There are many nature lovers out there just like you. But unfortunately, most people have to squeeze their sightseeing, hiking, surfing, skiing, and other fun activities into their weekends or summer vacation. And for some, such opportunities only come around once a year.
Maybe this is you. If you now desire to be closer to nature all year round, keep reading.
There is so much inner peace that living next to nature brings. Seeing the waters splashing along the shores, with marine creatures and wildlife all around you, nothing else can bond you closer to Mother Earth.
Therefore, we have compiled some of the best cities to live in if you desire to be close to nature. We’ve made our selections based on proximity to beach life, parks, gorgeous landscapes, cost of living, home costs, and the likes.
So come along, let’s explore together.
1. Albuquerque, New Mexico
As a sunny city surrounded by natural beauty, it’s no wonder this destination features at the top of our list. Located in north-central New Mexico, Albuquerque isn’t a big city but perfect for outdoor activities every day of the year.
The summers are hot and excellent for summer hikes, the winters are mild, and spring and fall offer cozy temperatures. The locals are blessed with heavenly views of blue skies and sunshine about 310 days a year, making the city a hot spot for outdoor lovers and a perfect resort for sporting activities and festivals throughout the year.
You can visit the BioPark environmental center or enjoy hiking in the Albuquerque sunset, and each day would be a whole new experience. For example, the Sandia Mountains at Elena Gallegos turn watermelon-pink in the evening and are such a joy to watch.
In October, you can always come out to the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta to watch hundreds of hot-air balloons rising over the Rio Grande valley ever so magnificently.
If you’re a wine lover, this destination promises to be a delight to your taste buds as it features exquisite award-winning wines at the Casa Rondena Winery.
Regarding real estate in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the median home cost is around $203,500. The cost of living is also slightly less than the average cost of living in the US.
2. Playa Grande, Costa Rica
Located along the north Pacific Coast in Guanacaste province, Playa Grande boasts as one of the best places in the world to enjoy beach life all year round. In addition, the city makes up a major part of the Marino Las Baulas National Park.
The ocean, mountain, garden view lots, and crazy yellow sunset of Playa Grande can be quite an enriching sight all year round. But that’s not all.
The Playa Grande beach is a notable nesting site for the beautiful leatherback turtles. Just as tourists love to do, you can catch a glimpse of the adorable creatures during the day while you surf on the pristine, crystal blue waters.
If you love surfing on warm waters, there’s no better place to catch a perfect wave than Playa Grande.
Although the beach is open to the public, it is only accessible during the day as the police patrol the area at night to protect the leatherback turtles. They are that iconic.
Another reason to live in Playa Grande is its laid-back vibe, natural beauty, and under-crowdedness.
Regarding real estate, you can easily get homes for sale in playa grande costa rica without breaking the bank. You can get two bedrooms, three bedrooms, and duplexes depending on your taste. If you prefer to build your dream home, there are also build-ready lots available
Additionally, expats in Playa Grande can live comfortably well as the cost of living is very reasonable.
While living in Playa Grande, you’ll find the locals very hospitable and outgoing as the destination encourages the spirit of the outdoors. You’ll also get to see tourists from all over the world flocking to the beach to catch a glimpse of the timid Leatherback Turtles.
3. Wellington, New Zealand
Overflowing with natural wonders, including friendly kiwis and beautiful mountains, Wellington truly makes for one of the best places to live right next to nature. Located on the southern tip of New Zealand’s North Island, It’s home to picturesque hilly terrains, skyline views, harbors, waterfalls, and several other remarkable attractions.
It’s also home to Kaitoke Regional Park, one of the most exciting places for nature lovers. The Regional Park features swimming pools and is also famous for numerous entertaining outdoor activities like hiking, camping, boating, and lots more. It’s a perfect destination for people of all ages.
With light filtering through ancient trees and clear babbling brooks and the tranquility that engulfs you as you arrive at the city, you’ll instantly feel yourself relaxing into the tender laps of nature.
Wellington, New Zealand, also makes for a great wildlife photography experience. In fact, the Kaitoke Regional Park was the filming location for Rivendell in the Lord of The Rings.
As a nature lover unintimidated by daring tracks and paths, this is a place to have enough adventure throughout your lifetime. Go hunting, tracking, camping, and relaxing after the day’s activities.
There are small bays of 2000 residential homes near Eastbourne Beach as well. So if you like to live near the beach, this is a place for you.
You can get a 3-4 bedroom home for sale at around $700,000 here.
4. The Faroe Islands
The raw and unpredictable climate, fantastic landscape, steeply mountains, daring cliffs, stunning birdlife, and roaring Atlantic are just a few things that make Faroe Island one of the best locations for nature lovers. This autonomous region of Denmark is located between Scotland and Iceland. Here, you can be one with nature. Living in the Faroe Islands is living right in the heart of nature. You’ll hardly ever be 5km from the sea.
The low population — about 50,000 people — makes the Faroe Islands a tremendously tranquil destination to retire to.
In summer, nighttime lasts for only about 4 hours, and the temperature is around 13 degrees. However, the winter is very mild.
The Faroe Islands have a reasonable cost of living, with rental apartments costing around $1200/month and home sales averaging approximately $256,000.
Bottom Line
If you desire to be one with nature, there are so many options. By considering your budget and tastes for adventure and beautiful landscape, you can live the life you’ve ever wanted right where it’s most practicable.
