One might be thinking, isn’t most of Europe just as hot as it is in the states in the summer? And one might be right. When the Mediterranean sun begins to sizzle and southern Europe hums with summer crowds, the world’s most discerning travelers know that the right move is to head north where crisp air, dramatic landscapes, and refined luxury await. It might be a better idea to save the Mediterranean region for shoulder season (May & September are my recommendations) and take this opportunity to visit the North where the weather is fair and mild.
From the Scottish Highlands to Iceland’s ethereal spas, this is where the elite go to unwind, recharge, and rediscover the magic of summer sans the heatwave. So without any further ado, here are my top picks for high-end journeys that will keep you cool this summer!
1. Scotland: Castles, Countryside, and Timeless Charm
There’s something effortlessly regal about summer in Scotland. Rolling green hills, misty lochs, and centuries-old castles set the stage for a truly luxurious escape. Imagine staying in a restored baronial estate in the Highlands, sipping whisky by a crackling fire when the sun goes down, or taking a private golf tour through St. Andrews. The Scottish Highlands offer cool air, cinematic landscapes, and five-star hospitality, all wrapped up in proud heritage. For a coastal touch, head to the Isle of Skye, where dramatic cliffs and boutique lodges feel worlds away from summer’s chaos.
2. Iceland: The Land of Fire, Ice, and Endless Surprises
While the rest of Europe basks in blazing heat, Iceland offers the world’s most extraordinary natural air-conditioning. Midnight sun, glacier hikes, geothermal spas, and otherworldly scenery make it a top-tier destination for adventurers and luxury travelers alike. Stay at the world-famous Blue Lagoon Retreat, where you can soak in milky blue waters framed by volcanic rock, or venture into the Icelandic Highlands for heli-hiking, private glacier tours, and intimate lodges that redefine remote indulgence. There is so much to see and do here, I recommend staying for at least 2 weeks!
3. Norway: Fjords, Fine Dining, and Fjell Style
Norway is a masterpiece of nature with its deep-blue fjords, jagged peaks, and sleek design that creates a landscape that’s both wild and refined. The elite arrive aboard private yachts or luxury cruises to glide through the UNESCO-listed Geirangerfjord and Nærøyfjord, where waterfalls tumble down sheer cliffs. On land, five-star lodges offer seclusion and style in equal measure. Pair that with world-class Nordic cuisine and serene hiking trails, and Norway becomes the very definition of elevated tranquility.
4. Denmark: Effortless Sophistication and Coastal Cool
Minimalist design meets coastal charm in Denmark, where luxury comes quietly through craftsmanship, cuisine, and impeccable attention to detail. Copenhagen’s Michelin-starred restaurants (including the legendary Noma) draw culinary enthusiasts from around the world, while boutique hotels set the standard for Scandinavian refinement. For a coastal escape, head to Skagen or Bornholm, where chic seaside villas and art-inspired retreats offer a refreshing, breezy take on summer chill days.
5. Sweden: Archipelago Adventures and Forest Hideaways
In Sweden, you will find that simplicity is done beautifully. The Stockholm Archipelago, with its 30,000 islands, offers endless opportunities for private yacht charters, sailing excursions, and waterfront villas. Further north, Sweden’s Lapland region provides summer serenity with luxury lodges like the Arctic Bath and Treehotel, where design meets wilderness. Guests can enjoy midnight kayaking, forest saunas, and candlelit dinners under the glowing Nordic sky- all without breaking a sweat.
6. Finland: Lakes, Luxury Lodges, and Wellness Escapes
Finland might be known for its saunas, but it’s also home to some of Europe’s most rejuvenating summer getaways. The Finnish Lakeland region is dotted with exclusive lakeside villas, glass-domed lodges, and private saunas overlooking serene waters. The atmosphere here feels restorative! Think forest bathing, lake swims, and locally sourced cuisine served fireside. In Helsinki, you will find design-forward hotels and gourmet dining that blend urban sophistication with Nordic calm. For travelers seeking to disconnect, Finland offers the ultimate luxury: peace, privacy, and pure air.
7. Ireland: Emerald Landscapes and Coastal Grandeur
Cool, misty, and full of character: Ireland is another northern gem beloved by travelers across the globe. Stay in a stately manor like Ashford Castle, explore the rugged Wild Atlantic Way, and tee off at world-renowned golf courses with ocean views. Ireland’s charm lies in its balance of warmth and wildness, which can be seen in many spots around the country including the serene stillness of the Cliffs of Moher. For those who love culture, history, and scenic drives, Ireland offers a summer escape that’s as soulful as it is stylish.
8. The Faroe Islands: The Secret Nordic Escape
Tucked between Iceland and Norway, the Faroe Islands remain one of Europe’s most exclusive secrets, but I’m here to tell you all about it! Dramatic sea cliffs, emerald-green landscapes, and a raw, untouched beauty draw elite travelers seeking something you won’t find anywhere else. Stay in luxury lodges overlooking the North Atlantic or dine at KOKS, the world-famous Michelin-starred restaurant housed in a remote farmhouse. Here, isolation feels indulgent- a reminder that the most spectacular destinations are sometimes the hardest to reach.
Northern Europe Is the New Summer Hotspot (Coolspot?)
Wise travelers are discovering what locals have always known- summer in Northern Europe is sublime. Days are long, light is golden, and temperatures hover in that perfect “sweater-weather” range. Whether you’re exploring fairy-tale villages in Scotland, chartering a yacht through Norwegian fjords, or soaking in Icelandic hot springs, you’ll find that the north offers space, serenity, and understated sophistication.
For the elite, it’s not just about avoiding the heat, it’s about embracing a different kind of summer: one that feels refreshing, restorative, and unlike any other. And I would love to help get you there!
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