Untravelled Paths

Thursday, February 5, 2026

The Most Romantic Untravelled Paths Experiences to Share With Someone Special

Some trips are fun. Others are interesting. And then there are journeys that change how you remember a place and each other.

At Untravelled Paths, we believe the most meaningful travel experiences are the ones you share. Whether it’s watching a sunrise in silence, standing beneath a sky full of stars, or spotting wildlife together in the wild, these are the moments that stay with you long after you’re home.

If you’re looking for a truly unforgettable escape with your special person, here are the most romantic Untravelled Paths experiences, designed for connection, wonder and shared memories.

The Lapland Experience, Finland

Northern lights, firelit saunas and Arctic romance

If winter romance is your thing, Lapland is pure magic.

You’ll stay in beautiful glass accommodation, where you can watch the northern lights dance across the sky from the warmth of your bed, a moment that feels both intimate and unforgettable.

By day, share exhilarating experiences together:

Husky sledding through snow-covered forests
Ice plunges followed by traditional Finnish saunas
Fireside meals and candlelit evenings

There’s something about the Arctic that brings people closer. Maybe it’s the quiet. Maybe it’s the shared adventure. Or maybe it’s simply knowing you’re experiencing something extraordinary together.

Ideal for couples who love winter, nature and once-in-a-lifetime moments.

The Hot Air Ballooning Experience, Turkey

Sunrise skies and timeless cities

Few experiences feel as cinematic as floating above Cappadocia at sunrise.

As the sky softens from night to day, you’ll drift gently over fairy chimneys, valleys and ancient landscapes and sharing a moment that feels suspended in time. It’s peaceful, breathtaking and incredibly romantic.

On the ground, your journey continues through:

Boutique cave hotels
Quiet walks through historic villages
Time exploring Istanbul, where continents, cultures and centuries collide

From sunrise in the skies to evenings wandering atmospheric streets, this experience blends romance, culture and gentle adventure beautifully.

Perfect for couples who love iconic moments with depth and meaning.

The Sicily Experience, Italy

Food, wine and effortless romance

Our newest experience is also one of our most indulgent.

Sicily is made for romance: sun-warmed cities, dramatic coastlines, slow lunches and long evenings with wine on the table. Days are spent exploring historic towns, seaside villages and vibrant markets; evenings are for lingering conversations and unforgettable meals.

Living the life:

Italian food at its very best
Local wines and family-run restaurants
Beautiful cities, coastlines and countryside

There’s no rush here. Just the joy of being somewhere beautiful together, enjoying all the things Italy does best.

Ideal for couples who love culture, cuisine and relaxed Mediterranean romance.

The Brown Bear Experience, Romania

Shared awe, powerful moments

Some experiences bring people together not through comfort, but through shared emotion.

Seeing a wild brown bear in its natural habitat is one of those moments. It’s quiet, humbling and deeply moving and when you experience it together, it becomes something you’ll talk about for years.

In Romania’s forests, you’ll observe these magnificent animals responsibly and respectfully, guided by experts who understand the landscape and its wildlife. It’s not about adrenaline, it’s about presence.

Shared Highlights:

The rare opportunity to see wild brown bears in their natural habitat
Expert local guides who prioritise respect, safety and conservation
Shared moments of stillness and wonder that create lifelong memories

Sharing a moment like this creates a bond that’s hard to replicate elsewhere: a memory rooted in awe, respect and connection.

Perfect for couples who value meaningful, once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

The Sahara Desert Experience, Morocco

Stars, silence and the magic of the desert

There’s something deeply romantic about the desert.

Your journey begins in Marrakesh, where colour, music and spice-filled air set the tone for adventure. From there, you travel south towards the vastness of the Sahara — landscapes slowly softening, crowds disappearing, time stretching.

The highlight? A sunset camel ride across golden dunes, when the desert glows and the world feels impossibly still. As night falls, you’ll sit by the fire, share traditional food, and eventually lie beneath a sky overflowing with stars.

Moments of Magic:

Time exploring the colours, souks and hidden corners of Marrakesh
A sunset camel ride across the dunes of the Sahara
Evenings around the fire in a desert camp, sharing traditional food
Lying beneath an open sky filled with stars, far from any light pollution

A journey made for slowing down, disconnecting and sharing quiet, unforgettable moments together.

No distractions. No noise. Just the two of you, wrapped in silence and starlight, a rare kind of closeness that modern life rarely allows.

Perfect for couples seeking romance, stillness and a sense of wonder.

