Our favourite Countryside Escapes in Europe
Let’s be honest. Life can be a bit overwhelming sometimes, right? The endless emails, meetings, and to-do lists that seem to pile up. What if I told you there’s a way to hit pause on all of that and lose yourself in nature, good food, and peaceful surroundings? It’s time for a countryside retreat. Picture yourself sipping wine in Tuscany, hiking through the misty mountains of the Scottish Highlands, or walking along the beautiful coast of Portugal. Whether you're craving some much-needed relaxation or simply want to recharge with a bit of adventure, these countryside retreats in Europe offer a perfect blend of serenity and indulgence.
Here’s the thing—countryside retreats are a chance to really slow down. No distractions. Just you, the fresh air, and the sound of nature. If you’re someone who’s all about experiential travel, these spots are perfect for you. They’re all about connecting with local food, being surrounded by stunning landscapes, and embracing a slower pace of life—and let’s be real, who doesn’t need that sometimes?
1. Tuscany, Italy: The Dreamy Escape You’ve Been Looking For
Okay, let’s start with Tuscany—because who hasn’t daydreamed about sipping wine with rolling hills and vineyards as your backdrop? The charming villages and farm-to-table food here are perfect for anyone who wants to unwind, eat well, and get lost in the beauty of nature.
Imagine waking up in a cozy Tuscan villa, stepping outside, and breathing in the fresh morning air as you look out over vineyards that seem to go on forever. Spend your days hiking through the Chianti hills or wandering through quaint medieval towns like San Gimignano. And the food? Let’s just say you’ll never want to leave the local trattorias. Think handmade pasta, olive oil straight from the farm, and of course, Chianti wine to wash it all down.
Why You’ll Love It: Tuscany is the ultimate place to recharge. If you’ve been running on empty, the combination of fresh air, amazing food, and breathtaking views will make you feel like you’ve hit a reset button for your soul.
2. The Scottish Highlands: Nature at Its Wildest
If you’ve ever wanted to escape the crowds and lose yourself in untouched beauty, the Scottish Highlands is calling your name. Think wide-open spaces, fresh mountain air, and a chance to hike through some of the most ruggedly beautiful landscapes in Europe. And honestly? The solitude here is something special. You’ll find it hard not to feel at peace as you explore this area.
Get ready for a nature-packed adventure. Whether you’re hiking up Ben Nevis or exploring the picturesque Loch Ness, there’s plenty to discover in the Highlands. After a long day of hiking, head back to your cozy cottage or a traditional Scottish inn, where you can enjoy hearty Scottish dishes like haggis or fresh salmon.
Why You’ll Love It: The Highlands offer that perfect combination of peace and adventure. If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of solitude with your hiking, mixed with delicious comfort food by a warm fire, this place is for you.
3. Algarve, Portugal: Sun, Sea, and Serenity
Looking for a little sunshine along with your nature getaway? Algarve, in southern Portugal, is a must-visit. With its golden beaches, rugged cliffs, and traditional fishing villages, it’s a stunning location for anyone who loves coastal beauty and unhurried days spent exploring.
The beauty of Algarve is in its simplicity. You can hike along the coastal trails, exploring hidden coves and picturesque cliffs, then end your day with a relaxing dinner at a seaside restaurant serving up fresh seafood. It’s a place to slow down, enjoy the views, and really appreciate the freshness of the sea.
Why You’ll Love It: If you're someone who enjoys slow travel, unbeaten paths, and fresh seafood, then Algarve is your ideal spot. It’s perfect for those who need a mix of outdoor adventure, serene beaches, and just good food.
4. The Lake District, UK: A Relaxing Nature Escape
Ever wanted to explore the wild beauty of the UK’s countryside? The Lake District is a perfect place to do that, with mountain hikes, lush valleys, and peaceful lakesides that seem like they’ve been pulled straight out of a painting.
This is a place where you can spend your days hiking the trails around Lake Windermere, or perhaps go for a quaint boat ride before enjoying a hearty pub lunch. The food here is all about locally sourced ingredients, whether it’s a warm pie, fresh fish, or farmhouse cheeses—everything tastes a little better when enjoyed by a lake.
Why You’ll Love It: The Lake District offers a combination of outdoor adventure and cozy, relaxing vibes. If you're the type who wants to unwind, take a stroll around picturesque villages, and indulge in simple yet satisfying food, this will feel like the perfect reset.
5. Provence, France: Lavender Fields and Local Flavors
If calm, culture, and amazing food are what you’re after, then Provence in southern France is calling your name. From the charming lavender fields to the local markets, everything about this place is designed to slow you down and get you to savor every moment—and every bite.
Provence is perfect for food lovers. Spend your days exploring local markets, picking up fresh cheeses, herbs, and olives to enjoy later. Stay at a rustic villa and dine on local Mediterranean food, like ratatouille or bouillabaisse, surrounded by the scent of lavender and olive groves.
Why You’ll Love It: If you're into slow food, local culture, and a healthy dose of relaxation, then Provence has it all. It’s the kind of place where every meal feels like a celebration of the region’s flavors.
Countryside Escapes That Refresh Your Soul
It’s time to leave the noise of the city behind and slow down in some of Europe’s most stunning countryside locations. Whether you’re wandering through Tuscany’s vineyards, hiking the Scottish Highlands, or savoring fresh seafood by the coast in Algarve, these countryside escapes are perfect for anyone wanting to reconnect with nature, local food, and the art of relaxation.
