/winter-wildlife-experiences-with-untravelled-paths/

The Best 10 Last Minute Autumn Mini Break Destinations

When summer draws to a close, many of us start to feel the itch for another adventure. The good news? Autumn is the perfect time for a mini break. With fewer crowds, better value, and beautiful seasonal scenery, a last-minute getaway can be exactly what you need to recharge. From fairy-tale towns and dramatic coastlines to mountains and deserts, here are our top 10 destinations for an unforgettable autumn escape.

1. Morocco

Autumn is one of the very best times to visit Morocco, with cooler temperatures making travel far more comfortable. Explore the colourful souks of Marrakech, head to the windswept Atlantic coast at Essaouira, or embark on an unforgettable adventure into the Sahara Desert, riding camels across golden dunes before sleeping under a star-strewn sky. Morocco offers something for everyone – and in autumn, it’s at its very best.

2. Montenegro

Montenegro may be small, but it packs in huge variety. Most visitors head to the glittering Bay of Kotor with its Venetian old town and dramatic fjord-like views – and rightly so. But autumn is also an ideal time to explore the often-overlooked mountains of Durmitor National Park, where you can hike among forests, glacial lakes, and rugged peaks without the summer crowds. Coastal charm and alpine beauty, all in one mini break.

3. Portugal

Portugal enjoys glorious sunshine well into autumn, making it a brilliant last-minute choice. Explore Lisbon’s trams, tiled facades, and lively neighbourhoods, or sip port by the riverside in Porto. Down south, the Algarve is still warm enough for beach days, with golden sands and rugged cliffs that feel far less crowded in autumn.

4. Italy

Italy hardly needs an introduction, but autumn gives this classic destination a more authentic and relaxed charm. Explore Rome, Florence, or Venice with fewer tourists, or head to culinary hotspots like Puglia, known for its rustic olive groves and trulli houses, and Bologna, the foodie capital famous for pasta and cured meats. From historic cities to rolling vineyards, Italy is a last-minute mini break destination that never disappoints.

5. Turkey

Straddling Europe and Asia, Turkey offers an intoxicating blend of culture, history, and landscapes. Autumn is perfect for wandering Istanbul’s bazaars and mosques, while Cappadocia’s fairy chimneys are magical under soft autumn light – especially from a hot-air balloon. If you’re after sun and sea, the Turkish Riviera still enjoys warm weather well into autumn, making it perfect for a coastal escape.

6. Slovenia

Slovenia is small but spectacular. The capital, Ljubljana, charms with its cobbled streets, riverside cafes, and laid-back vibe. Lake Bled is even more picturesque in autumn, its island church framed by fiery forests. For nature lovers, Triglav National Park offers hiking trails through dramatic Alpine scenery without the summer crowds. A perfect blend of culture and nature.

7. Romania

Romania is one of Europe’s most underrated gems and an incredible choice for an autumn mini break. Transylvania, in particular, is steeped in history and legend – from Dracula’s Castle to charming medieval towns like Brașov, Sibiu, and Sighișoara. Autumn is also prime time for spotting brown bears in the wild and wandering through colourful villages tucked away in rolling hills. Add in the crisp mountain air, hearty cuisine, and a warm local welcome, and Romania is an adventure like no other.

8. Greece

Autumn is perhaps the best season to visit Greece. The stifling heat of summer has faded, leaving perfect temperatures for sightseeing in Athens or exploring the myths and monasteries of Meteora. On the islands, from Santorini to Crete, the crowds are gone, yet the seas are still warm enough for a swim. Add harvest festivals and hearty cuisine, and Greece is a delight.

9. Bosnia & Herzegovina

This fascinating country offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. In Mostar, the iconic Stari Most bridge arches gracefully over the river, while nearby the Kravica Waterfalls cascade dramatically amidst golden autumn foliage. Visit the serene Blagaj Monastery, built into a cliff, or soak up the vibrant energy of Sarajevo with its mix of Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian, and modern influences. Bosnia is a feast for the senses – and perfect for a short but rewarding escape.

10. Albania

Albania is finally getting the recognition it deserves, and autumn is an excellent time to discover it. Along the coast, you’ll find pristine beaches and turquoise waters without the summer crowds. In the north, the Accursed Mountains offer breathtaking hikes through dramatic scenery, colourful villages, and unspoilt wilderness. With its mix of Mediterranean charm and rugged beauty, Albania is a mini break with a difference.

