Get away from summer heat with European destination where its 10C | Travel News | Travel

With the UK recording its hottest weekend of the year so far, including record-breaking temperatures in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, many Brits are now looking to escape the heat, not chase it.

According to new data from Inghams Walking, searches for “cold holiday destinations” have surged by 49% in the past week alone, as travellers trade sun loungers and heatwaves for crisp air, scenic trails, and cool, crowd-free climates.

Dubbed the “coolcation” trend, this shift marks a growing appetite for summer getaways to lower-temperature destinations across Europe. Whether it’s to avoid rising temperatures, enjoy more active holidays, or simply seek a change of scenery, the demand for cooler holidays is heating up.

Leading the trend is Akureyri, a small town in northern Iceland often referred to as “Iceland’s Capital of the North.”

While far less known than Reykjavik, Akureyri has emerged as a top alternative destination. Inghams’ research shows a massive +264.13% increase in travel interest to the region over the last year.

Summer temperatures in Akureyri hover between a refreshing 10–12°C, a stark contrast to the 30°C+ highs experienced in parts of the UK. But it’s not just about staying cool.

Akureyri offers access to Iceland’s Arctic Coast Way, breathtaking fjords, volcanic landscapes, and one of the best places in the country for whale-watching tours.

It’s also home to the world’s northernmost botanical garden and a dramatic hilltop church designed by the architect of Reykjavik’s iconic Hallgrímskirkja.

The findings are part of a broader analysis by Inghams Walking, who reviewed nearly 100 potential “coolcation” destinations across Europe.

Using search volume trends for destinations, hotels, and flights, the team identified a shortlist of emerging hotspots for summer 2025.

Other destinations making the list include the Scottish Highlands, Northern Norway, and Austria’s alpine regions, where travellers can enjoy glacier-fed lakes, mountain hikes, and cooler altitudes, all without the overwhelming summer crowds.

As heatwaves become the new normal in much of southern Europe, a growing number of holidaymakers are rethinking what makes for a perfect summer escape. And for many Brits, the answer might be simple: less sun, more chill.