Do you sometimes feel like you want to escape to nature? Rent a secluded holiday cottage somewhere, preferably with an open fire, and get some proper rest and relaxation? Even if it’s such for a few days, there are plenty of quiet European holiday destinations nearby that are perfect for snatching some well-deserved me-time in the middle of a bus year. We’ve selected our top 5 relaxing holiday destinations, away from the bustling beach resorts and crowds.
Veluwe
For a small country, the Netherlands have an amazing amount of space and nature. One of our favourite National Parks is the Hoge Veluwe, with its abundance of wildlife, vast heathlands and vibrant colours. The big beasts native to the park are red deer, wild boars, mouflons and roe deer. Besides the ‘big four’, you may also encounter foxes, badgers, grouse, woodpeckers, nightjars, sand lizards and natterjack toads! The sand drifts will make you feel like a pioneer heading west; with shiftings sands and barren grasslands, the atmosphere to this area of the park is hard to put down into words. There is also wet and dry heathlands at the park, providing a wealth of purples, yellows and oranges. The forests are some of the oldest in the Netherlands, included huge oak, pine and birch trees. Have a look at our holiday parks in the Veluwe, and book a quiet and relaxing break with your loved ones.
Wadden Islands
The Wadden Islands, also known as the Frisian Islands, are a small archipelago off the coast of Netherlands, Germany and Denmark. There are 5 inhabited islands above the Netherlands: Texel, Vlieland, Terschelling, Ameland and Schiermonnikoog. Each island offers something different, with Texel being the largest and most touristy. Vlieland is car-free and offers the perfect relaxing break, with huge dunes, crashing coastlines and forests as deep as the north sea. The islands are easy to reach from the mainland by ferry and have an old-world charm to make you feel that much more separated from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Have a look at our holiday cottages on the Frisian Islands and enjoy a relaxing break.
Eifel
The Eifel National Park in North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, is a true wilderness. So wild that you may even meet big cats prowling the vast landscape of forests, fens and lakes. It’s over 110 square metres, which is approximately 17,000 football pitches. It’s the ideal destination to get back to nature, take a breath of fresh air and relax with your loved ones. Besides the blossoming meadows, volcanic crags and dense forests, there are ancient castles in the National Park. The main activities in the park are hiking, cross country skiing and animal spotting. You can even go with a park ranger to spot various animal tracks, including stags and wild cats. Stay at one of our holiday resorts in the Eifel and enjoy the perfect combination of nature and comfort.
Belgian Ardennes
Situated in the south-east of Belgium, the Ardennes are one of the great unspoilt nature areas in Europe. With old villages built into hilltops, fast flowing rivers gushing through towns and vast forests, it’s an idea destination for a restorative and relaxing escape. The Ardennes are especially ideal for holiday makers who want a balance of nature and culture during their stay. The hiking and mountain biking routes in the region are excellent, and many of our holiday parks offer bicycle rental. The picturesque villages and towns and rich in history and culture. Taste sometraditional, locally-brewed beers and visit some of the oldest churches in the area. Visit one of our cottages in the Ardennes.
Tirol
Whether mid-winter or in the heat of summer, Tirol is a breathtaking destination. In the heart of the Austrian Alps, the landscape is characterised by rugged peaks, rolling pastures and stunning glaciers. In the winter you can enjoy skiing or snowboarding at some of the less crowded resorts, and in summer you can rent bikes and explore the area on the saddle. Have a look at our holiday parks in Tirol!
Book your quiet holiday now
Have a look at our range of holiday parks and choose a cottage surrounded by nature.