For the past five years, my group of fifteen friends has embarked on annual mystery trips, a tradition filled with excitement and surprises. The concept is simple yet thrilling—each year, two people in the group take charge of planning a long weekend adventure, while the rest of us are left in the dark about the destination and activities until the very last moment. With every trip, two new people take on the role of organizers, keeping the spirit fresh and the surprises endless.
These trips always have a unique theme, often inspired by popular TV shows. Our first year set the tone for adventure when we hiked the majestic mountains of Norway. We stayed at Jotunheimen National Park, nestled in cozy mountain cabins, and refueled with hearty meals at Gjendesheim Lodge, known for its local Norwegian cuisine. The highlight was a trek up the stunning Besseggen Ridge, one of Norway’s most famous hikes, where the view over the turquoise lakes took our breath away.
Another year, the trip was set in the heart of the Czech Republic with a “Taskmaster” theme. We stayed at a charming boutique hotel, Hotel Paris Prague, just steps from Old Town Square. Dining was a delight, with an unforgettable meal at La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise, a Michelin-starred restaurant serving modern takes on Czech classics. The trip’s activities revolved around quirky challenges and competitions across Letná Park and the beautiful Charles Bridge, with every corner of Prague offering a chance for fun and laughter.
Most recently, we found ourselves in the Spanish countryside for a “Dancing with the Stars”-themed escape. Our home base was a stunning villa in Andalusia, surrounded by olive groves. We dined on tapas at El Pimpi in Málaga, where the jamón ibérico and local wine made every evening special. By day, we took dance lessons in a quaint local studio, and by night, we laughed as we performed under the stars in the villa’s courtyard. The nearby Alcazaba of Málaga was a perfect cultural escape, offering history and beautiful views over the Mediterranean.
Next year, it’s my turn to plan the trip with my friend, and we are determined to push the group out of its comfort zone. Being based in Scandinavia, we want to stay within Europe, but we’re aiming for a destination that’s both exciting and off the beaten path. With a budget of 1000 EUR per person for 4-5 days, we have some fantastic ideas brewing.
I’m particularly excited about exploring Slovenia. We could stay in the picturesque capital, Ljubljana, at Hotel Cubo, a chic, modern boutique hotel right in the heart of the city. A meal at JB Restaurant, one of Slovenia’s finest, would give us a taste of local cuisine with a modern twist. For activities, I’m eager to plan a day trip to Lake Bled, where we can row to the island and ring the wishing bell. Another exciting adventure would be canyoning in Triglav National Park, where the waterfalls and gorges offer a thrill for everyone.
Renting cars from Avant Car Slovenia would allow us to explore the surrounding areas at our own pace, perhaps driving through the Soča Valley or visiting the Postojna Caves. This mystery trip is shaping up to be an unforgettable mix of nature, adventure, and culture, with plenty of surprises in store for our group. I can’t wait to see their reactions!
For more inspiration, check out Ventana Travel to explore exciting travel ideas. If you’re looking to make the most out of your airline miles for future trips, this guide offers fantastic tips.
