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If the amazing spectacle has given you a taste for stargazing, you're not alone. In fact, it's a magical and inexpensive way to connect with <anchor>nature</anchor> and you're guaranteed to be left awe-struck by the sheer size and beauty of the universe, on a clear night.
World's best nature holidays for 2024
# The world's best nature holidays for soaking up stunning scenery and wildlife

From the dramatic beauty of Madeira's gardens to Slovenia's picturesque mountain scenery, these are the best trips for nature lovers

By Jo Blyth and Anna HannUpdated: 09 January 2024

Slovenia. wallix//Getty Images

At Country Living, we love nature holidays that let us get close to the natural world, visiting places that are all about amazing landscapes and incredible wonders that have made them special for centuries.

We know you adore spending time in nature too, whether browsing a beautiful garden, exploring high peaks on a lakes and mountain getaway, or appreciating the local birds and animals.

So, if you want to see flowers bursting into bloom in spring or soak up the sunshine in a famous beauty spot during summer, we've got the perfect nature holiday for you.

Check out the best ideas to book now: a holiday to Japan during cherry blossom season, a family adventure in Costa Rica, and a floral extravaganza in sunny Madeira, for starters. But remember, you don't have to travel thousands of miles from home to experience some of the world's best nature holidays. You can take a sensational cruise around Scotland's beautiful islands or explore the Isles of Scilly with an expert naturalist. Even Kent's splendid gardens make for a rewarding nature holiday.

Read on for the best nature holidays to take in 2024.

1

## Discover the wildlife of the Isles of Scilly with an expert naturalist

nature holidaysMaisna//Getty Images

Take a trip to the Isles of Scilly, and you’ll soon see why so many consider these nature-filled islands to be Britain’s most idyllic archipelago. You’ll discover botanic gardens and powder-soft beaches, where Atlantic grey seals can often be spotted and where porpoises and dolphins play off the shores.

On the second-largest island, Tresco, you can visit Tresco Abbey Garden, a true marvel for any keen botanist. The garden was established in the 19th century around the ruins of an old Benedictine Abbey and is now home to a collection of 20,000 plants from all over the world, including Brazil, New Zealand and South Africa.

In September 2024, you can join Country Living and Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Wildlife Trust Julian Branscombe on a nature-focused tour of these enchanting isles.

2

## Taste Slovenia's incredible flavours and explore its natural parks

mostnica canyon in slovenia mostnice koritamostnica canyon in slovenia mostnice koritabaratroli//Getty Images

Loved for its nature, Slovenia also offers fabulous gastronomy, with a rich culinary heritage influenced by its diverse landscapes. It's also a great destination for eco-friendly travellers and has an incredible seven Michelin Green Star restaurants, showing its dedication to sustainable tourism extends to its food scene.

Foodies in Slovenia will want to head to the tranquil Vipava Valley for some wine tasting, visit the medieval town of Kamnik, the centre of the country's craft beer production, and wander the cobbled streets of Ljubljana searching for excellent local eateries and upmarket restaurants.

Join Country Living's six-day trip in April 2024 and you'll do all the above as well as taking a memorable truffle-hunting trip in Slovenian Istria, before tasting these valuable funghi as part of a delicious homestead dinner.

3

## See the fascinating landscapes of Scotland's remote isles

iona abbey, cottages and a fishing boat on a sunny day in autumn from the sound of ionaAlan Morris//Getty Images

From the basalt columns of Fingal's Cave to the soaring cliffs and pristine stretches of the Small Isles, some of Scotland's most dramatic natural scenery can be found on its most remote islands. These isles are also a haven for wildlife, from puffins and white-tailed eagles to dolphins, seals and whales who can often be spotted breaching the waters.

Country Living has a wonderful five-night tour of some of Scotland's most remote and wild islands in May 2024. You'll sail on the luxury small ship, Bolette, passing through the fjord-like Loch Hourn, which is surrounded by some of Scotland's most astonishing natural scenery, and the Sound of Mull before reaching the Atlantic, where you'll stop on the bonnet-shaped Bac Mòr island, the Small Isles archipelago and the Holy Isle of Iona

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4

## Witness the Northern Lights as you explore Norway's landscapes

a town by the water with mountains in the backgroundchabrov / 500px//Getty Images

Fjords, ice-covered mountains and the jaw-dropping natural phenomena that is the Aurora Borealis – when it comes to nature holidays that pack a punch, Norway is hard to beat. Travelling at the right time of year to the right location will almost guarantee you a sighting of the ethereal Northern Lights dancing in the skies above Norway's dramatic natural landscapes.

Country Living's 12-day cruise in January, April, October or December 2024 takes you above the Arctic Circle to the city of Tromsø and to the remote and beautiful Lofoten Islands. The chances of catching the Northern Lights here are high. You'll be travelling with a team of expedition experts who'll give you the best chance of catching a display and host a series of onboard lectures to teach you more about Norway's incredible history, biology, geography, geology and culture.

