TRENDING EXPERIENCES
02.
From left: Dramatic cliffs, hidden coves and golden beaches line the Fishermen’s Trail in Portugal; the Soča River, with its turquoise waters and rugged alpine backdrop, is one of western Europe’s most scenic and exciting rafting destinations
TAKE A MODERN- DAY PILGRIMAGE IN PORTUGAL
For centuries, long-distance walking trails through Europe would be tackled as ostentatious displays of religious devotion. Today, pilgrims more commonly carry trekking poles, wear GPS watches and are in search of a more secular form of salvation: peace, both external and within. Portugal’s Rota Vicentina is a great place to find both. This network of linear and circular trails showcases the wild, deserted beaches, honey-hued cliffs and sleepy coastal towns of southwest Portugal. Perhaps the most emblematic stretch is the 143-mile Fishermen’s Trail, which starts near Porto Covo in Alentejo and extends all the way to Lagos in the Algarve, taking in some of Europe’s best-preserved coastal ecosystems en route.
HOW TO DO IT: Tackle the route with specialist tour operator Macs Adventure. Its six-night trip along the Fishermen’s Trail starts from £599 per person, including accommodation at traditional guesthouses, daily bag transfers and app-based navigation.
macsadventure.com
03.
CONQUER SLOVENIA IN SIX DAYS
Slovenia is fast emerging as one of Europe’s top adventure destinations. The country’s diminutive scale means it’s easy to get around and nip between its picturesque lakes, mountains and walking trails, while numerous operators are emerging, offering ever-more exhilarating experiences. Outventure-X ranks among the best, with its Slovenia Outdoor Week designed for ‘outdoor rebels’. The six-day itinerary packs in a new adventure every day, including biking, climbing, rafting, via ferrata, hiking and paragliding. Arenas include the Vipava Valley, known for its wine- producing slopes; the Soča River, one of the most picturesque rafting destinations in western Europe; and the Julian Alps. It’s here where the grand finale plays out: climbing to the summit of 9,395ft Triglav, Slovenia’s highest mountain.
HOW TO DO IT: Slovenia Outdoor Week starts from €995 (£876) per person, including accommodation, expert guides and most activities.
outventure-x.com
NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC TRAVELLER – EXPERIENCES COLLECTION 11
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