Escape Summer Heat

If the 45-degree summer temperatures in Dubai aren't for you, perhaps you're looking to chill out this summer and escape the heat.

Winter sports breaks aren't just for the winter season - in fact there are some great destinations you can head for this summer where you can keep your cool and stay active - we check out the top spots to head to.

Kaprun, Austria

Set in the Hohe Tauern National park, Kaprun is one of Austria's premier destinations for an active holiday. There's a modern spa with excellent sports and leisure facilities and plenty of shops and cafes or why not book an excursion to Salzburg or the Krimml Waterfalls?

Rock climbing, white water rafting and horse rising are all available in the area, but the main attraction is skiing and snowboarding 365 days a year on 138km of slopes that are suitable for beginners and professionals alike.

Zermatt, Switzerland

Surrounded by three of the highest mountains in Europe, Zermatt is a charming resort filled with cafes and boutiques.

The resort attracts winter sports and walking enthusiasts throughout the year, and boasts an excellent transport network of mountain railways and cable cars.

Invest in a Swiss Pass and visit nearby Bern, just over 2 hours away by rail. You can enjoy skiing on 360km of piste, open 365 days a year, with pistes available for all skill levels and a popular ski school available (booking usually required).

Mayrhofen, Austria

Mayrhofen is one of the most popular and prettiest resorts in the Tirol and is home to regular festivals and lively nightlife, with a selection of bars and cafes. The nearby Hinterlux Glacier and the Zillertal Alps offer skiing throughout the year, with 134km or runs and 53 lifts - most runs are between 1650, and 2500m, so ideal for intermediate skiers.

Mayrhofen is also home to the steepest run in Austria - the Harakiri. Cool off with a visit to one of these resorts this summer, but don't forget your cheap winter sports travel insurance no matter which resort you head to for summer snow this year. It might not be winter but anything could happen on your winter sports holiday, particularly if it's your first time skiing or snowboarding, so it's best to be protected.