Treat yourself. You deserve it. In today’s world, rest is resistance. We all need to slow down, free ourselves from the daily grind, and practice self-care - for this vacation, give yourself some well-deserved R&R. Leave your laptop behind (perhaps even your family too), and stroll into one of these vacation dreamlands. We’ve got you covered if you’d rather spend your afternoon reading on the beach than hiking though the jungle. Us travel experts here at Plum Guide have been busy researching the most idyllic beaches and laidback cities, so that you can find the most relaxing vacation spots on the planet. We love noting more than going above and beyond for our guests, so read on for a truly ultimate guide.
Bath, UK
A view of the famous Roman Baths with a cathedral in the background, Bath, England, UK
The name gives everything away. This picture-perfect city has been hosting pleasure-seekers looking for both culture and relaxation for centuries. While you can’t get into the Roman Baths now, it’s worth looking around. And for those that do want to soak in Bath’s famous waters, there’s the modern Thermae Bath Spa, which includes a rooftop pool and wellness rooms. After you’ve soothed your muscles, why not relax your tongue in one of Bath’s famous cocktail bars.
The Parish Stone, Plum Guide home in Bath, UK
Tofino, Vancouver Island
A panoramic view of trees, mountains and lakes in Tofino, Vancouver Island
While Victoria, the capital of British Columbia, is laidback, Tofino is almost horizontal. After you’ve enjoyed some time in the city, make the breathtaking drive to Tofino, an ancient landscape and town on the west coast of Vancouver Island - this spot is all about slowing down and reconnecting with nature. Here you’ll find mist-covered old-growth rainforests, quiet inlets, and beaches perfect for surfing. We recommend a boat trip to spot whales, sea lions, orcas, eagles, and black bears.
Bern, Switzerland
A tall white spire and brown rooftops among green trees in front of a large lake and snow-capped mountains, Bern, Switzerland
Bern is so laidback, it’s hard to acknowledge that it’s actually a European capital city at all. It sits on a bend in the Aare River with a picturesque backdrop of hills and forest. On a clear day, you can see the Bernese Alps from atop the Bern Münster Cathedral. Make like a local and relax after an afternoon at the Zentrum Paul Klee gallery by taking a dip in the river. If you’re new to wild swimming, begin your journey in one of the city’s lidos. It’s not called Europe’s urban swimming capital for nothing.
Peaks and Valleys, Plum Guide home in Switzerland
Lake Atitlán, Guatemala
A small pier jutting out into Lake Atitlán in front a distant mountain at sunset, Guatemala
Whether you’re sitting next to a beach, river, or lake, there’s something inherently peaceful about the gentle rippling of flowing water. We think Lake Atitlán in Guatemala is up there with the most breathtaking lake destinations in the world. This freshwater lake is Guatemala’s third largest and is flanked by three giant volcanoes, as well as many more hills. There are seven Mayan towns around the shore, each with its own identity. If you’re looking for peace, visit Jaibalito, the lake’s quietest village. You can only reach it by boat or foot. Once here, settle into a hammock, read a book, and drink in the view.
Lake Como, Italy
A view of Lake Como from a nearby balcony, Lombardy, Italy
Italy pulls out all the stops when it comes to beauty, making it one of the finest and most relaxing vacation spots. Lake Como sparkles as much, if not more, than the country’s best cities. Como is the third largest of the Italian lakes, and is arguably the most spectacular - it’s no wonder the well-heeled come here to unwind. Make like a James Bond villain, and motorboat between Como’s postcard-perfect lakeside towns, sip espresso, and read in bougainvillaea-bejewelled lakeside gardens. The lake’s string of opulent manors are best viewed from the water (though they’re likely to leave you feeling more envious than relaxed).
Green Pesto, Plum Guide home in Lake Como, Italy
Paros, Greece
Pink flowers by a white cottage with blue windows in Paros, Greece
Yes, undoubtedly, Greek islands like Santorini and Crete are relaxing. But if you're looking for a more peaceful holiday destination, we suggest going somewhere with fewer crowds and no stag dos. Paros is one of those islands that most tourists miss, with fewer nightclubs and more whitewashed hillside towns - as well as hidden beaches. Base yourself in Naoussa, a fishing village in Northern Paros - it’s considered one of the prettiest villages in the Cyclades. While away your afternoon reading the Greek epics in a local restaurant, potter between the churches, and get lost in the labyrinth of narrow, stone-paved streets.
Modern Tradition, Plum Guide home in Paros, Greece
Copenhagen, Denmark
A view of boats docked in a canal behind a Danish flag, Copenhagen, Denmark
"Where is the most relaxing place for a city break in Europe?" we hear you ask. Well, in our expert opinion, we think it’s Copenhagen - there’s something effortlessly laidback about the Danish capital. You can cycle everywhere, swim in the harbour baths, and warm up in one of the city’s communal saunas (you might need this if you're visiting in winter). No one is in a rush here - just hire a bicycle and pedal from the city’s iconic eateries to one of their many Mikkeller breweries. Then join the locals to catch the last of the sun on Queen Louise’s Bridge - it’s the world’s busiest bicycle street connecting the city centre with the buzzing Nørrebro area.
