7 Peaceful summer destinations, perfect for over 50s

Summer is your time to escape the noise, recharge, and explore the world at your own pace. Whether you dream of sun-drenched coastlines, charming countryside retreats, or lakeside strolls, the perfect peaceful destination is waiting for you.

Ready to get inspired? Here are our top peaceful summer destinations, perfect for over 50s.

1. The Amalfi Coast, Italy – coastal calm and Mediterranean magic

The Amalfi Coast is famous for its dramatic cliffs and colourful villages – but it’s also known for attracting summer crowds. The good news? With a little planning, you can enjoy its iconic beauty in peace.

Ravello, perched high above the coast, offers stunning views and peaceful gardens. Explore the charming Villa Cimbrone, with its panoramic terrace overlooking the sea, or wander the peaceful lanes lined with fragrant lemon trees. Nearby Atrani, Italy’s smallest town, boasts sleepy piazzas and quiet beaches.

Top tips for avoiding the crowds:

• Stay in Ravello or Atrani rather than Positano
• Explore early mornings or evenings
• Choose small, family-run guesthouses for a more peaceful stay

Relaxed coastal living, rich Italian culture, and quiet corners – the Amalfi Coast delivers it all when you know where to look.

2. The Algarve, Portugal – sunshine, seafood and seaside serenity

The Algarve’s endless sunshine and golden beaches have long made it a favourite, but beyond the busy resorts lies a peaceful side that’s perfect for over 50s.

In the east, Tavira is a hidden gem with cobbled streets, quiet squares, and uncrowded beaches. It’s ideal for slow strolls along the river, café-hopping, and boat trips to the peaceful offshore islands. Further west, Carvoeiro offers a relaxed pace, cliffside walks, and small, sheltered coves perfect for swimming.

Why it’s perfect for a peaceful escape:

• Short flight times and English is widely spoken
• Beautiful coastal scenery without the crowds
• Easy-access promenades are ideal for gentle strolls
• Over 300 days of sunshine a year

Whether you choose quiet fishing villages or clifftop viewpoints, the Algarve combines relaxation and sunshine.

3. Kefalonia, Greece – laid-back island life and hidden beaches

For those dreaming of a Greek island escape without the crowds, Kefalonia is a true gem. Unlike Santorini or Mykonos, this lush Ionian island offers sleepy fishing villages, unspoilt beaches, and a relaxed pace of life.

Stay in peaceful villages like Assos or Katelios, where harbourside cafés and gentle coastal walks await. Explore the famous Melissani Cave, best visited early in the day for a tranquil experience, or discover quiet coves tucked along the coastline.

Highlights include:

• Unspoilt beaches with crystal-clear waters
• Family-run tavernas with sea views
• Gentle boat trips to hidden spots

With its calm atmosphere and scenic beauty, Kefalonia is ideal for a stress-free island escape.

4. Lake Bled, Slovenia – Alpine scenery and fairytale peace

Nestled in Slovenia’s Julian Alps, Lake Bled feels like it’s straight from a postcard. Its emerald-green lake, tiny island church, and forested hills create a peaceful, picture-perfect setting – ideal for over 50s seeking relaxation without the crowds.

The lakeside path is flat and easy to navigate, with plenty of quiet spots to stop and take in the views. Enjoy a traditional pletna boat ride to the island, or explore nearby towns like Radovljica, known for its medieval charm and tranquillity.

Top tips for a peaceful visit:

• Visit in early mornings or later in the evening
• Stay outside the central town in lakeside hotels or guesthouses
• Explore the nearby countryside for added quiet

Lake Bled is the perfect combination of natural beauty and peace, without the hassle of large tourist crowds.

5. Madeira, Portugal – island gardens and subtropical calm

Known as the “Island of Eternal Spring“, Madeira is a peaceful subtropical paradise that remains surprisingly uncrowded, even in summer. This Portuguese island, set in the Atlantic, is famous for its lush botanical gardens, dramatic cliffs, and laid-back atmosphere.

In the capital, Funchal, stroll through peaceful parks, enjoy panoramic viewpoints, or take the cable car to Monte for stunning coastal vistas. Outside the city, explore quiet coastal towns, forest trails, and secluded beaches.

Reasons why over 50s love Madeira:

• Mild temperatures year-round
• Easy-going atmosphere and safe environment
• Stunning gardens and gentle walking routes
• Excellent seafood and charming markets

Madeira offers the beauty of an island escape, with a calm, refined pace perfect for relaxation.

6. The Canadian Rockies by train – world-class scenery, zero crowds

For a truly unforgettable experience, discover the Canadian Rockies aboard the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer train. Glide through jaw-dropping landscapes of towering peaks, sparkling lakes, and vast forests all from the comfort of your seat.

Enjoy panoramic windows, gourmet meals, and attentive service as you wind your way through Canada’s wilderness, far from the crowds.

It’s ideal for over 50s because there’s:

• No strenuous activity required
• Exclusive, crowd-free experience
• Nature, wildlife, and scenery without lifting a finger

It’s the perfect way to experience Canada’s wild beauty at your own pace.

7. Paxos, Greece – Greece’s peaceful island secret

If you love the idea of Greece but want to avoid busy islands, Paxos is your hidden gem. Just a short ferry ride from Corfu, Paxos remains delightfully untouched, with sleepy villages, crystal-clear bays, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.

Gaios, the island’s harbour town, is perfect for gentle exploration. Wander the waterfront, enjoy fresh seafood, or take a boat to nearby Antipaxos, known for its quiet beaches and clear turquoise waters.

The island’s highlights include:

• Small, walkable villages with charming harbours
• Secluded beaches and coves
• Laid-back cafés and authentic Greek hospitality

For an unspoilt, crowd-free island escape, Paxos is the perfect peaceful retreat.

Find your peaceful place this summer

The world is full of beautiful, peaceful places waiting to be discovered. 

Whether you’re strolling through charming Greek villages, relaxing beside a quiet Alpine lake, or watching the world go by on a luxury train through the Canadian Rockies, your perfect summer escape is out there. Crowd-free and at your own pace.

And with our specialist Travel Insurance for over 50s, you can enjoy every step of the journey with confidence. This summer, your adventure can be as peaceful as you want it to be.