12 Countryside Destination Ideas for When You Need to Fully Unplug

When the stress of daily life and work starts to get overwhelming, it’s only natural to want to escape the real world for a while. While we all have our own ideas of what an ideal getaway looks like, more and more travelers are ditching big cities in favor of the wide-open spaces and slower-paced lifestyle of the countryside. A recent report from luxury travel advisor resource Classic Vacations noted countryside escapes as one of this year’s biggest rising travel trends. In an increasingly digital, “always on” world, it comes as no surprise that more travelers are seeking out rural destinations that provide a break from the constant hustle and bustle.

If this sounds like exactly the type of vacation you need, keep scrolling for some countryside destination ideas, from small-town farm getaways to elevated wine country visits, that will offer a reprieve. Here’s to planning a trip that will leave you feeling restored and refreshed long after you return home.

1. Great Smoky Mountains, Tennessee

Venturing into the mountains is one of the best ways to truly disconnect. While western states like Colorado are go-tos, this peaceful corner of Tennessee offers a similarly tranquil experience on the eastern side of the U.S. Spend slow mornings enjoying your cup of coffee while listening to the birds chirp, then get active with a hike to a waterfall or a horseback riding lesson. This destination is known for its views of beautiful rolling hills, farm-to-table dining experiences, and cozy accommodations. Peak times for a visit include fall and spring, when the weather is most comfortable and wildflowers are in bloom.

Where to stay: Blackberry Farm, RT Lodge

2. Sonoma County, California

When in doubt, you can never go wrong with a trip to wine country. California’s Sonoma County has a ton to offer far beyond wine tasting—think hiking, floats down the Russian River, and kicking back at the spa. While you could stay in downtown Healdsburg to be right in the middle of the action, I recommend venturing out a little further to really immerse yourself in the gorgeous landscape. Appellation Healdsburg, for example, is located just outside of town and set on 8.5 acres of lush countryside where you can bask in the extra space and time with your own thoughts. Enjoy the property’s two swimming pools, culinary gardens, and suites with private terraces overlooking the vineyards or mountains. Or book a stay at Dawn Ranch, where you can take advantage of their complimentary forest bathing experience to slow down and soak up the healing benefits of nature.

Where to stay: Appellation Healdsburg, Dawn Ranch

3. Hudson Valley, New York

Within driving distance of major metropolises like New York City, Philadelphia, and Boston, the Hudson Valley is worth the trek when you want to escape the city. Even if you don’t live on the East Coast, it’s become a coveted destination thanks to the arrival of upscale accommodations like Wildflower Farms and Troutbeck. The valley itself is huge, spanning over 7,000 square miles of rural farmlands, bucolic landscapes, and quaint villages. If you decide to splurge and stay at Wildflower Farms or Troutbeck, expect to see fruit orchards, wildflowers, and curving rivers—the kind of scenery that naturally forces you to take a deep breath. The overall experience is elevated countryside luxury, but the magic is found in the slower moments—feeding farm animals, wandering along forested footpaths, and sneaking away to the sleepy towns that make this region so special.

Where to stay: Wildflower Farms, Troutbeck

4. Texas Hill Country

Although the region technically includes Austin, Texas Hill Country somehow feels worlds away from the bustling city. Here, you can embrace the slower pace of life in the countryside, but you’ll still have plenty of options for activities to fill your itinerary. Spend your days antiquing, floating the Guadalupe River, or wandering through lavender farms. In the evenings, settle in for a meal made with local ingredients or catch live music under the stars. This part of the Lone Star State invites you to kick back and relax without sacrificing great food, culture, and a touch of excitement.

Where to stay: Albert Hotel, Camp Lucy

5. Kohler, Wisconsin

Midwest gals, say hello to your ideal weekend destination! Located about an hour’s drive north of Milwaukee, Kohler is often overlooked, but its world-class spas, stunning walking trails, and wellness-focused activities make it a relaxing place to reboot your nervous system. The area is quiet, polished, and understated while offering a good dose of both culture and nature. For those hoping to sneak in some extra self-care time, book a treatment at the five-star Kohler Waters Spa. To optimize relaxation for all guests, the spa is a digital device-free space, making unplugging a top priority.

Where to stay: Kohler Cabin Collection, The American Club

6. Willamette Valley, Oregon

For a more under-the-radar wine country experience, consider a trip to Willamette Valley, Oregon. This spot offers the same peaceful country feel of Napa, but it’s often more affordable and relaxed. Fill your itinerary with scenic drives, tastings at boutique wineries, and visits to idyllic small towns with fewer crowds. The Allison Inn & Spa is a popular lodging option that touts itself as a secluded paradise in the valley, enveloped by lush vineyards and farmland. During your stay, take an outdoor yoga class in the property’s estate garden, surrounded by mature trees in a serene nature setting.

