Why are cool weather summer vacations the latest trend?
As the Earth's warming trend continues to rise to relentless heat in the summer months (2025 was the third hottest year on record), we anticipate the coolcation is here to stay.
According to a report by the European Travel Commission, they predict that destinations across Europe will see a shift in demand that may look like:
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A decrease in tourism during the hotter months
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An increase in travel to more temperate destinations in the summer months
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Or more travellers seeking to travel off-peak.
According to Miguel Sanz, president of the ETC, the increase in holiday bookings to cooler countries is also driven by people ‘hunting for alternative travel choices, looking for more affordable experiences or considering off-season travel to stretch their budgets’ more than ever before.
Our Top 5 Coolcation Destinations to Beat the Summer Heat
Escape the sweltering heat of traditional summer destinations (and the crowds) and instead opt for a more relaxed atmosphere as you discover the unique charms, refreshing breeze and milder climates of cooler destinations. With even greater opportunity to enjoy hiking and outdoor activity comfortably in cooler summer locations, this is your chance to discover some real hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path destinations.
There are some absolutely fantastic countries with cooler climates to visit and well-planned itineraries can lead to very enjoyable stays. Read on for our recommendations.
1. Sweden
Discover Sweden’s natural beauty, exploring the Stockholm Archipelago’s unique islands or along the scenic Sörmland Trail. Holidaying in these regions is both literally and figuratively a breath of fresh air. If you're looking for natural beauty or outdoor adventure, this Nordic nation is hard to beat.
In the summer months, enjoy wild swimming, hiking and fishing and the friendly ambience that comes with it. In the cities, enjoy impressive architecture, a strong urban culture and hard to beat fashion and design.
Temperature gauge: Summers are short but can be surprisingly warm, especially during July. Temperatures peak at 21°C. Snow usually lingers year-round in the mountains, offering stunning vistas.
How to get there? With daily departures and direct flights year round from London airports to Stockholm, reach your next summer holiday destination in just over 2h 30 mins at just a fraction of the cost of flying to the Med.
Sörmland Hiking Adventure
Discover the vibrant city of Stockholm before lacing up your walking boots to follow the Sörmland Trail, one of Sweden’s longest and most scenic hiking routes. Explore some of the most picturesque stretches of the trail, walking between 8 and 20 kilometres per day.
Hiking in the Stockholm Archipelago
Hike through Sweden’s stunning Stockholm Archipelago, from Tyresta National Park to Utö and Ornö. Discover ancient forests, empty beaches, dramatic coastlines and quaint villages on a journey blending natural beauty, cultural charm, and adventure.
2. Latvia
Visit a blind spot on most traveller's radar: Latvia. With stretches of stunning and rugged coastline, a vibrant art scene, atmospheric, mist-strewn bogs and Riga's gorgeous Art Nouveau heritage, it's an ideal destination for an adventure.
The country's history and Soviet past can be explored in ancient castles, historic towns, Soviet relics and impressive UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all while enjoying the scenic backdrop of Latvia's natural beauty.
Temperature gauge: Summer temperatures in Latvia sit somewhere between 17 and 22°C, with temperatures peaking in the capital city of Riga.
Interested in giving slow travel a go? The Baltic Sea countries can be reached by a train journey from the UK. From London St Pancras travel overground via Brussels, Berlin, Warsaw & Vilnius. Alternatively, travel by train from London to Stockholm and overnight cruise ferry to Tallinn, then bus to Riga. You can travel between Baltic Sea destinations by public transport or self-drive, using a rental car.
Hiking in Three Baltic Nations
Embark on a walking holiday through the captivating Baltic States of Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia. This region is home to stunning scenery, with particular highlights including the sand dunes of the Curonian Spit and the lush forest trails of Gauja and Lahemaa National Parks.
Trails of the Baltics
This self-guided walking holiday in the Baltics allows you to discover the breathtaking landscapes of Lithuania and Latvia. Explore Vilnius' historic streets, the vibrant city of Riga and the medieval town of Cesis, enjoying a balanced blend of walking, nature and culture.
