Why winter destinations make perfect summer getaways.

As summer temperatures soar in central and southern Europe, holidaymakers are increasingly turning to traditionally winter resorts for their summer holidays.

Many of the regions better known for their snowy slopes offer a refreshing alternative to the scorching heat of those popular Mediterranean beach holidays.

Instead of flopping around on a sun lounger, stuffing your face with ice cream, and quaffing so many pina coladas you’re starting to look like a pineapple, it’s definitely worth considering a winter destination. Enjoy less intense climates, stunning landscapes, and a huge choice of exciting cultural experiences.

The vision…

Last December, I visited the Edelweiss Hotel in Grossarl, Austria. It was winter, with skiers everywhere and the whole place felt extremely beautiful in that sparkly Christmas card kind of way. Of course, there was no denying it was beautiful. But I couldn’t help but wonder what the place would be like in the summer.

I imagined being surrounded by lush green valleys (instead of white slopes), sipping chilled wine on the terrace, soaking up the sun but breathing in the crisp clean alpine air. Hikes and long strolls would be easier without the snow. And the summer temperatures would be far more bearable.

Summer in the Austrian Alps?

I asked hotel staff about summer at the hotel. They confirmed that it was truly stunning, and increasingly busy mid-year. Warmer too, of course, with temperatures typically in the high 20s to low 30s. More manageable than the oppressive 40 degrees increasingly happening in many parts of southern Europe.

Their comments highlighted a growing trend: winter destinations are becoming sought-after summer retreats.

The Austrian Alps, for example, offer a perfect summer escape with crystal-clear lakes, flower-strewn meadows and hiking trails that provide a fun alternative to fighting your way through crowded coastal resorts. Beyond nature, the area is culturally rich too, from Salzburg’s Mozart heritage to Vienna’s historic palaces. Summer in the Alps also brings practical advantages; fewer tourists, better travel deals, and a wider range of activities.

An Austrian haven

At the Edelweiss Hotel, a four-star superior retreat in Grossarl Valley, it’s possible to experience this transformation firsthand. By day, you can hike trails scented with pine and wildflowers in the Hohe Tauern National Park, followed by schnitzel and apple strudel at alpine restaurants.

Featuring wooden beams and a valley-view balcony, my room felt like a cosy sanctuary in winter, but with the balcony doors flung open, it’s still cool and airy, but nicely warm too. The hotel’s wellness area, open all year round, featuring a panoramic sauna and infinity pool, offering total relaxation with views of rolling meadows. Dedicated summer programmes, including e-bike rentals and farmers’ market visits, add to the appeal, making the Edelweiss a perfect introduction to Austria’s summer charm.

Other summer wonderlands

This ‘summer hols in winter resorts’ trend extends far beyond Austria however. With each summer getting hotter and the winters milder, travellers are keener than ever to seek out new options and explore destinations they may not have considered before.

A few places include Åre in Sweden, Chamonix in France, and Banff in Canada offer cool summer climates. They’re typically 20–25°c and as well as this more temperate weather, also offer healthy experiences, such as hiking, biking and cultural experiences. These destinations cater to adventurers and relaxaholics alike, with activities ranging from lake-kayaking to checking out historic towns and local music festivals.

Top summer destinations in winter havens

1. Grossarl, Austria (Hotel Edelweiss). Hike or bike in the Hohe Tauern National Park, relax in the spa, or enjoy cultural experiences like farmers’ markets. The hotel’s pools and cozy alpine charm make it a summer standout.
2. Åre, Sweden. Explore lush trails, paddle Åresjön Lake, or immerse in Sami culture. Mild temperatures and food festivals create a vibrant summer scene.
3. Chamonix, France. Hike the Tour du Mont Blanc or paraglide under Mont Blanc. Cool weather and lively markets make it a refreshing escape. Home | Chamonix
4. Banff, Canada. Kayak on Lake Louise, spot wildlife or ride the Banff Gondola. Summer arts festivals add cultural depth. Banff & Lake Louise Tourism | Official Destination Website
5. Queenstown, New Zealand. Enjoy bungee jumping, lake cruises or winery tours in mild summer weather (December–February). Queenstown New Zealand | Official Tourism Website
6. Hakuba, Japan. Hike the Northern Alps, relax in hot springs, or attend summer festivals, all in a cool 25°C climate.
7. Bariloche, Argentina. Kayak Nahuel Huapi Lake or hike the Andes in summer (December–February) with craft breweries adding local flavour.
8. Ruka, Finland. Hike Oulanka National Park or canoe under the midnight sun. Sami cultural events enhance the cool summer vibe.
9. Zermatt, Switzerland. Trek the Five Lakes Walk with Matterhorn views or bike alpine trails. The car-free village’s summer festivals add charm.
10. Valdres, Norway. Hike the Besseggen Ridge or fish in clear lakes. Folk music festivals and farm-to-table dining highlight summer’s appeal.

These former winter-only destinations are finally becoming appreciated, and offer an enjoyable and fascinating alternative to the usual overheated hotspots. With cooler climates, diverse activities, and authentic cultural experiences, they’re redefining summer travel for those seeking fitness, adventure, tranquillity – but without getting sunstroke and coming home heavier than when you left!

So lose the flip-flops, pull on your hiking boots, and discover why these traditionally snowy havens shine beautifully bright in the summer months