Where to stay: Abbey Road Farm, The Allison Inn & Spa

7. Woodstock, Vermont

This cozy Vermont town has been on my bucket list for quite some time. It’s highly popular during the fall thanks to its vibrant foliage and charming, Gilmore Girls-esque accommodations. Regardless of the time of year you visit, Woodstock offers a slower pace that every traveler can appreciate. Split your time between hiking, coffee shop hangs, covered bridge drives, picnics by the river, and stops at local farm stands. For a dose of civilization, head to the historic downtown, which is lined with boutiques, pottery shops, specialty food stores (think locally produced cheese and maple syrup), and restaurants. A visit here will make you feel like you walked into a Hallmark movie.

Where to stay: The Jackson, Woodstock Inn & Resort

8. Blue Ridge Mountain region, North Carolina

Looking for a place that feels adventurous yet restorative? Western North Carolina, home to a portion of the Blue Ridge Mountains, offers just that. Between fresh mountain air and scenic overlooks, this is a stellar destination for travelers who are looking to stay active while still unwinding. The Horse Shoe Farm provides a beautiful place to settle in, offering a captivating blend of rustic farm life and unique wellness experiences inspired by the land. Guests can frolic around the farm or indulge in nature-inspired spa treatments in a converted horse stable. Another standout activity on the property is The Ponder Wander, a self-guided exploration of the grounds, which encourages you to reconnect with nature.

Where to stay: The Horse Shoe Farm, Skyline Lodge

9. Litchfield Hills, Connecticut

Winding countryside roads and gorgeous state parks await in Litchfield Hills, Connecticut. Just a two-hour drive from Manhattan, this destination offers loads of classic New England charm. Similar to Woodstock, you’ll find boutique shops and award-winning farm-to-table restaurants amidst a leisurely way of life and a picturesque backdrop. Mayflower Inn and Spa is one of the area’s most iconic luxury hideaways, noted as an exquisite country retreat that’s set on 58 acres of beautifully landscaped gardens and woodlands. A stay here will transport you back to a simpler time, when picking up your phone or checking social media was the last thing on your mind.

Where to stay: Mayflower Inn and Spa, The Litchfield Inn

10. Carmel Valley, California

Carmel Valley is the place to go for quiet, slow-paced luxury. While many travelers frequent the storybook-esque village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, the valley is an equally special spot that often has sunnier weather (less coastal fog) and an even more laid-back vibe. For a countryside feel combined with modern-day luxuries, book a room at Carmel Valley Ranch. The property is set on over 500 acres and has a working farm, beehive sanctuary, and gardens where many of the ingredients served at the hotel’s restaurants are grown. Bernardus Lodge & Spa is another favorite, tucked back further into the valley near a tiny, old town that’s home to several wine tasting rooms.

Where to stay: Carmel Valley Ranch, Bernardus Lodge & Spa

11. Kennebunkport, Maine

Craving a coastal getaway with a slower, quieter pace? Kennebunkport is the perfect choice. The vibe is Nancy Meyers meets coastal grandmother, and it’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself wanting to return to year after year. Spend your days strolling along the water, needlepointing in a cozy cottage, or browsing charming boutiques and independent bookstores. If you’re in the mood to venture out, take a scenic drive up the coast to admire historic lighthouses and dramatic rocky cliffs. While it may be a seaside destination, its relaxed rhythm and natural beauty offer the same peaceful escape you’d expect from the countryside.

Where to stay: Hidden Pond, White Barn Inn

12. Northwest Georgia

There’s nothing like Southern hospitality, and sometimes a bit of friendly interaction can be all you need to reset. Settle into a slower rhythm in the small town-dotted landscape of northwest Georgia, where connection and togetherness are core values of locals and visitors alike. Located outside a quaint town called Adairsville, Barnsley Resort is a property I have on my personal must-visit list. It boasts a lake you can canoe on, trails for afternoon horseback riding, a golf course, spa, and welcoming cottages and guest rooms that are filled with character. A stay here wouldn’t be complete without indulging in a starlit dinner and s’mores around the fire pit.

Where to stay: Barnsley Resort, Sage Cottage

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kara Thompson, Contributing Home Writer

Kara Thompson is a Denver-based journalist with a bachelor’s in journalism from the University of Oregon. In 2022, she left her full-time job as an editor and started her own writing, editing, and social media firm, Kara Thompson and Co. She has over five years of experience writing lifestyle content for publications including townandcountrymag.com, elledecor.com, goodhousekeeping.com, and Parents, where she covered all things home, food, health, travel, fashion, and holidays.

READ KARA’S FULL BIO

The post 12 Countryside Destination Ideas for When You Need to Fully Unplug appeared first on The Everygirl.