Are you ready to book your next trip? Before you start creating a packed itinerary, it might be worth hitting pause and considering doing things a little differently.
Say hello to slow travel, which encourages you to swap hectic holidays for a more meaningful approach.
Want to find out more? Take a look at our guide to find out if this type of exploration is for you.
What exactly is slow travel?
Put simply, slow travel is about spending more time in fewer places and really getting to know them.
Instead of hopping between cities or rushing to see top tourist attractions, you settle into one destination and experience it more deeply – from its food and culture to its day-to-day rhythm.
It invites you to be more present and truly enjoy each moment, whether you’re wandering through local markets, chatting to residents or taking the scenic route.
In short, it’s less about ticking sights off a list and more about experiencing every aspect of your chosen destination.
What are the benefits of slow travel?
The biggest appeal? It can make your holiday feel more enjoyable.
By slowing down, you naturally reduce the stress that comes with trying to pack in too much during your trip.
It can also give you more meaningful experiences.
When you stay longer in one place, you’re more likely to connect with local people, discover hidden gems and experience authentic culture beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
There are also sustainability benefits. Travelling less between destinations and choosing transport like trains can reduce your environmental impact.
Which destinations are great for slow travel?
The good news is you don’t have to travel far to embrace slow travel. In the UK, you could visit:
- The Scottish Highlands – perfect for scenic rail journeys, cosy stays and exploring nature at your own pace.
- Cornwall and Devon – ideal for coastal walks, beach days and picturesque villages.
- The Lake District – enjoy scenic hikes, lakeside views and long pub lunches.
If you want to travel further afield, consider destinations such as:
- Tuscany, Italy – think countryside villas, local markets and long, leisurely meals.
- The Dordogne, France – great for cycling routes, delicious wine and charming villages.
- Andalusia, Spain – Cities like Seville are perfect for wandering at your own pace, with great tapas, historic sites and plenty of spots to sit and soak up the atmosphere.
How to stay connected while switching off
Slow travel doesn’t mean going completely off-grid (unless you want to).
You might be keen to continue checking emails, messaging family or playing arcade games on your phone, while exploring your destination.
If you want to get the balance right, you could try:
- Allocating set times to check your devices
- Keeping devices away during excursions
- Using “do not disturb” modes while exploring
This way, you stay connected without missing what’s right in front of you.
At its heart, slow travel is about experiencing more of what matters, giving you meaningful memories that go beyond photos and ticked-off landmarks.
So next time you’re planning a trip, consider slowing things down. You might discover it’s your favourite way to travel.