Disconnecting And Relaxing: My Favorite Nature Trips So Far

Scrolling on your phone, the news, the internet, it can be hard to disconnect and forget about the commotion of what’s going on in today’s world, especially with social media. And even if you allow yourself a day or hours without your phone, it can still be stifling to deal with all the distractions that surround us.

My solution: go on a nature trip and enjoy your environment without the noise and distractions of your phone (except for taking pictures, that I allow), laptop or TV.

So, without further ado, here are my favorite nature trips (so far) to relax and forget your worries and stress, at least for a while.

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1. Hiking in Durmitor National Park, Montenegro

Montenegro is one of those countries I just pretty much went to on a whim, with no big plans or ideas of what to expect when I got there. It was just a time when I needed a break, and also because I missed hiking and wanted to go offline for a while.

And since I was looking for something close by (I was in France) and budget-friendly in terms of flight costs, I chose Montenegro. But one thing’s for sure, I’d do it again.

The country, with its breathtaking landscapes, between sea and mountains, with its crystal-clear lakes, as well as friendly locals, quickly won me over. Plus, it’s also the ideal place if you’re looking to slow travel: spending time connecting with people, places and simply go with the flow.

One of my biggest highlights: the few hikes I did in Durmitor National Park. Whether you’re looking for an easy trail or a more challenging hike, the national park has it all!

So, if you’re an outdoor enthusiast and adventurer, don’t forget to include Montenegro on your bucket list! Memorable souvenirs and happy times guaranteed!

10 days in Montenegro? Check out my itinerary here!

2. Swimming and camping around Lake Hāwea, New Zealand

I’ve probably said it elsewhere on this blog, but one of my fondest memories of New Zealand was when I stopped (once again by pure coincidence) at Lake Hāwea.

There’s something special about this place that made me forget the hectic life and stress we all go through sometimes. I was only there for 4 days if my memory serves, but sometimes you don’t have to stay in a place for long for it to have a real impact on you, even years later.

I loved this place so much that I think it would be one of the first places I’d go to if I went back to New Zealand.

From swimming to camping around the lake, there’s plenty to do, but just walking around or admiring the mountainous scenery reflected in the water and its vivid blue waters is reason enough to visit, if you ask me.

3. Diving in Koh Tao, Thailand

Whether you know me or not, I’ll let you in on a little secret: I love the ocean and all the activities that go with it, so when I first visited Koh Tao, of course I couldn’t leave the island without trying diving and getting certified.

Since then, I have to say that the island has grown on me, and I return every time I’m in this part of the world.

And if you’re not a big fan of the underwater world, don’t worry, the island is still ideal for a nature trip thanks to its many activities: climbing, yoga or simply sunbathing.

Thailand has many islands, sure, but I must say that Koh Tao is always one of my favorites.

4. Chasing waterfalls and canyoneering, Philippines

Here’s another country where nature trips await you everywhere. Between island hopping, diving, canyoneering, exploring green rice terraces and more, the Philippines is a paradise for all travelers looking for unforgettable, unique and fun adventures.

And because it’s always nice to try new things, I highly recommend canyoneering where you walk, climb, jump and more. Fun, tiring and amazing, be aware that you’ll probably feel sore the next day, but it’s definitely worth it.

The Philippines is also the ideal country if you love nature but feel a little less sporty. You can go chasing beautiful waterfalls: Kinahugan Falls, Kawasan Falls, Maria Cristina Falls… and cool off at the same time!

5. Cycling for leisure around Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan

When I said I loved the ocean, you might actually think I love any body of water, Sun Moon Lake being the third lake in this post, and maybe I do.

Anyway, if you want to get away from the island’s busiest cities, a nature trip to Sun Moon Lake could be just what you’re looking for. Here, relaxation, culture, and nature welcome you for a lovely day of peaceful beauty. And what better way to enjoy its sights? By bike, of course!

Only have a day to spare to this picturesque lake? Click here for a more detailed article!

6. Sea kayaking, Greece

Greece and its 6,000 islands are the perfect place for some island hopping, don’t you think? But that’s not all, as this European country, known for its sunny, pleasant weather, delicious food and warm waters, is also ideal if you’d like to explore the famous blue caves.

Get on your kayak or rent a pedal boat and get ready to explore the striking blue waters and rock formations that surround these magical places.

I don’t know about you, but I can’t get enough of the panoramic sea views, the mesmerizing arches that rise above your head, and the stunning waters that accompany you as you glide slowly across the water on your vessel.

7. Walking along the coast in Jeju, South Korea

Fortunately, nature is everywhere in South Korea. So it’s not hard to escape the big cities and enjoy a little respite in the great outdoors. If you love hiking, even better, as the country is dotted with great trails and hiking is something of a favorite hobby for many Koreans.

But if you want to admire nature, slow travel, pause and soak up those island vibes, then head for Jeju Island.

Plus, thanks to its Olle Trails spread all over the island, you can walk through villages, forests, follow the coastline or stop to sunbathe on one of the beautiful beaches while discovering Jeju’s history and beauty and getting some exercise at the same time.

And with 21 routes, I’d say there’s no better way to explore the island, especially when you don’t have a car!

For more things to do in Jeju, read more here!

8. Snowy landscapes & Northern Lights in Abisko, Sweden

Because just this once will not hurt, let’s forget the warmer climates and ocean vibes and head for a more Nordic country: Sweden.

If your idea of a nature trip sounds more like snowy landscapes, a scarf, a muffler and snuggling around a fire, then you should definitely consider a trip to Abisko, where snow-covered mountains and white wonderland await you, not to mention the northern lights!

And although I’m the last one to love the cold and snow, as I’m more of an island type of girl, I have to admit that, going there mainly for the northern lights, Abisko’s scenery enchanted me, to say the least!

So, whether you want to see a magical natural phenomenon or enjoy making a snowman, why not visit Abisko?

Click here to read my article on Abisko and the northern lights without a car!

9. Camping under the stars and wilderness, Australia

I can’t leave out the first country I fell in love with and where I had so many wonderful experiences off this list, so here’s Australia: beautiful, wild and unforgettable.

Tired of your job or simply want to get away from it all? Rent a car and go on a road trip to the country’s emptiest roads and most breathatking landscapes.

Whether you want to visit national parks, roll down dunes, surf, or camp under the stars, Australia has it all. And I don’t think I’ve ever seen the Milky Way so clearly or felt so close to the sky since my trip there.

Not to mention, the road trips in Australia remain among the best I’ve done so far!

10. Forest bathing and healing walks, Indonesia

Gorgeous rice terraces, lush forests, volcanoes, lakes… these are just some of the things that make Indonesia (and I’m not just talking about Bali) the perfect country for a nature trip to relax and recharge your batteries.

And in a country where you can quickly be buried under the noise of motorbikes and heavy traffic, a healing walk will soon be just what you need. Luckily, you don’t have to go too far to find such places in Indonesia, where parks, nature trails and green oases are legion to connect with nature and escape the hustle and bustle of even the biggest cities.

Do you like nature trips, or are you more of a city person? Let me know your favorite rejuvenating trips in the comments!

Looking to explore some underrated destinations? Here are 10 of mine!