National Parks are becoming more popular for both UK staycations and holidays abroad. These national parks are beautiful areas of nature protected due to their special qualities. In the UK, we have 15 national parks. Let’s take a look at the world’s top parks for a nature experience…
- Yellowstone, USA
- The Peak District, England
- Yosemite, USA
- The Yorkshire Dales, England
- Snowdonia, Wales
- Torres del Paine, Chile
- Kruger, South Africa
- Plitvice Lakes, Croatia
- Kakadu, Australia
- Calanques, France
Watch wildlife at the world’s first national park
Yellowstone in the USA became the first national park in 1872. It has over 2.2 million acres of land, meaning plenty of space for animals to roam free. While you’re here, keep an eye out for large animals such as moose, bears, bison, and elks. There are several wildlife-watching tours in the park that allow you to explore with an expert.
Alternatively, Yellowstone is known for its Geysers and hot spring areas. These hydrothermal features are a popular tourist attraction and Norris is one of the hottest. It forms part of the world’s largest active volcano, also called Yellowstone. The geysers erupt every 20 – 80 minutes so this is where you are most likely to witness this phenomenon.
Get adventurous in the Peak District
The Peak District in the UK is another large national park known for its diverse and welcoming environment. You certainly won’t be bored here, with lots of activities for you to try. Step out of your comfort zone and try caving with an expert in the highest natural cavern, Titan Cave. At 464ft, you will need to be in good shape to abseil through the entrance, but it will be worth it.
If caving isn’t your thing, try air or water sports. There is lots on offer, including sailing, canoeing, or paragliding. Canoeing for example is a peaceful but unique way to explore the park and get close to its wildlife. Plus, this activity is covered as standard with a Free Spirit policy so you can relax and enjoy the experience.
Get cosy in a luxury lodge at the Yosemite National Park
Yosemite in the USA is an excellent nature reserve to visit year-round. In the spring and summer, you will find various animals and activities like boating or swimming. But if you visit in the winter, you’ll think you’ve stepped into a Christmas film. There are many luxury lodges you can stay in with some located in the centre of the snowy landscape. Overlooking the valley, this is the perfect place to spend a night in the warmth before spending a day skiing or snowshoeing.
Alternatively, head to the Curry Village ice rink for some ice skating. It opens over the winter season every year and remains a popular tradition at the Yosemite National Park. This is truly unique and with a snow-covered mountainous backdrop it is a must-try experience.
Go star gazing in the Yorkshire Dales
In the UK, the Yorkshire Dales National Park hosts an annual ‘Dark Skies Festival’. Each year, local businesses around the park host events under the stars. You will experience talks with astronomers, photography classes and even canoeing in the dark. With very low levels of light pollution, it’s no wonder they have been designated as a ‘dark sky reserve’.
Alternatively, head to the Yorkshire Dales during the day to see the natural beauty. You could book yourself onto a cultural cookery course or even learn how to make your own cheese. There is something here for everyone to enjoy.
Hike up to the summit in Snowdonia
In Wales, get your walking shoes on and hike up to the summit in the Snowdonia National Park. Known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, the peak ‘Snowdon’ is over 3,000m tall and attracts over 600,000 people a year. If you are brave enough to take on this challenge, make sure you check all of the guidance available to ensure a fun and safe journey.
Also in Snowdonia are many historical sites and castles for you to explore. In the Harlech castle, you will be able to see Snowdonia and many other mountains from the top of this fort. The castle is very well preserved and has even been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Go site seeing in the Torres Del Paine National Parks
Located in Chile, Torres Del Paine is famed for its turquoise lakes, icebergs and resident pumas. The best time to visit to see these big cats is October-November or March-May as these are the spring and early autumn seasons when the weather is milder. These periods benefit from fewer tourists than in the popular summer months of December – February so you will have even more space to yourself.
While you’re here, take a trip either in a boat or go kayaking to see the icebergs from the Grey Glacier viewpoint. Find yourself in the heart of this biosphere reserve and discover why it is considered one of the most beautiful corners on Earth.
Take a walk on the wild side at the Kruger National Park
Located in South Africa, this is the ideal place to immerse yourself in nature and try to spot the Big Five; Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard, and Buffalo. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled as they are home to 147 different mammal species. There are also many different ways to explore this National Park, whether you book a safari or drive yourself around.
Make this a unique wildlife adventure by booking an experience at the elephant sanctuary. Here you can spend time feeding and caring for these majestic creatures. Watch them as they play in the mud and roam about their habitat while you enjoy lunch after the experience of a lifetime. Plus, this experience can be enjoyed by all ages so get stuck in!
Try the local food at the Plitvice Lakes
In Croatia is the Plitvice Lakes National Park, known for its unique colour-changing lake waters. Immerse yourself in nature and tour one of the seven routes around the lake system. There are also four hiking trails for those more adventurous holidaymakers.
While you’re here, take some time to enjoy the local food at one of the many restaurants. You will have the chance to try handmade pasta and bread in the heart of this National Park. Try the local delicacies such as ‘Fritule’ which is a sweet fried pastry and the ingredients vary depending on the area.
Cruise through the Kakadu National Parks
In Australia, you’ll find the Kakadu National Park which is home to more than 10,000 crocodiles! Take a trip on a Yellow Water cruise through the heart of Kakadu and try to spot some. Also in these wetlands, you will find some of the 60 species of birds that live here.
This experience is year-round so you could visit in the Autumn to try leaf peeping. This is where you visit National Parks during the season change so you can see the leaves change colour. This is a great opportunity to test your photography skills and get those perfect holiday photos.
Go diving in Calanques National Park
France is home to the Calanques National Park where you will find an array of wildlife and activities on offer. Here you have the opportunity to go diving and get up close to the various sea creatures. Underwater you will find slopes, caves and even shipwrecks which encourage the rich habitat and marine wildlife.
To finish your trip, spend some time gently paddleboarding around the shores. You are able to paddle all over the National Park and up to six miles off the coast so there is plenty of space for you to explore. The rocky cliffs will make the perfect background as you paddle around.
Insure yourself for any National Park holiday
Finally, make sure you have covered any activity you plan to do or check what is already covered on your policy. Free Spirit Travel Insurance aims to let you travel without worry. Plus, remember to book your insurance as soon as you book your holiday, so you are covered from the start.