Ready for Your Autumn Adventure?

Whether you’re after medieval magic in Romania, coastal beauty in Montenegro, vibrant culture in Turkey, or desert adventures in Morocco, autumn is the perfect time for a spontaneous mini break. With Untravelled Paths, you can discover hidden gems, authentic experiences, and unique destinations that go far beyond the ordinary. So why wait? Pack a bag, embrace the season, and let your next adventure begin.

Written by James Chisnall

The post The Best 10 Last Minute Autumn Mini Break Destinations appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/the-best-10-last-minute-autumn-mini-break-destinations/

Thursday, August 21, 2025

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Andalusia During the Winter

When most travellers think of Andalusia, they picture sun-soaked summers, but winter might just be the region’s best-kept secret. With no crowds, better-value flights and accommodation, and pleasantly mild weather, winter is a wonderful time to explore southern Spain. Instead of battling scorching summer heat and long queues, you’ll enjoy blue skies, authentic encounters with locals, and a slower, more genuine rhythm of life.

Here are the top five reasons why Andalusia should be on your winter travel list.

1. Explore the Beautiful City of Seville

Seville is one of Spain’s most captivating cities, and in winter you can explore its charm without the stifling summer heat. Take in the grandeur of the Seville Cathedral, the largest Gothic cathedral in the world, and climb the Giralda Tower for panoramic views over the city. Wander through the Real Alcázar, a masterpiece of Moorish architecture, and get lost in the cobbled lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter. Don’t miss the spectacular Plaza de España, where you can stroll among tiled alcoves representing Spain’s provinces. With fewer tourists around, you’ll have the chance to truly soak up the city’s beauty at your own pace.

2. Immerse Yourself in Tapas Culture

Winter is the perfect season to dive into Andalusia’s famous tapas culture. Cosy taverns and bustling bars serve up an endless array of small plates, from perfectly cured jamón ibérico to sizzling garlic prawns and traditional stews. The relaxed atmosphere of the colder months makes tapas hopping even more enjoyable, as you wander from bar to bar sampling different flavours while mingling with locals. Pair your tapas with a glass of fino sherry or robust Rioja for the ultimate Andalusian experience.

3. Discover the Wildlife in Sierra de Andújar National Park

For those who love the great outdoors, Sierra de Andújar National Park is a must. This rugged and beautiful park is one of the best places to see rare Iberian wildlife. In particular, it’s home to the elusive Iberian lynx, one of the world’s most endangered wild cats. Winter offers the best chance to spot them, as it’s mating season and the lynx are more active and visible. Alongside these graceful cats, you may also encounter deer, wild boar, and golden eagles soaring above the mountains – making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.

4. Enjoy an Intimate Flamenco Dancing Performance

Andalusia is the birthplace of flamenco, and nothing compares to experiencing it live. In winter, smaller venues and tablaos host intimate performances where you can feel every stamp of the dancer’s heels, every strum of the guitar, and every soulful note of the singer. These passionate shows are raw, emotional, and utterly unforgettable – the very essence of Andalusian culture.

5. Visit the Stunning Córdoba Cathedral

The Córdoba Cathedral-Mosque (Mezquita) is one of Spain’s most remarkable monuments and a symbol of Andalusia’s rich cultural heritage. Its endless rows of red-and-white arches, intricate mosaics, and the striking Renaissance nave make it an architectural wonder. Visiting in winter means fewer crowds, allowing you to fully appreciate the scale and detail of this unique site in peace. Afterward, stroll through Córdoba’s charming old town, with its whitewashed courtyards and historic alleyways, for a perfect winter’s day out.

Experience Andalusia in Winter with Untravelled Paths

From the lively streets of Seville and the warmth of tapas culture to the wild beauty of Sierra de Andújar and the passion of flamenco, Andalusia in winter offers a truly authentic experience. With mild weather, better value, and fewer crowds, it’s the perfect time to discover the heart and soul of southern Spain.

✨ Ready to explore Andalusia this winter? Let Untravelled Paths take you there on the 4-night Iberian Lynx Adventure, which includes all these unforgettable experiences!

