France Joins Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria and More to Unveil European Best Kept Secrets: Your Ultimate Slow Travel Destination Awaits!

Published on December 5, 2025

France joins Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria and more to unveil European best kept secrets: your ultimate slow travel destination awaits! With this powerful move, France joins a growing circle of inspiring nations that invite travellers to pause, explore deeper, and experience Europe differently. However, this collaboration is not just about promotion. It is about purpose. Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria, and more come together with France to showcase hidden landscapes, quiet towns, and authentic stories. Moreover, these European best kept secrets promise meaningful journeys beyond crowded routes. Your ultimate slow travel destination awaits with culture, cuisine, and calm at every turn. Therefore, travellers now gain access to destinations that value time, sustainability, and local life. In addition, this united effort proves that slow travel is no longer a trend. It is a movement. And now, with France joining, the journey becomes even richer.

France – Coastlines, Canals, and Countryside Without the Crowds

France is calling you to leave the busy tourist tracks behind and embrace the beauty of slow tourism. The French tourism board is urging travellers to take their time and enjoy a slower pace in their beautiful regions. Start your adventure by walking along the 2,000-kilometre GR34 coastal path in Brittany. This stunning walk offers views of customs houses perched above the waves. Or, you can cycle along the Canal du Midi, a peaceful ride past ancient plane trees and locks.

But that’s just the beginning. In France, slow tourism lets you truly savour every moment. Head to the Jura Mountains and stay at Les Rousses Resort, certified Flocon Vert for sustainability. On the car-free Île de Ré, take a bike ride to oyster shacks and enjoy eco-spa treatments that reuse rainwater. From Corsica’s slow train crossing gorges to the quiet lakes of Burgundy and Normandy’s rural cycle paths, every corner of France offers the opportunity to connect with nature at a leisurely pace.

Spain – Wild Trails, Tiny Villages, and Glamping Under the Stars

Spain invites you to rediscover the country through slow travel. Forget rushing from one tourist site to another – here, the journey is just as important as the destination. Camp in glamorous eco-tents and sleep under the stars, or hike through the Cañón del Río Lobos, where vultures circle an old Templar chapel. In Tenerife’s Anaga Rural Park, follow the Path of the Senses, guided by touch and smell, or explore the painted forests of the Basque Country.

Take the time to reflect on your life by walking the St James’ Way pilgrimage, a journey that can take weeks. Discover the steep vineyards and Romanesque monasteries of Ribeira Sacra, and escape to car-free islands like El Hierro and La Graciosa. These destinations are free from crowds and traffic, allowing you to experience the true essence of Spain at a slower pace.

Portugal – Road Tripping to Hidden Villages and UNESCO Landscapes

Portugal’s official tourism board is urging travellers to slow down and immerse themselves in the country’s unique culture. Take National Road 2 across Portugal, stopping in schist villages where time moves gently. Hike through UNESCO Biosphere Reserves and geoparks, from the Azores to Madeira. Along the Vicentina Route on the Atlantic coast, walk past rugged cliffs and breathe in the salty air.

In the Alentejo region, embrace the art of vagar – slow living. Enjoy leisurely lunches, rolling vineyards, and beautiful sunsets while visiting the ancient city of Évora. Portugal’s slow tourism journey is a celebration of its hidden gems and the people who make them so special. It’s about tasting fresh, local produce and supporting village markets as you wander through this beautiful country.

Germany – Waterfalls, Car-Free Islands, and Lakes Far from the Crowds

Germany is a country perfect for slow travel, and the official Visit Europe website calls its quiet escapes ideal for those seeking peace and serenity. Swim beneath Geroldsau Waterfall in the Black Forest, breathing in the fresh air filled with rhododendrons. Sail to Baltrum, a car-free East Frisian island, and enjoy mud treatments and beach walks. On the small Fraueninsel island in Lake Chiemsee, stroll past a Benedictine convent and flower-decked cottages.

