Getting up and close to nature is one of the best ways to cool off anytime. Be it taking some time off work or just your pure love of nature, these breathtaking European destinations with magnificent mountains, placid lakes and jaw-dropping natural beauty offer so much more than just relaxing.
So, let’s together discover these amazing cool-off destinations!
The world-famous Mont Blanc massif in Chamonix
First up on the list is undoubtedly the majestic Mont Blanc. In addition to being a popular winter destination, Chamonix has also earned a good reputation among those who like to cool off the summer heat here.
Attracting tons of nature lovers and adventure seekers, Mont Blanc’s scenic hiking trails, sky-high peaks, refreshing atmosphere and magical alpine lakes is all that’s needed to unwind here. In fact, hiking, mountaineering, biking and 8000 km of signed footpaths have made this cross-country massif a paradise for travellers for most part of the year.
Perched on altitudes as high as 1800 metres, golfing in Mont Blanc is another cherished summer activity accompanied by 180-degrees mountain views all around. So, if you want to try your hand at golf in a captivating location, then you can make your way to the equipped courses of Chamonix, Mont d’Arbois in Megève, or Golf Les Arcs Paradiski.
Trekking with magnificent Mont Blanc views
Duty-free and Slow Tourism in Livigno
Next up on the list is Livigno, a duty-free haven for travellers and a peaceful holiday destination to cool off with family and friends.
Slow tourism, immersive ecological activities, fun hikes through hills as well as kayaking and canoeing in deep blue lakes create the perfect summertime experience. Family holidays are particularly memorable in Livigno with its diverse activities consisting of experiencing farm life, taking care of livestock, milking cattle in Alpine pastures, recreational hiking and picnicking in unspoilt natural beauty.
In 2021, this Italian-Alpine destination will also play host to an interesting contest inspired by the Swiss practice of Plogging, wherein travellers would be welcomed to take care of the surrounding ecology by picking up waste as they trek enveloped in nature. Active till late September, this contest also has a chance for you to win some fantastic prizes!
Children engaging in Plogging
Water Sports, shopping, gelatos and local aperitifs in Riva del Garda
The beautiful mountain-land-lake setting of Riva Del Garda makes it a vibrant summertime destination, and with the tons of activities that it offers to unwind and enjoy here, it is no wonder that this harbour town is a tourist hotspot.
From SUPPing, wakeboarding and sailing on catamarans to hiking through the picturesque Tempesta-Busatta route or sometimes, just relaxing on the terrace of a cosy cafe and enjoying aperitifs with delicious local mixes made of elderflower and gourmet prosecco, this lovely town really has everything to makes it an ideal cool-off getaway.
In fact, a perfect day here in summers consists of checking out its medieval architecture, climbing up the historic stone tower Torre Apponale, some end-of-season shopping accompanied by delicious, creamy gelatos, strolling through the lakeside promenade and grabbing a bite in one of the many sumptuous restaurants here.
Torre Apponale in the center of Riva del Garda
A taste of Switzerland’s beauty: La Tzoumaz
In La Tzoumaz, activities like thematic trails, e-biking, family walks and hiking through its varied landscape, including even forests, are perfect to completely let go and feel one with nature.
Moreover, with concepts like Espace Nature, you can feel the rejuvenating power of Switzerland's breathtaking nature and fully recharge your well-being here. Suitable for all ages, in Espace Nature travellers will find river obstacles, waterfalls, challenging but rewarding walks along the famous Bisse de Saxon channel, all-inclusive sensory trails with wheelchair access and forest houses.
Though small, this Swiss destination is a little slice of heaven overlooking the breathtaking Rhone valley and is excellent for a short trip with families and children!
Val d’Aran, the only Catalonian region in the Pyrenees!
While its unending sceneries are enough to make you forget about everything else in the world, with the end of summer close at hand, there is no better place to refresh yourself than in the Pyrenees.
Apart from offering high adrenaline activities like rock climbing in the amazing national park Còlomers, mountain biking along 25 different marked routes and fishing in serene locations, this valley also offers the “The Month of Well-being in the Val d’Aran” programme. Now in its second year, the participants of this programme come back feeling completely renewed.
This programme of pure well-being is held amidst green valleys, crystalline lakes and countless floral species. Scheduled to go on throughout the month of September, it consists of mindful and relaxing activities ranging from yoga, meditation, healthy cooking, walks through nature, tai chi and more!
Circ de Còlomers, Vielha (Val d’Aran)
So, have you decided which destination is your next cool-off place?
Have a look at our diverse range of holiday homes in Mont Blanc, Riva Del Garda, Livigno, La Tzoumaz and Pyrenees areas!