In recent years, a new way of travelling has been gaining popularity: authentic, rejuvenating, and connected to nature — the Coolcation.
The term comes from the combination of “cool” and “vacation”, and refers to the choice of spending holidays away from hot and crowded destinations, opting instead for green, shaded places where you can reconnect with nature.
This trend is rapidly growing, as more and more people are looking for slower, more sustainable travel experiences that help regenerate both body and mind.
Why choose a coolcation in summer?
Traditional summer holidays by the sea, especially during peak season, often mean crowded beaches, intense heat, and higher prices. A Coolcation in Italy offers the perfect alternative, allowing you to:
- Enjoy summer in a pleasant climate, away from humidity and extreme heat;.
- Immerse yourself in unspoiled natural landscapes, far from the chaos of big cities;
- Choose a more sustainable way of travelling, respectful of the environment and local communities;
- Restore physical and mental well-being through outdoor activities such as trekking, walking trails, and cycling routes;
- Slow down and dedicate more time to yourself, rediscovering the pleasure of an authentic journey.
A Coolcation is not just an escape from the heat: it is a new way of experiencing travel, allowing yourself to be regenerated by nature, slower rhythms, and outdoor experiences.
Coolcation in Italy: Walking and Cycling Tours
The best experiences that reflect the spirit of Coolcation are walking and cycling trips.
Cycling or walking allows you to immerse yourself in untouched areas, breathe fresh air, discover hidden villages, and slow down from the hectic pace of everyday life.
Italy is the perfect destination for a fresh and authentic summer: mountains, forests, and hills provide shade and mild temperatures even during the hottest months.

Coolcation: The Slow Active Tours proposal
At Slow Active Tours, a tour operator specializing in walking and cycling holidays, we offer the perfect itineraries to experience an alternative summer:
- Cammino di San Nilo: from Sapri to Palinuro, exploring Cilento National Park, waterfalls, and WWF oases.
- Via degli Dei: from Bologna to Florence, across the Apennines between history and nature.
- Via di Francesco: a journey combining spirituality, nature, and culture in the green heart of Italy.
- Via Francigena: enchanting stages among rolling hills, castles, and historic routes, perfect even in summer
These paths invite you to experience authentic travel, rich in nature, well-being, and discovery.

Coolcation: More Than a Holiday, a Lifestyle
The Coolcation in Italy is not just a passing trend but a new way of traveling: slow, conscious, and in harmony with the environment. Choosing a refreshing holiday means gifting yourself quality time, far from scorching heat and crowds, rediscovering the joy of walking, breathing, and observing.
Visit our website to explore all the walking routes that will make your Coolcation in Italy unforgettable.