Cool Escapes!
Not a fan of the heat? Craving cooler temperatures and chilly getaways? You’re in the right place! This guide covers April, May, and June and the many adventures to be had. Whether you prefer snow-capped mountains or breezy coastal escapes, I’ve rounded up the best destinations to beat the heat!
April, May, and June offer some of the best weather for travel—think hot tubs in snowy surroundings, hot drinks around fire logs, and adventures that are bearable in the cold. So, pack your warmest clothes and get ready to explore the coolest destinations around the globe!
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APRIL
COLD & REFRESHING GETAWAYS
1.
FAROE ISLANDS
APRIL TEMPERATURE: 5 DEGREES
The Faroe Islands is the perfect breathtaking Nordic escape, known for its dramatic cliffs, rugged coastlines, and untouched natural beauty. Visiting in April offers a truly magical experience with crisp temperatures, fewer tourists, and moody, misty landscapes that charm the islands.
The Faroe Islands in April promise an unforgettable cold-weather adventure far from the crowds. Spring also brings thriving wildlife, including puffins and seabirds, returning to the nest. Add this European beauty to your destination for an unforgettable getaway in April!
Where’s Cold in April? The Faroe Islands. Sorvagsvatn Lake and Waterfall. Credit: Lukas (Adobe)
Highlights In Faroe Islands
Don’t Miss…
Places To Stay On The Faroe Islands
Torshavn. As the capital and largest city of the Faroe Islands, Torshavn provides a mix of historical charm and activity. Stay in the city’s heart to explore its colourful buildings, museums, and lively harbour with scenic views.
🩵 Recommends: The Hilton Garden Inn provides clean rooms, great service and beautiful views.
Klaksvik. Klaksvik is the second-largest town in the Faroe Islands and is known for its scenic setting, which is surrounded by mountains and fjords. Staying here provides a quieter atmosphere while offering easy access to natural attractions and a glimpse into local island life, but it is slightly harder to find hotels here.
🩵 Recommends: Hotel Runavik offers simplicity and convenience and is rated well by guests.
Gota. Situated on the island of Eysturoy, Gota is a charming village known for its annual festivals celebrating music and culture. Choosing accommodation in or near Gota allows you to experience the community’s warmth and nearby attractions like the iconic sea stacks, aka ‘The Giant and the Hag’.
🩵 Recommends: Visit Homes is a stunning beachfront property with beautiful rooms.
Who & What Are The Faroe Islands Best For?
The Faroe Islands in April are perfect for adventurous travellers, mum-and-daughters, nature lovers, and photographers who thrive in wild, moody landscapes without crowds. If you love off-the-beaten-path destinations with mystery, the Faroe Islands in April are calling your name!
2.
NEW ZEALAND (SOUTH ISLAND)
APRIL TEMPERATURE: 15 DEGREES
The South Island of New Zealand is all about epic mountains, crystal-clear lakes, and some of the best outdoor adventures, especially in April. The Southern Alps look unreal with all the golden leaves, and whether you’re into hiking or cruising the Milford Sound, it’s the perfect mix of cold weather and jaw-dropping scenery.
April can bring some rain to New Zealand’s South Island, especially in areas like Fiordland and the West Coast, where rainfall is more common. But don’t worry—rain or shine, it’s still an amazing destination!
So, if you’re into the cold but not freezing vibes and autumn colours, April’s the best time to go. Furthermore, what about a Working Holiday Visa in New Zealand so you can stay there all year long instead?
Where’s Cold April? The stunning Queenstown in New Zealand, Credit: Det-Anan Sunonethong (Adobe)
New Zealand (South) Highlights
Best Excursions!
Places To Stay In New Zealand (South)
Queenstown. Queenstown, the adventure capital, is a popular place to stay. It offers epic outdoor activities, vibrant nightlife, and stunning views of Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountains.
🩵 Recommends: Crowne Plaza Queenstown provides an upscale stay with unreal views.
