It’s fair to say the sun hasn’t been sporting its hat much this summer, with the occasional splash of sunshine here and there rarely lasting more than a day. While the promise of warmer weather may have convinced some, we’re willing to err on the side of caution when it comes to believing a blazing heatwave is on its way. The good news is that the rest of Europe and beyond is, in fact, enjoying balmy temperatures – and they’re easily within your reach. From the tropical Indian Ocean islands of the Seychelles to spending summer in the Swiss Alps, here’s where to travel in July for guaranteed sunshine and luxurious hospitality. Now, that’s what we call a win win.  

Swiss Alps, Switzerland

Average temperature in July: 25°C

Offering adventurous travellers a perfect alternative to the bustling Mediterranean, enjoy mild temperatures, fresh Alpine air, abundant natural beauty and quieter climbs in the Swiss Alps this summer. Dotted with 300km of signposted trails that weave through moorlands, valleys, and high mountain peaks, the expansive network of hiking routes vary in difficulty, with some connected by lifts and cable cars to ensure there’s a route for everyone to enjoy. Take a scenic gondola ride from Gsteig up to the Col du Sanetsch where you can take an easy hike around the glistening Lake Sanetsch and enjoy a wild swim. Cheese-lovers in the Saanenland region should round off their hikes with traditional Swiss fondue and local wine at Ta Cave, while gazing out at the mountains beyond. 

Where to stay: Gstaad Palace

If you’re looking to experience the height of luxury during the Swiss summer, there’s only one place to be: Gstaad Palace. Open for the summer season until September, it makes for the perfect base from which to explore several scenic alpine hikes, as well as outdoor sporting adventures from adrenaline-inducing climbing and canyoning to paragliding and skydiving. Lounging by the pool isn’t off the cards either and, since 1928, the five-star hotel’s Olympic-sized pool has brought the flair of the Cote d’Azur to Gstaad, with guests spending long days poolside soaking up the sun and mountain vistas alongside refreshing cocktails and light summer dishes from the pool bar. Those with little ones in tow can enjoy family fun at Sammy’s Kids Club, while couples can book a romantic dinner at the palace gardens to sample a new Italian menu with views of the Oldenhorn mountain beyond. 

From £807 per night. 

Oslo, Norway

Images: Shutterstock

Average temperature in July: 23°C

While the snowy climes of Norway attract adventurers from November to March, head to Norway’s capital in July to discover Scandinavia’s coolest city come to life with culture, food and open-air concerts. Enjoy 17-hour sunlit days, Saturday morning saunas (trust us, it’s a thing) and a variety of museums and galleries, including the Munch Museum dedicated to Norway’s most renowned artist, responsible for internationally-acclaimed artwork, The Scream. Eco-conscious experiences help travellers connect to one of the world’s happiest (Norway currently ranks third in the world), healthiest (the city’s cars will be fully electric by next year) and most beautiful cities. Don’t miss Kistefos Sculpture Park – a world-renowned cultural attraction displaying large-scale works by international artists – and a stop at the Utøya Massacre Memorial, as well as many incredible viewpoints boasting panoramas across the inland fjords and distant mountain peaks along the way. 

Where to stay: Sommerro House

Housed in an original 1930s Art Deco building, Sommerro House is easily Oslo’s chicest five-star hotel. The 231-room property is a haven for art enthusiasts, with original works by celebrated Norwegian artist Per Krohg adorning the walls throughout and interiors courtesy of Adam Greco and Alice Lund, co-founders of New York and London-based GrecoDeco. Choose from four restaurants – Japanese-Scandinavian Tak Oslo is a real highlight – and three bars to while away the hours, or bask in Norwegian sun and fresh air atop the city’s first rooftop pool. This is the place to be and be seen. 

From £200 per night. 

Phuket, Thailand

Average temperature in July: 32°C

A gateway to southern Thailand, Phuket has experienced something of a facelift in recent years, as five-star brands flock to the island to cater for well-heeled travellers island-hopping in the Gulf of Thailand. Beyond Patong Beach, Thailand’s largest island has leafy mountainous peaks, white sandy beaches and jungles primed for exploration, as well as a number of authentic eateries serving pineapple fried rice, fragrant curries and fresh seafood to satiate the appetite of any foodie. Don’t miss the vibrant markets in the picture-perfect Old Town – famous for its Sino-Portuguese architecture – and climb the 94-steps up to the Big Buddha to be rewarded with panoramic views across the city. 

