Seven Summer Escapes That Keep Their Cool

Words Vidula KotianDate 12 August 2026

The best summer escapes are often found where the air is cooler, the surroundings quieter, and the connection to place runs deeper. From mountain retreats above the heat to island hideaways surrounded by water, and historic stays woven into their settings, these hotels offer a more thoughtful way to travel.

Two Sides of Iceland’s Summer with ION Hotels

Iceland in summer shifts effortlessly between wild landscapes and city life, all beneath endless daylight. ION captures both sides of the season. Set near Thingvellir National Park, ION Luxury Adventure Hotel is a glass-and-steel structure suspended above the lava fields. The hotel is a base for exploring Iceland’s natural wonders, from hiking and horseback riding to snorkeling between tectonic plates at Silfra.

In Reykjavík, ION City Hotel brings the same Nordic sensibility into the heart of the capital, with locally inspired interiors, contemporary art, and easy access to the city’s creative scene. Summer brings the city outdoors, with harbor walks, geothermal pools, independent galleries, and lively cafés all within easy reach.

An Alpine Escape Above the Clouds at Chetzeron

Perched at 2,112 meters above sea level, Chetzeron transforms a former cable car station into one of the Alps’ most unexpected summer retreats. Concrete, steel, and vast expanses of glass preserve the building’s industrial character while opening every space to uninterrupted mountain views.

Hiking trails, mountain bike routes, and outdoor yoga start right outside the door, while nearby Crans-Montana adds a lively summer calendar of festivals, markets, and cultural events. Here, it’s easy to alternate between alpine solitude and the energy of the valley below.

Gateway to the Engadin’s Summer Trails at Nira Alpina

Set at the foot of the Corvatsch cable car in Silvaplana, Nira Alpina places the Engadin’s summer landscape within immediate reach. Floor-to-ceiling glazing frames the surrounding peaks, while warm timber, natural stone, and generous terraces keep the focus on the mountains beyond.

Hiking and mountain bike trails begin just outside the hotel, with the Corvatsch lift opening access to high-alpine routes and panoramic viewpoints. Down in the valley, the lakes of Silvaplana and St. Moritz come alive with sailing, windsurfing, and open-air dining.

An Escape to Stockholm’s Green Island at Hotel Skeppsholmen

Located on Stockholm’s leafy island, Hotel Skeppsholmen feels worlds away while remaining at the center of Stockholm. Housed in former 17th-century naval buildings, the hotel retains the quiet rhythm of its historic setting—thick walls, timber details, and waterside views—while introducing a restrained Swedish simplicity throughout.

The island becomes the perfect starting point for exploring the city—by foot, bicycle, or ferry—with Moderna Museet next door, waterfront paths to follow, and the archipelago just beyond.

A Historic Escape by Stockholm’s Bay at Stallmästaregården

Set on the shores of Brunnsviken and bordering the leafy paths of Hagaparken, Stallmästaregården offers a quieter side of Stockholm while remaining close to the city’s cultural highlights. Sweden’s oldest inn pairs centuries-old architecture with understated Scandinavian interiors, creating a stay rooted in the landscape and history of the capital.

Summer days begin with walks through the royal park, afternoons exploring Stockholm’s islands, waterfront cafés, and museums, while August brings free concerts, outdoor performances, and the Stockholm Culture Festival to the city.

Between History, Art, and Wellbeing at Helsinki’s Hotel St. George

Hotel St. George brings together Helsinki’s architectural heritage with a contemporary approach to hospitality. Set opposite Old Church Park in a restored 19th-century building, the hotel layers historic details with a curated art collection, sculptural interiors, a light-filled Winter Garden, and spaces dedicated to well-being.

Beyond its spa and sauna facilities, Hotel St. George also offers The Healthspan Stay in collaboration with Hintsa Performance, combining personal health assessments with a tailored approach to long-term well-being. Outside, Helsinki’s long summer days invite slow walks along the waterfront, visits to island archipelagos, open-air cafés, and evenings that stretch well into the night.