The TOP 6 Hot Holidays to book in Autumn

If you’re not quite ready to say goodbye to summer, autumn is one of the best times of year to travel. Across southern Europe, temperatures remain warm well into September and October, while further afield, some of the world’s best winter-sun destinations are entering their prime season.

From Mediterranean islands to the Middle East, these are six of the best hot holiday destinations to visit this Autumn.

CYPRUS

Cyprus is one of the safest bets for late-season sunshine without travelling too far from the UK. September still feels very much like summer, with hot days and warm sea temperatures, while October brings slightly cooler conditions that make exploring the island much more comfortable.

Paphos combines beaches and historic sites with easy access to the west coast, while Limassol is better suited to those looking for restaurants, nightlife and contemporary beachfront hotels. For a quieter stay, head towards the Akamas Peninsula and the more secluded northwest coast. Great places to stay include: Anassa, AMARA, Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa.

MALLORCA

Mallorca takes on a different feel once the height of summer has passed. September remains warm enough for days at the beach and long lunches by the sea, while October is ideal for exploring Palma, Deià and the villages of the Tramuntana mountains.

For a romantic escape, base yourself around Deià and the northwest coast. Palma works well for a long weekend combining restaurants, shopping and sightseeing, while the quieter southeast is home to hidden coves and some of the island’s most beautiful countryside. For great places to stay check The Inside List: Mallorca.

CRETE

Sitting further south than many of Greece’s best-known islands, Crete is one of the strongest choices for a Greek escape later in the season. September remains hot and sunny, while the first half of October can still bring temperatures comfortably into the mid-20s.

The island is large enough to suit several different types of trip. Stay around Chania for its Venetian harbour, restaurants and easy access to western Crete, or head towards Elounda for luxury resorts and a more relaxing beach break. Great places to stay include: Acro Suites, Minos Beach Art Hotel and Domes of Elounda.

MARRAKECH

Once the intense heat of summer begins to ease, Marrakech enters one of its best seasons. Autumn days are warm and sunny, while cooler mornings and evenings make wandering through the medina, visiting the city’s gardens and spending time outdoors far more enjoyable.

Stay within the medina for atmospheric riads and easy access to the souks, or choose the Palmeraie for larger resorts, gardens and pools. With flights from the UK taking around four hours, Marrakech is also one of the easiest options for a shorter autumn escape. Great places to stay include: Royal Mansour Marrakech, La Mamounia and El Fenn.

DUBAI

For guaranteed sunshine, Dubai is difficult to beat. October is still seriously hot, with temperatures regularly above 30°C, while November brings some of the best weather of the year as the city’s outdoor restaurants, terraces and beach clubs come back into their own.

Choose Jumeirah for a beachfront stay close to many of the city’s restaurants, Downtown for Burj Khalifa views and easy access to the city, or Palm Jumeirah for a resort-focused escape. For great places to stay check The Inside List: Dubai.

MAURITIUS

If you’re ready to swap Europe for somewhere more tropical, Mauritius is an excellent choice for Autumn. September marks the end of the island’s cooler, drier winter, before temperatures gradually rise through October and November. White-sand beaches might be the main draw, but there’s much more to the island than its resorts. Spend time exploring waterfalls, tropical forests and mountain landscapes, visit local markets or head out onto the water for snorkelling, diving and boat trips.

The west coast is particularly appealing for its calmer conditions and sunsets, while Le Morne combines one of the island’s most beautiful stretches of coastline with its dramatic mountain backdrop. Great places to stay include: One&Only Le Saint Géran, Four Seasons Resort Mauritius at Anahita and  LUX* Le Morne.