Why Romantic Travel With Untravelled Paths Feels Different

Our experiences aren’t about ticking boxes or rushing between highlights. They’re designed to give you:

Space to slow down
Moments that feel personal, not staged
Shared experiences that deepen connection

Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply making time for each other, these journeys offer romance with substance — the kind that stays with you long after the journey ends.

Looking to plan a meaningful escape with someone special? We’d love to help you find the experience that feels just right for both of you – then get in touch.

Written by James Chisnall

The post The Most Romantic Untravelled Paths Experiences to Share With Someone Special appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/romantic-experiences-to-share-with-someone-special/

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

Why May Is Secretly the Best Month to Visit the Balkans

When most people think about travelling to the Balkans, they picture July and August: bright sun, busy old towns and packed coastlines. But those in the know will tell you a different story.

May is the Balkans’ best-kept secret.
It’s the month when landscapes are at their greenest, temperatures are ideal for exploring, and the region still feels wonderfully unhurried.

If you’re looking for an authentic, crowd-free experience, here’s why May might just be the perfect time to visit the Balkans.

1. Perfect Weather for Actually Exploring

One of the biggest advantages of travelling to the Balkans in May is the weather.

Spring has fully arrived, but the summer heat hasn’t yet set in. Across countries like Montenegro, Albania, Bosnia & Herzegovina and North Macedonia, you can expect:

Warm, comfortable days (around 18–25°C)
Cooler evenings — ideal for sleeping and dining outdoors
Plenty of sunshine without the oppressive heat

This is the kind of weather that invites you to walk old towns, hike mountain trails, explore national parks and linger over long lunches — without constantly looking for shade.

2. Fewer Crowds, More Local Life

By May, the Balkans are awake but not overwhelmed.

Cruise ships haven’t reached peak season, European school holidays haven’t started, and many destinations are still refreshingly calm. That means:

Historic towns you can explore without queues
Coastal villages that still feel lived-in, not staged
More genuine interactions with locals

Instead of battling crowds, you’ll see people going about daily life — fishermen mending nets, cafés filling with regulars, markets at their most colourful. This is slow, meaningful travel, exactly how the Balkans are meant to be experienced.

3. The Landscapes Are at Their Most Beautiful

If you care about scenery, May is unbeatable.

Spring rains have done their work, and the region is lush and vibrant:

Mountains are green and full of wildflowers
Rivers and waterfalls are flowing at full force
Vineyards and olive groves are coming back to life

From the dramatic peaks of Durmitor National Park to the valleys of Albania’s countryside, May shows the Balkans at their most photogenic — and most alive.

4. It’s the Best Month for Active Travel

The Balkans are made for active, outdoor travel, and May hits the sweet spot.

It’s ideal for:

Hiking and walking holidays
Cycling quiet country roads
Kayaking, rafting and lake swimming
Scenic road trips without traffic or heat

Later in summer, many of these activities become harder (or less enjoyable) due to high temperatures. In May, you can do more, see more and enjoy it properly.

5. Better Value, Without Compromise

Travelling in May often means better value — without sacrificing quality.

Accommodation prices are generally lower than in peak summer, guides and drivers are more available, and popular places don’t yet charge “high season” premiums. You’re getting:

More choice
Better service
A calmer, more personal experience

It’s one of those rare times where value and quality align.

6. Festivals, Food and Seasonal Traditions

May is a wonderful month for culture and food across the Balkans, marking the transition from spring into early summer.

Some highlights include:

Saint George’s Day (Đurđevdan / Hıdırellez) – Celebrated in early May across Serbia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Montenegro and North Macedonia. It’s one of the most important spring festivals in the region, associated with renewal, music, riverside gatherings and traditional food.
Wine and olive oil events in Montenegro and Albania – May often brings small, local tastings and harvest celebrations, particularly around Lake Skadar and coastal Albania, where family-run producers open their doors before the busy summer season.

Seasonally, May is when Balkan kitchens really come into their own:

Fresh cheeses, wild greens and herbs feature heavily in local dishes
Early strawberries, cherries and honey appear in markets
Menus shift towards lighter, outdoor eating — grilled vegetables, lake fish and slow lunches shared in village courtyards

It’s a time when food, festivals and daily life feel closely connected — and visitors are welcomed into traditions rather than watching them from the sidelines.

So, Is May the Best Time to Visit the Balkans?

If you’re looking for:

Comfortable weather
Fewer tourists
Lush landscapes
Better value
A more authentic connection with the places you visit

Then yes — May is quietly the best month to travel in the Balkans.

At Untravelled Paths, it’s one of our favourite times to explore the region. It’s when the Balkans feel most like themselves — before the crowds arrive, and while the sense of discovery is still intact.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Why May Is Secretly the Best Month to Visit the Balkans appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/why-may-is-secretly-the-best-month-to-visit-the-balkans/

Friday, January 30, 2026

Where Should You Go Based on Your Travel Personality?

