Summer in the mountains: the surprising alternative to beaches

Words: Joanna Hunter

For some of us, summer will always mean sun, sand and surf. Yet there is another way. Cooler, generally quieter and jam-packed with a multitude of different opportunities to explore, a mountain holiday offers an intriguing alternative to the standard seaside sizzle. And that’s before we even mention all those views. Here are some of the best mountain destinations guaranteed to make your spirits soar. 

The Dolomites, Italy

If you think the Dolomites are just for skiing, think again. A Unesco World Heritage Site, the stunning Italian Eastern Alps offer a fantastically broad range of summer activities, whether you’re looking for inspiring vistas or more family-sized fun. Trek through serene forests, cycle along a fantastic network of well-maintained bike paths or enjoy a guided nature walk to conquer some iconic viewpoints and see the turquoise rivers. Whatever pace you choose, you can always relax by the many picturesque alpine lakes, the perfect spots for a picnic.

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The Catskills, USA

Only a couple of hours’ drive from New York city, the scenic Catskills might as well be another world. Even the road to get there – the aptly named Catskill Mountain Scenic Byway – is a beauty. There’s plenty of hiking, wild swimming and forest bathing to be had, but a large part of the Catskills’ charm comes from its strong cultural heritage. In the Washington Irving short story, Rip Van Winkle took his epic nap here, and it’s also home to the legendary Woodstock – and many other current music festivals. Don’t miss the chance to explore its charming small towns and villages, too, from historic Windham to arty Margaretville.

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Montserrat, Spain

Famed for its Benedictine monastery and the iconic Black Madonna statue, both of which attract thousands of pilgrims every year, Montserrat is an easy day trip from Barcelona – but that would be missing the point. The name comes from the Catalan for ‘saw tooth’ or ‘serrated mountain’ and it’s well worth breaking away from the crowds to explore the magnificent surrounding Natural Park. There are numerous hikes for all levels and world-class climbing routes, as well as the chance to stay in one of four mountain villages, each of which offer great views and a rich heritage, from Napoleonic battles to organ building.

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Mount Olympus, Greece

The highest mountain in Greece, it’s little wonder that the ancients believed the gods made their home here. It’s actually a mountain of many peaks – 52 in all – including towering Mytikas, the highest, reaching 9,572.6ft. It’s a rewarding multi-day trek to the top, but there are plenty of other gentle walking options, as well as birdwatching and mountain biking. Nearby you’ll also find the Archaeological Park of Dion, once home to Olympic Games held in Zeus’ honour, and now a mixture of fascinating ruins, from Greek amphitheatres to Roman baths and a shrine to Isis. It’s also a fantastic place to spot birds and local wildlife.

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The Scotland District, Barbados

Think of Barbados and you’ll likely think of beaches, but the exception to the island’s naturally flat landscape is the Scotland District, named for its resemblance to the Scottish Highlands. It may not seem particularly steep – the island’s highest peak, Mount Hillaby, stretches only 1,115ft – but it’s actually part of a vast undersea mountain range that extends from all the way from Trinidad to Puerto Rico, with rocks that date back some 50 million years. Hike the trails and you’ll be rewarded with a dramatic mixture of rugged peaks, lush forests, clifftop views – and the chance of spotting green monkeys or a mongoose. And, this being Barbados, you’re also never too far from a beautiful beach.

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