Feeling exhausted by the sun? Ready for a vacation? While most people are opting for beach trips and city exploration (on hot asphalt!), you may be in the mood for something a little… cooler. A rising travel trend this summer is the coolcation: going to a destination specifically for its milder, or even cold, temperatures. Here’s everything you need to know about coolcations and where to go for your next one.
What’s a Coolcation?
While the northern hemisphere is engulfed by hot weather in the summer months, some locations in the far north or in the southern hemisphere are cool, making them perfect for a coolcation. These cool-climate destinations are unconventional (no massive crowds here) and more eco-friendly than the mass tourism hot spots. While you’ve been wearing our Cooling shorts in the hot summer weather, for this type of trip you can pack our cozy Cotton or Staple shorts to stay warm. Wear our 9” length for extra warmth under pants, or on their own while relaxing in your hotel room or getting some shuteye. Looking for an ultra-thin option that resembles a long john? Try out our Cooling style in our brand-new 17” and 21” lengths.
4 Coolcation Spots to Visit This Summer
1. Ushuaia
Ushuaia is the southernmost city in the world, also known as the “end of the world”. Located on the island of Tierra del Fuego in Argentina, the weather is mostly between 0 and 10 degrees Celsius (40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit), so no hot and sweaty vacations here. Pack a warm jacket to take in the city’s natural beauty, like the stunning landscapes of Tierra del Fuego National Park, and for exploration and adventure, like taking a boat tour to see penguins and sea lions. If you’re more of a city sightseer, Ushuaia has many charming streets filled with cozy cafés and restaurants where you can enjoy empanadas, king crab and delicious desserts. Most people only make a brief stop in Ushuaia before they set sail to Antarctica, but you can buck the trend by making this your coolcation destination. There are plenty of beautiful hotels to stay at, like Arakur, which offer sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and sea.
2. Finnish Lapland
It doesn’t have to be the holiday season to see some reindeer. Head to Finnish Lapland to see elk and reindeer in the summer, and enjoy almost all-day sunshine and daylight to explore.Hike through the pristine Oulanka National Park, famous for its Karhunkierros Trail, or explore the lush forests and crystal-clear lakes that can be found throughout the pristine landscape. A popular activity here is river floating during which you wear a cold-water wetsuit and take in the scenery as you glide down the most beautiful and unique lazy river. Head back to your hotel and enjoy some sauna time to refresh—after a day of the fresh breeze you might even appreciate a little heat, just briefly. Pack your trip with mountain biking, canoeing, fishing and more, all while surrounded by the serene, unspoiled wilderness. A nature lover’s dream!
3. Fogo Island
Fancy a coolcation in North America? Head to Fogo Island, located off the northeast coast of Newfoundland in Canada. This captivating place is exactly what you need if you’re looking for a refreshing summer trip. Famous for its rugged landscape and unique history, you’ll relish the cool breeze coming off the North Atlantic. Explore the many fjords and icebergs of the region by boat or the scenic trails and quaint fishing villas by foot. The most famous property on the island is the Fogo Island Inn, an architectural gem with luxurious accommodations. The inn is renowned for its sustainability practices and connection to the local community, where you’re encouraged to participate in activities like boat building and cod fishing. Picture yourself in a sweater, soaking up the evening fresh air without sweating profusely like you would on the beach or in a scorching hot major city. With its cool climate, unparalleled scenery and rich cultural offerings, Fogo Island is an ideal coolcation spot for a summer vacation that embraces the beauty of cooler weather.
