Escaping the hustle and bustle of city life and taking a trip to the countryside provides a rejuvenating and invigorating experience. Going out into the countryside for a quiet day out to enjoy with family or friends can be extremely rewarding. However, many people are unsure of what activities are and are not allowed in rural areas, leading to questions and sometimes misunderstandings.
For this reason, in this article we want to break down in detail what yes you can do in the field and what activities are not permitted. In addition, we will offer some tips for enjoying nature in a sustainable way and respecting the environment without violating local or regional regulations.
What you can do in the field
You can be with your family and have a picnic
The countryside offers the ideal setting for a family reunion or a getaway with friends, where you can enjoy a relaxing lunch outdoors. Having a picnic is one of the most traditional and rewarding activities you can do in nature. Not only will you be surrounded by beautiful scenery, but you will also be able to enjoy the fresh air and tranquility of the countryside.
It is important, however, to keep the place clean and not leave any waste behind. If you decide to have a picnic, remember to pack your own reusable utensils and bags to pick up any leftover rubbish you generate. At the end of your visit, be sure to take all rubbish with you to deposit it in the designated bins.
Explore rural areas
Exploring rural areas is another of the permitted and widely recommended activities in the countryside. Rural areas are full of history, traditions and culture that can be extremely enriching. In addition to enjoying their gastronomy, you will also learn about the local culture, ways of life and traditional activities that are still practiced in many of these areas.
While exploring is a valid and permitted activity, it is key to respect local boundaries and make sure you do not trespass on private property without permission. Rural areas are home to many people, so coexistence and respect for spaces and ways of life is essential.
You can do cycling
Cycling in the countryside is a great way to combine sport and nature. Riding along rural paths and roads offers you the pleasure of enjoying dreamlike landscapes and keeping fit at the same time. However, it is important to note that there are paths and roads that require specific permits or are reserved for pedestrians only.
To avoid problems during your bike trip, it is advisable to find out in advance about the available routes and, if necessary, obtain the corresponding permits or hire local guides who know the region and ensure that you comply with the current regulations.
Hiking
Hiking is, without a doubt, one of the most popular activities when enjoying a day in the countryside. There is a wide variety of routes of different difficulty levels, which makes it an accessible activity for both the most experienced and those who simply want to enjoy a quiet walk.
Before venturing out on any route, be sure to check the weather conditions and plan your route in advance. Some areas may have restrictions due to environmental protection or specific risks such as fires or landslides. In addition, it is important to bring the necessary equipment with you, including suitable footwear, sufficient water and a small first aid kit.
Outdoor games
Children, and adults alike, enjoy outdoor games as part of the country experience. From the classic ball game to flower picking or wildlife watching, the countryside is full of opportunities for fun.
It is important to note that, although games are more than welcome, it is essential that activities that may cause harm to local flora or fauna are avoided. Therefore, any collecting (of flowers, plants, mushrooms, etc.) should be done carefully, and always following local regulations regarding protected species.
Swimming pools in the countryside
In many rural areas, especially in country houses or rural accommodations, it is common to find swimming pools that allow visitors to relax and cool off during hot days. Swimming pools are especially popular in summer, both for children and adults.
When enjoying a swimming pool in the countryside, it is important to be careful, especially if there are small children. There must be constant supervision while little ones enjoy the water, to avoid accidents. In addition, it is recommended to respect any regulations of the facility or accommodation where the pool is located.
Walking barefoot on the grass
Walking barefoot on grass, although it may sound simple, is a truly comforting sensory experience. Feeling the texture of the earth or the freshness of the grass on your feet allows you to reconnect with nature in a unique way.
Although this is a completely permitted activity, remember to be respectful of the environment and avoid protected areas where human traffic may interfere with the local ecosystem.
Do active tourism with friends
Active tourism has become one of the main trends in the countryside, especially when it is done in a group. Some of the most popular activities include hiking, mountain biking, canoeing or climbing. In addition, in some rural areas you can do adventure sports such as rafting, bungee jumping or other activities that combine nature and adrenaline.
Before embarking on any of these adventures, it is vital to inform yourself about the specific requirements, ensure you have the appropriate equipment, and avoid dangerous practices that could put your safety and that of others at risk.
- Trekking
- Canoe
- Rock Climbing
- Mountain biking
In addition, many rural establishments offer various recreational activities such as wildlife watching, farm visits or tours of orchards. These activities allow tourists to get in closer contact with rural life, something especially attractive for those looking to disconnect from urban stress.
make a barbecue
What better way to enjoy the outdoors than by hosting a barbecue? Barbecues are ideal for enjoying the outdoors and sharing with friends and family. However, it is essential to always do so in designated areas. Especially during times of danger of forest fires, it is strictly forbidden to light fires outside the designated areas.
Always check local regulations and make sure you have the necessary permits if applicable. Also, never leave a barbecue without making sure the fire is completely extinguished.
Bathing in rivers and lakes
A dip in a river or lake is one of the best ways to cool off in summer. However, not all natural areas allow swimming, so it is necessary to make sure that the area is open for swimming.
If the current is very strong or the water is too cloudy, it is best not to take any risks and avoid entering, especially if there are children present.
The countryside offers a multitude of opportunities to enjoy both individually and in groups. But it is always essential to respect local regulations and be aware of our environmental impact in order to preserve nature.