Backroads Highlights Active Travel Trends for 2025
Backroads, a leader in the active travel sector, has unveiled its most anticipated travel trends for 2025 based on early guest bookings. This year promises increased excitement across various travel styles, appealing to diverse age groups and interests. Here are the key trends shaping the future of active getaways:
1. Women-Only Expeditions
The rise of exclusive adventures dedicated to women continues to gain momentum. Travelers, whether venturing alone or with friends, are leaning towards women-only hiking and walking tours. Backroads expects a 100% increase in participation for its Women's Adventures in 2025. Popular trips include the
Ireland Women's Walking and Hiking Tour and the
A Taste of Camino de Santiago Women's Walking Tour.
2. Challenging Alpine Hiking
For enthusiasts drawn by the allure of nature, rigorous mountain hiking experiences are steadily rising in popularity, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in stunning landscapes. Notable tours are being offered in areas including
Chile's Patagonia,
Italy's Dolomites, and
Norway's Lofoten Islands, which showcase spectacular trail options.
3. Relaxed Exploration in Epic Regions
Not every traveler seeks high-octane adventures; many prefer leisurely explorations that combine culture and natural beauty. Backroads has curated easy-going tours in beautiful venues such as the Canadian Rockies, Peru, and the Austrian Alps to cater to these 'chill seekers'.
4. Enchantment of Portugal's Islands
Post-pandemic, the enchanting islands of Madeira and the Azores are beckoning travelers with their captivating landscapes. With increased flight availability, demand for tours in these beautiful locales has skyrocketed, doubling the departure dates for Backroads' explorations here in 2025.
5. The Allure of Unique Destinations
Adventurers eager to experience lesser-known paths will find delight in unique spots like Belfast, Newfoundland, and Tasmania. Backroads' offerings in
Canada's Gulf Islands and
Norway's Ålesund Multi-Adventure Tour present these immersive travel opportunities.
6. The Back-to-Basics Bike Tours
Cycling in its purest form is gaining traction, prompting Backroads to introduce Unplugged Bike Tours. These tours prioritize the sheer joy of pedaling with fellow cycling enthusiasts, uncongenially opting for traditional bicycles over e-bikes. A standout in this category is the
Spain's Mallorca Unplugged Bike Tour.
7. Connecting with Dark Skies
Beyond daylight, the night sky is igniting travelers' curiosity with stargazing and eclipse chasing gaining traction. Backroads promotes unforgettable trips during the 2026 solar eclipse, as travelers plan to soak in stunning nocturnal views in idyllic settings such as Bryce and Zion National Parks.
8. France: A Timeless Destination
Despite the spotlight on Paris during the 2024 Olympic Games, the whole of France remains a captivating travel choice. Explorers can combine activities ranging from historical tours in Normandy to gastronomic adventures in the Loire Valley. The
Bordeaux Dordogne Bike Tour is one such highlight.
9. Growing Popularity of Winter Travel
Travelers are expanding their vacational pursuits to winter months. Whether it's enjoying guided snowshoeing experiences or relaxing beach retreats, winter is becoming a primary travel season.
10. Experience-Driven Travel
In a shift from materialism, travelers are prioritizing enriching experiences over material goods, focusing instead on cultural immersion and connection to nature. Indulging in active travel as gifts also fosters family connections and provides unforgettable moments. Popular offerings include tours in
Greenland,
Iceland, and
Bhutan.
In conclusion, Backroads founder Tom Hale states, "Trends may evolve, yet the passion for exploring the remarkable remains a timeless wish. For 45 years, we’ve been listening to our guests and identifying their preferences to create adventures that reflect their desires."
Backroads is committed to crafting exhilarating travel experiences in breathtaking locations worldwide. With an impressive range of options from biking to hiking and multi-adventure formats, this company amplifies the joy of active exploration, ensuring travelers build lasting memories.
To explore more about Backroads offerings, visit
backroads.com or contact them directly at 800-462-2848.