Find Your Zen in These Top 10 Spiritual Destinations

First on our travel list are California’s majestic redwoods. These cathedral-like trees can grow as wide as 3ft and as high as 360ft – that’s the equivalent of 12 double-decker buses stacked on top of each other! It’s no surprise that these ancient trees are the tallest and largest in the world. Being amongst the 2,000-year-old giants is an incredibly humbling and calming experience. Touch their bark, hug the trunks, sit down and lean your back against the strong frames, and connect with nature in one of the most unique and magical settings. You’ll quickly realise just how small you are, and how magnificent Mother Nature truly is.

Find your zen: Quiet hikes, meditate under the trees, and connect with nature in one of the world’s oldest forests.

Next, we have the breathtaking Himalayas, a mountain range that’s truly goosebumps-inducing. Peaks soaring over 29,000ft create a dramatic backdrop for reflection and adventure. Many come here for pilgrimage and meditation, often in monasteries perched on cliffs, seeking enlightenment. As you soak in the panoramic views, you’ll feel the weight of the world lift off your shoulders. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and let the tranquillity of this majestic region wash over you. Whether you’re wandering through quaint villages or trekking along ancient trails, the Himalayas offer a connection to the Earth and its wonders, something that’s hard to find elsewhere.

Find your zen: Trekking, meditation retreats in monasteries, and connect with the deeply spiritual aura of the mountains.

If you close your eyes and think of a postcard-perfect Southeast Asian paradise, it would probably look something like Palawan – one of the Philippines’ hidden gems.

This tranquil escape, often hailed as the “Last Ecological Frontier of the Philippines”, offers an enchanting mix of pristine beaches, dramatic limestone karsts, and abundant wildlife. Snorkel in the clear azure waters of El Nido and Coron, or float weightlessly into a calm, meditative state as vibrant marine life swims below. Explore hidden lagoons, kayak through serene landscapes, or unwind on soft, white sands, as gentle waves provide the perfect soundtrack for your inner thoughts. Don’t miss the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, where an underground river meanders through awe-inspiring rock formations. Palawan truly offers countless ways to reconnect with nature and discover your inner zen.

Find your zen: Kayak through lagoons, explore hidden beaches, and experience solitude in nature.

If you want to experience what heaven on Earth feels like, look no further than South Ari Atoll, in the Maldives. This remote paradise is perfect for those who wish to strip themselves of all stresses in a setting that evokes pure bliss and relaxation. With crystal-clear waters, powdery white sands, and lively coral reefs, this destination is ideal for mindfulness – and snorkelling alongside manta rays and vibrant marine life. Explore secluded sun-kissed islands or take a peaceful boat ride at sunset, where you can watch the sun and your worries sink below the horizon.

Find your zen: Snorkel, meditate on the beach, and practise yoga in serene settings.

This natural wonder captures the hearts and souls of onlookers in just one glance. Carved by the Colorado River, this magnificent landscape is a quiet masterpiece of red rock formations that stretch as far as the eye can see. No photo can truly do it justice. The silence is broken only by the gentle rustle of the wind and the distant call of birds. Walk along the rim or hike into the canyon, and it’s hard not to feel your worries shrink in the presence of such vast beauty. Each moment spent here is incredibly grounding and introspective. 

Find your zen: Peaceful hikes along the rim or into the canyon, meditative moments at sunset, and absorbing the timeless beauty of the landscape.

Next, we have Japan's tranquil Mount Koya, a spiritual centre of Japanese Buddhism. This sacred, forested mountain offers unique temple stays where you can immerse yourself in meditation, prayer, and the peaceful monastic lifestyle. Surrounded by lush forests and serene temples, it’s a relaxing retreat for those yearning for deep self-reflection and inner calm. As you wander through the tranquil grounds, feel tension melt away, leaving you with a lingering sense of calm. 

Find your zen: Stay at a monastery, meditate in temples, and explore the mystical Okunoin Cemetery.

The Uyuni Salt Flats in Bolivia is an equally surreal and enchanting landscape that captivates the senses. This vast expanse of gleaming white salt stretches endlessly, creating an otherworldly mirror effect during the rainy season that beautifully reflects the sky. As you walk across this unique terrain, you’ll feel a sense of peace envelop you. The silence and solitude of the salt flats allow for quiet contemplation as you connect with nature and yourself.

Find your zen: Walk on the reflective flats, quiet meditation, and stargaze in a landscape that feels timeless and infinite.

You don’t find peace at Lake Bled – peace finds you. Surrounded by lush mountains, forests, and featuring a small charming island church, this idyllic alpine lake is a spiritual place for you to unwind and connect with nature. Stroll along the lakeside or take a peaceful rowboat to the island, and your mind will soon become as still as the waters you row on. The gentle sound of the water and the fairytale-like nature of the landscape will enrich your spirit, grounding you firmly in the here and now. Lake Bled is easily one of the most peaceful spots in Europe.

Find your zen: Row to the island, meditate by the lake, and hike in the peaceful forests.

Tassili n'Ajjer, a UNESCO World Heritage site in the Sahara Desert, feels like stepping into another world. This vast plateau, dotted with ancient rock formations and desert landscapes, inspires many with its stark beauty and grandeur. As you wander through its canyons and discover prehistoric rock art, you’ll instantly find a renewed appreciation for nature. Escape the hustle of everyday life and marvel at the quiet beauty of the landscape. Whether exploring unique flora and fauna or meditating under a starlit sky, Tassili n'Ajjer offers a calming escape from the chaos of everyday life.

Find your zen: Explore ancient petroglyphs, meditate under the stars, and experience the silence of the Sahara.

You can’t have a “Find Your Zen” travel list without including Bali. This popular spiritual destination is home to the serene Tirta Empul, a sacred water temple that embodies the spiritual essence of Bali. Known for its holy spring water, this tranquil oasis invites visitors to partake in purification rituals, fostering a deep connection to the spiritual and natural world. 

As you walk among the lush gardens and ornate temple structures, the soothing sound of flowing water enhances the peaceful atmosphere. Participating in a cleansing bath allows you to release stress and embrace inner calm. Surrounded by the vibrant greenery and the gentle energy of the site, Tirta Empul offers a unique opportunity to reflect, recharge, and replenish your soul in a beautiful Balinese sanctuary.

Find your zen: Participate in the water purification ritual, meditate by the temple, and explore the lush surroundings.

These places offer more than just inspiring views – they’re all about grounding yourself, finding peace, and reconnecting with nature or something deeper. Whether you're looking to meditate, reflect, or simply escape the daily grind, these destinations can help you find that inner calm.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the chaos. Visiting spots like these reminds you to slow down, breathe, and really take in the moment. And the best part? The sense of peace you find doesn’t end when your trip does – it sticks with you long after you’ve got home. From the ancient redwoods of California to the serene temples of Japan, each of these places offers a chance to reset, recharge, and relax.

So, why not make your next trip more than just a holiday? Make it a journey to find your zen – because, at the end of the day, the real destination is a more relaxed and balanced version of you.