In Brandenburg’s Uckermärkische Lakes Nature Park, paddle across 200 lakes, spotting ospreys and beavers along the way. Germany offers a wealth of destinations where you can escape the crowds and rediscover a peaceful, slower way of life.

Austria – Finding Peace Through Decelerated Holidays

In Austria, slow travel is about escaping the pressures of modern life and embracing a mindful, relaxed approach to exploring the country. Austria’s tourism researchers highlight the need to slow down, offering experiences that allow travellers to experience calm and local culture. It’s not just about alpine retreats – even city breaks in Austria can be decelerated.

Choose train journeys over flights, stay longer in one place, and immerse yourself in the local culture. Austrian businesses are also encouraged to create eco-friendly retreats and offer programmes that soothe, rather than rush. Whether you’re hiking in the Alps, relaxing in a spa, or enjoying local food, Austria’s slow tourism experiences invite you to recharge both body and soul.

Slovenia – Green-Certified Adventures in Europe’s First Green Country

Slovenia is Europe’s first green-certified country, and its Green Scheme of Slovenian Tourism (GSST) promotes sustainability and slow tourism. Destinations and businesses in Slovenia reduce waste, save energy, and enhance visitor experiences by earning the Slovenia Green label. The country’s commitment to sustainability makes it a perfect destination for slow tourism.

Visit beautiful places like Bled, Bohinj, and Ljubljana, all ranked among the world’s Top 100 for sustainable tourism. Cycle through vineyards, kayak on emerald lakes, and hike to alpine pastures. In Slovenia, slow tourism is about experiencing the land and its people while reducing your environmental impact.

Netherlands – Welcome to the Slowlands of 2025

The Netherlands is rebranding itself as the “Slowlands” for 2025, offering travellers the chance to immerse themselves in nature’s rhythm, not the rush of the city. Cycle through the forests of Overijssel and Gelderland, or along Friesland’s windswept coasts. The Netherlands is known for its world-class cycle paths, which make slow tourism easy and accessible.

Sleep in eco-friendly accommodations, sail on canals powered by renewable energy, and explore heritage towns at your own pace. The year 2025 also marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, giving you the chance to reflect on freedom and diversity while enjoying the Netherlands’ natural beauty.

Belgium (Flanders) – Forests, Hills, and Fairy-Tale Villages

Belgium’s Flanders region invites travellers to slow down and explore its forests, hills, and fairy-tale villages. Walk through the bluebell carpets of Hallerbos, the ancient Sonian Forest, and Meerdaalwoud. The Flemish Ardennes is home to legendary hills and picturesque villages, all accessible via public transport. Follow “Slow Down” walking routes, sample regional cheeses, beer, and chocolate, and take part in Treinstapper hikes that start and end at train stations.

The Burreken and Grootmeers nature reserves offer bird-watching and forest bathing, perfect for those looking for a true slow tourism experience. Belgium’s slow tourism is all about connecting with nature and enjoying the simplicity of life.

Luxembourg – The Art of Taking It Easy in Europe’s Tiny Gem

Luxembourg offers an ideal destination for slow tourism with its castles, unspoilt nature, and regional products. The Guttland region, the heart of the country, offers hundreds of kilometres of footpaths and cycle tracks. Visit the Valley of the Seven Castles, explore Gallo-Roman ruins, and enjoy farm-to-table gastronomy.

Slow tourism is Luxembourg’s motto: explore off-the-beaten tracks, take your time to enjoy the land, and visit hidden villages, orchards, and vineyards on cycle tours starting from Useldange Castle. Whether walking in city parks like Villa Vauban or Merl Park or hiking in Bambësch and Gréngewald forests, Luxembourg offers a perfect escape for those seeking relaxation.

Italy – Pilgrim Paths and Countryside Tranquility

Italy promotes the Via Francigena, an 1,800-kilometre pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome, as the perfect slow travel experience. The Italian section of the route stretches 945 kilometres and can be walked or cycled, allowing travellers to pass alpine pastures, Po Valley plains, Tuscan vineyards, and Lazio’s lakes. Stay in hostels, farms, and monasteries, and earn a Testimonium certificate for completing the final 100 km.

