Why Not Plan a Coolcation?

Summer these days means record high temperatures and almost unbearably hot days. I don’t know about you but doing an afternoon walking tour in Rome doesn’t have quite the same appeal as it did maybe ten or twenty years ago — especially when many places might give you a singular ice cube in your cold drink. And that’s only if you beg a little.

No, these summers, I’m more interested in coolcations. Think temperatures where the highs barely reach 75F, where the sun is out but not harsh, and where you can spend the afternoon sitting outside at a café without leaving a sweaty imprint when you stand up. The dream! 

Here are just some of the coolest destinations for a coolcation:

Cool Destinations for a Coolcation

Melbourne & Victoria, Australia

The ultimate way to avoid the summer heat? Head down south below the equator where summer means winter! Why not plan a trip to Melbourne and Victoria in July? The city is booming with culture, especially for foodies and coffee snobs and the province of state of Victoria is home to one of the most underrated wine regions in the world. Beat the heat with a winter trip!

Why Go Now: Now, when I say winter in Melbourne, I actually mean temperatures in the 40s and 50s Fahrenheit, so a balmy spring day for a New Englander!

Get the Lay of the Land: With so many hidden laneways and arcades, you’ll want to join one of Hidden Secrets’ tours just so you know where to go and what not to miss. And with cooler temperatures – no need to worry about getting overheated! 

Prepare a Picnic: With a group of picky eaters? Head to Queen Victoria Market. Filled with vendors, it’s been around since the 1800s and has often been seen as a way for immigrants to get their businesses started. From deli meats to oysters, there’s truly something everyone will enjoy with plenty of picnic tables and seating to come together and feast.

Australian Cuisine: What exactly makes a dish Australian? Chef Nornie Berro is on a mission to figure that out with her restaurant, Big Esso. Utilizing native Aussie ingredients like wattleseed, she’s redefining the country’s indigenous cuisine and the food she serves is like nothing you’ve tried before.

Up Close with a Kangaroo: When you head out of the city, make sure to stop at Healesville Sanctuary. It’s a zoo-based conservation center focused on educating visitors on Australia’s diverse wildlife. One of the things you can do is visit with koalas and kangaroos. And, yes, I can guarantee both are as amazing in person as you’d hope!

Where to Sip: Drive around Yarra Valley for both the wine and the beauty. Start off with a visit to Yering Station, the very first vineyard in the area. Try the chardonnay!

Check out our Places to Love episode, “Melbourne, Australia” for more

Helgeland, Norway

The whole country of Norway is pretty much a cool seeker’s dream! Most visitors tend to head south towards places like Bergen or Flåm for the fjords or head up north to places like the Lofoten or Tromsø for the mountains. But have you ever wondered where Norwegians themselves flock to for a summer vacation? That would be a region towards the middle of the country known as the Helgeland Coast.

Why Go Now: This is about the warmest Helgeland will be all year, and even then expect highs in the 70s. Plus – midnight sun season means the earliest the sun will set is 11:30 PM. Ever hiked past 5:00 PM before?

Getting Around: For this trip you’ll want to rent a car to get around. Don’t worry if you’re nervous about driving abroad – Norwegian roads are spacious and calm. Speeding fines are strict and expensive, so everyone sticks to the written speed limits. Plus you’ll want a car to drive along the coast and around some of the islands. Just keep an eye on ferry times.

Pee in Paradise: Yes, you read that correctly! To visit the Helgeland Coast, you’ll likely fly into Bodø and drive down from there. When you need to stop to use the bathroom, pull over at Ureddplassen, otherwise known as the world’s most beautiful public toilet.

Get Those Steps In: If you enjoy hiking, Norway will be your personal paradise. There are mountains everywhere in Helgeland, and some islands are more mountain that village! On the island of Vega is the Vegatrappa (Vega Stairs) where you can climb 1,300 stairs for the most incredible views.

Fluff Overload: Add the island of Lovund to your list if you want a chance at spotting some adorable puffins! Puffin season lasts from April to August and over 300,000 of these guys come here to nest. Stay at Lovund Hotel and ask them for guidance on where to look. 

Coastal Maine

One of my favorite places in the whole world – coastal Maine is truly special in the summer season. Even if you’re partner never wants to go anywhere, you can convince them to come here. I’ve grown up spending summers here, and the rocky landscapes never cease to amaze me. Get out on the water, take in as much lobster (and melted butter!) as you can, and always make time for Acadia National Park.

Why Go Now? While early August is still peak season, you’ll actually see crowds thin out during the last two weeks as kids head back to school. I remember seeing crowds drop off in mid-August back when I was a waitress in my teens! Another bonus? Rental homes, which have a 7-day minimum in peak season, will begin softening this stance around now.

Where to Stay: One of the best areas to stay is in Bar Harbor. It’s a charming town right near Acadia, so it’s a perfect gateway town to the park. For the best rates, though, check closer to Portland, ME, or Portsmouth, NH.

