Untravelled Paths

Thursday, January 8, 2026

Group Discounts: Big Adventures, Bigger Savings

Travelling together has never been more rewarding. Untravelled Paths’ Group Discounts offer substantial savings of 35% or more when a minimum group size is reached before the deal expires. Once the required numbers are met, the trip runs at the discounted price — simple, transparent and a genuine win-win. Travellers enjoy unbeatable value on expertly curated small-group adventures, while Untravelled Paths secures the numbers needed to operate responsibly. If you’re flexible on dates and open to travelling with like-minded people, these group travel deals are some of the best-value adventures available.

The Lapland Experience

The Lapland Experience is a short but unforgettable Arctic escape. Over three magical nights, guests dive straight into Finnish Lapland’s snowy wilderness with thrilling husky sledding, restorative sauna sessions followed by an ice plunge, and nights spent in atmospheric glass accommodation. A visit to Santa Claus Village adds a playful, seasonal highlight, while evenings are dedicated to watching the skies for the Northern Lights. With the group discount unlocked once eight people commit, this bucket-list winter adventure becomes surprisingly accessible — offering exceptional value for a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Trip Dates: Selected winter dates
Group Discount: 35% off
Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
Duration: 3 nights

The Western Cape Safari Experience

Blending culture, coastline and wildlife, the Western Cape Safari Experience delivers remarkable variety. This nine-night journey takes in the highlights of Cape Town, panoramic views from Table Mountain, tastings in the Winelands, and close-up encounters with penguins along the coast. The experience is elevated further with unforgettable safari moments, including elephant encounters. When the minimum group size is reached, travellers unlock a 35% saving, making this one of the most compelling small-group safari experiences in South Africa for value, comfort and diversity.

Trip Dates: Selected dates
Group Discount: 35% off
Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
Duration: 9 nights

The Adriatic & Beyond Experience

Designed for travellers who love depth and discovery, the Adriatic & Beyond Experience is a two-week journey through the heart of the Balkans. Highlights include the spectacular Koman Ferry, hiking in the Albanian Alps, and exploring Durmitor National Park. Cultural immersion continues in Sarajevo and Mostar before finishing beside the tranquil waters of Kotor Bay. Once eight travellers join, the 35% group discount transforms this expansive itinerary into outstanding value, rewarding early commitment with significant savings on a truly enriching European adventure.

Trip Dates: Selected dates
Group Discount: 35% off
Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
Duration: 14 nights

The Delta To Cape Experience

The Delta To Cape Experience combines some of southern Africa’s most iconic landscapes into one unforgettable journey. From a luxury mobile safari in the Okavango Delta to unique encounters with meerkats and exhilarating quad biking, the adventure is rich in once-in-a-lifetime moments. The trip continues through Cape Town, the Winelands, penguin-filled coastlines and ends in Hermanus. When the group discount is activated, this premium itinerary offers rare access to luxury safari and city experiences at a dramatically reduced price.

Trip Dates: Selected dates
Group Discount: 35% off
Minimum Capacity: 8 travellers
Duration: 14 nights

Why Group Discounts Work

Once the minimum capacity is reached, everyone benefits. Travellers enjoy exceptional savings on thoughtfully designed small-group adventures, while Untravelled Paths can confidently operate trips with the right numbers. It’s collaborative travel at its best – fair, transparent and rewarding.

Ready to Unlock 35% Off?

Group Discount places are limited and only confirmed once the minimum number of travellers is met. If one of these experiences has caught your eye, register your interest early, share the trip with friends, or join solo and connect with fellow travellers. Secure your place, help unlock the deal, and experience extraordinary journeys for less with Untravelled Paths.

