Home - Travel Tips - The Best Slow Travel (Social Distancing Travel Destinations)

If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

We link to affiliated partners at no extra cost to you. 

Quiet, Crowd-Free Travel Destinations: Where Space Still Matters

Alone Together - less crowded social distancing travel destinations

A few years ago, travelers searched for social distancing travel destinations because they wanted room to move and places that felt calm. The phrase has faded, but the reason behind it has not. Crowds feel more tiring than ever, popular spots book out faster, and many people now plan trips around peace, comfort, and breathing space.  Away from those Instagram-Photo-Hunting-Squads…

This article updates that idea for today. These are destinations and travel styles that naturally stay uncrowded — not because of rules, but because of location, scale, and timing.

Why Space Still Shapes Travel Choices

Busy places cost more, feel rushed, and leave little room for simple pleasures. Quiet destinations offer easier parking, relaxed meals, and mornings that start slowly. Travelers now value quality time over ticking off landmarks, and space makes that possible.

That shift explains why calm destinations continue to perform well long after the buzzwords disappeared.

Places where we can connect, without rubbing elbows with 3 000 people all fighting for the same spot…

Slow travel - new travel buzz word for quiet travel destinations and hidden gems

Mountains, Lakes, and Wide-Open Nature

Nature spreads people out better than any rule ever could.

Mountain regions and lake districts provide:

  • Fresh air and cooler temperatures

  • Space for walking without crowds

  • Viewpoints that don’t feel rushed

  • Evenings that go quiet early

They work well for travelers who enjoy scenery, gentle activity, and good sleep.

Places like:

  1. Visit the 10 Most Beautiful Waterfalls – places with stunning viewpoints.
  2. Mestia, Georgia – Explore the beautiful mountains of Georgia.
  3. Ninh Binh & Tam Coc – Vietnam’s Hidden Gem with Jaw-Dropping Scenery.

Islands That Stay Calm

Not all islands are party islands.

The quiet ones share a few traits:

  • Limited nightlife

  • Fewer large hotels

  • Slower ferry schedules

  • A focus on daily life

These islands reward travelers who enjoy morning swims, long lunches, and sunset walks. Outside peak summer weeks, they feel especially relaxed.

Places like:

  1. Okinawa – the famous (Karate Kid – Mr Miyagi’s) Island. 
  2. Whitsunday Islands – A famous movie destination.
  3. Padar – a journey to one of Indonesia’s best-kept secrets.

Small Towns Instead of Big Cities

Large cities concentrate people. Small towns spread them out.

Village-scale destinations have:

  • Walkable centers

  • Local cafés instead of chains

  • Guesthouses and small hotels

  • A natural daily rhythm

Think lakeside towns, wine villages, coastal settlements, and countryside hubs with one main street. These places feel lived-in, not staged, and never overwhelm.

Places like:

  1. Filzmoos – wonderful moments to enjoy…
  2. Brantôme – the Venice of Périgord – Postcard Perfect
  3. Napier, South Africa – to hide from the world…

Countryside Regions With Things to do

Rural does not mean remote. Many countryside areas sit less than two hours from major airports.

They offer:

  • Scenic drives instead of packed transport

  • Farm stays and family-run lodgings

  • Open landscapes and quiet roads

  • Markets, bakeries, and local restaurants

Regions like alpine valleys, rolling farmland, olive-growing hills, or vineyard areas naturally absorb visitors without feeling full.

Places like: 

  1. Killary Harbour in Ireland – an absolute treasure tucked away on Ireland’s rugged west coast. 
  2. Chrissiesmeer in South Africa, – a delightful blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational opportunities.
  3. Alentejo region in Portugal – a place where time slows down
3 Coutries In One Weekend And Beautiful Lakes - Italy Austria Slovenia

2 Travel Secrets that your friends don't tell you:

1. Shoulder Season Travel (The Secret Weapon)

Timing matters as much as location.  Late spring and early autumn bring:

  • Fewer visitors, Lower accommodation prices, Easier restaurant bookings, and Softer light for photos

The destination stays the same. The experience improves dramatically.

2. Places Built Around Daily Life

The calmest destinations are not designed for tourists.  Look for places where:

  • Locals shop at the same bakery, Markets serve residents first, Restaurants close early, Life feels unhurried…

These places naturally filter out mass tourism and reward travelers who slow down.

Maldives Boats

What Travelers Call Social Distancing Travel Destinations Now

The phrase “social distancing travel destinations” belongs to a specific moment in time:  Covid Times.  But travelers saw the value of these places way back then.  However, today, travelers talk about:

  • Slow travel

  • Low-crowd destinations

  • Quiet escapes

  • Nature-based trips

  • Small towns and hidden regions

Different words, same desire.

Final Thoughts

Travel has not become smaller — it has become more thoughtful. The best destinations now are places that give you space without asking for it, calm without effort, and moments that feel easy to enjoy.

Crowd-free travel is no longer a trend. It’s simply smart planning — and it leads to better trips every time. 

…and remember:  It might not always be a totally crowd-free “Social Distancing Travel Destination”, but it can be “less crowded” and more relaxed if you get the timing right.

Book Safari Adventures

Bush Safaris - the perfect Game Lodge, Safari Adventure Destinations.
Maldives Island holiday

Have a look at these travel destination trends for 2026 and 2027:

  • Destinations that include activities like hiking, water sports and all outdoor activities are becoming more popular.  Fresh air and open spaces is the way to go.
  • Hotels and accommodation options that advertise and are committed to executing excellent safety protocols; Therefore winning the trust of travelers all over the world.
  • Healthy family holiday options, where you can enjoy activities like cycling or horse riding in open natural environments are perfect for family getaways.  The often also include wellness destinations.
  • Game lodges that offer safaris, also offers the possibility of spotting or close encounters with wildlife, while exercising social distancing from people.
  • Holiday Tours and Day Trip packages that offer private or small group adventures and holidays: The perfect option is to book a private tour, with close friends and/or family.

Travel Destination ideas

Interesting Travel Chats and ideas

Explore more

Popular World Travel Destinations

Explore more destinations

Explore