With rising global temperatures becoming the new normal, a fresh travel trend known as “Coolcations” has emerged, offering a refreshing alternative to the traditional sun-soaked getaway. As relentless heatwaves become more frequent and severe, many travelers are shifting their focus to cooler, more temperate destinations. A recent survey by the European Travel Commission (ETC) revealed that 76% of European travelers are adapting their holiday plans due to the escalating climate crisis. One-third of respondents are actively avoiding destinations prone to extreme weather events, and many are seeking destinations with more stable climates or adjusting their travel schedules to avoid the sweltering heat of peak summer months. “Our recent research indicates a decline in the number of people interested in traveling in August, the peak month, while more Europeans are considering autumn trips,” ETC’s chief, Miguel Sanz, shared with Reuters. Coolcations offer a timely solution, transporting travelers to regions with mild, refreshing climates, where they can enjoy outdoor activities without the oppressive heat.
As the effects of climate change continue to shape travel preferences, Coolcations are increasingly becoming the go-to option for travelers looking to beat the heat. Not only do these destinations provide respite from rising temperatures, but they also offer the chance to immerse oneself in nature and culture in a quieter, more peaceful setting. From the rugged coastlines of Scotland to the gentle rolling hills of England, and the historic pilgrimage routes of northern Spain, Coolcations strike the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re drawn to tranquil coastal trails, scenic countryside walks, or historical journeys, this emerging travel trend provides a sustainable, enjoyable way to explore the world while escaping the discomfort of extreme summer heat.
What is a Coolcation?
A “coolcation” is exactly what it sounds like: a portmanteau of “cool” and “vacation.” As global temperatures rise and traditional summer hotspots become uncomfortably hot (and uncomfortably crowded), travellers are swapping sweltering beaches for milder, cooler destinations instead. Rather than fighting for shade on a 40°C Mediterranean coastline in August, coolcation travellers are heading to places where mild temperatures make outdoor activity, like hiking, genuinely enjoyable all summer long. It’s less a niche trend now and more a real shift in how people plan their holidays around comfort, climate, and crowds.
What are the benefits of “coolcations” for those seeking a quiet, scenic escape from crowded summer hotspots?
Beyond simply avoiding the heat, coolcations offer a genuinely better kind of holiday for anyone who’d rather walk through a landscape than queue for one. Milder temperatures mean you can comfortably cover real distances on foot, without the exhaustion, dehydration risk, or midday shutdown that comes with hiking in 35°C-plus heat. Cooler-climate destinations also tend to see far fewer visitors during peak summer, so trails, villages, and viewpoints that would otherwise be packed in July and August stay quiet and unhurried. That lower footfall is better for the places themselves too: spreading demand away from overtouristed hotspots eases pressure on local infrastructure and natural landscapes, making coolcation travel a genuinely more sustainable way to explore. For hikers specifically, it also just means better walking days, brighter light for photos, and the kind of crisp, fresh air that makes a multi-day trail feel like an adventure rather than an endurance test.
Self-guided Hiking Holidays as Coolcations
For those eager to explore new horizons without the discomfort of scorching temperatures, a self-guided hiking holiday presents an ideal escape. The UK and Ireland, known for their temperate climate and picturesque landscapes, are an inviting option, with mild summer temperatures ranging from 12 to 20°C (54 to 68°F) in Scotland and 15 to 20°C (59 to 68°F) in Ireland. These cooler climates are perfect for long hikes, with trails like the Dingle Way in Ireland or the West Highland Way in Scotland allowing travelers to enjoy the crisp, refreshing air while taking in breathtaking scenery. In Wales, where summer temperatures typically hover between 14 to 21°C (57 to 70°F), the Pembrokeshire Coast Path offers stunning coastal vistas, while England’s Hadrian’s Wall Path, with its pleasant summer range of 15 to 22°C (59 to 72°F), invites hikers to explore ancient history in a serene environment free from extreme heat.
Surprisingly, even destinations traditionally associated with warmer climates—like northern Spain and Portugal—can be excellent coolcation options during the off-peak months. Galicia, in northern Spain, experiences a milder summer climate with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25°C (59 to 77°F), making the famed Camino Frances pilgrimage route an enjoyable journey for much of the year. This peaceful trail winds through lush landscapes and charming villages, offering a serene, cooler alternative to more popular summer hotspots. Similarly, Portugal’s Rota Vicentina, also known as the Fishermen’s Trail, is best explored during spring or autumn, when temperatures range from 15 to 24°C (59 to 75°F). During these seasons, the weather is comfortable, the countryside vibrant, and the usual tourist crowds have receded, allowing for a more relaxed, authentic hiking experience.
Beyond providing relief from high temperatures, Coolcations also promote more sustainable travel habits. By choosing cooler destinations, often located in less crowded, off-the-beaten-path areas, travelers can help reduce the environmental strain caused by mass tourism in popular hotspots. Additionally, shifting travel dates to cooler months helps alleviate the pressure on infrastructure and resources during the peak summer season, when many destinations face overcrowding and strain on local ecosystems. As more travelers embrace this trend, the ripple effect could lead to a more sustainable and balanced tourism industry overall.
In essence, Coolcations are not just about escaping the heat—they represent a broader shift towards mindful, sustainable travel that takes into account both personal comfort and the well-being of the planet. Whether you’re trekking along the windswept coastlines of Ireland or exploring the peaceful trails of Portugal, a Coolcation allows you to reconnect with nature, recharge in a more comfortable climate, and experience destinations in a more authentic, less hurried way.
For more information on planning your perfect coolcation visit our website to explore our range of self-guided hiking tours.
