As part of this month’s Summer at BEX theme, we asked our colleagues to share their favorite places to enjoy the season, whether they’re working remotely or at the office.

From swimming lakes to rooftop bars and ice cream spots, here are some top picks from the BEX team for making the most of summer.

Iris (Hengelo, NL)

Iris recommends Broedplaats Oogst in Hengelo, a small-scale event location where you can bring your own food, relax in hanging chairs, and even barbecue. You’ll find Iris here often,  ordering a cocktail or Viper, her go-to summer drinks.

Iris: “Drinks are available on-site and the atmosphere is super relaxed.”

She also likes all the terraces on Oude Markt in Enschede, Pelle’s in Deurningen and a hidden gem in Hengelo: Lef en Zen for rooftop drinks. The Oude Markt is also a place where we often gather with colleagues for drinks to start the weekend (as you can see in the photo below).

Silke (Moncarapacho, Portugal): 

Silke works remotely from the Algarve in the south of Portugal and she knows the best local spots to enjoy the summer. One spot she recently discovered is the Ria Formosa lagoon near Fuzeta: clear blue water, flamingos (!) and salt lakes, which makes it easier to SUP, swim, kitesurf and kayak. 

Silke: “When it's low tide you can look for your own clams (amêijoas). You just need olive oil, garlic and water to cook them. Top it off with some coriander and tada, your favorite food made by yourself.”

Hidden gem: near her home, there’s a pastry factory that stays open at night: “After a night out in Faro, I grabbed a Bolinha com Pistácio as a late night snack. A big sugar bomb, but 100% worth it.”

She also suggests visiting Olhão and Cacela Velha, especially for the views and the food.

Lisa (Enschede, NL)

Lisa’s ideal summer routine: ice cream from Van der Poel followed by a walk through Volkspark.

Lisa: “Their ice cream is well-known here in Twente and the park is perfect for a stroll. Plus, there are lots of animals wandering around, which always makes it more fun.”

Bonus tips: Achai for bubble tea and ETN for vegan cakes.

Bas (Enschede, NL): 

Bas also lives in Enschede and recommends Het Rutbeek, a large recreational lake just outside Enschede where you can chill at the beach, go swimming, or even try water skiing.

Bas: “It’s a popular spot among ‘Twentenaren’ to escape the city when it’s too hot. Bring some friends and you’ve got the perfect summer day.”

And just like Iris, Bas is a fan of the Oude Markt in Enschede:

“It’s the nice place in the summer, with all the terraces packed and buzzing.”

David (Annecy, France):

David lives in Annecy, a town nestled between a stunning lake and the French Alps. He highly recommends spending summer days outdoors.

David: “The combination of the lake and the mountains creates the perfect balance, you can relax by the water, hike in the surrounding hills, or simply enjoy lunch or drinks with friends while taking in the beautiful lake view.”

His go-to spot for food and drinks? Le Cabanon: a laid-back beach bar right by the lake, perfect for drinks or lunch with friends. 

One hidden gem that many people overlook, according to David, is the Cascade d’Angon: a beautiful waterfall tucked away near the lake. 

Brechtje (Valencia, Spain): 

Brechtje works remotely from Valencia and has three great summer tips for when you’re in the area.

If you want to escape the city heat and crowds this summer, she recommends a walk at Peña Cortada. A beautiful natural area about an hour’s drive from Valencia. 

Brechtje: “I did the hike myself (see photo!) and it’s one of the most stunning spots in the region. Away from the tourist buzz, surrounded by nature and quiet, definitely worth a visit.”

Back in the city, Brechtje loves La Calita, a cozy tapas bar on a charming little square. “You can enjoy classics like croquetas, pan con tomate, and patatas bravas in a relaxed atmosphere with a mix of locals and tourists.”

For something refreshing, she suggests Café de las Horas, where you can try an authentic Agua de Valencia: a true local tradition and must-try if you’re visiting Valencia. It’s a cocktail made with orange juice, cava, gin, and vodka, served in a big jug to share.