The Wellness Tourism Revolution
In recent years, wellness tourism has gained significant momentum, with travelers seeking more than just a relaxing escape—they're looking for ways to rejuvenate both body and mind. Wellness tourism, or what is increasingly being referred to as "Vitamin T" (with the "T" standing for travel), goes beyond the typical vacation. It's a conscious investment in well-being and health, allowing people to focus on longevity, self-care, and mindfulness during their time away.
Destinations such as Sedona, Arizona, and Ojai, California, have become hotspots for those searching for wellness retreats, spiritual workshops, yoga sessions, and other activities aimed at revitalizing the body and soul. This growing trend isn’t just about unwinding—it’s about nurturing one's health to live a longer, more balanced life.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of wellness tourism, why it's on the rise, and highlight some of the best destinations to consider for your next rejuvenating trip.
What is Wellness Tourism and Why Is It Trending?
Wellness tourism refers to travel experiences focused on improving one's health and mental well-being. It typically involves activities like yoga, hiking, meditation, and holistic healing practices. According to a report from Kayak.com, travelers are increasingly selecting vacation destinations based on their ability to promote wellness, with the ultimate goal of extending their lifespan. This growing trend reflects a societal shift where people are prioritizing their health over material indulgences.
Kayak's "What the Future Report" predicts that by 2030, wellness tourism, or "Vitamin T," will no longer be a travel trend but a necessity. People are no longer just booking vacations—they are investing in their overall health. Forget anti-aging creams and quick fixes; wellness travel is now the most effective and age-defying treatment available.
5 Key Reasons to Consider Wellness Tourism for Your Next Trip
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Promotes Physical Health and Longevity Wellness tourism focuses on activities like hiking, yoga, and meditation that help travelers improve their physical health. Engaging in these activities while surrounded by nature helps reduce stress, lower blood pressure, and boost overall fitness, contributing to long-term health benefits.
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Mental and Emotional Rejuvenation Traveling for wellness allows individuals to disconnect from their everyday stresses and find clarity. Immersing yourself in nature or attending wellness workshops can help improve mental health, reduce anxiety, and boost emotional well-being.
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Spiritual Growth Many wellness destinations offer spiritual healing programs that allow travelers to connect with themselves and their surroundings on a deeper level. Sedona, Arizona, for example, is known for its energy vortexes, where people come to meditate, heal, and reconnect spiritually.
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Mindful Eating and Healthy Dining Wellness retreats often offer organic, locally sourced meals designed to nourish the body. Traveling to wellness-focused destinations allows you to adopt healthier eating habits and experience nourishing meals that contribute to vitality and well-being.
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Detox from Technology Disconnecting from digital devices is a crucial aspect of wellness travel. Destinations that emphasize mindfulness and healing encourage travelers to put down their phones and embrace the present moment. This technology detox provides an opportunity for mental clarity and reduces the overwhelming presence of constant notifications.
As the concept of work-life balance continues to evolve, an increasing number of professionals are taking extended breaks from their careers to travel. Traditionally, gap years were associated with students fresh out of high school or university, eager to explore the world before settling into academic or corporate life. However, with changing workplace dynamics and shifting priorities, the mid-career gap year is becoming a major trend in 2025.
Why Are Mid-Career Professionals Taking Extended Breaks?
- Burnout and the need for mental rejuvenation
- The Rise of Flexible Work Policies
- Delayed Retirement and Career Longevity
- Financial Independence and Prioritizing Experiences
Top Destinations for a Mid-Career Gap Year
- Southeast Asia: Countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and Vietnam offer affordable travel experiences, rich culture, and opportunities for personal growth.
- South America: Argentina, Peru, and Colombia provide adventure-filled itineraries with a mix of city life, nature, and historical sites.
- Europe: Extended walking tours in Slovenia, the Baltic States, and Northern Italy are gaining popularity among professionals looking for immersive, slow-travel experiences.
- Africa: Safari trips in Kenya and Namibia, as well as cultural experiences in Ghana and Morocco, are attracting mid-career travelers looking for unique, once-in-a-lifetime adventures.
