In the world of remote work, team travel has become the ultimate bonding experience. You’ve got folks dialing in from all corners of North America, Europe, and beyond. So, why settle for the same old, same old when it comes to your next team retreat? Forget the crowded beaches and tourist traps—let’s dive into some off-the-beaten-path ideas that will have your distributed team raving about the experience for years to come.
Don’t forget to use Team, Assemble! to figure out which of these far-off destinations works best for your team and your budget!
1. The Faroe Islands: Nature’s Best-Kept Secret
If your team is scattered across North America and Europe, the Faroe Islands are a hidden gem smack in the middle of the Atlantic. Imagine your team in a place where towering cliffs meet the roaring sea, puffins outnumber people, and Wi-Fi is surprisingly good. Perfect for teams looking to disconnect from the usual hustle and connect with each other instead.
With activities like hiking to remote waterfalls, exploring quaint villages, or even embarking on a boat trip through sea caves, the Faroe Islands offer a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Plus, the small size of the islands makes for easy coordination—ideal for distributed teams looking to maximize their time together.
2. The Azores: Europe’s Secret Islands
For a mix of volcanic landscapes, lush greenery, and oceanic wonders, head to the Azores, Portugal’s underrated island paradise. It’s a quick hop for your European teammates and worth the trek for those across the Atlantic. These islands offer something for everyone—whether your crew wants to hike around volcanic craters, soak in natural hot springs, or spot whales and dolphins in the wild.
The Azores also provide an eco-friendly travel option, as they’re known for sustainable tourism practices. This can be a great talking point if your team values environmental responsibility. With a mix of adventure and laid-back vibes, the Azores is a destination that will spark creativity and camaraderie among your team.
3. Iceland’s Remote Highlands: Adventure Awaits
Iceland might not be a secret anymore, but its remote highlands are a different story. For a team that’s already seen the Golden Circle, why not venture into Iceland’s rugged interior? The highlands are accessible only during the summer months and offer a wilderness experience like no other. Picture your team driving through surreal landscapes of black sand deserts, lava fields, and steaming hot springs—bonding over the sheer awe of nature’s extremes.
Consider renting a few 4x4s and organizing a self-drive tour through the highlands. It’s a hands-on way to encourage teamwork, with everyone pitching in for navigation, cooking meals at remote campsites, and simply surviving the wild together. Just imagine the stories your team will bring back!
4. Slovenia: Europe’s Hidden Outdoor Playground
Nestled between Italy, Austria, and Croatia, Slovenia is an underrated gem that offers the best of Europe without the crowds. From the charming capital of Ljubljana to the stunning Lake Bled, this small country is packed with activities that will satisfy any team’s craving for adventure and culture.
For an unforgettable experience, take your team to Triglav National Park, where they can hike, raft, and even zip-line through some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery. Slovenia’s compact size means you can pack a lot into a short trip, making it perfect for teams that need to maximize their time. Plus, the country’s growing reputation for excellent food and wine will keep your team fueled and happy.
5. Patagonia: The Ultimate Adventure Frontier
For teams willing to venture a bit farther, Patagonia in South America offers one of the most epic landscapes on the planet. Straddling the southern regions of Argentina and Chile, Patagonia is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From trekking through the rugged Torres del Paine to kayaking in glacial lakes, this is a trip for a team that’s ready to embrace the wild.
While Patagonia might require more travel time, the payoff is huge. Your team will bond over shared challenges, like battling fierce winds on a hike or working together to set up camp in remote locations. It’s an experience that will not only strengthen your team’s dynamics but also provide them with memories they’ll treasure forever.
Take Your Team Beyond the Ordinary Choosing an unconventional destination for your team’s next retreat can transform a routine trip into a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Whether it’s the rugged beauty of the Faroe Islands, the volcanic wonderland of the Azores, or the remote wilderness of Patagonia, these off-the-beaten-path ideas offer a unique way to connect and collaborate in ways that go far beyond the usual team-building activities.
So, why settle for ordinary? Take your team on an extraordinary adventure that will spark creativity, deepen bonds, and make the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
Ready to plan your next team adventure? Use Team, Assemble! today and start building a travel experience that your team will never forget.