Seen the sights, been on the beaches? Yep, those tried-and-tested holidays are perfect when you’re after some relaxing me-time, but if it’s nature and adventure that calls your name, you’ve found the right place. Here’s just a snapshot of some of the thrilling things you should add to your bucket list right now…
A sunrise hike to Mount Etna
Big into hiking and new adventures? Sicily’s got just the thing. Combining walking with some of the most spectacular scenery in southern Europe, a sunrise hike to Mount Etna is an experience every thrill-seeker should add to their bucket list. Cooler evening temperatures make the climb more manageable, plus there are different trails to suit every level. If you don’t fancy waking up early, sunset hikes are just as common and promise scenic panoramas up top too.
Zip lining in Madeira
Experiencing Madeira’s lush terrain from another angle? Yes, please! Just outside Porto Moniz, you can give the island’s longest zipline a whizz at Adrenaline Adventures. Fly high above the forested terrain, with the endless ocean horizon by your side, reaching up to 110km/h speed. If you’re after something less extreme, there’s a slower line – same gorgeous views, less adrenaline. You’ll also find a giant swing sitting 250m above the ocean there – if ziplining isn’t your thing, this might be the ideal choice for you.
Ski touring in the Alps
If you’ve got more than a few ski trips under your belt and feel confident on the slopes, why not try ski touring in the panoramic Alps? Much more about the ascent than racking up the kilometres, this activity swaps lift queues and crowded pistes for peaceful mountain trails and fresh powder. Using skins attached to your skis, you gradually hike uphill before the well-earned reward of skiing down through fresh powder and wide-open terrain. It’s popular across French, Swiss and Austrian Alps, each offering a range of trails for different levels – how’s that for a winter challenge?
Glacier hiking in Iceland
Take hiking to a whole new level with a glacier tour on your Iceland itinerary. Despite the dramatic sound of the experience, the tours are open for everyone and range from a couple-hour guided walk to a full-day experience, exploring ice ridges and crevasses of the glaciers. The best part? You can see these unreal-looking landscapes all year round – even in summer. In fact, the ‘warm’ season is the most popular time to explore Iceland’s natural wonders, thanks to mild temperatures and more gentle winds.
Climbing in Kalymnos
Consider yourself a decent climber? Take it outdoors in Kalymnos – one of the most popular climbing destinations in Europe! Beginners, you’re not forgotten about either – with over four thousand routes on the comparably dinky island, there’s something for every level here. Massouri and Myrties are the top spots, featuring the most iconic cliffs climbers flock here to tackle. And with gorgeous Mediterranean views accompanying your days on the limestone rocks, it’s easy to see why many add climbing in Kalymnos to their bucket lists…
Wild swimming in South of France
Do South of France differently with a trip to the stunning Verdon Gorge. Nestled about a two-hour drive away from Nice, this spectacular gorge is known for its towering limestone cliffs, unbelievably blue water and an abundance of activities on offer. So, as far as wild swimming goes, it doesn’t get much more scenic than this spot near the French Riviera – although you’ll need to research the spots where this is allowed. The rugged mountains that make the gorge are engraved with a maze of hiking trails, while the calm parts of the river are popular for kayaking and canoeing.
Kayaking in Croatia
From national parks to exploring cities from the water, kayaking in Croatia is unlike anywhere else. On the Istrian Coast in the north, hop on a kayak to explore the shores of Cape Kamenjak – you’ll spot dramatic cliffs, remote beaches and more! Further down south near Split, get to know the island of Hvar or paddle your way through Mljet National Park – both equally stunning Croatian destinations. But the most epic experience of all has to be kayaking around Dubrovnik – seeing Lovrjenac Fortress and the city walls from the sea is truly a bucket-list moment!
White water rafting in Italy
Swap hiking for white water rafting for a day when you’re in the Dolomites. Promising an adrenaline-filled day in the Italian mountains, Noce River is one of the best rafting destinations in Europe. Exciting rapids paired with incredible mountain scenery creates the perfect balance of thrill and adventure, plus guided routes cater to different levels of experience, so beginners can still enjoy the rush without feeling out of their depth. Expect plenty of splashes, fast-moving sections and dramatic alpine views along the way.
Stargazing in the Canary Islands
Thanks to the small amount of light pollution and constant trade winds that keep big cloud formations at bay, the skies above the Canary Islands are known as some of the clearest and calmest in the whole of Europe – ideal for stargazing! La Palma, the smallest and quaintest of the five on our map, is often referred to as the stargazing capital of Europe, so you bet there are some showstopping viewing spots. But Gran Can, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and Tenerife also have a viewpoint or few to shout about!
Posted: 12th May 2026.