While summer destinations are often busy and swarmed by crowds, winter holidays are mainly reserved for more calming, serene experiences away from the masses.
New research from BookRetreats.com has mapped out the world’s top destinations for true relaxation in its Holiday Relaxation Report, released this December, which assessed 76 vacation spots to identify the 25 most peaceful locations for 2025.
The study evaluated five key aspects of relaxation: safety, solitude, serenity, nature, and wellness.
Rankings were based on various factors, such as the percentage of protected areas, forest coverage, crowd density, noise levels, overall tranquillity, and the availability of wellness experiences in each location.
Measured against the study’s overall parameters, Australia took the top spot in the Global Relaxation Index, scoring 73.8 out of 100, offering a peaceful retreat that has become increasingly rare in busy European destinations.
Canada followed closely in second place, with just 3.9 people per square kilometre, making it North America’s only entry in the top 25.
Notably, the country also boasts 34.81 percent forest coverage, more than 4,700 wellness experiences, and natural wonders like the Northern Lights.
And in the third spot, the uniquely beautiful country of Iceland emerged as Europe’s most relaxing destination.
Not only is it the world’s most peaceful country according to the 2024 Global Peace Index, but it also scores highest in the serenity category of the report, excelling in noise and light pollution levels.
With one of the lowest population densities, traffic is virtually non-existent, with Icelanders spending just 21.35 minutes in traffic compared to 59.99 minutes in tourist-heavy Costa Rica.
Iceland has become an increasingly popular wellness destination, as its volcanic activity heats natural hot springs, which make for incredible geothermal spas.
The famous Blue Lagoon, for instance, offers a relaxing soak in warm, mineral-rich waters, even while snow falls around you, creating a magical winter experience.
However, those seeking an even more unique experience against the backdrop of the ocean merging with the sky, a sight visible even from inside the sauna, which features floor-to-ceiling windows.
The Icelandic landscape is truly otherworldly, especially during winter. Frozen waterfalls, glaciers, black sand beaches, and snow-covered lava fields create a dramatic, scenic environment that feels like stepping into a different world.
Iceland is one of the best places in the world to witness the aurora borealis, or Northern Lights. The long, dark winter nights provide perfect conditions for viewing this stunning natural light display, which attracts travellers from around the globe.
However, the list of unconventional activities goes on, with possibilities for glacier hiking and ice-caving, as well snowmobiling.
This seemingly-remote country is located just a three-hour flight away from London, with some return flights departing in December listed on travel website Skyscanner for as cheap as £108.