Life can be hectic, and it can feel impossible to escape the hustle and bustle, feeling like you’re always switched on and never have time to switch off. Even when you go on vacation, it’s hard to escape the pings of phones and the stress of daily life. Being away doesn’t always mean finding tranquility or enjoying a remote landscape, but you can have the best of both worlds. You can escape to a stunning, peaceful change of scenery that feels removed from the buzz of the world, while all of this is still within reach. Imagine finally relaxing on a getaway and not falling into the trap of constantly looking at a screen and filling your days with thoughts of your daily life. You could truly get rid of the mental clutter and come back feeling refreshed. Luckily, there are destinations across the globe, both near and far, that offer just this! A chance to take a proper breather, slow your life down for a little while, and enjoy a complete escape.
You don’t always need to travel halfway around the world to find peace, but sometimes, stepping beyond the borders of your everyday life is exactly what it takes to reset. From the misty hills of the UK to sun-soaked islands across the globe, here are some destinations that truly feel like a world away.
Tranquility in Ubud, Bali
Nestled away in the gorgeous heart of Bali, Ubud is a haven to escape to for the ultimate relaxing getaway. It is the perfect place for those who need a wellness break to focus on their well-being and those who are looking to immerse themselves in a different culture. You can take a much-needed breather in the picturesque landscapes that surround you everywhere in this beautiful destination. You can marvel at the intricate ancient temples, be astounded by the rice terraces, and connect to nature in the tropical forests. This town provides calm energy for a refreshing trip away from daily life, making you feel a world away. You can wake to birdsong every morning, take a stroll through the morning mist and enjoy a spot of yoga, or even be present in the simplest of activities, such as enjoying a quiet cup of Balinese coffee while soaking up the extraordinary views of the jungle.
Even though this quiet town is growing in popularity, Ubud still manages to provide a deeply restorative experience. This is especially the case if you explore a little out of the main town to go to one of its serene wellness retreats. It’s a place where time slows down, and the outside world melts away into the hum of cicadas and the gentle rustle of palm leaves.
Countryside Calm in Leicestershire, England
An overshadowed destination that often gets overlooked is the beautiful countryside of England’s Leicestershire. This destination is a peaceful, quiet surprise for those that are wanting something slow-paced and utterly relaxing. England is known for its vast countryside and luscious green rolling hills, and Leicestershire is packed full of picturesque views and incredible wildlife. It’s a place where golden fields stretch toward the horizon and winding village lanes encourage you to wander without purpose. You can get lost in the beauty of the countryside and uncover stunning, historic places- all while connecting to nature and refreshing your mind.
Spending only a few days here can feel like pressing pause on your life. You might explore Bradgate Park or relax beside Rutland Water, where the breeze carries the scent of wildflowers. For those who find themselves enchanted by the area, there are even charming lodges for sale in Leicestershire. These offer you the opportunity to constantly return to the serenity of this nature-filled environment, meaning every getaway can be just as refreshing and unwinding as the first one.
Iceland’s Otherworldly Wilderness
There are few places on Earth that feel as strikingly different as Iceland. Visiting many parts of this outstanding country can feel like you’ve left Earth altogether and landed right on a unique world that’s truly out of this world. There are quirky, magnificent black sand beaches, inspiring geothermal springs, and breathtaking towering waterfalls. Wherever you uncover, you can feel as though you’ve stepped right into an imaginative painting or a fairytale. There are many magical landscapes to explore that will leave you speechless and fully immersed in your surroundings, forgetting about your typical day-to-day life. Taking a drive along the southern coast can feel like a whirlwind of fun, magic, and surprises because it can take you from glaciers all the way to volcanoes in just one day!
And yet, the remoteness is part of its magic. Whether you’re soaking in a natural hot spring under the midnight sun or watching the northern lights dance across the winter sky, Iceland offers that rare sense of awe that comes from standing in landscapes that haven’t changed in thousands of years.
Isle of Skye, Scotland
If you’re searching for that feeling of magic and wonder, then the Isle of Skye in Scotland is a wonderful place to explore and truly escape it all. This destination provides glorious, mystical landscapes that can help you relax and feel rejuvenated. With incredible, misty mountains and jaw-dropping rugged coasts, you can feel worlds away from your typical life. There is a lot of history and nature to explore in this secluded paradise that is within easy reach of the mainland. You can get lost in wondrous landscapes and utterly beautiful wildlife. It is the perfect place to take unwinding walks and escape the mental clutter you face every day. You can explore fairly pools, ancient castles, and take on scenic hikes to uncover every mystery of this stunning island.
The Stillness of the Canadian Rockies
The Canadian Rockies can feel like a dream if you’re looking to connect to nature and have some solitude. It is a vast, wild, and majestic landscape that can transport you into a whole different world. There are gorgeous, crystal-clear lakes, impressive towering pine forests, and glistening, snowy mountain peaks that serve as the ultimate peaceful backdrop. You can head to places like Banff and Jasper National Parks to transport you right into a postcard that is full of serenity.
Even the popular areas have quieter corners for you to enjoy a tranquil getaway. You can take a canoe out on Moraine Lake at sunrise or follow a forest trail until all you hear are your own footsteps and birds in the distance. These mountains don’t just impress; they heal.
Matera, Italy
An otherworldly destination for a peaceful vacation is Matera, Italy. Unlike other destinations that provide serenity through nature, Matera offers many historical buildings and wonders that can make you forget everything at home. It is known for its impressive ancient caves and jaw-dropping stone dwellings that feel far away from home. This stunning destination can be reached by train or bus from Bari and is a hidden gem that gives you a unique charm for a peaceful getaway.
You can truly get lost in the moment when you wander through the historical caves that feel magical. You can also visit the picturesque stone churches and take a breather in one of the many cozy cafes.
Finding Escape in Every Corner
What all of these destinations share isn’t just natural beauty, it’s atmosphere. They offer the rare gift of being able to disconnect, to reflect, and to simply live in the moment. In the end, it’s not just about where you go, it’s about how it makes you feel that truly makes an escape out of this world.
