Quiet Spring Escapes in Europe: 7 Underrated Countryside Destinations
When the buzz of city life starts to feel overwhelming, there’s nothing quite like the gentle pull of the countryside. Spring, with its mild temperatures and bursts of color, is the perfect time to retreat to rural Europe. Away from the crowds, the countryside offers an authentic and peaceful experience, ideal for nature lovers, introverts, and slow travel advocates. Think quiet walks along rolling hills, quaint villages untouched by mass tourism, and meals made with local, seasonal ingredients—spring in the European countryside invites you to slow down and savor life at a different pace.
In this guide, we’ll explore seven lesser-known countryside destinations that offer peace, beauty, and a connection to nature. These rural gems are perfect for those seeking a more intimate, less hurried escape—whether it’s hiking through olive groves in southern Spain, exploring hidden valleys in Tuscany, or soaking in the tranquility of an isolated French village. Let’s dive into these quiet rural getaways and explore the landscapes and experiences that await.
1. The Dordogne, France – A Fairytale in the French Countryside
The Dordogne region in southwestern France feels like it’s been pulled straight out of a storybook. With its limestone villages, peaceful rivers, and dense forests, the Dordogne is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing retreat with plenty of natural beauty. In spring, the region comes alive with vibrant blooms, making it an ideal time to explore its rolling hills and charming towns. Imagine wandering through medieval villages, sipping wine by a slow-moving river, and taking in the fragrance of freshly blooming flowers.
The Dordogne is a quiet haven for those seeking peace. It’s far from the bustling streets of Paris or the overrun beaches of the French Riviera. Instead, it offers a slower pace of life, where the focus is on nature, history, and authentic local experiences.
Les Eyzies-de-Tayac
Sarlat-la-Canéda
What to Do:
Hike in the Vézère Valley: The Vézère Valley is known for its prehistoric caves and lush landscapes. Spring is the perfect time to take a leisurely walk through this area, with the surrounding forests coming alive with new life. Explore the caves of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac, home to ancient rock art and fascinating archaeological sites.
Explore the Villages: Spend a day wandering through the medieval village of Sarlat-la-Canéda, with its cobbled streets, market squares, and charming little shops. Another must-visit is Domme, a stunning hilltop village that offers panoramic views of the Dordogne Valley.
Indulge in the Local Cuisine: The Dordogne is famous for its food, especially foie gras, truffles, and walnuts. Take a quiet lunch at a local bistro or a picnic by the river. Don’t forget to visit a local market—they’re typically held in charming squares where you can sample the region’s best produce.
If you’re in search of an authentic stay, choose a bed-and-breakfast or a small guesthouse in one of the quieter villages, where you can enjoy the tranquility of rural life. Opt for a place that offers homemade meals made with local ingredients—many of the guesthouses here have their own gardens where they grow their produce.
2. La Rioja, Spain – Tranquil Vineyards and Rolling Hills
In the northern part of Spain, the La Rioja wine region offers a peaceful escape for those who love nature and good wine. Known for its rolling hills and picturesque vineyards, La Rioja is often overlooked in favor of more famous Spanish destinations, but it offers the perfect mix of serenity and charm. Spring is an ideal time to visit, as the vineyards start to bloom and the landscape turns a vibrant green. With fewer tourists around, you’ll have the countryside to yourself, making it the perfect location for a quiet retreat.
La Rioja is a rural haven, offering the perfect balance of peace, culture, and nature. Whether you're hiking through its lush hills or enjoying a quiet wine tasting, this region invites you to slow down and savor the moment.
What to Do:
Vineyard Tours: Spend a day exploring the vineyards of La Rioja—many offer tours where you can walk through the grapevines, learn about the winemaking process, and taste local wines. One of the highlights of the region is the Bodegas Ysios, a modern winery set against the backdrop of the Sierra de Cantabria mountains.
Hike through the Countryside: There are plenty of hiking trails in La Rioja, especially in Sierra de Cebollera Natural Park, where you can walk through lush forests, along river valleys, and past quiet mountain streams. It’s an area rich in biodiversity and perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.