Where to stay: Amanpuri

Image: Aman

Image: Aman

Perched on Phuket’s western coast, against the backdrop of the Andaman sea, Amanpuri’s villas and pavilions are influenced by Thai temple designs, featuring sloping roofs, wooden accents and lined with bougainvillaea (some even have access to private pools). Relax at the spa, which infuses modern therapeutic practices with ancient healing rituals to offer a roster of medical and spa treatments, and book a range of signature facials and deep tissue massages. Get the endorphins pumping with Amanpuri’s variety of outdoor activities including a sea-view gym, four tennis courts, Pilates and yoga studios, and a Muay Thai boxing ring, before indulging in an array of cuisines spanning Thai, Italian, and Japanese.

From £1,200 per night, visit aman.com; return Economy fares from £623, Business class fares from £2,051, visit qatarairways.com

Mahé, Seychelles

Average temperature in July: 26°C

Comprising 115 islands ripe for exploration, the Seychelles has everything and more for an upmarket beach break. Need a royal stamp of approval before you book? The Prince and Princess of Wales honeymooned here – and if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for us. Head to the largest island in the archipelago, Mahé, and take to the glistening turquoise waters via surfing, snorkelling, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding excursions, while back on land enjoy yoga, creole cooking classes, hiking and mountainside meditation. For those keen to learn more about the Seychelles’ culture, book a private tour of the island’s art galleries and rum distilleries, as well as one-day trips to neighbouring islands. 

Where to stay: Four Seasons Seychelles

Located in the south of Mahé island, Four Seasons Resort Seychelles is nestled among 170 acres of lush tropical hillside overlooking Petite Anse Bay’s famous white sand beaches. The resort is home to 67 treehouse-style villas and suites, each complete with traditional Creole interior touches, private swimming pools, spacious outdoor living areas and panoramic ocean views. Perched high above the beach, Le Syel Spa offers the height of blissful seclusion and a range of treatments championing healing local ingredients, such as Seychellois coco de mer – a rare native palm tree – moringa, cassava and a variety of local flowers. Home to four restaurants, a poolside bar and cocktail lounge, enjoy freshly-caught seafood and Mediterranean-inspired specialties at the Kannel Restaurant and be transported to an Asian izakaya thanks to Zez, serving delectable street food snacks and creative cocktails. 

From £1,788 per night. 

Langkawi, Malaysia

Images: Shutterstock

Average temperature in July: 32°C

Dubbed the ‘legendary island’ in Malaysian folklore due to the myths surrounding its ancient landscape, Langkawi is the largest of the 99 islands in the archipelago. Must-see beaches include Datai Bay, Pantai Cenang, and Tanjung Rhu, while tourist attractions don’t get much better than Langkawi Sky Bridge: a 125-metre-long walkway boasting unrivalled views of the lush Gunung Mat Cincang, Telaja Tujuh waterfalls, and the several sandy islets surrounding Langkawi. Another option for adventurous explorers is the Langkawi cable car, which takes you to the peak of Gunung Machinchang and starts at the Oriental Village, where you’ll pass several shops and traditional eateries. 

Where to stay: St. Regis Langkawi

Looking for a beachfront paradise to unwind this July? Look no further than the St. Regis Langkawi. Available to book via the experts at luxury holiday platform Best At Travel, spacious rooms and four private over-water villas are designed with bold accents and local artwork, each offering sweeping sea vistas from private terraces. The hotel boasts a collection of four bars and restaurants, from the Asian and Mediterranean flavours at L’Orangerie to the evening jazz bar, with the star of the show being the over-water restaurant Kayuputi, offering pan-Asian cuisine served with a side of sunset views. There’s also a roster of activities on offer, including a state-of-the-art gym. Plus, St. Regis’ legendary butler service and child-friendly Family Traditions programme, complete with children’s menus and exclusive experiences, mean you might never wish to leave. 

From £1,999 per person for 10 nights. 

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