No matter how beautiful the place you live in is, it’s only natural that you get a bit bored of the same walks and views over the years. Foreign destinations suddenly feel much more enticing… But, that is not to say that local landscapes cannot be exciting – you just need to find how to experience it in a unique way!
Change your perspective
The places that you always see may only feel boring because of the perspective in which you view them. For example, you’re always overlooking the sea from the same clifftop or sitting on the same bench on the riverside. Sometimes, all it takes to see it differently is to change that perspective.
Swap the car for a bicycle or a walk, so you can explore the narrow forest paths, where you’ve never been before. If you live near the water, try going on a boat tour or kayaking, to view the coastline from the water. A small change in perspective can make you notice something completely new in the same spot.
Same places at different times
Similarly, changing the time of year or even day that you see a certain spot can help you see it in a new light (literally).
If you have only walked around the woodlands in the summer, for instance, try doing so in spring, autumn and winter. In spring, you will notice flowers blooming and wildlife waking up. In autumn, the trees might go all shades of red and orange, creating a magical atmosphere. If you live in a cold country, the winter will cover those same trees in beautiful silver frost.
The same goes for the time of the day, as the beach will look completely different during the sunrise hours as it does in the midday.
Follow a specific theme
There is so much you may not know about the place you live in, particularly if you dig deep into a specific topic. You may pick a theme you’re interested in, such as local history or art, and let it guide your explorations. Find the hidden gems, such as that ancient church just outside your town or a piece of public artwork tucked in the rural corners.
Themed journeys will add a sense of playfulness and direction, turning every outing into a personal quest – to see new things and learn more about your local area.
Try a local walking holiday
If you want to have a full holiday locally, then a walking holiday will be the perfect way to explore the surrounding landscapes! This means picking a long-distance route nearby and walking 15-25 kilometers each day, until you reach the end point.
During this trip, you will be visiting numerous and staying at numerous different towns and villages, as well as encountering attractions and viewpoints you may have not even known existed. It’s a type of holiday that forces you to slow down and really take your surroundings in.
If you’re not sure where to start, Orbis Ways is an experienced travel agency specialising in walking holidays. They have itineraries across a selection of different destinations, including England, Ireland, Germany, Romania, France, Italy, Montenegro and many others. They will help you find the ideal route nearby and organise all of the logistics for you!
Seeing the everyday with new eyes
Rediscovering local landscapes is all about changing how we experience the familiar. It helps us gain a deeper appreciation for the things that have been right in front of us all along.