Visit the Villages: Don’t miss Haro, the region’s capital, where you can visit traditional wine cellars and explore charming cobbled streets. If you prefer something even quieter, head to the peaceful village of Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón, where you’ll find an authentic glimpse of rural life in La Rioja.
Book a stay at a rural guesthouse or small vineyard hotel for a truly immersive experience. Many of these accommodations offer wine pairings with homemade meals, making for a slow and indulgent evening under the stars.
Haro
Cuzcurrita de Río Tirón
3. Southern Tuscany, Italy – Timeless Countryside and Serene Hills
Thermal springs
Tuscany is famous for its rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, but Southern Tuscany offers a quieter and less tourist-heavy version of the region. The area is dotted with small medieval villages, beautiful hill towns, and the kind of peaceful landscapes that make you feel like you’ve stepped back in time. In spring, the landscape is a patchwork of vibrant greens, and the air is filled with the scent of wildflowers. It’s the perfect setting for slow travel, where you can savor every moment.
Southern Tuscany is perfect for travelers seeking peace and quiet, but still want to experience the cultural richness of Italy. The slower pace of life here allows you to explore at your own leisure, without the rush of typical tourist destinations.
What to Do:
Explore the Val d'Orcia: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the heart of Tuscany’s countryside. Visit the towns of Pienza, Montalcino, and Bagno Vignoni, each offering unique historical sites and panoramic views of the lush valley.
Visit the Thermal Springs: Southern Tuscany is famous for its thermal baths, which offer a soothing experience in a peaceful setting. Bagno Vignoni, with its hot springs flowing into an ancient stone pool in the center of the village, is an especially tranquil place to relax.
Wine Tasting in Montalcino: Montalcino is home to some of Italy’s finest wines, particularly Brunello di Montalcino. Take a wine tour in the surrounding vineyards, where you can taste the local wines and enjoy the view of the hills stretching out in all directions.
Stay in a charming agriturismo (farm stay) where you can enjoy home-cooked meals made with ingredients from the estate. Many of these places offer cooking classes or wine-tasting experiences, allowing you to fully embrace the local culture at your own pace.
Wine Tasting in Montalcino
4. The Azores, Portugal – Remote Islands and Unspoiled Nature
The Azores, an archipelago off the coast of Portugal, are one of Europe’s best-kept secrets. These lush islands are perfect for nature lovers and slow travelers, offering stunning landscapes without the crowds. Spring is a great time to visit, as the weather is mild, and the island’s lush green hills are in full bloom. The Azores are incredibly diverse, from volcanic craters to peaceful lakes and dramatic coastlines, providing a perfect setting for a peaceful retreat.
The Azores are ideal for travelers looking for unspoiled nature and a slower pace of life. You’ll find peaceful walks, natural hot springs, and quiet villages, all set in an incredibly scenic environment.
What to Do:
Explore São Miguel: The largest island in the Azores, São Miguel is known for its lush green landscapes, volcanic lakes, and crater-filled valleys. Visit the stunning Sete Cidades lake, which is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and deep green forests.
Hike to Lagoa do Fogo: A beautiful crater lake, Lagoa do Fogo is one of the island’s most serene spots. Hiking to this lake offers an immersive experience in nature, where you can take in the breathtaking views and enjoy the peace of the surroundings.
Relax in Furnas: Visit the village of Furnas, known for its natural hot springs and geothermal activity. Spend a day relaxing in the therapeutic waters and enjoy a traditional cozido meal (a stew cooked in the volcanic soil).
Stay in a cozy guesthouse on São Miguel or Pico, where you can experience the island’s unspoiled beauty and immerse yourself in local traditions. Take time to explore the islands on foot, as hiking is one of the best ways to connect with the landscape.
Pico Island
Cozido meal
5. The Lake District, England – Quiet Retreats in Nature’s Heart
The Lake District in northern England is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its tranquil lakes, rolling hills, and charming villages. It’s a perfect destination for slow travel, where you can spend days hiking through forests, exploring local villages, and enjoying peaceful moments by the water. Spring is one of the best times to visit, as the area blooms with wildflowers and the weather is fresh and crisp.