Written by James Chisnall

The post Group Discounts: Big Adventures, Bigger Savings appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/group-discounts-big-adventures-bigger-savings/

Friday, January 2, 2026

New Year, New You: The Best Travel Experiences to Reset, Reconnect and Reignite Your Life

A New Year resolution doesn’t have to be about cutting carbs or joining a gym you’ll forget about by February. Sometimes, the most powerful changes happen when you step out of your routine and into the world. At Untravelled Paths, we believe travel should challenge you, teach you something new and give you the space to reconnect with yourself. Whether you want to push your limits, learn a new skill or simply switch off from the noise, these carefully curated experiences are the perfect way to start the year with purpose.

Below, we’ve grouped our best New Year resolution experiences by intention — so you can choose the journey that fits the change you want to make.

Challenge Yourself: Push Boundaries, Build Confidence

If your goal is to feel stronger, braver and more alive, these active adventures will test you physically and mentally — and reward you tenfold.

The Mini Albanian Alps Experience

Albania to Montenegro | 38km over 2 days

Hike through the dramatic Accursed Mountains, crossing from Albania into Montenegro on a challenging two-day trek covering 38km. This raw, untamed landscape demands effort — but the sense of achievement is immense. Add to that the spectacular Koman ferry journey, winding through fjord-like scenery, and you have an unforgettable start to the year.

Perfect for: Adventurers looking to prove to themselves what they’re capable of. Find our more…

The Toubkal Ascent Experience

Morocco | 4,167m summit

Awaken your senses in Morocco with a journey that combines the energy of Marrakesh with a demanding two-day ascent of Mount Toubkal, North Africa’s highest peak. Standing at 4,167 metres, this climb is as much a mental challenge as a physical one — and reaching the summit is a moment you’ll never forget.

Perfect for: Those craving a serious challenge and a powerful sense of accomplishment. Find our more…

The Mini Montenegro Experience

Raft from Bosnia & Herzegovina to Montenegro

Kick off spring by rafting the exhilarating Tara River rapids, crossing borders as you carve through Europe’s deepest canyon. Follow it up with hiking in Durmitor National Park, where alpine trails and dramatic peaks redefine what wild Europe looks like.

Perfect for: Thrill-seekers who want adventure with variety. Find our more…

Learn Something New: Travel That Feeds the Soul (and the Stomach)

Learning a new skill while travelling is one of the most rewarding ways to reset your mindset, especially when food and local culture are involved.

The Dolce Vita Puglia Experience

Italy | Pasta, passion and tradition

Slow down and embrace southern Italian life as you learn the art of handmade pasta with local pasta mamas. From kneading dough to cooking traditional recipes, this experience is about connection, simplicity and the joy of learning from those who know best.

Perfect for: Food lovers seeking a slower, more meaningful travel experience. Find our more…

The Bologna Experience

Italy | From farm to table

Dive into Italy’s culinary heartland as you discover how Parmesan, balsamic vinegar and Parma ham are made — before rolling up your sleeves at a homestead cooking lesson. You’ll finish with a deeper appreciation of food, tradition and the people behind it all.

Perfect for: Curious travellers who love understanding the story behind what’s on their plate. Find our more…

The Taste of Slovenia Experience

Slovenia | Beer, wine and truffles

Learn how to brew craft beer, make wine and hunt for truffles, then taste the fruits of your labour. This immersive experience blends hands-on learning with indulgence, all set against Slovenia’s stunning landscapes.

Perfect for: Those who want to learn something new while enjoying life’s finer flavours. Find our more…

Switch Off: Reconnect With Nature and Yourself

If your resolution is about balance, calm and mental clarity, these experiences are designed to help you truly unplug.

The Danube Delta Experience

Romania | Wild, remote and timeless

Accessible only by boat, the Danube Delta is one of Europe’s last true wildernesses. Surrounded by wildlife, waterways and authentic fishing villages, this is a place where time slows down and nature takes centre stage.

Perfect for: Anyone needing space, quiet and a proper digital detox. Find our more…

The Slovenia Nature & Spa Experience

Logar Valley | Nature meets wellbeing

Explore Slovenia’s lush national parks with snow-capped mountains as your backdrop, before unwinding in a beautiful spa hotel in the Logar Valley. It’s the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and restorative comfort.

