If you’re someone who feels most at peace surrounded by trees, mountains, or the sound of waves crashing on the shore, then you know that a good holiday doesn’t need all the bells and whistles. It just needs some fresh air and a decent view. Whether you’ve got a weekend or a full two weeks off, there are loads of nature-filled trips that’ll leave you feeling refreshed and maybe a little sun-kissed too.
Head to a national park
You really can’t go wrong with a national park. They’re perfect for walking, hiking, camping, and even just sitting quietly while the world does its thing around you. Whether it’s the Lake District, Snowdonia, or somewhere further afield like Yosemite or Banff, these spots give you that real “middle of nowhere” feeling without needing to go totally off-grid. Pack some sturdy boots, a good waterproof, and a proper camera. You’ll want to remember this one.
Try a coastal escape
If mountains aren’t your thing, the coast might be calling. There’s something about the sea that instantly slows everything down. You don’t have to do much, either. Long walks along a clifftop path, fish and chips by the harbour, and evenings with the sound of the tide just doing its thing. Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, Pembrokeshire, or even Norfolk can be absolutely stunning, especially if you catch the sunrise or sunset.
Stay on the road
For those who like to explore a few places in one go, staying at an RV park can be a brilliant option. You’ve got your bed, your kitchen, and your essentials all in one place. That freedom to drive somewhere new each day means you can chase the sun, the mountains, or whatever scenery suits your mood. Just make sure to book in advance during peak times, as some of the more popular spots fill up fast. And don’t forget to double check what facilities they offer – not all parks are the same.
Go forest bathing
This one’s not as strange as it sounds. Forest bathing is basically just spending quiet time in the woods, switching off your phone and letting nature do its thing. It’s simple, it’s cheap, and honestly, it works. You don’t need a fancy cabin or anything. Just a good woodland walk and time to pause. Somewhere like the New Forest or Epping Forest can be perfect for this if you’re in the UK.
Camp under the stars
If you haven’t tried wild camping (where it’s allowed), it’s something special. There’s nothing quite like falling asleep under the stars with the sounds of nature all around you. Just be sure to check the local rules and always leave the place how you found it. If wild camping feels a bit much, there are plenty of peaceful campsites with great facilities that still give you that close-to-nature feel without going full Bear Grylls.
Explore a nature reserve
Nature reserves are often overlooked, but they’re a haven for wildlife and usually much quieter than bigger tourist spots. Perfect for birdwatching, photography, or just wandering along winding trails with nothing but rustling leaves and the occasional fox for company. Many also have visitor centres with info on the local ecosystem, so you can learn as you go.
Stay on a farm
For something a bit different, consider a farm stay. You’ll wake up to the sounds of animals instead of traffic, and you might even get the chance to help feed them or collect eggs. It’s a wholesome, slow-paced escape that’s especially great if you want to reconnect with the land – or introduce kids to a more rural way of life.
Try a mountain retreat
There’s something powerful about spending time high up in the hills. Whether it’s a simple log cabin or a remote bothy, a mountain retreat offers stillness and jaw-dropping views. Bonus points if you wake up early to catch the mist rolling through the valley with a hot cup of tea in hand.
Paddle through nature
If you enjoy being on the water, why not try canoeing or kayaking through scenic rivers or lakes? Places like the Wye Valley or Loch Lomond are perfect for gentle paddles surrounded by trees, cliffs, or even the occasional waterfall. It’s peaceful, immersive, and gives you a new perspective on the landscape.
Book an eco-lodge in the wilderness
For a more comfortable kind of “back to nature,” eco-lodges blend sustainability with serenity. Tucked away in forests, near lakes, or at the edge of national parks, these stays let you enjoy the outdoors without giving up too many comforts. Many are off-grid, solar-powered, and run by people who truly care about the environment.
Whatever you go for, you really don’t need to spend loads or travel far. The best nature breaks are the simple ones. Just find your spot, breathe it in, and enjoy the quiet.
