One of the fastest-growing sectors of the hospitality industry is disconnected holidays and for a good reason. The fast-paced world is making more and more people want to escape, heading to places where they can switch off, rediscover what’s truly important in life and, while doing so, improve their mental health.
Holidays are meant to be a way to relax away from the everyday stresses of life. This can be anything from the stressors of work and family life to social media’s influence on your mental health. However, 68% of people continue to work while on holiday, and most people spend an average of three hours or more on their phones. It makes relaxing incredibly difficult, and you might not benefit from the true stress relief a holiday should give you. However, a disconnected holiday could be the answer.
What is a disconnected holiday?
A disconnected holiday is a rest away from technology as part of a digital detox. There are multiple reasons you might consider this, including boosting mental well-being, connecting with friends, family, and nature, as well as allowing you to truly experience all a holiday has to offer without the interruption of a phone screen.
Disconnected holidays don’t have access to the internet or signal and have multiple technology-less activities which involve exploring the local area and nature, allowing you to avoid the temptation of using your devices. So, pack those luxury bikinis and bestsellers you’ve been dying to read for a holiday full of rest, relaxation, and technology rejection.
Some places to visit
Italy
According to European Best Destinations, Monte Isla is the perfect place for a digital detox. Situated by Lake Iseo, this is one of the best places to disconnect from your daily life and enjoy a moment of relaxation. Not only can you get away from your daily technology use here as you don your swimsuits and dive into the waters, but also cars are banned from driving here, giving you complete peace of body and mind.
Portugal
Portugal has many locations where you can switch off your mobile phone and laptop and step into nature. From thermal waters to volcanic eruption sites and waterfalls, Portugal has it all to distract you away from the screen.
Cascata da Ribeira do Ferreiro boasts beautiful views and walks, connecting you with nature from the rolling green hills to the flowing waterfalls. And why not distract yourself away from social media with the flavours of the countryside? Honey, flavoured by the range of wildflowers, and jams made from the guava tree are not to be missed.
The Faial Island in Portugal is another option for those adventurous walkers and family detox moments. With a beautiful botanic garden and incredible views, you cannot get bored of this location. Or even dip your toes in thermal waters by visiting Parque Terra Nostra. Allow these natural mineral waters to wash away your stress.
Austria
Or, if you are looking for a more secluded, enclosed space, Landlust in Austria offers a range of cottages for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Free from technology, you can close your mind off to the pressures of the outside world and enjoy an evening eating on the terrace, morning sunshine walks among flora, or admire the views from your bedroom window.
Unwind away from the city in one of these comfortable, rural homes and spend some time exploring. This retreat even offers a card that allows you access to recreational activities and sports to help you move away from your daily life and back into healthier habits.
Whatever you are looking for, whether it is a large body of water, acres of trees, or even just a cabin in the middle of nowhere, Europe has some of the top destinations to help you detach from your technology and enjoy the beauty of nature. Rest and rejuvenate away from blue light and social influencers. Experience fresh air and reconnect with the environment, your peers, and yourself.
Read more travel news, guides and reviews here.