Perfect for: Travellers seeking relaxation without switching off completely from exploration. Find our more…

One-in-a-Lifetime Experiences: Make This the Year You Say “Yes”

Some resolutions are about doing something extraordinary — the kind of trip that stays with you forever.

The Botswana Desert to Delta Experience

Okavango Delta | Luxury in the wild

Explore the depths of the Okavango Delta on a luxury mobile safari that immerses you in one of the world’s most iconic wildlife regions. Wake to the sounds of nature, track animals with expert guides and experience Africa in its rawest, most beautiful form.

Perfect for: Those ready to invest in a truly transformative travel experience. Find our more…

The Lapland Experience

Finland | Arctic magic

Combine the festive charm of Santa Claus’s village with husky sledding, traditional Finnish sauna rituals, ice plunging and nights in glass accommodation under the Arctic sky. With 2026 marking the final year of heightened Northern Lights activity, there’s no better time to go.

Perfect for: Dreamers, romantics and anyone chasing unforgettable moments. Find our more…

Make This the Year You Travel With Intention

A New Year resolution doesn’t need to be another promise you forget — it can be a journey that genuinely changes how you feel, think and live.

Whether you want to challenge yourself, learn something new, switch off, or tick off a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Untravelled Paths is here to help you start the year with intention.

✨ Because sometimes, the best version of you is found somewhere untravelled.

Written by James Chisnall

The post New Year, New You: The Best Travel Experiences to Reset, Reconnect and Reignite Your Life appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/new-year-new-you-the-best-travel-experiences/

The Best Untravelled Paths Experiences by Month in 2026

Planning your travels for 2026 and want experiences that feel genuinely special, immersive and a little off the beaten track? You’re in the right place. At Untravelled Paths, we design small-group journeys that combine wildlife, culture and spectacular landscapes – always at the best time of year to experience them.

To help you plan ahead, we’ve rounded up the best Untravelled Paths experiences by month in 2026, explaining exactly why each trip shines at that particular time. Whether you’re dreaming of tracking elusive wildlife, hiking dramatic mountain passes or soaking up festive magic, there’s something here for every curious traveller.

January – The Iberian Lynx Experience (Spain)

January is peak mating season for the Iberian lynx, making it one of the very best months to spot this rare and beautiful wild cat in Andalusia. With limited foliage, visibility is much better, and the cats are noticeably more active as they search for mates. Add to that fewer visitors across southern Spain, and you’ll enjoy a far more authentic local experience, from quieter landscapes to relaxed evenings in traditional villages. A perfect winter wildlife escape.

Why January is ideal:

Increased lynx activity during mating season
Less vegetation for easier sightings
Fewer crowds and a more local feel in Andalusia

February – The Mini Winter Slovenia Experience

February transforms Slovenia into a true winter fairytale. Lake Bled looks utterly magical dusted in snow, while the atmosphere is calm, crisp and serene. You’ll explore the extraordinary UNESCO-listed Škocjan Caves, enjoy a scenic train ride through Triglav National Park, and finish in style at a lovely spa hotel in the stunning Logar Valley – the perfect way to warm up after winter adventures.

Why February is ideal:

Snowy scenery at Lake Bled
Fewer visitors at key sights
Winter landscapes paired with spa relaxation

March – The Grey Wolf Experience (Romania)

Early March offers one of the best windows for tracking grey wolves. There’s often still snow on the ground, making it easier to spot tracks and signs of movement, while the weather is frequently clear and sunny. It’s a wonderful balance between winter and spring – dramatic landscapes, crisp mornings and excellent wildlife conditions without the deep cold.

Why March is ideal:

Snow cover helps with tracking wolves
Brighter, sunnier days than mid-winter
Quieter landscapes before spring tourism begins

April – The Sahara Desert Experience (Morocco)

April is widely considered one of the best months to visit Morocco, and nowhere does that show more clearly than in the Sahara Desert. Daytime temperatures are warm but comfortable, and nights are pleasantly cool. The Atlas Mountains often still hold traces of snow, creating a striking contrast with the golden dunes. Staying in a luxury desert camp, you’ll experience the Sahara at its most beautiful and comfortable.

