Fair sentiments CC but surely you would weigh all of that up first anyway? It doesn't cost a lot to stay current apart from the bi annual renewal (think mine cost £150 or so). If you're going somewhere then do it IFR, it costs the same, you can still look at the view. If you're landing somewhere with an instrument approach, do an instrument approach. Mine cost me nothing at my airfield and I think Doncaster charge a whole six quid. You can fit practice into your normal flights.
However as you say if you fly to enjoy the view and nice weather which of course is an excellent reason to fly then you don't need the rating.