Loneliness is on the rise—but adventure might just be the antidote.
In an era of endless screen time, remote work, and digital interactions, more and more people are searching for real connections—beyond likes and comments, beyond the small talk of daily life.
And while adventure might not be the first solution that comes to mind, the truth is, it’s one of the best ways to find your people.
At Discover Adventure, we’ve seen it firsthand: people show up solo and leave with lifelong friends. Teams form on the trails, riders push each other through the toughest stretches, and strangers become family before they even reach the finish line.
💬 “I came solo, but I never felt alone.” – It’s something we hear all the time.
The Loneliness Pandemic: A Growing Challenge
Loneliness has become a global public health concern. In the UK, studies show that 1 in 3 adults experiences feelings of loneliness. Meanwhile, in the US, the Surgeon General has called loneliness an “epidemic,” warning that it can have health effects equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. While digital connection has never been easier, genuine, in-person connection is harder to come by—and people are feeling the impact.
We know that adventure offers a powerful remedy. Shared experiences provide a natural way to build connections, fostering deep friendships and a sense of belonging. When you’re on a challenge—whether trekking, cycling, or taking on a weekend adventure—you’re never alone. Conversations flow on the trails, support is always there when you need it, and by the time you cross the finish line, you’ve not only conquered a challenge—you’ve found your people.
The Benefits of Nature-Based Activities
Engaging in outdoor activities is important for physical and mental well-being. Studies have shown that nature-based activities, such as outdoor exercise, effectively improve mental health in adults.
What’s more, participation in social and group physical activity is shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.
The Rise of Outdoor Communities
We’ve been doing this for over 30 years, but over the past few years, something amazing has happened—people have increasingly found new ways to connect outdoors.
🚴♂️ Cycling clubs hitting the roads on weekends
🏃♀️ Run crews taking over city streets
🏔️ Walking and hiking groups tackling new trails
And these communities don’t just exist for the sport—they exist for the people. It’s about that shared experience, the post-run coffee, the group chat full of encouragement (and a little friendly competition). It’s about having a team, even if you’re not in a race.
It’s no surprise that we’re now seeing more and more of these groups taking on challenges together—whether it’s a cycling club tackling Land’s End to John O’Groats, or a group of colleagues swapping their morning jogs for a trek to Everest Base Camp.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’ve found your people in a local club or group, why not take on a bigger adventure together?
With our Bring a Friend offer running this February, now is the perfect time to round up your adventure crew and plan your next challenge. Because the only thing better than achieving something incredible? Doing it alongside the people who push you forward.
Get £100 off any overseas challenge booked in February 2025 (for 2025 departures) when you bring a friend*.
And here’s the best part—you can:
✅ Keep it for yourself
✅ Split it with your friend
✅ Gift it to them
Call or email us once you have booked to redeem your discount.
📅 Offer ends February 28th – Don’t miss out!
*Terms and Conditions:
– Limited to one discount per person
– Applicable on our Open Challenges only
– Overseas trips only (UK excluded)
– Applicable for 2025 departures only
– Can be used in conjunction with existing DA Lifetime Discount
– Discount is for Tour Cost only, cannot be applied to registration fee
– Not valid on fundraising payment options
– Room share requests & team name will qualify bookings
– Discount will be applied when two bookings are complete, and both registration fees have been paid.
