We’re breaking a sweat just thinking about this heat wave. To cool off, we’re planning our next “coolcation,” one of 2024’s biggest travel trends. According to Virtuoso, approximately 82% of travelers are seeking destinations with temperate climates, averaging around 65 degrees Fahrenheit. These cooler spots are ideal for hiking, wildlife viewing, and, most importantly, escaping the oppressive heat.
Naturally, we’ve compiled the top destinations and their best-in-class boutique hotels so you can enjoy a refreshing “coolcation” and escape the sweltering summer heat.
Tyrol, Austria
Amidst the record-breaking heat of this European summer, there’s nothing more enticing than a dip in Austria’s Tyrol Region’s sparkling Lake Achensee or hiking the Zillertal Alps’ 85 glaciers, all to the tune of folk music reminiscent of The Sound of Music. Austrians are no strangers to the concept of a “coolcation” either. Their summer holiday, known as “Sommerfrische,” was coined by the famed Brothers Grimm in the 18th century.
Stay here: Lanserhof Lans provides cold chamber units, an element of the resort’s medical packages, for guests who need an extra cooling effect.
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 66 degrees Fahrenheit
Harads, Sweden
With bone-chilling polar nights marked by the total absence of the sun from the winter sky, the Lapland region in Sweden’s northernmost Arctic sector is an ideal spot to escape the heat. The land of the Midnight Sun and Northern Lights offers summertime travelers the chance to experience its natural beauty around the clock. Hiking, mountain biking, swimming, and fly fishing are just a few activities one can enjoy until the wee hours of the morning.
Stay here: An architectural marvel in the heart of the Swedish forest, Treehotel is a sight to behold with its modernist treehouse-style lodges immersed in the thick of the woods.
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 60 degrees Fahrenheit
Italian Dolomites
In recent years, Italy’s scorching 100-degree temperatures have led us to turn away from its popular summer destinations—Positano, Rome, and Sicily, to name a few. Instead, the northern Italian Dolomites (also known as the Italian Alps) seem like a much better place to be. We’re dreaming of cooling off in the icy waters of Lago di Tovel or taking a boat ride on Lago di Braies.
Stay here: From its jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the Dolomites to its luxurious spa, Forestis is undoubtedly where we want to breathe in the crisp mountain.
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 59 degrees Fahrenheit
Atacama Desert, Chile
Yes, we know the word “desert” isn’t exactly synonymous with “coolcation.” However, Chile’s Atacama Desert, known as the world’s driest non-polar desert, is the exception for making the cut as a perfect cool-weather getaway given we’re in the Southern hemisphere.
Stay here: Sustainably led, Our Habitas Atacama places nature at its core, with a nature-centric ethos and 51 guestrooms inspired by the region’s arid terrain.
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 72 degrees Fahrenheit
Grindavik, Iceland
Iceland’s long days and mild (but not hot) climate make it ideal for a “coolcation.” Exploring Vatnajökull and Snæfellsjökull National Parks, with their sweeping snow-covered mountain vistas, abundant ice caps, and massive glaciers, is a perfect refuge from the heat back home. Enhance your coolcation with a visit to Sky Lagoon for a refreshing cold plunge and mist combo, followed by a relaxing dip in the geothermal lagoon.
Stay here: The Retreat at Blue Lagoon is a unique oasis featuring a Scandinavian-minimalist hotel and guestrooms set on a private islet amidst an ancient, coal-black lava field, with dreamy views of the milky blue lagoon.
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 59 degrees Fahrenheit
British Columbia, Canada
Canada’s British Columbia offers an abundance of natural splendor and mild weather, making T-shirts and jeans the ideal attire. Discover the renowned Kelowna wineries in the Okanagan Valley or embark on a whale-watching adventure in Victoria or Vancouver.
Stay here: Ensconced in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest, Nimmo Bay Resort is a luxury family-owned resort located along the rugged West Coast of Canada.
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 68 degrees Fahrenheit
Storfjord, Norway
For those escaping the heat wave in Southern Europe, Norway’s Storfjord offers refreshing temperatures and tranquility. A scenic train ride along the picturesque Rauma Line provides a relaxing way to enjoy the dramatic landscapes. Additionally, cruising through the deep blue waters of the fjord is a delightful way to experience a “coolcation.” However, if you begin to crave social interaction, you can take a short drive to the hipster Art Nouveau town of Ålesund.
Stay here: Step into a Scandinavian folktale at Storfjord Hotel, a log cabin retreat with a touch of modern-alpine elegance.
Average High Temperature in the Summer: 62 degrees Fahrenheit
