5 outdoor adventures without technology, but with impact
When was the last time you turned off your phone, packed your backpack, and simply surrendered to nature? No Wi-Fi, no electricity, no comfortable bed – just you, your will, and what awaits you outside. Sound challenging? That's exactly what makes it so exciting! Here are five outdoor adventures that will catapult you out of your comfort zone and into the heart of nature.
1. Silent Hike: A Day Without Words
Grab a friend or go alone – but for a whole day, make sure you remain in absolute silence. No talking, no music, no distractions from your phone. Instead, focus your full attention on what's happening around you. You'll consciously hear the rustling of the leaves in the wind, the crunch of your footsteps on the forest floor, and maybe even your own breathing. It may feel strange at first, but the longer you persevere, the more intense your awareness becomes. Thoughts come and go while you simply remain in the moment. It's an adventure that not only brings you closer to nature but also allows your mind to calm down.
Tip: Since you're not supposed to use your phone on this hike, choose a trail you already know and where the risk of getting seriously lost is low. Unless you're comfortable with a good old paper map—in which case, feel free to explore new trails!
2. On the move from sunrise to sunset
Start your tour with the first light of day and stay outside until the last rays of sunshine. Whether you're hiking, paddling, or biking—your goal is to spend the entire day in nature without using a watch or your phone for orientation. Consciously pay attention to the rhythms of nature—at what time does it get quieter, and at what time does it get louder? Note down special moments, like the first bird call in the morning or the changing colors of the sky at sunset. A challenge for mind and body that's sure to take you out of your everyday routine.
Tip: Here, too, the rule applies: To avoid getting lost, plan a rough route beforehand. If you do get lost, just ask people you meet for directions, the old-school way.
3. Garbage collection trekking: Adventure with impact
Turn your hike into a sustainable mission: Grab a bag and pick up trash along the way—whether at the beach, in the forest, or along a river. What might seem like a small gesture at first can make a big difference. Every plastic lid removed, every piece of glass, contributes to keeping nature cleaner and more livable. At the same time, you'll sharpen your awareness of your surroundings and realize how much trash actually ends up in nature.
Tip: Set a small goal—for example, a certain number of pieces of trash collected or a route you want to clean. This will keep your motivation high and allow you to see immediately what you've accomplished.
4. Live one day only from nature
For one day, completely forgo any food you've brought with you and bottled water – instead, you'll live only on what nature provides. Look for edible plants, berries, or nuts (important: only eat what you can identify!). Find a water source and filter or boil your water to make it drinkable. Maybe even build simple tools out of wood and stone to help you navigate. It may be challenging at first, but you'll soon realize how much you can rely on your instincts. It's an adventure that not only promotes your independence but also connects you deeply with nature.
Tip: Of course, a few tools are allowed for your outdoor adventure. Feel free to bring a pocket knife, a flint (only light fires where it's permitted and safe!), or even a water filter to make your search for food a little easier.
5. Midnight swimming under the open sky
Make the night your outdoor adventure: After dark, find a secluded lake or river and take a dip – accompanied only by the light of the moon. Without the harsh daylight, the water seems almost magical: softer, quieter, more mysterious. The sounds of nature change, the air feels cooler, and every movement in the water leaves gentle ripples in the silver shimmer. If you're lucky, the stars will reflect off the surface, and for a moment, it'll feel as if you're floating between heaven and earth. An unforgettable experience that perfectly rounds off an adventure or can stand on its own.
Tip: If you're unsure, start with a foot bath or dive in slowly. This will allow your body to adjust to the dark water and allow you to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
You can find another exciting article on mindful travel and preserving nature here.
If you are looking for accommodation close to nature, here is a selection.
© Photos: Nadine Pinezits
Nadine Pinezits
Nadine is a freelance editor and copywriter. She lives in Austria and commutes between Salzburg and Vienna. This means she is either in the mountains or in the urban jungle, but at the same time tries to spend as much time as possible in her beloved country, Portugal.
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