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A holiday is a chance to relax, and while many people want to do this by lounging on a sunny beach, more people are looking to get into nature to unwind.
Research has looked into this trend, named "stillcations", to find the best places in Europe for a peaceful break, and a beautiful part of Scotland has topped the list.
The study, carried out by walking holiday specialists Inghams Walking, ranked nearly 100 European locations based on how well their surroundings could support a sense of calm and stillness.
It covered factors such as forest cover, population density, opportunities for stargazing, birdsong, the number of walking trails and air quality. These were combined to give each spot a Stillcation Score out of 100.
Wester Ross in Scotland was named Europe’s best destination for a stillcation, picking up a score of 44.74. It was found to be a great place to slow down, step away from hectic schedules and simply 'be'.
The northwest Highlands region is known for its beaches, lochs, pinewoods, glens and mountains. It recorded some of the darkest skies in the study, with a Bortle scale score of one. This is the lowest possible level of light pollution, meaning holidaymakers can truly recharge from the hustle and bustle of daily life as they take in the night sky.
With a population density of around 1.6 people per square kilometre, you won't be caught among busy crowds as you explore the area.
It was one of two British destinations that made the list, and both were based in Scotland. The Outer Hebrides took the number seven spot, with a stillness score of 38.96.
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Europe's top stillcations
However, it was the French Pyrenees that came second with a score of 41.2. Britons visiting the French mountain region can fully immerse themselves in nature.
It boasts an extensive walking network, an impressive 40 per cent forest cover and more than 319 recorded bird species.
Abisko, meanwhile, lies 200km north of the Arctic Circle and is known for its national park and mountain scenery, and lucky visitors can spot the Northern Lights.
