Intrepid Travel’s Expanded Europe Tours in Lesser-Known Destinations

Overtourism has returned with a vengeance in popular countries and cities around the world; in response, Intrepid Travel is offering globetrotters a chance to pivot and take part in a slate of new tours meant to showcase lesser known locales throughout Europe.

The company announced today that it has launched 32 such tours across 15 countries, marking one of the largest regional expansions to date for the global tour operator.

In addition to featuring less well-known locations, the new tours offer alpine hikes, locally led experiences, and cultural journeys, allowing travelers to explore the European continent from an entirely fresh perspective.

The launch comes after another summer shaped by overtourism and evolving climate conditions in Europe, which are influencing how and when travelers explore the continent.

While Intrepid bookings to eternally popular destinations like Greece, Spain and Croatia are still seeing considerable year-on-year growth, according to the tour company, a growing number of travelers are opting to visit such destinations during shoulder season months (when the crowds have dissipated.)

At the same time, demand for alternative summer destinations has surged – up 23 percent in the Nordics and 52 percent in the Balkans – with Serbia, the Czech Republic and Albania ranking among Intrepid’s fastest-growing European destinations, the company said.

“Travelers have long loved Europe, but overtourism and climate change are reshaping where and how people choose to explore,” said Erica Kritikides, general manager of Experiences at Intrepid Travel.

“Iconic sights remain popular, yet more are seeking hidden gems, deeper cultural connections and, at times, cooler conditions,” Kritikides added.

Here’s a closer look at some of the new trips that have just been revealed by Intrepid.

• Northern Sweden by Rail (9 days): 
Journey through wild Arctic landscapes on a nine-day rail adventure across Northern Norway and Sweden. Travel through Abisko National Park and endless tundra, stopping at remote villages and outposts near the polar circle.
• Norway: Hike, Bike & Kayak (7 days)
: Ride one of the world’s steepest cable cars for stunning fjord views, cycle around turquoise Lake Lovatnet, hike to Briksdal Glacier, and kayak the UNESCO-listed Nærøyfjord, paddling past waterfalls with the chance to spot seals along the way.
• Greece & Turkey Adventure: Athens to Istanbul (9 days):
Take the road less traveled from Athens to Istanbul with an overland journey that explores lesser-known cities, quiet villages, and age-old temples.
• Explore Faroe Islands (5 days): 
Experience the charm of the Faroe Islands by exploring quiet coastal villages, hiking dramatic sea cliffs, visiting working farms that blend tradition with innovation, and enjoying a home-cooked Faroese lunch at a historic family homestead.
• Premium Walking and Hiking in Madeira (6 days)
: Hike to hidden peaks and Pico Ruivo for sweeping views of volcanic landscapes and secluded beaches, then enjoy local produce, fresh seafood, and a visit to a traditional winery for a taste of Madeira’s famous wine.

The new tours aimed at easing overcrowding are just the latest example of how Intrepid works to respond to current events and issues facing countries around the world.

Earlier this summer, the responsible and B-Corp certified tour operator announced two new limited-edition tours supporting the National Parks in response to the Trump Administration’s proposed $1 billion cut to the U.S. National Parks Service and the dismissal of more than 1,500 NPS staff members.

This article originally appeared in TravelPulse.

Contact My Journey Begins Travel to book one (or more) of Intrepid Travel’s lesser-know Europe tours.