In an ever-connected world, it’s very easy to feel overwhelmed. All the constant pings, notifications, the endless scrolling… Sometimes, the best way to reset is to go completely off the grid—no Wi-Fi, no screens, just you and your surroundings. Here are 10 places where you can disconnect, slow down and truly recharge.
1. Jämtland, Sweden
The first pick is right in the wilderness of northern Sweden. Lakes, forests and charming little cabins; Jämtland is all about silence, occasionally broken by a wildlife call. If hiking, fishing, or simply just unwinding by the fire sounds like your thing, this is where you should go!
Just be warned: the winters in Sweden are quite harsh, so if freezing temperatures aren’t for you, maybe choose someplace else (or go in the summer).
2. Big Bend National Park, Texas, USA
This is one of the most remote national parks in the U.S. Big Bend is a vast desert expanse with cool mountains and skies shimmering with stars (very little light pollution does that, big city folks!). There’s limited cell service and endless trails, so if you’re craving solitude, this is a retreat you should consider.
3. Karijini National Park, Australia
Karijini in Western Australia is known for its red gorges, waterfalls, and ancient landscapes. It’s so incredibly remote, that you’ll be fully immersed in nature and have nothing to distract you (unless you get distracted by the sound of flowing water and leaves rustling).
4. Gobi Desert, Mongolia
The Gobi Desert is an otherworldly escape. Vast dunes, dramatic cliffs, and traditional yurts––this is a place to reflect. Explore its raw, unspoiled nature, either on foot, on horseback or even on a camel!
5. Isle of Mull, Scotland
Rugged coastlines, lush hills, and historic ruins shape this little haven. Its very limited connectivity and slow pace of life will allow you to fully embrace the exploration of the wonderful quaint villages, and embrace the simplicity of island living.
6. Himachal Pradesh, India
The remote villages of Himachal Pradesh, like Tirthan Valley or Spiti, have breathtaking Himalayan views and an authentic mountain culture. Again–there’s no cell signal and you’ll have to adapt to a much slower pace than what you’re probably used to, so it’s a perfect retreat if quiet contemplation is what you’re looking for.
7. Torres del Paine, Chile
Torres del Paine National Park in southern Patagonia is an off-grid paradise that brings together jagged peaks, icy glaciers, and sprawling grasslands. This is a happy place for trekkers and adventurers alike.
8. Svalbard, Norway
If you’re looking for a (cold) peaceful adventure, head over to the Arctic archipelago of Svalbard.
An Arctic archipelago? You read that right! Its icy wilderness is home for polar bears and northern lights, and will make you feel like you’re on the edge of the world. It’s remote, breathtakingly beautiful… but definitely challenging!
Make sure to pack appropriately and prepare before heading off to Svalbard.
9. Palawan, Philippines
These remote islands in the Philippines are the perfect setting for a digital detox on the beach. Palm trees, traditional bamboo huts, island hopping and exploring the Underground River–how does that sound? Because we can almost guarantee this will make it very easy to forget the digital world for a little while.
10. Wadi Rum, Jordan
Wadi Rum is known as the Valley of the Moon, and its endless desert landscapes are perfect for disconnecting. You can stay in a Bedouin camp under the stars and let the vast emptiness of the desert soothe your mind.
