Europe’s 11 best destinations for unwinding

Have you heard of digital detox? Zoom in on the 11 best destinations in Europe to recharge your batteries away from the digital world.

You’re hyper-connected, whether at work or in your personal life. You’re connected to your phone or computer at all times of the day: when you work, when you eat and even when you rest! Maybe it’s time to take a break and fly off for a few days of digital detox! The idea is to escape to an isolated destination where the network is virtually non-existent. A destination where you can relax in total peace and quiet without being disturbed by your constantly vibrating phone.

Discover remote destinations that will allow you to get closer to nature and forget about social networks for several hours. Here are our 11 favorite destinations in Europe for total disconnection!

1.Nin, Croatia

Nin is the oldest royal town in Croatia. It’s the perfect European destination for a break from the big cities. Nin is located north of Zadar in Croatia. It is marked by its eventful past, as evidenced by its many historical and cultural monuments. In fact, this is where you’ll find the world’s smallest church. As well as its history, you’ll love its natural beauty. You’ll have plenty of time to unwind on the magnificent sandy beaches that line the bay!

2.zermatt, switzerland

A car-free village, luxurious chalets with relaxing spas, breathtaking scenery – this is the recipe for a complete break from everyday life! For 150 years, the village of Zermatt, at the foot of the Matterhorn, has fascinated mountaineers and mountain lovers alike. This legendary resort in the canton of Valais is the highest in Switzerland. What better way to recharge your batteries than aboard the Gornergrat Bahn, a cogwheel train that takes you to an altitude of over 3,100 metres! Sports enthusiasts can enjoy climbing, paragliding and mountain biking in summer. These activities will allow you to get away from it all for a few days.

3.Durbuy, Belgium

Considered the smallest town in the world, Durbuy is probably the most beautiful destination in Wallonia. The village boasts a historic heart with an enchanting charm. It also offers a thousand and one leisure activities for a vacation that’s all about nature and culture. Come and play golf, taste the local cuisine, visit the old town, or try to find your way through the famous labyrinth. A visit to Durbuy is an opportunity to detox from social networks, reconnect with nature and rediscover yourself.

4. Jūrmala, Latvia

What better way to recharge your batteries than lounging in the popular spas of Jūrmala in Latvia? This green seaside resort, rich in natural resources, is the ideal place for total disconnection. You’ll love its maritime climate, pine forests, mineral waters and white sand dunes. Take advantage of your stay to walk or cycle along the coast and listen to the rustle of the waves. You’ll marvel at the historic charm of the city center streets, and appreciate the friendliness of the Latvian people.

5.island of Faial, Azores, Portugal

Faial is a volcanic island in theAzores archipelago. It’s one of Europe’s top destinations for starting a digital detox with family, friends or even solo. It’s nicknamed the « blue island » because of the multitude of hydrangeas that bloom here in summer. It offers visitors an eclectic and breathtaking landscape. Take advantage of the botanical gardens, hike in the Caldeira nature reserve and stroll around Horta’s marina – you’ll be totally unplugged!

6.Wild Taiga, Finland

Looking for the perfect destination for a full week of digital detox in the great outdoors? Wild Taiga is the place for you! Trade in your cell phone for a pair of binoculars. Discover coniferous forests and crystal-clear rivers. This region offers unique experiences in every season. You’ll discover snow-covered winter landscapes, springs marked by the spectacular awakening of wildlife, lush summers and colorful autumns. You’ll experience unforgettable moments in the heart of one of Europe’s most beautiful regions.

7.goierri, Spain

The Spanish Basque Country is a unique destination that leaves no one indifferent. Head for the county of Goierri for an authentic gourmet vacation. As the birthplace of Idiazabal cheese, you’ll have the chance to meet traditional Idiazabal producers. You’ll also have the chance to taste their products while admiring the beautiful landscapes that surround you. Disconnect from your daily routine and breathe deeply the pure air of this unspoilt region. Experience a unique moment in Goierri County.

8.Soomaa, Estonia

There’s no better place in Europe to detox from social networking than Soomaa! You’ll be immersed in nature in one of Europe’s most beautiful national parks, whose aim is to protect intact peat bogs, biologically diverse clearings, wooded meadows and diverse forests. You won’t have time to get bored. Choose from bird- and deer-watching hikes, canoe trips and skating tours on the frozen lakes. In Soomaa, there’s no reason to use your phone! Except perhaps to take photos of the flora and fauna around you.

9. Arz Island, France

Set sail for Arz Island and cut the bridges both literally and figuratively! A veritable haven of peace in the heart of the Gulf of Morbihan, Ile d’Arz is an island with character. It is blessed with a jagged coastline. This protects numerous coves with crystal-clear waters ideal for swimming, and offers incomparable panoramic views of the Golfe du Morbihan. Get on a bike to discover the island and experience its gentle way of life. Ile d’Arz is an invitation to plenitude and serenity: an ideal destination to forget your everyday life!

10. Skagafjordur, Iceland

Discover the wilderness and treat yourself to a truly relaxing week away from your usual worries. The Skagafjordur fjord in northernIceland is a land of adventure for everyone! Skagafjordur offers visitors the chance to enjoy all kinds of activities in an exceptional setting. You can go white-water rafting on glacial rivers or skiing on the snow-capped mountains of the Tröllaskagi peninsula. You can choose to go horseback riding or sail to the majestic island of Drangey. In winter, you’ll love relaxing in the hot springs while admiring the magic of the northern lights.

11.Monte Isola, Italy

If you’re looking for a break from the daily grind, Monte Isola is the place to be. It’s a digital detox paradise. Monte Isola is a green mountain that emerges in the center of Lake Iseo, in northern Italy. The island covers some 450 hectares. It’s a true Italian gem. With its breathtaking scenery, sporting, gastronomic and cultural activities, you’ll forget all about social networking. Cars are forbidden. Only locals are allowed to ride motorcycles. You can, however, take a bus or bike to explore the 9.4-kilometer island.