Travel Destinations With Scenic Landscapes

2025 is redefining the way people travel. Instead of chasing the hottest beach destinations or packed summer resorts, more travelers are choosing what has come to be known as coolcations 2025—scenic, temperate destinations where landscapes and culture meet comfort. This isn’t just about escaping rising global temperatures; it’s also about finding meaningful, less crowded travel experiences where natural beauty plays the starring role.

If you’ve ever longed for fresh air, panoramic mountain views, coastal walks, or villages rich with history, you’re already part of the coolcation movement.

Why “Coolcations 2025” Are Taking Off

Climate Wake-Up Call

With summer temperatures in parts of Europe regularly surpassing 40°C, travelers are increasingly choosing cooler destinations. Instead of southern Spain or Greece in peak summer, northern landscapes like Scotland or the Nordic countries are drawing attention. Scenic escapes that offer crisp air and natural shade are being prioritized over blistering city breaks.

Data-Backed Demand

Travel data shows flight searches to cooler northern destinations such as Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness rising by more than 40%. This makes coolcations 2025 more than just a passing trend—it’s a shift driven by real-world climate conditions and traveler needs.

Scenic Beauty with Depth

Research shows that 60% of travelers now prioritize natural beauty as a deciding factor in where they go. But there’s a growing emphasis on the stories behind those landscapes—heritage, cultural identity, and ecological preservation are just as important as the views themselves.

Top Scenic Coolcations for 2025

1. Scotland: Highlands and History

Scotland is one of the most talked-about coolcation destinations of 2025. The Highlands, dotted with misty peaks, shimmering lochs, and medieval castles, provide a landscape that feels both cinematic and calming. Towns like Inverness, Aberdeen, and Oban offer a perfect balance of history, scenic beauty, and cultural experiences.

Travelers can enjoy hiking in Cairngorms National Park, visiting whisky distilleries, or taking boat tours on Loch Ness—all without the oppressive summer heat.

2. Hidden Gems in Japan and China

More travelers are moving beyond Tokyo or Beijing and instead exploring smaller, scenic regions. In Japan, towns like Kanazawa and Takayama blend traditional charm with natural backdrops. Nagano offers alpine beauty with hot springs and hiking trails.

In China, Zhangjiajie—famous for its towering sandstone pillars—and Yangshuo, with its dramatic karst mountains, are attracting those seeking landscapes that feel otherworldly yet accessible. These destinations deliver cooler climates and cultural depth without overwhelming crowds.

3. Europe’s Detour Destinations

Europe has long been the top choice for summer travel, but instead of crowded hotspots like Rome or Paris, travelers in 2025 are shifting to smaller heritage towns that combine history with serene scenery.

• Český Krumlov, Czech Republic – A fairy-tale town along the Vltava River, complete with a castle and winding medieval streets.
• Bolgheri, Italy – Famous for vineyards, cypress-lined roads, and Tuscan charm.
• Gjirokastër, Albania – A UNESCO site with Ottoman architecture set against mountain landscapes.
• Lavenham, England – A medieval wool town where historic timber-framed houses sit in rolling countryside.

These locations offer cultural richness and visual beauty while staying cooler and less tourist-heavy.

4. Northumberland Coast, UK

The Northumberland coastline has become a trending destination thanks to its wild beaches and historic ruins. Embleton Bay, with sweeping views of Dunstanburgh Castle, is a prime example of how dramatic landscapes meet tranquility. Unlike southern European beaches, Northumberland offers fresh breezes, rugged walking paths, and plenty of space for reflection.

5. Sri Lanka’s South Coast

While many still flock to Bali, Sri Lanka’s southern shoreline is increasingly seen as a stylish alternative. With colonial towns like Galle, palm-fringed beaches, and scenic train rides through tea country, it combines coastal beauty with cultural immersion. Cooler evenings and a more relaxed pace make it ideal for those seeking both comfort and authenticity.

6. Digital Detox Retreats

One of the strongest travel themes for 2025 is the growing demand for digital detox. Travelers want to step away from screens and reconnect with nature. Scenic destinations are at the center of this trend.

Options include:

• Tree-top cabins in Norway surrounded by pine forests.
• Eco-resorts in the Azores where volcanic cliffs meet the sea.
• Countryside hideaways in Ireland and Sicily designed for slow living.

These retreats allow travelers to recharge in landscapes that are as peaceful as they are visually stunning.

---

How to Plan Your Coolcation in 2025

1. Pick Temperate Terrain

Look for destinations known for cooler climates—northern latitudes, higher altitudes, or coastal areas with breezes. Mountains, forests, and rural towns usually make excellent coolcation choices.

2. Go Beyond the Mainstream

Select “detour destinations” that are less visited. Not only do you avoid crowds, but you also experience more authentic local culture and scenery.

3. Seek Meaningful Landscapes

A coolcation isn’t just about cooler weather—it’s also about depth. Prioritize places where the scenery tells a story, whether it’s tied to folklore, local heritage, or conservation efforts.

4. Book Smart

Since interest in coolcations is growing rapidly, book accommodations early. Consider boutique hotels, eco-lodges, or homestays that enhance the cultural and natural experience.

5. Pack Wisely

Unlike tropical vacations, coolcations often require versatile clothing. Pack layers, waterproof jackets, sturdy walking shoes, and gear suited for hiking or exploring rural towns.

6. Balance Connectivity

Part of the coolcation experience is slowing down. Take photos, but don’t feel pressure to share every moment online. Disconnecting helps you connect more deeply with the landscapes around you.

Travel Trends That Define Coolcations

Trend	Why It Matters in 2025
Coolcations 2025	Responds directly to climate change and rising heatwaves.
Detour Destinations	Offers authentic travel while easing overcrowding.
Digital Detox Retreats	Combines scenic travel with wellness and mindfulness.
Slow & Experiential Travel	Prioritizes depth and connection over fast itineraries.

These themes show how travelers are rethinking their relationship with landscapes and choosing meaningful, sustainable, and scenic escapes.

Final Thoughts

“Coolcations 2025” represent more than just a trend—they signal a cultural shift in the way people approach travel. Travelers are prioritizing scenic landscapes, cooler climates, and destinations that offer peace, heritage, and authenticity. Whether it’s the Scottish Highlands, rural Japan, hidden European towns, or digital detox retreats, the best coolcation is one that feels both refreshing and meaningful.

For those planning travel in 2025, remember: the landscape is no longer just a backdrop—it’s the experience itself.

References

• Travel and Tourism Research Association. (2024, October 10). Travel trends 2025: What destinations need to prioritize now. Available at: https://ttra.com (Accessed: 18 August 2025).
• News.com.au. (2024, December 5). Aussies venture beyond the hotspots in 2025 to hidden gems in China and Japan. Available at: https://www.news.com.au (Accessed: 18 August 2025).
• WhoWhatWear. (2024, November 18). Sri Lanka’s South Coast is the stylish new travel hotspot. Available at: https://www.whowhatwear.com (Accessed: 18 August 2025).