Why April is ideal:

Temperate desert temperatures
Snow-capped Atlas Mountains as a backdrop
Perfect conditions for desert exploration

May – The Danube Delta Experience (Romania)

By May, spring has fully arrived in the Danube Delta, and bird migration is complete. The wetlands are alive with sound and movement, making this one of the best wildlife months of the year. From pelicans to herons and countless other species, the delta is teeming with life, all set against lush green channels and reed beds.

Why May is ideal:

Peak birdlife after migration
Mild temperatures and fresh spring scenery
Exceptional wildlife photography opportunities

June – The Mini Albanian Alps Experience

June is the sweet spot for hiking in the Albanian Alps. The mountains are in full bloom, the snow has melted on the famous Valbona to Theth pass, and temperatures are ideal for long days on the trail. You’ll also experience the Koman Ferry at its most breathtaking, with emerald waters and dramatic cliffs glowing in early summer light.

Why June is ideal:

Snow-free mountain passes
Wildflowers across the valleys
Comfortable hiking temperatures

July – The Slovenia Nature & Spa Experience

July is arguably the best time to visit Slovenia, when the country is at its greenest and most vibrant. Think alpine scenery set against bright blue skies and lush forests. You’ll hike the stunning Vintgar Gorge near Lake Bled, enjoy outdoor activities in the Soča Valley, explore the colourful coastal town of Piran, and unwind at a spa hotel in the beautiful Logar Valley.

Why July is ideal:

Peak summer landscapes
Excellent conditions for outdoor activities
A perfect blend of nature and relaxation

August – The Basking Shark Experience (Scotland)

August marks the peak of the basking shark migration, offering your best chance to encounter these gentle giants of the sea. With a strong likelihood of good weather, conditions are often ideal for boat excursions, making sightings more comfortable and enjoyable.

Why August is ideal:

Highest chance of basking shark sightings
Calmer seas and better weather
Longer daylight hours on the water

September – The Brown Bear Experience (Romania)

As summer heat fades, September brings cooler, more comfortable temperatures to Romania. The forests begin to hint at autumn, especially towards the end of the month, adding beautiful colour to the landscape. This combination of conditions makes September one of the best months to see brown bears, as they forage actively ahead of winter.

Why September is ideal:

Cooler temperatures than peak summer
Increased bear activity
Early autumn colours in the forests

October – The Halloween Dracula Experience (Romania)

With Halloween at the end of the month, could there be a more fitting time to visit Transylvania? October sets the scene perfectly – misty mornings, golden forests and gothic architecture. You’ll dive into the legend of Dracula and celebrate Halloween with a party in none other than Dracula’s Castle itself. A truly unforgettable experience.

Why October is ideal:

Halloween atmosphere at its peak
Autumn colours across Transylvania
A once-in-a-lifetime themed experience

November – The Lapland Experience (Finland)

Travel at the end of November to enjoy Lapland’s magic before peak December prices arrive. You’ll still experience the festive spirit, from Santa Claus to huskies, Finnish saunas, ice plunges and cosy glass accommodation. And if luck is on your side, this is also a great time to spot the Northern Lights dancing across the sky.

Why November is ideal:

Festive experiences without peak-season crowds
Excellent Northern Lights potential
Great value compared to December

December – Transylvania Christmas Markets (Romania)

You’ll also visit Dracula’s Castle, adding a uniquely Transylvanian twist to your Christmas market adventure. December in Transylvania is pure festive charm. This experience takes you to three Christmas markets, the first in Bucharest, as well as the in the medieval old towns of Brașov and Sibiu, all over three magical nights.

