These quiet holiday destinations were made for peaceful escapes
We're always on the look out for quiet holiday destinations. What could be more appealing than retreating somewhere scenic and peaceful for as much rest and relaxation as possible? And while we might usually associate quiet holiday destinations with solo travel or couples' sojourns, you can also make the most of tranquil spots in a group, or even with the whole family in tow (while it might sound unlikely, we promise it is possible).
While the allure of a quiet holiday is very much enduring, there's been an increase in interest of late. According to PoB Hotels, two in five travellers are on the lookout for hidden gems and quiet travel – the antithesis to overtourism that focuses on less explored areas. Meanwhile, Google searches for 'quiet holidays' increased by a staggering 324 per cent in a single month earlier this year, and searches for 'retreats' and lesser-known spots continue to rise.
But what are the best quiet holiday destinations to book now? You might want to stay somewhere close to home, taking in the magnificent dark skies of Northumberland, the remote beauty of the Outer Hebrides, or the glorious gardens of the Isles of Scilly.
There are also plenty of dreamy quiet holiday destinations to be found in Europe, from the bucolic beauty of the Douro Valley to the blooming flora of Madeira, via Bordeaux, Slovenia, the Swiss Alps and many more.
Matfen Hall, Northumberland
If you're looking for quiet holiday destinations that will suit the whole family, head for Matfen Hall in Northumberland. With a sumptuous spa, sprawling golf estate and seemingly endless activities for children, this is a great choice for families looking to escape busy destinations and get some invaluable relaxation while all are entertained.
Outside, adventure trails and games will give everyone a much-needed dose of fresh air, while carefully curated restaurant menus will ensure even the fussiest eaters are well catered for.
Bordeaux
Imagine finding yourself among the bucolic beauty of the vineyards of Bordeaux, nothing to hear the gentle breeze among the leaves and the soft, promising pop of a cork somewhere in the distance. All this – and much more peaceful charm – awaits on Country Living's seven-night gourmet river cruise of Bordeaux.
You'll glide along three of France's best rivers, the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde, taking in the views of the countryside from the comfort of SS Bon Voyage, a luxurious river boat. Classic French cuisine and fine wine make this a delicious break, as does the presence of top chef Tom Kerridge, who will join for part of the cruise.
Isles of Scilly
Life moves at a more peaceful pace on the ever-tranquil Isles of Scilly, but nowhere more so than in the glorious gardens found there. A dream for any fan of horticulture, the islands are home to the famous sub-tropical Tresco Abbey Garden (which is known as Kew without the glass) as well as a host of native wildlife and no end of scenic bays.
You'll imbibe all this flora and fauna on the six-day Country Living tour of the Scillies, which includes visits to Tresco as well as time to take in the coastline of Bryher and the charming harbours of St Martin's. There will also be a talk from Julian Branscombe, the Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust.
Madeira
Another must for horticulturists looking for quiet holiday destinations, Madeira is a paradise for plant lovers, particularly during the famous flower festival, which you'll get to experience on the Country Living tour of Madeira.
Orchids, bird of paradise, laurel forest and purple-blossomed jacaranda trees bloom into beautiful life on this Atlantic island, which benefits from highly fertile volcanic soil. You'll see all of this as well as exploring the charming old town of Funchal and staying in a five-star hotel during your trip here.
Northumberland
There are few better quiet travel activities than gazing up at vast skies full of stars – or even decorated with the ephemeral beauty of the Northern Lights – and feeling wonderfully insignificant. It turns out you don't have to travel a long way in order to do this – in fact, Northumberland, specifically its Dark Sky Park, is one of the best places in the world to enjoy dazzling constellations, planets and more.
Country Living Holidays' three-day tour offers the added benefit of taking in the magnificent sights in the company of expert astronomer, Richard Darn. You'll visit two observatories, as well as Hadrian's Wall.
Morocco
Morocco's striking M'Goun Valley and the timeless site of Ait Benhaddou have to be some of most peaceful, woefully under-explored places on earth. If you're seeking a quiet holiday destination, you'll definitely want to consider these more rural, remote parts of Morocco – and their proximity to Marrakech means you can also get a dose of vibrant culture after serenity.
You can explore this side of Morocco rarely captured in guidebooks on Country Living's eight-day women-only tour, which passes through remote villages and includes time with local Amazigh families, allowing for the most authentic experience possible.
