Unexpected Destination Tops 2026 Travel Trends

Cool climates redefine travel choices

Travel forecasts for 2026 reveal a surprising shift in global preferences. According to the Pinterest Predicts 2026 report, travelers are increasingly choosing cooler destinations over traditional sun-and-beach holidays. This growing movement, known as coolcation, reflects a desire for comfort, scenery, and atmospheric experiences amid rising global temperatures.

The Scottish Highlands take the spotlight

The Scottish Highlands have become one of the most prominent symbols of this trend. Pinterest reports a 465 percent surge in searches related to Highlands aesthetics, driven by demand for misty mountains, ancient castles, standing stones, and dramatic landscapes. With average summer temperatures around 17 degrees Celsius, the region offers a refreshing alternative to overheated destinations.

Film and television shaping travel dreams

The popularity of Scotland is closely tied to set-jetting, a trend fueled by film and television. Series such as Outlander have played a major role in romanticizing the Highlands, inspiring travelers to seek out filming locations and landscapes associated with epic storytelling. New visitor infrastructure, including developments near the Calanais Standing Stones, further supports this surge in interest.

The rise of romantasy-inspired travel

Alongside coolcation, romantasy retreats are gaining momentum. This trend blends romance and fantasy, drawing travelers to enchanted castles, mystical forests, and medieval settings. Research indicates strong interest in destinations inspired by fictional worlds, reinforcing the appeal of moody, story-driven travel experiences.

A global expansion of cool travel

While Scotland leads the narrative, coolcation is expanding worldwide. Destinations such as Norway, Alaska, Canada, and Tasmania are seeing increased demand. Even traditionally warm countries are repositioning colder seasons and regions as premium travel experiences through festivals, wellness offerings, and cultural events.

Sport-driven travel on the rise

Another parallel trend identified in 2026 forecasts is the growth of sports tourism. Major events such as the Winter Olympics and the FIFA World Cup are increasingly shaping travel decisions, while adventure-based activities add momentum to destinations that combine climate, infrastructure, and spectacle.

A fundamental shift in travel motivation

The emerging trends of 2026 indicate a broader transformation in traveler behavior. Rather than chasing predictable weather and mass tourism, travelers are prioritizing emotional resonance, visual atmosphere, and climate comfort. Cool destinations are no longer niche options but central players in the future of global travel.

As International Investment experts note, the rise of coolcation signals a deeper realignment in tourism economics, where sustainability, climate adaptability, and cultural storytelling increasingly define destination competitiveness.