Why December is ideal:

Traditional Christmas markets at their best
Festive medieval towns
A perfect winter city break with a twist

Plan Your 2026 Adventure with Untravelled Paths

Travelling at the right time makes all the difference – and every Untravelled Paths experience is carefully timed to offer the best possible conditions. If you’re planning your travels for 2026 and want something truly memorable, explore our full range of small-group adventures and let us take you somewhere extraordinary. Untravelled Paths – travel deeper, travel better.

Written by James Chisnall

The post The Best Untravelled Paths Experiences by Month in 2026 appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/the-best-untravelled-paths-experiences-by-month-in-2026/

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

My Favourite Cities to Visit on Untravelled Paths Experiences

As the founder of Untravelled Paths, travel isn’t just my job—it’s my way of life. I’m a full-time traveller and have been lucky enough to live all over the globe, across six of the seven continents. I’ve spent extended time in many of the cities we feature, and I’ve even called places like Sarajevo, Kotor and Cape Town home, to name a few! While I absolutely appreciate the pull of the world’s most famous cities, my curiosity has always drawn me towards destinations that feel a little less obvious—places with layers of history, strong local identity and a real sense of soul. These are my favourite cities you can visit on Untravelled Paths experiences, and every one of them has left a lasting mark on me.

Sarajevo, Bosnia & Herzegovina

Sarajevo will always feel like home to me. Few cities in Europe carry such a powerful sense of history and resilience. Here, East meets West in the most tangible way, Ottoman bazaars sit beside Austro-Hungarian architecture, and church bells, synagogue chants and the call to prayer all echo through the same streets. What makes Sarajevo special is its warmth. The people, the coffee culture and the stories shared over a plate of ćevapi give the city a depth that’s hard to describe. Add in its stunning mountain backdrop and poignant historical sites, and it becomes one of Europe’s most compelling capitals.

Sibiu, Romania

Sibiu is one of those cities that quietly wins you over. Located in the heart of Transylvania, it’s beautifully preserved, with pastel-coloured buildings, charming squares and its famous ‘watchful eyes’ peering down from the rooftops. It’s a city that feels lived-in rather than staged, and that’s exactly why I love it. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, Sibiu is a perfect base for exploring rural Romania while offering fantastic food, culture and one of the best Christmas markets in Eastern Europe.

Ljubljana, Slovenia

Ljubljana proves that capital cities don’t have to feel overwhelming. Compact, green and effortlessly stylish, it’s one of Europe’s most liveable cities. I love wandering along the riverbanks, climbing up to the castle for views across the rooftops, and soaking up the café culture that spills out onto the streets. With its focus on sustainability, local food and outdoor living, Ljubljana feels refreshingly forward-thinking while still deeply rooted in history.

Kotor, Montenegro

I’ve spent a lot of time in Kotor, and it’s a city that never loses its magic. Tucked deep inside a dramatic bay, its medieval old town is a maze of stone alleyways, hidden squares and ancient churches. Climbing the fortress walls above the city is a must, the views across Kotor Bay are some of the most spectacular in Europe. Despite its growing popularity, Kotor still has a strong local feel, especially in the evenings once the day-trippers have left.

Marrakesh, Morocco

Marrakesh is a city that awakens every sense. From the moment you enter the medina, you’re immersed in colour, sound and movement. What keeps drawing me back is the contrast: the intensity of Jemaa el-Fnaa balanced by the calm of riads and hidden gardens. The craftsmanship, food and deep-rooted traditions make Marrakesh endlessly fascinating and a perfect introduction to Morocco’s rich culture.

Seville, Spain

Seville has a rhythm all of its own. It’s a city built on passion – seen in its flamenco, its architecture and its love of life. From the grandeur of the Alcázar to the narrow lanes of Santa Cruz, Seville rewards slow exploration. Add tapas bars, orange-scented streets and warm evenings spent outdoors, and it’s easy to see why this Andalusian city captures so many hearts.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is truly one of the world’s great cities. Straddling two continents, it feels like several cities rolled into one. The scale of its history is breathtaking, from the Hagia Sophia to the Grand Bazaar, yet daily life unfolds in wonderfully ordinary ways along the Bosphorus. Istanbul’s energy, food scene and cultural depth make it endlessly rewarding to explore.