Nelson. Nelson is a great location to stay. It is known for its art scene, is near Golden Bay, and has easy access to the beautiful Abel Tasman National Park, perfect for hiking and beach lovers.
🩵 Recommends: The Hotel Nelson is a great place to stay, with good rates, a delicious breakfast, and lots to do.
Christchurch. Christchurch is another popular city. It is a cool city with urban charm and nearby nature. It offers easy access to the Southern Alps and Akaroa’s French-inspired village.
🩵 Recommends: The Mayfair is a stunning stay, rated highly by guests, and close to the action.
Who & What Is New Zealand Best For?
New Zealand’s South Island in April is perfect for families, solo travellers, and adventure seekers who love cool, crisp weather and breathtaking autumn scenery. It’s the perfect time to soak up the peaceful landscapes, enjoy epic adventures, and cosy small towns without the summer crowds. So, will this April be filled with memories of New Zealand?
Travelling alone but feeling nervous? The How To Travel Solo Ebook has tips for planning safe, confident, and unforgettable adventures!
3.
FRANCE (FRENCH ALPS & NORMANDY)
APRIL TEMPERATURE: 11 DEGREES
April in France offers two incredible cold-weather escapes: the French Alps and Normandy. You’ll find late-season skiing, crisp mountain air, and stunning alpine villages in the Alps, perfect for adventure and relaxation.
Meanwhile, Normandy offers coastal charm with misty beaches, medieval towns, and historic sites like Mont Saint-Michel and the D-Day landing beaches, all without the crowds. Whether you are in France to ski or chill, April is the perfect month for a chilly break.
Where’s Cold April? Normandy in France. Credit: Dmitry Tonkopi (Adobe)
Highlights In The French Alps & Normandy
Don’t Miss…
Places To Stay In The French Alps & Normandy
Chamonix. Stay in Chamonix for stunning views of Mount Blanc and a lively ski scene. It’s an absolute paradise for those wanting to ski, hike, and climb mountains!
🩵 Recommends: Heliopic Hotel & Spa offers everything you need for a perfect stay in the French Alps.
Honfleur. The picturesque harbour town Honfleur is quite the view! Picture cobblestone streets, colourful houses, and fresh seafood, perfect for a romantic or relaxing getaway in Normandy.
🩵 Recommends: Le Manoir des Impressionistes is a gorgeous premium stay with plenty of character.
Annecy. Anncency is a fairytale lakeside town with charming canals, medieval streets, and mountain views, which is perfect for a relaxed alpine escape in the French Alps.
🩵 Recommends: Les Tresoms Lake & Spa Resort is unreal! It’s stunning and offers the ultimate luxury without the hefty price tag.
Who & What Are The French Alps & Normandy Best For?
The French Alps in April are perfect for skiers squeezing in late-season runs, hikers craving crisp mountain air, and anyone who loves cosy chalets with epic views. Meanwhile, Normandy is ideal for history lovers exploring D-Day beaches, foodies indulging in fresh seafood, and anyone who loves fewer crowds and that perfect chilly vibe in April!
MAY
ESCAPE THE HEAT, BRING THE COLD!
1.
GREENLAND
MAY TEMPERATURE: 0 DEGREES
If you’re chasing epic Arctic vibes, Greenland in May is next-level cool—literally! With cold temperatures, towering icebergs, and endless adventures, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the heat in a chilly destination.
Visiting in May brings fewer tourists, which means you get this wild, icy paradise (almost) all to yourself! It’s also prime time for whale watching, dog sledging, and hiking and has longer daylight hours to explore. Ready to swap beaches for ice caps and Arctic thrills?
Where’s Cold in May? Greenland! Credit: Lotharingia (Adobe)
Greenland’s Highlights
Places To Stay In Greenland
Nuuk. As Greenland’s capital and largest city, Nuuk is a popular, lively city with stunning natural surroundings overlooking the Nuuk Fjord. Stay in Nuuk to explore Greenland’s cultural hub, visit museums, and experience local cuisine.
