Portugal & Germany: European Adrenaline

Arrive at Newark Airport (EWR) where you’ll meet your Rustic Pathways Flight Leader, who will help get you checked in and through security before traveling with your group to Portugal. Get acquainted with fellow Rustic travelers before boarding your flight. Get some rest on the flight because this is going to be a great week!

Touch down in Lisbon and meet your Program Leaders who will guide you throughout this adventure. Begin your journey with a visit to a vibrant local market, where you can experience the sights, sounds, and flavors of Portuguese culture. Afterward, enjoy a delicious traditional Portuguese lunch before heading to the villa base house in Setúbal.

At the base house, you’ll learn about the week ahead, expectations for your adventure, and local culture. Relax, play fun games, and enjoy pool time as you get settled. You’ll share rooms with 2-3 other students, separated by gender. Our spacious and comfortable accommodations will be where we can recharge and connect during our exciting adventure.

Kickstart your journey with surf lessons at Costa da Caparica’s beautiful beaches. Expert instructors will help you catch your first wave. In the afternoon, team up for a beach cleanup, actively contributing to marine conservation efforts.

Continue your surf lessons, honing your skills in the morning waves. Later, delve into a marine conservation workshop where you’ll learn about the impact of climate change on Lisbon’s coastal ecosystems and brainstorm your own sustainability initiatives.

Explore Lisbon’s streets, from the historic Alfama district to the modern LX Factory. We’ll uncover hidden gems and immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere. Try the famous custard tart called Pastel de Nata, and spend some time shopping for unique souvenirs. We’ll indulge in a traditional feast at a local restaurant for dinner.

Set off on a scenic boat tour around Arrábida, Troia, and Setúbal. Dive into the clear waters or try stand-up paddle boarding before savoring a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, relax and explore the stunning beaches of Parque Natural da Arrábida, enjoying beach games and the beauty of Portugal’s coastline.

Begin your day with a visit to Regaleira Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning architecture and mysterious underground tunnels. Next, enjoy a yummy traditional lunch in a charming local village, savoring authentic Portuguese flavors. After lunch, take a leisurely stroll along a local beach, soaking in the beauty of the coastal scenery.

Continue your journey to Cabo da Roca, the westernmost point of mainland Europe, where breathtaking cliffs and panoramic views await. From there, step into the Enchanted Forest, a magical place said to be where elves reside. After returning to our villa, we’ll gather for a heartfelt Rustic Ties ceremony, reflecting on your journey and the connections you’ve made along the way.

Your Program Leaders will help you have a relaxing day at a hotel in Lisbon where you can rest up for the continuing adventures in Germany. Tomorrow we make our way to Munich!

Get ready for an exhilarating two days in Munich! After settling into your cozy accommodations, dive right into the city’s vibrant atmosphere. Start your adventure at Marienplatz, where the iconic Glockenspiel comes to life, captivating onlookers with its charming show. Then, wander through the bustling Viktualienmarkt, a foodie’s paradise brimming with fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and tempting treats. With each step, you’ll discover Munich’s rich history and lively culture, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience!

Today we will transfer to the famous BMW museum where you will get to witness the amazing history and development of the brand over the years. We will head back in town to relax and have a picnic at one of the largest inner city parks in the world, Englischer Garten. Where you get to witness people from all over the world try their hand at urban river surfing.

Get ready for an exhilarating journey to Bad Reichenhall, your perfect alpine base for adventure! Nestled in stunning mountain scenery, this charming town offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. From here, prepare for an adrenaline-pumping rafting experience on the spectacular Saalach River! Feel the rush as you navigate thrilling rapids, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and the sound of rushing water.
Stroll through picturesque streets, where stunning alpine views and quaint architecture create a perfect backdrop. We will enjoy a delicious lunch at a traditional German food hall, where you can try the local specialities. We will unwind at our cozy basehouse, enjoying some well-deserved downtime to recharge for the next few days.

Get ready for an exhilarating day in Salzburg, where stunning baroque architecture and rich history come alive! We will stroll through the charming Old Town, where picturesque streets are lined with vibrant shops and cafes and explore the beautiful Mirabell Gardens, bursting with colorful blooms and perfectly manicured landscapes.

On our final day in Bavaria we will hop on a ferry and glide across the stunning emerald waters of Lake Königssee, surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks. Our adventure takes us to the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Church, where we’ll enjoy a delightful picnic lunch with jaw-dropping views that will leave you in awe. Afterward, embark on a short hike that reveals stunning panoramas above the water, each step offering a new breathtaking perspective. As the day winds down, we’ll head back to the basehouse for a cozy final night together, sharing stories and memories under the alpine sky.
We’ll participate in Rustic Ties, to capture the memories and learning moments of the program to process and share back home.

Today we will wake up and travel back to Munich to catch your flight back home or on to your next adventure!