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In ever walk with nature one receives far more than he seeks.

John Muir

There’s a kind of reset that really only happens in nature. Shifting your travel plans from doing it all to feeling restored can give you the space and time you need to breathe deeply, move intentionally and reconnect with the natural world.

Whether you’re craving dramatic coastlines, ancient forests, or wide-open skies, these five destinations invite you to step outside and into something much bigger than yourself. From wild adventures to peaceful retreats, here’s where to go to become one with nature.


New Zealand: A World Away

New Zealand has long been a dream for active types and nature loves, and with good reason.

Here, snow-capped peaks meet lush rainforests, black-sand beaches and geothermal wonders. You can hike the Tongariro Alpine Crossing one day and soak in natural hot springs the next. Plus, the country’s commitment to conservation and its strong Maori heritage add a deep sense of respect for the land for eco-minded travelers.

You don’t have to be a wild swimmer or seasoned camper to embrace the great outdoors here. Road-tripping the South Island or wine tasting along the coast also puts you right in the heart of New Zealand’s natural beauty. The best way to explore? Slow down, get off the beaten path, and stay somewhere that brings nature to your doorstep.

Where to Stay in New Zealand

Blanket Bay: “Where rugged meets refined” pretty much sums it up for this breathtaking lakeside lodge near Queenstown. Wake up to jaw-dropping mountain views, memorable hiking and biking and just soaking it all in.

Rosewood Cape Kidnappers: Set on a working sheep station overlooking dramatic cliffs and Hawke’s Bay, this luxury retreat offers access to wildlife reserves and coastal trails. Not to mention the rolling hills and ocean views just outside your window.


Namibia: The Soul of Safari

Namibia is a land unlike anywhere else on Earth. Picture otherworldly sand dunes, shipwreck-strewn coastlines, and cast desert plains dotted with wildlife. It’s a place where you can drive for hours and not see another soul (except maybe a giraffe crossing your path).

While You’re taking it all in, don’t miss the Skeleton Coast, Etosha National Park and Sossusvlei. These offer a rare kind of purity and breathtaking scale that can entirely rewire your sense of space.

Where to Stay in Namibia

Zannier Hotels Sonop: A glamorous tented camp that afeels straight out of an old-world safari, nestled in the heart of the Namib Desert.

Hoanib Skeleton Coast Camp: Want a truly surreal experience? This remote, fly-in-only luxury eco-camp is for spotting elephants and lions while you take in the expansive sand dunes and starry skies.


Patagonia: Life on the Edge

In Patagonia, nature is the itinerary. Here you can feel like you’re on the edge of the world and the center of the universe at the same time. Towering granite peaks, wind-swept plains and massive glaciers are all part of the drama. It’s remote, rugged, and humbling in the best way.

Whether you’re trekking in Torres del Paine or exploring by horseback with local gauchos, this is a destination that asks you to lean into the wild.

The region spans both Chile and Argentina, but the Chilean Patagonia, in particular, blends adventure with incredible hospitality, sustainability and design-forward lodges. Check out my full Patagonia guide for more travel tips.

Where to Stay in Patagonia

Destinations to Become One with Nature

Explora Torres del Paine: An all-inclusive base for daily guided adventures, with floor-to-ceiling windows that keep the views front and center.

The Singular Patagonia: A converted cold storage plant turned luxury hotel, with access to fjords, glaciers and daily excursions by land and water.


Norway: The Living Postcard

Destinations to Become One with Nature

Deep fjords, mirrored lakes, waterfalls rumbling down cliffsides. It doesn’t get more scenic than this! Norway offers an intimate experience with not only nature but with the beauty of seasonality. There are few other places where you can immerse yourself so fully (and luxuriously) in the magic of winter.

Pro Tip: Fjord cruises offer the best front-row seat to the scenery, in my experience. But, venturing inland also brings you even closer to the quiet magic of this landscape. From kayaking in Geirangerfjord to hiking above the Arctic Circle, this is where you go to feel small in the best possible way.

Where to Stay in Norway

Destinations to Become One with Nature

Hotel Union Geiranger: The town of Geiranger is an absolute must for a Norwegian itinerary! Perched above one of Norway’s most stunning fjords, with thermal baths and panoramic views.

Storfjord Hotel: A hidden gem near Alesund, surrounded by forest and fjord with cozy-chic cabins and local, seasonal cuisine.


Provence, France: Where Nature Blooms

Provence may not be a “wilderness” adventure, but don’t let its village charm fool you. This region of rolling vineyards, lavender fields and sun-drenched stone villages is an immersive experience in living in tune with nature.

Why not wake up to birdsong, shop just-picked ingredients in open-air markets and taste the terroir in every glass of wine?

For those who do want to mix a bit of adventure with la belle view in Provence, I’d suggest hiking through the Luberon mountains, biking past poppy fields or taking a picnic to the Roman ruins.

Where to Stay in Norway

Destinations to Become One with Nature

Domaine de Fontenille: A dreamy wine estate with trails through vineyards, art-filled spaces, and Provencal elegance.

Domaine de Manville: A luxe countryside retreat with a focus on sustainability, nature walks and Mediterranean wellness.


Take a Walk on the Wild Side

Whether you’re trekking windswept cliffs or sipping wine amongst the flowers, nature has a way of putting things in perspective. This year, why not put the tourist attractions aside and spend time reconnecting with nature in some of the most incredible places on Earth?

If you’re ready to breathe it all in and become one with nature, let’s connect. I’m here to help you design your dream nature-forward trip.


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