From Snow-Capped Peaks to Misty Forests: Planning the Ultimate Coolcation

As global temperatures soar and traditional summer holidays become sweltering and uncomfortable, a new trend is taking off: the Coolcation. More travelers are swapping sunburns for scarves and heatwaves for highlands.

Whether it’s wandering through alpine villages or breathing in the crisp air of northern forests, cool vacation destinations are becoming the go-to escape. These chilly getaways aren’t just refreshing, they’re becoming a climate-conscious choice as well.

Why Cool is the New Hot

Research supports this rising preference for cooler climates. A 2024 study published in Heliyon found a direct link between extreme heat and decreased tourism demand in affected areas. This change in traveler behavior is prompting many to seek winter travel destinations even during summer months.

According to Dr. Petra Klima, a climate-tourism researcher based in Austria, “We’re seeing an increasing number of tourists opt for moderate or cooler climates not only for comfort but as a response to the changing environment.”

Whether it's escaping heatwaves or seeking serenity in the snow, the idea of Coolcation is resonating across age groups and demographics.

Choosing Your Perfect Cool Spot

Not all cool destinations are created equal. For some, the best cold-weather vacations are about snowy adventures, skiing in the Swiss Alps or snowshoeing in Colorado. For others, it’s about soaking in the silence of a misty forest in New Zealand or enjoying log cabins in the Scottish Highlands.

A 2025 article in the International Journal of Biometeorology assessed how different European regions, like Hungary, are expected to shift in climate suitability for tourism. The study suggested an increase in interest for off-season travel to traditionally cooler areas as warmer regions become less attractive during peak months.

This shift opens up hidden gems as potential hotspots, or rather cold spots, for travel.

Coolcation Planning Tips

Start by identifying the kind of experience you want. Are you looking for adventure or relaxation? Snow or fog? Mountain getaways are ideal for those craving elevation, scenic views, and a mix of activities from hiking to hot springs.

You’ll also want to consider the timing. A coolcation doesn't have to mean winter. Many destinations, like Tasmania or parts of Canada, offer mild summer temperatures while the rest of the world sizzles.

According to a 2025 study published in Sustainability, many travelers are factoring climate change into their travel choices, with growing awareness of carbon footprints and extreme weather risks.

As travel expert and sustainable tourism advocate Lauren Breckner explains, “People want more than just a break, they want to feel safe and connected to nature. Cool destinations offer both.”

Destinations Worth Adding to Your List

If you’re looking for cool vacation destinations, here are a few worth considering:

• Banff, Canada: Rugged landscapes and glaciers.
• Tasmania, Australia: Misty forests and cool coastal breezes.
• Sapporo, Japan: Snow festivals and alpine charm.
• Queenstown, New Zealand: A mix of adventure and calm.
• Reykjavik, Iceland: Northern lights and endless daylight (or darkness!).

These spots don’t just offer relief from heat. They’re also culturally rich and less crowded compared to tropical destinations.

In fact, a 2024 meta-analysis published in the Journal of Sustainable Tourism analyzed how climate and adaptation behaviors affect tourism trends. The findings pointed to a rise in demand for cooler, high-latitude travel experiences, especially in regions with climate-conscious infrastructure.

When Forests Beat the Beach

One often-overlooked perk of cool travel is the vibe. Think cozy fires, early nights, and peace that’s hard to find in crowded beach resorts. Chill vacations offer an entirely different pace. They encourage mindfulness, slower travel, and often involve supporting small local communities.

A recent 2025 study in Pure and Applied Geophysics explored how microclimates in coastal Turkish towns impact the duration and comfort of tourist stays. It revealed that cooler microclimates led to longer visits and more positive tourist feedback.

This aligns with the broader sentiment that travelers are no longer just chasing warmth, they’re chasing wellbeing.

Coolcation: The Escape You Didn't Know You Needed

From snowy peaks to forested valleys, the Coolcation is more than a travel trend, it’s a lifestyle shift. It’s a response to the times, where comfort meets conscience, and relaxation doesn’t require a fan or sunscreen. With science backing it, expert voices supporting it, and nature offering it, there’s never been a better time to plan your next chill adventure.

So whether you're searching for winter travel destinations, the best cold weather vacations, or relaxing mountain getaways, remember this: your ideal escape might just be where the temperature drops and the beauty rises. The future of travel is cool, quite literally.

Time to trade in your flip-flops for fleece, your next Coolcation awaits.