At Untravelled Paths, we believe the best trips often include a bit of everything – great food, meaningful cultural encounters, time in nature and moments that genuinely take your breath away. That said, we also know that everyone has their stand-out travel passions. Whether you travel for food, culture, wildlife or once-in-a-lifetime experiences, certain destinations shine brighter than the rest.

Here’s our guide to where to go based on your travel personality, featuring the countries and regions that consistently deliver unforgettable experiences for our travellers.

Foodies

Italy: If your travels revolve around what’s on the plate, Italy needs little introduction, but venture beyond the obvious and it becomes even more rewarding. In Puglia, food is simple, seasonal and deeply tied to the land. Expect handmade orecchiette, fresh burrata straight from the farm and long lunches fuelled by local olive oil and wine. Bologna, often called Italy’s food capital, is a dream for serious food lovers, with rich ragù, fresh pasta and bustling markets that celebrate tradition at its finest.

Slovenia: Maybe surprise even seasoned foodies. This small country boasts an impressively sophisticated food and wine culture, shaped by Alpine, Mediterranean and Balkan influences. Slovenia is also home to an extraordinary number of Michelin-starred restaurants, including world-renowned names that focus on sustainability, foraging and storytelling through food. From natural wines to innovative tasting menus, Slovenia is fast becoming one of Europe’s most exciting gastronomic destinations.

Local Flavour & Culture

Georgia: For travellers who crave genuine cultural connection, Georgia offers one of the richest experiences anywhere in the world. Sitting at the crossroads of Europe and Asia, Georgia’s culture has been shaped by Persian, Ottoman, Russian and Caucasian influences. Ancient monasteries cling to mountainsides, polyphonic singing fills village homes and hospitality is legendary. Food and wine are inseparable from culture here, with traditional feasts (supras) offering a deep insight into Georgian identity.

Bosnia & Herzegovina: Equally compelling, with a cultural tapestry woven from Ottoman, Austro-Hungarian and Slavic heritage. In cities like Sarajevo and Mostar, mosques, churches and synagogues exist side by side, telling powerful stories of coexistence and resilience. Coffee rituals, local markets and heartfelt conversations with locals reveal a country that rewards curiosity. For travellers seeking authentic cultural travel, both destinations offer depth, warmth and unforgettable human connection.

Into the Wild

South Africa: If wildlife and raw nature are what draw you in, South Africa is hard to beat. It’s one of the few places in the world where you can experience marine wildlife, including whales, seals and penguins, alongside classic safari adventures. The country is famous for Big Five safaris, offering incredible game viewing in diverse landscapes, from vast savannahs to private reserves that prioritise conservation and ethical travel.

Romania: Europe’s wild secret. Home to some of the continent’s last great wilderness areas, it supports healthy populations of brown bears, grey wolves and European bison. The Carpathian Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop for wildlife tracking, while the Danube Delta is a UNESCO-listed paradise for birdlife and slow, nature-focused exploration. For travellers who want to reconnect with nature without crowds, Romania delivers true wild Europe experiences.

Great Outdoors & Active Adventure

Slovenia: For those who feel most alive outdoors, Slovenia is a playground of adventure. In a single trip, you can hike in the Julian Alps, kayak turquoise rivers, cycle through vineyards and explore underground caves. Its compact size makes it perfect for active travel, while excellent infrastructure ensures experiences are accessible without feeling overdeveloped.

Montenegro: Offers a more rugged but equally thrilling outdoor scene. Dramatic mountains plunge into the Adriatic Sea, creating endless opportunities for hiking, rafting, canyoning and kayaking. Durmitor National Park, the Tara Canyon and the Bay of Kotor provide jaw-dropping backdrops for adventure. Both countries are ideal for travellers seeking active holidays in Europe that combine challenge, scenery and cultural richness.

Once-in-a-Lifetime

Lapland: Some journeys are simply unforgettable, and Lapland is one of them. Winter here is pure magic, think husky sledding, snowmobiling, reindeer encounters and nights spent searching for the Northern Lights. Add in stays at unique glass-roofed accommodation, where you can watch the Arctic sky from your bed, and Lapland becomes a true bucket-list destination.

Botswana: Offers a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience unlike anywhere else in Africa. Luxury mobile safaris move with the seasons, placing you at the heart of the wilderness. The Okavango Delta is a highlight, with mokoro canoe safaris and extraordinary wildlife encounters, including the Big Five. From tracking meerkats to sleeping under the stars in the Makgadikgadi pans, Botswana delivers profound, soul-stirring moments that stay with you forever.

