Beat the sweltering summer heat by taking a coolcation. Head to destinations with lower temperatures — escapes with alpine lakes and shaded trails — away from crowded summer hot spots.

Wherever you roam, travel insurance is the perfect companion. You should know that your domestic health insurance plan may not offer protection if you experience a medical emergency abroad. An Allianz Travel Insurance plan with emergency medical benefits may help in the event of a covered medical emergency. We also offer trip cancellation, interruption and delay benefits as well as protection for lost, damaged or delayed luggage.

Here are our top recommendations for domestic and international coolcations. Have fun, explore, stay chill!

In the U.S.

Jackson Hole, Wyoming

This mountain valley town is known for both its proximity to outdoor recreation and cosmopolitan outings. During the day, visit to nearby Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park for hiking, climbing, rafting and other outdoor adventures. Later in the day, head back into town for the epic food and arts scene. Jackson Hole is home to more than 25 galleries, including the notable Astoria Fine Art, Horizon Fine Art, Gallery Wild, and Altamira Fine Art. Hang out at the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar for live music, drinks and a bite.

Average summer highs: Low 80s

Aspen, Colorado

Aspen is easily the most renowned ski destination in the U.S., but the town is worth a visit outside of the peak winter travel season. Hike around the Maroon Bells, towering red peaks that look over glacial Maroon Creek Valley. For an easy stroll close to the city, head to the Rio Grande Trail for views of snowmelt in rushing rapids. It’s worth timing your visit to one of Aspen’s popular music festivals, including The Aspen Music Festival and School, Up in the Sky, and the JAS Labor Day Experience.

Average summer highs: Above 64 degrees

Big Sur, California

Take a drive on the iconic Highway 1 along 90 miles of the gorgeous Central California Coast. Hike the rocky shores of Point Lobos State Natural Reserve and spot sea lions, otters and harbor seals. Camp under the redwoods at Big Sur State Park after a day of lounging on Pfeiffer beach, known for its purple sands that are more vibrant after a rain storm. While cruising Highway, be sure to stop at Bixby Bridge to take a photo at one of the most beautiful spots in the area.

Average summer highs: 67 to 76 degrees

The Berkshires, Massachusetts

Take advantage of cool New England evenings and take a summer trip in The Berkshires. Time your visit to the Tanglewood Music Festival in Lenox, held annually in late June through the first days of August. Lovers of art and culture will also want to check out MASS MoCA for imaginative contemporary art exhibitions and performances. If you’re craving outdoor adventures, take a leisurely bike ride on Ashuwillticook Rail Trail, swim in the Berkshire Lakes or hike part of the nearby Appalachian Trail.

Average summer highs: Just below or at 80 degrees

International Coolcations

Wellington, New Zealand

Take advantage of winter temperatures in the Southern Hemisphere and head to the capital of New Zealand. Named “the coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet, Wellington, New Zealand is full of culture, nightlife, history, art and more!

Fans of the Lord of the Rings trilogy should head to Weta Workshops, home of the artisans and creatives who brought the movies to life. Take an immersive tour of Weta’s studios to learn about the props, costumes and builds seen on screen. Take in panoramic views of the city on Mount Victoria Lookout. Ride the Wellington Cable Car route up to the Wellington Botanic Gardens. Visit Te Papa, New Zealand’s national museum, to learn more about the South Pacific nation.

June to August, average highs: Mid 50s

Sydney, Australia

Sydney, Australia is a beach lovers paradise, offering more than 100 beaches along it’s coast and within Sydney Harbour and Botany Bay. A visit to Sydney isn’t complete without hitting the shores of the renowned Bondi Beach. If you prefer more quiet waters away from the Bondi crowds, check out this list of tranquil beaches away from the hustle. Though the temps are lower, lounging, beachcombing and hiking are still welcoming.

Sydney is a great destination for travelers seeking a mix of city experiences and nature immersion. Save room in your luggage for unique vintage clothing, jewelry and trinkets from one of Sydney’s eclectic outdoor weekend markets. Learn about Aboriginal history at the Rocks Discovery Museum and view the latest exhibitions at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Take in dramatic natural views while hiking the Bondi to Coogee Trail, North Head and at the nearby Royal National Park.

June to August, average daily highs: Mid 60s

Lahemaa National Park, Estonia

A secluded, wild jewel, Lahemaa is tucked within the southern shore of the Gulf of Finland, in the northernmost islands of Estonia. “You’ll find lush native forests, wetlands stretching to the horizon, and both rocky and sandy beaches,” writes Visit Estonia. The national park is an ideal destination for wildlife watchers.

Take a Lynx, bear and wolf watching tour in Lehemaa before heading northwest for seal spotting in Alutaguse. Book a tour of Lahemaa with a local guide to explore the park’s incredible waterfalls, the  Vasaristi, Nõmmeveski, and Joaveski cascades. Hike through haunting but beautiful bogs and forests while learning about Estonian folklore, culture and history. Make time to head to Altja fishing village in Lahemaa to learn about the country’s maritime heritage.

Average summer highs: Low 70s

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

High in the Dolomites of northwest Italy, Cortina d’Ampezzo is an alpine heaven. Thrill seekers should ascend the Via ferrata, Giovanni Lipella, which circles Tofana di Rozes, a peak in the Tofane mountain range. The astounding views are well worth the nearly 10-mile climb. Italian for “iron way”, Via ferrata was used during World War I to move troops through mountain terrain.

The region also has no shortage of hikes of various difficulties. Walk an easy, circuitous route around the turquoise waters of Lago di Braies, Lago di Sorapis and Croda da Lago. Or get your heart pumping in pursuit of striking views on these hikes: Tre Cime di Lavaredo, Cinque Torri and Lagazuoi.

Average summer highs: Mid to upper 70s

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