Over recent years, Norway has seen a spike in popularity, and it’s no wonder why. With some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery and welcoming locals a holiday to Norway will not disappoint. Choose from a spectacular fjord cruise, embark on an unforgettable rail journey, or opt to take things at your own pace on a Norway fly drive holiday.

Outdoor enthusiasts are in for a treat, as summer is prime time for hiking, cycling and kayaking. With endless daytime light, thanks to the annual midnight sun season in northern Norway, you can enjoy more time than ever to explore Norway’s spectacular landscapes. Temperatures vary across the country, with the coolest conditions found in the north and higher mountain regions, while southern and coastal areas enjoy pleasantly mild temperatures, typically ranging between 15°C-20°C.

Home to bubbling geysers, thunderous waterfalls and some of Europe’s most dramatic landscapes, Iceland is a place like no other. A year-round destination, summer is often the favoured season thanks to its long days and comfortable temperatures, which typically sit between 10°C-15°C, offering the perfect conditions for exploring Iceland’s extraordinary natural beauty.

The summer months are also an excellent time for wildlife encounters, with Iceland’s peak whale watching season in full swing and vast numbers of migratory puffins returning to the island’s dramatic cliffs to nest.

Tick off the country’s highlights on a sociable guided group tour or base yourself in Iceland’s creative capital Reykjavik to explore fascinating museums, stylish cafés and a thriving food scene. For those wishing to step away from the usual tourist trail, hire a car and drive Iceland's famous Ring Road north to Akureyri, the perfect jumping off point to experience the magic of North Iceland.

Taking the cool-cation to the next level, an Arctic cruise offers the ultimate escape from the summer heat. With dramatic icy landscapes, vast fjords and gigantic glaciers, the Arctic remains one of the last great wildernesses. A cruise above the Arctic Circle takes advantage of long daylight hours, with the incredible coastline of Svalbard a particular favourite, just a few hundred nautical miles from the North Pole.

Summer also brings milder temperatures, with the retreat of the sea ice allowing for more frequent shore excursions. As you cruise through the icy waters keep your eyes peeled for remarkable Arctic wildlife, including walruses, whales, and if you’re lucky, polar bears.

The summer months see the Swiss Alps transform form a winter playground into a landscape of lush valleys, colourful wildflower meadows, and some of Europe’s most beautiful alpine scenery. The slopes that were once blanketed in snow become a paradise for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels, while the cosy villages come alive with a vibrant summer atmosphere. For those hoping to take a more relaxed approach to sightseeing, scenic rail journeys remain just as spectacular, and cable cars provide effortless access to stunning viewpoints.

The cool, crisp mountain air provides the perfect retreat from summer’s intense heat, with temperatures typically ranging between 15°C -25°C in the valleys, and cooler conditions the higher you ascend into the mountains. Choose from a range of active adventure tours of simply find your perfect base to explore at your own pace.

If alpine scenery and cold-weather cruises aren’t ticking your boxes, and you’re wondering whether you’re really ready to give up your deckchair after all, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy sunshine and even tropical scenery without scorching temperatures.

During our summer months (June- August), the beautiful Indian Ocean island of Mauritius will be in its winter. Offering long stretches of white sand beaches, turquoise waters and an array of wonderful resorts, this country offers the perfect setting to unwind amongst stunning scenery. While the south of the island will be experiencing cooling trade winds, the west coast will be enjoying some of its lowest annual rainfall and pleasant daytime temperatures typically ranging around 22°C-25°C.

Beyond the island’s spectacular beaches Mauritius offers a range of experiences. Explore the beautiful Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, home to an enormous giant water lily pond, discover national parks with scenic hiking trails and cascading waterfalls, or immerse yourself in vibrant local markets - all of which can be enjoyed comfortably thanks to the island’s cooler winter temperatures.

Often overlooked in favour of Canada’s more popular west coast, Atlantic Canada offers rugged coastlines, charming towns, warm Canadian hospitality and unforgettable wildlife encounters. Home to four distinct yet complimentary provinces, this captivating region is one of the country’s best kept secrets.

Summer is the perfect time enjoy Nova Scotia’s fresh seafood and lively local festivals, Prince Edward Island’s beautiful beaches and Cape Breton Island’s coastal highways. This time of year also coincides with the best season for spotting whales and seabirds in the Bay of Fundy. Explore as part of an escorted tour or pick up a car and choose your own route. With long, sunny days and comfortable temperatures typically averaging between 20°C-25°C, Atlantic Canada promises an unforgettable summer escape.

If summer in the Northern Hemisphere doesn’t sound appealing, why not head south instead? Cape Town, one of the world's most breathtaking cities, will be enjoying winter, but thanks to its thriving dining scene, stylish boutiques and spectacular natural scenery, there’s plenty to do whatever the season. With just a three hour time difference and comfortable winter temperatures typically averaging 17°C-20°C, it's an ideal destination for an adventure without the heat.

TF's top hotel pick for Cape Town: Pepperclub Hotel

Just outside of Cape Town lies the picturesque Cape Winelands, renowned for their award-winning vineyards and exceptional restaurants.

TF’s top hotel pick for the Cape Winelands: Last Word Franschhoek

Or head to Hermanus, offering some of the world’s best land-based whale watching.

TF’s top hotel pick for Hermanus: Abalone Guest Lodge

Exploring South Africa in winter can also come with some fantastic savings. Take advantage of the quieter Cape game reserves, where fewer visitors mean a more exclusive safari experience and the crisp, clear, winter weather makes wildlife easier to spot as the animals stay out and about for much of the day.

TF’s top lodge pick: Kariega Ukhozi Lodge