Published 6th Aug. 2024
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For us Brits, guaranteed good weather is essential when it comes to picking where to summer. We spend the colder months dreaming of sunnier climes, forgoing sweaters for swimwear and settling onto a sun lounger with a chilled drink. So, it's no surprise that every year, many of us migrate to the Med for our dose of Vitamin D. But with temperatures exceeding 40° C in parts of Greece, Italy and Spain, travellers are starting to seek out cooler climes. From Sweden and Norway to Northern Spain and Italy’s Dolomites, here’s our team’s pick of the best coolcations to take this summer...
When it comes to cool European destinations, Norway is cool in more ways than one. Summer temperatures tend to hover between a comfortable 12 and 18°C, while the overall vibe of this Scandinavian nation is undeniably ahead of the curve. And what better way to take in the full expanse of the country – from the culture-packed cities to the dazzling fjords – than on a scenic train ride? You’ll be able to fully appreciate the striking scenery as you coast past charming towns and through snow-dusted mountainscapes, following the Rauma River. Begin your journey in the culture-packed capital of Oslo; stay in countryside settlements along the way, including Lillehammer, Dombas and Roros; and end in Trondheim, the ancient medieval capital situated at the mouth of the Nidelva River.
Parts of Spain are inescapably scorching during the summer months. As sought-after as the Balearic Islands and southern cities are, you’ll be contesting with temperatures upwards of 35°C in these regions. For a slightly less sweaty alternative, immerse yourself in the historic regions of Galicia and Asturias in Northern Spain. Rent a car and drive through the dramatic coastal landscapes from Cangas de Onís to Cambados. Visit cultural sites and enchanting towns along the way and unwind in the evenings with dinners of fresh seafood and world-famous wines.
The Dolomites may have made a name for themselves among the winter ski resort elite, however summer holidays here remain one of Italy’s best-kept secrets (and are a cool European destination). The best way to experience the mountains is on foot, so it’s reassuring to know that you’ll be heading out on hikes in mid-teen temperatures (rather than the summer highs of Rome or Florence). Lace up your boots and hike the mountain passes of Puez-Odle Nature Park, before trying your hand at climbing a via ferrata (a climbing route that involves navigating steep rock with the help of fixed cables or ladders) to reach the peak of Sass de Stria.
Sweden’s Wild Coast encompasses the rugged coastal area along the country’s eastern seaboard, characterised by dense forests, rocky shores and an abundance of wildlife. All of this is apt for exploring during summer when daytime temperatures range from 18 to 25 °C. Begin in Gothenburg – Sweden’s second-largest city – where you’ll find a beautiful blend of modern and historic architecture, before heading west to the Bohuslan coast for boat trips, kayaking and hidden beaches. Immerse yourself in age-old Swedish traditions in Dalarna and end your trip in Stockholm for a dose of city life after your week in the wilderness.
Happy to go against the grain? Sidestep the sunseekers flocking to the sweltering shores of the French Riviera from June to September and instead head to Normandy and Brittany, which offer a cooler alternative for summer holidays in France. Road trip between the two regions, with stops in the charming towns of Honfleur, Le Havre, Urville-Nacqueville, Cancale and Dinard. Sample local delicacies, such as Cancale oysters, and take a private tour of Mont Saint-Michel to learn about the history of this iconic village perched atop a tidal island.
Montenegro’s historic cities, striking mountain scenery and warm-but-not-too-scorching climate make it a great cool European destination. Hop behind the wheel and follow the roads through regions of pristine natural beauty, stopping to explore Biogradska Gora National Park and Durmitor National Park along the way. Swap the countryside for the coast at the halfway point of your holiday and stay in the UNESCO-listed city of Kotor. Here, you can charter a speedboat for the day, for coastal sea breezes that are guaranteed to keep you cool.
Written by Luisa Watts
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