There is something appealing about setting off to unique destinations for a thrilling outdoor escape. Embarking on adventures like exploring remote continents, trekking with gorillas, or indulging in the luxury of sleeping in a tent surrounded by breathtaking landscapes has the power to enhance your mental, emotional, and overall physical state.
Below, check out some of the most unusual destinations perfect for outdoor escapes.
Antarctica
Do you dream of exploring the remotest place on Earth to marvel at incredible snowy landscapes and discover fascinating wildlife, such as whales, penguins, and seals? You should book a trip to Antarctica for your next outdoor escape. Exploring the White Continent is an incredible experience you will remember for the rest of your life.
Your adventure can include discovering extraordinary landscapes, such as the snowy peaks of Mount Parry on Anvers Island. At over 8,000 feet tall, it looks like a spectacular pyramid of snow and ice rising magnificently from the icy water.
Another highlight of your outdoor escape to Antarctica is the wildlife. You can witness thousands of quirky penguins up-close or whales playing in the water. You can also enjoy incredible sightings of magnificent birds, such as the albatross. Some of these giant birds have a wingspan of up to 11 feet, and witnessing them fly over you is incredibly mesmerising.
So, if you want to visit somewhere unique on your next vacation, head to Antarctica. Considered the driest, coldest, and iciest place on Earth, it’s a destination that lures intrepid travellers looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure.
France
France has an incredible diversity of terrain that offers the perfect setting for enjoying your favourite outdoor activities. From climbing the Pyrenees to cycling around the picturesque South of France region, France will have something to offer every adventurer. Feel free to bring your friends or family on your outdoor escape to France since there are some incredible group accommodation options, ideal for those seeking an outdoor getaway in the country.
As the world’s most iconic destination for winter sports, the best time to visit France for outdoor adventures is in the winter. Boasting incredible mountain ranges, such as the Alps and the Pyrenees, you are guaranteed an epic adventure on your winter holiday to France. Aside from skiing, you can try snowboarding, snowshoeing, heli-skiing, and more! The best destinations for winter sports in France include the Chamonix Valley, Val-d’Isere, and Tignes.
Summer in France is just as exciting as it is in winter. You can climb epic mountains in the French Alps, raft along the scenic rivers of Verdon Gorge, or enjoy incredible water sports along the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean Coast.
Rwanda
Offering some of the world’s most epic outdoor adventures, such as gorilla trekking, Rwanda is a fascinating destination, luring wildlife and nature lovers. Dubbed the country of a thousand hills, it offers countless natural gems guaranteed to take your breath away!
Gorilla trekking is the main reason people come to Rwanda, where you hike through dense forests in search of gorilla families and witness them in their natural habitat. When you book a gorilla trekking adventure, you are helping to contribute to their preservation since a portion of the money you pay will go towards these conservation projects. And while gorilla trekking is Rwanda’s biggest draw, it’s not the only outdoor activity in this Central African country.
While in Rwanda, consider a safari adventure in Akagera National Park. Established in 1934, it lies at Rwanda’s border with Tanzania and is home to hundreds of bird species and incredible wildlife, including the Big 5. You can also spot zebras, giraffes, hippos, and many other species.
For avid hikers, Rwanda offers multiple options for an exciting hiking adventure. You can conquer mountains like Mt. Muhabura and Mt. Bisoke for day treks and marvel at their lush greenery while coming across rare wildlife.
North Carolina
Home to lush forests, pristine beaches, and rugged mountain peaks, North Carolina offers plenty of opportunities to get active and explore the great outdoors. Take advantage of the diverse terrain by trying out thrilling adventures, from chasing waterfalls at Gorges State Park to camping by the coast. And if you prefer a more glamorous way to sleep outdoors, you will find some amazing glamping rentals in North Carolina, a perfect option for a luxury outdoor escape.
Your outdoor adventures in North Carolina will be about exploring nature parks, such as the beautiful Gorges State Park in Sapphire. Famous for its majestic waterfalls spread throughout the park, it has numerous hiking trails to take you to these waterfalls. Some trails are short, while others are long, covering a whopping 56 miles, not to mention over 17 miles of mountain biking trails.
Avid hikers looking for a challenge should take the trail to Bearwallow Falls. Despite being only four miles, you can expect strenuous hiking. But it will be worth it once you see the spectacular views from the observation deck at Bearwallow Falls, looking out into the incredible cascade of waters.
Those who wish to spend the night at Gorges State Park can try camping. However, it will be pretty basic, where you camp deep in the woods with only basic amenities. If you prefer to sleep somewhere more luxurious, you can try glamping in other places in North Carolina.
England
England offers opportunities for extraordinary outdoor escapes, from coasteering to cave diving and rock climbing. It boasts a remarkably diverse landscape, summoning adventurers to connect with nature and take on fun adventures.
Those keen on climbing should visit the Lake District, renowned for having some of the best rock climbing in England. Boasting craggy landscapes, it offers plenty of rock-climbing opportunities suitable for all levels, from beginners to experts.
If you prefer to explore in the water, head to the Peak District and try a thrilling white-water rafting adventure. Located in Central England, the Peak District National Park has beautiful rivers, such as the river Derwent, which offers the perfect setting for whitewater rafting.