Countryside Travel Destinations
Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the delightful charm of countryside travel destinations that offer not only serene landscapes but also warm-hearted locals and the simple joys of rural living. Imagine yourself meandering through vibrant sunflower fields in the picturesque region of Tuscany, where you can indulge in homemade pasta at a charming trattoria or enjoy a perfectly brewed artisan coffee in a snug café nestled among the rolling hills. Each enchanting destination beckons you to slow down and savor the soothing rhythm of nature, whether you are exploring the lush vineyards of the South of France, uncovering hidden waterfalls in the serene English countryside, or cycling through the idyllic villages of the Netherlands. With Idyllic Travel, every journey transforms into a celebration of tranquility and connection, inspiring you to create cherished memories amidst the breathtaking beauty of the natural world.
Enchanting Escapades in the Countryside
France 🇫🇷 – Timeless Villages & Lavender Fields
1. Provence
✅ Visit the Lavender Fields of Valensole – Stroll through endless purple fields (best in June-July).
✅ Stay in a Château in the Luberon – Experience a luxury countryside retreat.
✅ Explore the Hilltop Villages of Gordes & Roussillon – Walk through stone-paved streets with panoramic views.
2. Loire Valley
✅ Tour Château de Chambord & Chenonceau – Discover fairy-tale castles with fascinating histories.
✅ Cycle Through Vineyards & Villages – Ride past picturesque vineyards and charming cottages.
✅ Enjoy a Wine Tasting in Sancerre – Sample some of France’s best Sauvignon Blanc wines.
3. Dordogne
✅ Explore the Prehistoric Lascaux Caves – See incredible ancient cave paintings.
✅ Canoe Along the Dordogne River – Glide past medieval villages and limestone cliffs.
✅ Visit the Market Town of Sarlat – Enjoy truffle-infused delicacies and authentic French countryside life.
Italy 🇮🇹 – Rolling Hills & Rustic Charm
1. Tuscany
✅ Stay in an Agriturismo (Farmhouse) – Experience authentic countryside living with wine & olive oil tastings.
✅ Explore Val d’Orcia’s Rolling Hills – Visit Pienza, Montepulciano & Montalcino for breathtaking scenery.
✅ Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride Over Vineyards – Get a bird’s-eye view of the Tuscan countryside.
2. Umbria
✅ Visit Assisi’s Spiritual Sites – Walk in the footsteps of St. Francis and admire stunning frescoes.
✅ Hike Through Monte Subasio National Park – Discover lush forests, wildflowers, and medieval ruins.
✅ Indulge in Truffle Hunting & Cooking Classes – Experience authentic Italian cuisine in rustic farmhouses.
3. South Tyrol
✅ Hike the Dolomites’ Scenic Trails – Marvel at breathtaking mountain landscapes and turquoise lakes.
✅ Visit Fairy-Tale Villages Like Ortisei & Brixen – Stroll through alpine villages with pastel-colored houses.
✅ Relax in Thermal Spas of Merano – Enjoy luxurious wellness treatments with mountain views.
United Kingdom 🇬🇧 – Rolling Hills & Historic Villages
1. Cotswolds (England)
✅ Explore the Honey-Stone Villages – Visit Bibury, Bourton-on-the-Water & Castle Combe.
✅ Take a Traditional Afternoon Tea – Enjoy scones, clotted cream, and fine teas in a countryside manor. ✅ Wander Through Sudeley Castle & Gardens – Discover enchanting gardens and Tudor history.
2. Lake District (England)
✅ Boat Across Lake Windermere – Take a scenic cruise surrounded by lush hills.
✅ Hike Up Catbells for Spectacular Views – One of the best walking trails for women travelers.
✅ Stay in a Cozy Cottage with a Fireplace – Experience classic English countryside charm.
3. Scottish Highlands (Scotland)
✅ Drive the North Coast 500 Scenic Route – Discover majestic mountains, lochs, and castles.
✅ Visit the Fairy Pools on Isle of Skye – A magical natural wonder with crystal-clear waters.
✅ Stay in a Castle Hotel – Live like Scottish royalty with breathtaking scenery.
