5 of Europe’s best 'coolcation'...

For Middle East travellers seeking cooler summer vacations, try these

It’s official: 2024 is shaping up to be the year of the ‘coolcation’, as rising temperatures across the globe are sending travellers flocking to cooler climes. Google Trends revealed a 300% increase in searches for ‘cooler holidays’ in early 2024, compared with the same period the year before, while travel agency Scott Dunn has reported a 400% rise in enquiries for Finland this summer since 2023. So, where can you send clients looking to escape the heat? From surprising beach breaks in Latvia to adventure holidays in Iceland, here are some of the coolest options.

Iceland

Why go? From the giant geysers of the Golden Circle to the steaming, aquamarine waters of the Blue Lagoon, and evocative sculptures such as Artic Henge (pictured above), it’s not hard to see what lures cooler-clime travellers to Iceland. For those looking to venture a little off the beaten track, suggest driving the Arctic Coast Way. This scenic route takes in the lesser-explored north of the country and stops at lunar-like lava fields, traditional fishing villages and windswept beaches – all set beneath crisp blue summer skies.

Finland

Why go? For the true definition of a ‘coolcation’, Finland deserves a spot on the list. From cycling, canoeing and swimming around Europe’s largest lake district to hiking through fragrant forests, there’s plenty to do in the summer months. Average temperatures of 15C-20C make it the perfect spot for clients looking to cool off, while summer in the Arctic Circle comes with the added bonus of the midnight sun.

Finland Finland

Latvia

Why go? Why go? Latvia might not be the place that springs to mind for a summer holiday, but that’s exactly its appeal, according to Andrea Godfrey, Head of Regent Holidays.

“With Blue Flag sandy beaches, warm waters, scented pine woods and pleasant average temperatures of 22C in August, the ‘Riviera of the Baltics’ is a great-value alternative to the increasing temperatures in the southern Med,” she says.

Recommend Jurmala for white-sand shores, characterful wooden houses and crystal-clear waters, and direct families to Livi Akvaparks, one of the biggest water parks in northern Europe. For clients keen to explore more, Riga is a 30-minute drive away, while Kemeri National Park, Dzintari Forest Park and Ragakāpa Nature Park offer up panoramic, pine-forested vistas and hiking opportunities aplenty.

Latvia Jurmala, Latvia

The Azores

Why go? For clients looking to escape the mainstream as well as the heat, look to the Azores, an autonomous archipelago region of Portugal in the mid-Atlantic. The islands are characterized by dramatic landscapes, fishing villages, green pastures and hedgerows of blue hydrangeas. Vivid-blue lakes, tumbling waterfalls and mystical caves sit between volcanic, craggy coastlines – and temperatures rarely exceed 25C, even in summer.

“The archipelago is a remote paradise for those who love the outdoors, with unique flora and fauna, excellent whale and dolphin watching plus amazing food and wine,” says Tracy Martin, Senior Product Executive for Kuoni. “It’s also a top spot for wellbeing, with plenty of thermal waters and hot springs. There’s a big focus on sustainability too.”

The Azores

Switzerland

Why go? If clients like the sound of scenic mountain hikes, picturesque villages and relaxing days lounging lakeside, the Swiss Alps are an excellent option. And with temperatures in the low to mid-20s in summer, they needn’t worry about hiking in the heat. For an especially scenic spot, Inghams recommends Lake Lucerne. Here, adventurous types can hike their way around 75 miles of trails, glide across the water in a paddle steamer or ride a cog railway up the soaring Rigi mountain – in between exploring the charming, historic towns of Lucerne and Weggis.

Weggis, Lake Lucerne