10 Unexpected Restorative Destinations: A Therapist’s Guide to Recharging
Photo by Dorota Dylka
As a licensed mental health therapist and travel advisor, I’ve learned that the best vacations don’t just take you away from the daily grind—they restore your mind, body, and spirit. While many people think of Bali or Hawaii as the ultimate spots for relaxation, there are countless lesser-known destinations that offer incredible opportunities for rejuvenation.
Here are some unexpected places that I often recommend to clients looking for a restorative getaway, where the focus is on healing, mindfulness, and connection with nature.
1. Slovenia – Europe’s Tranquil Secret
Slovenia is one of those hidden gems that offers both physical and mental restoration. The peaceful atmosphere of Lake Bled, with its iconic church on a small island, invites you to slow down and breathe. As a therapist, I always encourage clients to seek out places like Slovenia where the beauty of nature is calming and not crowded with tourists. Here, you can hike, meditate by the water, or simply sit and reflect in one of Europe’s most peaceful settings.
Why I recommend it: Slovenia offers a sense of calm that encourages introspection. Whether you're in the mountains or by the lakes, the stillness invites mindfulness and peace.
Lake Bled, Slovenia by Edoardo Bortoli
2. Salar de Uyuni, Bolivia – A Surreal and Restorative Landscape
The vast salt flats of Salar de Uyuni are a meditative wonderland. Sometimes we need to be surrounded by something otherworldly to reconnect with ourselves. Here, the quiet expanse of the salt flats, which reflect the sky in an almost dreamlike way, is perfect for contemplation, stargazing, or simply being present in the moment.
Why I recommend it: The immense, untouched nature of the salt flats allows for deep reflection and an almost spiritual sense of calm, helping to reset your mind.
3. The Azores, Portugal – Nature’s Retreat
Many of my clients are surprised when I suggest the Azores, but this group of volcanic islands offers unparalleled tranquility. The rolling green hills, volcanic craters, and soothing hot springs create an ideal setting for a restorative vacation. It’s perfect for those looking to slow down and immerse themselves in nature.
Why I recommend it: The Azores are a haven for sustainable tourism, allowing visitors to engage with nature in a mindful and eco-conscious way. The islands’ isolation fosters a quiet environment perfect for introspection.
Azores, Portugal by Ýlona María Rybka
4. Bhutan – A Journey to Inner Peace
As a therapist, I’m always looking for destinations that prioritize mental wellness, and Bhutan does just that. Known for its focus on Gross National Happiness, Bhutan offers serene monasteries, peaceful mountain landscapes, and a deeply spiritual atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with yourself.
Why I recommend it: Bhutan’s commitment to happiness and well-being aligns perfectly with restorative travel. The country’s spiritual roots provide a sense of peace that can’t be found in more commercial destinations.
5. Faroe Islands – Escape to Quiet Isolation
The Faroe Islands, located between Iceland and Norway, are a true escape. The dramatic cliffs and quiet villages create an isolated, tranquil environment, ideal for those looking to truly get away from it all. I often suggest this destination to clients who want to leave the noise and chaos of everyday life behind.
Why I recommend it: The Faroe Islands offer a peaceful, almost untouched natural beauty that helps create space for introspection and mental relaxation.
Faroe Islands by Eric Welch
6. Hokkaido, Japan – Mindfulness in Nature
Hokkaido, with its quiet snow-covered landscapes and natural hot springs, is a perfect place for restorative travel, especially in winter. I recommend this destination for those seeking peace in nature, whether it’s through mindful hiking, soaking in an onsen, or simply enjoying the quiet beauty of the countryside.
Why I recommend it: Hokkaido’s serene environment, combined with its focus on mindfulness through nature and traditional Japanese hot springs, makes it an ideal place for mental and physical restoration.
7. Lofoten Islands, Norway – Finding Solitude in the Arctic
The Lofoten Islands in Norway offer some of the most stunning natural scenery I’ve ever experienced. With dramatic fjords, peaceful fishing villages, and opportunities to see the Northern Lights, this destination is perfect for those who need a break from fast-paced living. The islands’ remoteness allows for uninterrupted relaxation and self-reflection.
Why I recommend it: The Lofoten Islands provide a sense of solitude and peace that few other places can match, offering the perfect setting for deep mental rejuvenation.
Lofoten Islands, Norway by Bingqi Huang
8. Tasmania, Australia – Wilderness for the Soul
If you’re looking for a restorative vacation off the beaten path, Tasmania offers quiet beaches, lush forests, and mountain trails that are perfect for healing through nature. I often recommend this destination to clients who need space to breathe, hike, and reflect in a peaceful, untouched environment.
Why I recommend it: Tasmania’s wild landscapes encourage a slow-paced, nature-focused retreat that allows for both physical and emotional rejuvenation.
9. Isle of Skye, Scotland – Mystical Peace
The Isle of Skye is one of Scotland’s most peaceful and breathtaking destinations. Known for its misty landscapes and rolling hills, it’s a wonderful place for reflection and relaxation. Many clients I’ve recommended it to have returned feeling mentally and emotionally restored.
Why I recommend it: The island’s beauty, combined with its sense of isolation, offers a deeply calming experience for those looking to escape and recharge.
Tasmania, Australia by Ryan Jubber
10. Samaná Peninsula, Dominican Republic – An Eco-Friendly Oasis
While many people associate the Dominican Republic with crowded resorts, the Samaná Peninsula offers a quieter, more natural retreat. With its secluded beaches, waterfalls, and eco-friendly accommodations, it’s perfect for a restorative getaway focused on wellness and relaxation.
Why I recommend it: The peaceful, less commercialized atmosphere of the Samaná Peninsula allows travelers to experience the natural beauty of the Dominican Republic in a way that promotes mindfulness and calm.
Why Restorative Travel Matters
As a mental health therapist, I understand how crucial it is to disconnect from the stressors of everyday life and reconnect with what matters most—our own well-being. These unexpected destinations provide more than just a vacation; they offer a chance to recharge, reflect, and return home with a sense of peace and renewal.
If you’re looking for more than just another vacation, consider visiting one of these hidden gems. Let’s plan a trip that not only takes you away from your daily stress but also restores your mind, body, and soul.
