Coolcation: Top 10 summer destinations with pleasant temperatures

Contents:

• 1. The Faroe Islands: Cliffs, wind and quiet villages

• 2. Iceland: Bright nights between fire and ice

• 3. Western Norway: Fjords, mountains and sea air

• 4. The Scottish Highlands: Vast valleys and lakes

• 5. Ireland’s west coast: Green expanses by the Atlantic

• 6. Estonia’s Baltic coast: Islands, forests and the sea

• 7. North Zealand: Days on the beach with Danish ease

• 8. The Stockholm Archipelago: island-hopping just off the city

• 9. Finnish Lake District: Sauna days by tranquil waters

• 10. The Azores: Volcanic craters and mild Atlantic air

1. The Faroe Islands: Cliffs, wind and quiet villages

Grass-covered mountain slopes, steep cliffs and small villages with dark wooden houses characterise the Faroe Islands. The 18 islands lie between Scotland and Iceland in the North Atlantic and are connected by tunnels, bridges and ferries. Waterfalls plunge straight into the sea, narrow roads wind through almost untouched landscapes, and behind every bend a new view of the coast opens up.

With average temperatures of around 10 to 13 degrees, the summers remain pleasantly cool. Wind, mist, sunshine and brief showers can alternate within the space of a few hours. Tórshavn serves as an ideal central base for exploring the archipelago. Perched above the small capital is the Hotel Føroyar, whose thatched roof and understated architecture seem to blend seamlessly with the landscape. From the rooms and the restaurant, the view stretches across the town to the island of Nólsoy.

The best ‘Coolcation’ moment: sitting in a small café with rosy cheeks after a hike, whilst outside the mist drifts over the cliffs.

2. Iceland: Bright nights between fire and ice

Glaciers, lava fields, black beaches and thundering waterfalls make Iceland one of Europe’s most diverse ‘coolcation’ destinations. Reykjavík is a good starting point for trips to the Golden Circle, the Reykjanes Peninsula and along the south coast. Those with more time to spare can continue along the Ring Road or explore the quieter Westfjords.

In July, temperatures in Reykjavík usually range between 9 and 15 degrees. Wind and rain are still possible even in the height of summer, but there are more than 20 hours of daylight every day. In the heart of the capital, the Canopy by Hilton Reykjavík combines modern Icelandic design with the history of several former commercial and cultural buildings. Restaurants, small shops, the waterfront promenade and the striking Hallgrímskirkja are all within walking distance.

The best ‘Coolcation’ moment: after a windy day, lying in a hot spring and watching the bright summer night slowly descend over the landscape.

3. Western Norway: Fjords, mountains and sea air

Deep fjords, green mountain slopes and small coastal villages characterise western Norway. Bergen is the ideal base for trips to the Hardangerfjord, Sognefjord or Nærøyfjord. It’s also well worth planning a few days in the harbour city itself: the historic wooden houses of Bryggen, the fish market and the surrounding viewpoints can all be easily explored on foot.

Summer temperatures often range between 10 and 20 degrees. Although temperatures can exceed 20 degrees on sunny days, the sea air and changeable weather usually provide a refreshing respite. Situated in the heart of the lively Skostredet restaurant district is the Hotel & Spa of the same name, whose design combines Japanese elegance with Scandinavian simplicity. After a day spent amongst the fjords and mountains, several saunas and hot and cold pools offer a pleasant retreat. Also exceptional is the hotel’s own Michelin-starred restaurant, OMAKASE by Sergey PAK, which combines local Norwegian ingredients with Japanese culinary techniques. 

The most beautiful ‘coolcation’ moment: gliding through a tranquil fjord by boat early in the morning, whilst waterfalls cascade down the steep mountain slopes.

4. The Scottish Highlands: Vast valleys and lochs

The Scottish Highlands are characterised by deep lochs, rugged mountain landscapes, castle ruins and narrow roads winding through almost deserted valleys. Inverness is a good base for visiting Loch Ness, the Cairngorms National Park and the north coast. For a longer round trip, the Isle of Skye and the wild west coast are also well worth a visit.

In the Scottish summer, average maximum temperatures are around 17 degrees. In higher-altitude or windier regions, it can feel considerably cooler, though sunny and surprisingly warm days are also possible. The Ness Walk Hotel is situated right on the leafy banks of the River Ness. Inverness city centre is within walking distance, whilst the peaceful location sets the mood for the countryside beyond the city.

The best Coolcation moment: having a picnic by a secluded loch whilst the shadows of the clouds slowly drift across the surrounding mountains.

5. Ireland’s west coast: green expanses by the Atlantic

The Irish west coast is less suited to a single destination than to a journey in several stages. Galway is a good base for exploring Connemara and the Aran Islands. Further south lie the Cliffs of Moher, the Dingle Peninsula and the dramatic coastal landscapes of Kerry.

In July and August, temperatures often range between 10 and 19 degrees. Sun, wind and brief showers alternate rapidly, lending the meadows, moors and coastlines their intense colours. On Lough Corrib, just a few minutes’ drive outside Galway, lies the Glenlo Abbey Hotel & Estate. This historic estate combines proximity to the lively city with the tranquillity of the West Irish countryside.

Galway is also renowned for its oysters, which thrive in the clear waters of the Atlantic coast. Particularly in late summer and autumn, they are among the region’s culinary specialities.

