What will be the hottest travel destinations in 2024? Cooler places, in fact. There’s no denying that record heat continues, but that may be why travelers are fleeing in the opposite direction: booking trips to warmer places with fewer crowds. According to luxury travel network Virtuoso, 82% of travelers are considering cooler, milder climate destinations this year. That’s why… Conde Nast Traveler Recently, “coolcation” was predicted to be one of the biggest travel trends for 2024.
This trending term essentially means traveling to cooler climates with average temperatures below 65°F for activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and of course, escaping the heat. While traditional vacations revolved around sightseeing and sunbathing, this trend has completely changed the way people travel, focusing on seeking out nature experiences that allow them to enjoy the raw beauty of their surroundings in refreshing and comfortable temperatures. Imagine swapping a European beach vacation for a trip to the polar regions to hunt for the Northern Lights. Adventurers are drawn to places like Norway, Finland, Greenland, Alaska, and even travel to the remote continent of Antarctica.
Here are some places where you can experience this. Coldest Coolcation destinations for 2024, from sailing the Norwegian fjords to skiing in the Canadian Rockies.
Norway
“As travel to Norway grows in popularity, Up Norway has seen a surge in summer booking demand, especially with fun-filled summer days perfect for outdoor adventures,” says Torun Tronsvang, founder of sustainable luxury travel curator Up Norway. Tronsvang adds that there’s clearly interest from people looking to escape the heat of southern Europe. The country offers a variety of outdoor activities, including fjord cruises, hiking, kayaking and cycling. The region’s rich indigenous Sámi culture adds to the appeal, with insights into centuries-old traditions and ways of life.
Where to stay: The best way to navigate the fjords is to sail an eco-friendly adventure along the coastline with Norwegian cruise line Havila Voyages. Two new ships have recently been added: Havilah Polaris and Havilah Polluxexpands options for fresh dining and cultural experiences. Travelers can choose from a range of locally invested initiatives to explore the region with more than 70 coastal excursions, including guided husky tours, hikes up Torgatten Mountain and aquaculture tours at local salmon farms.
Finland, Lapland
Located above the Arctic Circle, Finnish Lapland enjoys mild temperatures throughout the year, much cooler than other European hotspots. ForwardKeys Destination Gateway reports that international airfare bookings to Finland in summer are up 14% over last year. The Midnight Sun is a natural phenomenon that occurs in Lapland, where the sun does not set for 24 hours from mid-May to mid-August. Enjoy the Arctic summer to the fullest with river cruises, swimming, golfing in the Arctic Circle, horseback riding, floating, hiking, and visiting husky and reindeer farms. Almost everything you can do during the day can be done at night. Travelers can also go berry picking like the Finns do, or check out the summer solstice festivities. For a year-round winter wonderland experience, Santa Claus Village is open 365 days a year, and Santa greets visitors in the summer.
Where to stay: Finland’s Arctic Treehouse Hotel is a once-in-a-lifetime experience in the great outdoors. The unique accommodation blends seamlessly into the environment, allowing visitors to enjoy nature alongside modern amenities. The on-site restaurant, Lakas Restaurant & Bar, has a seasonally changing menu and a cozy fireplace for a nightcap.
Antarctica
Despite Antarctica’s harsh environment, the icy continent is becoming an increasingly popular travel destination, with its untouched natural beauty being its biggest draw. Some might even say it’s the ultimate coolcation spot. While extreme temperatures prevent tourists from visiting during the US summer, Antarctica’s summer months of October to February are the best time to visit. Visitors can see wildlife in their natural habitat, from penguins to seals to whales. In a world where travel often revolves around comfort and convenience, Antarctica’s appeal lies in its ruggedness and remoteness, offering a glimpse into a truly untouched wilderness.
Where to stay: Arrive by private jet and stay overnight at White Desert’s unique camp for a luxurious, adventurous and carbon-neutral experience. Perhaps the most exclusive hotel in the world, White Desert accommodates only 12 guests per itinerary, offering a bucket-list-worthy experience of sleeping on land in Antarctica. The collection includes three camps: Witchaway, Echo and Wolf’s Gang.
Kangaroo Island, Australia
While many flock to Australia’s sunny shores during the summer rush, Kangaroo Island has emerged as a winter getaway. As the US heats up for summer, Australia gears up for winter, providing plenty of sunshine to explore the island. Mild temperatures, with average temperatures ranging from 55°F to 68°F, provide ideal conditions for bushwalking and wildlife spotting, including koalas, kangaroos, wallabies and echidnas. The cooler weather is also perfect for exploring the island’s trails and must-see attractions, such as Remarkable Rocks and Admiral’s Arch coastal caves.
Where to stay: Southern Ocean Lodge is a luxury lodge located on cliffs overlooking the ocean, allowing you to experience Kangaroo Island’s wildlife at its most active during the cooler months. Whether you’re looking to see newborn calves or marvel at the dramatic sight of winter storms battering the white sand beaches, a stay on Kangaroo Island allows travellers to slow down, immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the beauty of Australia’s peak winter season.
Alberta, Canada
Alberta is home to some of Canada’s best attractions, including Banff National Park, Edmonton, and Calgary. It has a significantly longer cool season than the US, making it an ideal coolcation spot, with an average temperature of 65°F, depending on the region. While most of the ice is gone in the summer, some areas stay below freezing year-round, such as Mount Fairview, and you can also enjoy glacier hiking at spots like the Columbia Icefield Skywalk.
Where to stay: Enjoy a stay at the 5-star Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, enjoying a fantastic location in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Banff National Park. The iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise are the hotel’s backdrop. Enjoy easy access to all kinds of outdoor activities, including skiing and snowboarding, and end your day relaxing in the hotel’s spa or heated outdoor pool.
