3 of the best coolcations – within your favourite European countries

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Traditional summer destinations have witnessed soaring temperatures over the past few years, with popular Mediterranean hotspots such as Cyprus, Crete and Sicily regularly seeing the thermometer pass 40C during the peak summer months of July and August.

Some travellers have been feeling the heat, choosing to shift their visit to the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring instead. But for those who still like to get away during the summer, switching to a destination with a milder climate – known as a ‘coolcation’ – might be the answer.

While many assume this means swapping a sunny Mediterranean spot for somewhere in northern Europe and having to go back to the drawing board to find a destination that appeals, you might not need to look quite as far afield.

There are often plenty of alternatives within the same country – think tapas in northern Spain, historic towns in the Italian Lakes and wonderful walks in the French Alps – that come with the added benefit of fewer tourists and lower prices, even during peak season.

Here are a few coolcations to offer clients searching for an alternative to the most popular summer spots.

Like the French Riviera?

Drenched in sun-soaked glamour, the French Riviera, aka the Côte d’Azur, has been a playground for the rich and famous for more than 200 years. Names such as Cannes, St Tropez and Monaco roll off the tongue, while the proliferation of Belle Époque architecture makes it feel just as pretty as the pictures – plus, this region is a fantastic spot for strolls along the seafront and countryside hikes.

Try the French Alps