Venture somewhere new or see an old favorite in a fresh light. From chasing the northern lights to experiencing the world’s best wine countries, we’ve gathered stories and insider tips on the places you simply can’t miss.
May 1, 2026
Why the World’s Happiest Countries Might Just Be Your Next Great Adventure
Every year, the World Happiness Report reminds us of something we already knew—some places just feel, well, happier. That feeling comes from a unique blend of connection, nature and balance, plus a certain je ne sais quoi that shifts in subtle, fascinating ways from place to place. In this year’s CNBC list of the happiest countries on Earth, nine of the top ten are places you can explore with Backroads, with a few exciting new trips in 2027!
Many countries call themselves “the crossroads of Europe,” but Romania has a particularly strong claim to take the cake. It’s where the Danube meets the sea, where the Balkans meet Central Europe, where Latin culture meets Slavic and where north meets south.
“Autumn is a second spring when every leaf is a flower,” wrote Albert Camus, and October says it’s true. Dynamic colors, shifting light, foliage stepping back so the wildlife can really stand out–the world just looks a little different at this time of year.
Whether you’ve decided to get a head start on summer, find yourself with unexpected time off or are just a little behind on planning, here is a selection of trips departing
Island life truly has a je ne sais quoi that slows you down, awakens your sense of wonder and naturally disconnects you from the rest of the world. At Backroads, we also love islands of all shapes, sizes and climates! Here’s a list of our European island trips to consider for your next getaway.
Give me a vacation in September over any other month of the year. Crowds wane, temperatures mellow and popular destinations relax from the tourist crush and ease back into the local routine. I love how the food changes with the season too: peach pies are amazing, chestnuts and cranberries begin to appear in markets, apples are absolutely perfect and wine and produce festivals are scheduled every weekend.
The MICHELIN Guide’s list of the best places to travel in 2026 highlights destinations where cuisine reflects a strong sense of place. Several of these regions also happen to be Backroads destinations, where we take you on active adventures deep into the landscapes and culture of a region. While the world’s great food destinations are often defined by restaurants, the deeper story begins in the landscapes that shape them. At a hiking pace or biking speed, it's easy to stop and see the vineyards where the wine begins, the farms where cheeses are made and the markets where local cooks gather their ingredients.
Our staff in the field are intrepid travelers with expertise in the countries where they work. They also have another thing in common: they have a deep appreciation for their regions and are always excited to share their favorite stories. I asked some of them recently about traveling to the same destinations in summer vs. winter, and I was treated to great conversations, along with some bonus insider tips.
Think you know your 30s & 40s Backroads adventures? From volcanic islands to alpine ridgelines, bluegrass country to glacier-carved wilderness, each itinerary has its own signature setting and style. Read the clues and see if you can spot what sets them apart. Some may seem similar at first glance, but the details make all the difference.
