Visiting a new country and admiring its natural beauty is one way to make a vacation unforgettable. More travelers are looking to connect with nature in 2023 and are considering digital detox experiences. One of the best ways to do it while exploring a new destination is by visiting national parks.
The are amazing national parks in the United States, and Europe also has impressive biodiversity and fantastic hikes for those interested in mindfulness and taking a break from social media and high-internet speed.
According to a survey performed by Money.co.uk and shared on Euro News, these are Europe’s best national parks:
5) Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
This impressive 295-sq.-km forest reserve is located in central Croatia, the Bosnian-Herzegovina border, and has spectacular lakes connected by waterfalls, and peculiar caves that can easily amaze visitors. The turquoise water changes color depending on the minerals and the time of the day.
Croatia’s largest National park is also home to bears, wolves, and different bird species. The lake system and its impressive landscapes make it a must-visit park in Europe. The Plitvice Lakes park was included on UNESCO World Natural Heritage List in 1979.
This park can be visited at any time of the year. Travelers must bear in mind that it is prohibited to swim in the lakes —even during hot summer days— and it can get crowded during peak season. Now that Croatia was included in the Schengen zone and is becoming a very popular destination in Europe, travelers can include this park on their must-visit list.
4) Lake District, United Kingdom
One of the best places for a digital detox in England is the Lake District, already considered by millions of brits as a great natural environment to decompress. It’s popular for its glacial ribbon lakes and great activities. Visitors are allowed to swim in the lake and can also rent boats, ride bikes on cycling routes—travelers can rent bikes on site—, just go for a walk or participate in stargazing activities at night.
This park, in the administrative county of Cumbria, is open to the public at all times and there are numerous events and guided tours. Lake District has an official website with relevant information for travelers and great tips to make the most out of your visit.
3) Cinque Terre National Park, Italy
This beautiful coastal region in Italy is known for its fresh and delicious seafood, and fascinating unique villages. Cinque Terre National Park is located in northern Italy, in in the province of La Spezia, Liguria, and is home to gorgeous landscapes and popular towns.
This is one of Italy’s smallest parks, and the government has been promoting sustainable tourism at this location. Travelers can visit organic farms, admire local flora and fauna, and connect with local customs and the local community. Cinque Terre National Park was considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.
2) Göreme National Park, Turkey
The popular image of the sky crowded with hot-air balloons takes place at this wonderful park. The Göreme National Park has an impressive landscape sculpted by erosion over an extinct volcanoes area that extends to 39 square miles.
Travelers can explore its beautiful valleys, and admire the various rock formations, and historic churches. Its history and beauty made it earn UNESCO World Heritage status: “The incomparable beauty of the decor of the Christian sanctuaries makes Cappadocia one of the leading examples of the post-iconoclastic Byzantine art period.”
1) The Swiss National Park, Switzerland
And finally, the first place goes to the Swiss National Park. This place is home to charming lakes, villages, and the impressive alps. Visitors can admire its spectacular landscapes and also the medieval quarters,
It has been considered one of the best parks for mindfulness in the world since it’s a very protected area with rich biodiversity, low pollution, and great activities to unwind and relax—There are 83 spaces and wellness centers.
