Standing at baggage claim sunburn-free is rare for me (Natalie Wilson, senior travel writer), a shamefully frivolous applier of SPF on my final day away. Yet a trip to one of Sweden's some 267,000 islands somehow satisfied my wanderlust – minus the singed shoulders.

Having previously shivered at the idea of a peak season "coolcation", Vrångö, a dot on the Gothenburg archipelago, surprised me with all the best elements of a summer getaway – boat trips, sea swims and al fresco seafood dinners – to give Med holiday heavyweights a run for their money. Alas, travellers shouldn't turn their nose up at Scandinavian temperatures teasing the low 20Cs come August.

Danish capital Copenhagen always keeps things cool, its harbourside summer scene well on the way to transcending its Christmas markets, while the rejuvenating powers of Norway's wilderness welcome travellers for a dip in glacial waters.

Scandinavia – officially Denmark, Norway, and Sweden, but for this newsletter, featured alongside regional friends Finland, Iceland and the Faroe Islands – has no shortage of temperate alternatives to southern Europe's sweating summer hotspots. From adventures among off-grid fjords to stewing in sauna culture, we've gathered our top picks of trips to take in Scandinavia to inspire your next getaway.

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Lofoten with ease

Norway has invested much of its oil wealth in infrastructure. The string of beautiful Lofoten Islands in the Arctic north are connected by the E10 highway through a string of tunnels and bridges. Reaching Henningsvaer, pictured, is easy by bus or rental car.

Dane gain

Denmark reaches a scenic conclusion at Skagen, its northernmost point, where the Kattegat and Skagerrak converge on a sliver of sand. The location inspired the Skagen school of artists, whose works are on show in the town as well as in Copenhagen.

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INSPIRATION

Slow down in Sweden

On this lesser-trodden archipelago you'll find seaweed, saunas and some of the best cinnamon buns in the country.

STAY

Affordable Copenhagen

In a city not known for low prices, our expert has pulled together 11 excellent hotels that won't break the bank.

Copenhagen is a small city and exploring it on foot costs nothing; you can also swim in the harbour swimming pools and walk up Copenhill's crazy ski slope hiking route for free. 

Laura Hall

Denmark destination expert

DISCOVER 

Set sail through Norway

The best cruises through the Norwegian fjords, with excursions to historic villages, waterfalls and mountains.

EXPLORE

A culinary capital

Thought Icelandic cuisine meant fermented shark and dried fish? Reykjavik suggests diners think again.

TRAVELSMART WEEKLY

Watch now: Embrace your wanderlust with The Independent's expert travel series

Scandi Center Parcs brought calm into our family holiday

Five days in the beautifully isolated Faroe Islands

10 of the most beautiful towns and cities to visit in Denmark

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Score up to 60% off on travel pillows, flasks, sleep masks and more – Trtl's big travel sale is now on!

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Best camping chairs for festivals, picnics and more

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