The Lake District offers a serene escape, with countless trails, hidden lakes, and quiet corners to explore. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, and nature is at the forefront of your experience.
What to Do:
Visit Grasmere: A charming village famous for William Wordsworth, Grasmere is perfect for a peaceful day of exploration. Take a walk around Grasmere Lake, where you’ll find quiet spots to sit and reflect.
Hike up Scafell Pike: For those who love a bit of adventure, hiking Scafell Pike, England’s highest mountain, offers spectacular views of the entire region. The hike can be challenging, but the quiet moments on the peak are well worth the effort.
Relax by Ullswater: For a quieter experience, spend time by Ullswater, one of the region’s largest lakes. Take a gentle boat ride or simply sit by the water and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Stay in a traditional inn or rural guesthouse in one of the smaller villages, like Tebay or Coniston, for a truly relaxing experience. These areas are quieter, offering a more intimate experience of the Lake District.
Ullswater
Grasmere
6. The Highlands, Scotland – Majestic Views and Remote Beauty
For those seeking a more rugged, remote retreat, the Scottish Highlands offer dramatic landscapes and peaceful isolation. With towering mountains, hidden lochs, and quaint villages, the Highlands are the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Spring is a fantastic time to visit, as the area starts to thaw and the natural beauty comes to life.
The Highlands offer breathtaking scenery and a sense of solitude that’s perfect for slow travel. The region is full of wild landscapes where you can hike, explore, and unwind at your own pace.
What to Do:
Explore Glencoe: Known for its dramatic valleys and towering peaks, Glencoe offers some of Scotland’s most beautiful scenery. Spend your time hiking through the area’s trails, taking in the rugged landscape.
Visit Loch Ness: While Loch Ness is famous for its mythical monster, it’s also a peaceful spot to visit. Take a boat ride on the lake and explore the Urquhart Castle, or simply enjoy a quiet afternoon by the water.
Hike in Cairngorms National Park: The Cairngorms offer some of the most peaceful hikes in the Highlands. Spend time walking through forests, along riverbanks, and up into the mountains for views that stretch for miles.
Stay in a remote lodge or self-catering cabin in the Highlands to fully embrace the tranquility of the area. Choose a location near Loch Awe or Fort William for a more peaceful experience.
7. The Picos de Europa, Spain – Secluded Peaks and Quiet Valleys
The Picos de Europa mountain range in northern Spain is a perfect destination for those seeking solitude in nature. This rugged, untouched region is a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and anyone who appreciates peaceful landscapes. In spring, the valleys are dotted with wildflowers, and the snow-capped peaks offer a stunning backdrop to your travels.
The Picos de Europa are off the beaten path, making them ideal for slow travelers looking to disconnect. With quiet mountain villages and plenty of hiking routes, the area offers the perfect mix of tranquility and adventure.
Lagos de Covadonga
What to Do:
Hike to Lagos de Covadonga: A beautiful glacial lake nestled among the mountains, Lagos de Covadonga is a serene spot for reflection. It’s an ideal place for hiking or simply enjoying the stunning scenery.
Explore the Village of Potes: A charming village in the heart of the mountains, Potes offers cobbled streets, traditional houses, and plenty of quiet cafés to enjoy a peaceful lunch.
Visit the Cueva de Tito Bustillo: One of the most impressive caves in Spain, Cueva de Tito Bustillo offers an incredible glimpse into prehistoric art.
Stay in a rural inn or mountain lodge in Potes for a truly authentic experience. Many accommodations offer local food and wine, making it easy to savor the flavors of the region in peace.
Village of Potes
Hiking trails everywhere!
Savor the Spring Countryside
Spring in the European countryside is a time to reconnect with nature, slow down, and take a deep breath. Whether you choose the peaceful hills of Tuscany, the tranquil vineyards of La Rioja, or the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, each of these off-the-beaten-path destinations offers a unique opportunity to enjoy the slower side of life. These quiet rural getaways allow you to explore at your own pace, savor local flavors, and truly immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of each region. Hope you got some inspo for your next quiet weekend getaway!