5

## Admire the Netherlands’ springtime blooms with Adam Frost

nature holidaysJacobH//Getty Images

Spring is the ideal time to visit the Netherlands, as the country's internationally famous tulip fields burst into flamboyant colour. You can also visit the dazzling Keukenhof Gardens, where over seven million flowers will be on show. On Country Living’s exceptional cruise in April 2024, you’ll see these outstanding flower displays up close.

You’ll sail from Amsterdam along pretty canals and waterways, enjoying picturesque views of the blooming fields and spotting Holland's iconic windmills towering above them. You’ll be joined on your trip by Gardeners’ World presenter Adam Frost, who will join you for excursions and give an insightful Q&A, where you can pick up some top horticultural tips on replicating the delights of the Netherlands’ flower fields at home.

6

## Take a stroll around some of Kent’s prettiest gardens

world best nature holidaysThasan Sakthi / 500px//Getty Images

You don’t have to venture overseas to encounter abundant natural beauty, and Kent’s magnificent gardens are an excellent example of nature on our doorstep – both wild and tamed.

In June 2024, join garden designer and writer Sarah Raven at her beautiful garden at Perch Hill for a private lunch and tour of these exquisite gardens. You’ll also visit Sissinghurst Castle on a private tour. At Scotney Castle, a beautiful castle set on an island, you’ll see the moat, woodland glade, hidden walkways, and a heather-thatched icehouse. And while the cultivated rhododendrons, azaleas and kalmia are undoubtedly wonderful, plenty is left to grow wild here.

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7

## Glide through stunning scenery in the Swiss Alps

nature holidaysKvdB50//Getty Images

You don’t have to be a hiker or climber to enjoy the scenic drama of the Swiss Alps. The Glacier Express, a world-famous railway journey, carves an eight-hour path through the landscape, past sheer mountainsides including the Matterhorn, hugging the edge of glittering glacial lakes, and passing the so-called Grand Canyon of Switzerland, the Rhine Gorge. Guests can sit back in the comfortable carriages and allow the scenery to come to them effortlessly.

Country Living has departures for an unforgettable Switzerland tour in March and October 2024. You’ll experience one of the most dramatic sections of the Glacier Express route as it spirals upwards and witness the sights through huge windows as you feast on a three-course lunch.

8

## Explore the exceptional beauty of the Outer Hebrides

world best nature holidaysIain Masterton//Getty Images

Known for their wonderful landscapes and distinctive whiskies, the Outer Hebrides are a delight to explore. This chain of islands off the west coast of Scotland boasts a rich cultural heritage, but they’re particularly noted as a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers, offering activities such as hiking and bird watching.

Early summer is the perfect time to visit this Scottish archipelago with temperate weather, blooming wildflowers, and the opportunity to see seals coming ashore. Join Country Living on a eleven-day trip in June 2024 that hops around some of the most beautiful islands. On Harris, you'll stop at one of the isles' most beautiful white sand beaches, Luskentyre Beach, where the white sand and turquoise waters are easily mistaken as belonging to somewhere far more tropical. And in Stornoway, a local nature expert will talk about the varied fauna found on the islands.

9

## Witness a floral extravaganza in Madeira

nature holidayswjarek//Getty Images

The subtropical isle of Madeira has fascinating geology for nature lovers to discover. You may hear it called the 'Pearl of the Atlantic' or even the 'Island of Eternal Spring' - both accurate nicknames for an island punctuated with such beauty, partly thanks to its lush and exotic gardens. Its annual flower festival in the late spring is a sensational time to visit when the islanders create huge carpets of scented flowers in rainbow shades and joyful parades in the streets.

It’s a true celebration of nature, and you can join the festivities on a special Country Living tour in May 2024. You’ll spend seven days getting to know the island, with plenty of tours to some of Madeira’s finest gardens included. You’ll also have grandstand seating at the Flower Festival for a fabulous parade view.

An extra special way to experience the Madeira Flower Festival in 2024 is our trip with the company of gardening expert Frances Tophill, who'll give a private Q&A session and join you for visits to the Flower Parade and some other sights including the Quinta do Arco rose garden.

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10

## Marvel at Monet's glorious Giverny garden

water lily pond with japanese bridge in autumn, monets garden, giverny, franceRosemary Calvert//Getty Images

Many keen gardeners and horticulturalists will have a visit to Monet's garden in Giverny on their travel bucket lists. Arguably one of the world's most famous gardens, due to its appearance in hundreds of the impressionist master's paintings, this tranquil location has been lovingly restored and is bursting with poppies, lupins, delphiniums and peonies.

On a Country Living trip to France in July 2024, you'll visit Giverny with gardening expert Paula McWaters, who'll give an illuminating talk and Q&A on the gardens before your visit. You'll see the famous green bridge crossing the waterlily ponds and will also pay a visit to the Musée de l'Orangerie in Paris, where you'll see Monet's breathtaking series of murals, Les Nymphéas, depicting these peaceful ponds.

