TravelLocal spotlights global destinations where fresh air, fewer tourists, and cooler temperatures redefine the summer getaway
As global temperatures rise and popular cities overflow with tourists, a new summer travel trend is gaining momentum: the coolcation.
“More and more travellers are looking for alternatives to the overheated, overcrowded summer holiday, We help people connect with local experts in refreshing destinations - places where summer is still enjoyable, and you can truly experience the world beyond the tourist trail.”
Huw Owen, Co-founder at TravelLocal
The Case for a Coolcation
Beyond the discomfort of sweltering streets and packed tourist hotspots, major cities are increasingly becoming urban heat islands, exacerbating climate concerns. By choosing cooler, less-crowded destinations travellers can enjoy a more comfortable experience. TravelLocal is answering the call with a handpicked list of cool, crowd-free destinations perfect for 2025.
Top Coolcation Picks for 2025
1. Turkey’s High-Altitude Hideaways
Ditch the summer crowds in Istanbul or Antalya and head inland for a cool change of pace. Cappadocia’s high plateau offers breezy mornings, sunrise balloon rides, and cave hotels far from the heat while the Kaçkar Mountains in the northeast are known for verdant trails, glacial lakes, and Alpine charm in a region of Turkey untouched by mass tourism.
Average summer temperatures in Kaçkar region: 20–25°C
2. Colombia’s Highland Havens
While coastal cities simmer, the Coffee Region and colonial hill towns of Colombia, like Villa de Leyva, offer eternal spring climates and cultural richness. Stay in eco-lodges among the wax palms, hike to waterfalls, and sip world-class coffee at source.
Average summer temperatures in Villa de Leyva: 19°C
3. Japan’s Northern Wilderness
When Tokyo swelters, Hokkaido stays mild and wild. Long days, flower fields, and volcanic lakes make this region Japan’s most underrated summer escape. Explore Daisetsuzan National Park, spot wildlife in Shiretoko, or savour seafood in cool seaside towns like Otaru.
Average summer temperatures in Sapporo: 22°C
4. Canada’s Cool & Coastal Charms
Canada does summer differently. In Nova Scotia, colourful fishing villages and sea breezes keep things crisp while inland, the Laurentian Mountains are a haven for swimming, stargazing, and unplugging from the heat.
Average summer temperatures in Nova Scotia: 20–23°C
5. Portugal’s Secret Spots
Forget the packed Algarve beaches and instead head for the cool stone villages and forested valleys of Central and Northern Portugal. The Serra da Estrela mountains offer alpine lakes and artisan cheese, while the Peneda-Gerês mountains, north of Porto, promise lush trails, wild swimming spots, and fresh mountain air, all with far fewer crowds. Or venture farther afield to the Azores, a remote Atlantic archipelago where volcanic craters cradle shimmering lakes, hydrangea-lined roads wind through emerald hills, and geothermal springs bubble beneath dramatic coastal cliffs.
Average summer temperatures in the Peneda-Gerês region: 22–26°C and in the Azores: 23–26°C.
Beat the Heat: Tips from TravelLocal Experts
- Look up or head north: Altitude and latitude are your best friends when temperatures climb. Mountain towns, highland plateaus, and destinations further from the equator often stay cooler, even during summer’s peak.
- Avoid urban heat traps: Big cities soak up the sun and radiate it right back at you so opt instead for breezy coastal villages, shady rural stays, or smaller towns where the pace and temperature is a little gentler.
- Travel the shoulder seasons: June and September can offer the same stunning sights as peak summer, but with fewer crowds and milder weather.
- Go local: Locals know where the shade falls in the afternoon, which valleys catch a breeze, and where the waterfalls run strongest. Let them guide you to visit the places the guidebooks miss.
- Rethink your rhythm: Follow the lead of the locals and rise early to make the most of the cool morning hours, then slow down during the heat of the day for a post-lunch siesta.
- Pack for the climate, not the calendar: Light layers, a wide-brimmed hat, and breathable fabrics will serve you far better than seasonal style.
- Swim smart: Seek out the swimming spots that the locals frequent. A bonus is that they're often set in stunning surroundings.
- Embrace the shade: Don’t underestimate the delight of a long, lazy lunch under a vine-covered pergola or an afternoon snooze in a hammock beneath the trees. Sometimes the best way to experience a place is to pause in it.
Ready to plan your Coolcation?
Visit TravelLocal.com to connect with local experts and build your tailor-made escape from the heat.
About TravelLocal
TravelLocal connects curious travellers with handpicked local experts around the world, empowering you to build tailor-made trips rooted in real experiences. Whether it’s a mountain retreat, a remote village, or a local food journey, we bring travellers closer to the heart of a destination.
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Kathryn Rossiter
Kathryn Rossiter
