Traveling should be satisfying, but including concrete jungles, crowded cities, and congested shopping districts on your itinerary sometimes causes burnout. As much as you want to shrug off reality, travel fatigue really happens. Other travelers seek refuge from a bottle of local beer or a plate of a local delicacy. Others need more than that, such as a place that could lift their spirits and inspire them to get back on track. One of the possible solutions is to go back to nature, where serenity is widely available.
From mountains to lakes to waterfalls, each destination has its own perfect spot for nature lovers. Natural destinations that are difficult to reach will surely offer a tranquil vibe and cure travel burnout. To start your list of spots to consider, here are some natural destinations near three famous cities.
Honolulu, Hawaii: Manoa Waterfall
Somewhere within the Honolulu Watershed Forest Reserve is a respite great for a day hike and a cool dip. Manoa Waterfall is a 150-foot waterfall that’s very accessible from Honolulu. A mile-long trek to the cascading waterfall is already an experience on its own. The trail traverses lush foliage that makes the hike more relaxing, and appreciating the diverse ecosystem makes your trek more gratifying.
If the trail to Manoa Waterfall is an easy one, continue to conquer other trails nearby. If you’re planning to stay for several nights in the city, here’s a list of hotels in Honolulu.
Lake Tahoe, California: Adventure Mountain
Adventure Mountain is easily accessible from luxury accommodations in Lake Tahoe. Winter is the best time for sledding, and it’s the major activity here. Snow in this part of the state sometimes comes late in the season, though, given its location near Echo Summit. Bring your sleds and slide down the mountain slopes. The smooth, groomed hills offer plenty of fun and a great day outdoors. Keep your balance or prepare to tumble on the freezing, thick layer of snow. If you don’t bring your own sled, you can rent one for $30.
Asheville, North Carolina: Craggy Gardens
Craggy Gardens in Asheville is both a natural attraction and a romantic destination in North Carolina. From day to night, the garden is an option for daytime picnics or stargazing on a clear evening. During the summer, prepare to be astonished by the mountain slopes draped with colorful rhododendron flowers.
Hiking is also an activity to consider on your visit. Craggy Pinnacles, a popular hiking trail, will lead you to the summit for a sweeping 360-degree view of the surroundings. The 2.5-kilometer roundtrip trek is an easy walk, thanks to the rhododendron canopy. For an extended stay in the city, check out these hotel recommendations in Asheville.
Whether or not you’re a nature lover, these destinations bring a different vibe to your travels, with a peaceful atmosphere that frees your mind from worry. Nature is still the best way to reset your mind and body from all the hullabaloo of your daily life.
