Kick off the New Year with unforgettable travel experiences that inspire a fresh start. From magical sunrises over exotic landscapes to thrilling outdoor adventures, these handpicked destinations offer the perfect blend of excitement, renewal, and beauty. Embrace new perspectives and create lasting memories to welcome the year ahead. Here we list 3 of our Untravelled Paths favourites.
Float in a Hot Air Balloon at Sunrise
Starting the New Year with a hot air balloon ride over Cappadocia is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that combines adventure with natural beauty. Cappadocia’s surreal landscape—its towering rock formations, sprawling valleys, and ancient cave dwellings—creates a mesmerizing view, especially from the air. As the sun rises on January 1, the cool winter air provides ideal flying conditions, often creating a gentle mist that adds to the mystery of the region’s iconic “fairy chimneys.”
Visitors typically gather in the early morning for a pre-flight briefing before climbing into the basket, ready to soar over valleys like Göreme, Love Valley, and Rose Valley. The light of dawn gradually illuminates the landscape, casting warm colors over Cappadocia’s unique rock formations and snowy winter scenes. Floating in near silence, with only the occasional burst of the balloon burner, passengers experience the thrill of drifting above this historic, awe-inspiring terrain.
For many, a hot air balloon ride on New Year’s Day is more than just an adventure; it’s a symbolic way to start fresh, looking at the world from a new perspective. It’s a magical beginning to the year, one that travelers will remember for a lifetime.
Watch the Sunset and Rise over the Desert
Imagine welcoming the New Year with a breathtaking sunset camel ride through the Sahara Desert, en route to a luxury tented camp nestled among golden dunes. As the sun dips below the horizon, the shifting sands glow with hues of orange and pink, setting the scene for an enchanting evening. Each step of the camel takes you deeper into the desert’s tranquility, leaving behind the bustle of everyday life and inviting you to embrace the present moment.
Arriving at your luxurious tent, you’ll find traditional decor paired with modern comforts, offering a perfect blend of rustic charm and refined relaxation. As New Year’s Eve unfolds, enjoy an evening of celebration with traditional Moroccan cuisine, live music, and local storytelling under a sky dense with stars. The desert’s silence enhances the magic, creating an intimate connection with nature and a sense of peace.
The celebration continues early on New Year’s Day with the breathtaking experience of watching the sunrise over the Sahara. Golden light spreads across the dunes, illuminating the vast landscape as the first day of the new year begins. It’s a powerful, grounding experience that symbolizes renewal and fills you with excitement for the year ahead.
Dine, Drink and Sleep in the Hotel of Ice in Transylvania
Celebrate New Year’s Eve with an extraordinary adventure at the Hotel of Ice in Transylvania, nestled over 2,000 meters high in the Făgăraș Mountains. Your journey begins with a scenic cable car ride, ascending through snow-covered landscapes to this unique winter wonderland, a hotel built entirely from ice and snow each season. Once you arrive, the beauty of the ice architecture will captivate you—from crystalline walls to intricately carved sculptures.
The evening begins with a gourmet four-course dinner served at tables and chairs made entirely of ice, lit with soft lights that enhance the wintry ambiance. Enjoy traditional Romanian and international dishes prepared especially for this celebration, all while surrounded by the enchanting icy décor.
Afterward, head to the Ice Bar, where the drinks are as cold as the environment, and toast to the new year with fellow guests. Dance the night away in this magical setting, savoring the lively energy of this one-of-a-kind celebration. Finally, retreat to your cozy ice room, equipped with thick thermal sleeping bags and reindeer furs, where you’ll sleep on an ice bed for a truly unique night. Waking up in the heart of a winter paradise, you’ll begin the new year with memories that will last a lifetime.
If any of these wonderful bucket list experiences have caught your eye and you want to start 2025 with a bang, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Cape Town, a city where natural beauty meets vibrant culture, offers an unforgettable mix of stunning landscapes, rich history, and adventure. From iconic mountains and pristine beaches to world-class wine regions and unique wildlife encounters, this South African gem provides endless experiences for every traveller. It’s a city I personally lived in on and off for 5 years, I absolutely loved my time there and it’s hard to think of a more beautiful city with such an exotic and vibrant culture. These are my top ten must-do activities but I could have named many more!