🩵 Recommends: Hotel Hans Egede is a 4-star, more friendly choice for staying, conveniently located by everything.
Ilulissat. Located on the west coast of Greenland, Ilulissat is renowned for its proximity to the Ilulissat Icefjord, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town is known for its dog sledging, northern light viewing opportunities, icebergs, and Arctic landscape.
🩵 Recommends: Hotel Arctic is quirky and offers scenic views of Greenland.
Kangerlussuaq. Situated in the central part of Greenland, Kangerlussuaq is a vital transportation hub often used as a gateway for those exploring the Greenland Ice Sheet. Stay in Kangerlussuaq for its accessibility to the wilderness, wildlife, and the Russell Glacier.
🩵 Recommends: Old Camp offers small cabin-type accommodation, which is budget-friendly and great for a short stay.
Who & What Is Greenland Best For?
Greenland in May is perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone craving a unique Arctic escape. Whether you’re into glaciers, whale watching, hiking under the Midnight Sun, or just soaking up epic icy landscapes, this is the ultimate cool-weather getaway with fewer tourists and endless adventure!
2.
GERMANY (BAVARIAN ALPS & BLACK FOREST)
MAY TEMPERATURE: 17 DEGREES
If you love chilly mountain vibes, fairy-tale villages, and epic nature, May is the perfect time to visit Germany’s Bavarian Alps and Black Forest! Think misty forests, medieval castles, and hot chocolate in cosy alpine towns.
Why visit during May? Well, you can still see snow-capped peaks while enjoying milder temperatures—perfect for exploring castles, lakes, and scenic alpine roads without freezing or sweating! With cool temps, fewer crowds, and breathtaking landscapes, Germany is the magical, off-season destination you won’t forget.
Where’s Cold May? St. Coloman Church in Bavaria, Germany. Credit Kavita (Adobe)
Highlights In Germany (Bavarian Alps & Black Forest)
Don’t Miss…
Places To Stay In Germany (Bavarian Alps & Black Forest)
Garmisch-Partenkirchen (Bavarian Alps). Stay in the charming alpine town of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. It is perfect for skiing, hiking, and exploring Zugspitze, Germany’s highest peak.
🩵 Recommends: HYPERION Hotel Garmisch is a 5-star stay with stunning views and clean rooms.
Triberg (Black Forest). If you’re looking for a cosy village to stay in, Triberg has some places with stunning waterfalls and beautiful forest trails—the wildlife will wake you!
🩵 Recommends: Hotel Zum Ochsen offers a perfect stay with spa access and only a 10-minute drive from Triberg.
Fussen (Bavarian Alps). Fussen is the ideal place to stay if you seek adventure. Its surroundings include cobblestone streets, lakes, and breathtaking mountain views.
🩵 Recommends: Hotel Hirsh is a stunning 4-star hotel with boutique-styled rooms and great room rates.
Who & What Are The Bavarian Alps & Black Forest Best For?
May in Germany’s Bavarian Alps and Black Forest is all about cool mountain air and lush green landscapes without the tourist crowds. It’s the perfect time for hikers, road-trippers, and castle lovers to explore at their own pace—whether it’s waterfalls or epic alpine views.
If you’re into adventure, history, or just a good dose of nature in the chilly season of May, this is your sign to go, go, go!
3.
IRELAND
MAY TEMPERATURE: 13 DEGREES
Welcome to Ireland during May, when the weather is cold but not freezing, wildflowers bloom, landscapes are vibrant green, and the days are longer. It’s the perfect time for road-tripping the Wild Atlantic Way, hiking epic cliffs, and chilling in cosy pubs in Dublin.
Ireland has fewer tourists during May than in the summer, making it a place to explore without the crowds. Plus, you’ll catch some fabulous festivals and local vibes without the summer rush!
Where’s Cold May? The Four Courts in Dublin City, Ireland. Credit: David Soanes (Adobe)
Irelands Highlights
More Activities
– Dublin
Places To Stay In Ireland
Dublin. The capital city of Ireland, Dublin, is a popular area to stay in as it’s fun-packed with activities, has a great deal of history, pubs, and city vibes, and is also a great base for getting around to other key locations in Ireland.