Written by James Chisnall

The post Top 5 Reasons to Visit Andalusia During the Winter appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/top-5-reasons-to-visit-andalusia-during-the-winter/

The Top Things to Do in Transylvania During Winter

When most people think of Transylvania, they imagine gothic castles, mysterious legends, and misty forests. But visit in winter, and you’ll discover an entirely different side of this enchanting Romanian region. With snow-dusted mountains, twinkling medieval squares, and unique adventures you won’t find anywhere else in Europe, Transylvania in winter feels straight out of a fairytale.

Here are the top things to do in Transylvania during the colder months.

❄️ Stay at the Hotel of Ice

Tucked high in the Făgăraș Mountains, right on the frozen shores of Bâlea Lake, the Hotel of Ice is one of Transylvania’s most extraordinary winter experiences. Rebuilt every year from ice blocks cut straight from the lake, this glittering hotel is truly one-of-a-kind.

Getting there is an adventure in itself. You’ll glide high above the legendary Transfăgărășan Highway on the cable car, marvelling at breathtaking mountain views as you make your way up to Bâlea Lake. Once there, you can explore rooms made entirely of ice, admire the sculpted décor, and warm up under thick blankets and reindeer skins for a night you’ll never forget.

Don’t miss the delicious 4-course Ice Hotel dinner, served in an icy dining hall where the glow of candlelight dances across frosty walls – a magical dining experience unlike anything else.

🐺 Track the Grey Wolf

For a thrilling wilderness adventure, winter is the best time to go wolf tracking in the Carpathian Mountains. The snow makes paw prints easier to spot, and the forests fall quieter under their winter blanket, giving you a greater chance of spotting or hearing one of these elusive predators. Guided by experienced trackers, you’ll learn about the fascinating behaviour of grey wolves while exploring their natural habitat – a true highlight for nature lovers.

🐾 Go Husky Sledding

Feel the rush of the Arctic in the heart of Romania with husky sledding near Miercurea Ciuc. Led by a team of enthusiastic huskies, you’ll glide across snowy fields with stunning views of the surrounding foothills. The crisp mountain air, the sound of paws padding across fresh snow, and the sheer thrill of the ride make this an unmissable winter adventure.

🧛 Visit Dracula’s Castle

No journey to Transylvania would be complete without stepping inside the legendary Bran Castle, better known worldwide as Dracula’s Castle. Towering dramatically above the surrounding valleys, the castle’s turrets, narrow staircases, and hidden chambers create an atmosphere straight out of gothic folklore.

For a truly unforgettable experience, plan your visit in early November when Bran Castle hosts its famous Halloween Party. With incredible costumes, music, and a thrilling gothic vibe, it’s one of the most unique celebrations in the world. Even in the quieter winter months, the castle surrounded by snow feels like something from a dark fairytale.

🎄 Explore Medieval Towns & Christmas Markets

Winter is also the perfect time to explore Transylvania’s medieval towns, each of which becomes even more magical under a dusting of snow.

Brașov charms with its cobbled streets and impressive main square, which comes alive with a festive Christmas market in December.
Sibiu, famous for its colourful houses and historic architecture, is home to one of Romania’s biggest and best Christmas markets, full of mulled wine, traditional crafts, and seasonal treats.
Sighișoara, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, is like stepping back in time, with winding streets and towers that look even more atmospheric in winter.

Together, these towns offer a perfect blend of history, culture, and festive cheer.

Why Visit Transylvania in Winter?

From the frozen wonderland of the Hotel of Ice and the thrill of wolf tracking, to the charm of Christmas markets and the legends of Dracula’s Castle, Transylvania in winter is brimming with unforgettable experiences. This is a place where fairytales come alive, history meets adventure, and every moment feels magical.

So, if you’re ready for a winter break with a difference, it’s time to pack your warmest clothes and let Untravelled Paths take you on a journey through Transylvania’s winter wonderland.

Written by James Chisnall

The post The Top Things to Do in Transylvania During Winter appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/the-top-things-to-do-in-transylvania-during-winter/

Tuesday, August 5, 2025

Vlad Țepeș and the Legend of Dracula: Following the Bloodline Through Romania

When you hear the name Dracula, chances are your mind jumps to fangs, cloaks, and eerie Transylvanian castles. But behind the vampire myth lies the dark and fascinating true story of Vlad Țepeș, also known as Vlad the Impaler – a 15th-century prince whose brutal methods earned him both fear and fame.

