Embarking on a culinary adventure is more than just a quest for delicious flavors; it’s a journey into the heart and soul of a culture. From a royal picnic in Austria to alpine dining in New Zealand, the world is filled with gastronomic experiences that tantalise the taste buds and nourish the soul. We’ve gleaned some of the most enticing and unforgettable bucket list culinary experiences that will leave you craving for more.

Picnic Like Royalty in Austria

For the unconventional and adventurous pleasure seekers, this luxury ski resort in Lech allows guests to experience picnics like no other. The Kristiana Lech Hotel, once frequented by the late Princess Diana, is one of our top favorite picks. Take in the spectacular views of the sunrise while indulging in a specially curated picnic amidst the snow-capped Arlberg mountains with Arabian-style rugs, soft fluffy pillows, and the warm glow of a campfire. Don’t forget to sip on your champagne and graze on some delicious Austrian snacks while you’re at it!

For more information on Kristiana Lech, visit the website here. 

Dine Below Sea Level in Norway

This culinary experience is definitely one that should not be missed. Located in the icy waters of the North Atlantic Ocean in Lindenes, Under allows guests to dine five meters deep into the ocean, offering a one-of-a-kind dining experience. The restaurant itself is a sight to behold with its half-submerged structure, designed with the consideration of aquatic wildlife surrounding its unique exterior. It was built to withstand pressure and shock from the rugged sea conditions while working as an artificial reef, making it home to limpets and kelp. If you’re looking for an unpredictable gastronomical experience where the sea determines what ends up on your plate, we promise that you will leave Under with admiration and curiosity of the ocean.

For more information on Under, visit the website here.

Feast with Wildlife in the Australian Outback

Jamala Wildlife Lodge is one of the most unique and luxurious accommodations located within the National Zoo and Aquarium in Canberra, Australia. What sets Jamala Wildlife Lodge apart is its immersive wildlife experience, allowing guests to stay in close proximity to various exotic animals like giraffes, lions, cheetahs, lemurs, and many more. One of the notable aspects while dining there is that guests may enjoy their meals in the company of the wildlife inhabiting the lodge – offering wildlife interaction with a lavish four-course gourmet dinner, providing a truly unforgettable experience for all visitors.

For more information on Jamala Wildlife Lodge, visit the website here.

Sip on Bubbly While on a Champagne Tour in France

Honored with the prestigious World’s Best Awards in 2024, the Royal Champagne Hotel stands as an essential destination in the realm of gastronomy. Le Bellevue, within the hotel, is a culinary gem adorned with a breathtaking presentation of a thousand crystal pendants that come alive with illuminated droplets of light as night descends. This exquisite dining venue not only boasts an enchanting ambiance but also invites guests to savor a diverse array of flavors from the Champagne region, highlighting the richness of local and seasonal ingredients. The menu features delectable creations carefully paired with the finest champagne selections, ensuring an unforgettable dining experience, whether it’s a leisurely lunch or an intimate dinner. The Royal Champagne Hotel captures the essence of culinary excellence, making it a must-visit for those seeking a remarkable journey through the world of fine dining.

For more information on Royal Champagne Hotel, visit the website here.

Experience Alpine Dining in New Zealand

Looking for somewhere quiet, private and sophisticated? Look no further – The Rees puts luxe on the lake in Queenstown, making it an obvious choice for celebrities and ritzy vacationers. This independent hotel prides themselves on excellent service and accommodations with awe-inspiring views. Don’t forget to pay a visit to The Bordeau Lounge Bar while you’re there as it overlooks the spectacular view of Lake Wakatipu and the breathtaking panoramic alpine view. The Rees is definitely a bucket-list-worthy dining experience.

For more information on The Rees, visit the website here.

Enjoy Cocktails Made with 10,000-Year-Old Ice in Antarctica

Believe us when we say there will not be a day trip more extraordinary than this one – the journey to Antarctica with White Desert World, that has won the well-deserving title of World Travel Award winner. How surreal would it be to be zooming across the mighty Southern Ocean on a polar plane, clinking champagne glasses in an ice bar and warming off in the comfort of a sophisticated, luxurious communal living space with loved ones? And when it’s time to work the stomach, the finest meals are flown in from South Africa to give travelers the most incredible gastronomic experience, therefore making Antarctica a culinary experience like no other.

For more information on White Desert World, visit the website here.