3. Norway
Come summer, after the snow has melted, Norway's stunning fjords show off spectacular colours and lush green surroundings emerge with flowers in full bloom. It's an idyllic backdrop to hike on some of the world's best trails, cruise or just soak up the views under gorgeous soft sun.
In the northern regions, the unique phenomenon of the Midnight Sun means the sun doesn't set in the summer months, making it possible to take part in unique activities like night hiking in broad daylight.
With cultural events taking place throughout the summer, it's a great time to experience traditional Norwegian culture and enjoy Norway's seafood including fresh salmon, cod and shellfish.
Temperature gauge: Norway boasts mild temperatures, averaging 14-21°C in summer. Weather is warmest and most stable on the eastern side of the southern mountains, including the south coast.
When to go? Visit in June, July and August when Norway is characterised by warm, pleasant weather and extended daylight hours. Summer temperatures are perfect for outdoor pursuits.
Walking in Norway
Explore the breathtaking trails of the Jotunheimen range, where towering peaks have sparked the imagination of mountaineers and artists for generations. Immerse yourself in the region’s lush mountainous interiors and unwind in distinctive accommodation, from historic hotels to classic Norwegian tourist cabins.
4. Canada
Canadian summers bring warm weather and sunshine! There's so much of this country to explore, stretching an incredible 7,564 kilometres from west to east. Thanks to Canada's seemingly never ending network of hiking routes, much of this can even be done on foot. Also home to the most lakes in the world, it's the perfect place to get outdoors, hiking, canoeing, paddleboarding or barbecuing.
Temperature gauge: On the east and west coasts, average high temperatures are generally in the low 20s, while between the coasts the average summer high temperature ranges from 25 to 30°C.
Watch out! It’s not unusual to spot whales off the coast, and depending on the time of year, icebergs making their way south.
Bruce Peninsula Hike
Journey along scenic hiking trails from Lion’s Head to Tobermory, passing through the breathtaking landscapes of Bruce Peninsula National Park and Fathom Five National Marine Park.
Follow the iconic Niagara Escarpment - a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve - winding past lush forests and spectacular coastal vistas, with daily treks ranging from 10 to 20 kilometres.
East Coast Trail
Discover the most breathtaking wilderness hikes along North America’s easternmost coastline on the East Coast Trail. Stretching across the Avalon Peninsula, this scenic route weaves through 30 historic settlements and showcases stunning natural landmarks, including Berry Head, Cape Spear, and countless other coastal wonders.
5. Patagonia
A trip to Patagonia is at the top of every adventurer’s travel list. A place of starkly beautiful panoramas, dramatic mountain peaks and alpine lakes, all cut off from the rest of the globe by sea, mountains and ice fields. This binational region is ideal if you’re looking to swerve the sweltering summer heat.
The ever-present Patagonian wind keeps things cool, and the summer months make Chile’s rivers raft-able and hiking trails clear, in iconic Torres del Paine and Tierra del Fuego.
Temperature gauge: Summer is the warmest time of year with temperatures averaging 15°C during December, January & February.
Don't forget! South American seasons are opposite to those in North America or Europe, so you'll be booking your summer holiday for a different time of year. The infamous Patagonian wind can be at its fiercest during the summer season, reaching up to 190 kilometres an hour!
Highlights of Patagonia
The rugged foothills of the Patagonian Andes boast expansive, untamed landscapes of breathtaking beauty. Towering mountains, ancient glaciers and fragrant forests invite exploration on foot, offering an immersive connection with nature. This walking adventure showcases the best of Southern Patagonia, from the iconic peaks of Torres del Paine to the remote wilderness of Tierra del Fuego.
You really can't go wrong with scenic landscapes, outdoor activities, balmy temperatures and the unique cultural charm of these cooler weather destinations. Just don't forget to pack a lightweight jacket!
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If you're interested in a walking holiday away from the summer frenzy in cooler places, get in touch with our team of travel consultants who will be happy to recommend trip itineraries or tailor make a walking holiday based on your interests. Alternatively, you can view all our walking holidays in summer.
