Where To Go In August

The skies may be mostly glorious in the UK in August, but that doesn’t mean it’s the summer holiday we deserve. There’s nothing like the thrill of shaking off everyday concerns, touching down in a new destination and anticipating the adventures and indulgences in store.

As a peak month for travel, August is ideal for lively holidays and clement weather in nearby countries. But there’s just as much appeal to veer away from the hotspots and find secluded spaces, and it’s often cheaper too. If you’re gearing up for an August trip and looking for ideas, here are some don’t-miss destinations for inspiration.

Ibiza, Spain

Encircled by bathwater-warm sea that’s tempting under the Spanish sun, Ibiza in August is ideal for two very different types of holiday. Firstly, San Antonio is long-established as the European capital of partying, with superclubs like Ushuaïa, Pacha and Amnesia within dancing distance from each other. This summer, it goes one louder, with a new club, UNVRS, added to the fold. It makes a bold statement with its DJ line up: expect superstar DJ David Guetta each Friday, with Elrow on Saturdays, and John Summit’s Experts Only on Mondays.

But the island is large enough that you needn’t hear one note if it’s nature and silence you’re after. In the rural north, it’s a lush escape with villages that feel paused in time, whitewashed farmhouses, acres of almond groves and quiet beaches that feel like your own well-kept secret.

For those who appreciate balance, a half/half holiday might even be in order!

Kakheti, Georgia

Travellers can experience it for themselves in the area of Kakheti, an easy 90-minute drive from Tbilisi. You’ll visit independently-run vineyards and hear the wonderful stories about their family history and craft. Be sure to see how they ferment the wine in a qvevri: a giant clay pot buried underground. The process hasn’t changed for centuries, and it leads to a natural wine with a distinct flavour – made all the more interesting when you drink it out of a ram’s horn, as is tradition!

Singapore

Singapore’s National Day is 9th August – and the country knows how to commemorate its independence in 1985. Head over for this special date, and you’ll witness arguably the most convivial day of the year. The marching bands and airshows of the National Day Parade take over the centre, and when dusk comes, Marina Bay puts on an expansive fireworks show that draws locals and tourists.

Stay on to explore the rest of the island city-state. A commercial hub in the heart of Southeast Asia, the blend of influences is apparent everywhere, from the enclaves around Singapore’s centre, to the food scene that’s become world famous thanks to its mix of cuisines. The best aspect is it can all be found in one place – while the city is awash with high-end restaurants providing an upscale vibe, its hawker centres (rows upon rows of stands offering their specialities) are the go-to place.

While much of southeast Asia has rains during August, that shouldn’t stop a visit, especially as bad weather is limited to an afternoon downpour that stops just as quickly as it starts. Time these right, and you’ll get a holiday to remember.

Jungfrau, Switzerland

August is most certainly the time to be outside, and where better in Europe to enjoy the great outdoors than the rolling hills of the Swiss Alps. The Jungfrau Region offers summery Alpine views as far as the eye can see – think pretty fields of wildflowers set against the mighty Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau mountains.

It’s a popular stop for hikers thanks to excellent facilities and trails that make it easy to navigate. Plus it’s simple to move around the region, with a train network that is regarded as one of the best in the world thanks to its views and reliability. You’ll pass waterfalls, mountain villages and wilderness, making it a glorious escape.

Buñol, Spain

On the third Wednesday of August in the otherwise quiet and nondescript town of Buñol, Spain’s biggest and most unusual tradition takes place: La Tomatina, better known as the world’s biggest tomato fight. The tradition began in 1945, when two local boys started squabbling in the main square, and escalated the situation when they grabbed the nearest objects – tomatoes at a vegetable stand – to throw at each other. They ended up finding it so fun that they reprised the event the next year.

Who would have known that 80 years later, the food fight is a much-loved event that attracts 20,000 visitors, who take part in the mayhem. Over 100 tons of spoiling tomatoes are carted in for the fight, ensuring there’s a thick layer of tomato sauce on the walls, ground, and everyone’s clothes when it’s all over.

A straightforward hour-long bus ride away from Valencia, the event is so popular that entry is now ticketed – but it’s not too late to grab yours!