Discover Ultimate Slow‑Travel Getaways: Your Guide to Mindful Destinations this Year
Why Cornwall is the New Slow‑Travel Hotspot
The Call of the Quiet Coast
Cornwall has been quietly glowing on the travel radar, and not just because of its peaceful beaches. The place offers a simple rhythm of life where the only traffic jam you’ll see is a busker stuck on a pier.
Drastic, Yet Charming Landscapes
From jagged cliffs that shout “mountain‑high” to rolling dunes that play hide‑and‑seek with the tide, Cornwall’s scenery is dramatic in the best way. It’s the kind of setting that makes you feel like you’re in one of those “doomscrolling” memes—except it’s righteous and instead of doom, you’re firmly rooting your toes in sand.
Menu That Makes Your Tastebuds Tutu‑lulu‑tudu
Stop at a seaside bistro and get served local seafood. The fish, thanks to the cool Atlantic breezes, is as fresh as bragging about being the “established” local wizard in the kitchen. The food is diverse enough to turn any foodie into a braggart of the board—but keep it classy, folks.
Why Slow Travellers are Choosing Cornwall
- Less Pop Culture, More Soul Culture – the vibe is dreamy when you’re learning a new language or just getting lost in a comfy book.
- Easy‑going “No Rush” Traffic – consider that a lucid brain; you won’t read this after a helicopter ride across the lake.
- Local Hospitality – greet aantivar with a big grin; it’s the only place where you get free selfies with the sand.
- Historic Sites and Modern Art – from castles to street art, Cornwall keeps all the momentum you want.
All in all, Cornwall’s quiet vibes, dramatic sceneries, and delicious food shelf offers a treat that’s easily easy to trip offerences, offering curled for travellers who crave. Chill out of deep where. It is the thing for less. And the who can be kind of) read. So, next time you’re planning a trip, put quick internet into dealing that person’s stuck, or before me neurological what a times, slow inter where this display. Enjoy.
Cornwall Tops Global Slow‑Travel Rankings
According to fresh research from Sainsbury’s Bank, Cornwall in the UK has been crowned the planet’s finest destination for slow travel. It outshines other favourites like Portugal’s Algarve, Tenerife’s Lanzarote, and Croatia’s Dubrovnik.
Why Slow Travel Is Catching on in the UK
- Annual slow‑travel searches in the United Kingdom grew by 5.4 % to 4,608 queries between April 2024 and March 2025.
- Travelers are shedding the frantic “see‑everything‑in‑a‑day” mindset for a more relaxed, meaningful experience.
- People feel they’re getting a richer, more authentic taste of the places they visit.
The Slow‑Travel Index Explained
The bank’s index looks at 30 top slow‑travel destinations, weighing factors such as:
- Price of travel and accommodation
- Local culinary delights
- Access to green spaces
- Opportunities for genuine relaxation
A Voice From Wellness
“Slow travel lets you soak in a place instead of rushing through it,” says wellness expert Eloise Skinner in an email to Euronews Travel. “In a world where burnout is on the rise, this mindful way of exploring could be a game‑changer for both body and mind.” She adds, “Staying longer in one spot helps us feel grounded and fully present.”
Other European Slow‑Travel Gems
- Algarve – Portugal’s sunny coast
- Provence – the romantic heart of France
- Lanzarote – the volcanic paradise in the Canary Islands
- Oslo – Norway’s capital, brimming with calm
Beyond Europe
- County Mayo – Ireland’s scenic county
- Dubrovnik – Croatia’s ancient coastline
- Balkans – a patchwork of culture and nature
- Iceland – the land of glaciers and geysers
- Tallinn – Estonia’s Baltic charm
Cornwall’s rugged coastlines and stunning beaches
Cornering Cornwall: Where Relaxation Meets Adventure
Cornwall is the UK’s go-to spot for those who love a mix of chill vibes and outdoor thrills. From sandy shores to rolling hills, the southwestern gem keeps travelers glued to its sun‑kissed coast and cozy villages.
Outdoor Ops for the Nomad Spirit
- Bike the Bissoe Cycle Trail from one cliff to another – perfect for feeling the wind in your hair and collecting photo bragging rights.
- Take a lonely stroll through Portloe, a sleepy village that feels like a breath of fresh air – literally.
- Jump aboard a cruise ship and pretend you’re a pirate or smuggler with a side gig at Holywell Bay’s sea caves.
- Wrap it up with a sunset skateboard session, or just relax on a hammock while listening to the waves.
Wellness Wavelengths
If “zen” is your buzzword, Cornwall’s got it too. Pick from:
- The Raw Retreat – where every steaming bath feels like a hug.
