Top 5 ultimate wildcard short breaks

27 October 2025

When you think of a short break, you might picture a familiar European city or a quiet country escape. But what if you could pack a real expedition into just a few days? For those who want to swap sightseeing for something more memorable, we’ve gathered five ultimate wildcard short breaks. These trips prove that with clever planning from your Travel Counsellor, you can fit a once-in-a-lifetime experience into a long weekend.

Gorilla trekking in Uganda

It might sound ambitious for a short break, but a trip to see Uganda’s mountain gorillas is more achievable than you think. Thanks to direct flights and a small time difference, you can minimise jet lag and maximise your time in the wild. In just four or five days, you can fly into Entebbe, travel to the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, and spend an unforgettable hour with one of the world's most endangered species. The trek through the dense, misty forest is a highlight in itself, but the moment you come face-to-face with a gorilla family is truly special.

Arctic wonders in Tromsø, Norway

For a complete change of scenery, head north into the Arctic Circle. A long weekend in Tromsø during the winter months offers the perfect blend of crisp air, stunning landscapes, and Arctic activities. By day, you can guide your own team of huskies on a thrilling dog-sledding excursion across the snow-covered wilderness. By night, your attention turns to the sky. Staying in a purpose-built Aurora Camp away from the city lights gives you the best chance of witnessing the Northern Lights.

Ancient history and otherworldly monasteries in Greece

Combine an iconic city break with a journey to a truly breathtaking landscape. Start your trip in Athens, where you can spend a day or two exploring ancient marvels like the Acropolis. Then, travel inland to Meteora. Here, you’ll find a remarkable collection of Eastern Orthodox monasteries perched dramatically atop immense natural rock pillars. It’s a landscape that looks like it’s been lifted from a fantasy novel. You can explore the monasteries, hike the scenic trails, and witness incredible sunsets over the unique geological formations.

A tale of two cities: Vilnius and Krakow

Why settle for one city break when you can easily experience two? The capitals of Lithuania and Poland are well-connected and offer a fascinating glimpse into Eastern Europe’s history and modern energy. Start in Vilnius, with its charming baroque old town and quirky artists' republic of Užupis. After a couple of days, a short flight takes you to Krakow. Here, you can explore the magnificent Wawel Castle, wander through the huge main market square, and reflect on history at the nearby Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial and Museum.

The five villages of Cinque Terre, Italy

Experience a slice of classic Italian life with a short break to the Cinque Terre. Fly into Pisa, pick up a car, and drive to the edge of this stunning coastal region. From there, it’s all about exploring on foot, by train, or by boat. The five iconic fishing villages, with their colourful houses tumbling down to the sea, are connected by scenic hiking trails and a convenient local train line. You’ll find Monterosso al Mare with its long sandy beach and fragrant lemon groves, while Corniglia, perched high above the sea, is only accessible by a zigzag stairway or shuttle, and the journey rewards you with sweeping views. Spend your days walking between the villages, enjoying fresh seafood lunches with harbour views, and soaking up the laid-back atmosphere.

To book your own wildcard trip, speak to your personal Travel Counsellor today.

Why Shizuoka, Japan, deserves to be on your bucket list

10 February 2026

Shizuoka is one of those places that quietly delivers on everything people love about Japan, without the intensity that often comes with it. Perfectly placed on the Golden Route between Tokyo and Kyoto, it’s easy to reach yet rarely feels overrun. This is a region where everyday life and travel experiences blend naturally, giving you space to explore at your own pace, whether that’s over a long weekend or as part of a wider journey across the country.

A modern take on Kyoto tradition at Capella Kyoto

09 February 2026

Kyoto’s Gion district is well-known for its heritage and character. Capella Kyoto places guests right in the heart of this cultural scene, surrounded by genuine traditions and the real rhythm of Kyoto life. With celebrated landmarks on all sides - Miyagawa-cho Kaburenjo, where geiko and maiko keep age-old performing arts alive, Kenninji Temple, a peaceful retreat and the city’s oldest Zen Buddhist temple, and Ebisu Shrine for good fortune - every walk from the hotel gives you an immediate sense of the history of this part of Japan.

A family-friendly way to experience Mount Fuji

09 February 2026

Japan has a way of rewarding travellers who slow down, and Hanz Outdoor Resort is especially well suited to families looking for space and ease. Set in the Lake Kawaguchiko area, it offers clear views of Mount Fuji while remaining straightforward to reach from Tokyo. Rather than packing days with long journeys, families can settle into one place and let the mountain become part of daily life, from relaxed mornings to evenings spent outdoors together. It’s a base that works just as well for first visits to Japan as it does for families returning to explore further.