Escape the heat and travel north – discover Europe’s best cool climate getaways.
As summer temperatures continue to climb, more travelers are trading sweltering beaches for crisp air, misty mountains, and peaceful lakeshores. This growing trend — the coolcation — offers a refreshing alternative to traditional summer holidays. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural charm, or pure relaxation, Europe’s cooler destinations provide the perfect setting.
Here are the Top 10 Coolcation Destinations in Europe for those looking to beat the heat and experience something different this summer.
1. Lofoten Islands, Norway
Located above the Arctic Circle, the Lofoten archipelago offers jaw-dropping landscapes: dramatic peaks, deep fjords, fishing villages, and the midnight sun. Temperatures stay cool even in July, making it ideal for hiking, kayaking, or just enjoying the peaceful scenery.
Highlights:
- Midnight sun hikes
- Sea eagles and whale watching
- Authentic Nordic fishing culture
2. Lapland, Finland
Forget reindeer and Santa – summer in Finnish Lapland is magical in its own way. Endless daylight, tranquil forests, and thousands of lakes create the perfect setting for slow travel, wellness, and reconnection with nature.
Highlights:
- Lakefront saunas
- Berry picking and foraging
- National parks like Pallas-Yllästunturi
3. Scotland’s Highlands
The Scottish Highlands are wild, windswept, and deeply cinematic. Cool even in midsummer, the region is rich in history, folklore, and unspoiled nature.
Highlights:
- Glen Coe and Isle of Skye
- Castles and clan history
- Whisky distillery tours
4. Faroe Islands, Denmark
Remote and otherworldly, the Faroe Islands are a coolcation dream. Think steep sea cliffs, coastal trails, and puffin colonies – all with temperatures rarely exceeding 15°C in summer.
Highlights:
- Hiking to Kallur Lighthouse
- Tasting Faroese seafood
- Road tripping through stunning scenery
5. Swiss Alps
While ski season may be over, the Alps in summer offer fresh air, green valleys, and panoramic trails. Destinations like Zermatt and Grindelwald combine outdoor adventure with cozy alpine culture.
Highlights:
- Cable car rides to snowy peaks
- Glacier walks and alpine lakes
- Biking and paragliding options
6. Iceland
One of Europe’s top coolcation spots, Iceland is a land of contrasts: volcanoes and glaciers, waterfalls and black-sand beaches. July brings long days and mild weather — perfect for road tripping or exploring the Highlands.
Highlights:
- Golden Circle and Ring Road
- Hot springs in the wild
- Whale watching in Husavik
7. Austria’s Salzkammergut Region
Less crowded than the Alps and equally charming, this lake district in central Austria offers cool, crystal-clear waters and forested mountains. Towns like Hallstatt are straight out of a fairytale.
Highlights:
- Swimming in Lake Wolfgangsee
- Hiking and cycling trails
- Picturesque Alpine villages
8. Northern Sweden (Swedish Lapland)
Peaceful, vast, and sparsely populated, Swedish Lapland is the definition of tranquility. Cool summer weather makes it perfect for canoeing, hiking, and recharging in nature.
Highlights:
- Abisko National Park
- Wild camping and “everyman’s right”
- Indigenous Sámi culture experiences
9. Ireland’s West Coast
Ireland’s rugged Wild Atlantic Way stretches over 2,500 km and offers cool ocean breezes, cliffs, surf spots, and friendly towns. While the weather is famously changeable, it rarely gets hot — a coolcation classic.
Highlights:
- Cliffs of Moher and Dingle Peninsula
- Traditional Irish pubs
- Ancient stone forts and castles
10. The Dolomites, Italy
Yes — even Italy has a coolcation zone! The Dolomites in northern Italy are a UNESCO World Heritage Site with jagged mountain peaks, cool air, and plenty of outdoor activities, far from the sweltering heat of Rome or Florence.
Highlights:
- Via ferrata climbing routes
- Local alpine cuisine
- Cycling or hiking the Tre Cime di Lavaredo
Why Choose a Coolcation?
A coolcation lets you experience Europe from a different angle. Instead of fighting crowds in tourist-saturated cities, you can breathe fresh air, move freely, and explore places where nature still takes center stage. It’s a chance to restore your energy, improve your well-being, and escape the pressures of modern travel.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with the whole family — there’s a cool destination waiting for you.
Ready to travel cool?
Let the heatwaves pass you by and head north for your next summer escape.
Beat the heat. Travel cool. Discover your perfect coolcation.
