28 Calm Corners Of The World That Soothe The Soul
In a world that rarely slows down, there’s something profoundly healing about discovering a destination that does. Have you ever craved a place where silence feels like a warm embrace, where the air itself seems to calm your mind?
From forest temples tucked away in Japan’s highlands to sleepy shores in New Zealand where time seems to pause, these 28 soul-soothing retreats are more than just beautiful—they’re restorative.
Whether you’re seeking solitude, reflection, or simply a break from the noise, let this list guide you to places that feel like a deep, exhaling breath. Ready to find your peace?
1. Hallstatt, Austria
When the morning mist envelops Hallstatt, it feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The village, nestled between a shimmering lake and majestic mountains, exudes an ethereal charm that captivates the heart.
Wander through narrow streets lined with pastel-colored houses and feel the tranquility seep into your soul. If you crave peace, the gentle lapping of the lake’s waters will lull you into relaxation.
It’s easy to lose track of time gazing at the reflection of the Alps in the crystal-clear water. Hallstatt is the epitome of serenity in nature’s embrace.
2. Lake Bled, Slovenia
How can a place be so enchanting? Lake Bled is a vision of beauty with its emerald waters and iconic church on a tiny island. The surrounding Julian Alps add a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the lake’s peaceful allure.
This is where your mind finds calmness. Rent a boat and glide across the water, feeling the gentle breeze on your face.
When the sun sets, the landscape turns into a canvas of pastel hues, creating a moment of pure magic. Here, tranquility is not just seen, it’s felt deeply.
3. Jiufen, Taiwan
It’s the blend of history and serenity that draws you to Jiufen. Nestled in the lush hills of Taiwan, this charming village is reminiscent of a classic painting. The lantern-lit streets and traditional tea houses offer a glimpse into a bygone era.
When you wander these narrow paths, the aroma of oolong tea fills the air. The panoramic views of the ocean are breathtaking, a reminder of the peaceful coexistence of nature and human creativity.
Jiufen is a hidden gem where the past and present harmonize in tranquility.
4. Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Japan
Where else can you feel so small yet so alive? Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto is a sanctuary of towering bamboo stalks that sway gently in the breeze. Walking through this natural cathedral, the rustling leaves create a symphony of calm.
The filtered sunlight casts a magical glow, making it a place of reflection and peace. Each step on the soft earth brings you closer to nature’s heart.
This grove is not just a path, but a journey into the soul’s quietude.
5. Isle of Skye, Scotland
If solitude has a kingdom, it lies in the Isle of Skye. With its rugged cliffs and rolling green hills, the landscape is as dramatic as it is peaceful. The ever-changing light adds a sense of magic to the already enchanting scenery.
Where the land meets the sea, there’s a sense of timelessness. The gentle whisper of the wind and the distant cry of seabirds create a symphony of solitude.
This is where the soul finds space to breathe and imagine.
6. Ubud, Bali, Indonesia
Did you know Ubud is the heart of Bali’s spiritual and cultural life? The lush rice terraces and tranquil temples create a serene environment where the spirit feels at home. It’s a place where the sacred and the everyday exist in harmony.
When you walk through the vibrant markets, the scents of incense and spices fill the air. The gentle rhythm of the gamelan music lulls you into a state of relaxation.
Ubud is not just a place, but a feeling of peace and connection.
7. Banff, Canada
Where can you find a slice of heaven on earth? Banff combines towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and endless forests to create a spectacular sanctuary for the soul. The majesty of the Rockies instills a sense of wonder and tranquility.
It’s where adventure meets peace. Whether hiking or simply gazing at the pristine landscape, there’s a profound connection with the natural world.
Banff is a place of inspiration, where the spirit soars higher with each breath of crisp, mountain air.
8. Faroe Islands
Though remote, the Faroe Islands offer a haven of peace. The dramatic cliffs, green pastures, and tranquil ocean create a landscape that captivates and calms the heart. It’s a place where you can feel nature’s raw, untouched beauty.
Imagine standing on a cliff, the wind gently tousling your hair as you gaze at the endless horizon.
The quiet here is profound, broken only by the distant cries of seabirds. In the Faroe Islands, solitude is a cherished companion.
9. Luang Prabang, Laos
When the morning light touches Luang Prabang, it awakens a city steeped in peace and spirituality. The gentle flow of the Mekong River sets a tranquil pace, perfect for introspection and relaxation.
Golden temples rise amidst lush greenery, inviting quiet contemplation. Witnessing the alms-giving ceremony at dawn, where monks in saffron robes walk silently, is a humbling experience.
Luang Prabang is a serene blend of tradition and natural beauty, a balm for the weary soul.
10. Gimmelwald, Switzerland
If peace had a home, it might be in Gimmelwald. This quaint Swiss village, nestled in the Alps, offers an untouched beauty that seems to stop time. Picture-perfect alpine houses dot the landscape, surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
The air is crisp and clear, inviting deep breaths and reflection. Strolling through Gimmelwald, you can hear the gentle tinkling of cowbells and the soft rustle of leaves.
It’s a place where simplicity and nature’s grandeur create a perfect harmony.
11. Bhutan
How does a place remain so untouched by time? Bhutan, with its lush valleys and ancient temples, offers a serene sanctuary for the soul. The air is filled with the soft flutter of prayer flags, whispering peace.
When you walk through this Himalayan kingdom, each step feels purposeful, a journey into spiritual tranquility.
Bhutan’s commitment to happiness and environmental preservation creates a unique atmosphere where peace is a way of life.
12. Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Where relaxation meets beauty, Waiheke Island is a hidden treasure. Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant vineyards, it’s a place where the soul feels rejuvenated. Imagine the sun kissing your skin as you stroll along golden sands.
