Be cool, get high

Sunshine is an essential ingredient for a successful summer holiday - but there are limits.

- BY SARAH MARSHALL

Over the past few years, temperatures have been steadily rising to unbearable levels making many traditional beach destinations no-go zones during July and August.

Summer 2024 was the hottest on record for Europe at 1.54°C above the 1991-2020 average. Already this year, Spain and Portugal have recorded record breaking highs of 46°C for June.

So for those who would prefer not to burn, finding an alternative holiday option is a priority.

According to a recent report from the European Travel Commission, holidaymakers are now seeking milder destinations and Europe's mountains are an obvious choice.

Heidi is one of several ski firms now offering higher altitude summer breaks at 20 resorts across Austria, Slovenia, Poland, Italy and France. Co-founder Marcus Blunt said: "We genuinely believe people are happier and healthier from spending time in the mountains, come winter or summer.

"While mountain resorts have cooler temperatures than the most popular hot spots in the Med, they still offer plenty of summer sunshine and chances to swim."

Here are a few of the refreshing above-sea-level breaks...

Lake Bohinj, Slovenia

Average summer temperature: 25°C