As extreme heatwaves hit popular Mediterranean beach destinations, many travelers are seeking cooler alternatives for their summer holidays. But there's no need to cancel your beach plans just yet. Northern and Western Europe offer stunning beach destinations with sub-30°C temperatures, perfect for a relaxing and eco-friendly getaway. Here are some top picks for beach holidays that keep you cool and mindful of the environment.
Hike Dramatic Limestone Cliffs in Lagos, Portugal
The Algarve region in Portugal remains a favorite with temperatures ranging between 24 and 30°C. Lagos, with its walled old town, striking cliffs, and beautiful beaches, offers a perfect seaside retreat. For the active traveler, there’s surfing, mountain biking, and hiking along the Ponta da Piedade Trail, leading to snorkeling spots and secluded bays ideal for bird-watching.
Travel sustainably by taking a train from Lisbon to Lagos in under four hours, with a change in Albufeira.
Catch Surf and Tapas in San Sebastián, Spain
Northern Spain’s San Sebastián, escaping the excessive heat warnings of the south, boasts highs of 23 to 27°C. This Basque city offers fine white sands, a vibrant pintxos (tapas) scene, and top surf spots like Zarautz and Zurriola Beach.
Reachable by train from Madrid and Paris in around five-and-a-half hours, it’s a great choice for a cooler coastal escape.
Ride a Horse Along the Beach in Biarritz, France
Just an hour north of San Sebastián, Biarritz in France’s Basque Country offers temperatures between 23 and 29°C. This seaside town is known for its long sandy beaches, perfect for surfing or horse riding tours along the coast.
Indulge in fresh seafood, cheese, and charcuterie at Marché aux Halles de Biarritz after a day of adventure. Direct trains from Paris to Biarritz take just over four hours.
Bathe in a Geothermal Lido in Penzance, UK
Cornwall in the UK, with its famed surf spots and unspoilt coastlines, is an ideal summer destination. Penzance, in particular, offers highs of 18°C, but you can warm up in the 30°C+ waters of the Jubilee Pool, a geothermal Art Deco saltwater lido.
Hiking to St Michael's Mount in nearby Marazion adds to the charm. Take the eight-hour Night Riviera sleeper train from London to Penzance for a unique travel experience.
Explore Bogs and Pine Forests in Jurmala, Latvia
Latvia’s Jūrmala, with its 500 km coastline, offers a wide beach and temperatures of 23 to 29°C. Stay in the iconic Art Nouveau wooden seaside villas in Bulduri, some converted into charming hotels.
Kemeri National Park and Dzintari Forest Park provide nature-filled escapes with bog boardwalks and treetop viewing platforms. Jūrmala is just 35 minutes by train from Riga.
Source: Euronews
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