20 Off-Grid Adventures from Major European Hubs

Bone Church in Kutna Hora, Czech Republic

Formally known as the Sedlec Ossuary, the Bone Church is about an hour’s train ride outside Prague’s city center. This obscure place is home to over 40,000 people’s bones. While this half-day trip might be outside typical tourists’ itineraries, the chandeliers made of skulls and femurs are a must-see.

Organic wineries outside the hustle & bustle of Madrid, Spain

Popular wine-making regions just a short drive outside Madrid include La Mancha, Toledo, and Ribera del Duero. These regions are all home to many family-owned and operated organic wineries. Many winery tours start in Madrid’s city center, and then they visit two to three wineries, giving tourists a sensory experience and understanding of the factors differentiating Madrid’s wine from other European wines.

Mineral lake outside of Athens, Greece

Everyone knows the thick of the summer in Athens, Greece, can become unbearably hot, yet few people know about Lake Vouliagmeni. While it’s tempting to gatekeep such a hidden gem, it feels sinful not to share the lake’s crystal clear waters, mineral properties, and healing benefits. Not only does this oasis offer lakeside bar service and plushy lounge chairs, but the fish in the lake eat the dead skin off of your feet; this place is genuinely nature’s spa.

Tropical-esque beaches a bus ride from Malaga, Spain

While the beaches in Malaga are stunning, they are no comparison to the crystal-clear waters of Nerja. In just an hour’s bus ride from Malaga’s city center, you can feel as if you were transported to Greece. This beachside town adds a Spanish twist to Greece’s classic all-white-blue-accent architecture. Be sure to get to the beach early to secure a good spot.

Hot air balloon rides in Segovia, Spain

While this may not be everyone’s cup of tea if you were to go hot-air ballooning…Segovia is the place to do it. In less than an hour bus or train ride outside Madrid’s city center, you can feel as if you were transported to a fairytale. Walt Disney was so inspired by this magical city that he based Snow White’s castle on The Alcazar of Segovia (pictured). Even if you don’t go hot air ballooning in Segovia, walk through the enchanted streets, admire the ancient architecture, visit the aqueduct, and try local pork dishes.