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Condé Nast Traveler
16-07-2025
- Condé Nast Traveler
The Best Coolcation Destinations in Europe: Where to Go to Beat the Heat this Summer
When it comes to wistfully plotting trips to Europe's sunniest destinations, we're as guilty as anyone. But as heatwaves and high temperatures spread across the continent, we've found ourselves searching for ways to beat the heat instead of actively seeking it out. The latest travel trend we're keeping an eye on is 'coolcations"—vacationing to countries where the temperature is lower and more manageable in the summer months. Based on the surge in travel searches for cooler summer destinations, new research by Inghams Walking reveals that coolcations are the new travel trend. The specialist tour operator tracked year-on-year search trends across general destination terms, hotel-related queries, and flight searches for nearly 100 cool-weather European spots. According to their findings, here are the top five emerging coolcation destinations in Europe, with number one recording the greatest popularity in travel searches. See the results—and inspiration for your next coolcation—below. Along the stretch of a wooden trail at Lahemaa National Park in Estonia Getty Images 5. Lahemaa National Park, Estonia Lahemaa in Estonia is not the only destination on this list that has the best hiking weather in the summer. With a maximum temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, visitors can avoid having to plan their outdoor activities—namely, long walks and wildlife-spotting—to avoid the summer heat. It stays pleasant all day as its northern European location means that the worst of the heatwave won't quite reach it. Where to stay: To really immerse yourself in Estonia's rural landscape, take the one-hour drive to the tried-and-tested cabin in the woods, Mirror House, where one of our in-house editors set up camp for a few days of off-grid creative time. Read the full review here.
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Travel + Leisure
15-07-2025
- Travel + Leisure
These Are the Best Summer 'Coolcation' Destinations in Europe, According to a New Study
Temperatures across Europe reached triple digits in June, while a simultaneous heat dome covered much of the U.S., bringing record-breaking temperatures on a world tour. Things are getting rather spicy when it comes to the weather, which may have you thinking about ways to chill out—enter the "coolcation." Just as the name implies, a coolcation is a getaway to a destination where the climate is always sweater-weather perfect. If that sounds appealing, you're not alone. Searches for "coolcations" spiked 624 percent over the last year, according to an analysis from Inghams Walking, a tour company based in the United Kingdom. To help people find the perfect place to go on their chillier getaway, the team at Ingrams evaluated nearly 100 different European destinations to find the top coolcation spots for 2025. To come up with the list, Inghams Walking assessed traveler "intent" by looking at online searches across general destination terms, hotel-related queries, and flight searches. The team then compared year-on-year searches to see which destinations experienced the largest increase in interest. And it turns out, the No. 1 destination is located in the heart of the land of fire and ice, with Akureyri, Iceland, taking the top spot. That designation is thanks to a 264 percent jump in popularity for the city. Akureyri is considered the capital of Iceland's northern region, according to Visit North Iceland. Despite its small population of about 19,000 residents, the city offers travelers an ideal mix of culture and nature all wrapped into one. Visitors can explore the Akureyri Art Museum, the Icelandic Aviation Museum, and the stunning modern Akureyrarkirkja church during their stay. Later, set off on an unforgettable whale watching adventure in the surrounding waters or go for a walk through the Akureyri Botanic Gardens, which opened in 1912 as Iceland's first public park. Joining Akureyri at the top of the list was Tisvilde, Denmark. The small seaside spot, which sits along what is known as the "Danish Riviera," is known for its miles of sandy beaches, tiny colorful beach huts, and quaint eateries that serve local delights. The area also happens to be a favorite destination among poets and creatives. It even played host to Hans Christian Andersen himself when he spent six weeks at the Hellebæk Inn, according to Visit Nordsjælland. Akureyi and Tisvilde were followed by other top coolcation destinations, including Nuuk, Greenland, which came in at No. 3 on the list. Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy; Lahemaa National Park, Estonia; Lucerne, Switzerland; Malmö, Sweden; Arlberg, Austria; the Belgian Riviera, Belgium; and Ghent, Belgium, rounded out the top 10. For the full list and to learn more, visit
Daily Mirror
23-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Travellers ditch beach holidays for stunning 'cooler' locations
The trend for 'coolcations' has seen holidaymakers shun beach resorts in favour of destinations with less tourists this time of year As the summer holidays approach, folks are gearing up to flock to sunny coastal resorts or enjoy a UK seaside staycation. But, some are bucking the trend and opting for chillier locales as soon as the British heat kicks in. The travel scene's seen a real shake-up recently with 'coolcation' destinations gaining steam among Europeans looking to dodge the scorching sun. Google's been ablaze with a whopping 624% surge in searches for these cooler getaways this year. Inghams Walking has delved deep, scrutinising almost 100 spots across Europe to reveal where the cool crowd will head come 2025. Inghams Walking's Head of rambling, Laura Mason, chimed in: "While countries like Greece and Spain have offered holidaymakers a chance to soak up the sun and get some much-needed Vitamin D, the heatwaves rippling across Europe in the past couple of years have undoubtedly