While some holidaymakers seek pure relaxation, a growing number are chasing transformative journeys packed with unique experiences. The latest list of must-book adventures from National Geographic for 2026 highlights this global shift, and excitingly for Brits, two of the top picks are right here in the UK.
Global Travel Trends Favour Experience and Wellness
This focus on meaningful travel aligns with major industry reports. The United Nations World Tourism Organisation predicts that global travel demand will outpace pre-pandemic levels through 2025 and into 2026. This surge is driven by increased interest in nature-based, wellness, and cultural experiences.
Meanwhile, the World Travel & Tourism Council has identified a move towards 'transformational travel', where tourists seek personal growth and a deeper connection with the environment. From endurance challenges to restorative retreats, the desire for trips that change the traveller is reshaping the industry.
Northumberland's Night Sky Safari
Topping the UK entries is a mini stargazing safari in Northumberland. The region has capitalised on a post-COVID surge in astronomy interest, launching new facilities and experiences. At the heart of this celestial offering is the Kielder Observatory, the UK's most revered astronomical institution outside of Greenwich.
This public observatory and educational charity, set in a purpose-built timber structure in Kielder Forest, runs over 700 events annually. It caters to all ages, from six to 100. With January nights drawing in early—sunset is around 4pm for much of the month—it's an ideal time for stargazing. Ticket prices range from £25 for children's events to £59 for the late-night Dark Sky Discovery experience, which runs from 11pm to 1am.
London's Urban Wellness Revolution
The second UK-based experience is a world away from the dark skies of Northumberland: sweating it out in an urban sauna in London. As city life becomes more hectic, the capital is leading a wellness trend that lets busy Londoners de-stress on a lunch break.
One standout option is Rooftop Saunas in Hackney, perched high above an East London office block with panoramic city views. For a more rustic charm, Hackney's Community Sauna Baths offers a retreat in a yard filled with potted plants. Further south, Peckham’s Sauna Social Club allows visitors to unwind in a converted railway arch, with the gentle rumble of trains overhead adding to the atmosphere.
Other Global Highlights for 2026
National Geographic's full list of 20 adventures spans the globe, offering diverse experiences for 2026. Other notable entries include a modern-day pilgrimage along Portugal’s 143-mile Fishermen’s Trail, with six-night trips starting from £599 per person.
Adrenaline seekers can conquer Slovenia in six days, scaling the 9,395ft Mount Triglav and enjoying biking and rafting on trips from £876. For profound relaxation, forest bathing (shinrin yoku) in Japan's sacred Kii Peninsula starts from £25 per session. Meanwhile, a warm mud bath on Italy's volcanic Vulcano island offers therapeutic benefits for just £4 per person.
The message for UK travellers is clear: whether seeking cosmic wonder under Northumberland's protected dark skies or an urban reset in a London sauna, world-class transformative experiences are closer to home than ever.
