What exactly is a Coolcation?

A Coolcation is all about choosing your summer holiday for its milder climate rather than the hottest temperatures you can find.

Instead of battling scorching pavements and searching for shade, my clients are asking for:

• Fresh air and comfortable daytime temperatures
• Space to be active outdoors
• Destinations that feel special, scenic and a little bit different
• Holidays that still feel like summer, just without the oppressive heat

These trips often have an active element built in, hiking, kayaking, wild swimming, cycling, scenic rail journeys or simply exploring pretty towns and big landscapes without worrying about the midday sun.

Families with teenagers are particularly drawn to this kind of break. They want experiences, not just a sunbed. I am hearing more requests for “somewhere we can get out and do things” and “a proper adventure we will all remember.”

Where are coolcationers heading?

Northern Europe is really leading the charge.

Countries like Iceland, Finland, Norway, Sweden and Estonia keep appearing on “best places to escape the heat” lists, and it matches what I am seeing in my own enquiries:...gentle summer temperatures, dramatic scenery and a real sense of space.

From my  recent client bookings, one destination stands out right now, Norway.

It ticks so many boxes:

• Dramatic fjords, mountains and glassy lakes
• Long, light evenings in summer
• Comfortable warmth rather than searing heat
• Excellent hiking, kayaking and outdoor activities
• Stylish cities that still feel very liveable and relaxed

(Obviously I'm hoping there is one box they will miss in tomorrow's World Cup!)

How easy is it to get to?

One of the biggest surprises for people is just how easy Norway is from the North West.

From Manchester, you can fly directly into key Norwegian gateways, and typical flight times are around two hours depending on the route. In other words, you can be swapping grey skies for fjord views in not much more time than it sometimes takes to reach the south of France.

Once you arrive, it is also wonderfully simple to get around:

• Bergen works brilliantly as a starting point or standalone city break
• Norway’s rail network is excellent, with scenic routes that become part of the experience
• It is very straightforward to turn a 4–7 night trip into a little journey with two or three different stops

For example, you might:

• Spend a few nights in Bergen exploring the historic harbour, colourful wooden houses and nearby viewpoints
• Take a breathtaking train journey inland, then stay in a fjordside village with mountains and water on your doorstep
• Add a final stop somewhere quieter for walking, kayaking or simply unwinding in nature

It all feels very “big adventure”, but without crazy transfer times or complicated logistics... happy days.

But isn’t Norway expensive?

The Nordic countries have a reputation for being pricey, and yes, they are not typically “budget” destinations. However, there are some pleasant surprises when you look at overall value.

Iceland, for example, is an incredible place to visit but usually comes out as one of the more expensive options, largely because so much has to be imported. For clients who want that big-landscape, cooler-climate feel but do not want costs to spiral, Norway often strikes a better balance.

The key is tailoring the trip to what matters most to you, whether that is a special hotel or lodge, a particular activity, or keeping day-to-day spending under control.

Is a coolcation right for you?

You might want to consider a coolcation if:

• You have younger children and are worried about very high temperatures
• You or a family member struggle in the heat
• You have “done” the Med in peak summer and fancy a change
• You love the idea of being outdoors and active, without having to avoid the middle of the day
• You enjoy dramatic scenery, good food and a slightly slower, more relaxed pace

For many of my clients, Norway in particular offers a lovely middle ground, it still feels like summer, the landscapes are absolutely stunning, and there is so much scope for building in activities and memorable experiences.

And if you happen to be there just after an England win over Norway (🤞), all the better for a bit of friendly football chat with the locals.

Ready to swap heatwaves for fresh air and fjords?

If the thought of 40‑degree pool decks is starting to lose its charm and you like the idea of something cooler, calmer and more active, a coolcation could be a perfect fit.

If you would like to explore ideas for a coolcation, whether to Norway or elsewhere in northern Europe, I would love to help you create the right trip for you so feel free to get in contact. 😊