Finland Joins Italy, France, Ireland, Japan, Australia and Portugal as the World’s Most Sought-After Calm Countryside Destinations for a Soul-Soothing Travel Experience in 2026

Published on December 18, 2025

As global travel trends continue evolving, many travelers are seeking experiences that go beyond bustling cities and crowded tourist hotspots. In 2026, the focus is on slowing down, immersing oneself in nature, and embracing the rhythms of rural life. The world’s countryside offers a unique form of travel: one where time stretches, stress fades, and beauty comes in the quiet simplicity of rolling hills, historic villages, and pristine landscapes. Here are seven countries that stand out for those seeking the ultimate calm countryside experience.

1. Finland — Lakes, Forests, and the Silence of Nature

Finland, often celebrated for its northern lights and saunas, hides a countryside experience that rivals its natural wonders. The Finnish Lakeland region, with its thousands of interconnected lakes, offers an unparalleled sense of tranquility. Here, small villages nestle beside reflective waters, and dense forests stretch uninterrupted as far as the eye can see.

Visitors to the Finnish countryside can immerse themselves in a life closely tied to nature. Whether it’s paddling a canoe along serene waterways, hiking through pine forests, or spotting wildlife like moose and beavers, the pace is deliberate and unhurried. One of the defining aspects of rural Finland is the concept of “everyman’s rights,” allowing visitors to roam freely in forests, pick berries, and camp beside lakes, fostering a deep connection with the land.

Seasonal shifts dramatically enhance the countryside experience. Summer brings endless daylight, perfect for long treks, fishing, or cycling along quiet country roads. In winter, snow blankets the landscape, and the stillness of frozen lakes offers a meditative retreat. Traditional Finnish saunas by the lake provide the ultimate way to unwind after a day of exploring, combining relaxation with a centuries-old cultural ritual.

Must-visit areas: Saimaa Lake region for peaceful lakeside retreats, Koli National Park for breathtaking hills and sunrise vistas, and the Archipelago Coast for secluded island exploration.

2. Italy — Rolling Hills, Vineyards, and Timeless Villages

Italy’s reputation as a travel destination often revolves around cities like Rome, Florence, or Venice, but the Italian countryside provides a wholly different allure — one of serenity and timeless beauty. Regions such as Tuscany, Umbria, and Puglia are renowned for rolling hills, golden vineyards, olive groves, and charming hilltop towns that feel frozen in time.

The countryside offers not just scenic beauty but also cultural immersion. Visitors can stay at agriturismos, family-run farm accommodations, where they can participate in wine harvesting, cooking traditional meals, or simply enjoy a glass of locally produced wine on a terrace overlooking sun-drenched fields. The pace of life is deliberately slower, allowing travelers to savor every sight, taste, and sound.

Historic villages, like San Gimignano with its medieval towers, or Montefalco with its panoramic landscapes, provide a glimpse into centuries of Italian heritage. Local festivals, artisanal markets, and the enduring food culture of these regions make rural travel not just visually rewarding but also a feast for the senses. Italy’s countryside encourages travelers to linger, explore small lanes, and relish the simplicity of life away from crowded tourist spots.

Best regions for calm countryside travel: Tuscany and Chianti for classic rolling hills, Umbria for peaceful valleys, and Puglia for whitewashed farmhouses and olive groves.

3. France — Lavender Fields, Vineyards, and Historic Hamlets

France’s countryside evokes images of sunlit fields, quaint villages, and timeless landscapes. Beyond Paris and the French Riviera lies a world of tranquility, from the lavender-scented fields of Provence to the vineyard-laden valleys of Bordeaux and the fairytale-like Dordogne.

The rural regions of France combine natural beauty with cultural depth. In Provence, summer brings a riot of colors and fragrances as lavender fields stretch toward the horizon, while the surrounding villages offer quiet cafés and local markets that feel untouched by modernity. Dordogne, with its gentle rivers and historic castles, provides endless opportunities for leisurely exploration, whether by canoe, bicycle, or simply strolling through hidden hamlets.

French rural life is steeped in tradition. Staying in a gîte, a rural holiday home, allows travelers to live like locals, shopping at village markets, cooking regional dishes, and savoring wines straight from the vineyard. Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Normandy all offer distinct rural experiences, from rolling vineyards and riverside paths to apple orchards and pastoral pastures.

Highlights for travelers: Burgundy for world-class wines and rolling hills, Loire Valley for chateaux and quiet rivers, and Normandy for pastoral landscapes dotted with historic towns.

4. Ireland — Emerald Hills and Cozy Villages

Ireland’s countryside is a haven for those in search of greenery, tranquility, and authentic rural life. The iconic patchwork of green fields, dotted with stone walls and grazing sheep, offers a sense of calm that is difficult to find elsewhere. Small villages, friendly locals, and dramatic landscapes make it ideal for immersive, slow-paced travel.

The Irish countryside offers diversity: from the limestone landscapes of the Burren in County Clare to the rugged cliffs and coastal vistas of Donegal, each region provides a unique form of serenity. Killarney National Park, with its lakes, mountains, and walking trails, exemplifies the restorative power of rural Ireland. Meanwhile, Tipperary’s rolling hills invite long, contemplative drives or hikes under wide-open skies.

Ireland’s culture complements its landscapes. Pubs hosting traditional music, local storytellers, and centuries-old agricultural practices create an environment where visitors can engage authentically with local life. Rural Ireland encourages relaxation, reflection, and the slow enjoyment of daily rhythms.

