5 Big European Adventures

Europe is full of unique adventures for thrill-seekers. Many believe it’s small, or they believe it to be an urban, historic paradise. But the truth is that Europe is around the same size as Canada, only more diverse. From volcanoes and glaciers in Iceland and midnight sun in Greenland to desert dunes in Spain, there are the right ingredients for an adventure.

Poles of Inconvenience

The Poles of Inconvenience is a quirky and fun challenge. Changing the term Points of Interest (POI) to Poles of Inconvenience, they are random poles placed in inconvenient locations, often blocking pathways or placed in odd spots in cities. These poles can be found in various locations across Europe and they’re placed there by the event organisers.

The idea is to navigate around them and snap a photo as proof. It’s a light-hearted way to explore, but there is a competitive element as you’ll be racing against many other teams.

The only real rules are that you must be in an old, cheap car to join in the spirit of things. And, at the end, there will be an event where all the teams can enjoy a drink together and share experiences.

Biking the Camino de Santiago The Camino de Santiago is a pilgrimage route in Spain. It’s perhaps the most well-known one, and while many walk it, biking the routes is a popular alternative.

There are a few different routes, and many stretch hundreds of kilometres. If you’re restricted by time but want to see as much as possible, darting about on a bike will be your best shot.

Along the way, expect to pass through amazing Spanish scenery and historic towns. The routes are well established, so it won’t be a lost and off-the-beaten-track adventure. Though, some routes are quite rural and less travelled, such as when heading off from Sarria, so choose according to your preferences!

Hiking the Laugavegur Trail, Iceland

The Laugavegur Trail in Iceland is a hiker’s dream destination. This is more than just getting some exercise in nature, this 55-kilometre trail takes you through hot springs, glaciers and volcanic deserts. It’s some of the world’s most unimaginable scenery, all in Europe’s backyard.

The best time to hike is from late June to early September when the trail is most accessible. Make sure to pack warm clothing and sturdy boots. The hike typically takes 4-5 days, with huts available for overnight stays. Remember, you may not see much darkness at night, so take an eye mask.

Hitchhiking the Via Baltica

The Via Baltica is a major route through the Baltic States, perfect for hitchhiking. Starting in Estonia and passing through Latvia and Lithuania, it offers a unique cultural experience. The Baltics are much more than ex-Soviet states, they have deep histories stretching back many centuries, meaning you’ll pass through plenty of medieval old towns.

Riga’s Art Nouveau district and Vilnius’ historic centre are of particular interest. Hitchhiking this route is generally safe, with the Baltics having a general atmosphere of up-and-coming positivity.

Exploring the Caves of Postojna, Slovenia

The Postojna Cave system in Slovenia is a geological wonder. These caves are over 24,000 metres long and feature stunning stalactites and stalagmites. Guided tours take you through the most impressive sections, including the famous Concert Hall and the Brilliant stalagmite.

The tour includes a ride on a unique cave railway and a walk through various chambers. Remember to wear warm clothing as the cave temperature is around 10°C year-round.

Conclusion

These five adventures offer a broad range of experiences, but there are still many untold adventures to explore. Searching for hikes through Europe’s best national parks is a always a good idea, and if you’re looking for wilderness, there can be wolves, bears and eagles dotted throughout.