Tranquil Canal Waters, Plum Guide home in Copenhagen, Denmark
The Maldives
An aerial view of two small boats on clear blue water by a serene island, The Maldives
When wondering where the most relaxing place to go on vacation truly is, a lot of people would consider the Maldives a very strong candidate. This country is an undisputed island paradise - you won’t find white sands and blue waters like this anywhere else on Earth. In fact, these islands are so perfect that they hardly seem real. Instead of island hopping, you’ll be making one of these your home for the week. A trip here is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion, so go all out and get a villa floating over the water. We dare you.
Barbados
A single palm tree at the edge of a green cliff overlooking the blue sea in Barbados
When most people picture relaxing vacation spots, they envision the sea, sun, and sand of the Caribbean. But Barbados isn’t just famed for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches - it has something for everyone, from the foodie to the explorer, historian, and adventurer. Decide whether you want to join society’s elite in the luxury resorts on the western “Platinum Coast”, or visit the more unspoiled, Atlantic-facing, rugged East Coast. Swim with turtles in Folkestone Marine Park, before returning to your beach-side hotel for a rum cocktail and a local delicacy - flying fish.
As The Tide Rolls In, Plum Guide home in Barbados
Big Sur, California, USA
An aerial view of Highway 1 running along plain hills by the sea, Big Sur, California, USA
For some, the traditional Californian road trip might not be their idea of a peaceful vacation, especially if you’re in charge of map reading. But some are drawn to the white line and cannot picture anything better than watching dramatic landscapes from the comfort of an open-top car. If this is you, we recommend following in the footsteps of Jack Kerouac and driving Big Sur. This classic drive follows twisting Highway 1 from San Simeon to Carmel. To make it extra relaxing, stop and visit parks along the coastline. We recommend taking a hike and picnic at Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park to view McWay Falls.
Desert Adventure, Plum Guide home in Joshua Tree, USA
Tulum, Mexico
A bird's eye view of clear blue waves rolling onto white sand in front of palm trees and sunbathing people at a beach, Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is as famous historically as it is unforgettable (perhaps more) - this slice of paradise was the last great city constructed and inhabited by the Maya. However, this spot isn’t just famed for its otherworldly archaeological sites - it also has a spectacular coastline. Escape the town centre, and head South to the stretch of Beach Road that sits closer to Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. You’ll find peace, wellness offerings, boutique shops, luxury hotels, beachfront and jungle dining options, and white sand beaches.
Majorca, Spain
A red tram riding next to palm trees at sunset, Majorca, Spain
If you picture the Mediterranean right now, you’re likely thinking of Mallorca. Day-to-day living on this show-stopping island truly encapsulates slow living at its most alluring. Away from the thriving capital, fishing villages with pastel-painted shutters surround tiny coves. Spend a week drinking Aperol Spritz, dining on fresh seafood, and snorkelling. And if you can’t leave without that postcard-perfect picture of turquoise waters and craggy cliffs, we recommend visiting Calo des Moro Beach in southeast Majorca.
The Flower Garden, Plum Guide home in Majorca, Spain
Japan
A person on a kayak on a large lake in front of Mount Fuji in the fall, Japan
You might not imagine frenetic Tokyo as a relaxing destination, but once there, you can take day trips and weekends away to one of Japan’s iconic hot springs. There’s nothing more rejuvenating than soaking in volcanic spring water, especially if it’s snowing. We recommend Kurokawa Onsen, one of Japan’s most attractive hot spring towns, located in the middle of Kyushu - reach it by bus from Fukuoka Airport. This town has maintained a peaceful, traditional atmosphere, free from neon advertisements and resort hotels. Instead, you will find wooden homes on either side of a flowing river. At Kurokawa Onsen, you can enjoy water and forest bathing, as many of the public baths are nestled in woodland.
The Algarve, Portugal
A wooden staircase leading down to a beach through green trees in front of the blue sea and large rocks, The Algarve, Portugal
Admittedly, surfing isn’t always relaxing. But if you have a penchant for it, there’s nothing more laidback than time spent riding the waves, followed by a beach-side beer. This landscape is for ocean-lovers that would trade those white sandy beaches for dramatic cliffs, sea caves, golden sands, and dazzling sunsets. The Algarve gets 300 sunny days per year, so even if you don’t like to surf, you can spend the time sunbathing on beaches or boats. We also recommend bay-hopping between Faro and Lagos.
Transcendent, Plum Guide home in the Algarve, Portugal
French Riviera, France
Aerial view of a quiet beach with golden sand in the French Riviera
If you want to see and be seen while sunbathing on the beach, then get down to the French Riviera. Join the well-heeled on the dazzling stretch of coast between Monaco and Cannes. While finding a secluded beach during the summer is challenging, we know of a cove that might be more peaceful than others - Calanque de Port Pin. It requires a hike, but the pine forest, craggy rocks, and azure waters are well worth it. If you want to escape the sun and the crowds, why not visit one of the area’s iconic galleries - we recommend stopping at Antibes Picasso Museum.
Guardian Hill, Plum Guide home in the French Riviera, France