shifted travellers to alternative travel for their summer breaks. "Coolcations allow holidaymakers to foster a deeper connection with nature, often prioritising exploring the outdoors and personal wellbeing, and we hope our findings inspire those looking to mix up their typical travel this summer." Iceland's Akureyri, fondly referred to as the 'Capital of the North', tops the chart as the most popular 'coolcation' hotspot. Inghams experts have revealed a staggering 264.13% surge in interest for Akureyri as travellers seek cooler climes for their summer holidays. This idyllic city, with its mild summer temperatures of 10-12°C, boasts the northernmost botanical garden in the world, an eye-catching church by the architect of Reykjavik's famed Hallgrímskirkja, and some of Iceland's finest whale-watching excursions," reports the Express. Tisvilde, known as the 'Danish Riviera', is next on the list, offering tourists the perfect mix of urban exploration and relaxed coastal vibes. Experts at Inghams extol Tisvilde's virtues: "Tisvilde is rich in culture and has several palaces and castles, charming colourful beach houses, miles of sandy beaches, and restaurants serving fresh catches from the surrounding waters." With average summer temperatures ranging from 19 to 21°C, Tisvilde provides a warm yet comfortable beach experience, avoiding the intense heat found in more traditional European destinations. From seaside towns on Iceland's 'Arctic Coast Way' to unspoilt and rugged landscapes in the Scottish Highlands, there are plenty of choices for those looking for the perfectly cool getaway. Popular 'coolcation' destinations: Akureyri, Iceland Tisvilde, Denmark Nuuk, Greenland Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy Lahemaa National Park, Estonia Lucerne, Switzerland Malmö, Sweden Arlberg, Austria Belgian Riviera, Belgium Ghent, Belgium Kraków, Poland Dolomites, Italy Glen Coe, Scotland Montreux, Switzerland Kranjska Gora, Slovenia Galway, Ireland Bern, Switzerland Schaan, Liechtenstein Alpach, Austria Gdańsk, Poland
Daily Record
19-06-2025
- Daily Record
Scottish spot known for scenic peaks and valleys sees travel spike amid ‘coolcation' trend
Coolcations are booming, with searches for the term up 624 percent in the past year As Europe braces for another summer of soaring temperatures, more travellers are swapping beach towels for hiking boots in search of cooler climes and one Scottish gem is standing out among the pack. The growing trend of the 'coolcation', holidays designed to beat the heat rather than bask in it, is surging in popularity. Online searches for the term have rocketed by 624 percent over the past year, according to new research by walking holiday experts Inghams Walking. Their latest study analysed nearly 100 destinations across Europe, tracking interest at every stage of the travel planning journey, from general searches to hotel queries and flight bookings. By comparing year-on-year spikes in search data, they've identified the top emerging spots where more tourists are heading to cool off. Glen Coe has landed at number 13 on the list of fastest-growing 'coolcation' destinations in Europe, boasting a 33.64 percent rise in travel interest. It's a major win for Scotland's Highlands, which continue to draw in visitors with their rugged landscapes, haunting history and unspoilt beauty. Glencoe, nestled within the Lochaber Geopark, is often dubbed the 'Outdoor Capital of the UK'. With average summer temperatures of just 10 to 12 degrees Celsius, it offers a refreshing escape from the continental heat, perfect for hikers, climbers, and nature lovers. Not only is Glencoe Scotland's most famous and scenic glen, it's also among its most historic and romantic. Once carved by violent volcanic eruptions and massive glaciers, the dramatic terrain is laced with myth and legend. Celtic warrior Fingal is said to have made his home among its towering mountains, while his poet son Ossian drew inspiration from the sweeping valleys and cliffs. 'Inghams' research shines a light on lesser-known escapes where you can still enjoy epic scenery and fresh air without the crowds or the heatwave,' a spokesperson said. Glen Coe is more than just a place to admire from afar, it's a base for adventure and discovery. From wildlife spotting to geological marvels, the region offers a unique mix of natural wonder and cultural heritage. Join the Daily Record WhatsApp community! Get the latest news sent straight to your messages by joining our WhatsApp community today. You'll receive daily updates on breaking news as well as the top headlines across Scotland. No one will be able to see who is signed up and no one can send messages except the Daily Record team. All you have to do is click here if you're on mobile, select 'Join Community' and you're in! If you're on a desktop, simply scan the QR code above with your phone and click 'Join Community'. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. To leave our community click on the name at the top of your screen and choose 'exit group'. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice. Topping the list of fastest-growing coolcations is Akureyri in Iceland, with a staggering 264.13 percent rise in search interest. It's followed by Tisvilde in Denmark (+98.59 percent), Nuuk in Greenland (+79.53 percent), Cortina d'Ampezzo in Italy (+64.16 percent) and Estonia's Lahemaa National Park (+55.99 percent). Laura Mason, Head of Walking at Inghams Walking, comments: 'Our data reveals a growing shift among travellers looking to move away from traditional sun-soaked destinations in favour of cooler climates. 'And search behaviour on Google supports this growing trend, with our research showcasing the 'coolcation' destinations across Europe that travellers are becoming increasingly interested in visiting. 'Coolcations allow holidaymakers to foster a deeper connection with nature, often prioritising exploring the outdoors and personal wellbeing, and we hope our findings inspire those looking to mix up their typical travel this summer.'
