5 Restorative Summer Escapes
When warmer weather ushers everyone out of their homes, it can seem impossible to find a place that’s not overrun with travelers. If you’re looking to escape the hordes of selfie-snapping tourists, we have a few favorite far-flung destinations for explorers in need of a little nature therapy and cultural immersion. Find your peace and restoration in these destinations this summer.
The Faroe Islands
If your summer could use a dash of whimsy, the Faroe Islands are your best bet. This Archipelago halfway between Iceland and Norway can be rainy and cold most of the year. But come June, this lush paradise comes to life. Cruise around and catch the puffins sunning themselves on the cliffs. Wander through the colorful villages with their sod-roof homes before enjoying tea with a local family. If you book your trip at the right time, you might even catch a sea grotto concert in a cave, with incredible acoustics and ambience.
Mongolia
Perhaps you’ve seen a photo of a fur-clad nomad riding a horse, with a massive eagle perched on their arm. But there is nothing like watching these eagle hunters in action. Every August draws travelers from all over the world to witness this during the Eagle Hunters Festival. There is a strong bond developed between eagle and hunter, and to observe this duo in their element is unlike anything we see here in the states. Explorer X travel designer, Robyn, recently shared her experience in the Mongolian wilderness, and anyone who goes is in for a wild ride!
Norway
While the Northern Lights in the winter are magical, Norway in the summer is Mother Nature really showing off. With long days of sunlight shining down on the fjords, every day feels like an endless celebration. If you can time your trip for the week of June 23rd, you’ll get to experience Midsummer Night, a festive time for gathering and enjoying aquavit with the locals. And if you’re really far north in Norway, you might even get a chance to see the midnight sun!
Slovenia
Picture a raging glacier river with the most vibrant hues of turquoise and green you can imagine – that’s the landscape of Slovenia in the peak of summer. Bordering the North-East coast of Italy, Slovenia’s mountains and valleys are the perfect backdrops for a hike, a paddle, a cycle, or whatever your adventure style is. Add in the fact that Slovenia is an up & coming culinary destination, from beautiful farms & vineyards to a growing portfolio of Michelin-star restaurants, and Slovenia checks all the boxes.
South Africa
While our summer is South Africa’s winter, June-September is our favorite time to visit to avoid the intense heat and dry landscape. A safari ride at this time of year is sure to be lush, green, and comfortable. The wildlife, while still abundant, may be a bit harder to see during these months. That doesn’t mean it’s not worth a visit during this time, especially if you like traveling during the shoulder seasons to avoid throngs of tourists.
Begin Your Journey Now
Which of these destinations is speaking to you? To plan a trip for this summer, we recommend getting started with the planning now.