As autumn settles over the UK, many of us will start to dream of sunlit escapes where the days are warm, the sea inviting and the evening can be spent dining al fresco with a scintillating backdrop.
For those who would prefer to avoid the long haul, the good news is that you don't need to travel far for a little sunshine. There are plenty of destinations much closer to home that rank among the warmest places in Europe in October, where you can bank on reliable sunshine and the kind of luxury experiences that Elegant Resorts is synonymous with.
We challenged our luxury travel specialists to handpick 5 stunning destinations which perfectly combine autumn warmth with cultural richness and sophisticated resorts From the volcanic landscapes of the Canary Islands to the historical treasures of Cyprus, these are the 5 warmest places in Europe in October to visit for your tailor made autumn escape:
1. The Canary Islands
Often described as the "Islands of Eternal Spring", the Canary Islands enjoy warm and sunny weather conditions all year round. Whatsmore, October is one of the best months to visit thanks to its amenable daytime temperatures around the mid-20 degrees mark and plentiful hours of daylight each day.
The archipelago offers a diverse range of experiences. On Lanzarote, the lunar-esque landscapes of Timanfaya National Park contrast beautifully with its black sand beaches and whitewashed villages. Gran Canaria is renowned for its golden dunes at Maspalomas and its sophisticated resorts, while Fuerteventura offers endless beaches and watersports, particularly for those who enjoy sailing and Windsurfing.
Elegant Resorts works with some of the most refined and exclusive hotels in The Canary Islands where guests can indulge in world-class spas, dine under the stars and enjoy private excursions into the volcanic landscapes or along the coast. For those seeking the warmest places in Europe in October, the Canaries remains a timeless favourite with sophisticated travellers.
2. Malta
Malta is a small island nation with a big personality and is also one of the warmest places in Europe in October to visit with average daytime temperatures hovering around the mid 20 degrees mark. Its appeal lies in the seamless mix of history, culture and coastline, all of which can be enjoyed under near-constant Mediterranean sunshine.
The capital city of Malta, Valletta, is a UNESCO World Heritage city which is filled with golden limestone streets, Baroque architecture, and an incredible restaurant scene. For culture seekers, the island's 7,000 years of history are visible in prehistoric temples, medieval forts, and the legacy of the Knights of St. John. Those who prefer to spend their days by the water meanwhile will be able to take advantage of Malta's abundance of beaches and coves, many of which offer crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming well into the autumn.
Elegant Resorts clients often enjoy private yacht charters which explore the Blue Lagoon on the neighbouring island of Comino or cultural tours led by expert guides through Valletta and Mdina. Luxury resorts in Malta combine contemporary elegance with warm hospitality, making this island an ideal choice for couples or families looking for a sun drenched October break with a cultural twist.
3. Cyprus
Cyprus is not only one of the warmest places in Europe in October, it's also one of the most culturally fascinating. With average temperatures around 27 degrees and plenty of sunshine, the island is perfect for those looking to combine relaxation with exploration.
The island's rich history is evident pretty much everywhere you go, from the UNESCO listed mosaics of Paphos to the ancient ruins of Kourion. When you book a tailor made holiday in Cyprus with Elegant Resorts, our luxury travel specialists can help to arrange private guided tours of the archaeological sites, wine tasting sessions in the Troodos Mountains and sailing excursions along the scenic Arkamas Peninsula.
Those who prefer a slower pace of life may prefer relaxing days spent lounging on the long sandy beaches or in some of the spa resorts in Cyprus which are amongst the very best in the Mediterranean. With the summer crowds reduced but the sun still shining brightly overhead, there really isn't a better time of year to book a holiday in Cyprus than October.
4. The Algarve
The Algarve is another region renowned for its spectacular coastline and October remains one of the best months to visit. You can expect temperatures of roughly 23 degrees during the day in this part of Portugal, which when combined with the much reduced tourist numbers, makes it one of the best warm places to visit in Europe in October.
Golden cliffs frame pristine beaches, while charming fishing villages and bustling marinas provide plenty of opportunities for exploration. Golf enthusiasts are in luck too, as there are plenty of world-class golf courses to choose from against dramatic ocean backdrops. As for food lovers, they can enjoy freshly caught seafood and Michelin star dining experiences
The standards of hospitality in the hotels and villas in the Algarve are easily a match for the restaurants, where privacy and personalised services comes as standard. Whether you take a private catamaran cruise along the coast, explore the Lago markets or soak up the autumn sun by the pool, the Algarve provides an effortless balance of relaxation and culture.
5. Crete
A final nomination in our list of the warmest places in Europe in October is the Greek Island of Crete. It is the perfect holiday destination for those seeking culture, history and natural beauty.
The island's mythology is legendary - this is the land of the Minotaur and the ancient Minoan civilisation. Visitors can explore the palace of Knossos, meander through Venetian harbours in Chania or hike the scenic Samaria Gorge. If you prefer to relax, Crete also provides some of Greece's most luxurious beachfront resorts. This is particularly true in Elounda, where there are a range of exceptional hotels to choose from offering guests world class spas, infinity pools and fine dining experiences overlooking Mirabello Bay.
October is a great time of year to holiday in Crete as the summer crowds have thinned out but the sea is still warm enough for swimming. For families, couples or groups of friends, a tailor made holiday in Crete ensures both cultural diversity and leisurely indulgence by the bucket load.
Start Planning Your October Escape Today
As the UK grows cooler and the evenings shorter, the promise of warm sunshine and light nights just a short flight away becomes irresistible. The Canary Islands, Tenerife, Cyprus, the Algarve and Crete are not only among the warmest places in Europe in October, they are also some of the rewarding holiday destinations for luxury travellers.
Our luxury travel specialists have handpicked these 5 destinations on account of the unique features that they offer. Whether it is volcanic landscapes, ancient history, dramatic coastal vistas or world class cuisine - and each is perfectly suited to a tailor made holiday with Elegant Resorts.
Get in touch with our luxury travel specialists to start planning your October escape today. We'll use our first hand experience in the region to help you organise a tailor made getaway which is everything you have been dreaming of and more.