Silent travel encompasses a range of experiences, from silent retreats and digital detox cabins to silent walking tours. This type of travel helps us disconnect from our daily lives and reconnect with nature, our true priorities, and ourselves. It offers a mindful way to travel that leaves you rejuvenated rather than exhausted. Silent travel benefits not only our well-being but also the planet, promoting a more sustainable form of tourism. « Natural quiet is an essential quality that both humans and wildlife need. » It’s about tuning into the sounds around you, especially those of nature. Here are some of the best destinations for silent travel.
Highland Base at Kerlingarfjöll, Iceland
For an experience in a remote natural landscape, we recommend Highland Base, Kerlingarfjöll in Iceland. Located about three hours from Reykjavik, the base is accessible only via a 4×4 super jeep driven by a professional during the winter months. « Full of adventure—from the journey to the experiences while there—Highland Base Kerlingarfjöll is unmatched for those looking to explore the remote central highlands of Iceland, » says Grímur Sæmundsen, founder and CEO of Blue Lagoon Iceland. Total disconnection and silence are guaranteed for your clients.
Peace & Quiet Hotel, Swedish Lapland
For those who prefer a tranquil resort, the Peace & Quiet Hotel in Swedish Lapland is an excellent choice. This serene hotel provides an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the pristine nature of Lapland. Located in the heart of the Laponian area, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the hotel offers unparalleled silence and natural beauty. Guests can enjoy activities like snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and observing the Northern Lights in winter, or hiking and bird watching in summer. The minimalist design of the hotel, combined with its remote location, ensures a peaceful and rejuvenating stay.
Forest Bathing in Japan
Silent walking tours can be a transformative experience, and we highly recommend trying forest bathing, or shinrin-yoku, in Japan. This practice, which involves simply spending time in nature, is a vital part of preventive healthcare in Japan, known for its stress-reducing and revitalizing benefits.
Senjogahara, Nikko Located in Nikko, a two-hour train ride from Tokyo, Senjogahara offers an ideal setting for forest bathing. The Nikko Toshogu Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the vibrant autumn leaves make it a popular destination. Senjogahara is situated in Nikko National Park, home to over 350 types of native plants and many wild birds. The marshland trail is easy and takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to complete. The vastness and tranquility of the marshlands starkly contrast with city life, offering a surreal experience.
Best times to visit:
- Mid-June to mid-August for blooming cotton plants, azaleas, and Japanese meadowsweet flowers.
- Late September to early October for the red-hued marsh.
- Winter for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing and forest bathing in a snow-covered landscape.
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Silent travel can also mean spending a few days without your phone, allowing for a complete digital detox and a true reconnection with yourself and your surroundings. By embracing silent travel, we can find peace and rejuvenation while supporting sustainable tourism practices. Whether it’s the remote landscapes of Iceland, the tranquil resorts of Swedish Lapland, or the serene trails of Japan, there is a silent travel experience for everyone seeking a deeper connection with nature and themselves.