- Cabilla Cornwall – yoga sessions that let you stretch your soul.
- Bedruthan Hotel & Spa – features hydrotherapy pools that’ll make you forget you’re stuck in a hotel.
- St Michaels Resort – complete with a sensory garden that smells like summer.
Don’t miss the local food line: a potted crab, a slice of saffron cake, or the iconic cornish pasty – a handheld meat‑and‑potato feast that keeps you full and happy.
Sleeping Spots for Every Wallet
From budget to boutique, Cornwall’s lodging is as varied as its weather:
- Glamping at Willow Valley Glamping (Bude) – nature, but with a splash of luxury.
- Glamping at The Beeches Glamping (Newquay) – because bunk beds can be glamorous.
- Camping at Mount Pleasant Eco Park (Porthtowan) – sustainable style meets starlit nights.
Feeling fancy? Check out historic grand hotels like The Alverton in Truro and Tregenna Castle Resort in St Ives: contemporary luxury meets century‑old charm—always a good mix.
Words from a Travel Nerd
“Cornwall’s coastline, hidden gems, and rich history make it a dream for anyone who wants to slow their pace,” says Stuart Brian, head of travel money at Sainsbury’s Bank. “We’re all about grabbing those moments that let you truly unwind.”
Algarve’s traditional cuisine and turquoise lagoons
Algarve: Where the Sea Meets the Soul
Why it’s a Slow‑Travelers’ Heaven
Picture this: you’re doling out the minutes of your vacation to the most relaxing thing you can do in Portugal—sample fresh, locally‑caught seafood while the sun kisses the endless sapphire stretch of the Atlantic. That’s basically what Algarve offers, plus a side of Michelin‑like cuisine that’s now topping the global culinary index.
Food & Drink: A Treasure Trove
- Seafood feasts on sun‑baked terraces—think grilled sardines, octopus, and a sprinkle of salt that’s literally written by the sea.
- Organic produce straight from the farm: tomatoes, olives, figs, everything fresh enough to taste like a blessing.
- Vineyard adventures at places like Quinta dos Sentidos, Morgado do Quintão, and Quinta dos Vales—where wine tastings can start at as low as €30 per person, so you’re not breaking the bank while tasting Velvet burgundy or crisp white.
- Not to forget the costa & cliffs—great for wandering, for people who like to pair hiking with a good espresso.
Nature & Adventure: More Than Just Beaches
Algarve’s coast isn’t a one‑track mind. With quiet stretches of beach, the Parque Natural da Ria Formosa (a protected reserve), and the dramatic Monchique Mountains, you can bike through, hike, or simply sit on a cliff and watch the waves as they paint a masterpiece.
Where to Sleep: Farmhouses & Eco‑Lodges
- Stay in a traditional quinta—like Quinta do Pinheiro right next to the Ria Formosa reserve, or Quinta da Donalda in the heart of Portimão.
- Opt for a peaceful eco‑lodge at Conversas de Alpendre in Santa Rita, where the only noise that matters is the wind through the trees.
So if you’re on the lookout for a weekend that’s all about food, wine, nature, and that dreamy “I’m just here to enjoy the moment” vibe, Algarve is calling your name.
Provence’s vineyards and lavender fields
Discover Provence: A Pot‑Stop for Foodies, Relaxation Lovers and Adventure Seekers
Think of Provence as a giant vintage postcard you can actually walk through. Picture rolling vineyards, bright purple lavender, dramatic coastlines, and a pocket‑full of old‑world charm. It’s the kind of place where you can actually feel the sun on your skin and take a few breaths to let the stress melt away.
Where the Food Comes First
- Mediterranean‑minded Manners: Dine in Michelin‑starred chic spots that turn fresh garden produce into dishes that make your mouth water.
- Market Mayhem: Carve out your own treasure hunt at farmers markets in search of truffles, antiques, or those oddly shaped vines of wine.
- Water‑Works: Hop aboard a boat and glide to Calanques National Park for a mix of hiking, cliff‑side swims, or kayaking that will leave you feeling like a tiny dolphin.
Get Your Adventure On
- Pedal the Luberon: Grab a bike and cruise the hills that never get tired of rolling over vineyards.
- Spa Daydreams: Nestle into thermal springs at Digne‑les‑Bains or soak it all out in the hot springs at Aix‑en‑Provence.
Where to Rest
- B&B & Boutique Hooray: Choose from places like Moulin des Sources or the charming Chambres in Les Gros.
- Fairytale Suites: Stay in historic mansions such as Hotel de Tourrel in Saint‑Rémy‑de‑Provence or Chateau Le Cagnard at Cagnes‑sur‑Mer.
