Having a change of pace and scenery, a change to unplug and explore, and a break from normal life and responsibilities can be a great way to reset after a difficult month or year. Taking a break and exploring something new in some relaxing destinations can give us the boost we need to keep going, or help us relax and refresh. Who hasn’t experienced coming back from a vacation totally refreshed and ready to tackle whatever life throws at us next?
With that said, we’re rounding up some of our favorite relaxing destinations to visit for when you just need a break, a chance to reset, or some time to do some serious self-care. Here’s our favorites.
1. Bali
Maybe the most well-known and the best relaxing destination in the world is Bali. This tranquil island in Indonesia is known for being totally peaceful, with a welcoming culture that will make you feel at home. It’s perfect for soul-searching, a yoga and meditation retreat or just a week of self-care. Whether you decide to try yoga, meditation, art, surfing or just want to spend some time in nature, Bali has plenty to offer you. The low-key and laid-back pace of life in Bali is the perfect way to unplug from your normal life and refresh your mind and body.
2. Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island—the quiet, Eastern Canadian island near Maine—is the perfect summer getaway for when you want some peace and quiet. Known for its windswept and red-sand beaches, lighthouses and delicious seafood, this peaceful island getaway is perfect for quiet walks along the beach or in the nature surrounds, rainy mornings in a cozy cabin or just some time to unplug from the chaos and frantic pace of normal life. Prince Edward Island and the nearby Nova Scotia are also great places for a summer road trip!
3. Vienna, Austria
If you need a trip that’ll help you recharge and reset, but don’t want to get totally off the grid, Vienna is a great place to go. This Austrian city holds plenty of European charm, art and culture. And you won’t see the bustle of a big city like Paris or Rome. Come for the history, culture and food; stay for the cozy coffee shops, quiet museums and cobblestone streets where you can wander to your heart’s content. Break out of your everyday routines and unwind in one of Europe’s dreamiest (and most underrated) cities.
4. Takayama, Japan
This quiet village in Japan is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature—and yourself. Commonly called Hida-Takayama, this well-preserved ancient village is a great place to experience some of Japan’s ancient culture, history and heritage, while also unwinding and connecting with nature. Located in a mountainous region, this rural village is home to both spring and autumn festivals, plenty of hiking trails, nearby natural hot springs and more. All of these are great ways to disconnect from hectic city life and connect with nature and yourself. Once you visit, it’ll be easy to see why Takayama is considered one of the best destinations to relax!
5. Norway
The Scandinavian countries are well known for minimalist style, amazing landscapes, and a very safe culture. Who wouldn’t want to visit any of them, really? Among the top of our list for relaxing destinations though, is Norway, where you can experience so much and still come home rested and feeling serene. Depending on where in the country you head to, you might visit huge fjords, see stunning northern lights, or explore within the city. You won’t find natural hot springs in Norway (no volcanic activity here), but for a similar experience try KOK in Oslo. They are floating saunas – like literally a sauna built on a float raft so that you can sweat in the sauna and then jump into for a cold dip. Private saunas are less than $15/person and fit 10 people – so you’re whole crew can reap in those health benefits.
6. Malta
Malta is often overlooked as an island destination in Europe while tourists flock to Croatia, Greece, Ibiza and Sicily. However, Malta offers warm summer weather (nearly year-round!), incredible scuba diving and beaches, ancient history, temples and UNESCO World Heritage sites and more. In short, there’s plenty to do! The stunning scenery and sunny climate make it the perfect place to unwind and experience European culture and history in a relaxing setting. If you feel like a big dose of Vitamin D and some delicious food will do you good—Malta’s a great place to go without having to fight with swarms of tourists.
7. Joshua Tree National Park, California
Don’t think you have to travel halfway across the world to give yourself a chance to unwind and relax. One of the most relaxing destinations in the US is Joshua Tree National Park. It’s home to over 1,200 square miles of desert landscape, rock formations, and insanely beautiful views. The scenery here alone will be enough to refresh you! You will find the most peace and quiet if you visit during off-peak time. So basically just avoid springtime, particularly March and April. There are miles of hiking trails, or opt for a scenic drive on Park Boulevard. Stop by a wellness spa in the area for some traditional relaxation, or book accommodations to spend the night (there’s everything from campsites to hotels) for an overnight meditative experience. Your trip is sure to give you the perfect chance to unplug and unwind.
8. The Maldives
For a picture-perfect retreat where you can completely forget about the worries of your real life and just totally relax and unwind, there’s no better place than the Maldives. These white-sand islands are known for their tranquil beaches, overwater bungalows, and wellness resorts. If you want to unplug and pamper yourself, the Maldives are a great destination! Even if endless spa days aren’t really your thing, who wouldn’t feel better after a week of sunshine and relaxation on some of the most beautiful beaches in the world?
9. Reykjavik, Iceland
If you want to unwind with a side of adventure, Reykjavik is one of the best relaxing destinations in the world. In Reykjavik, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for self-care and relaxation: geothermal pools, wellness centers with spas and saunas, public baths and hot tubs and of course, the famed Blue Lagoon. The geothermal seawater of the Blue Lagoon is naturally rich in silica, algae, and minerals, making the hot springs there healing and rejuvenating. Unplug and unwind in nature by exploring some of Iceland’s iconic waterfalls and hiking. After all that, you’ll want to end your day with some hot springs relaxation. How could you not feel refreshed after a week spent here?
10. Sedona, Arizona
Long known as a mecca for wellness, yoga and spirituality, Sedona is a great place to go to unwind and connect with yourself and nature—whether or not you stay at one of the many wellness retreats and resorts. The numerous spas around town give you plenty of options for relaxing. There’s also plenty of (free) options to relax outdoors in nature as well. With warm weather year-round, any time of year is perfect for a wellness retreat to Sedona. The amazing views and calm, down-to-earth vibes throughout Sedona will be just what you need to reset.
11. Greek Islands
Does relaxing destination mean warm sun, white sand, and blue waters for you? Preferably without the crowds. While any of the Greek Islands are excellent vacation destinations – opt for some of the less touristy islands for more of that peace and quiet vibe. Islands like Ithaca and Lemnos will give you all the Greek Islands charm you need. And you’ll see significantly less tourists than Santorini, Crete, or Mykonos. This will let you get in more you time, and also see more of the local culture (vs tourist culture).
So where are you off to next? Snag a cheap flight to one of these relaxing destinations and be one your way to some peace and serenity.