Slovenia
From the placid beauty of Lake Bled to the quaint cobbled streets of the capital, Ljubljana, Slovenia offers a fresh take on quiet holiday destinations. You might well have overlooked this central European country, but it only takes one visit to these culturally rich, dramatically beautiful and downright delicious lands to be convinced.
Take a five-night foodie trip to Slovenia with Country Living and you'll likely find yourself wanting to return. Go truffle hunting, taste wines in the Vipava Valley and sip craft beer in Kamnik for an authentic taste of the country, while also exploring must-sees like Lake Bled, the Skocjan caves and Triglav National Park.
Douro Valley, Portugal
Carpeted in terraced vineyards and home to undiscovered villages, Portugal's Douro Valley is a quiet holiday destination on the up – but still free from crowds. Wine lovers will be in heaven during a trip here, with plenty of vineyards and quintas to frequent and delicious wine and port to sample – all set against the most beautiful of backdrops, of course.
The Country Living Douro River cruise is the perfect way to explore this hidden gem of a destination. It begins in Porto, Portugal's 'second city', before cruising along the Alto Douro with stops at Régua, Pinhão and many more.
Normany and the Channel Islands
Imagine stepping aboard a stylish ship in Southampton, making a stop at St. Malo, the final resting place of the seafarer Jacques Cartier, marvelling at the timeless sight of tidal island Mont St Michel, soaking up the peace of the Channel Islands then sailing up the Seine to Rouen. Here, you could take a day trip to Paris, the Cathédrale Notre-Dame (famously painted by Monet), or simply indulge in heavenly cheese, wine and Calvados brandy.
This is exactly what's on offer from the Good Housekeeping six-day tour of Normandy and the Channel Islands. When it comes to quiet – and delicious, historic and peaceful – holiday destinations, this cruise ticks all the boxes.
Northern Italy and the Swiss Alps
The sound of silence is all well and good, but the sounds of fresh snowflakes falling lightly in the bracing heights of the Swiss Alps is even better. Stunning scenery, warming cuisine and undeniably invigorating fresh air await in the pristine regions of northern Italy and the Swiss Alps – which is exactly what you'll explore during Country Living's eight-day tour.
Take a ride on the Bernina and Glacier Express trains, which are surely two of the most scenic routes in the world, as well as taking in views of the Matterhorn, visiting swish Swiss ski resorts and cruising along on Lake Maggiore.
Hebrides
Few destinations could rival the Hebrides for wild, rugged beauty, intriguing natural wonders and, above all, peace, seclusion and quiet. Country Living's Hebridean tour involves hopping around 10 of these spectacular islands, taking ferry trips across scenic waters, taking in historic monuments and relaxing with views of idyllic beaches and notable wildlife.
Expect to see the Standing Stones of Callanish, the Black Houses at Gearrannan, and incredible beaches at Scarista, Horgabost, Borve and Luskentyre. Travel journalist and broadcaster Monty Hall will also be there, joining you to explore the islands of Eriskay and Barra.
Oxfordshire
Country walks, cosy pubs, picturesque villages: Oxfordshire is full of charm and, outside high season, the perfect place to go for a quiet staycation. For the ultimate indulgence, check into Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel, a 10-minute walk from the pretty village of Great Milton and 30 minutes from the dreaming spires of Oxford.
Located within an idyllic manor house, this quintessentially English stay is the creation of two Michelin-starred French chef, Raymond Blanc – so, as you can imagine, the food is first-class. Country Living's overnight offer, you'll get the very best of this, with a welcome glass of champagne, a seven-course dinner with coffee and petits fours, plus much more.
Cornwall
A stay in a shepherd's hut is certain to bring a moment of peace and quiet, especially if the hut is a luxurious one located in one of the most restful counties of all: Cornwall. Rick Stein's elegantly appointed shepherd's huts are located on the peaceful grounds of the chef's pub, The Cornish Arms, near Padstow.
They're ideally positioned for long, lazy days in, as well as scenic coastal walks along the coast (with beautiful Harlyn and Constantine Bays nearby). With Country Living, you'll also get a three-course meal for two on one night at The Cornish Arms, cod and chips at Stein's Fish and Chips in Padstow, breakfast on both mornings, and a crisp bottle of white wine waiting for you upon arrival.
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