Climb one of Iceland’s spectacular volcanoes, fly and flop on Turkey’s Turquoise Coast or sample the exquisite pintxos of the Basque country.
Read on for our six August picks – from the North East of England all the way to South America.
Best places to visit in August
Best UK holiday destination in August: Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear
August high: 18°C
There are also three beautiful golden beaches to choose from – awarded the full five stars by visitors. Longsands Beach has hosted the British National Surfing Championships. The town itself boasts handsome terraces of Georgian and Victorian homes built for wealthy Newcastle merchants and ship owners.
On weekends, Tynemouth Market – 150 art, crafts and bric-a-brac stalls, tucked under the canopy of the Grade II-listed Metro station – is an option if the weather gets too elemental.
Best holiday destinations in August (short-haul): The Azores, Portugal
August high: 25°C
If mainland Portugal is a bit too hot in August, the Azores sits in the more comfortable mid-20s thanks to the Atlantic sea breeze. Characterised by dramatic volcanic landscapes and peppered with quaint fishing villages, the archipelago is ideal for nature lovers. Sao Miguel, the largest island, is known for its geothermal hot springs and volcanic craters.
After hiking the dramatic Miradouro da Boca do Inferno trail – famous for its crater lakes – you can soak your aching muscles in Ponta da Ferraria’s iron-rich pools. Or, if the weather is kind, relax on one of the otherworldly black sand beaches.
August marks the end of whale watching season when humpback, fin and even blue whales fill up on plankton before migrating to the Arctic.
Dalaman, Turkey
August high: 33°C
Sun-seekers are pretty much guaranteed blue skies and balmy temperatures on the Dalaman coast.
Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is also one of the cheapest destinations for an all-inclusive package holiday this summer – according to our recent research. The area's biggest city, Marmaris, is the place for livelier nightlife – but many people stay at smaller resorts, such as OluDeniz, with its famous Blue Lagoon.
The Datca peninsula, on the other side of Marmaris, is quieter if you want to escape the crowds. Take a drive through thick pine forests to pass fishing villages and beautiful blue waters backed by dramatic mountains.
Find a Dalaman holiday with a Which? Recommended Provider: , , , .Bilbao, Spain
August high: 24°C
Sunshine isn't guaranteed here, but the weather is typically much better than the UK. The colourful old town is packed with amazing pintxo bars (the classic Basque tapas). You're also only an hour and a half from the legendary restaurants and beaches of San Sebastian to the east, or the wineries of La Rioja to the south.
Those who want to holiday abroad with a lower carbon footprint can choose the twice-weekly ferry (Thursdays and Sundays) from Portsmouth, which takes just over 33 hours. You may even spot whales and dolphins along the way.
Find a Basque country holiday with a Which? Recommended Provider:Best holiday destination in August to avoid the heat: Iceland
August high: 12°C
Midnight sun, waterfalls and lush, green landscapes – Iceland in August is every bit as magical as it is during the winter. While August is not the time to spot the northern lights, the milder weather means you can explore areas which aren’t accessible during winter – such as Hvannadalshnukur mountain, Iceland’s highest peak.
Other top experiences include the Blue Lagoon, the Golden Circle and the south coast with its black sand beaches. In addition, August provides the opportunity to hike in the highlands, visit the Westfjords, and spot puffins, which migrate to Iceland between May and the end of August. The midnight sun is why many tourists flock to Iceland during the summer but, if you’re concerned about disrupted sleep, aim for the end of August when the dark nights begin to draw in.
Find an Iceland holiday with a Which? Recommended Provider: ,Best holiday destinations in August (long-haul): Peru
August high: 18°C
Peru’s rich history and diverse landscapes appeal to adventurous travellers. Go this August for fewer crowds and better weather in the middle of dry season.
Learn about the Incas in Cusco, the ancient civilisation’s capital. Rainbow Mountain is just an hour away, with its distinct coloured stripes – the result of different minerals creating a marbling effect.
Machu Picchu is likely to be the highlight of your trip, the lost city of the Incas. Take the train from Aguas Calientes or, if you’re up for the challenge, choose one of the many hiking trails (the Inca Trail books up quickly).
Temperatures hover around 18°C in Lima and Cusco in August – while in Iquitos and the Amazonian regions you can expect highs of 32°C. Temperatures can plummet during the night in the higher altitude regions, so pack for all weathers.
Find a Peru holiday with a Which? Recommended Provider: , , , , Weather data from Weather2travel.com.source https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/where-to-go-in-august-holiday-antFp5c0WjHB