As climate change raises temperatures worldwide, travelers are considering trips to cooler destinations to beat the heat. A new ranking highlights the 20 most popular ‘Coolcation’ destinations for 2026, with Greenland’s capital, Nuuk, at the top. Read on to find the 20 top ‘Coolcation’ summer destinations for 2026.
With rising temperatures across Southern Europe, “coolcations”—holidays focused on mild weather, fresh air, and outdoor exploration—have surged in popularity. Inghams Walking offers specialized summer packages tailored for cool-weather escapes, including top trending northern destinations like Nuuk (Greenland) and the Norwegian fjords.
Traditionally, holidaymakers opt for pleasantly warm destinations, especially during the summer. Relaxing on a sunbed on the beach or strolling through a sunny Italian village has long been many people’s ideal picture of a summer break. According to the Association for British Travel Agents, 65% of (British) holiday-goers still aren’t thinking about changing up their Mediterranean break.
However, climate change is taking its toll, especially in Europe. Data gathered by the World Meteorological Organization show that Europe is the fastest-warming continent on Earth, with temperatures increasing at twice the global rate. This means that by 2050, about half of the European population will be at (very high) risk of heat stress.
Top Coolcation Destinations
Nuuk, Greenland: Crowned by Inghams as the top coolcation destination, this remote Arctic capital offers average summer temperatures, iceberg boat tours, and deep-sea fishing.
Norway (e.g., Flåm & Bergen): Known for its dramatic fjords, the Flåm Railway, and stunning mountain walking routes with no need for a car.
In order to provide travellers with some coolcation inspiration, Inghams Walking thus put together a list of those cool destinations that are currently the most popular amongst their customers.
- Nuuk, Greenland (+48.39%)
- Les Contamines-Montjoie, France (+39.79%)
- Beara Peninsula, Ireland (+23.11%)
- Jotunheimen National Park, Norway (+22.33%)
- Tasiilaq, Greenland (+22.24%)
- Voss, Norway (+21.12%)
- Lake Bohinj, Slovenia (+20.66%)
- Lech, Austria (+19.63%)
- Dolomites, Italy (+18.40%)
- Arinsal, Andorra (+17.91%)
- Tröllaskagi Peninsula, Iceland (+15.87%)
- Wilderswil, Switzerland (+15.67%)
- Kandersteg, Switzerland (+14.18%)
- Balestrand, Norway (+10.92%)
- Mürren, Switzerland (+10.61%)
- Fiordland, New Zealand (+10.20%)
- Sils Maria, Switzerland (+9.40%)
- Hornstrandir Nature Reserve, Iceland (+6.36%)
- Torridon, Scotland (+5.49%)
- Cape Breton Highlands, Canada (+4.87%)
The top three are completed by the Beara Peninsula, located on Ireland’s south-west coast. The peninsula counts no less than two mountain ranges, the Caha Mountains and the Slieve Miskish Mountains, making it a great option for travelers who enjoy marveling at the sea while climbing their next summit.
The 20 Top ‘Coolcation’ Summer Destinations 2026, compiled by Tor Kjolberg.
Feature image (top): Tvindefossen waterfall in Voss. © Go Fjords.