Cape Town, South Africa

Having lived in Cape Town, I can confidently say it’s one of the most visually striking cities on the planet. Where else can you go from mountain trails to beaches and vineyards all in the same day? Table Mountain dominates the skyline, while neighbourhoods like Bo-Kaap and Kalk Bay add colour and character. Cape Town’s creative energy, natural beauty and cultural diversity make it unforgettable.

Tbilisi, Georgia

Tbilisi feels wonderfully undiscovered. Its eclectic architecture—wooden balconies, Soviet relics and modern design, reflects the city’s complex past. The sulphur baths, lively wine bars and dramatic hillside setting give Tbilisi a raw, authentic charm. It’s a city that invites curiosity and rewards those willing to explore beyond the obvious.

Cartagena, Colombia

Cartagena is all about atmosphere. Its walled old town is a vibrant mix of colonial architecture, music-filled streets and Caribbean colour. I love the way history and modern life blend here, horse-drawn carriages share the streets with street food vendors and contemporary art spaces. With its coastal setting and infectious energy, Cartagena is impossible not to fall for.

Matera, Italy

Matera is unlike anywhere else in Italy. Famous for its ancient cave dwellings, or Sassi, it feels as though you’re walking through history itself. At sunrise and sunset, the city glows in soft stone hues, and wandering its narrow pathways is a deeply atmospheric experience. Matera’s story of regeneration makes it one of Europe’s most inspiring destinations.

Why These Cities?

Each of these cities offers something distinctive – whether it’s history, culture, setting or spirit. They’re places I return to time and again, not just because they’re beautiful, but because they feel real.

If you’re curious about cities that go beyond the obvious and want to experience destinations with depth and character, I’d love for you to explore these incredible places with Untravelled Paths. They’re truly some of the world’s most unique cities and they deserve to be experienced properly.

Written by James Chisnall

The post My Favourite Cities to Visit on Untravelled Paths Experiences appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/my-favourite-cities-to-visit-on-untravelled-paths-experiences/

The Best Untravelled Paths Destinations by Month for 2026

If you can travel outside the usual school-holiday rush, you’ll be rewarded with quieter landscapes, better value and a more authentic connection with the places you visit. Travelling seasonally allows destinations to shine at their very best—and often offers a welcome escape from the UK’s greyer, colder or busier months. Here are our favourite destinations in and around Europe for each month of 2026, along with the festivals, events and experiences that make them especially appealing.

January – Spain

January is a wonderful time to head to Spain, particularly inland regions such as Andalusia. While the UK is deep in winter, southern Spain enjoys mild, sunny days ideal for walking, wildlife spotting and cultural exploration. This is one of the best times to search for the elusive Iberian lynx, with cooler temperatures making wildlife activity more visible. With far fewer visitors than the summer months, you’ll enjoy quieter historic cities, better value accommodation and a warmer welcome from locals—many of whom feel the strain of mass tourism during peak season. Events such as Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes) in early January bring colourful parades and a festive atmosphere across the country.

February – South Africa

February may be cold and damp in the UK, but it’s summer in South Africa. This is a fantastic time for wildlife, wine and coastlines, with lush landscapes following the rainy season. The Cape Winelands are in harvest mode, and the beaches around Cape Town are at their best. Key events include the Cape Town Minstrel Carnival and lively cultural celebrations across the country. Compared to the UK, the long, warm days and outdoor lifestyle make February an easy choice for a winter escape.

March – Italy

March is one of Italy’s most underrated months. Spring is beginning to arrive, temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds haven’t yet followed. Cities like Rome, Florence and Venice feel far more relaxed, and countryside regions are starting to bloom. Events such as Carnevale (which sometimes spills into early March) and local food festivals bring colour without the chaos. Compared to the UK’s lingering winter chill, Italy offers sunshine, outdoor dining and excellent value.

