How to Plan a Fantastic Nature Holiday

Going on holiday doesn’t have to mean heading abroad to a sunny resort in Spain and spending a week sitting on the beach. For those who are a little more inquisitive (or have children who’d rather be chasing bugs than building sandcastles), going on a nature-based holiday could be a great idea. You can still strike a good balance of warm weather and relaxation but in a more natural environment than a built-up resort, by following this easy guide.  

Decide Where to Go

Firstly you’ll need to pick somewhere to go. This can depend on a range of factors, such as budget, how far you want to travel and what you want to do. If you’ve got really young children it may be best to stay fairly close to home.

There are loads of top UK destinations for nature lovers, from the Jurassic Coast down in Dorset and Devon with its vast beaches and fossils, up to the Orkney Islands where you can spot seals, whales and dolphins if you’re lucky. For those more adventurous there are plenty of options abroad to explore jungles, forests, mountains and more.

Plan Your Journey

How you get to your base for a wonderful nature holiday will depend a lot on where you’re staying. When it’s only a few hours away, simply driving is probably the best choice in your car, campervan or towing a caravan. This gives you the opportunity to stop off at places on the way too.

For further afield, you might have to fly to your destination. Where possible taking a ferry can be a good way to start your nature adventure though. This way you might spot some marine life and sea birds from the ship’s deck (or at least a few seagulls).

Choose the Right Accommodation

Camping is the ultimate way to truly get close to nature, as you wake up as close to the elements as possible. However, for a little more comfort you could upgrade to staying in a caravan. Plus you’ll be able to move your base around if desired too.

Hotels should really be out of the question but if you really want some level of luxury then staying in a log cabin or wooden lodge will be best. Here you’ll have most home comforts such as a working bathroom, electricity and heating if you holiday in the colder months.

Research Activities

There are all sorts of possible activities to make a nature holiday. Ideas can range from a simple hike through the hills to visiting animal sanctuaries, going whale spotting or cycling along riversides. Think about what’s appropriate for you and your family that everyone will be able to manage and enjoy.

For ease, you might be able to find a guided tour or package deal. Otherwise, you could simply plan a hike and create a nature spotting game for your kids, getting them to tally up how many of a certain bird, animal or plant they see and awarding them points and prizes.

Remember to pack appropriately for whatever type of nature holiday you plan, and most importantly: enjoy it!