12 summer holidays that aren't your typical European beach escape
Get away from the crowds of the Med with our alternative summer holiday ideas
Summer holidays are one of the greatest escapes of the year, when you can soak up the seasonal sunshine and warmth - usually in the Mediterranean. While Greece and Italy are fine spots to spend your summer break, they're not the only places to bliss out during the hottest months of the year.
What if we were to tell you that going beyond the usual summer holiday spots offers a wealth of adventure and fantastic experiences that will change the way you travel? To inspire you to leave the crowds of the Med behind and try something different this year, we've selected some top summer holiday locations, where you can spot wildlife, ride nostalgic trains and feast on new cuisines.
Helping you make the most of your summer holidays, these trips don't just offer superb weather, but will take you to the most scenic corners of the world for a trip you'll never forget.
From a ride on Switzerland's Bernina Express to a solo beach break to Jersey, here's our pick of the best alternative 2020 summer holidays.
Bernina Express
Alternative summer holidays in Europe don't get better than rail trips and Switzerland's Bernina Express should be top of your list for 2020. Aside from the stunning mountain scenery, epic bridges and breathtaking lakes, this UNESCO-protected train ride is great for combining with nearby Lake Como and glitzy St Moritz. BOOK NOW
Jersey
The Mediterranean might have turquoise waters and sandy shores but so does Jersey! Take a short hop from the UK's mainland over to the Channel Islands where this peaceful isle awaits. Ideal for a late summer solo holiday (we have just the trip for you), the small island is a great place to soak up the last of the rays, relax on the golden sands and explore some fascinating history. BOOK NOW
Georgia
One of the hottest places to visit this year, Georgia is a European destination to consider if you like your summer holiday with friendly people, terrific food and beautiful scenery. The lively capital Tbilisi and its old town are must-sees, alongside the Caucasus Mountains, cave complex Davit Gareja and Rabat Castle. BOOK NOW
Austrian Tyrol
Austria's lush Alpine region offers a fantastic escape from the crowds of Europe's beaches in the summer months. As postcard-perfect as it looks in the photos, Tyrol is where you can breathe in the cleanest mountain air, take in the beauty of sparkling lakes and walk to your heart's content. Summer brings colourful wildflower meadows to the valley of Zillertal and superb conditions to explore the city of Innsbruck. BOOK NOW
Borneo
Go long-haul on your summer holiday with a wildlife adventure in Borneo in June - it's one of the finest months to spot orangutans in the wild. The dry season is also a great time to see proboscis monkeys and pygmy elephants. During a trip, you can cruise the scenic Kinabatangan River, explore Gomantong Caves and enjoy some beach time at a five-star resort. BOOK NOW
North Yorkshire
Summer is the ideal time for a holiday in the UK and Yorkshire is home to some pretty towns and cities you'll want to get to know when the leaves turn green. Talking of green, its gardens are an absolute must-see, with the likes of Scampston Hall and Jackson's Wold ablaze with colour in June. You won't want to miss a walk through picturesque Harrogate and York, either. Join celebrity gardener Joe Swift as you discover Yorkshire's treasures this summer. BOOK NOW
Norwegian fjords
With its dramatic cliffs and deep fjords, Norway makes for a splendid summer getaway. The scenery at this time of year is simply glorious and you'll want to take in the likes of Eidfjord, Hardangerfjord and Geirangerfjord to see the best of the Norwegian fjords. You can experience the fjords and enjoy some unforgettable entertainment from TV's Hairy Bikers on a unique cruise this summer. BOOK NOW
Scottish Highlands
See the Scottish Highlands when it's lush, green and wild in the summer months with a fantastic steam train tour. The Jacobite, which takes you across the epic Glenfinnan Viaduct, is something you have to experience at least once in your life, and the stunning Inverary Castle on the shore of Loch Fyne is another must-do in the Highlands, along with the Falkirk Wheel, the world's only rotating boat. BOOK NOW
Uzbekistan
For a summer holiday like nothing else you've experienced, travel the ancient Silk Road as you explore Uzbekistan on an off-the-beaten-path adventure. You'll find bustling bazaars, incredible desert castles and majestic mosques to explore, along with wonderful Uzbek cuisine and wine to taste along the way. If you're looking for an alternative summer destination you'll never forget, a trip to this beautiful Central Asian country like Joanna Lumley is the one for you. BOOK NOW
Alaska
Visit Alaska in late August and you'll benefit from incredible humpback whale viewing in Juneau, peak blueberry season and even the chance to see the Northern Lights. There are plenty of opportunities to get active with glacier hiking as you get up close to the ice, too. One of the best ways to see Alaska in the summer is by combining it with a ride on Canada's incredible Rocky Mountaineer. BOOK NOW
Norfolk Broads
Mekong River
Travel to Asia for the experience of a lifetime as you cruise the majestic Mekong River on a summer holiday like no other. If you'e searching for the perfect summer cruise, this is it. You'll explore both Vietnam and Cambodia, interacting with local communities, visiting impressive temples and spending time in bustling cities. BOOK NOW
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