April – Morocco

April is one of the very best months to visit Morocco. The weather is warm but not overwhelming, and the Atlas Mountains still hold snow on their peaks, creating stunning contrasts with green valleys below. Ramadan often falls around this period (dates vary), offering a unique cultural experience, while Easter crowds remain minimal outside Marrakech. Compared to the UK, Morocco delivers reliable sunshine, vibrant markets and a real sense of seasonal transition.

May – Bosnia & Herzegovina

Spring in Bosnia & Herzegovina is vibrant and uplifting. Rivers are full, wildflowers are blooming, and cities like Sarajevo and Mostar feel alive without being overcrowded. Festivals such as the Sarajevo International Book Fair and local cultural events bring energy to the streets. While the UK can still feel unsettled in May, Bosnia offers warmth, colour and a wonderful balance between activity and calm.

June – Albania

June is an ideal time to explore Albania. The mountains are in full blossom, hiking conditions are excellent, and the beaches are beautifully warm without the peak-summer crowds. Cultural festivals and open-air events begin across the country, and prices remain excellent compared to much of Europe. It’s a far sunnier and more adventurous alternative to the UK’s unpredictable early summer.

July – Slovenia

Many consider July the best month to visit Slovenia—and we’re inclined to agree. The weather is perfect for lakes, mountains and outdoor adventures, yet the country never feels overwhelmed thanks to its limited capacity for mass tourism. Events like the Ljubljana Festival fill the capital with music and culture. While the UK can feel busy and crowded during summer holidays, Slovenia remains calm, green and refreshingly manageable.

August – Montenegro

Despite its growing popularity, Montenegro still offers space and serenity—especially in the mountains. While coastal towns and Kotor Bay are busier, they’re far less crowded than neighbouring Croatia. August brings lively local festivals and warm Adriatic evenings. Flights are more expensive this month, but once you arrive, Montenegro remains excellent value and far more relaxed than many UK holiday hotspots.

September – Georgia

September is peak season in Georgia, and for good reason. The weather is ideal, the vineyards are alive with harvest activity, and the mountains glow with early autumn colours. Events such as Rtveli, the traditional wine harvest festival, make this a particularly special time to visit. Compared to the UK’s return to routine and cooler days, Georgia offers warmth, celebration and stunning scenery.

October – Romania

Autumn transforms Romania, particularly the Carpathian Mountains, into a tapestry of golds and reds. Rolling hills, quiet villages and crisp air make October perfect for slow exploration. Halloween adds an extra layer of intrigue, especially around Bran Castle—often linked to the Dracula legend. While the UK settles into darker evenings, Romania delivers colour, folklore and dramatic landscapes.

November – Turkey

November is an excellent time to visit Turkey. The climate is mild, crowds are thinner, and prices are noticeably lower than in summer. Cities like Istanbul feel more local again, with cultural events and exhibitions continuing year-round. Compared to the UK’s colder, shorter days, Turkey offers warmth, history and great value.

December – Finland

December in Finnish Lapland is pure winter magic. Snow-covered forests, northern lights, husky sledding, saunas, hot tubs and unique glass-roofed accommodation make it an unforgettable festive escape. Ice hotels and restaurants open for the season, and for families, meeting Father Christmas adds an extra layer of wonder. While the UK is often damp and grey, Lapland delivers a true winter experience.

Ready to Travel Smarter in 2026?

Travelling at the right time can transform a good trip into an unforgettable one. If any of these destinations have caught your eye, we’d love to help you plan a journey that makes the most of the season. Get in touch with the Untravelled Paths team and let’s start shaping your 2026 adventures.