Where to Eat: You’ve gotta go to Flo’s Hot Dogs. I’ve been going here since I was only 12 years old and even had their pigs in a blanket at my wedding. Be sure to get Flo’s special – just trust me. If you’re with a group, gather for a lobster bake at Chauncey Creek. You can bring anything not on the menu, and they’ll provide the lobster, bibs, and melted butter!

Run, Forrest, Run: Be like Forrest Gump and visit Marshall Point Lighthouse. It’s been around since 1858 and was featured in the iconic Tom Hanks movie during his looooong run around America.

Lighthouse Hop: In addition to Marshall Point, there are 50 stunning lighthouses in Maine. My personal favorite? Nubble Light – it’s just storybook beautiful.

Where to Drink: Grab a beer at Tributary Brewing in Kittery. Owner, Tod Mott, is a legend in this state and has been in the brewery world for over three decades.

Wild Beauty in a Park: No visit to coastal Maine is complete without spending time in Acadia National Park. For the tallest point, head up Cadillac Mountain. Don’t miss the popovers at Jordan Pond House!

For an Epic Walk: Opt to stroll along Marginal Way. It runs along Ogunquit Coast and you’ll have big, beautiful beach homes to one side and the ocean to your other. Save for the end of your trip as a way to recalibrate before getting ready to head back to the real world.

On the Water: Trust me, with those water temperatures, you won’t want to spend long swimming in Maine. At the end of August when the ocean is as warm as it’ll ever be, you can still expect temps around 52F. However, you absolutely want to find a way onto the water. My best tip? Book a cruise with Bass Harbor Island Cruises. They’ll take you all around the coast and to a number of beautiful lighthouses. If you’re lucky, you might see some seal pups!

Auckland, New Zealand

Auckland is another “winter” destination that’s perfect for a cooler vacation. It’s perfect for those that want a big city experience but also want easy access to the great outdoors.

Why Go Now:  While many parts of New Zealand do actually get pretty cold this time of year, Auckland manages temperatures between 45 – 58F. The North Island in general is warmer than South Island, which gets snow.

A Hike Within the City: Only 15 minutes on foot from the city center, hike up Pukekawa/Auckland Domain for the best views of the city. 

Lebanese with a Kiwi Twist: Once you work up an appetite, grab a bite at Gemmayze Street. Chef Samir Allen’s family moved to New Zealand from Lebanon over a century ago, and his dishes are inspired by his ancestor’s traditions as well as kitchen life in New Zealand. If you’re in a group of seven or more, opt for the jeeb menu. The dishes will be selected by the kitchen and just brought out to you, no ordering necessary! 

Catch a Match: Can’t go to New Zealand and not catch a rugby match! I’m partial to the Warrior’s Women’s team since they helped me live out my scrum dreams, and they’re back after a 5-year hiatus!

Go for a Walk on the Beach: For some wintry quiet, pack some lunch and drive out to Piha Beach. In the summer months, it’s a surfing hot spot but I have a feeling the water’s a little too cold and rough come July. 

Check out our Places to Love episode, “Auckland, New Zealand” for more

St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada

What if I told you there was a city in Canada that managed to encapsulate the magic of Iceland, Ireland, Norway, England, France, AND Denmark in one place? Welcome to St. John’s in Newfoundland and Labrador (not to be confused with Saint John in New Brunswick). With colorful homes and incredible nature, there’s a reason this place is so well loved.

Why Go Now: Given its northern location, St. John’s can get pretty cold. July is one of the warmest months with highs in the 60s and lows in 50s. Just make sure you book ahead of time, options are limited in this province!

Where to Stay: Leaside Manor is in a 1920s manor-house and one of the most charming places to stay in St. John’s.  It’s also in a nice location to be near downtown and by nature.

For the Best Views: Head to Signal Hill and the iconic Cabot Tower. Since this was a military site back in the day, it’s got the most stunning panoramic views over the habor. 

A Photographer’s Dream: If you love a colorful photo op, walk over towards Jellybean Row. These clapboard homes come in all sorts of vibrant colors, and I swear no one can be unhappy after a stroll here.

Where to Eat: Book a table at the Merchant Tavern, an homage to the merchants that helped build this city. Ingredients are fresh, wild, local, and sustainable.

Unique Souvenirs: Check out the Craft Council of Newfoundland and Labrador. Their shop and pantry on Water Street features crafts from over 150 members.

Lake Geneva and the Valais Region, Switzerland

Switzerland has a beauty that goes unmatched. Hike it, bike it, boat it, and drink it all in.

Why Go Now: Shimmering lakes with a backdrop of majestic mountains make this destination picture-perfect come summer.

Where to Imbibe: At a vineyard! Swiss wine is all made by hand, and created only in small batches, which are almost exclusively consumed within the Switzerland. Go to the Lavaux region’s Dance Vineyard for their light, crisp, slightly salty wine. They’re typically low-alcohol, too, which is great for day drinking!

Where to Stay? Got cash to burn? Drop your bags at Beau Rivage on Lake Geneva. Open since 1865, this one of the few Grand Dame hotels in the world that is still family-owned. If you can splurge on a room, grab lunch and a drink at La Terrasse, their outdoor restaurant overlooking the water.