11

## Glide through the jaw-dropping landscapes of Antarctica

the gerlache strait separating the palmer archipelago from the antarctic peninsular off anvers island the antarctic peninsular is one of the fastest warming areas of the planetAshley Cooper//Getty Images

For a truly once-in-a-lifetime nature holiday, the 'White Continent' of Antarctica awaits. Here, you can get up close and personal with truly breathtaking nature, like landscapes of icebergs, fjords, glaciers and towering mountains. You're likely to spot breaching whales in the icy waters and emperor penguins on the shores as you traverse these incredible natural landscapes.

Due to its remote location and dramatic weather, it's only really possible to visit Antarctica on an expedition cruise in the company of experts. Join Country Living's adventure cruise of Antarctica in March, November, or December 2024 and you'll travel on a ship designed specifically for exploring polar waters with a team of Antarctica experts, who'll make sure your visits to this otherworldly terrain are as memorable and hassle-free as possible.

12

## See Japan’s enchanting cherry blossoms

nature holidaysPeerapat Tandavanitj//Getty Images

Japan is high on many people’s wish lists for a nature-themed holiday. There are the wildlife-packed cedar forests of Yakushima Island, the sacred, snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji, and even the chance to spot minke, Bryde, and sei whales in the wild. Time a trip to Japan well, and you could witness one of nature’s most colourful spectacles in its full glory.

Spring marks the arrival of cherry blossom season when the pastel-pink sakura (cherry blossom) blooms around the country, and festivals take place as locals and visitors celebrate this beautiful natural event. Visit Japan with Country Living in March 2025 on an unforgettable cruise, and you’ll visit mesmerising historic buildings and natural landscapes, all while the country is decorated with spectacular cherry blossoms.

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13

## Discover the glorious biodiversity of Costa Rica

nature holidayspacodominguezd / 500px//Getty Images

Costa Rica is deservedly famous for its breadth of exotic wildlife and gloriously beautiful scenery. It makes a fabulous natural playground for adventurous families, who'll love spotting its colourful array of species and exploring the diversity of its landscapes.

The Monteverde Cloud Forest is a real highlight, where you can venture into the lush jungle to spot the sweet faces of noisy monkeys, including howlers, swinging from the tree canopies. Listen for the calls of colourful birdlife, including scarlet macaws, and search for vividly coloured butterflies.

You can spend nine days exploring the country's jungles, kayaking on Lake Arenal and taking a guided nocturnal walk into the Monteverde Cloud Forest with your family on our Costa Rican adventure in July 2024.

14

## Witness the scenic splendour of the Faroe Islands

world best nature holidaysAnton Petrus//Getty Images

The Faroe Islands, located in the North Atlantic between Iceland and Norway, are a remote archipelago with a landscape shaped by volcanic activity and oceanic erosion with dramatic cliffs and cascading waterfalls characterising the terrain. The Faroes' unspoiled nature is a treasure trove of biodiversity, where you can spot birdlife, marine mammals, and plant species. The islands' pristine environment is a testament to the commitment of the Faroese people to sustainability and conservation.

Join a group of just seven other guests on a tour of the Faroe Islands in May 2024. You’ll witness the full beauty of the islands with a helicopter tour, then see it from the ocean during a fishing trip where you might spot puffins and razorbills, whales, and porpoises.

15

## Island hop around the glorious Azores

world best nature holidaysHans Harms//Getty Images

Renowned for their natural beauty and biodiversity, the Azores offer an intriguing blend of volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. Explore the islands' numerous nature reserves, hike through verdant valleys, and scan the waters for incredible marine life, including whales, dolphins, and sea turtles. With a mild climate year-round, the Azores are the perfect destination for an immersive nature holiday.

Join our ten-night nature holiday in April 2024 to see the natural bounty for yourself. You’ll move around the islands to witness how volcanic activity has shaped the landscapes and the fascinating geological formations. You'll also visit Portugal's longest lava tube on Pico, over three miles long, carved by lava flow and a true natural spectacle.

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16

## Venture into Sierra de Andújar National Park

world best nature holidaysAgustin Ferreiro Abelairas / 500px//Getty Images

Nestled in the province of Jaén in southern Spain, Sierra de Andujar National Park is a nature lover’s gem. The park is home to the Iberian lynx, the imperial eagle, and the black vulture, but its landscapes are just as enticing. The park's rugged hills and cork oak and Mediterranean pine forests offer much for outdoor enthusiasts, with hiking, mountain biking, and bird watching.

Travel to Andalucía with Country Living in December 2024 to join an expedition to search for Iberian lynx. They’re usually tricky to spot, but travelling during their mating season means you have the best chance of sighting this endangered feline.

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