Exploring Nigeria's Vibrant Cultural Festivals in 2025
Nigeria, often hailed as the "Giant of Africa," boasts a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, celebrated through numerous festivals that captivate both locals and visitors alike. In 2025, these festivals continue to showcase the nation's diverse traditions, music, dance, and rituals. Here are some of the most notable cultural festivals you shouldn't miss:
1. Argungu Festival
Held annually in Kebbi State, the Argungu Festival is a grand celebration of the region's cultural history. The highlight is the famous Argungu fishing competition, where thousands of fishermen armed with large fishnet spears race to catch the biggest fish from the river.
2. Eyo Festival
Originating as a royal procession to honor the Oba (king) of Lagos, the Eyo Festival is a visually striking event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Yoruba people. It serves as a precursor to the more widely known Lagos Carnival.
3. Ofala Festival
Celebrated by the Onitsha people in Anambra State, the Ofala Festival marks the annual coronation of the Obi (king). The event features traditional dances, masquerades, and royal processions, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural traditions of the community.
4. Motherland Festival
Launched as part of the Motherland 2025 initiative, the Motherland Festival is a groundbreaking cultural and tourism event aimed at positioning Nigeria as a top global tourist destination. The festival features a blend of music, art, fashion, and culinary experiences that celebrate Nigeria's rich heritage.
5. Osun-Osogbo Festival
Dedicated to the goddess Osun, the Osun-Osogbo Festival is a significant event for the Yoruba people. The festival includes traditional rituals, music, and dances, attracting visitors from around the world to the sacred Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Traveling the world doesn't have to be expensive. With careful planning, smart budgeting, and a few insider tricks, you can explore new destinations without draining your savings. This guide will provide actionable tips to help you travel affordably while still enjoying incredible experiences.
Benefits of Early Planning
Allows you to find the best deals on flights and accommodation.
Gives you time to research budget-friendly destinations.
Helps you take advantage of discounts and promotional offers.
Tools for Budget Planning
Google Flights & Skyscanner: Track flight prices and book at the lowest rates.
Airbnb & Hostelworld: Find affordable lodging options.
Rome2Rio: Compare transport options to save on travel expenses.
Some countries offer a lower cost of living, making them ideal for budget travelers. Consider destinations in Southeast Asia, Eastern Europe, and Central America.
Top Budget-Friendly Destinations
Thailand: Affordable food, transport, and accommodations.
Portugal: An inexpensive yet scenic European destination.
Mexico: Low-cost travel with beautiful beaches and culture.
Flight Booking Tips
Use Incognito Mode: Prevent price hikes due to repeated searches.
Be Flexible with Dates: Flying midweek or off-season saves money.
Sign Up for Alerts: Use platforms like Scott’s Cheap Flights for deals.
Affordable Lodging Options
Hostels: Great for solo travelers and budget stays.
Couchsurfing: Stay with locals for free.
House Sitting: Stay in homes while taking care of pets or plants.
Camping: Ideal for nature lovers and free lodging.
How to Eat on a Budget
Street Food: Often cheaper and more authentic than restaurants.
Cook Your Own Meals: Rent places with kitchen access.
Grocery Stores: Buy snacks and meals instead of dining out frequently.
Local Markets: Affordable fresh produce and meals.
The Majestic Himalayas: Nepal’s Crown Jewel
The Himalayas are not just a mountain range; they are an iconic symbol of natural beauty, spiritual significance, and adventure. Spanning five countries, the Himalayas are home to Nepal’s most remarkable treasures, with Mount Everest standing proudly as the highest peak on Earth. The Himalayas offer unparalleled views, incredible trekking opportunities, and a unique blend of cultural richness. If you are looking to explore one of the most awe-inspiring regions in the world, the Himalayas in Nepal should be at the top of your list. You can read more about this adventure in our Top Treks in Nepal: From Everest to Annapurna article
Unveiling Nepal’s Himalayan Wonders
Nepal, often called the "Gateway to the Himalayas," is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, mystical temples, and the snow-covered peaks of the towering Himalayan range. The country’s diverse geography provides trekkers and adventurers with numerous trails, each offering spectacular views of towering mountains, pristine lakes, and lush valleys.
1. Mount Everest: The Ultimate Challenge
No visit to Nepal is complete without witnessing the majestic Mount Everest, known locally as Sagarmatha (meaning “Forehead in the Sky”). Standing at an incredible height of 8,848 meters (29,029 feet), Everest is a dream destination for mountaineers and trekkers alike. The Everest Base Camp Trek offers an unforgettable experience for those wishing to view the world's highest mountain up close, without the need for climbing it.
2. Annapurna Circuit: A Trekker’s Paradise
The Annapurna Circuit is another iconic trek in Nepal, known for its diversity in landscapes, ranging from subtropical forests to alpine meadows. This trek takes you through picturesque villages, where you can experience the local culture, enjoy hot springs, and witness some of the most stunning panoramas of Annapurna I, Dhaulagiri, and Machapuchare.
Tree Hotel—Harads, Sweden
Treehotel is a modern residence suspended high above the leafy canopies of Sweden's Harads forest. This fusion of contemporary architecture and whimsical fun is the ideal place to cozy up among the trees—and it's only 50 kilometers from the Arctic Circle.
Treehotel was conceived by entrepreneur Kent Lindvall and consists of four forest dwellings, each custom-designed by a different architect. Choose between the reflective Mirrorcube, the camouflaged Bird's Nest, the wooden cabin, and the otherworldly UFO as your lodging. These eco-friendly accommodations also include a sauna, hot tub, and swimming pool.
Tsala Treetop Lodge—Harkerville, South Africa
This idyllic treetop retreat is ideal for couples seeking a romantic getaway with plenty of comfort and atmosphere. Relax in your private infinity pool with a glass of champagne as the sun sets beyond a horizon of verdant mountains
Most of us are aware that one must visit the Louvre and the Uffizi when in Paris and Florence, respectively. However, there is currently a museum or gallery for every kind of cultural interest. These are some of the most interesting and unique museums and galleries in the world. They range from modern wine museums, where you can have a great drink, to modern art galleries, where the strange and wonderful meet.
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, Madrid
The Reina Sofía is home to Picasso’s Guernica
The Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofa, along with the Museo Del Prado and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, completes Madrid's famed Golden Triangle of Art. This modern art museum is in a building that used to be a hospital. It has a beautiful collection of works by 20th-century Spanish artists like Pablo Picasso and Joan Miró.
Picasso's Guernica, a depiction of Hitler's air forces destroying the Basque village of Guernica, is undeniably the museum's most prized piece. This monumental black-and-white artwork is one of the most potent anti-war works ever created.
The remainder of the museum's collection is equally impressive. Explore chambers containing works by Surrealist maestro Salvador Dalí that will test your imagination and meet face-to-face with the major opuses of the avant-garde. The café of the luxurious Hotel Paseo del Arte overlooks the Reina Sofía.
The National Gallery, London
With almost 2,300 artworks, the London National Gallery is a paradise for art enthusiasts.
Fans of art will love the museum's huge collection of paintings and sculptures from more than 700 years ago.
Over 2,300 paintings are on display, including Van Eyck's Arnolfini Portrait, Turner's The Fighting Temeraire, and Vermeer's Lady Standing at a Virginal. It is also one of the few spots in the world where you can view Van Gogh's Sunflowers, which he painted during his troubled final years in the southern French city of Arles.
From the Impressionists to the contemporary masters, a vast assortment of artworks from many artistic eras are displayed here. And every single space will be aesthetically pleasing. Fortunately, the National Gallery provides daily guided tours of the museum's attractions for those who have difficulty distinguishing between Manet and Monet. The gallery's exceptional position in Trafalgar Square places London within easy reach. The Londoner features an indoor pool and contemporary accommodations.
The quaint town of Lake Louise serves as the entrance to the magnificent Canadian Rockies. This hamlet on the banks of the Bow River in Banff National Park's immense woodland wilderness is named after one of the numerous local glacier lakes. The turquoise-colored water is surrounded by snow-covered hills and sloped spruce trees, which make a natural stage for the beauty of the area.
With over 1,600 kilometers of trails that offer breathtaking views, Lake Louise is the hiking capital of Canada. There are flat trails that loop around the pristine Moraine Lake, as well as trails with modest inclines that lead to Lake Agnes and its quaint teahouse. Those who choose the difficult Saddleback Pass are rewarded with breathtaking views of Mount Temple and Paradise Valley in widescreen.
The spectacular Valley of the Ten Peaks, a crisscrossing curtain of 3,000-meter-high peaks, will be the main attraction for photographers. Everyone travels to Lake Louise Ski Resort in the winter to snowboard, ski, and après-ski away the cold. There are many great places to stay in Lake Louise, from grand hotels to lodges to log cottages.
For those who enjoy a good spin, here's a list of cycle-friendly cities.
Kyoto, Japan
Copenhagen, Denmark
In Copenhagen, the number of bikes officially surpassed the number of vehicles a few years ago. This is hardly surprising given the city's infrastructure, which includes bike lanes isolated from car traffic, traffic lights timed according to average cycling speed, and a network of Cycle Superhighways specifically created for commuters. Whether you're there to ride one of the world's oldest roller coasters at Tivoli Gardens, confront local counter culture in Christiania, or simply have a beer or a coffee by the seaside in Nyhavn, try it out for yourself by touring the city by bike. If you still have energy for a final sprint, visit the Crowne Plaza Copenhagen Towers' eco-friendly gym.
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
The truth is we often overthink our vacations. If you are a family, then there’s that extra layer of planning that comes with any trip we want to take—heck, even going to the store can seem like a massive undertaking.
But we can also allow ourselves a bit more freedom and an extra dose of spontaneity. With a little creativity, we can find escapes and create vacation moments, even if just for one day.
Here are some ideas for getaways that can reinvigorate your mind and soul.
Visit a state park or national forest
A lot of vacationers are planning bigger trips to larger national parks, which require a lot more planning than most people think. Sadly, it also means many of the national parks can be overcrowded and booked. Instead of adding to the tourist numbers and the strain on natural resources, plan a visit to a state park. State parks vary in what each has to offer, but there’s usually a lot of beautiful landscapes to take in, endless opportunities to enjoy nature, and some even allow for overnight camping. Buttermilk Falls, Ithaca, NY Road trip to a small or rural town off-season.
Many small towns and rural areas are bustling during the summer and early fall months. But winter and late fall months tend to be a much quieter scene. Plan a visit off-season and prepare to take on some cold-weather activities often enjoyed by locals, such as snowshoeing or ice skating. This is also a better time to find great lodging prices.
Book a hotel in the city on a weekday. If you live in the suburbs or outside of the city center, book a hotel in the city in the middle of the week. This is when the hotels are least crowded and offer better prices. Even if the stay is not that far from home, staying somewhere where you can get room service, a massage, or just don’t have to worry about making the beds, can feel like a wonderful retreat from everyday life.
Noah’s Ark, Wisconsin Dells, WI
At the country's largest waterpark, the world's largest King Cobra rollercoaster, Black Anaconda, offers thrill-seekers a run for their money.
Noah's Ark features 70 acres of rides and slides, making it the largest waterpark in the United States. This gigantic waterpark, which stands out even in the Waterpark Capital of the World®—Wisconsin Dells, features everything from a 4-D "Dive-in" movie theater to a looping waterslide. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the Black Anaconda, awarded America's Most Thrilling Water Coaster, while families will appreciate Noah's Ark's commitment to aquatic safety, which has been recognized year since 1995. Allow the fun to continue beyond Noah's Ark. Grand Marquis Waterpark Hotel & Suites is located less than two kilometers down the road. With more outdoor and indoor pools to select from, this Wisconsin Dells resort will never run out of possibilities to create lasting memories.
Kalahari Resort Pocono, Poconos Mountains, PA
At the nation's largest indoor waterpark, it's always summer.
The Kalahari Resort Pocono indoor waterpark, which is kept at 84° for 364 days a year, is the ideal place to escape the rain, snow, or everything in between. This resort, which is the largest indoor waterpark in the United States, offers much more than just water slides. Explore the world in a new manner with underwater virtual reality, or unwind at the spa following an action-packed day. This waterpark, located near excellent hiking in the Poconos Mountains, is ideal for anyone who does not want to choose between roughing it and resorting. Mountain Springs Lake Resort is the best spot to stay if you want to reconnect with nature following your waterpark excursion. Its cosy cabin vibe combined with the breathtaking vistas of the Poconos will ensure a relaxed evening. Alternatively, if the children are still brimming with vitality, take advantage of the on-site beach and hiking trails during the summer months, or hit the ski slopes during the winter.
Aquatica, Orlando, Florida
At this special-needs-friendly waterpark, there is something for everyone.
If you're traveling to Orlando, you're undoubtedly already on the lookout for family entertainment. When the Florida heat becomes unbearable, swap the sun for some waves at Aquatica. Zoom past dolphins on underwater slides, choose your own level of adrenaline at two distinct wave pools, or simply rest in a private cabana. Aquatica is a certified autistic center that offers a ride accessibility program, low sensory sections, silent rooms, and specialist personnel trained to assist all children, including those with special needs. Relax at Bluegreen Vacations The Fountains Resort after a day of fun in the sun. This resort, located within an eight-minute drive from Aquatica, features stunning lake views, soothing amenities, and a variety of suite options, including an in-room kitchenette.
At an idyllic villa on the island of Santorini, immerse yourself completely in Greek island life. You can swim in a cobalt-blue sea, drive through tranquil whitewashed villages in search of your morning Spanakopita (spinach and feta pastry), and sunbathe in blazing sunshine when it's safe to do so. Your only issue will be determining the optimal vantage point from which to take in the island's dreamlike panoramas.
Continue reading to learn about Santorini's most popular flexible holiday houses, as assessed by global travelers.
Anemi House & Villas
The infinitely-instagrammable colour palette of Anemi House & Villas
A traditional Santorini cave house painted pink, lilac, and blue, Anemi House & Villas is as photogenic as the caldera itself. The layout of the house resembles a labyrinthine maze, featuring gray stone staircases and secluded terrace areas interspersed with a plunge pool. Shaded by olive and palm trees beside overflowing flower pots, you’ll have a wide choice of places to enjoy a glass of wine in the evening sun. The house has everything you could ever want on vacation: An attentive but unobtrusive owner, Dimitris; beautiful monochrome suites varying from bright white to royal blue and hot pink; 360-degree views of the island from the rooftop; outdoor hot tubs; and lots of local markets.
Ikia Kriton
Have a glass of wine with a surreal Aegean Sea backdrop at Ikia Kriton. This historic stone house is perched on the cliffs above Santorini's caldera, a crater that was partially buried by the Aegean Sea following a volcanic eruption some 3,600 years ago. Views out onto this half-moon-shaped bay are widely sought after, and each year, hundreds of thousands of travelers flock here to see beautiful sunsets over whitewashed cottages, a sapphire blue sea, and maroon cliffs. The unobstructed view of the island from the expansive terrace of this property is a priceless asset and a lovely setting for an early morning coffee or a nightcap provided to you by welcome hosts Kriton and Eirini, a mother-and-son duo.
Azalea Houses
Azalea is an 18th-century winemaker's house with peach-coloured brick walls
Azalea Houses is an original and traditional Greek restoration of an 18th-century winemaker's house with mud-brick walls. Simultaneously, it is the pinnacle of luxury with a minimalist look. The curving, peach-colored exterior contrasts magnificently with the blue of the sea and sky. Take a stroll to the nearby and renowned picturesque village of Oia, or retreat to a hidden area of the terrace to read a book in a hammock shaded by fuchsia flowers.
The Hoxton, Downtown LA
Beverly Hills Marriott
The Beverly Hills Marriott, conveniently located only ten miles from the SoFi Stadium, provides football fans large, spacious suites with expansive views of Los Angeles to nap in after the big game. The décor is reminiscent of Hollywood grandeur, with dark wood furnishings, luxurious leather, marble, spa-like bathrooms in neutral shades of silver and beige, and wall art inspired by Los Angeles. The hotel is also within walking distance of several of Los Angeles's biggest sites, so take a stroll to the Hollywood Walk of Fame or Rodeo Drive before returning to the sleek outdoor pool surrounded by towering palm trees for an afternoon.
