Tired of hot summers? Try a coolcation in Sweden!
- peeterssandra
- Apr 9
- 4 min read
Are you tired of sweating through your summer vacation?
Do you love being active outdoors but find yourself hiding in air-conditioned rooms during the hottest part of the day?
I've always felt the same way. For years, summer holidays were actually my least favorite, despite loving outdoor activities. I'd spend the hottest hours indoors, waiting for evening to come so I could finally venture outside again.
That all changed when I discovered Scandinavia. My first Swedish summer was a revelation – hiking at midday without feeling like I was melting, enjoying refreshing lake swims, and sleeping comfortably at night without air conditioning.
Welcome to the world of "coolcations" – where perfect 23°C (73°F) days let you truly enjoy summer instead of just surviving it.
What is a Coolcation?
A coolcation is exactly what it sounds like – a vacation destination chosen specifically for its milder, more comfortable climate. As global temperatures continue to rise, travelers worldwide are increasingly looking north for their summer getaways, seeking destinations where outdoor activities remain pleasant throughout the day.
A Typical Coolcation at Nygård Cabins
Day 1: Arrival & Settling In
Arrive to comfortable summer temperatures and immediately notice the difference in air quality.
After checking in, take a short walk to the nearby lake for an evening swim in the surprisingly pleasant water.
As the sun slowly sets around 10:30 PM but never fully disappears, enjoy a light meal on your cabin terrace in the magical twilight that lasts all night during midsummer.
Cabin Hallon
Day 2: Forest & River Exploration
Wake naturally with the sounds of nature and enjoy morning coffee while watching for wildlife from your window.
Spend the morning kayaking down a wild river where nature remains untouched—fallen trees create natural obstacles, banks overflow with vegetation, and you'll likely be the only human for miles.
Head to a local restaurant for "dagens lunch" (daily lunch special). For about 10 euros or 11 USD, you can enjoy a healthy buffet meal with salad bar, water or juice, and coffee or tea—all included in the price!
In the afternoon, hike one of the nearby forest trails without worrying about heat exhaustion or sunburn.
The evening brings a traditional Swedish barbecue under the still-bright sky.
An summer evening walk at 11pm
Day 3: Cultural Discovery
Drive to nearby cultural attractions like Mårbacka (Selma Lagerlöf's home) or the Torsby Finnskogscentrum to learn about the region's rich heritage.
In the late afternoon, visit a local "loppis" (Swedish flea market) to hunt for unique souvenirs.
Visit a local restaurant and eat your dinner on the terrace, enjoying the comfortable evening temperatures while sampling typical Swedish dishes.
Day 4: Water Day
Dedicate the day to enjoying Sweden's lake culture.
Start with swimming and paddleboarding in the morning, followed by afternoon fishing.
The consistent lake temperature of 22-25°C (72-77°F) makes water activities comfortable all day.
End the day by grilling your freshly caught fish - or if you haven't been lucky, sausages - over an open fire. At nearly every lake in the area, you'll find designated grilling spots with free access to wood—a beloved Swedish tradition.
Our local tip: Families with young children might prefer a visit to Sunne Sommarland, a popular outdoor water park with slides, pools, and play areas—a refreshing way to enjoy water activities with convenient facilities.
Day 5: Adventure & Relaxation
Balance adventure with relaxation by starting your day with an exhilarating downhill cycling experience at Sunne Ski and Bike, where winter slopes transform into exciting mountain biking trails during summer.
Spend the afternoon berry picking in the forests and learning about edible wild plants and mushrooms.
The cool evening is perfect for enjoying your harvest with a sunset picnic.
Why Nygård Cabins is Your Perfect Coolcation Base
Nygård Cabins are designed to maximize the Swedish summer experience:
Large windows to capture the golden evening light that extends late into the night
Terraces positioned for optimal sun/shade balance
Access to quiet swimming spots on the lake
Comfortable beds with only the sounds of nature to put you to sleep
Located in rural Sunne, Värmland, with two modern cabins (6 guests each) and one tiny cabin (2 guests)
The Unexpected Benefits of a Coolcation
What surprises visitors most about coolcations:
Better sleep: Cool nights mean deeper, more restful sleep
Increased energy: No midday energy slumps from heat exhaustion
More active days: When you're not hiding from the sun, you can do more
Natural reset: The combination of fresh air, comfortable temperatures, and natural light patterns helps reset your body clock
If you're ready to experience the refreshing alternative to overheated summer destinations, Nygård Cabins welcomes you for your 2025 coolcation.
FAQs About Coolcations at Nygård Cabins
Q: Is it ever too cold to swim in summer?
A: Not at all! The lakes reach 22-25°C (72-77°F) in July – comparable to many outdoor pools. July and August offer the most pleasant swimming temperatures.
Q: Will I need special clothing for a summer visit?
A: Just bring layers. Daytime temperatures warrant typical summer clothing, but evenings cool down to 12-15°C (54-59°F). A light jacket and long pants are sufficient for summer evenings.
Q: How do guests deal with the extended daylight hours for sleeping?
A: All cabins have blackout curtains, but we recommend taking a sleep mask if you are a light sleeper. Most visitors adjust quickly and enjoy the energizing effects of the extended daylight.
Q: What if we get a rainy day during our coolcation?
A: Swedish summer rain is typically brief and predictable. There are plenty of cozy indoor activities available, though they're rarely needed for full days.
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