Italy’s slow tourism is about taking your time to enjoy the journey. The Via Francigena offers a profound experience that leads to inner discovery, with quiet paths, local food, and contemplative walking along the way.

Croatia – Sustainable Adriatic Escapes and Inland Treasures

Croatia is a perfect destination for slow tourism, with its stunning Adriatic coast and lush inland regions. The country’s tourism board urges travellers to take the train, stop in countryside areas like Konavle, and enjoy local food, markets, and vineyards. Croatia offers eight national parks, twelve nature parks, and over 1,000 islands. Slow tourism here means taking your time to enjoy nature, culture, and authentic Croatian hospitality.

Ireland – Untamed Waterways and Unrushed Moments

Ireland’s Hidden Heartlands is the epitome of slow tourism perfection. Meander along rivers, canals, and lakes, or walk centuries-old towpaths while enjoying riverside pubs and candlelit dinners. Ireland’s “Ireland Unrushed” campaign invites you to savour small moments, connect with locals, and leave with lasting memories. Slow tourism in Ireland means breathing deeply, moving slowly, and allowing the landscape to unfold like a poem.

United Kingdom – From Wellness Retreats to Lunar Hikes

The UK is embracing slow tourism with a focus on wellness and nature. Scotland offers Hebridean seaweed baths and woodland therapy at Dunkeld House Hotel. Wales has Wildwater Sauna, where you can relax by the rugged coastline. In the UK, slow tourism is about taking time to recharge your body and soul, whether you’re walking along the King Charles III England Coast Path, exploring gardens in Manchester, or foraging along Wales’ coast.

Norway – Hidden Fjords and Forests with Space to Breathe

Norway is ideal for slow tourism, with its hidden fjords and peaceful villages. Visit tranquil spots like Sæbø and Urke on Hjørundfjord or hike Mount Laushornet near Geirangerfjord for panoramic views. Norway’s national parks, like Rondane and Senja, offer solitude, respect for nature, and stunning scenery.

Sweden – Road Trips Through Saunas and the Midnight Sun

Swedish Lapland invites you on a road trip through saunas and the midnight sun, offering slow tourism at its finest. Visit the Haparanda Archipelago National Park, dine on fresh whitefish, and enjoy the quiet beauty of Tornedalen. Sweden’s slow tourism philosophy allows you to relax, plan your next hike, and enjoy the journey at your own pace.

Denmark – Island-Hopping to Hygge and Nature

Denmark offers 13 small islands perfect for slow tourism. Cycle across Samsø, enjoy hygge on Ærø, and explore the myths of Læsø. Denmark’s islands invite you to slow down, unplug, and enjoy nature in its purest form.

Finland – The Land Where Slow Travel is the Best Way to Travel

In Finland, slow travel is the best way to travel. The country’s sustainable travel practices, including public transport and eco-friendly accommodations, make it easy to connect with nature. Whether you’re exploring Sámi traditions in Lapland or visiting wooden towns, Finland’s slow tourism philosophy lets you experience its beauty at a leisurely pace.

Slow Tourism Movement

Slow tourism is not just a trend – it’s a movement that encourages mindful travel and deeper connections with the places you visit. Whether you’re exploring the peaceful villages of France, hiking in Spain’s wild trails, or enjoying a serene retreat in Norway, slow tourism offers the opportunity to experience Europe in its truest form. Start planning your next slow adventure today, and discover the hidden gems that await you.

Conclusion

In conclusion, France Joins Spain, Portugal, Germany, Austria and More to Unveil European Best Kept Secrets as a shared promise to travellers. Your Ultimate Slow Travel Destination Awaits with purpose and authenticity. Together, these nations move to Unveil a European vision that is Best Kept yet now open. This unified effort proves that mindful Travel, rich Destination experiences, and meaningful discovery truly Awaits all.