From Alpine Peaks to Atlantic Shores: My Definitive Summer 2026 Travel Guide

Martin Hesp
6 hours ago
3 min read

As we look toward Summer 2026, the travel world is changing. People are moving away from crowded 'tourist traps' in favour of what I’ve always called ‘Real Experiences.’ Whether it’s a luxury windjammer in the Med or a hidden cove in North Devon, this summer is all about finding the soul of a place. Here are my top recommendations from my own notebooks and journeys.

Mount Etna gently smokes above a calm sea

The Mediterranean Reimagined: Small Ship Cruising

The Vibe: Sailing from Naples to Valletta.

If you can afford it, skip the giant liners and look for wind-powered heritage vessels. A luxury holiday under sail gives you so, so much more—somehow you are a lot more connected to the sea and you feel that you’ve been on a real maritime journey. Plus, smaller sailing vessels like the Sea Cloud can visit much more intimate ports of call.

Read more:Sailing Around Sicily & The Sea Cloud Spirit

The "Cool-Cation" – Switzerland

With Mediterranean summers getting hotter, Switzerland is a massive 2026 trend.

The Vibe: Belle Époque elegance and mountain air.

Follow in Mark Twain’s footsteps in Vitznau for a quieter, cooler summer escape. These cool mountain resorts really do offer a unique atmosphere in summer. There’s always plenty to do—endless walks, boat rides, funicular journeys, and excellent restaurants.

Read more:Swiss Historic Hotels and The Matterhorn

The Secret West Country

A West Country holiday in 2026 offers the ultimate "slow travel" escape, where the allure of the Atlantic coast meets a sophisticated, human-centred revival of heritage and food. While the Mediterranean swelters, you can find sanctuary in the "cool-cation" breeze of the North Devon cliffs or the shaded coombes of Exmoor, perhaps timing your visit to catch the 50th-anniversary celebrations of Aardman in Bristol or a first-hand foraging masterclass along the Jurassic Coast.

Exmoor Coast, looking down on Lynton and Lynmouth

From the rejuvenated seaside charm of Clevedon on the Somerset coast to the timeless, salt-sprayed paths of Porthleven, the region remains a bastion of authentic, non-automated experiences where every pint of craft cider and every hidden cove tells a story that no algorithm could ever replicate.

The Vibe: Hidden waterfalls and circular walks with a pub at the end. Head to the "untrodden" parts of the South West Coast Path to avoid the July and August crowds.

Read more:Speke’s Mill Mouth: Devon’s Secret Seaside
Read more:The Classic Fowey Circular Walk

Summer Flavours

Summer 2026 is the season of the 'grown-up' drink—where the ancient art of the West Country meets modern refinement. Forget the mass-produced fizz; this year is all about the revived méthode champenoise techniques.

Whether it’s the hefty, smoky tannins of a vintage cider or the crisp, botanical notes of a small-batch coastal gin, these are 'liquid stories' that celebrate the true heritage of the vine and orchard.

The Vibe: Alfresco dining and artisanal drinks.

Read more:Perfect Summer Drinks (Pet Nat & Beyond)

Vintage ciders in the glass — Vintage ciders

Heading North: Denmark & Scotland

While the Mediterranean remains iconic, the 'punishing' heatwaves of recent years have changed the game. For Summer 2026, savvy travellers are looking North. I’ve spent time exploring the 'Coastal Lands' of Denmark and the rugged beauty of Scotland, finding that you don’t need blistering heat to have a world-class seaside holiday.

Negotiating the locks on the Calednonian Canal

Denmark: Kystlandet and the "Newlyn of the North"

When I visited Northern Denmark, I was struck by the incredible quality of the light, which I learned gave rise to an artistic connection between Cornwall and Denmark.

The Destination: Skagen and Kystlandet (The Coastal Land). I’d also recommend a stay at the Jørgensens Hotel in Horsens for a civilised, quiet, and well-mannered escape.