Visiting Table Mountain
A trip to Cape Town isn’t complete without exploring Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Take the iconic cable car up the mountain for sweeping views of the city, coastline, and surrounding peaks. The rotating car allows you to enjoy 360-degree views as you ascend, but if you’re up for a challenge, there are several scenic hiking trails like Platteklip Gorge. Once at the summit, explore the marked pathways, which reveal breathtaking views and unique flora. Sunsets here are magical, casting golden hues over the landscape and offering unforgettable photo opportunities.
Wine Tasting and Lunch in Franschhoek
Nestled in a picturesque valley, Franschhoek is renowned as the culinary and wine capital of South Africa. Take a day trip from Cape Town to indulge in wine tasting at historic vineyards that date back to the 17th century. Many estates offer wine pairings with local cuisine, allowing you to savour award-winning wines with fresh, gourmet dishes. Consider taking the Franschhoek Wine Tram to explore multiple estates with ease. The valley’s scenic beauty, with mountain views and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see, makes this an ideal day for both relaxation and indulgence.
Kayaking Along the Atlantic Seaboard
For a unique perspective of Cape Town, take a guided kayaking trip along the Atlantic Seaboard. You’ll paddle past stunning beaches like Clifton and Camps Bay, with the rugged backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. In calm waters, lucky kayakers may even spot dolphins, seals, and, during certain seasons, whales. The morning’s calm seas provide the best conditions, and the fresh sea air and stunning surroundings make this an exhilarating yet peaceful adventure. Kayaking offers a memorable way to explore Cape Town’s coastline up close, combining scenic beauty with light, enjoyable activity.
Visit Cape Point and the Penguins of Boulders Beach
Explore the dramatic beauty of Cape Point, located within Table Mountain National Park, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. After a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak, discover Cape Point’s rugged cliffs, historic lighthouse, and panoramic views. On your way back, stop by Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town, where a colony of African penguins resides. The beach’s sheltered coves allow you to get up close to these charming birds, which are endemic to the area. The combination of Cape Point’s wild landscapes and Boulders Beach’s adorable penguins makes for an unforgettable day of natural beauty and wildlife.
Sunset Hike Up Lion’s Head
Lion’s Head offers one of Cape Town’s most iconic hikes, especially at sunset. The hike, which takes about 1-2 hours, involves a moderate climb with some rock scrambling near the summit. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with views over Table Mountain, the city, and the Atlantic coastline. The golden hour provides stunning lighting for photography, as the sun dips over the ocean and the city lights begin to twinkle below. It’s a popular activity for locals and visitors alike, with an incredible 360-degree view from the top, making it the perfect end to a Cape Town day.
Swimming with Seals in Hout Bay
For a thrilling encounter with marine life, head to Hout Bay and dive into the Atlantic with Cape fur seals. Guided snorkeling tours offer a safe way to swim alongside these playful creatures in their natural habitat. Known for their curiosity, the seals often approach snorkelers, making this an unforgettable and interactive experience. The crystal-clear waters of Duiker Island provide excellent visibility, allowing you to watch seals twist and turn with impressive agility. This activity is both family-friendly and eco-conscious, led by experienced guides dedicated to preserving the marine environment while creating memorable interactions with these friendly locals.
People watching in Camps Bay
Camps Bay is Cape Town’s answer to beachfront luxury, lined with trendy cafes, chic restaurants, and palm trees against a backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountains. The white-sand beach is ideal for sunbathing, while the vibrant promenade offers prime people-watching opportunities. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely afternoon sipping cocktails at ocean-view bars or trying fresh seafood at renowned restaurants. A sunset visit is especially spectacular, as the sky transforms with pastel colors, casting a warm glow over the bustling beach scene. Camps Bay’s lively atmosphere makes it a great spot to relax, people-watch, and soak in Cape Town’s social scene.