🩵 Recommends: The Davenport Hotel is a stylish stay and is close to many of the top attractions.
Galway. Stay in Gallway for a lively, artsy city vibe on the Wild Atlantic Way. This location is another popular place to stay. It is known for its live music, colourful streets, and day trips to the Cliffs of Moher or Connemara.
🩵 Recommends: Oranhill Lodge is a highly rated B&B offering wallet-friendly room rates.
Killarney. Killarney is the perfect area to stay if you’re after a more laid-back vibe. It’s the gateway to the Ring of Kerry, with lush national parks, lakes, and castles, perfect for nature lovers and road trippers.
🩵 Recommends: Muckross Park Hotel & Spa is a 5-star stay with gorgeous luxury rooms and service.
Hotel Highlight
Click the image to expand
Keavan’s Port Hotel Dublin was a cool place to stay. It’s my highlight because I loved its location—plus, it is situated in/on top of a Wetherspoons—if you know, you know! It has all the vibes and is perfect for a weekend getaway.
Who & What Is Ireland Best For?
Ireland is the perfect destination for a chilly getaway in May, as it brings dramatic cliffs, historic castles, and cosy pub vibes all throughout the month. If you’re a solo traveller, Ireland might just be the spot – it’s the ideal time for a chilled-out yet epic Irish escape.
JUNE
NOT HOT, BUT NOT FREEZING
1.
CANADA (ROCKIES)
JUNE TEMPERATURE: 15 DEGREES
If you’re after epic mountain views, cool but not cold temperatures, and fewer crowds, June is the perfect time to hit the Canadian Rockies! It’s a place for adventure, especially before the summer rush, if you want to explore iconic spots like Banff and Jaspall.
So, why is June the perfect month to visit the Rockies, Canada? It’s a month where the snow is still clinging to the peaks for insane views, the lakes are thawing into that unreal turquoise, wildlife is active, and hiking trails are opening up. Sounds pretty perfect, right?
Where’s Cold June? The Icefields Parkway, Banff National Park in Canada. Credit: Craig Zerbe (Adobe)
Highlights In Canada
Don’t Miss…
Places To Stay In Canada (Rockies)
Banff. Located within Banff National Park, Banff Town is a popular area to base yourself in, with plenty of charming hotels and mountain lodges. You’ll find a vibrant atmosphere, stunning views of the surrounding peaks, and the nearby Lake Louise in Banff.
🩵 Recommends: Sunshine Mountain Lodge offers good vibes, food, and room rates.
Jasper. Located further north, Jasper is another gem within the national park system. This peaceful town, surrounded by pristine wilderness, provides a more tranquil experience. Jasper’s accommodations include hotels, cabins, and lodges, offering a quiet retreat after a day of adventures.
🩵 Recommends: Pine Bungalows provide self-contained cabins with stunning views.
Canmore. Situated just outside Banff National Park, Canmore offers a quieter alternative with a local charm. Canmore is an excellent base for exploring the nearby Three Sisters Mountains and Kananaskis Country.
🩵 Recommends: Solara Resorts is a cosy 4-star stay with a wellness centre only 10 minutes from the National Park.
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Who & What Are The Canadian Rockies Best For?
The Canadian Rockies are best for those who love nature and adventure – and want to escape the noise. If you love photography, photographers, this one is for you! Remember, you’ll still have to wrap up in June, but at least it’s chilly, not freezing! So, is it time for the Rockies?
2.
ARGENTINA
JUNE TEMPERATURE: 14 DEGREES
June is the perfect time to visit Argentina for those who love cool, crisp air, as it’s the start of winter in the southern hemisphere. From the snowy peaks of Patagonia to the mild temperatures in Buenos Aires, June offers the best of both adventure and city vibes.
