We don’t blame you if you’re looking for a place to unwind after the last two years.
OVO Network’s travel experts have compiled a list of Europe’s most tranquil holiday destinations to help you plan your next relaxing getaway. There’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a small town by the sea, rolling countryside, or mountain views.
OVO has compiled a list of the top ten peaceful places in Europe using data from Google Maps, local air pollution statistics, and population density.
It has even compiled all of this data into some useful infographics, allowing you to compare each destination based on the factors that are most important to you, such as the number of local spas or the number of people who live there.
Here are the top three tranquil spots in Europe to get you in the mood for some inner peace.
3. Hvar, Croatia
Because of its charming seafront location and small population, this small but perfectly formed Croatian island made it into the top three. According to the study, it also has the best hotel access in Europe.
If you’re planning a trip to this Adriatic paradise, stay in Hvar town to take advantage of everything the island has to offer, such as glamorous nightclubs and wineries where you can sample local Dalmatian wines. If you’re staying on Hvar in late spring or early summer, make a point of visiting the island’s famous lavender fields when they’re in full bloom.
This Mediterranean hotspot, Croatia’s sunniest island, is also a great place to hire a boat and explore some of the more secluded and inaccessible beaches along Hvar’s coast.
Check here for prices and availability for the best hotels in Hvar!
2. Gruyeres, Switzerland
If you enjoy cheese, the Swiss mountain town of Gruyeres is the place to be. This medieval town, which is ranked second due to its collection of peaceful spas, also has some of the cleanest air in Europe, thanks to the snow-capped mountains that surround it.
Gruyeres, as expected, has a plethora of cheese options. So, whether you like your cheese fondued, melted over macaroni, or served in a soup (soup de chalet, made from Swiss cheese and potatoes, is a local specialty), there are plenty of cheesy options available.
The town, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is completely pedestrianized and has a 13th century castle. If you’re looking for something a little different, there’s also a museum decorated by H R Giger, the artist best known for his work on the Aliens trilogy.
1. Zahara de la Sierra, Spain
This town in southern Spain strolls into first place, with breathtaking views and a small population. Zahara de la Sierra, located in a rugged mountainous region, overlooks a valley and a lake. It’s also close to a number of luxury spas and is less well-known online, so you’ll be able to avoid the usual tourist crowds.
This town in southern Spain strolls into first place, with breathtaking views and a small population. Zahara de la Sierra, located in a rugged mountainous region, overlooks a valley and a lake. It’s also close to a number of luxury spas and is less well-known online, so you’ll be able to avoid the usual tourist crowds.
The town, which is located in the province of Cadiz in Andalucia, is a lovely mix of churches, souvenir shops, and bars, many of which overlook the scenery below.
A 14th-century castle and a man-made beach are available for exploration. If you enjoy watersports, you can rent a kayak or simply sit on the beach and watch the world go by while eating Tortillitas de camarones (prawn fritters), one of Cadiz’s traditional dishes.
On OVO’s chart, you can see the rest of the top ten based on your preferences.
