According to the latest 2022 Travel Trends Report by award-winning hospitality management software developer, Cloudbeds, destinations with plenty of outdoor offerings is a trend set to continue into 2022 with 30% of travellers saying they prefer outdoor and small-town destinations more now compared to before the pandemic.
Here’s a round-up of some of the best small towns and remote parts of the world to unwind and enjoy a peaceful holiday.
The Best Remote Destinations Immersed in Nature in the USA
Granby, Colorado
A small mountain town in Colorado, Granby has just over 2,000 residents and is praised for its friendly atmosphere and close proximity to Denver. Surrounded by Rocky Mountains National Park, Granby really lives up to its motto of ‘being something truly grand.’ Brimming with outdoor activities in the spring, travellers can breathe in the fresh air with hiking, camping, mountain biking, horseback riding or boating.
Nestled in Granby, C Lazy U Ranch is a luxurious dude ranch offering an upmarket yet authentic wild western experience. An all-inclusive resort, guests can enjoy incredible views of the Continental Divide mountain range in complete peace and tranquillity whilst switching off from the rest of the world.
Alpine Lakes High Camp, Seattle, Washington
Just a short ride from Seattle, two hours to be precise, sits Alpine Lakes High Camp in Leavenworth. A remote area alongside the Alpine Lake Wilderness area, Alpine Lakes High Camp includes nine A-frames and cosy cabins along with private forests which are perfect for travellers who crave seclusion and untouched territory. In the warmer months, expect empty hiking trails, a wood-fired hot tub and intimate moments with nature.
La Jolla, San Diego, California
The southern California city of San Diego is known for its laid back atmosphere, beautiful coastline and incredible Mexican cuisine. Travellers looking to enjoy a slow pace of life should visit the La Jolla neighbourhood in the north of the city.
Boasting numerous beaches, picturesque coves and Torrey Pines State Nature Reserve – a peaceful park set atop a cliff, with views of the Pacific Ocean – La Jolla is a great spot for a remote holiday. Visitors can stay at the La Jolla Shores Hotel; with each of the rooms offering coast or garden views, guests feel as though they are a million miles away from anyone else. Rooms from $339 per night.
St. Helena, California
Nicknamed “Napa Valley’s Main Street,” the downtown area of the charming wine-country town of St. Helena brims with lovely little shops, art galleries, and cafés set in historic buildings. It’s all nicely walkable within its primary half-mile-long core, so visitors can browse gourmet shops, fashion boutiques, and candy stores of this picturesque small town.
Downtown St. Helena is ringed with wineries, such as the iconic Merryvale Vineyards, which was the first winery in the valley to open after the repeal of Prohibition in 1933. The perfect place to stay in St. Helena is Auberge du Soleil hotel; with breathtaking views, it is the dream of French restaurateur, Claude Rouas. Nestled within a terraced, sun-kissed hillside amid 33-acres of heritage olive and oak trees, the hotel’s 50 contemporary guest rooms and suites make a perfect location for a peaceful stay away from the crowds. Rooms for £1,136 per night.