The best Coolcation moment: driving along a narrow coastal road, with the Atlantic in view and discovering a new beach round every bend.

6. Estonia’s Baltic Sea coast: islands, forests and the sea

Estonia’s north coast links Tallinn’s medieval Old Town with sandy beaches, small islands and the dense forests of Lahemaa National Park. The capital is compact and can easily be combined with day trips to Naissaar, Aegna or Prangli. Those staying longer can continue their journey to the western Estonian islands of Saaremaa and Hiiumaa.

In summer, temperatures in Tallinn usually range between 15 and 20 degrees. Warmer spells are possible, but by the sea a light breeze often ensures more pleasant conditions. The Nunne Boutique Hotel is situated right next to the historic city walls. In this tranquil hotel, visible traces of the city’s medieval history blend with contemporary Estonian design.

The best ‘Coolcation’ moment: sitting by the Baltic Sea late in the evening and realising that the sky still hasn’t gone completely dark.

7. North Zealand: Days on the beach with Danish ease

North of Copenhagen lies North Zealand, which is also known as the Danish Riviera due to its long coastline. Seaside resorts such as Tisvildeleje and Hornbæk, Kronborg Castle and the Louisiana Museum of Modern Art can be combined into a varied trip blending the sea, culture and the Scandinavian way of life.

In July and August, temperatures usually reach around 20 degrees. Sunny days are warm enough for trips to the beach and long evenings outdoors, whilst the coastal breeze and the nights remain pleasantly cool. Situated above the Kattegat is the Helenekilde Badehotel, a former private summer house that was converted into a seaside guesthouse as early as the beginning of the 20th century. Bright rooms, sea views and direct access to the coastal landscape lend the hotel a relaxed summer atmosphere.

The best Coolcation moment: after a cycle ride through woods and small coastal villages, take off your shoes and let the long summer’s day draw to a close by the Kattegat.

8. The Stockholm Archipelago: Island-hopping just off the city

An archipelago comprising more than 30,000 islands stretches out from Stockholm. Some consist solely of woodland, rocks and the occasional summer cottage, whilst others have small harbour towns, restaurants and traditional accommodation. Stockholm serves as the cultural starting point before ferries continue on to Vaxholm, Grinda, Utö or Sandhamn.

In July, average temperatures range between 14 and 23 degrees. On warm days, the Baltic Sea, shady forests and a boat trip offer a quick way to cool down. On the car-free island of Grinda, the historic Grinda Wärdshus welcomes travellers who want to experience the archipelago for more than just a day trip. Once the last ferries have set sail, a special tranquillity descends on the island.

The best ‘Coolcation’ moment: travelling by ferry between wooded islands and watching Stockholm slowly disappear over the horizon.

9. The Finnish Lake District: Sauna days by tranquil waters

The Finnish Lake District is a vast, intricate mosaic of water, islands and forests. Savonlinna, Kuopio and Jyväskylä make good starting points, but the real holiday feeling often comes from staying in a ‘mökki’ – a traditional holiday cottage with a sauna and private access to the lake.

In southern Finland, temperatures in July often range between 20 and 25 degrees. This makes the region slightly warmer than many other Nordic ‘coolcation’ destinations, though the thousands of lakes offer a refreshing dip at any time. Situated right on the shores of Lake Saimaa, the Sahanlahti Resort is set on the site of a former sawmill. Historic buildings, modern accommodation and several saunas – including a traditional smoke sauna – combine to create a stay that connects you with nature and Finnish sauna culture. 

A regional speciality is ‘muikku’, small whitefish from Finnish lakes, served crispy-fried or smoked. In Savonlinna in particular, they’re a staple of market stalls and small harbour restaurants in summer.

The best Coolcation moment: walking along a wooden jetty after the sauna and diving into a mirror-smooth lake whilst the evening sun still hangs over the trees.

10. The Azores: Volcanic craters and mild Atlantic air

The Azores are the warmest destination in this selection. This Portuguese archipelago lies in the middle of the Atlantic and combines crater lakes, green mountain slopes, natural hot springs and black lava coasts. São Miguel is the largest island and is particularly suitable for a first visit.

Average summer temperatures are around 21 degrees. However, sunshine, mist and brief showers can alternate rapidly. In Ponta Delgada, the Octant Hotel is situated opposite the marina. From the island’s capital, both the crater lakes of Sete Cidades and the thermal areas around Furnas are easily accessible.

An exceptional local speciality is the ‘Cozido das Furnas’. This traditional stew is cooked in large pots buried in the hot volcanic earth and dug up again after several hours. The dish is closely linked to the geothermal landscape of São Miguel and is far more than just a regional meal.

The most beautiful ‘Coolcation’ moment: standing above the Sete Cidades crater lake, whilst clouds drift across the green slopes and the Atlantic glistens in the distance.

Conclusion: A ‘Coolcation’ is more than just an escape from high temperatures. It opens up a different way of experiencing summer: more active, more peaceful and closer to nature. Instead of planning your day around the midday heat, there’s time for long hikes, spontaneous excursions and bright evenings by the water. Whether it’s a windy Atlantic island, a Nordic capital or a Finnish lakeside – sometimes a little less heat is exactly what makes for a proper summer holiday.