As summer temperatures frequently exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit in Mediterranean hubs like France, Spain, and Italy, travelers are increasingly shifting toward “coolcationing” in Scandinavia. According to reports from tour operators including Backroads, MT Sobek, and Wilderness Travel, northern destinations such as Sweden, Norway, and Denmark offer more temperate climates for active adventure travel, with space currently available for summer bookings.
Why is the “Coolcation” Trend Growing?
The rise of the coolcation—a vacation strategy centered on avoiding extreme heat—is driven by the record-breaking heatwaves currently impacting Southern Europe. While traditional hotspots struggle with high temperatures, Nordic regions provide a climate better suited for physical activity. According to data from travel providers, the movement prioritizes outdoor exploration in regions where average summer temperatures remain comfortable for cycling, hiking, and kayaking.
The Sarek Wildlife Expedition in Sweden takes place in Laponia, a UNESCO World Heritage site that stands as the world’s largest wilderness area still inhabited by the reindeer-herding Sami people.
What Are the Top Nordic Cycling and Hiking Options?
Travelers seeking active summer vacations have several distinct options ranging from moderate bike tours to high-intensity wilderness expeditions. The following trips represent the current market offerings for Nordic adventure travel:
- Sweden to Denmark Bike Tour (Backroads): A six-day, moderate-intensity trip covering the Swedish Riviera and the Øresund region. Pricing starts at $5,999 per person.
- Norway Mountains & Fjords Multi-Adventure (MT Sobek): A nine-day moderate trip involving hiking, sea kayaking, and train travel. Priced at $6,895 per person.
- Hiking in Norway’s Fjord Country (Wilderness Travel): An 11-day moderate excursion focusing on the Sognefjord and Hardangerfjord regions. Cost is $9,095 per person.
- Sarek Wildlife Expedition (Wild Sweden): An eight-day “hard” rated expedition focused on moose tracking in Lapland. Priced at approximately $3,216 (30,900 SEK).
- Norwegian Fjords Kayaking & Hiking (Norway Adventures): A five-day moderate trip limited to groups of 10. Priced at approximately $2,208 (21,400 NOK).
How Do These Trips Compare in Intensity?
Choosing the right tour depends on the traveler’s physical preparedness and desired level of comfort. The trips vary significantly in their requirements:
| Trip | Difficulty | Primary Activity |
|---|---|---|
| Backroads Bike Tour | Levels 1-2 | Cycling |
| Sarek Expedition | Hard | Tracking/Hiking |
| Wilderness Travel Fjord Hiking | Level 3 | Hiking/Boat |
If you choose the Sarek Wildlife Expedition, ensure you are prepared to carry a backpack weighing up to 40 pounds, as this is a requirement for the multi-day wilderness trek.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a coolcation?
A coolcation is a travel trend where tourists choose destinations with cooler climates to avoid the extreme heatwaves increasingly common in Southern Europe during the summer months.
Are these trips suitable for beginners?
Most tours listed, such as the Backroads bike tour, offer moderate (Level 1-2) intensity options. However, expeditions like the Sarek Wildlife trip require experienced hikers due to the “hard” rating and physical load requirements.
What is included in the price of these tours?
Pricing typically includes accommodation, guided activities, and some meals. For instance, the Wilderness Travel trip includes stays in waterside hotels, while the Sarek expedition includes a mix of hotel and tent lodging.
Have you considered trading the Mediterranean for the Nordic wilderness? Share your thoughts in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more seasonal travel updates.