5 Cool-Weather Destinations to Escape the Heat This Summer

Ah, summertime. Long, hot days and sultry evenings - perfect for soaking in the sun on the beach or by the pool, sipping icy frozen drinks. Of course, not everyone loves the hot weather that goes hand-in-hand with the summer season.

In fact, some would rather escape it altogether! If you’re the type who is constantly seeking shade and A/C during the summertime, go ahead and add these 5 cool-weather destinations to your bucket list.

1. Patagonia

This rugged, sparsely populated region is shared by Chile and Argentina, and there are epic adventures to be had on both sides of the Andes.

Cruise down the Valdes Peninsula in search of whales, elephant seals, sea lions, and penguins; rent a car and drive down Argentina’s scenic Ruta Nacional 40; explore the ice fields and glaciers of Torres del Paine and Los Glaciares National Park; or marvel at The Lighthouse at the End of the World...just to name a few ideas.

2. Norway

With its mild temperatures, breathtaking landscapes and brilliant midnight sun, Norway is in many ways the ultimate summer destination. Start in the hip capital city of Oslo, where you’ll learn about the Vikings and soak in the modern European city vibes.

Then venture to Bergen, where you can hike across glaciers and cruise through the deep fjords. Don’t miss the scenic (albeit hair-raising) drive along the Geiranger-Trollstigen National Tourist Route, and - if you’re feeling adventurous - the northernmost county of Finnmark, home to arctic tundra and one of the world’s northernmost towns.

3. Iceland

During the peak of summer, Reykjavik gets nearly 20 hours of sunlight...meaning whether you’re a night owl or an earlier riser, you’ll have plenty of time for exploring. Enjoy the city’s museums and cafes, but be sure to plan plenty of time outside Reykjavik, too.

Rent a car and tour Iceland’s iconic Golden Circle, where you’ll discover countless glaciers, geysers, and waterfalls. Be sure to visit the utterly magical Snaefellsnes Peninsula, as well as the rejuvenating thermal waters of the Blue Lagoon.

4. Greenland

If you’re in search of the ultimate frozen landscape to explore this summer, look no further than Greenland. On the west coast, soak in the sweeping views of the Greenland Ice Cap, discover the beauty of Disko Bay, and explore the Icefjord just off the coast of Ilulissat.

Alternatively, venture across the wild wilderness of southern Greenland; uncover the myths, legends, and vibrant Inuit culture of eastern Greenland; or dogsled and hike your way across the glaciers and fjords to the north. For a truly unforgettable experience, embark on a helicopter tour above the country’s mountains and icebergs.

5. New Zealand

Thanks to its position in the Southern Hemisphere, July is the peak of New Zealand’s winter season. And while you may think of this island nation as a summer destination, June through August is actually a wonderful time to visit.

Hit the legendary ski slopes near Queenstown and Wanaka, trek across the Franz Josef and Fox glaciers when they’re at their largest and most impressive, or show off your most fashionable winter attire in cosmopolitan Auckland. And if you catch a chill, warm up in any of New Zealand’s gorgeous natural hot pools, like the South Island’s Tekapo Springs.