Japan 🇯🇵 – Serene Countryside & Cultural Wonders
1. Hakone
✅ Soak in an Outdoor Onsen (Hot Spring) – Relax with views of Mount Fuji.
✅ Take a Pirate Ship Cruise on Lake Ashi – See Fuji reflected on the water.
✅ Ride the Hakone Ropeway Over Volcanic Valleys – Admire steam vents & sulfur hot springs.
2. Takayama
✅ Wander Through Traditional Edo-Period Streets – Step back in time in the old town district.
✅ Stay in a Ryokan (Traditional Inn) with a Kaiseki Meal – Experience Japanese hospitality.
✅ Explore Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO-Listed Village – Famous for its thatched-roof farmhouses.
3. Nara
✅ Visit the Giant Buddha at Todai-ji Temple – Marvel at one of Japan’s most sacred sites.
✅ Stroll Through Nara Park & Feed Friendly Deer – A unique, peaceful experience.
✅ Experience a Tea Ceremony in a Traditional Garden – Learn the art of Japanese tea culture.
Switzerland 🇨🇭 – Majestic Alpine Retreats
1. Interlaken
✅ Paraglide Over the Swiss Alps – Experience a breathtaking aerial view of mountains and lakes.
✅ Take a Scenic Boat Ride on Lake Thun – Crystal-clear waters with stunning alpine scenery.
✅ Ride the Jungfraujoch Railway to the “Top of Europe” – Stand at the highest railway station in Europe.
2. Zermatt
✅ Ski or Hike with Views of the Matterhorn – One of Switzerland’s most iconic peaks.
✅ Take the Gornergrat Cogwheel Train – Enjoy spectacular glacier and mountain views.
✅ Visit Gorner Gorge – A hidden gem with turquoise waterfalls and wooden walkways.
3. Lucerne
✅ Walk Across the Chapel Bridge – A beautiful 14th-century wooden bridge over the river.
✅ Take a Cruise on Lake Lucerne – Sail through dramatic mountain landscapes.
✅ Ride the World’s Steepest Cogwheel Train to Mount Pilatus – For panoramic views and alpine adventures.
Canada 🇨🇦 – Breathtaking Natural Beauty
1. Banff
✅ Soak in Banff Upper Hot Springs – A relaxing experience with mountain views.
✅ Explore Lake Louise & Moraine Lake – Famous for their stunning turquoise waters.
✅ Drive the Icefields Parkway – One of the most scenic roads in the world.
2. Quebec Countryside
✅ Visit Mont-Tremblant National Park – A paradise for hiking and canoeing.
✅ Stay in a Cozy Log Cabin in Charlevoix – Enjoy a romantic escape into nature.
✅ Experience a Sugar Shack Meal – Traditional maple syrup-infused cuisine.
3. Prince Edward Island
✅ Visit Green Gables House – A must for fans of Anne of Green Gables.
✅ Walk Along the Red Sand Beaches – Unique coastal beauty unlike anywhere else.
✅ Cycle the Confederation Trail – A peaceful ride through rolling farmlands.
New Zealand 🇳🇿 – Rolling Green Hills & Majestic Fjords
1. Wanaka
✅ Hike Roy’s Peak for Panoramic Views – One of NZ’s most famous trails.
✅ Kayak on Lake Wanaka – A serene water adventure.
✅ Stay in a Luxury Lakeside Lodge – The ultimate relaxation spot.
2. Matamata (Hobbiton)
✅ Take a Guided Hobbiton Movie Set Tour – Step into Middle-earth.
✅ Enjoy a Farm-to-Table Meal at the Green Dragon Inn – Authentic local food.
✅ Stay in a Hobbit-Style Guesthouse – A magical countryside retreat.
3. Marlborough
✅ Explore the Vineyards & Wineries – Home to world-class Sauvignon Blanc.
✅ Sail Through the Marlborough Sounds – A breathtaking coastal experience.
✅ Visit the Queen Charlotte Track for Hiking & Biking – Stunning views of forests and fjords.
