Here at Mindful Trails, we’re always on the lookout for kindred projects travel organisations that align with our values: slower journeys, meaningful connections, and low-impact adventures that allow us to really be present in the places we visit.
This list is a growing collection of projects, travel companies and platforms we admire for their commitment to thoughtful, place-based travel. We’re not affiliated with any of them (unless stated), just inspired by what they offer.
Travel Companies
Byway Travel
Type: Flight-free travel planning platform
Why we like them: Byway helps you book holidays by train, boat, and bus across Europe. They design custom itineraries that avoid airports entirely and prioritise scenic routes and lesser-known stops. They even plant trees for every trip.
‘Travel is about the journey, not just the destination. Byway gets that.’
Responsible Travel
Type: Marketplace for ethical holidays and tours
Why we like them: With a strong focus on sustainability, community, and small-group experiences, Responsible Travel curates tours that balance discovery with care for people and planet.
‘They ask the hard questions so travellers don’t have to.’
Canopy & Stars
Type: Unique glamping and off-grid accommodation across the UK and Europe
Why we like them: They offer beautiful stays in treehouses, cabins, yurts, and more—many in wild or secluded locations, ideal for disconnecting and slowing down.
“Perfect for tech-free weekends, forest bathing, or letting kids run barefoot.”
Kindred Projects
Slow Ways
Type: National network of walking routes between towns and cities in the UK
Why we like them: Slow Ways encourages walking as a mode of connection and rediscovery. The routes are crowd-sourced and promote community engagement with local landscapes.
“A brilliant way to reimagine the UK through your feet.”
We love their mission and recently set up a local crowdfunding page in support of one of their campaigns. While we’ve kept the fundraising separate from Mindful Trails, we’ve shared their national campaign via our Instagram to help amplify their reach. Click here to support.
The Ambling Path
We love discovering others who walk with similar values, and The Ambling Path is just that. A beautifully crafted collection of gentle routes and reflections across Southern England.
With a focus on slow exploration, accessible walking guides, and thoughtful commentary, it’s a kindred resource for anyone looking to tread more lightly and meaningfully. Their walks often pass through lesser-known places, blending nature, heritage, and observation.
If you enjoy what we share here on Mindful Trails, we think you’ll find The Ambling Path a peaceful and inspiring companion.
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- Grid Square 3: Still Waters and Secret SetsI began my walk at a large car park, following a wide trail skirting a cross-country horse field, where jumps lay scattered across the open space. The trail eventually led… Read more: Grid Square 3: Still Waters and Secret Sets
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Mindful Trails 