Traveling slowly is about more than just speed—deeper experiences, meaningful connections, and sustainability. In a world where movement is often measured in miles per hour, and itineraries are packed to the brim, slow travel invites us to pause, breathe, and truly immerse ourselves in a destination. At Under Canvas, we provide the perfect setting for this mindful approach to travel. Here’s how to unplug and reconnect with nature, yourself, and the people around you.
Benefits of Slow Travel
Slow travel deepens your appreciation for a place, creating a lasting connection to its culture and landscape. It’s about leaving space for unexpected moments full of wonder—the kind that becomes cherished memories. Whether exploring national parks, hiking scenic trails, or watching the stars illuminate the night sky, slow travel turns your journey into a restorative retreat, leaving you refreshed and inspired rather than rushed and exhausted. Here’s what you can expect from a slow travel experience with Under Canvas.
Immersion
Slow travel isn’t about checking off bucket-list sights; it’s about letting a destination unfold around you. While you should experience the must-see landmarks—marvel at the arches in Moab or capture the perfect photo at Mount Rushmore—the lines between adventure and retreat blur when you stay in comfort at Under Canvas. Our glamping tents seamlessly blend into the surrounding landscape for an upscale outdoor experience even after you’ve kicked off your hiking shoes. Stay in a luxurious, safari-inspired tent with plush king-size beds, ensuite bathrooms, and private decks, offering the comforts of home while keeping you immersed in nature.
Reduced Stress
Slow travel is about pacing yourself, allowing space for reflection and relaxation. Spending time in nature is a proven way to reduce stress, and Under Canvas takes this a step further by offering thoughtfully curated on-site programming. Take part in guided yoga sessions, unwind with outdoor games, explore your creativity with painting workshops, or enjoy live acoustic music under a canopy of stars. Every evening, gather around the fire pit for a time-honored tradition: roasting s’mores and sharing stories. It’s about savoring the moment rather than rushing to the next thing.
Authentic Experiences
Connect with the land and its people. From a lobster and oyster ecology tour in Maine to fly fishing in Montana, or even guided stargazing and astrophotography at the Grand Canyon, every experience is designed to connect you to a place in a more profound, meaningful way. At Under Canvas, we partner with top guides and local experts to offer immersive, region-specific adventures. Take the time to visit local towns, shop small, and stroll through galleries to learn what makes each destination special and unique.
Sustainable Practices
At Under Canvas, sustainability is woven into everything we do, from low-impact development and resource conservation to our amenities. Our Grand Circle camps are the world’s first DarkSky-certified resorts, minimizing light pollution while maximizing starry night views. We partner with brands that share our commitment—tents are stocked with EO®’s plant-based bath products made in a zero-waste facility, furnished with sustainably sourced West Elm pieces, and guests can shop or borrow lululemon yoga gear, a brand committed to 100% renewable electricity. Staying with Under Canvas means aligning your travels with responsible, mindful practices.
Tips for Embracing Slow Travel
Plan to Take Some Extra Time
Extend your stay and avoid overpacking your itinerary. Allow room for spontaneous moments, unexpected delights, and meaningful interactions. Instead of rushing through multiple stops, spend a week in one location and let yourself sink into the experience.
Research with Purpose
Learn a little about your destination before you go. Understand its history, culture, and natural wonders. While you’re there, talk to locals, ask for recommendations, and seek out experiences that get you to the heart of the place.
Choose Smaller, Sustainable Accommodations
Opt for eco-resorts, boutique hotels, and unique stays that prioritize sustainability. Smaller properties often offer a more intimate, personalized experience that aligns with slow travel values.
Connect with the Culture
Find ways to connect with the local community—whether through food, art, music, or outdoor adventures. Supporting local businesses, artisans, and guides enriches both your experience and the places you visit.
Under Canvas is Your Base for Slow Travel
With thoughtfully placed camps around the U.S., Under Canvas offers the perfect retreat for those looking to embrace slow travel. Wake up to breathtaking landscapes, savor locally inspired cuisine, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the great outdoors—all while enjoying the comforts of a luxurious tented camp. Each Under Canvas location provides a unique connection to its surroundings, whether it’s the red rock formations of Moab, the misty mountains of the Smokies, or the wild beauty of Yellowstone. Unplug, unwind, and discover the true essence of slow travel at Under Canvas.