Six low-pollen destinations around the world for a sneeze free vacation
Booking.com, the global leader in connecting travellers with the widest choice of incredible places to stay, has delved into its more than 28 million listings in more than 147,000 destinations across the globe to reveal six destinations around the world to help travellers have a sneeze free vacation. Avoid a runny nose and itchy eyes and escape your seasonal allergies this summer, with destinations ranging from year-round warm climates with a low-pollen count, to fresh alpine air perfect for clearing your sinuses, desert destinations with few flowers and fauna, to muddy moorlands.
Gran Canaria, Spain
Venture to the beautiful island of Gran Canaria, located in the Canary Islands, for a year-round warm climate and sunshine. Travellers who suffer from hay fever can embrace this sneeze-free haven, as the island has a very low pollen count due to the hot weather year round that means its tropical plants do not have pollen cycles and are always in bloom.
Where to stay: Book a stay at B´SLOW San Agustín for an aparthotel with picturesque views of the nearby Las Burras Beach and feel at home with the fully equipped kitchen, seating area, private bathroom and terrace. After a day of sunning yourself at the nearby beach, cool off with a refreshing dip in your very own private outdoor pool.
Coronet Peak, New Zealand
Just as rainy weather can reduce the pollen count by washing pollen from the air, so can snow. For travellers seeking a breath of fresh air, escape to Coronet Peak, New Zealand (where they are currently entering their winter) and hit the slopes for some refreshing skiing.
Where to stay: The Canyons B&B boasts sweeping views of the surrounding mountains, Shotover River and Coronet Peak. This secluded home away from home provides much needed respite and comfort from a day on the slopes, with spacious rooms and a private outdoor patio.
Colorado Springs, USA
Plan your next vacation to Colorado Springs for some much-needed relief from your allergies. In the summer months and autumn months (particularly July and October), the dry desert-like surroundings contain few plants, allowing you to clear your head and provide a break to your itchy eyes. Breathe in the crisp mountain air as you embark on a hike and take in popular sites and surroundings such as Garden of the Gods, Pikes Peak and the Broadmoor Seven Falls.
Where to stay: Featuring stunning views of Cheyenne Mountain, Cheyenne Mountain Resort Colorado Springs, A Dolce Resort boasts five swimming pools, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, a 25-acre lake for sailing and a full-service spa. After a day of hiking, enjoy a delicious meal at the Mountain View Restaurant and finish the evening with a tasty cocktail at the Elevations Lounge.
Scotland, UK
The Scottish Highlands can provide a retreat for travellers suffering from hay fever due to the heavy rainfall, short pollen season and minimal trees. The surrounding moorlands and mountain terrain also provide respite as the vegetation is relatively free of allergens.
Where to stay: Set in Portree is the Air an Oir - Skye Self Catering holiday home with a terrace that offers stunning sea views and a revitalizing breeze of salty fresh air. During your stay visit the quaint Portree Harbour and marvel at the famed rugged landscapes with a hike across Lealt Falls.
Merzouga, Morocco
Located in the Sahara Desert is the small town of Merzouga, which provides a welcomed break for hay fever sufferers with the hot climate year-round and little vegetation. Take in the surrounding majestic sand dunes with a camel trek or go flamingo spotting at the Lake of Merzouga.
Where to stay: Switch up your holiday home with a luxury tent stay at the Luxury Camp Berber Experience. Boasting a kitchen, dining area and a private bathroom and sample a variety of authentic Moroccan dishes at the onsite restaurant; guests will not be short of home comforts.
Whistler, Canada
Breathe in the fresh alpine air with a trip to Whistler, British Columbia the perfect retreat for skiing and snowboarding enthusiasts, home to Whistler Blackcombe which is one of the largest ski resorts in North America. Whistler Mountain typically stays open for spring skiing and snowboarding until late May. If you’re looking to swap your snow boots for hiking boots, popular hiking trails include Lakeside Park, Cheakamus Lake and the Ancient Cedars Trail.
Where to stay: Whistler Lodge Hostel offers guests affordable accommodation in an ideal location, just a short drive from the base of Creekside. Swap stories with fellow travelers as you prepare home cooked meals in the shared kitchen. Or soothe away any aches or pains from an active day inside the onsite sauna.