Best areas for calm exploration: County Galway and the Burren for unique limestone landscapes, Killarney National Park for lakes and trails, and Tipperary Hills for pastoral serenity.

5. Japan — Harmony, Tradition, and Timeless Villages

Japan’s countryside offers a remarkable blend of natural beauty, historical preservation, and cultural richness. Away from the bustling cities, villages like Shirakawa-go and Gokayama provide a window into traditional life with their iconic thatched-roof houses and carefully preserved landscapes.

Traveling in rural Japan is a journey through seasons and traditions. Cherry blossoms in spring, lush rice paddies in summer, fiery autumn foliage, and serene snow-covered villages in winter all create constantly shifting, picturesque settings. Hikes through quiet valleys, visits to hot springs, and participation in local festivals allow travelers to experience the peaceful rhythms of rural life.

Regions such as the Kiso Valley, with its historic post towns and forested trails, offer immersive experiences for those seeking quiet reflection. Hida and Takayama provide a combination of mountain scenery and artisanal culture, while Shirakawa-go and Gokayama exemplify rural Japanese heritage, blending human habitation seamlessly with nature.

Top destinations for calm countryside travel: Kiso Valley for hiking and historic towns, Hida and Takayama for artisan villages and mountains, Shirakawa-go and Gokayama for traditional architecture and tranquil scenery.

6. Australia — Vast Landscapes and Farm Stays

Australia’s rural regions offer a form of calm that stems from sheer scale and openness. Beyond the bustling cities lie expansive farmlands, mountain ranges, and remote outback stations where travelers can immerse themselves in rural life and the rhythm of nature.

Agritourism is an ideal way to experience Australian countryside. Visitors can stay on sheep farms in Tasmania, cattle stations in Queensland, or vineyards in Victoria, participating in farm routines, tasting local produce, and enjoying slow mornings amid wide-open spaces. Trails through forests, rivers, and farmland invite walking, cycling, and observing wildlife, including kangaroos, emus, and native bird species.

The Australian Outback offers a different kind of serenity. Vast desert landscapes, starry night skies, and ancient geological formations create a meditative environment where travelers can disconnect entirely from urban noise and pressures. Even the rolling vineyards and pastoral lands of southern Australia offer quiet escapes punctuated by culinary delights and regional wines.

Best rural destinations in Australia: Tasmania’s agricultural regions, Barossa and Yarra Valleys for vineyards and farm stays, and the Kimberley Outback for remote landscapes and star-filled nights.

7. Portugal — Peaceful Villages, Cork Forests, and Rolling Plains

Portugal’s countryside, often overshadowed by its coastal attractions, offers some of Europe’s most peaceful rural experiences. Inland regions provide rolling hills, historic villages, cork oak forests, and pastoral landscapes where life moves at a deliberate pace.

Alentejo, with its wide plains, olive groves, and vineyards, epitomizes calm rural travel. The region is ideal for long walks, birdwatching, and staying in traditional farmhouses. Visitors can savor local cuisine made from freshly sourced ingredients and enjoy wines that reflect centuries of regional heritage.

Historic villages in Portugal allow travelers to step back in time. Cobblestone streets, hilltop castles, and terraced vineyards encourage leisurely exploration, while the quieter mountains of Serra da Estrela offer hiking and serene retreats. The Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and gentle river views, combines stunning landscapes with rich cultural experiences, perfect for travelers seeking both calm and enrichment.

Must-visit rural areas: Alentejo for open plains and traditional farms, Douro Valley for vineyards and river scenery, Serra da Estrela for mountains and quaint hamlets.

Tips for an Enriching Countryside Experience in 2026

To fully embrace the calm and restorative benefits of countryside travel, consider these strategies:

1. Prioritize Slow Travel: Opt for accommodations like farmhouses, cottages, and family-run inns rather than urban hotels to connect with local rhythms.
2. Travel Off-Peak: Visiting in spring or autumn ensures fewer crowds, comfortable weather, and unique seasonal experiences, such as harvests or blooming fields.
3. Engage with Local Culture: Attend village festivals, participate in local workshops, and explore artisanal markets to experience the countryside authentically.
4. Embrace Nature and Wellness: Seek destinations with walking trails, lakes, forests, or spas that allow for reflection, mindfulness, and rejuvenation.
5. Support Sustainable Tourism: Many rural regions now focus on regenerative farming and eco-friendly accommodations, ensuring your visit benefits the community and the environment.

Conclusion

In 2026, the most meaningful travel experiences may not be measured by the number of landmarks visited but by the depth of connection with nature, culture, and oneself. The Finnish lakes, Italian vineyards, French lavender fields, Irish green hills, Japanese heritage villages, Australian farmlands, and Portuguese plains each offer a unique form of calm and restoration.

Traveling through these serene landscapes encourages mindfulness, slows the pace of life, and fosters a renewed appreciation for simplicity. Whether it’s watching the sun rise over a Finnish lake, cycling through Tuscan hills, or hiking in Japan’s quiet valleys, the countryside offers a journey not only across regions but also into a deeper, calmer state of mind.

In 2026, choose the road less traveled, linger in villages where time seems suspended, and immerse yourself in the restorative power of the world’s most peaceful rural landscapes. The countryside beckons with its gentle beauty, timeless traditions, and unmatched tranquility — promising experiences that will linger long after the journey ends.