Written by James Chisnall

The post The Best Untravelled Paths Destinations by Month for 2026 appeared first on Untravelled Paths.

from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/the-best-untravelled-paths-destinations-by-month-for-2026/

Thursday, December 11, 2025

James’s Favourite Hotels from Untravelled Paths Experiences

A personal collection of the places that have left the biggest impression on me

As the founder of Untravelled Paths, I’ve spent much of my life on the move. Travelling is part of who I am, and I’ve been incredibly fortunate to explore some amazing places and stay in some truly remarkable hotels around the world. Along the way, a handful of them have stood out not just for their comfort or design, but for the feeling they gave me—the sense of magic that lingers long after you’ve checked out.

These are my four favourite hotels from across our experiences. Each is special in its own way and captures the spirit of adventure that inspires everything we do at Untravelled Paths.

1. Northern Lights Ranch – Lapland

There’s something extraordinary about lying in bed and watching the northern lights through a glass roof, and that’s exactly what makes the Northern Lights Ranch unforgettable for me. Tucked away in the quiet forests of Finnish Lapland, the Ranch is designed to give you the very best chance of witnessing the Aurora Borealis.

The Sky View Cabins are genuinely magical—cosy, warm and perfectly positioned for stargazing. I’ve always loved the peacefulness here: the stillness of the snow, the crunch of footsteps in the forest, and the feeling that you’re far away from everything except nature. Add in the huskies, reindeer, and fireside meals, and it becomes one of my favourite winter escapes.
Why it’s special:

Glass-roofed cabins with incredible aurora views
A remote, tranquil forest setting
Amazing Arctic activities on your doorstep

2. Kasbah Bab Ourika – Morocco

Perched above the Ourika Valley in the Atlas Mountains, Kasbah Bab Ourika is one of those places that instantly slows your heartbeat. Built using traditional Berber techniques, the kasbah blends beautifully with its surroundings—and for me, it’s all about the views and the atmosphere.

I’ve spent countless moments here just staring across the terraces and mountains, watching the light change throughout the day. The design is simple yet warm, the staff genuinely kind, and the infinity pool is a dream after exploring the rugged landscapes around. It’s a peaceful world away from the energy of Marrakech, and that contrast is part of why I love it.
Why it’s special:

Sweeping panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains
Authentic, sustainable Berber-inspired design
A calm, restorative retreat away from the city

3. Hotel Plesnik – Slovenia

Tucked inside the picture-perfect Logar Valley, Hotel Plesnik is a place that always fills me with a sense of calm. The setting alone is enough to make it memorable: towering alpine peaks, emerald meadows and one of Europe’s most beautiful glacial valleys.

What I love most is how connected the hotel feels to the landscape. The natural outdoor pool is a standout—swimming with mountain views all around is incredibly refreshing. And after a day hiking or exploring the valley, there’s nothing better than unwinding in the wellness centre and simply taking in the silence.
Why it’s special:

One of the best locations in Slovenia’s alpine region
A gorgeous natural outdoor pool
A peaceful wellness centre with panoramic views

4. Golden Africa’s Luxury Mobile Safari – Okavango Delta

There’s nothing quite like a mobile safari, and Golden Africa’s Luxury Mobile Safari in Botswana’s Okavango Delta is one of my most cherished travel experiences. Instead of staying in a lodge, you move with the wildlife, sleeping in luxury tents set in some of the most remote and pristine areas of the Delta.

For me, the magic comes from the intimacy of it all: evenings around the campfire, incredible guiding, and waking up to the sounds of the bush coming alive. It’s raw, immersive and completely unforgettable—exactly the kind of experience I think travel should be.
Why it’s special:

A deep, authentic safari experience far from the crowds
Exceptional guiding and personalised service
Luxurious mobile tents in the heart of the Delta

Where Will Your Journey Take You?

These hotels aren’t just places to stay—they’re experiences that have stayed with me. Each one captures something unique, from Arctic skies to desert solitude, alpine serenity to African wilderness.

If you’re dreaming of your next adventure and want help planning something truly memorable, the team and I would love to help bring it to life.

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from Untravelled Paths https://blog.untravelledpaths.com/blog/jamess-favourite-hotels-from-untravelled-paths-experiences/