Plus, you’ll avoid Argentina during the high season crowds, making it easier to enjoy popular spots like Iguazu Falls more relaxedly, whether hiking or chilling. June delivers an epic, cool-weather escape in Argentina, so what are you waiting for?
Where’s Hot June? Ski resort in Argentina. Credit: Lcrrbeirro@gmail (Adobe)
Argentina’s Highlights
Don’t Miss…
Places To Stay In Argentina
Buenos Aires. Staying in Buenos Aires offers a bustling city with vibrant neighbourhoods, stunning architecture, and amazing food—perfect for culture lovers and foodies. It’s also a good place to explore attractions.
🩵 Recommends: Miravida Soho House & Wine Bar offers a boutique stay and is rated highly among guests.
Mendoza. Wine enthusiasts should stay in the vineyard-filled region of Mendoza and enjoy the stunning Andean mountain backdrop. It offers a quieter alternative to Buenos Aires.
🩵 Recommends: Sheraton Mendoza Hotel provides a 5-star stay and has lots to do around the hotel.
Ushuaia. The southernmost city in the world, Ushuaia is ideal for exploring Patagonia Tierra del Fuego and enjoying breathtaking mountain and ocean views.
🩵 Recommends: Los Acebos Ushuaia Hotel offers clean rooms and stunning surroundings.
Travelling solo but anxious about it? The Female Solo Travel Guide covers everything you need to know about solo trips and more!
Who & What Is Argentina Best For?
Argentina in June is perfect for groups of friends, mum-and-daughters, and anyone who enjoys winter sports and craves cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. It offers a little something for everyone, making it a great destination to escape the warmth to somewhere beautiful and cooler.
3.
LATVIA
JUNE TEMPERATURE: 17 DEGREES
Latvia in June is a hidden gem for those who love cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Explore the charming streets of Riga, wander through lush forests, or relax along the Baltic coastline—all without the summer heat!
June’s long daylight hours make it perfect for hiking, exploring medieval castles, and enjoying Latvia’s unique culture. Whether you’re into nature or history or just want a peaceful getaway, Latvia in June is the perfect cool-weather escape!
Where’s Cold June? Kuldiga in Latvia. Credit: Sergei_fish13 (Adobe)
Highlights In Latvia
Best Excursions!
– Riga
– Other Cities
Places To Stay In Latvia
Riga. The capital city, Riga, is perfect for history lovers, foodies, and nightlife seekers, with its stunning Old Town, Central Market, and vibrant bars.
🩵Recommends: Grand Poet Hotel By Semarah offers a romantic setting with boujee rooms.
Jurmala. The seaside resort town, Jurmala, offers sandy beaches, spa hotels, and a relaxed vibe—great for a chilled-out, cooler escape.
🩵 Recommends: Lielupe By Semarah Hotel provides a gorgeous stay with spa services at a budget-friendly room rate.
Sigulda. Known as ‘Latvia’s Switzerland’, Sigulda is the perfect location for nature lovers, with castles, hiking trails, and adventure sports in Gauja National Park.
🩵 Recommends: Spa Hotel Ezeri is a cool stay with amenities to keep you entertained.
Hotel Highlight
Click the image to expand
Wellton Riga Spa & Hotel in Riga was a great stay. It’s cool, and the room’s extending window balcony overlooks the city. I loved the spa services and the friendly staff; the location was pretty convenient for getting around!
Who & What Is Latvia Best For?
Latvia is a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers, solo travellers and foodies looking for a cool, crowd-free escape. June is the ideal time to visit—cool temperatures and a lively atmosphere with festivals, outdoor adventures, and fresh seasonal food. Whether exploring Riga’s medieval Old Town or relaxing on the Baltic coast, there’s something for everyone.
That’s A Wrap!
So there you have it! Cooler-cold getaways in April, May, or June. These exciting destinations are perfect for a chilly getaway. So where will you go?
Fancy a warmer destination instead? Check out Hot Countries To Visit In April, May & June
I also have more ‘Where’s Cold’ holiday recommendations if you prefer to go later in the year:
