Where to go in August

In August, Slovenia’s Alpine regions paint a rosy-cheeked picture of frolicking in spring-fed lakes, tramping along flower-specked trails, picnicking by waterfalls… Or going full via ferrata for a less relaxing time. But deep breaths of mountain air and recalibrating are what it's all about, with on-high hotels helping in spa-spoiling, sauna-lazing style. Combine a trip with northern Italy for yet more indulgence. 

Astrotourists, launch off to Namibia, for August skies brilliant with stars and temperatures ideal for roving lunar-like desert landscapes (aside from some gusty days). Spot white rhinos, zebra, maybe a shy cheetah on drives and at wildlife sanctuaries, and get to know the locals too, with bushmen tales over braais at remote stays – all the more potent with Heroes’ Day on the 26th.

Once Europe’s best-kept secret (before the super-yachts found out), Montenegro is most famous for its curving, fjord-like Bay of Kotor in the Adriatic Sea. The bijou Balkan nation is warm and sunny for much of May to October, with peak temperatures arriving in July and August, at which point it’s time to cool off in the mountains on summer hikes with cloud-free skies while everyone else is at the beach.

Whatever New England’s weather, you’ll be on the look-out for lobster, but especially along Maine’s balmy coast come August, where you’ll be rewarded with Kennebunkport’s lemon-spritzed rolls and a week-long Rockland festival serving all things crustacean. Work your sea legs spotting whales or take to Acadia National Park’s trails, coloured with the state’s in-season blueberries.

Come to South Tyrol in August for emerald Alpine lakes, saw-toothed Dolomites, quaint cobbled towns and scenic biking and hiking trails. But stay for the region’s more offbeat summer charms: watching mediaeval-style battles on horseback at the South Tyrolean Knights Festival, playing dress-up at Val Gardena’s annual folk parade, or getting schnapps-happy at one of the region’s cattle drives.

Bali is at its ebullient, boisterous best in August, the peak of the dry season. Cloudless days, cooler nights and shaka-inducing swells set Uluwatu abuzz – so grab a Gojek (moto taxi) and flit from breakfast to beach club to kecak dance. For peace, bunk down on the viridescent east coast or hop over to neighbour Nusa Penida, where scuba brings you face to face with manta rays and monstrous mola mola.