As the seasons shift and summer gives way to autumn in the northern hemisphere, opinions are often divided. Some people welcome the change – the slower pace, the crisp air, the promise of wintery landscapes and cosy evenings. Others dread the shorter days and colder weather, worried it will put a stop to their adventures.

Whichever camp you’re in, we’re here to remind you that autumn and the months that follow can be some of the best times to explore. From embracing the cold, to energising mini adventures, to escaping it all in search of sun – here’s our adventurer’s guide to enjoying autumn.

Make the most of the off-season

It’s easy to think straight ahead to winter – with excitement, trepidation or sometimes dread – but we’re here to remind you not to wish your autumn life away. The off-season is here.

With rich vibrant colours, mellow sunshine and a slower pace to everything. This time of year offers quieter trails, richer wildlife encounters, and a chance to support local communities when visitor numbers – and incomes – are lower. With fewer crowds and more meaningful connections, it’s the perfect time to travel differently.

Our pick for this year’s off-season? It has to be a 15 day coast to coast cycle across Costa Rica, where you’ll discover stunning views and an abundance of wildlife in the national parks before the main visitor season kicks into action. 

Find Awe in nature 

Every season brings its own magic, with moments that can only be experienced during that specific time of the year. Autumn is no different with a range of natural wonders to experience from spectacular colour displays of the leaves and foliage to sunsets and sunrises that light up the sky at easy to watch times of the day.

The changing of the seasons is also one of the best times of the year to witness wildlife in all its majesty. Whether it’s migratory bird species making an appearance, hibernating mammals emerging to prepare their winter nests and dens, or the start of some species’ breeding season – there’s plenty going on in the animal kingdom. Amongst our favourites are the UK’s mesmerising starling murmurations and in Alaska you can’t beat watching bears and sealions hunt during the salmon run.

If you know where to look, there are plenty of ways to celebrate nature in Autumn.

Brave The Dark

Very few people want to leave the comfort of a warm, brightly lit home and head out into the night (Although we know plenty of adventurers who do!) but we promise you everything feels more adventurous in the dark!

From night time runs to stargazing sessions, spending time under the night sky is an epic way to bring more ‘Micro Adventures’ into your mid-week. With early sunsets it’s also the perfect time of year to brush up your night-navigation skills and knowledge of the stars. 

Whilst some dread the darker nights, others see it as an opportunity. In fact, some of the most magnificent things to be seen on this planet only happen under the cover of darkness. Look out for glow in the dark bioluminescent dolphins on your next sailing adventure, or, for the ultimate nighttime adventure make your way to remote Finland for a chance to see the northern lights. 

Embrace The Cold

All skiers, snowboarders, cold water swimmers and other winter sports enthusiasts will know what we mean. If you have enough hobbies there is no such thing as bad weather! It’s time to wrap up warm and get out there. 

In the Northern Hemisphere we’re creeping towards Winter, but on the other side of the world the seasons are turning towards Summer and with it the Antarctic sailing season. You could find yourself on a sailing adventure to the Falkland Islands and Antarctica, where you’ll see pristine landscapes, some of the world’s largest penguin colonies, icebergs and maybe even whales.

Or plan ahead to experience a different kind of Christmas – On board a tall ship in the Beagle Channel, where a festive Christmas dinner awaits, surrounded by the snow-capped peaks.

Slow It All Down 

All around the leaves are falling, animals are preparing to hibernate and plants dying back – if everything else in nature is slowing down to rest, you know that we should too.

Cancel plans, get the cozy blankets out and spend some time leaning into Danish “Hygge” – there will be plenty of adventures out there waiting for you when you’re ready.

If you’re looking for an adventure to throw you into a different pace, November brings the start of the westbound Transatlantic sailing season where you can enjoy the unhurried rhythm of crossing oceans powered by the wind. It’s a rare chance to step away from the noise of modern life, reflect, be present, and reconnect with nature – all whilst building new skills, experiencing true freedom, and forging friendships that last a lifetime.

Plan Ahead 

Maps to the ready!

Sometimes planning an adventure can be almost as fun as doing the adventure itself. As we research routes, learn about places we’ve never heard of and imagine what it’s like to visit, we can add a sprinkle of excitement to the autumn/ winter season.

Close the curtains, pour yourself a mug of your favourite autumn drink and have the snacks to hand. Your Summer self will thank you for all the hours you’ve put in and the plans you’ve made.

Whether it’s sailing the North West Passage, hiking to Everest Base Camp or sailing a tall ship around the Caribbean, our 2026 calendar of adventures is sure to get you excited.

Escape it all for winter sun 

If you’re still not sold on embracing the season, there’s always the option to escape to warmer climes to enjoy the winter sun. In fact, having something to look forward to often makes the transition into winter easier for those who find it less enjoyable. We’ll bet that 11 days of tropical sailing in the Cape Verde Isles will get rid of the winter blues. After all, nothing beats swapping grey skies for sunny sailing, turquoise waters and exploring somewhere new.

Plan your adventurous autumn today 

To plan your next big autumn adventure, browse our range of unique experiences via our website. See something you like, or want to know what type of adventure would be best for you? Don’t hesitate to get in touch.