Parts of the UK may be in the midst of a heatwave, but that’s not stopped a surge in the number of people looking to escape to cooler climates this summer.

Demand for so-called ‘coolcations’ is skyrocketing, with more people than ever looking to swap the sweltering summer holiday for more temperate climates.

With global travel magazine Time Out naming Scotland as the world’s number two coolcation destination, leading hotel group Crerar Hotels has revealed a list of the best places to visit for those travelling north of the border looking to make the most of its cooler climes.

Niall O’Shaughnessy, General Manager at Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa, said: “We never thought we’d see the day when our cooler climate would be one of the biggest draws for holidaymakers, but here we are.

Nairn is one of Scotland’s driest and sunniest towns, but even in summer, average highs only hover around 18°C.

placeholder image — Nairn is one of Scotland’s driest and sunniest towns, but even in summer, average highs only hover around 18°C.

“It’s fantastic to see that more and more people are realising that you don’t need blistering heat to have an incredible summer break.

“Whether it’s beach walks along our incredible coastlines, wildlife spotting on a rural island or soaking up some of Scotland’s incredible scenery, there is so much to see and do here, whatever the weather.”

The Best Places for a Coolcation Trip in Scotland this Summer

Nairn, Highlands

Ballater in Aberdeenshire enjoys cool, fresh air with average summer highs of just 16°C.

Located on the Moray Firth, Nairn is one of Scotland’s driest and sunniest towns, but even in summer, average highs only hover around 18°C, making it ideal for those looking to escape soaring temperatures elsewhere.

The town’s long, sandy beaches offer a quiet alternative to busier coastal resorts, meaning visitors can enjoy seaside walks without the blistering heat, while still catching the chance to spot dolphins and other sea life along the coastline.

For those looking to enjoy the seaside without the blistering heat, Golf View Hotel & Spa is nestled right on the coastline. The hotel is home to the aptly named, award-winning Coast Spa, that offers stunning views out over the Moray Firth to the Black Isle and beyond.

Dunkeld, Perthshire

Surrounded by forest and sitting along the River Tay, Dunkeld benefits from a sheltered Highland setting and summer temperatures that typically peak around 18°C.

The town is well suited to those who enjoy heritage and the outdoors, with plenty of walking and cycling trails around The Hermitage, as well as the nearby Loch of the Lowes for wildlife spotting and educational activities.

Dunkeld House Hotel is the ultimate activity hub for families visiting the area this summer. With everything from county clays shooting, to off road Land Rover driving experiences and even white water rafting at nearby Nae Limits, it’s the ideal place to base yourself for an action-packed trip.

Isle of Mull, Inner Hebrides

The Isle of Mull offers a reliably cool summer climate, with temperatures averaging 16°C in July and August.

A popular choice for those seeking fresh air, open space and fewer crowds, the island’s capital Tobermory offers a colourful backdrop to those looking for a fun trip away. The island is brimming with activities too, with puffin-spotting boat trips to nearby Staffa and Lunga, as well as plenty of beaches, wildlife tours and castles and ruins to explore.

Isle of Mull Hotel & Spa is perfectly positioned just five minutes from Craignure Ferry Terminal, making it the ideal place for coolcation seekers to base themselves while exploring the island.

As well as a range of rooms and suites inspired by the landscape of Mull, the hotel is also home to the unique Wilderness Deck - a private spa retreat for visitors to take in the island in their own sanctuary.

Inveraray, Argyll and Bute

Located on the banks of the stunning Loch Fyne, Inveraray rarely sees temperatures rise above 17°C, even in peak summer.

The town is known for its Georgian architecture and accessible visitor attractions, including the world-renowned Inveraray Jail and breathtaking Inveraray Castle and gardens. The loch

itself offers plenty of boat trips, kayaking and fishing opportunities, without the heat associated with more southerly destinations.

For those planning on exploring this cooler climate with a four-legged friend, the dog-friendly Loch Fyne Hotel & Spa is the perfect place to stay. This luxury hotel is situated right on the banks of the loch and is the ideal haven for pampered pooches and their pawrents alike, with stand-out spa facilities and the award-winning Cladach Mor restaurant that champions local produce.

Pitlochry, Perthshire

A classic Highland escape, Pitlochry averages a comfortable 17°C during summer, making it one of Scotland’s best inland destinations for a cool break.

It’s well connected but still feels remote, with Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Ben Vrackie and plenty of whisky distilleries right on your doorstep.

For the ultimate taste of luxury, those visiting this historic gem would be amiss not to pay Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa a visit. A stand-out for foodies, the hotel is home to the 3 AA-Rosette awarded Sandemans restaurant, which is renowned for its outstanding tasting menu. The restaurant is open from Tuesday until Saturday from 6pm, with advanced booking essential.

Oban, Argyll and Bute

A hub for travel to the Inner Hebrides, Oban remains a consistently cool coastal town, with July and August temperatures averaging just 17°C.

It’s a convenient base for island-hopping but offers plenty to do in its own right, including McCaig’s Tower and Oban Distillery, as well as plenty of outstanding restaurants for visitors to sample some of the very best seafood that the West Coast has to offer.

For foodies looking to escape the heat this summer, The Grill Room – an AA-Rosette awarded restaurant situated within Oban Bay Hotel – is the perfect place to dine. With exceptional, locally sourced seafood and service to match, it’s a must visit for those visiting the Esplanade.

Ballater, Aberdeenshire

Nestled within the Cairngorms National Park, Ballater enjoys cool, fresh air with average summer highs of just 16°C.

This Royal Deeside village is known for its links to the Royal Family and outdoor access, with plenty of opportunities to explore the Balmoral Estate and Glen Muik, as well as the Cambus O’May forest and the local railway museum.

For those looking to sample a regal visit to the area, the Balmoral Arms is the perfect place to stay. With beautiful rooms and suites, this dog-friendly gem has traditional Scottish music every other Thursday – perfect after a day of exploring the area.