The harmful impact of high noise levels, such as sleep disorders and hypertension, is becoming increasingly apparent.
ADVERTISEMENTAs urban environments become increasingly overcrowded and noisy, it’s not surprising that vacationers are seeking out peaceful and serene destinations.
An emerging trend known as ‘silent tourism’ may provide a solution. According to data from the social network Pinterest, there has been a significant increase in searches for ‘peaceful locations’ and ‘tranquil spots’, with a particular emphasis on mindfulness-based activities like forest hikes, mountain lodges, and island getaways.
Escaping to quieter environments is more than just a passing fad. Noise pollution, categorised by the World Health Organisation as harmful or unwanted outside noise resulting from human activities, can lead to serious health issues such as disturbed sleep and elevated blood pressure. Noise levels are on the rise globally, with over 40% of Europeans exposed to potentially harmful transportation noise levels.
“Our daily life is filled with noise and uncontrollable interruptions, much of which cannot be avoided in busy urban areas,” explains Greg Scott, founder of SoundPrint, an application that assesses city noise levels. “People’s desire for quieter vacations can be seen as a need for a break from all this noise.”
Fortunately, there are more peaceful destinations readily available. Here’s a look at some quiet spots in Europe.
Experience tranquility in Powys, Wales
With its vast green landscapes, stunning moorlands and ancient heritage sites, Powys has always been a top pick for those who enjoy serene countryside.
In 2023, research from the accommodation website Cottages in Northumberland named it the ‘top location for peace and quiet’. With a mere 26 individuals per square kilometer, the region guarantees silence.
Stargazing enthusiasts will also find the area appealing – it is the UK’s second-best location for dark sky sites.
Experience low noise levels in Zurich, Switzerland
Even though it’s a city, Zurich remains a far cry from the typical chaos of city life. It was named the world’s least noisy city in a 2021 study conducted by hearing technology firm Mimi, using World Health Organisation data.
Its snow-capped mountains, peaceful lakes, and walkable streets earned Zurich the title of Europe’s most liveable city earlier this year.
Discover serene parks in Parc del Montnegre, Spain
Located in Barcelona’s Montnegre Massif, this mountainous terrain was declared Spain’s first Urban Quiet Park by Quiet Parks International in 2021.
Only a short 40-minute drive from Barcelona, millions of people live near this 15-hectare natural area, which features pine forests and medieval churches.
Escape to the peaceful islands of Bohuslän coast, Sweden
Situated on the northernmost part of Sweden’s west coast, Bohuslän was identified by the European Environment Agency as one of Europe’s quietest regions.
Known for its stunning coastlines and Bronze Age art, Bohuslän is home to picturesque fishing villages, nature reserves, and over 8,000 islands dotted with distinctive red boathouses.
Travel to a sanctuary for silence in the Hoh Rain Forest, Washington
Outside Europe, this protected forest in western Washington state is one of the most diverse ecosystems in the United States.
ADVERTISEMENTDesignated as a sanctuary for silence by the sustainability foundation One Square Inch of Silence on Earth Day 2005, it has since been preserved as a zone free of noise pollution, devoid of air tourism and roads.
