Four destinations that stay calm, affordable, and quietly beautiful
If you’re hoping to travel in summer 2026 without crowds, you’re not alone. Many travellers want quiet holidays and peaceful destinations. The good news is that there are still places where you can enjoy warm weather, affordable stays and a slower pace from June to September.
June 2026 – The Azores
The Azores are known as a quiet summer destination. Particularly for travellers who love nature and wide‑open landscapes. June is a great month to visit because it sits just before the main holiday rush. You can enjoy volcanic lakes, green hills, thermal pools, and peaceful coastal towns without the usual summer crowds.
Why visit the Azores in June
- Lower prices than mainland Portugal
- Cooler temperatures that make walking comfortable
- Great for hiking, whale watching, and outdoor adventures
Weather Mild and changeable, usually between 20 and 25°C.
Average hotel cost £80 to £120 per night.
Travel documents UK travellers need a valid passport that meets EU entry rules. No visa is required for short stays.
July 2026 – Vis, Croatia
Vis is known as one of Croatia’s quietest islands. It’s a wonderful choice for travellers who want peaceful beaches and a slower pace. It’s a strong change to busy spots like Hvar or Dubrovnik. July brings warm seas, sunny days, and a relaxed island atmosphere that feels far removed from the crowds on the mainland.
Why visit Vis in July
- Fewer cruise ships and large tour groups
- Traditional villages with simple, relaxed dining
- Clear water, quiet coves, and calm beaches
Weather Hot and dry, usually 25 to 32°C, with warm sea temperatures.
Average hotel cost £70 to £110 per night.
Travel documents Passport required. No visa needed for short visits.
August 2026 – Shetland Islands
If you prefer cool summer weather and wide‑open spaces, the Shetland Islands are ideal. They offer a calm alternative to crowded UK resorts and busy European cities. Instead of heatwaves and queues, you’ll find long daylight hours, wildlife, and coastal scenery.
Why visit Shetland in August
- No international travel stress
- Big skies, quiet roads, and peaceful landscapes
- Accommodation costs can be lower than in some UK hotspots. Weather Fresh and breezy, usually 14 to 18°C.
Average hotel cost £60 to £100 per night.
Travel documents Domestic UK travel only.
September 2026 – Asturias, Spain
Asturias is one of Spain’s most underrated regions, and September is the perfect time to visit. The beaches are quieter, the sea is warm, and prices drop after the peak season. It’s a good option for travellers who want late summer sunshine without the crowds found in southern Spain.
Why visit Asturias in September
- Fewer tourists and a relaxed coastal feel
- Excellent food, green scenery, and charming towns
- Comfortable temperatures for walking and exploring
Weather Usually 22 to 26°C.
Average hotel cost £65 to £100 per night.
Travel documents Passport required. No visa needed for short stays.
Travel Insurance Essentials for Summer 2026
Even when travelling off‑peak, travel insurance is important. Look for a policy that covers:
- Medical care
- Cancellations
- Delays
- Island travel; and
- Pre‑existing conditions. ERGO will consider every pre-existing medical condition, please check the policy terms and conditions before you purchase.
Keep emergency contact details with you and contact your insurer straight away if something goes wrong.
Quiet travel doesn’t mean taking risks. With a little planning, your summer can stay calm from start to finish.
When you buy travel insurance, you will be asked whether you have any pre-existing conditions. If you do, you will be asked to share details about your current health and medical history. This is called a medical declaration.
Some travel providers ask about a 2- or 5- year declaration period. Understanding what counts and over what period you need to declare, can feel confusing. Our aim is to make this simple, clear, and stress‑free. We want you to feel confident that your cover is right for you. We also want you to feel informed so you can make the right choice.
What is a pre‑existing medical condition?
A pre‑existing medical condition is any health issue you had before you bought your policy. This can be an illness, injury, symptom, or medical advice you were given. If you take or have taken medicine, or if you have had tests or treatment, this may also count. Insurers ask for this information so they can understand your needs and offer the right level of cover.
Many people are unsure what “treatment” or “medical attention” includes.
Insurers may consider the following examples as part of your medical history:
- Seeing a doctor
- Talking to a pharmacist about symptoms or a diagnosed medical condition
- A phone call with a doctor
- Using an online or web‑chat service with a medical professional
- Attending physiotherapy, chiropractic care, or acupuncture
Further examples of things insurers may ask about as part of your medical history include:
- Regular checks for asthma or diabetes even when stable
- High blood pressure, even if you no longer take medicine
- Symptoms you have spoken about with a medical professional
- Monitoring of recent infections or treatments
- Any condition linked to a recent medical insurance claim
- Weight‑management injections
- HRT or menopause care
- Hearing concerns
Examples of conditions that insurers may ask you to declare:
- Heart conditions
- Strokes
- Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)
- Migraines
- Urinary symptoms including infections or flow issues
- Anxiety or depression
- ADHD
- Bone or joint issues, such as arthritis or long‑term knee or back pain
- Any cancer
- All bowel conditions
This list is not complete, but it gives a sense of the types of conditions that may need to be declared.
Why accurate declarations matter
Sharing clear and accurate information helps protect you if you need to make a claim. If something important is missing, it may affect how a claim is assessed. Declaring your conditions helps ensure your policy reflects your needs. Declaring a condition does not automatically change the premium. It ensures cover is accurate. Our goal is to support you in choosing the right cover and to give you peace of mind for your trip.
How to check your medical history
Before you complete your declaration, it can help to look at what is recorded about your health. You can:
- Ask your GP surgery what is noted on your record
- Log in to your NHS account to view your history online
- Talk to family members who may recall things you have forgotten
Having the right information means your declaration is complete and your cover is accurate.
If you are unsure about anything, we are here to help. You can call us on 01403 788 513.