The perfect trip for Scouts and Guides is all about fun, friendship and enriching experiences – and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune. We understand the value travel provides to groups, whether it’s a close-to-home adventure or an expedition across the globe. Travel plays an important role in broadening horizons and expanding worldviews, allowing young people to visit new destinations, engage with different cultures and meet new people. That’s why we’ve put together our top destinations under £1000 that offer the Scouting and Guiding community an adventure of a lifetime.
Switzerland, Adelboden and KISC
Switzerland is one of the top destinations for Scouts and Guides, with groups from across the globe coming together in a shared spirit of adventure, international friendship and cultural exchange. Whether you’re staying in a chalet in Adelboden or a campsite at KISC, groups can get the ultimate traditional Swiss Alps experience. Just imagine waking up and spending an action-packed day surrounded by breathtaking views of lush green valleys, snow-capped mountains and chocolate box chalets!
Switzerland offers both Scouts and Guides a variety of fun and thrilling activities that will challenge them and help them work as a team. From white water rafting and canyoning to rock climbing, mountain biking and visits to nearby towns, each day will bring a new experience. This destination is perfect for groups looking to tick off an iconic destination within the community, where members can grow their skills and build international connections while creating lifelong memories.
Croatia, Pula
Embark on a Croatian adventure to Pula, where groups will be met with glorious Mediterranean sun and clear blue waters. Dive into action as soon as you land, from snorkelling in caves to paddleboarding and high ropes courses, Croatia has it all. From morning until night, groups will make the most out of every moment, taking part in exciting activities such as snorkelling, paddleboarding, a high ropes adventure course and more!
On a trip to Croatia, taking a guided tour of the vibrant city of Pula is a must. Explore the Roman, Venetian, and Austrian influences that have shaped the charming city as we know it today. Visit ancient Roman ruins such as the Pula Arena and the Temple of Augustus, where groups will be in awe of its history. For a cultural twist on an adventure holiday, spend a day in Venice. Make the most of the day by wandering around the canals and the timeless streets, taking in all of the marvellous sights, sounds and smells of the city.
Italy, Rome, Sicily and The Dolomites and Lake Garda
Italy is among the top 10 countries most visited in the world, and for good reason. It’s renowned across the globe for its cuisine, art and history, most notably its preserved ruins of ancient Rome. Groups can explore Rome’s expansive past through visits to the magnificent Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Vatican City. Groups can immerse themselves in a time gone by, all while trying traditional Roman dishes and sampling authentic Italian Gelato.
If groups are looking for an alpine adventure, then look no further than the Dolomites and Lake Garda! The Dolomites and Lake Garda are among the most renowned destinations for water sports and adventure, so expect each day to be jam-packed with adrenaline-fuelled activities. Here, Scouts and Guides can enjoy canyoning, a boat tour of Lake Garda, mountain biking and a day at the Caneva World Waterpark. It truly is one of nature’s most beautiful playgrounds!
However, if the Sicilian sun is calling, then head to the tip of Italy’s boot for an unforgettable adventure in the Mediterranean! Known for its dramatic scenery, active volcanoes and ancient history, Sicily provides groups with all kinds of exploration and action, including a guided trek on Vulcano and exploring the remnants in Taormina. Whether it’s embracing the outdoor adventures of the Dolomites, uncovering Rome’s ancient history or exploring Sicily’s volcanic landscapes, Italy offers a perfect blend of culture, excitement and adventure for any Scout or Guide trip.
Belgium, De Kluis and the WW1 Battlefields
Belgium is a great close-to-home option that offers Scouts and Guides the opportunity to visit a new city or experience what life was like in the trenches of the First World War. Both destinations are full of adventurous activities while providing cultural enrichment.
On a trip to De Kluis, groups can immerse themselves in adventure, taking part in thrilling activities such as mountain biking, high ropes courses and more! And for a cultural element of the trip, wander the streets of the medieval cities of Brussels, Ghent or Bruges, cities renowned for their confectionery and cuisines, beautiful architecture and picturesque canals.
Groups can embark on a historical and poignant journey to the Western Front and learn about the experiences of frontline soldiers who lived during this time of terror and turbulence. Scouts and Guides will be immersed in a time gone by, walking through reconstructed trenches, visiting museums and paying respect to fallen service men and women at memorial sites.
Groups have the option to combine a trip to the Battlefields with a visit to Bruges, getting an all-round experience.
Isle of Arran
Another excellent close-to-home destination is the Isle of Arran. Known as ‘Scotland in Miniature’, the Isle of Arran provides Scouts and Guides with everything they need for an unforgettable adventure in the great outdoors. From abseiling and ladders to rock climbing and mountain biking, the Isle of Arran is truly the perfect destination for an adventure holiday. And with activities such as raft building, bushcraft and orienteering, it’s a great opportunity for groups to work together and bond as a team while developing their personal skills.
Each member can make the best of their trip by getting out in nature and soaking up the stunning scenery of the Scottish Isles. Whether it’s out on a guided gorge hike where groups will be met with obstacles up the River Sannox, mountain walking or taking to the water on an open canoe or paddleboard, they will be amazed by the postcard-worthy landscapes, so don’t forget a camera!
The Isle of Arran is where action and adventure meet moments of calmness and connection. It’s a great destination for first-time travellers or groups looking for an adventure that isn’t too far away but still delivers an exciting and enriching outdoor experience that all groups will thoroughly enjoy.
Ready to take the next step?
We have worked with local commissioners, lead volunteers, and unit leaders for over 50 years to create incredible travel experiences, and we continue to support you in creating unforgettable adventures. Contact us to get started.
