Off the beaten track

Sian Pages – Travel Planner

The world is a magnificent place and sometimes we forget that hidden gems are plenty. If you’re looking to embark on a journey of a lifetime and head off the beaten track, then I’ve rounded up some of the best places to do just that.

Take the trail less travelled and head out on an adventure where you leave your real world behind.

The Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are a continuous sequence of mountain ranges that runs all the way from Alaska to the very tip of South America. They’re a vast land – filled with inspiring scenery, wildlife, recreational activities and a host of secret gems that only the locals know about.

Take your pick, and ski, white water raft, rock climb or rail journey your way across them and witness this breath-taking part of the world.

Bhutan

This is no ordinary place. It’s the last great Himalayan kingdom, boasting mystery and magic and philosophy of Gross National Happiness. Beauty and wisdom are explored at each dzong and most incredibly, in the eyes of every smiling Buddhist monk you meet.

A trip here will unravel a purity of experiences, traditions and kindness.

Galapagos Islands

Charles Darwin’s earth-shattering theory of evolution began in the Galapagos’ incredible natural diversity. It truly is a place like no other, you’ll find species here that you will not find anywhere else in the world.

Trips here allow you to get up close to the action- which there is a lot of – and fully experience this incredible archipelago. The Galapagos may just inspire you to think differently about the world.

Jordan

From spectacular desert landscapes dotted with splendid desert castles to the verdant Jordan Valley; ancient archaeological wonders to bustling souks and cities; busy beaches to the restful waters of the Red Sea, this is a land of extraordinary contrasts.

A trip here is perfect for those with a fascination with the past. UNESCO-listed ancient sites tell the stories of ancient cities, it proudly represents the impression of the quintessential Middle East.

Peru

A venture to the land of the sun and you’ll be richly rewarded with world-class trekking, mysterious ruins, majestic rainforest and mind-boggling ancient ruins. The mist-cloaked Andes mountains beckon to explorers, providing a paradise for the active traveller. The Moonstone Trek allows you to cover most of this incredible journey without bumping into any other tourists by following an isolated route with unexplored ruins.

Lake Como

Located at the foot of the Alps, Lake Como provides one of the most picturesque sceneries in the world. The perimeter is studded with charming villages and towns enabling you to get lost in the incredible atmosphere that fills the air. An idyllic destination famed for its atmospheric sense of calm and elegance.

Are you tempted?

If you’d like to discuss future travel plans you have in mind, get in contact with our in-house travel consultant, Sian Pages, on sian.pages@notjusttravel.com.

Sian will be more than happy to spend time talking you through your options; remembering her service is delivered at no cost to clients and professional connections of Longhurst.

Happy Adventures!