Leg Three
Svalbard to Georgia
Below you’ll find ways to see the world from a new perspective, from different angles, constituent parts of wider trips. Some historical, some cultural, some in the presence of wildlife, some in the absence of almost everything; some serious and some, purely, for the sake of fun. A list to make you think, to ponder and to dream, where suggestion is merely a starting point and where cognition, conversation and consideration will, no doubt, take you somewhere different; a place where one can feel and feel alive.
Pure driven snow
Svalbard
Stay at Nordenskiold Lodge, the world’s northernmost expedition lodge. Accessible only by sled or snowmobile during the winter, it’s a remarkable place to experience true wilderness. Departing from Longyearbyen, traverse pristine glacial valleys and frozen fjords, keeping watch for polar bears and other elusive wildlife in its natural habitat. This Arctic expedition is open to both adults and teens aged 16 and over, making it a perfect expedition for families seeking that memory of a lifetime.
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Puffin paradise
Iceland
Off Iceland’s south coast lies the Westman Islands, known for their volcanic landscapes, vast lava fields and the world’s largest puffin colony. The islands are also one of Iceland’s key fishing hubs, with many artisan food producers. Make the journey onboard an electric ferry, for a tranquil, engine-free crossing, keeping watch for whales and seals as you go.
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A stroll in the midnight sun
Norway
From late May to mid-July, the sun never dips below the horizon in Lofoten, creating endless daylight. Midnight sun hikes offer an unmatched experience. The Offersoykammen hike is short and accessible, yet rewards you with panoramic views of the archipelago. Elk, fox and stoat often make an appearance on mountain walks, with seals and otters adorning the coast. Look skyward for soaring white-tailed eagles.
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"Heija!"
Sweden
Mush a team of Alaskan or Siberian huskies through Swedish Lapland, with ideal snow conditions from December to March. Beyond dog sledding, try snowmobiling, ice sculpting, snow biking, ice fishing, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing and sledging. Move through moose, reindeer, Arctic hare and wolf habitats, with a good chance of witnessing the northern lights during your adventure.
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Surfeit in San Sebastian
Spain
San Sebastian’s food scene is internationally renowned, showcasing Basque cuisine at its finest. The city boasts four restaurants with three Michelin stars and a vibrant pintxos culture – small, flavourful bites that are quintessentially local. Local products, from Cantabrian seafood to Gernika peppers shine across seasonal menus.
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Ride the wave
Portugal
Watch professional surfers ride colossal waves in Nazare, where Sebastian Steudtner surfed an 86-foot wave in October 2020. The big wave season runs from October to March. Sagres at Portugal’s southern tip offers calmer waves, especially in the summer, making it ideal for beginners, allowing families to find their zen.
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Sip and savour
Georgia
Georgia, one of the world’s oldest winemaking homelands, is recognised by UNESCO for its traditional methods. Explore Kakheti, Georgia’s famed wine region, dotted with vineyards and historic churches. Visit Khareba Winery’s unique tunnel cellar and meet the monks of Alaverdi Monastery to sample their ‘qvevri wines’ and learn their ‘wine prayers’. Travel in October to join the harvest, experiencing Georgia’s renowned hospitality and winemaking traditions.
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Coaster in the clouds
Italy
Alpine Bob Merano 2000 is Italy’s longest alpine coaster, set in the year-round resort of Merano 2000. The 1.1 kilometre track winds through alpine forests at 1,900 metres above sea level, reaching speeds of up to 24 mph. This is a thrilling activity for families, with children over 10 riding solo. Enjoy stunning views of Ortler Mountain, the highest point in South Tyrol’s Southern Limestone Alps, from the top of the track.
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Springtime twitching
Romania
Explore the Danube Delta’s rich landscapes of marshlands, lakes and woodlands at sunrise, led by birding experts. Spring is best as migratory birds return to mate when the water levels are high. Spot pelicans gathering to feed, along with pygmy cormorants, spoonbills and glossy ibises. This haven for migratory and breeding birds offers a full day of quiet discovery amidst the diverse birdlife.
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Between two rivers
Eastern Turkey
A place steeped in history, Eastern Turkey is brimming with cultural wonders waiting to be discovered. Explore Gobekli Tepe, a site famous for the world’s oldest known temples dating back to before 9,000 BC, rewriting our understanding of early human history. In Diyarbakir, walk along ancient Roman city walls built from huge black basalt blocks, second only to the Great Wall of China. Journey south from Van along a branch of the Silk Road to Hosap Castle, once a toll point for travellers.
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On the truffle trail
Croatia
The Istria region is famed for its worldclass truffles, first discovered 80 years ago in the Motovun Forest, and now the heart of the ‘hunt’. Join a local hunter and their trained dogs to uncover truffles, learning its art, origins and culinary uses. Hunt for white truffles in the winter and black in the summer, then visit a ‘konoba’ to sample these delicacies.
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Keep on track
Greece
Pedal a railbike along the historic railway of Megara, which once connected Athens to the Peloponnese. Enjoy spectacular views of the Saronic Gulf and visit a 400 BC archaeological site, accessible only by railbike, to learn about Kar, the mythical king of Megara.
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