Canadians are choosing quietcations for seclusion

A quietcation is a new travel trend focused on digital detox, noise reduction and nature-centric solitude. In 2026, more travelers are choosing quietcations over trips with packed itineraries and the buzz of major cities.

Quietcations shift away from the action-packed, sightseeing-focused vacations many travellers chose in the first few years post pandemic. Now, the travel vibe is minimal itineraries, off-the-grid stays and intentional silence.

More on quietcations, where to go in Canada for a calming atmosphere, and how to plan the perfect quietcation.  

From towering peaks to endless ocean views, Canada’s vast wilderness areas make the country the ideal destination for your next quietcation.

Travelers are skipping Toronto, Vancouver and other major metros in favor of smaller hubs like Tofino or Revelstoke.

Located off the coast of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Tofino is part of the Clayoquot Sound UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, a prime spot for whale watching, surfing, and soaking in hot springs.

Revelstoke, British Columbia is renowned for its mountain scenery, and mountain biking and hiking trails.

Spend your days hiking and nature spotting. “ Gaze at distant snowcapped mountains while splashing barefoot along softly curving beaches,” writes Vancouver Island Travel.

Book a remote cabin in Tofino and spend your evenings on the porch storm watching. Ecotourists flock to Tofino to watch the larger-than-life waves and lightning strikes that characterize Tofino’s Pacific coast storms.

Local hosts are prepared for these epic weather events. “ Guest rooms at Wickaninnish Inn in Tofino come with waterproof gear and huge windows built to withstand 100mph winds,” writes National Geographic.

The heavily forested Laurentians are perfect for seclusion. Book a hidden, lakeside chalet or a Scandinavian-style spa.

The town of St-Adolphe-d'Howard is a haven for travellers seeking tranquil accommodations with waterside views of Lac St. Joseph. Wentworth-Nord is ideal for enjoying natural scenery on Lac Louisa and Lac Laurel.

Scandinave Spa in Mont-Tremblant offers massages and hot and cold therapies amid the backdrop of the gorgeous Laurentians. You can truly unplug here, as the spa is WiFi free. “ We offer a better connection. Disconnect. Recharge. Reconnect.” writes Scandinave.  

“ Gros Morne National Park is one of the country's least-visited parks—but it's also one of the most stunning,” writes Travel + Leisure.
You will have the place to yourself, as less than 250,000 people visit the park annually.
Go see what everyone else is missing. Shaped by the movement of continents and glaciers, the geology and landscape of Gros Morne is incredible to behold. The diverse scenery in Gros Morne includes towering fjords and mountains, lunar-like rocky stretches, and lush forests.

The key to finding your quietcation sweet spot is knowing the difference between “off-grid” and “tech lite.” 

A tech lite quietcation allows limited use of technology, intentionally avoiding apps and devices that disrupt your calm. 

A completely off-grid quietcation means no access to wifi or electronic devices. Choose the best option for your lifestyle. 

Pack a beautiful physical journal and your favorite pen. Bring a physical book you’ve been excited to read. Noise canceling headphones may also give the silence you need at key moments.

If you’re going off-grid or tech-lite, consider downloading maps or purchasing paper maps, so you can navigate your destination. 

Time your trip to shoulder seasons, often fall and spring for many destinations, to avoid crowds. Avoid peak travel holidays.

Practice sustainability during your quietcation. Research spas, resorts and other facilities with high ratings for sustainable practices.

Look for accommodations certified by The Global Sustainable Tourism Council. Sources for finding eco-friendly lodging include Green Key Global, EarthCheck, and booking platforms like Ecobnb.

Look for ways to engage with small communities without disturbing their peace. Book local only tour guides, research cultural norms before you go and buy local.

Many travellers assume their home province’s health plan offers national coverage. But that is often not the case.

You should know that your provincial or territorial health insurance plan may not fully cover you if you experience a medical emergency outside of your home province or territory. 

An Allianz Global Assistance Travel Insurance plan with emergency medical benefits may help you fill health insurance gaps while travelling. 

Quiet-travel often involves high-value, non-refundable bookings. But you never know when an illness, flight cancellation or other life event will get in the way of your plans. 

An Allianz Global Assistance Travel Insurance plan with trip cancellation benefits refunds certain non-refundable expenses, if your trip is cancelled or interrupted mid-way for a reason included in your policy. 

When researching travel insurance options, look for comprehensive plans that include emergency medical and trip cancellation and interruption.

Get a travel insurance quote today to learn how we can help you travel with peace of mind.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, financial, or other professional advice. Allianz Global Assistance is not responsible for the use of external websites or the content or accuracy of external website information.