Best Destinations To Relax And Unwind

There are times when we need a peaceful getaway to unwind and relax from our hectic lives. The type of vacation that can facilitate this process will vary depending on personal preferences, available budget and other factors. Some may want to soak up the sun at the beach and others may want to hike in the hills or along a coastline. In this article, we will explore some of the best places that are tranquil to help you find your ideal relaxing vacation. 

Kauai, Hawaii

Hawaii has many relaxing spots to enjoy, but in our opinion Kauai is something special. Kauai is known as Garden Island, it has breathtaking views at Waimea Canyon State Park, the pristine Lumahai Beach, a sunset cruise of the Napali Coast and more. One of our favorite resorts is Koloa Landing, but there’s plenty of accommodation options to explore. 

Nordfjord, Norway

This is one of the most famous Scandinavian destinations because it has breathtaking views. A visitor can enjoy a leisurely two hour cruise up the fjord to see the glaciers, mountains and sea views. During the winter months, the northern lights may be visible which is a truly spectacular sight that will stay with you for a lifetime. All of these sights are set against a backdrop of the jaw dropping fjord scenery and people that find solace outdoors will not be disappointed. 

Banff National Park, Canada

This national park is filled with spectacular scenery, clear blue lakes and places to camp and hike. One of our favorite lakes is Lake Louise. It's a relaxing place with wonderful mountain views and it’s so aesthetically pleasing that it doesn’t seem real. Outdoors types can camp at a wide variety of locations, but people that prefer a room can find good accommodation, such as the Fairmont Banff Springs hotel. 

The Blue Lagoon, Iceland

This is easily one of the most popular spots for tourists visiting Iceland throughout the year. The Blue Lagoon is a world renowned geothermal spa resort located on a lava field. Visitors can take a warm soak, even if the outdoor temperatures are freezing. Those that choose to stay at the Lagoon Suite can enjoy direct access to the spa water from their room. When the stress has been soothed away by the warm waters, there are scenic landscapes to explore across the island. 

Japanese Hot Springs

Most travel experts focus on the city life of Japan. A trip to Tokyo is exciting, but it would be hard to classify it as relaxing. But, there are plenty of options to take a single day or weekend to visit a hot spring to unwind. Much like Iceland, soaking in warm volcanic spring water can have a rejuvenating effect that many people love. One of our favorite hot spring towns is Kurokawa Onsen which can be reached via bus from Fukuoka Airport. The town has a traditional feel, you won’t find bright neon signs and a bustling atmosphere. In the nearby forest, you can find outdoor bathing in public baths or take a relaxing walk past the wooden homes along the river.

Provence, Southern France

This is one of the most beautiful areas in France which is saying something! The region has a traditional and relaxing ambience which is perfect for people that need to relax. There are stunning views to the distant alps and hills that roll away to the Mediterranean Sea on the Cote d’Azur coast. The region is covered with vineyards, pine forests, olive groves and fields of lavender that make the air fresh and fragrant. Avignon is an ancient city which should be explored and if you want more excitement head to nearby Nice or Monte Carlo.

Lake Bled, Slovenia

Lake Bled is small, it’s only 6.5 km around the entire shore, but it’s an amazing place to take a walk along the water through the forest. Located only 55 km from Ljubljana, the capital, it has to be regarded as one of the more relaxing places in Europe! At the center of the lake, you can see Bled Island which houses the Church or the Assumption of Mary. The church can be visited with a ride on a traditional flat-bottomed boat known as a “Pletna!.” The water is clean, many people swim in the lake or they use a borrowed bicycle from their small hotel to tour the shoreline. There are places to sunbathe, read a book and simply take in the sights. 

The Ionian Islands, Greece

This is where you can find Navagio Beach which is a popular place for Instagram influencers to take their pictures! This beach has the remains of the MV Panagiotis, this was a cargo ship that became stranded during a storm in 1980. The island of Paxos is a little quieter, there are few gorgeous vacation homes and resorts, but it’s very laid back. The island of Zakynthos has superb beaches and picturesque towns that are perfect for casual exploration.

Copenhagen, Denmark

This is the only city break on our list because it’s extremely laid back and relaxing. Despite being the Danish capital, you can cycle anywhere, there are communal saunas and you can even take a swim in the harbor baths. Everyone seems to be moving at their own pace, there is no rushing, it’s easy to hire a bike and just ride around. When you’re ready for food and a drink, stop at a Mikkeller brewery or other eatery. There’s plenty of choice, but don’t forget to visit the Queen Louise’s Bridge at sunset to join the locals as they watch the sun go down.

Lake Como, Italy

There are many beautiful places in Italy, but Lake Como is one of the best. This is the third largest lake in Italy, it’s a place where the rich and famous have their second homes and it’s picture perfect. The lakeside towns are gorgeous, there are cafes to sip espresso and lakeside gardens to relax. The best way to view the manor houses and surrounding countryside is from the water on a cruise round the lake.