At Untravelled Paths, we go beyond the clichés to uncover the real history behind the legend. Our 4-night Dracula Experience takes you deep into Romania’s dramatic landscape to explore the key places connected to Vlad Țepeș and the Dracula myth – from medieval citadels to haunting ruins. Here’s a glimpse into the man, the myth, and the must-see locations that bring his story to life.

Who Was Vlad Țepeș?

Born in 1431 in Sighișoara, Vlad Țepeș (meaning “the Impaler”) was a voivode (prince) of Wallachia who became infamous for his harsh rule and gruesome punishments – particularly impalement. While his cruelty is well documented, he’s also remembered by Romanians as a fierce defender of his homeland against the Ottomans.

Vlad’s story eventually inspired Bram Stoker’s fictional Count Dracula, though the two figures differ greatly. Still, the shadowy forests, misty mountains, and crumbling castles of Romania remain the perfect setting for tales of blood and betrayal.

Sighișoara: The Birthplace of Vlad Țepeș

Your journey begins in Sighișoara, one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval citadels and the birthplace of Vlad himself. Nestled in the heart of Transylvania, this UNESCO-listed town is a maze of cobbled streets, colourful houses, and a looming clock tower.

You can even visit the house where Vlad was born, now a restaurant and museum. Standing in the same spot where the infamous prince entered the world is both surreal and strangely intimate.

Travel Tip: Explore Sighișoara at dusk for an atmospheric stroll without the crowds.

Târgoviște: Vlad’s Former Capital

Next stop is Târgoviște, the former capital of Wallachia and a key stronghold in Vlad’s reign. The Princely Court (Curtea Domnească) is still partially standing, with its striking Chindia Tower offering views over the town.

This is where Vlad ruled with an iron fist – and where many of his enemies met their grisly end. The ruins are rich in history and offer insight into the political turmoil of the 15th century.

Poenari Castle: Vlad’s True Fortress

Unlike the more famous Bran Castle, Poenari Castle is the real deal when it comes to Vlad Țepeș. Perched high on a cliff overlooking the Argeș River, Poenari was a strategic fortress used by Vlad during his campaigns. To reach it, you’ll need to climb 1,480 steps – but the view (and eerie atmosphere) is more than worth it.

Though now in ruins, Poenari remains one of the most evocative and authentic stops on the Dracula trail. It’s remote, rugged, and exactly the kind of place you’d expect the real Vlad to haunt.

Did you know? Legend has it that Vlad’s first wife threw herself from the cliffs of Poenari to avoid capture by the Ottomans.

Bran Castle: The Mythical Home of Dracula

Arguably the most famous castle in Romania, Bran Castle is often marketed as “Dracula’s Castle”. While Vlad Țepeș may never have lived here, the castle’s dramatic towers and Gothic interiors certainly match Stoker’s fictional setting.

That said, Vlad is believed to have passed through the castle during his time in the region, and its connection to the Dracula legend draws visitors from around the world. It’s the perfect mix of history and fantasy.

Untravelled Insight: We visit Bran Castle later in the day to avoid the peak crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience.

Snagov Monastery: The Final Resting Place?

Tucked away on an island north of Bucharest, Snagov Monastery is said to be the final resting place of Vlad the Impaler. The monastery’s peaceful setting contrasts with the violent life of the man buried within its walls – though whether his remains are actually there remains a mystery.

It’s a hauntingly poetic end to the journey – serene, reflective, and steeped in centuries-old legends.

Experience the Legend for Yourself

Our 4-night Dracula Experience is more than a spooky tour – it’s a deep dive into Romanian history, culture, and folklore. Along the way, you’ll walk in Vlad’s footsteps, visit some of Romania’s most iconic locations, and uncover the truth behind one of the world’s most enduring legends.

From medieval towns to mountain fortresses, it’s a journey that blends the real and the mythical – and we promise, it’s unforgettable.

Ready to Follow the Legend?

Join us on the Dracula Experience and discover the untold story of Vlad Țepeș – not just the vampire, but the man behind the myth.

History has never been this haunting.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Vlad Țepeș and the Legend of Dracula: Following the Bloodline Through Romania appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/dracula-experience-romania/