Vacation FOMO is real—especially when you see photos cropping up all over your social feeds of dreamy beach-side asanas, camper vans on sparkling lakes, and yurts in blooming meadows. More importantly, it’s also a sign that it’s time to commit to your own energy-charged getaway.
Before you book your ticket to the latest uber-popular tropical hideaway, though, it’s worth taking a look at more under the radar—but no less dazzling—locales. Specifically, the next spot to make waves in the wellness world (we’re calling it!): Great Britain.
And no, we’re not talking London—although there are plenty of boutique fitness studios to love there—but instead some more tucked-away parts of Wales, Scotland, and England. Seriously, the UK ticks off all the buzzy wellness-retreat boxes: Beautiful scenery (stone-covered beaches and spilling waterfalls), cool accommodations (think tepees and yurts), and tons of outdoor activities (hiking, cycling, and cliff-jumping).
Best of all, Britain is considered a super-safe option for solo travelers due to its low crime rate and welcoming vibe. Within tourism circles, it’s cited as particularly safe for women and LGBTQ travelers—which means a solo discovery trip could be in order.
Ready to pack your bags? Scroll down for 5 of the coolest wellness hotspots to check out in Great Britain.
For seriously scenic trekking: the Scottish Highlands
If you’ve been considering a reflective solo hike (à la Wild), Scotland’s Munro mountains, with tons of peaks over 3,000 feet high, will make you finally want to take the plunge. If you don’t have the vacation days to summit them all (a feat the locals call “Munro bagging”), try scaling Ben Nevis, the highest peak in the UK. And if you just want to hit the major sights, make your way through the green glens in a camper van to Loch Ness. Yep, that Loch Ness.
For adrenaline-filled adventure: Wales
Meet your new favorite sport: coasteering. A combo of cliff-jumping, climbing, swimming, and spelunking (AKA the exploration of caves), this seriously fun activity is made for Wales’ cavernous, stunning shoreline. If you want to get in touch with your daredevil side (and get some wow-worthy Instagram shots), this is for you. And don’t worry: Afterwards, you can chill out in a hot yoga class or soothing floatation tank.
For cycling nirvana: Yorkshire, England
One of the best ways to explore is on two wheels—and the winding, vibrant hillsides of Northern England provide the soul-satisfying backdrop. The Yorkshire Dales offer everything from low-key valley routes to challenging moorland rides, and the area is dotted with quaint, stone-cottage villages where you can recharge along the way. (Jane Austen reading material optional.)
For exploration on horseback: Somerset, England
Somerset is known for it’s subtly beautiful, lush scenery, and local spots offer ample opportunities to horseback ride (even if you’re a beginner). The Tarr steps (above) are a series of stone slabs across the River Barle that are best crossed on horseback, and basically let you channel your inner 19th-century feminist heroine while getting a serious nature fix.
For the boutique experience: Cotswolds, England
If all you really want to do is chill, you’re covered. The super-charming Cotswold region is packed with healthy farm-to-table restaurants, picturesque country houses, and next-level spas for major relaxation. For a wellness-escape vibe, stay in a luxe cabin or check into a soothing old-world estate. Your energy—and your Instagram feed—will be on point.
In partnership with VisitBritain
Top photo: VisitBritain/Peter Beavis
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