By: Mike Coleman
Looking for a final escape to wrap up this summer? Here are 15 very fun destinations to consider for a creative, adventurous goodbye to the heat and welcome to glorious fall festivities!
Ålesund, Norway
Photo by Nicolai Berntsen on Unsplash
A coastal town famed for its Art Nouveau architecture, Ålesund was rebuilt in this style after a fire devastated the town overnight in 1904. It’s an art and history lover’s dream, and a stark contrast to the raw beauty of Norway’s fjords and mountains. By the end of summer, you can enjoy mild weather, longer daylight hours, and fewer tourists, making it a wonderful escape.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Photo by Yogendra Negi on Unsplash
Situated in the Julian Alps, Lake Bled looks as if it’s been pulled from the pages of a storybook. The lake’s emerald waters house a quaint island with a church, and overseeing it all is the Bled Castle, up high on a cliff. End of summer provides warm water temperatures, ideal for boating and swimming, while the surrounding forests offer shaded hiking opportunities.
San Marino
Photo by Matteo Panara on Unsplash
Often overshadowed by its neighboring Italian towns, San Marino is absolutely a must-visit. Being one of the world’s oldest and smallest republics, it’s home to medieval fortresses, cobblestone streets, and amazing views from Mount Titano. Late summer sees fewer crowds and provides a temperate climate to explore its historic spots.
Aysén Region, Chile
Photo by Thomas Griggs on Unsplash
This lesser-known area of Chilean Patagonia has dramatic landscapes that range from rainforests to glacial fjords. With fewer tourists than Torres del Paine, you can enjoy solitude and nature, especially during the tail end of the southern summer.
Sighnaghi, Georgia
Photo by Nikolay Werner on Unsplash
This walled town in Georgia’s wine region is full of history, culture, and romance. Walk along its cobblestone streets, admire the wooden balconies, and drink in the millennia-old wine culture. As summer wanes, vineyards prepare for harvest, offering a great insight into traditional winemaking.
Isles of Scilly, UK
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
A temperate and subtropical paradise, these islands off Cornwall’s coast have white sandy beaches, beautiful gardens, and clear azure waters. At summer’s end, they offer the perfect climate—warm, yet devoid of the peak season’s tourist bustle.
Dharamshala & McLeod Ganj, India
These hill stations offer a spiritual retreat. Home to the Tibetan government-in-exile, you can immerse yourself in Tibetan culture, explore monasteries, and attend teachings. Late summer provides a respite from monsoon rains and sets the stage for the region’s bright festivals.
Lofoten Islands, Norway
Photo by Johny Goerend on Unsplash
An archipelago above the Arctic Circle, Lofoten is a fusion of rugged mountains, deep-blue seas, and traditional red fishing huts. By the end of summer, you might catch the first glimpses of the Northern Lights, while enjoying the residual warmth of the midnight sun.
The Azores, Portugal
Photo by Damir Babacic on Unsplash
Volcanic craters, thermal springs, and lush landscapes make these islands an adventurer’s paradise. As summer concludes, the weather remains balmy, and the migrating whales and dolphins make for spectacular viewing opportunities.
Gimmelwald, Switzerland
Photo by Leila Azevedo on Unsplash
Located in the Swiss Alps, Gimmelwald is a timeless village where traditional alpine life continues unhindered. With summer drawing to a close, the trails are less crowded, allowing for peaceful hikes with amazing mountain views.
Naoshima, Japan
Art mixes with nature on this island, home to contemporary art museums, sculptures, and installations. As summer fades, the pleasant weather offers the perfect ambience to explore both the cultural landmarks and the beautiful landscapes.
Rila Monastery, Bulgaria
Photo by Chris Hristov on Unsplash
This UNESCO World Heritage site, situated amidst the forested Rila Mountains, is a showcase of Bulgaria’s rich spiritual and artistic traditions. As summer’s heat subsides, the monastery’s surroundings are filled with autumn colors—visit its museums and learn all about its history and importance.
Moldova
Photo by Oksana Simanovscaia on Unsplash
Among Europe’s least visited countries is a haven for wine enthusiasts. Beneath the rolling countryside lie vast wine cellars, some among the world’s largest. Visiting as summer concludes aligns with grape harvest, offering fresh wines and festivals.
Bhutan
Photo by Aaron Santelices on Unsplash
A nation where happiness is a metric for progress, Bhutan is a mix of pristine landscapes and profound spirituality. The end of summer brings about vibrant festivals, too.
Tanna Island, Vanuatu
Photo by Seiji Seiji on Unsplash
Home to the accessible Mount Yasur volcano, Tanna offers a raw, elemental experience. Dive into blue holes, witness traditional kastom dances, and relax on untouched beaches.
Have you had the opportunity to visit any of these places? Share your story and advice with the Frayed Passport community!
Featured image by Yue-Ting Lin on Unsplash