Record-breaking heatwaves have swept across parts of Europe, with temperatures topping 40°C in several countries and prompting health warnings, transport disruptions and wildfires.

As Europe swelters through another summer of record heat, travellers looking to move beyond Türkiye's well-known southern resorts can find cooler escapes in the country's highlands, forests and northern coastline.

For those seeking relief, Türkiye offers a diverse range of destinations where mountain breezes, dense forests and Black Sea air provide a welcome respite from the summer heat.

From remote highlands in the northeast to tranquil Aegean islands, here are five destinations that offer a cooler alternative to Europe's sweltering summer hotspots.

Savsat, Artvin

Located in northeastern Türkiye near the Georgian border, Savsat is known for its alpine landscapes, dense forests and traditional highland villages. The district is part of the UNESCO-listed Savsat Biosphere Reserve, recognised for its rich biodiversity and well-preserved ecosystems. Karagol National Park, with its glacial lake surrounded by pine forests, is one of the area's best-known attractions.

Visitors can explore hiking trails, camp by the Karagol lake, or visit nearby highland plateaus such as Sahara Yaylasi. Other attractions include Tibet Church, Satlel Castle and the traditional wooden villages scattered throughout the region.

Bozcaada, Canakkale

Situated in the northeastern Aegean Sea, Bozcaada is Türkiye's third-largest island and has been home to successive civilisations including the Greeks, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans. Today, it is known for its preserved stone architecture, vineyards, historic castle and relatively mild summer climate created by steady Aegean winds.

Visitors can tour Bozcaada Castle, stroll through the island's Turkish and Greek neighbourhoods, or swim at beaches such as Ayazma, Akvaryum and Sulubahce. The island is also popular for cycling, sailing and windsurfing.

Ferries operate year-round from Geyikli in Canakkale province, with crossings taking around 30 minutes. The nearest airports are Canakkale Airport and Balikesir Koca Seyit Airport, both connected to the ferry terminal by road.

Amasra, Bartin

Perched on Türkiye's western Black Sea coast, Amasra is a historic port town with roots stretching back more than 3,000 years. Once part of ancient Paphlagonia, the town later came under Roman, Byzantine, Genoese and Ottoman rule. Its natural harbour and well-preserved old town continue to make it one of the Black Sea's most visited coastal destinations.

Key attractions include Amasra Castle, listed on UNESCO's Tentative World Heritage List, Kemere Bridge, the Amasra Museum and panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Black Sea. Visitors also explore nearby beaches, fishing harbours and Kure Mountains National Park.

Amasra is approximately 17 kilometres from Bartin city centre. The nearest airport is Zonguldak Caycuma Airport, around 55 kilometres away. Regular bus services connect Amasra with Ankara, Istanbul and other major cities.

Camlihemsin, Rize

Located in the Kackar Mountains of Türkiye's eastern Black Sea region, Camlihemsin serves as a gateway to some of the country's best-known highland landscapes. The district is recognised for its traditional Hemsin culture, Ottoman-era stone bridges, mountain rivers and protected natural areas.

Visitors often use Camlihemsin as a base for excursions to Ayder Plateau, Kackar Mountains National Park and the Firtina Valley. Activities include hiking, rafting, ziplining, photography and visits to historic sites such as Zilkale and the Palovit Waterfall.

Camlihemsin lies around 50 kilometres from Rize city centre. The nearest airport is Artvin-Rize Airport, approximately 30 kilometres away, with Trabzon Airport located about 150 kilometres to the west. The district is accessible via the Black Sea Coastal Highway.

Abant, Bolu

Lake Abant and its surrounding nature park are among Türkiye's best-known forest retreats. Formed by a landslide thousands of years ago, the freshwater lake sits at an altitude of about 1,350 metres and is surrounded by pine, fir and beech forests. The area has long been a popular destination for domestic tourism throughout all four seasons.

Visitors can walk or cycle around the lake, ride horses, picnic, photograph wildlife or explore nearby attractions including Yedigoller National Park and Golcuk Nature Park.

Abant is approximately 35 kilometres southwest of Bolu city centre and around three hours by road from both Istanbul and Ankara.