Summer’s not over just yet, so we’ve selected five spots for you to savor those final summer vacation moments before fall rolls around.
Tuscany, Italy
Italy’s sought-after wine country, Tuscany, is renowned for its lush hillside vineyards, surreal landscapes, and artistic capitals of Florence and Siena. Wine-and-art lovers will undoubtedly revel in the Galleria degli Uffizi and the centuries-old Barone Ricasoli viticulture estate that essentially invented Chianti wine as we know it today. (We also recommend touring the Antinori Chianti Classico as it’s arguably the most widely known name in Tuscan wine around the globe.)
Why Visit in August?
Few things are more romantic than an Italian summer getaway — and what better place to conclude the season than Tuscany’s picturesque wine country?
Where to Stay:
An idyllic hideaway in the Tuscan countryside, Villa Ardore is a newly renovated 16th-century stone farmhouse ensconced in the Chianti wine region. Available solely in August and September, guests can book the Summer of Ardore package, which includes a 3-night stay at the luxurious eight-guestroom villa — that’s suitable for up to 16 guests — with unlimited access to the on-site Roman spa, a complementary regional wine tasting, prepared culinary delights by the in-house private chef, and more.
Denver, Colorado
With over 300 days of sunshine each year, Colorado is a great spot to soak up that summer feeling. Begin your day with the Denver Graffiti Tour, where you will walk around the RiNo Art District and learn about the graffiti art, the artists, and the meaning behind their work. Once you’re done, make your way to LoHi (Lower Highlands) for brunch at The Bindery.
Why Visit in August?
Sunshine and mid-80s temperatures break through July thunderstorms and rain showers. Plus, August is the prime time for shows in the breathtaking Red Rocks Amphitheater.
Where to Stay:
Thompson Denver is our favorite stylish boutique hotel that sits in LoDo (Lower Downtown)—a historic neighborhood within walking distance of Union Station, Coors Field, and the Dairy Block: a collective space replete with food stalls and local boutiques. Another fantastic option is The Ramble Hotel, an elegant boutique hotel in RiNo — when staying at this designed-to-the-nines spot, make sure to grab a cocktail at their dazzlingly-dainty, chandelier-hovering bar, Death & Co.
Denali, Alaska
With the most moderate temperatures of the year and the chance to see a glimpse of the Northern Lights at the end of the month, promptly add Denali, Alaska to your summer bucket list.
Why Visit in August?
River-rafting down the Nenana River—the state’s most popular river for whitewater rafting—is outstanding for cooling off from the heat. During the summer months, Denali is the only national park in the USA where visitors can witness rangers and dogs demonstrate traditional Alaskan sled travel at Denali Kennels.
Where to Stay:
McKinley Creekside Cabins is a locally owned-and-operated boutique Alaskan lodge, restaurant, and café, set right on Carlo Creek and surrounded by mountains for the ideal wilderness getaway.
Corfu, Greece
Less touristy than Santorini and Mykonos, this quaint and romantic Greek island sees fewer crowds than its domestic counterparts. With a drastically different look than the further-south Cycladic Islands, Corfu is part of the Ionian Islands, a geographic nuance that brought the isle’s architecture to resemble Italy more than its actual host country. Expect swoon-worthy beaches such as Glyfada Beach and Canal d’Amour.
Why Visit in August?
There’s never a really bad time to visit Greece, but when it comes to swimming in the Aegean Sea, locals and returning tourists alike will tell you August is the most optimal (make sure to visit Avlaki beach). Plus, in the summer, we love the picturesque village of Paleokastritsa—which means “little, old castle palace” in Greek—for its slew of traditional tavernas lying along the piercingly blue bay.
Where to Stay:
Angsana Corfu Resort & Spa is a luxurious beachfront resort, which is known for its spa boasting 11 treatment rooms and a medley of Asia-meets-Europe-style treatments—the “rain mist classic” features an invigorating rain shower combined with moisturizing body treatments to soothe the senses.
Porto, Montenegro
High-end shops and restaurants line the exquisite streets of Porto, Montenegro. This waterfront town is home to a number of superyachts that catch the eyes of any tourist. Expect to see the breathtaking infinity pool overlooking Boka Bay and eat Asian-infused dishes at Buddha-Bar Beach.
Why Visit in August?
The world’s most extraordinary polo tournament takes place here, Polo in the Port. This event is the epitome of high-class living with celebrity attendees and lofty parties all around.
Where to Stay:
La Fleur Boutique Hotel is an elegant and intimate property with a 360º rooftop terrace and bar serving incredible views of Porto and à la carte Mediterranean-style dishes.
