As the year draws to a close, many of us find ourselves looking at the calendar and counting up the last days of our annual leave. Those precious pockets of time we’ve carefully saved are often earmarked for adventure, relaxation, and moments with the people who matter most.

But what if you’ve still got a few days left and aren’t sure how to use them?

Rather than letting them slip away, why not end the year with something unforgettable? Here’s our round-up of last-minute adventures which are sure to end your year on a high.

10 last minute adventures to use up your holiday in 2025

The year isn’t over yet. There’s plenty of time to squeeze in one last epic adventure. Here are our top picks to help you make the most of the months ahead.

Set sail from Bordeaux to Cascais 

Hop aboard a spectacular tall ship for 10 days of coastal and offshore sailing from France to Portugal. This beginner friendly adventure will have you learning the ropes of sailing a historic tall ship including steering, setting the sails and standing on watch – plus give you a taste of the ocean with a Bay of Biscay crossing. Along the way stop off in historic ports famous for their architecture, wine culture and stunning beaches.

Dates available: October 2025 

Discover China from Beijing to Shanghai 

Join an 11 day tour of China as you journey from Beijing to Shanghai. Along the way you’ll visit the country’s urban centres as well as its beautiful rural landscapes. Stop off points include camping on the Great Wall of China, hiking through the rural Hangzhou region and discovering the biggest city in the world – Shanghai. You’ll uncover fascinating history and indulge in the best of Chinese cuisine along the way.

Dates available: October and November 2025

Embark on a journey of sailing and mindfulness from Cascais to Tenerife

Combine self-care with adventure on an 11 day sailing journey from Cascais to Tenerife. With guidance in mindfulness, breathwork, meditation, journaling, and one-on-one coaching, you’ll experience the calming rhythm of the open sea whilst gaining fresh perspectives and personal growth along the way. This is a rare opportunity to combine deep self-development with warm weather sailing.

Dates available: October 2025

Head to Egypt for the Abu Simbel Sun Festival 

Witness the extraordinary architectural wonder of Abu Simbel, where twice a year the temple is illuminated by golden sunlight on the solstice. Your visit is perfectly timed to see both the temple entrance and the statues inside bathed in this magical light. You’ll also explore the Great Pyramids, encounter the mighty Giza Sphinx, and explore Egypt’s beautiful islands and ancient temples.

Dates available: October 2025

Sail from Rotterdam to Cape Verde aboard a Dutch tall ship 

Little beats the magnificence of a tall ship sailing through the seas and this voyage from the Netherlands to Cape Verde offers the chance to jump onboard for anything from an 8 day voyage to a full month-long journey – the distance is your choice! Perfect for adventure seekers, the first opportunity to join is in Rotterdam, with later legs starting in the UK, Portugal and Tenerife. En route you’ll build some significant sea miles, handle steering and navigating and enjoy some epic stargazing.

Dates available: November and December 2025

Finnish Wilderness Week 

Treat yourself to a dreamlike snowscape with a week in remote Finland. You’ll combine a range of wintery activities including dogsledding, skiing and a snowmobile safari – all whilst exploring the heart of Oulanka National Park. Your accommodation will be a self-sustained complex of wooden buildings, in the remote Finnish wilderness. After a day of adventure, relax next to a logfire or in the outdoor jacuzzi and sauna. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for the Northern Lights.

Dates available: December 2025 to April 2026

Sail across the Atlantic Ocean in the ARC Rally

In our opinion there is no better way to round off the year than spending an extensive period of time at sea. Sailing across an ocean is unlike anything else and you have a chance to sail across the Atlantic. Join a crew of professional sailors and participate in the ARC transatlantic race, where you’ll improve your sailing skills, make unforgettable memories and be a crucial member of the team. Choose to deliver the boat from France to the Canaries, or hop aboard for the full adventure all the way to the Caribbean.

Dates available: November to December 2025

Hike the mighty Himalayas 

This autumn you could hike the tallest mountain range in the world, where pristine snowy peaks, huge icy glaciers and panoramic mountaintop views await. Whether you’re looking to hike to Everest Base Camp, Explore the rhododendron forests of the Langtang Valley or take on the legendary Annapurna circuit, grab your hiking boots and make your way to Nepal for an unforgettable adventure.

Dates available: Throughout autumn and winter

Sail the Southern Ocean from Montevideo to Ushuaia

Embark on a beautiful two-week voyage from Montevideo to Ushuaia onboard a traditional tall ship. This voyage will see you navigate the Southern Ocean past the coastline of Patagonia and is rich with stunning scenery and wildlife encounters. Highlights include soaring albatross, dolphins riding the bow and the possibility of spotting whales – making it the perfect adventure for wildlife and nature lovers. There’s also the option to include an Atlantic crossing as part of this adventure, delivering this beautiful Dutch ship from Tenerife to Montevideo.

Dates available: December 2025

Sunshine sailing in the Cape Verde Islands 

Go on an adventure like no other with 11 days of tropical sailing in the Cape Verde Isles. You’ll sail between six magical volcanic islands, soaking up the scenery and the serenity of life at sea – all whilst learning how to sail a traditional tall ship and enjoying freshly cooked meals from an onboard chef. It rarely rains in Cape Verde and the sea is warm, making for a heavenly combination which guarantees to leave you feeling fully rejuvenated.

Dates available: December 2025

Book your adventure now 

Secure your place on one of these last-minute adventures to guarantee the best end to 2025.

Or, browse our future adventure collection to see what’s in store for 2026.