Where to Mingle with the Locals: Lausanne. Known for its Universities, business and hospitality schools, this place feels young at heart. And where there are young people, there are music festivals. July boasts the Festival Cite, a music and art event held on the cobblestone streets leading up to the Cathedral of Notre Dame, built over 800 years ago. Learn more about this city’s festivals here.

Cuteness Overload: Heaven is a place on earth, and I found it in Barryland. This magical place lets regular people learn the history of, then interact with Switzerland’s National Dog, the St. Bernard.

Fresh Swiss Air: The beautiful Belle Epoque Boats operate on many Swiss lakes, but the most notable trip is on Lake Geneva. Enjoy a breakfast, lunch or dinner cruise aboard, making sure to soak up the stunning views along the way.

Check out our Places to Love episode, “Lake Geneva and the Valais Region” for more

Seattle, Washington, USA

Who doesn’t love summer in the Pacific Northwest? With such a casual, outdoorsy culture, Seattle is the perfect city to visit come July. Enjoy some of the nicest weather you’ll have all year, access to a number of incredible national parks, and an incredible food and drink scene. 

Why Go Now: Temperatures rarely go out of the 70s, making Seattle absolutely lovely come summer. Plus many, many trails in Washington’s parks are sometimes only open from late June – early September, so if you want to go hiking, this is your best chance.

A Must-Visit: No visit to Seattle is complete without stopping in to see the famous fish throw at Pike Place Market! While you’re there, check out the (in)famous bubblegum wall and sample as many dishes as you can before getting too full. Mee Sum Pastry and Piroshky, Piroshky are musts!

The Perfect Day Hike: Start early and drive over to Mt. Rainier National Park. The perfect hike is the Mount Fremont Lookout Trail which is challenging but doable if you’re moderately fit. Plus you’ll have stunning views of Mt. Rainier from the minute you enter the parking lot!

Bill Gates’ Favorite Burger: (Well, one of them!) On your way back from hiking, stop into one of the Burgermaster locations for a fantastic post-hike meal. The first location opened in the 1950s and was the Northwest’s very first drive-in. To this day all their locations except for their spot in University District are drive-in only. Treat yourself to a hand spun root beer shake along with a nice, juicy burger.

Where to Mingle with Locals: For sunset views, join locals at Gaswork Marina Park. You’ll find groups of friends and couples gathered on blankets to take in the marina and and city view. 

For a Sweet Treat: Best ice cream in Seattle? Molly Moon’s! Not only do they have the best flavors, their community-minded business ethos means they focus on using local farmers in the Pacific Northwest and have a ton of initiatives for their employees that go well beyond what a normal company tends to offer.

An Island Day Trip: Bainbridge Island is only a 20-minute ferry ride away and well worth the trip. If you don’t have a car, don’t worry. You can walk onto the ferry and then stick to the beautiful town of Winslow. 

Victoria, British Columbia, Canada

On the opposite side of Canada and located at the southern end of Vancouver Island, Victoria is another gorgeous coolcation option. As the oldest city in the entire Pacific Northwest, it manages to have both an old-warm and coastal charm. Plus, there are very few other destinations that take sustainability as this city does.

Why Go Now: Canada’s west coast tends to say fairly mild all year around but these are by far its warmest, sunniest months with temperatures in the 60s! Perfect for cycling around enjoying all its natural beauty.

Get Lost: Victoria is home to the oldest Chinatown in Canada, and the local community has done a lot to preserve it. Wander through its maze of colorful alleyways and don’t miss Fan Tan Alley!

Rent a Bike: Cyclists rejoice; you’re in one of the most bike-friendly cities in the world! If you’re not sure where to go, start with The Pedlar Bike Tours & Rental Shop.

A Bloomin’ Wonderland: If I were to imagine what the real life Secret Garden might look like, it’d have to be Butchart Gardens.

Grab a Bite: The mission at 10 Acres Bistro is to prove just how bountiful Victoria is, and that means everything they serve comes right from their farm. Another fantastic option is Finest at Sea for, you guessed it, a good, ole classic fish n chips.

Out to Sea: Get out into the water and look for whales with family-owned Eagle Wing Tours. Not only are their practices environmentally friendly, they also donate part of their profits to conservation organizations. Plus, they’ve got a 98% success rate on spotting whales!

Grab a Drink: Catch the sunset from the Lobby Lounge of Fairmount Empress, one of the beautiful Châteauesque railway hotels from the early 1900s. Complete the theme by ordering their Empress drink.

Get the Best Souvenir: The puzzles at Puzzle Lab are more than your average puzzle. (Say that one ten times fast). Not only do the founders curate art from local Canadian artists, giving them royalties on all puzzles sold, they print everything on plywood with unique patterns.

An Afternoon Out: For an afternoon out, drive over to the charming Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse. Here you’ll find over 1,300 organically-grown apple trees and produce all sorts of delicious ciders. Enjoy the sea views while ordering up a flight of ciders to try and all sorts of light dishes from their kitchen. Summer also means it’s patio season!

 

And there you have it – some very cool destinations to visit in July! Any to add? Let me know below!