Miami Beach, Florida
Soak up the sun by the swimming pool in Miami Beach. A babymoon should be all about letting go. Despite its party scene, Miami Beach is a surprisingly zen destination. Try the fresh and breezy rooms of 1 Hotel South Beach, where you can spend hours by one of their four swimming pools. Lay back on a lounge chair, sip a refreshing beverage, and take in the hotel’s jaw-dropping sea views. It’s also just a short drive away from glamorous shopping and dining locations if you decide to venture out during your stay.
Albufeira, Portugal
Enjoy warm temperatures and sandy beaches in Albufeira. It’s a good idea to try to do as little as possible leading up to your new arrival, so leisurely soaking up the sun fits the bill for many new parents to be. The city of Albufeira in the Algarve region in Portugal is a haven for sunseekers. All year, travelers can enjoy warm temperatures, sandy beaches, wild coastlines, and top-notch food. Enjoy a sunny stay at Sao Rafael Villas, Apartments & Guest House, featuring sleek design touches and located just a short walk from the beach. The rooms in the guest house offer a communal outdoor pool, but the luxury villas feature private pools for those who want a little more seclusion.
Gold Coast, Australia
Stroll along the beach all day in Australia's Gold Coast. The beach is not only a prime location to spend the day relaxing, reading, and swimming, but it’s also great for refreshing walks. The Gold Coast boasts 43 miles of some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, so you can stroll all day with the sand between your toes without even leaving the city. Wake up and take in the ocean views from Vue Broadbeach, a contemporary hotel located right on the shore. The property also has an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace, and barbecue facilities. And thanks to its central location, you can easily explore the area on foot.
More travel Inspiration here.
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso, Mexico
Facing the Sea of Cortez, this palatial hotel provides private hot tubs and infinity pools bordered by cacti
Las Ventanas Al Paraiso is a palatial hotel set in the Los Cabos region at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, right on a beach of powder-fine white sand. Each suite is decked out in Mexican artisanry like mosaiced headboards and carved cedar wood screens. Feast on a Mexican breakfast spread on your private garden terrace, visit the state-of-the-art spa and be spoiled by the flawless service, with staff bringing you iced water, fresh fruit and other treats at any hour of the day.
Vantage Over Byron, Australia
Watch the sunset in Byron Bay, with 360-degree views of the volcanic hinterland, rainforest and ocean
In the sun trap surf town of Byron Bay, the long, broad beach is lapped by royal blue, white-tipped waves and has a lighthouse on one end that marks Australia’s easternmost tip. The area's natural beauty and laid-back vibe are fiercely protected by strict rules against any high-rise buildings, so the fact that this villa’s rooftop infinity pool seems to tower over the treetops and neighboring houses makes it a rare find. Wraparound wooden decking provides 360-degree views of the rainforest and volcanic hinterland in one direction and the curved, golden bay—which is only a few minutes’ walk away—in the other. Watch the sunset with a cocktail while reclining on a poolside cabana before enjoying some of the best stargazing in the southern hemisphere.
Chobe Water Villas, Namibia
Each villa has a private sundeck built above the water on the banks of the Chobe River. At Chobe Water Villas, the teal-colored infinity pool blends so seamlessly into the scenery that it's hard to tell where it ends and Namibia’s Chobe River begins. The individual villas exude a luxury that seems surreal given the remoteness of the property; private sundecks above the water even have their own telescope so that you can watch the elephants, buffalo and other wildlife roam the plains. Beyond the villas, you can go on game drives into the Chobe National Park, where you’ll likely spot hippos, crocodiles and exotic birdlife, too.
Tulum is the site of a pre-Columbian Mayan walled city that served as a major port for Coba, in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. The ruins are situated on 12-meter (39 ft) tall cliffs along the east coast of the Yucatán Peninsula on the Caribbean Sea in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. Tulum was one of the last cities built and inhabited by the Maya; it was at its height between the 13th and 15th centuries and managed to survive about 70 years after the Spanish began occupying Mexico. Old World diseases brought by the Spanish settlers appear to have resulted in very high fatalities, disrupting society and eventually causing the city to be abandoned. citation needed One of the best-preserved coastal Maya sites, Tulum is today a popular site for tourists.
Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
The Fairy Pools look as magical as they sound
The Fairy Pools form a collection of ice-blue waters and tumbling rapids that look like something straight out of Scottish folklore. Amid the Isle of Skye's emerald knolls (hills) and towering glens (valleys), these ponds can be reached via a trek along the River Brittle. The water temperature may be breathlessly cold but it's also endlessly enticing and refreshing to swim beneath rocky cliffs and under hidden arches shrouded by waterfalls. Clamber up onto the surrounding rocks to dry off in the sun before a drive home to the wooden cabins of Skeabost View Pods Skye.
Lower Ddwili Falls, Brecon Beacons
The Lower Ddwili Falls is hidden in the woods of Pontneddfechan
Hidden in Wales' bucolic Waterfall Country beneath the hulking red sandstone peaks of the Brecon Beacons, you'll find the Lower Ddwili Falls. An open pool crested by gushing waterfalls, this place is a real spectacle. You can reach it via a walk through the woods from the villages of Pontneddfechan or Pont Melin-Fach. On sunny days, the waterfall mist leaves rainbow trails overhead. Spend the night at the 18th-century farmhouse, Beili Helyg Guest House, just a short drive away.
Blue Lagoon, Pembrokeshire
True to its name, the Blue Lagoon is a gorgeous sheen of turquoise
On the Pembrokeshire shoreline near Abereiddy, there's a quarry filled with turquoise water that's known locally as the Blue Lagoon. At 25 meters deep, this shimmering plunge pool is primed for diving enthusiasts, having hosted a global cliff-diving competition. For a dose of adrenaline, the old quarry building serves as a great platform to jump from, though a languid swim through the silky waters is just as good. The lagoon is reached via the Pembrokeshire Coast Path—stay at Caerhys B&B, which is just half a kilometer away from the coastal trail.
Linhope Spout Waterfall, Northumberland
Dive into this surreal Northumberland pool before a picnic beside it
You’ll know when you’ve reached Linhope Spout Waterfall when you hear its long plume of water crashing down into the plunge pool and onto the rocks below. It's as spectacular a backdrop for wild swimming as it is for a picnic, with the waterfall being 18 meters high and slicing straight down through a quiet glade. You may be sharing your serene swimming spot with the local red squirrel, often spotted scurrying across the forest floor in search of fallen pine cones. Complete your day out with a night at the equally pretty Tankerville Arms in the nearby village of Eglingham.
Llyn Glaslyn, Snowdonia
Lyln Glaslyn has a long-standing association with Arthurian legend
The lake of Llyn Glaslyn is shaped like a heart and cradled by mountains and has long been the subject of Arthurian legend. Folklore suggests that King Arthur had Sir Bedivere hurl his sword Excalibur into the water here, with Arthur’s body later placed in a boat to be carried away to Avalon. Glaslyn is also the alleged resting place of a water monster that once wreaked havoc upon the people of the valley. These days it’s more sun and scenery than swords and sea creatures, with deep blue waters and mountains that are often thinly veiled in mist. The lake can be reached by walking Snowdonia's Miners' Track. Keep your outdoor adventure going with a stay at one of these wooden camping pods.
So for a holiday that makes the most of off-peak accommodation rates and fewer tourists, we’ve lined up five destinations that are at their most glorious before summer arrives.
Death Valley National Park, California
The floor of Death Valley coming into bloom with Desert gold Wildflowers, California
Seville, Spain
Traditionally dressed revellers during the Seville Fair
Spring in Seville not only brings sunshine and pleasant temperatures but also several Easter celebrations. Semana Santa (Holy Week) runs from early to mid-April and is one of Spain’s biggest festivals, involving a procession of flamboyant floats. The following week, another grand event—the Seville Fair—kicks off. Hundreds of tents are set up and locals and tourists gather to feast and admire the parade of traditional horses, carriages and people dressed in traditional Sevillian attire. Stay at Hotel Gravina 51, a restored 18th-century manor house in the centre of Seville featuring suites with brocade wallpaper and a beautiful courtyard.
Lviv is a hidden pearl of Europe, which is slowly being discovered by the world. Even experienced travelers say that for them, Lviv is one of the most unexpected discoveries.
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