Where to Experience Hygge Summer Travel

The old Danish concept of hygge is quickly becoming a popular inspiration for travel in the United States. The word is used to acknowledge a feeling or moment of pure comfort, relaxation, charm and happiness. Hygge is not necessarily about adopting a lifestyle, but encourages being present and recognizing those special little moments we often take for granted or miss altogether. It can occur over small things, like sipping a cup of great coffee or feeling the warmth of a bonfire.

Here’s a list of summer travel spots where you can easily achieve a sense of hygge.

In the desert:

With views stretching in every direction and a uniquely quiet atmosphere, desert destinations are the perfect places to achieve a sense of inner peace. Head to La Quinta in the Coachella Valley in California for sweeping views and relaxing hikes.

For spa goes, Desert Hot Springs, Calif., will melt your troubles away with the sun, warm dry air and several natural hot springs. Surround yourself with desert greenery and an abundance of sun on a low-key hike in Superior, Ariz. The ruggedness of the region offers a haven for nature lovers who are looking for a more nature-based experience rather than an intense hike.

At the beach:

If sand and surf bring you peace, there are several destinations around the country to relax and unwind. Kennebunkport, on the southern coast of Maine, boasts peaceful, rugged beaches and quiet nature trails. Nantucket, located 30 miles south of Cape Cod, offers a small island vibe with a charming town, complete with cobblestone streets and cozy seafood spots.

Head south to Naples to enjoy calm and quiet beaches, mangrove forests and scenic golf courses, or escape to the West Coast to the stunning La Jolla beach, boasting serene covers of cerulean water.

Finally, what better place to achieve a sense of calm and peace than the Hawai’ian islands? On Lanai, you’re bond to adopt the island’s laissez-faire lifestyle and attitude, and with so much natural beauty surrounding you, you can’t help but experience a feeling of pure bliss and gratitude.

In the mountains:

One of the most surefire ways to achieve a sense of hygge is to surround yourself with nature, and what better place to do that than in the mountains?

Enjoy the bright, uninterrupted stars at night from a peaceful cottage in Lake Placid, N.Y., where you can enjoy gondola rides up the mountain or take to the lake for kayaking. Head west and stroll through the charming town of Telluride, surrounded by the awe-inspiring snow-capped San Juan peaks, or to Bend, Ore., where you’ll find a variety of natural wonders and stunning views from a small, sleepy town.

Regardless of where you go, the beauty of the Danish concept of hygge is that it can be accomplished anywhere with simply a bit more mindfulness, gratitude and self-awareness.