South Africa 🇿🇦 – Wild Beauty & Tranquil Vineyards
1. Stellenbosch
✅ Wine Tasting at Delaire Graff Estate – Sip on award-winning wines while enjoying majestic mountain views.
✅ Cycle Through Vineyards & Countryside Trails – Discover charming wineries and lush landscapes.
✅ Enjoy a Farm-to-Table Picnic at Spier Wine Farm – Indulge in local delicacies surrounded by nature.
2. Drakensberg Mountains
✅ Hike the Tugela Falls Trail – See one of the world’s tallest waterfalls in an epic mountain setting.
✅ Horseback Riding in Royal Natal National Park – Ride through rolling green valleys.
✅ Stay in a Luxury Eco-Lodge – Wake up to breathtaking mountain sunrises.
3. Franschhoek
✅ Ride the Franschhoek Wine Tram – A scenic countryside train journey through vineyards.
✅ Visit the Huguenot Monument & Gardens – Learn about French heritage in this picturesque town.
✅ Savor a Gourmet Dining Experience – Franschhoek is South Africa’s culinary capital!
Chile 🇨🇱 – Patagonia’s Untamed Beauty & Vineyards
1. Torres del Paine National Park
✅ Hike to the Base of the Towers – A breathtaking trail with stunning glacial lakes.
✅ Stay in an Eco-Dome Lodge – Sleep under the stars in a luxury dome.
✅ Take a Scenic Boat Tour to Grey Glacier – Witness massive ice formations up close.
2. Colchagua Valley
✅ Explore the Santa Cruz Wine Route – Home to some of Chile’s best red wines.
✅ Visit the Colchagua Museum – Discover prehistoric fossils and Incan artifacts.
✅ Stay in a Boutique Vineyard Hotel – Wake up surrounded by rolling vineyards.
3. Chiloé Island
✅ Discover the Colorful Palafitos (Stilt Houses) – A fairy-tale coastal village.
✅ Visit the UNESCO Wooden Churches – Unique 16th-century handcrafted churches.
✅ Explore Chiloé National Park – A magical forest with rare wildlife.
Vietnam 🇻🇳 – Serene Rice Fields & Peaceful Villages
1. Sapa
✅ Trek Through the Muong Hoa Valley – Walk past breathtaking rice terraces and meet local hill tribes.
✅ Stay in a Traditional Homestay – Immerse yourself in authentic Vietnamese countryside life.
✅ Visit the Bac Ha Market – A colorful ethnic market with handmade crafts.
2. Ninh Binh
✅ Rowboat Ride in Tam Coc – Sail through limestone karsts and emerald rice paddies.
✅ Climb Mua Cave for a Stunning View – A 360° panoramic view over the countryside.
✅ Cycle Through Rural Villages – Meet friendly locals and see buffaloes in lush fields.
3. Dalat
✅ Visit the Valley of Love – A romantic countryside retreat with flower gardens.
✅ Explore the Coffee Plantations – Dalat is Vietnam’s coffee capital!
✅ Relax at a Natural Hot Spring – Soak in mineral-rich thermal pools.
Austria 🇦🇹 – Fairytale Alpine Villages & Rolling Green Hills
1. Hallstatt
✅ Take a Boat Ride on Hallstätter See – Enjoy jaw-dropping lake and mountain views.
✅ Visit the 7,000-Year-Old Salt Mines – Ride a wooden slide deep into history.
✅ Stroll Through the Charming Old Town – Walk through pastel-colored houses & flower-lined streets.
2. Wachau Valley
✅ Bike Along the Danube River – Ride through vineyards, medieval castles, and scenic countryside.
✅ Explore Dürnstein Castle Ruins – Where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned!
✅ Taste Local Apricot Schnapps & Wine – A unique countryside culinary experience.
3. Zell am See
✅ Relax by the Crystal-Clear Lake Zell – Swim, paddleboard, or simply unwind by the water.
✅ Take a Cable Car Ride to Schmittenhöhe – For spectacular panoramic views.
✅ Stay in a Traditional Alpine Lodge – Cozy up by the fire with stunning mountain views.