Picnic Lunch in Noordhoek Cape Point Vineyards
Located in Noordhoek with views of mountains, vineyards, and the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Point Vineyards is a stunning location for a picnic lunch. Reserve a pre-packed picnic basket filled with gourmet treats and local wines to enjoy at a comfortable outdoor seating area. Visitors can lounge on the lawn or under shaded picnic spots while savoring fresh, locally sourced foods and award-winning wines. On a clear day, the view extends to Long Beach, adding to the tranquility. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic meal, Cape Point Vineyards offers a relaxed, scenic dining experience.
Stroll around Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden
Nestled against the slopes of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is one of the world’s most beautiful botanical gardens. With over 7,000 plant species, many of which are native to South Africa, the garden showcases the region’s unique biodiversity. Wander through lush pathways, discover colorful fynbos, and enjoy the iconic tree canopy walkway with sweeping views. Kirstenbosch also hosts summer concerts, allowing visitors to enjoy live music surrounded by nature. Perfect for a relaxing day outdoors, Kirstenbosch combines natural beauty with educational displays, offering a peaceful escape and an introduction to South Africa’s incredible plant life.
Sample Fresh Produce at the Oranjezicht City Farm Market
A Saturday visit to the Oranjezicht City Farm Market is a must for foodies and locals alike. Located near the V&A Waterfront, this vibrant farmer’s market offers everything from organic produce to artisanal foods and handmade goods. Sample freshly baked bread, craft cheeses, exotic fruits, and delicious street food, all while supporting local farmers and artisans. The market’s lively atmosphere is perfect for mingling, shopping, and tasting local flavours. Visitors can enjoy breakfast with ocean views or grab a coffee to sip as they explore. With its community vibe and high-quality offerings, Oranjezicht is a Cape Town favourite for good reason.
If you’re interested in visiting the stunning city of Cape Town and doing some or all of the above, then have a look at our epic journeys to South Africa and don’t hesitate to get in touch. Also it’s worth noting that we will happily tailor experiences as well.
When visiting Iceland, one of the first places on people’s bucket lists is the mystical Blue Lagoon with its fluorescent blue alien-like geothermal water, but it’s not the only option now. This provides a potential dilemma of which to visit. Now dilemma’s are not something we like to leave unsolved so on our latest research visit to Iceland, we thought we’d give them both a go and let you know our feedback! First, though we’ve given you an overview of both.
The Blue Lagoon
The Blue Lagoon in Iceland is a world-renowned geothermal spa, offers a one-of-a-kind experience amidst breathtaking natural landscapes. Located in a lava field in the Reykjanes Peninsula, just 40 minutes from Reykjavík and 20 minutes from Keflavík International Airport, it has become one of Iceland’s most iconic destinations.
The lagoon’s mineral-rich, milky-blue waters are naturally heated to a soothing 37–40°C (98–104°F), making it a perfect place to relax regardless of the weather. Its water is supplied by the nearby Svartsengi geothermal power plant, where deep underground hot water mixes with silica, algae, and minerals, giving the lagoon its unique colour and reputed skin-nourishing properties.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of amenities, including in-water massages, saunas, steam rooms, and a swim-up bar. The Blue Lagoon also offers a luxurious retreat experience at its nearby hotel, where guests can indulge in exclusive spa treatments and enjoy private access to smaller lagoons.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, natural beauty, or a memorable wellness experience, the Blue Lagoon is a must-visit destination on any Icelandic itinerary, blending modern luxury with the raw power of Iceland’s geothermal energy.
Sky Lagoon
The Sky Lagoon is one of Iceland’s newest geothermal spa experiences, offering a serene escape just minutes from downtown Reykjavík. Opened in 2021, this luxurious lagoon immerses visitors in a blend of modern elegance and Icelandic tradition, making it an ideal stop for those seeking both relaxation and a connection to Iceland’s natural beauty.
Set against the backdrop of the North Atlantic Ocean, Sky Lagoon’s infinity-edge design allows bathers to soak while taking in unobstructed views of the sea, rugged cliffs, and often, dramatic sunsets or even the Northern Lights during winter months. The geothermal waters, heated to a comfortable 38–40°C (100–104°F), provide the ultimate relaxation, enveloping guests in warmth regardless of the weather.