The island’s laid-back vibe is infectious, encouraging you to savor each moment.
Whether sipping local wine or watching the sunset over emerald waters, Waiheke offers a sanctuary of peace and pleasure.
13. Kotor, Montenegro
This medieval gem, Kotor in Montenegro, cradles the soul in its historic embrace. The old town’s cobbled streets and ancient walls tell stories of a time gone by, while the tranquil waters of the bay reflect the towering mountains.
How can such beauty be real? The gentle lapping of the bay’s waves invites a state of peaceful contemplation.
Kotor is a place where history and nature blend seamlessly, soothing the soul with its timeless charm.
14. Hpa-An, Myanmar
Where the serene countryside meets striking karst mountains, Hpa-An is Myanmar’s tranquil escape. The lush green fields stretch beneath a vast sky, while the Salween River mirrors the beauty of the surroundings.
Imagine drifting down the river at sunset, the world bathed in golden light. In Hpa-An, time slows down, allowing the soul to breathe and the mind to wander.
It’s a place where tranquility is woven into the fabric of life.
15. Amalfi Coast’s Praiano, Italy
Though overshadowed by its famous neighbors, Praiano offers a slice of Italian tranquility. Perched on the cliffs of the Amalfi Coast, its pastel-colored houses overlook the azure sea, creating a picturesque retreat.
The gentle sounds of the waves and the scent of lemons in the air make Praiano a place of sensory delight.
Here, relaxation comes naturally, as the beauty of the coast wraps around you like a warm embrace.
16. Patagonia’s El Chaltén, Argentina
When adventure meets peace, El Chaltén emerges as Patagonia’s hidden gem. Nestled at the base of rugged peaks, this village offers breathtaking views and a sense of solitude.
How does the wind carry such whispers of tranquility? The vast, open landscapes invite exploration and contemplation.
El Chaltén is a place where nature speaks to the soul, encouraging introspection and awe.
17. The Azores, Portugal
Where the ocean meets volcanic beauty, the Azores captivate with their serene landscapes. Lush greenery and dramatic craters create a unique backdrop for relaxation.
Imagine strolling through fields of blue hydrangeas, the air fresh with the scent of the sea.
The Azores offer a tranquil escape, where nature’s wonders inspire peace and wonder.
18. Meteora, Greece
When nature and faith converge, Meteora stands as a testament to serenity. These ancient monasteries perched on towering rock formations create a breathtaking landscape.
The silence here is profound, inviting reflection and peace.
Walking among the giants of stone, the spirit finds a quiet communion with nature and history.
19. Svalbard, Norway
Where the Arctic silence reigns, Svalbard offers a unique tranquility. The snow-covered landscapes and icy fjords create a serene environment.
Imagine the soft pink hues of a polar sunset reflecting off the ice.
In Svalbard, the soul finds peace in the stillness of the Arctic wilderness.
20. Tofino, British Columbia
How does the ocean sing such a soothing song? Tofino, with its sandy beaches and lush rainforests, is a coastal paradise. The gentle crash of waves and the scent of cedar create a calming symphony.
The vibrant sunsets paint the sky with hues of orange and purple, inviting reflection and peace.
Tofino is a place where nature’s rhythm harmonizes with the soul.
21. Nara, Japan
Where history and nature blend, Nara invites peace. The ancient temples and serene gardens create a tranquil atmosphere, while the gentle deer roam freely, embodying harmony.
How does time slow down here?
Nara’s gentle pace and spiritual beauty offer a sanctuary for reflection and peace.
22. Essaouira, Morocco
Where the Atlantic breeze whispers secrets, Essaouira offers a serene Moroccan escape. The whitewashed medina and blue-painted doors create a picturesque setting.
The sound of waves and the scent of sea air invite relaxation and exploration.
Essaouira is a place where history and tranquility dance together.
23. Lofoten Islands, Norway
How does a landscape capture the soul? The Lofoten Islands, with their dramatic peaks and calm seas, offer a breathtaking escape.
The colorful fishing villages add charm to the serene scenery.
Imagine kayaking through the tranquil waters, surrounded by nature’s grandeur. The Lofoten Islands are a place of peace and inspiration.
24. Colchagua Valley, Chile
Where the land whispers tales of wine, Colchagua Valley offers a serene retreat. The rolling hills and lush vineyards create a picturesque landscape.
Sipping Chilean wine under the clear sky, the soul finds relaxation and delight.
Colchagua Valley is a place where nature’s bounty inspires serenity.
25. Siwa Oasis, Egypt
How does the desert hide such a treasure? Siwa Oasis, with its palm trees and crystal-clear springs, is a serene escape in Egypt’s vast desert.
The gentle rustle of palms and the warm sun create a calming experience.
Siwa Oasis is a place where nature’s simplicity inspires peace.
26. Kangaroo Island, Australia
Where wildlife and beauty converge, Kangaroo Island is Australia’s serene retreat. The rugged coastlines and unique wildlife create a captivating landscape.
Imagine watching kangaroos graze under the watchful eye of the sun.
Kangaroo Island is a place where nature’s charm offers peace and wonder.
27. Cotswolds, England
Where can one find quintessential English charm? The Cotswolds, with its honey-colored cottages and rolling hills, offer a picturesque escape.
Strolling through blooming gardens, the soul finds peace and nostalgia.
The Cotswolds are a place where time seems to stand still, inviting relaxation and reflection.
28. Chefchaouen, Morocco
Why is blue so calming? Chefchaouen, Morocco’s blue city, offers a tranquil escape with its vibrant hue. The narrow alleys and vibrant markets create a unique atmosphere.
The gentle Moroccan sun bathes the city in a warm glow, inviting relaxation and exploration.
Chefchaouen is a place where color and peace intertwine.