When it comes to vacation planning, we might plan our trip around the best beaches or the most jaw-dropping mountains to explore. But, have you ever thought about planning your next vacay around the world’s best forests? There’s nowhere better to surround yourself with nature, take a pause and listen to the peaceful sound of the wind rustling through the trees. From Japan to California, here’s my pick of the world’s best forest destinations…
1. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, which is also called as Sagano Bamboo Forest, is a beautiful natural forest in western Kyoto. It’s also close to the entrance of the Tenryu-Ji Temple. Sagano is a beautiful forest comprising Moso Bamboo (Phyllostachys Edulis) and is made up of several pathways to explore.
This mesmerizing place is considered as a natural soundscape of Japan by the Ministry of the Environment. Popular with visitors, try to visit early in the morning so you have the wood-creaking, leaf-rustling sounds to yourself.
Image source:Eleonora Albasi / Unsplash
2. Hallerbos Forest, Halle, Belgium
This magical bluebell forest is a feast for the eyes and one of the most peaceful forest destinations on the list! Hallerbos is not like any another forest – around mid-April to May the woodland is covered with a purple carpet of bluebells, also known as wild hyacinths. The growth of the bluebells is dependent on the weather and sunshine levels, and the season is short, but if you can book in your trip to Belgium around this time, you won’t regret it.
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3. Humboldt Redwoods State Park, California, USA
This forest of tall and beautiful redwoods comes with a rich history. The original inhabitants of the area were the Sinkyone community, with the Sinkyone Wilderness State Park close by in Mendocino County. Standing in the middle of this state park, is a humbling experience – especially when you consider that the 300-feet tall trees are over 2,000 years old! Head to Rockefeller Forest within the park to see the largest cluster of redwoods.
Image source:Eric Muhr / Unsplash
4. Crooked Forest, Gryfino, Poland
The Crooked Forest is unlike anywhere else in Europe. This grove of 400 oddly-shaped pine trees has elicited many theories!
Some locals think that a unique gravitational pull in this particular area caused the trees to curve. Others guess that the heavy snowfall in the area weighed down the trees as they were sprouting, causing them to grow crookedly at the base. Either way, this slightly spooky spot makes for such as memorable experience.
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5. Monteverde Cloud Forest, Costa Rica
Costa Rica is known for its biodiversity, and the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve is testament to the country’s sheer natural beauty. Reptiles, birds and bats – as well as one of the most varied collection of orchids on the planet (over 500 known species!) – are just some of the wildlife you might spot in this lush reserve, northwest of the capital, San José. Check out Contiki’s trips to Costa Rica to see the cloud forest for yourself!
Image source:Contiki
6. Apricot Valley, China
Apricot Valley is situated in northern China, close to the border of Kazakhstan. During peak season (from June – September) the valley transforms into a majestic sea of pink and white apricot blossom. One of the more unusual forest destinations, the curving and undulating terrain is a sight to behold and perfect for exploring – while munching on apricots, of course.
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