“Coolcations”: Summer Vacations in Colder Climates Gain Popularity

As the sun beats down relentlessly in cities buzzing with summer heatwaves, a refreshing breeze is stirring among travelers—an emerging trend that whispers of frosty escapes and serene landscapes untouched by the sweltering blaze. This summer, the allure of “coolcations” has begun captivating wanderers like me—vacations set not in tropical warmth, but in the crisp embrace of colder climates. It’s a beckoning to explore the quiet elegance of summer in places where cool air reigns and nature dons a different kind of summer dress, one woven from glaciers, alpine blooms, and whispering pines.

Why Choose Cool Over Hot?

For years we chased sun-drenched beaches, cocktails kissed by sunshine, and golden sands stretching endlessly under azure skies. But lately, an understated charm has been reclaiming its crown—coolcations are not mere escapes from heat, they are invitations to slow down and reconnect with nature’s subtler beauty and pristine serenity.

Imagine waking up to the gentle crunch of frost underfoot, the morning air scented with pine and wildflowers, and panoramic mountain vistas that stretch beyond the clouds. It’s a world where summer days are long but never oppressive, where vibrant greenery contrasts against snowy caps that refuse to melt. This shift is more than aesthetic—it’s an experiential revival. The calm and quiet, the invigorating chill, the thrill of stunningly crisp daylight—it awakens senses dulled by overheating cities and overcrowded resorts.

My Own Journey Into the Cool

“I found myself trading sandy flip-flops for hiking boots one summer — hiking through the Norwegian fjords when the midnight sun bathed the landscape in surreal shades of gold and lavender. It was a revelation. Cool air filled my lungs, the silence was profound, and the connection I felt to the earth was deeply grounding.”

That trip changed my view of summer travel forever. Norway’s coolclimates unveiled landscapes painted with intricate glaciers, serene lakes, and wildflower carpets that bloom vibrant even under the gentlest of suns. The contrast—between the warmth of the endless daylight and the chill that kissed the breeze—was magical. And it wasn’t just Scandinavia; Iceland, the Scottish Highlands, Canada’s Rockies, New Zealand’s southern coast—each has whispered the same invitation: experience summer beyond the heat.

The Rise of Coolcations

Data and travel experts now confirm what I felt intuitively. Coolcations are trending. In fact, destinations traditionally associated with winter enthusiasts are seeing a surge in summer visitors looking for a different kind of adventure—soft hikes through alpine meadows instead of white-knuckle ski slopes, iceberg spotting in gently lapping waters rather than sunbathing on tropical shores.

This shift speaks volumes about the modern traveler’s evolving priorities. The warm-weather crowd, fatigued by overcrowded tourist traps and relentless heat, seeks spaces of calm and clarity. They want to experience nature’s grandeur without sacrificing comfort. Plus, cooler temperatures mean longer, more fulfilling outdoor activity—with less exhaustion and more enjoyment.

Tips for Your Coolcation Adventure

If this stirs your wanderlust, here are a few insights from my travels to help you embrace your own coolcation:

• Layer lightly but wisely. Summer cold climates aren’t always freezing, but you’ll want breathable layers—think merino wool, fleeces, and sturdy jackets that adapt from brisk mornings to mild afternoons.
• Book accommodations with cozy charm. Mountain lodges, cabins with fireplaces, or boutique inns can enhance the atmosphere of a coolcation, offering a warm sanctuary at the end of invigorating days outdoors.
• Explore beyond the obvious. Venture into hidden trails, discover local summer festivals, or join guided tours that delve into local culture and folklore that thrive in these cooler climes.
• Immerse in unique activities. Think glacier trekking, spotting wildlife roaming alpine meadows, kayaking in frigid but crystal-clear waters, or simply sitting by a warm fire under an endless summer twilight.

As a cultural explorer, this trend excites me because it’s not just about escaping heat; it’s about rediscovering the world through a cooler, gentler lens. Coolcations hold a promise of balance, beauty, and a deeply refreshing experience—one that invites you to feel alive in a way the summer sun sometimes overwhelms.

So here’s to stepping off the beach chair and into a different kind of summer story—one where the air is cool, the spaces vast, and the adventures unforgettable. Where the warmth of connection, wonder, and discovery fills the soul instead of the heat.

Marco Santiago