- Farmhouse Vibes: Experience rustic charm at La Bastide du Tinal in Ménerbes, a remodeled farmhouse that feels like stepping back in time.
Short on choices? No problem. Provence has a little something for everyone—whether you’re a foodie, a spa enthusiast, or just looking to step away from the grind and soak in nature’s masterpiece.
Ocean therapy and volcanoes in Lanzarote
Lanzarote: The Caldera Playground for the Slow-Moving Adventurer
Why Lanzarote is the Beach‑Backed, Earth‑Powerful Escape You’ve Been Missing
Think of an island that’s both volcanic and gently eco‑friendly. That’s Lanzarote for you, a dazzling gem nestled in Spain’s Canary Islands. Nicknamed “the island of a thousand volcanoes”, it’s a place where dramatic landscapes meet a commitment to nature—thanks to its UNESCO Biosphere Reserve status, every puff of sand and drop of water is carefully balanced with conservation.
Volcanic Geysers: Nature’s Fireworks Without the Fireworks
- Timanfaya National Park – Picture a place where the earth itself hiccups out geysers. It’s like the volcano version of a personal trainer for your senses.
- Hike the Caldera’s’ trails and enjoy a living geology show. The fireworks are natural and free of smoke.
Sips & Swirls: Wines That Whisper About the Land
- Local vineyards bring flavors that mirror the rugged topography—earthy, bold, and a little rebellious.
- Give a try to the renowned La Geria wines, grown in volcanic soil that makes every bite feel like a trip to the moon.
Green Galore: Cactus Gardens That Won’t Let You Forget Flowers
- Explore 400+ cactus species that are not just plants but living history scrolls.
- Learn how nature survives in sand, fire, and sun—perfect for the eco‑wary wanderer.
Chill Out Like a Seafloor Sun‑Bather
- Spas in Pueblo Calero – Thalasso & Spa and The Hesperia provide hydration therapy from sea‑water and volcanic hot springs.
- Picture yourself soaking under the twin forces of sea and magma – quite the combo!
Gastronomy: Tapas of the Island, Without a Hitch
- Papas Arrugadas – Slightly black, surprisingly ok, served with a blast of mojo rojo (chilli‑garlic sauce). It’s the pizza of potatoes.
- Dine at seafront spots or a cozy bodega where chefs use fresh, local ingredients – no shipping by ghosts.
And the Best Part…
Every moment on Lanzarote feels like a soft hug from the island itself: the sun, the sand, the volcanic stories, the eco‑clean practices, and the local cuisine. Whether you’re an aristocratic sun‑seeker or a quiet nature‑lover, this island’s sandbox feels built for all.
Secret fjords and chic city culture in Oslo
Take Your Time in Oslo—Slow‑Travel Edition
Oslo is the shining jewel of northern Europe, but it’s not all hurried subway rides and jet‑liner buzz. In fact, the city loves a good, chest‑deep pause. Stop, breathe, and let the city’s natural charms lure you into a relaxed adventure.
Coastal Charm & Lakeside Leisure
- Walk the Oslofjord: Picture strolling along a breezy waterfront, stopping a few feet away to watch a ferry glide by or to grab a kayak for a leisurely paddle.
- Island hopping: The fjord’s islands are treasure chests—each one a quiet chill zone for picnics, a splash in a hidden lake, or a short hike through forested bliss.
- Floating sauna vibes: Experience the KOK Oslo sauna on a dry dock—starts at just NOK 240 (€20.2) for a shared session. The heat, the water, the views—re‑enchant your senses.
Food That Feels Like a Hug
The culinary scene in Oslo is a discovery circuit of fresh, high‑quality ingredients. Restaurants like Maaemo and Kontrast pick the best from fjords and forests, turning each dish into a mini‑celebration.
A must‑try is Fårikål—cabbage + lamb stew, a dish more comforting than a teenage sitcom’s knock‑on‑door joke. Finish it with a serene cup of Nordic‑style coffee and a buttery kanelboller (cinnamon bun) that melts like a heartfelt hug.
Escape the City: Rural Retreats
Looking for a countryside reset? Launch into Romskog Spa & Resort—about an hour and 40 minutes from Oslo’s hustle—where forests whisper sweet and the spa is a tranquil repair shop for your body.
Prefer a loftier view? Rent a hilltop cabin or caravan; the wind will feel like an appreciative friend’s pat on the back.
Wrap‑up
Oslo proves that even a gleaming capital can be a canvas for slow travel. Let laughter, nature, and a pinocchio‑style drift into your journey. Relax: Oslo is waiting—and it’s ready to slow down, just like you.
