This scenic train journey offers travellers stunning views of the British countryside as more and more people ditch jam-packed, fast-paced holidays for “slowcations”.
In 2024, British holidaymakers are prioritising some well-earned rest and relaxation, with over three-quarters (81 percent) travelling specifically to de-stress and slow down this summer, according to a new travel survey.
The findings come from luxury holiday provider Scott Dunn’s latest travel trends report, which delves into the latest travel trend: “the slowcation”. Slow travel embraces switching off, detaching from everyday life and taking each day as it comes.
The Caledonian Sleeper service is the perfect way to kick off a relaxing staycation by unwinding on your journey, rather than facing the stress of flying.
The service runs from London Euston to a variety of destinations in Scotland, from cities to the coast to the highlands.
For those wanting to explore the capital, take the 7.5 hour service to Edinburgh, but if spending some quiet time by the sea is more your thing, unwind in the stunning town of Stonehaven.
But one route stands out as a “favourite” of those looking to indulge in a luxury travel experience that also offers views of Scotland’s “fatastic scenery”.
David Crossley from East Yorkshire, said: “My favourite is the Caledonian Sleeper from London Euston to Fort William. It is so special to wine, dine and sleep then awake to breakfast and the fantastic scenery of the West Highlands.”
UK Google searches for “slow travel trips” have also increased by 61 percent in the past three months, and there have been more than 16.3 million posts mentioning the trend on TikTok too.
Simon Lynch, Global Product Director at Scott Dunn, said: “With so many people naming de-stressing as their main reason for booking a holiday; and relaxation as their main priority when they’re away, it’s no surprise that we’re seeing an increased appetite for what has been coined ‘slowcations’ this year.
“Slow travel is more about a mindset as opposed to a pace of movement, it’s exploring somewhere on a deeper level, making space mentally and physically for things to happen spontaneously. For example, taking time to walk in nature, cycle through countryside, engage with the locals or take a long-distance rail journey.”
“Taking a slower and more ‘gentle’ approach to the way that you travel – and making the journey part of your trip – will not only encourage you to relax and unwind quicker, but it will inevitably lead to discovery along the way, and this in turn can help you to make meaningful memories too.”
