1. Embark On A Group Adventure

Whether it’s the energy of travelling with like-minded people or the insight that comes from genuine experts, the Steppes Travel Group Collection helps you see the world better. You’ll travel in a small group, guided by trusted hosts, charismatic experts and passionate storytellers, all united by curiosity and a spirit of adventure. From immersive cultural experiences like India’s Aoling Festival and wildlife encounters such as tracking primates in Gabon, to pioneering tours like the 4x4 expedition in Costa Rica, each departure offers insider access, exclusive charters and rarely seen perspectives. Your hosts will open doors that guidebooks can’t: to communities, landscapes and stories that stay with you.

Discover more and book your Steppes group tour at steppestravel.com

2. It’s Digital Detox Time

Our phone-addicted, peace-starved generation is craving something simpler, and that’s exactly what this British collaboration has nailed. Cornwall wellbeing centre Cabilla has teamed up with the off-grid cabins of Unplugged to create a new three-night digital detox retreat in July. Think forest bathing, cold plunges, morning yoga, sound healing, sauna sessions and plenty of solo time. Here’s how to grab a spot.

3. Plunge Into Diving

Did someone say adventure? As the climate crisis rages on and wildlife is evermore endangered, it’s no wonder we’re more drawn than ever to the magnificent blue waters that make up over 70 percent of this magical world of ours, says Ina Yulo Stuve. Diving plays a key role in marine conservation; here are seven places dive into.

4. UK Adventures

The very best adventures aren’t always overseas (or under them). From ziplines to horseriding, falconry to mountainbiking, there’s adventure galore on home shores. Here are eight to start with.

5. Uncharted Wildlife

Safari holidays will always have our heart, but there’s something special about the beachfront biodiversity Madagascar boasts. Think red ruffed lemurs (one of the island’s circa 100 species), geckos and golden orb-weaver spiders, all valuable strands in this Unesco-protected island’s incredibly unique fabric (82 percent of all plants and 90 percent of all Madagascan animals are found here and only here). Emma Love discovers it all.

6. Dark Skies

Summer nights may be the shortest, but they’re also the clearest: all the better for spying the magnificent wonders of our universe. Our abundance of green space here in the UK means we also host some of the darkest skies in Europe. Our top pick while the evenings remain warm is Dalby Forest with its stargazing walks, forest bathing and late night yoga with local guides.

7. Off-Peak Greece

Shoulder seasons, we love you. This Greek island is renowned for its greenery, beaches and lively nightlife – but did you know Skiathos is also a burgeoning foodie hotspot? We picked the brains of chef Nikos Dimos for the best spots to sample when the heat has cooled off…

For something closer to home, here are the UK’s very best restaurants with rooms, plus news of five-star Grantley Hall’s new foodie pub launching this summer.

8. Sexy Hotels

Who said sexy escapes are just for February? A truly seductive stay is rarely just about what happens between the sheets, says Olivia Petter. These are the sexy British hotels we’ll be booking into this year, from a four-poster in Scotland to private Lake District spa lodges.

Join today and enjoy digital editions of all our publications (worth £39), exclusive discounts and offers from our advertising partners, plus...

Automatic entry into all of our competitions for an entire year.

£2.50 per month (billed annually)

Great British & Irish Hotels 2025/26

WIN A Three-Night Stay In The Bahamas

If you’re on the hunt for spectacular holiday plans, look no further: we’re offering you the chance to win a bed-and-breakfast stay at The Potlatch Club in the Bahamas. Click here to find out more and to enter. Good luck!