Love a Bit of Everything? Go Epic.

If you see yourself in more than one travel personality, you’re not alone. That’s exactly why we created the Untravelled Paths Epic Journeys. Designed for curious, open-minded travellers, it brings together culture, nature, adventure and unforgettable experiences into one seamless, life-changing trip.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Where Should You Go Based on Your Travel Personality? appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/where-should-you-go-based-on-your-travel-personality/

Thursday, January 29, 2026

Untravelled Paths’ Favourite Eastern European Cities You’ll Fall in Love With

Eastern Europe is packed with character, history and unforgettable landscapes — and at Untravelled Paths, these five cities sit firmly at the top of our favourites list. From medieval old towns and dramatic mountains to café culture and resilient creativity, each destination offers something truly distinctive. If you’re searching for authentic Eastern European cities, rich culture and places that still feel refreshingly undiscovered, these should be on your radar.

Kotor, Montenegro – Where Mountains Meet the Sea

Kotor is one of the most breathtaking cities in Eastern Europe, tucked deep within the dramatic Bay of Kotor and surrounded by towering limestone mountains. Its UNESCO-listed Old Town is a maze of cobbled lanes, Venetian palaces and quiet squares that feel untouched by time. What makes Kotor truly special is the contrast — one moment you’re sipping coffee by the water, the next you’re climbing ancient fortress walls with jaw-dropping views across the bay.

Beyond its beauty, Kotor has a wonderfully laid-back atmosphere. Cruise ships may pass through, but linger a little longer and you’ll discover a local rhythm that rewards slow travel. Hike the Ladder of Kotor, explore hidden churches, or take a boat trip to Our Lady of the Rocks. For travellers seeking scenic Eastern European cities with history, nature and soul, Kotor delivers in spades.

Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina – Where Cultures Truly Meet

Sarajevo is one of Europe’s most fascinating and emotionally powerful cities. Often described as the place “where East meets West”, it’s a city where mosques, synagogues, Orthodox and Catholic churches stand within minutes of each other. Walking through Sarajevo feels like travelling through centuries in a single afternoon — from Ottoman bazaars to Austro-Hungarian boulevards.

What sets Sarajevo apart is its warmth and resilience. Despite its turbulent past, the city pulses with creativity, humour and hospitality. Coffee culture is sacred here, and sitting in Baščaršija with a traditional Bosnian coffee is a must. Add in incredible food, powerful museums and a surrounding landscape of green hills, and Sarajevo becomes a deeply moving destination. For those wanting authentic cultural experiences in Eastern Europe, Sarajevo is unforgettable.

Ljubljana, Slovenia – Europe’s Greenest Capital

Ljubljana may be small, but it punches far above its weight. Consistently ranked among Europe’s greenest and most liveable cities, the Slovenian capital is charming, youthful and effortlessly stylish. The car-free city centre, leafy riverbanks and abundance of outdoor cafés make it a joy to explore on foot.

Ljubljana’s uniqueness lies in its balance — historic architecture sits comfortably alongside modern design, while nature is never far away. Climb up to Ljubljana Castle for panoramic views, wander across the city’s iconic bridges, or enjoy the buzzing food scene driven by local, seasonal ingredients. With its eco-conscious mindset, friendly locals and relaxed pace, Ljubljana is perfect for travellers seeking sustainable Eastern European city breaks without sacrificing culture or atmosphere.

Sibiu, Romania – A Medieval Gem in Transylvania

Sibiu feels like something out of a storybook. Located in the heart of Transylvania, this beautifully preserved medieval city is known for its colourful houses, grand squares and famously “watchful” rooftops. Its historic centre is compact yet packed with charm, making it ideal for slow, immersive exploration.

What makes Sibiu special is how seamlessly it blends history with creativity. Once a European Capital of Culture, the city boasts vibrant arts, excellent museums and a growing food scene rooted in Saxon and Romanian traditions. Step outside the city and you’ll find the dramatic Carpathian Mountains, perfect for hiking and road trips. For travellers searching for underrated Eastern European cities, Sibiu offers culture, beauty and authenticity without the crowds.

Tirana, Albania – Colourful, Creative and Constantly Evolving

Tirana is one of the most exciting and surprising capitals in Eastern Europe. Bold, energetic and unapologetically creative, it’s a city that has reinvented itself through colour, art and community. Once-grey buildings now burst with murals, cafés spill onto the streets, and the atmosphere is optimistic and forward-looking.

