Narrowboats have been in and out of fashion for decades when it comes to holidaying, but in the last few years there’s certainly been a resurgence in people jumping aboard and exploring the UK’s cherished waterways.
Seen as a relaxing getaway, it’s becoming more popular with people wanting to take a break from the busy cities and technology that follows us around, as people look to pay more attention to their mental health.
More and more of us have therapists or seek help from a private mental health clinic and actually, taking a holiday such as a spa break is only an extension of that. So, is a barge holiday too? And just why exactly is it relaxing?
Serene scenery
Of course, one of the most appealing elements of a narrowboat holiday is the opportunity to really immerse yourself in the scenery. The canalside across the UK passes through all manner of landscape, from towering hillsides to towering skyscrapers, lush green fields to quaint villages.
Passing through on the waterways can help you really connect with nature, which is ideal for unwinding and de-stressing.
Unhurried pace
And you’re taking in such landscapes at a slow pace. There’s no hurrying on a barge holiday and it forces you to slow down. While on land we may be keen to get from A to B as quickly as possible, you simply can’t here.
While you can set your own pace and explore at your own leisure, you can only go so fast, which can be really helpful in switching off and giving you the time to truly switch off and relax, whether that be taking the helm of steering or sitting and reading a book or watching the world go by.
Image by gordon simpson from Pixabay
Quality time with loved ones
With that additional time, it’s a great opportunity to spend time with family and friends. The setting is ideal for bonding, sharing activities and responsibilities on board, as well as ditching the technology for more wholesome ways to pass the time, such as board games or puzzles.
It’s all about relaxation and what better mood to be in when spending time with loved ones?
Exploration and adventure
While for the most part you will be relaxing, there’s also great opportunities to explore too. Every day you’ll find a new destination to moor at, and with that comes the ability to explore towns and cities.
This blend of relaxation and adventure ensures that you have a varied and enriching holiday experience. The excitement of discovering new places adds an element of fun and spontaneity to your trip, keeping it engaging and enjoyable.
Mindful living
Finally, spending time on a barge is really good at promoting a more mindful way of living. There’s only so much space on board, so you can only really take the essentials with you, while that’s the same with what you can do on board when it comes to preparing meals and so on.
The rhythmic flow of the water and gentle humming of the boat itself also aids with that. There’s none of the usual distractions that daily life can bring, just you and the peace and quiet of the waterways. It’s ideal for finding your inner peace, and something you can look to find back when you’re at home on dry land.
Top image by Ffion Hughes from Pixabay
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