If there’s one thing we’re committing to this year, it’s more travel. While beach hopping in sun-soaked escapes will always have its charm — think azure seas, warm breezes, and lush landscapes made for living in T-shirts and shorts — 2026 is also about trying something a little cooler.
Enter the rise of the “coolcation.” This growing travel mood swaps sunbathing for snowfall or cooler weather, steering us toward winter destinations and places celebrated for their crisp climates far from the usual tropical favourites like Thailand, the Philippines, or the Caribbean. From European villages and alpine cities to Nordic regions that quietly shine in winter, it’s a trade of heat waves for sweater weather and fast-paced itineraries for slower, more intentional journeys. With cooler temperatures comes easier exploration, gentler rhythms, and a welcome break for anyone who wilts in the heat.
At its heart, a coolcation is about embracing the season and experiencing these destinations at their most atmospheric. Here are a few places we’re eyeing for coolcations this year.
– Featured image by Igor Bramuzzo on Unsplash –
Chamonix, France
Chamonix (Chamonix-Mont-Blanc) wins you over without raising its voice. Tucked beneath the mighty Mont Blanc, this alpine town has long been a favourite for skiers, yet its appeal stretches far beyond the slopes. Dramatic mountain backdrops frame rows of storybook chalets, while crisp air and an easy rhythm make lingering feel natural.
Poschiavo, Switzerland
For those craving calm over crowds, Poschiavo delivers it effortlessly. This Italian-speaking corner of Switzerland offers soaring mountain scenery with an easygoing village pace that instantly puts you at ease. Wander along the shores of Lago di Poschiavo or take in the stillness of Lago di Saoseo, and it doesn’t take long to see why this quietly beautiful valley stays with you long after you leave.
Prags, Italy
Cradled by the Dolomites, Prags, also known as Braies, in South Tyrol feels almost unreal. The luminous waters of Lago di Braies reflect jagged limestone peaks so perfectly, creating a picture-postcard effect that’s hard to forget. Hop into a classic wooden rowboat, pause by the famed boathouse, then wander into the vast Fanes-Sennes-Prags Nature Park.
Tromsø, Norway
Located well above the Arctic Circle, Tromsø offers dramatic landscapes with an easygoing spirit. In winter, the night sky often comes alive with shifting auroras, while the city charms with colourful wooden houses, cosy cafés, and a lively local rhythm, making it a great spot for a coolcation. Venture just beyond town to discover ice-shaped fjords, snow-dusted mountains, and memorable whale-watching experiences.
Vemdalen, Sweden
Vemdalen is where winter joy keeps things refreshingly simple. This laid-back Swedish mountain village invites you to spend your days gliding down snowy slopes, carving fresh tracks on a snowboard, cruising through white forests by snowmobile or doing absolutely nothing serious at all, including the perfect snow angel. It’s playful, outdoorsy, and blissfully uncrowded, making Vemdalen an easy win for anyone who loves winter without the fuss.
Yuzawa, Japan
If you’re after snow without the long journey, Yuzawa makes it easy. Hop on the Shinkansen from Tokyo and you’ll land in a mountain town known for welcoming ski resorts that suit first-timers and seasoned skiers alike. Gentle slopes, reliable snow, and a relaxed, family-friendly vibe make it an easy fit for all ages and abilities. Come for a quick day on the slopes or stretch it into a few days. It’s a coolcation that doesn’t ask for much planning.