Coolcations in the Nordics: Where to Escape the Summer Heat
As temperatures soar across much of the world during summer, more and more travellers are seeking out coolcations — holidays that offer relief from heat and humidity, without compromising on adventure, beauty or comfort. At 50 Degrees North, we specialise in Nordic escapes that do just that.
From glacial hikes in Iceland and midnight sun kayaking in Norway, to forest saunas in Finland and seafood feasts in Swedish fishing villages, the Nordics offer a refreshing alternative to the usual summer destinations. Here are a few of our favourite ways to cool down this season — all with striking landscapes, local charm and unique experiences.
Iceland: Geothermal Wonders, Glacier Walks & Epic Roadscapes
Average summer temperatures (June-August):
South (Reykjavik/Vik): 10–13°C
North (Akureyri/Dettifoss): 8–12°C
Even in summer, Iceland stays fresh and invigorating. Our self-drive itineraries invite you to explore the land of fire and ice at your own pace — from glacier hikes and lava caves to whale watching and hot spring soaks. Discover the otherworldly landscapes of the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, snorkel the crystal-clear Silfra fissure, and unwind with a premium soak at the Blue Lagoon.
Coolcation highlights:
· Glacier walking, lava cave tours and Silfra snorkelling
· Outdoor hot springs, including Hvammsvik and the Blue Lagoon
· Whale safari and Icelandic ‘Viking sushi’ boat tours
· Boutique countryside hotels and deluxe spa stays
Example travel package: Snæfellsnes & Golden Circle self-drive
Norway: Arctic Coastlines, Sea Adventures & Midnight Sun Magic
Average summer temperatures (June-August):
South (Oslo/Bergen): 15–22°C
North (Tromsø/Lofoten): 8–17°C
Northern Norway in summer is an experience like no other. With the sun barely setting, you’ll have endless daylight to kayak fjords, hike coastal cliffs, or watch sea eagles soar over Trollfjorden. Journey through Tromsø, Senja and the Lofoten Islands on our 8-day itinerary, staying in traditional fishermen’s cabins perched over the sea.
Coolcation highlights:
· Midnight sun experiences and Arctic scenery
· Guided kayak and sea eagle safaris
· Stays in rustic Rorbuer (fishermen’s cottages)
· Island-hopping along the scenic Arctic Route
Example travel package: Senja and Lofoten Combined
Finland: Nordic Calm, Forest Escapes & Seaside City Life
Average summer temperatures (June-August):
South (Helsinki/Turku): 15–22°C
North (Lapland/Rovaniemi): 10–20°C
Finland is the perfect balance of peaceful nature and design-led city living. Begin with a few days in Helsinki, where coastal cafés and Nordic architecture shine, then retreat to a forest lodge in Nuuksio National Park. Here, you can canoe still lakes, hike under a canopy of green, and unwind in a morning sauna with only birdsong for company.
Coolcation highlights:
· Sauna and lake swims in national parks
· Slow travel experiences in quiet forests
· Boutique design hotels in Helsinki
· Guided canoeing and forest walks
Example travel package: Helsinki and Boutique Lake Lodge Stay
Image: Michael Matti
Sweden: Coastal Breezes, Forest Trails & Sweet Country Escapes
Average summer temperatures (June-August):
South (Stockholm/Gothenburg): 15–23°C
North (Kiruna/Abisko): 10–18°C
Southern Sweden is an ideal summer road trip destination. Long daylight hours, cool breezes and a gentle rhythm of life make it perfect for couples, families or solo travellers. Ferry to quiet islands, cycle between charming towns, sample fresh prawns at sunset, or learn to make Sweden’s iconic polkagris candy in the town of Gränna.
Coolcation highlights:
· Seaside villages, lakes and forest trails
· Farm stays, country lodges and cosy guesthouses
· Local crafts and produce, from candy-making to seafood
· Slow-paced island life and summer festivals
Example travel package: Stockholm and Idyllic Swedish Countryside Self Drive
Image credit: Visit Sweden
Greenland: Icebergs, Fjords & Arctic Glamping
Average summer temperatures (June-August):
South (Narsarsuaq/Qaqortoq): 8–13°C
North (Ilulissat/Kangerlussuaq): 5–12°C
Remote, wild and impossibly cool — Greenland offers a different kind of luxury. Our 4-day adventure takes you by boat deep into the Nuuk Fjord system for a glamping experience complete with survival suit swims, iceberg kayaking and hot tub stargazing. With only boat or helicopter access, it’s a truly off-grid escape.
Coolcation highlights:
· Iceberg kayaking, glacier hikes and survival suit swims
· Coffee and stories with local families in Arctic villages
· Wood-fired saunas and chef-prepared meals
· Luxury tented accommodation in a fjord-side wilderness camp
Example travel package: Greenland Adventure Break in Nuuk
Faroe Islands: Cliffside Hiking, Puffins & Slow Travel by the Sea
Average summer temperatures (June-August) across islands: 9–13°C
With average summer temps hovering around 10°C, the Faroe Islands are a haven for those who love cool, moody landscapes. Explore misty sea cliffs, ferry to puffin-covered islands, and stay in family-run guesthouses that feel a world away. A highlight is the local hospitality — including heimablídni, a traditional Faroese dinner served in a private home.
Coolcation highlights:
· Guided hikes and scenic ferry journeys
· Puffins, waterfalls and turf-roofed villages
· Home-cooked Faroese dinners with locals
· Peaceful self-drive itinerary across remote islands
Example travel package: Local Secrets of the Faroe Islands
Ready to Plan Your Coolcation?
Whether you’re craving forest stillness, coastal winds or Arctic light, a coolcation in the Nordics offers something uniquely refreshing — both for the body and the mind.
At 50 Degrees North, we’ve carefully curated these itineraries to combine authentic local experiences with boutique comfort and low-impact travel. Get in touch to start planning your escape from the heat — and into the wild, calm beauty of the North.
Summer Self-Guided Travel Packages
All our tours are designed with sustainability in mind and are fully carbon-offset. As a certified B Corp, we work closely with local communities and handpicked partners who share our environmental and social values.