What truly sets Tirana apart is its raw authenticity. You can explore Cold War bunkers turned museums, stroll around Skanderbeg Square, then escape to nearby mountains or beaches within an hour. The food scene is outstanding, blending Mediterranean and Balkan flavours at excellent value. For adventurous travellers keen to explore emerging Eastern European destinations, Tirana offers a vibrant introduction to a country full of surprises.

Ready to Explore Eastern Europe Differently?

These cities are just a glimpse of why we believe Eastern Europe is one of the most rewarding regions to explore. At Untravelled Paths, we specialise in journeys that go beyond the obvious — slower, deeper and more meaningful travel experiences that connect you with place and people.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Untravelled Paths’ Favourite Eastern European Cities You’ll Fall in Love With appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/favourite-eastern-european-cities/

Monday, January 12, 2026

The Best Activities on Our Lapland Experience for Adults and Children

I’ve just returned from Lapland with my family, and even after visiting many times over the years while creating and refining our Untravelled Paths experiences, this trip felt different. Seeing Lapland through the eyes of my child, wide-eyed, excited and completely absorbed, made it even more magical. It reminded me why this destination is quite simply the ultimate festive escape for families, especially those travelling with younger children.

Lapland has a reputation for being expensive, which it certainly is, but it offers better value for families as adding a child doesn’t increase the cost dramatically, which makes the overall experience far more justifiable – particularly when you consider just how much is packed into a short stay. And with 2026 set to be the final year of heightened Northern Lights activity, there’s never been a better time to go.

Here are some of the standout activities that made our recent trip so special, for adults and children alike, along with our own holiday snaps!

Husky Sledding

This was an instant favourite for all of us. There’s something unforgettable about gliding silently through snowy forests, powered by a team of enthusiastic huskies. Children absolutely love meeting the dogs beforehand, while adults appreciate the sheer beauty of the landscape. It’s thrilling without being overwhelming – a perfect introduction to Arctic adventure.

Skiing for All Levels

Lapland is an excellent place to ski, particularly for beginners and families. The slopes are gentle, well organised and far less intimidating than larger Alpine resorts. Whether you’re completely new or brushing up on your technique, it’s accessible, enjoyable and stress-free.

Traditional Sauna & Ice Plunge

A very Finnish experience and surprisingly family-friendly. After warming up in a traditional wooden sauna, the brave can try an ice plunge – optional, of course! For adults, it’s invigorating and deeply relaxing. For children, it’s all part of the fun and a great story to take home.

Feeding Reindeer

A calm, memorable experience that younger children in particular adore. Feeding reindeer offers a chance to slow things down, learn about Sámi culture and get close to these iconic Arctic animals in a respectful, meaningful way.

Visiting an Ice Hotel

Another highlight, especially for first-timers. Visiting an Ice Hotel is fascinating in itself, but there’s also the option to eat there or even stay overnight, which we can organise on request. It’s a unique experience that adds an extra layer of adventure to the trip.

Sleeping Under the Northern Lights in a Glass Hotel Room

This is one of those experiences that stays with you forever. Falling asleep beneath the stars, and if you’re lucky the Northern Lights, is truly special. For those who can afford the upgrade, I strongly recommend choosing a glass room with a private hot tub. It’s the perfect way to end the day, children absolutely love them, and there’s something unforgettable about soaking under the Arctic sky with the aurora dancing overhead.

Visiting Santa’s Village

If you’re travelling with young children, Santa’s Village is pure magic. Meeting Santa himself is, unsurprisingly, the highlight — but there’s so much more. Activities such as the Ice Bar, rubber ring ice slides, snowmobiling for children, and plenty of festive attractions make this far more than a quick visit. It’s immersive, joyful and wonderfully festive without feeling tacky.

As our trip came to an end, it really struck me that these were just the activities we chose. Lapland offers so much more — from reindeer rides, ice karting, snowshoeing, ice skating, Northern Lights snow mobiling tours and countless other winter experiences. You could return time and time again and still discover something new.

Is Lapland Worth the Cost?

Honestly? Yes. This isn’t a cheap adventure, but it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for all of us. Packing so much into just three nights kept the children busy, engaged and completely off their screens — something that felt increasingly rare and incredibly valuable.

Ready to Experience Lapland?

Lapland books up well in advance, especially for festive dates and peak Northern Lights seasons. If this is an experience you’ve been considering, particularly with 2026 marking the final year of heightened aurora activity, I’d strongly encourage planning sooner rather than later.

If you’d like to join us on our Lapland Experience, we’d love to help you create memories your family will talk about for years to come. Don’t over think it, just book it, you won’t regret it.

Written by James Chisnall

The post The Best Activities on Our Lapland Experience for Adults and Children appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/the-best-activities-on-our-lapland-experience/