A highlight of the Sky Lagoon experience is the seven-step Ritual, inspired by traditional Icelandic bathing culture. This rejuvenating journey includes a refreshing cold plunge, a cleansing body scrub with local salt, and time in the sauna, steam room, and cold mist. This therapeutic cycle leaves visitors feeling invigorated and refreshed.
With its modern design, stunning views, and emphasis on wellness, the Sky Lagoon offers a tranquil and rejuvenating experience, perfect for those looking to relax and recharge while exploring Iceland.
So which is better?
In terms of actual spa experience, this is an easy one. The Sky Lagoon definitely has a less touristy feel, manages its crowds better and feels classier. It was busy when we visited, the car park was full but it didn’t feel overcrowded. The seven-step ritual was managed very well and it left you feeling as though you’d had a unique experience. The views are stunning and all from the backdrop of a outdoor thermal spa chiselled into volcanic rock.
However, the Blue Lagoon is the Blue Lagoon and the allure of the fluorescent blue box-ticking water is strong! There are just certain places you have to go when visiting if you’ve not been before… the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania or The Colosseum in Rome, regardless of what you’ve heard, you need to decide for yourself! And that’s not to say the experience is a bad one at the Blue Lagoon, far from it, it’s still a pick yourself moment as you bath in a blight blue geothermal pool in the middle of an old lava field near a volcano that’s even erupted this year! But it does feel a little more chaotic maneuvering the crowded changing rooms and queuing for your face masks and/or drinks. It’s worth noting that we visited when the car park 25% full so we can only imagine what it’s like when it’s full during the peak of the day.
So if you are faced with the same dilemma, then you’ll need to decide what’s important to you, if it’s the experience, then you should book the Sky Lagoon, but if it’s the “instagramable” shots then the Blue Lagoon is for you. Alternatively, you can just swing past the Blue Lagoon, on arrival (it’s near the airport) and have your picture taken by the blue pools outside of the complex and head on to the Sky Lagoon later in your trip and experience the 7-step ritual! Whichever you choose you’ll still enjoy yourself in this island of fantasy that is Iceland.
If you’re potentially interested in Iceland please don’t hesitate to register this with us at info@untravelledpaths.com. We are working on a fabulous once in a life time trip there as we speak so we’ll be able to let you know as soon as this is released!
On our latest visit to Slovenia to test out some new and exciting additions to our Slovenia experiences for next year, we decided to revisit arguably one of Slovenia’s most impressive highlights – the UNESCO-protected Skocjan Caves. As always, it never fails to disappoint, it’s a true must-visit destination even for the most casual of cave visitors, it’s impossible not to be impressed. So join us as we take a closer look as this cave system.
The Škocjan Caves in Slovenia are often hailed as one of Europe’s most spectacular cave systems, and it’s easy to see why. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this breathtaking natural wonder offers an unparalleled journey through a subterranean world that feels both magical and mysterious. Located in the heart of Slovenia’s Karst region, the caves are home to one of the world’s largest underground canyons, carved over millennia by the powerful Reka River.
What sets Škocjan apart from other caves in Europe is its sheer scale and grandeur. The underground chambers are vast, with some sections soaring up to 100 meters in height, making you feel as though you’ve entered a massive cathedral carved by nature. The Martel Chamber, one of Europe’s largest underground chambers, leaves visitors awestruck by its size and the intricate stalactites and stalagmites that fill the space.
A highlight for many is walking across the suspended bridge that spans the rushing river below, providing dramatic views of the canyon and giving you a true sense of the cave’s immense depth. The caves also boast a rich ecosystem, harbouring rare species that thrive in this unique environment.
Škocjan Caves offer an immersive experience of the wonders of the natural world. With its vast, cathedral-like chambers, breathtaking underground rivers, and exceptional geological formations, it’s no wonder that the Škocjan Caves is easily be considered Europe’s most spectacular and awe-inspiring cave system.
If you would like to see these breathtakingly beautiful caves, then visit them with us on one of our Slovenia Experiences. If you are interested in finding out more, contact us; we would be more than happy to assist.
