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It’s the Med, but not as you know it

By Val Garibotti on 9th July, 2024

It’s the Mediterranean, but not as you know it.

If the scorching heat of the Mediterranean summer has put you off a mid-year visit, then you should head to the continent this Autumn instead.

Think: mild weather, fewer tourists, gorgeous landscapes bathed in golden hues, harvest season – and residually warm water, after a summer of sunshine.

Never mind New England in the fall, the Slovenian Alps are right on the doorstep…

Go hiking in picture perfect Slovenia, treat yourself to luxury chartered yacht in Greece, dive into the warm waters of Turkey or Croatia, or enjoy the last of the Atlantic sunshine in Morocco and Madeira.

Luxury Sailing in Greece

I normally holiday in Greece in the quieter months…after all my summer is spent getting you to Greece!

Last October was particularly special and cemented why I love The Ionian in the Autumn. I attended a wedding on the island of Meganissi in the South Ionian…and you’ve guessed it; we all arrived in style onboard yachts.

The weather couldn’t have been more perfect. There was enough breeze for some gentle sailing but not enough that my “tea” (G&T) spilled, days filled with sunshine and only two overnight rain showers.

Don’t forget there is a school holiday in October to either take advantage of or avoid!

Enjoy lower season prices, quieter bays and cooler temperatures in the beautiful Ionian this October.

 

Morocco

Experience the magic of Morocco this autumn! Particularly during September and October, Morocco enjoys pleasant temperatures, providing an ideal backdrop for outdoor adventures and urban explorations. It’s harvest season, with vibrant markets brimming with fresh fruits, olives, and dates, perfect for food enthusiasts to savor local culinary delights.

Wander through the bustling souks of Marrakech, marvel at the ancient beauty of Fes, and enjoy the breathtaking Sahara Desert under the mild autumn sun. Moroccan cities pulsate with cultural festivals and events, such as the renowned International Film Festival in Marrakech. Autumn in Morocco offers an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and comfort. Don’t miss out on this enchanting season!

This is the Mediterranean but not as you know it.  Morocco is the southern part of the Gibraltar Strait – just south of Spain!

 

Land of eternal spring, this island is having a renaissance and should not be overlooked

Madeira

Autumn is an ideal time to visit Madeira, offering pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and an intimate experience of the island’s natural beauty. The climate strikes a perfect balance with sunny days, occasional rain showers, and warm seas, making it perfect for both relaxation and adventure. Madeira’s landscapes are lush and vibrant, and the hiking trails in the Laurisilva forest or along the coastal cliffs are less crowded, allowing for serene exploration.  It’s the Mediterranean, but not as you know it – Madeira is known as the Hawai’i of Europe.

Mild temperatures make outdoor activities comfortable, whether you’re exploring Funchal’s charming streets or enjoying a scenic drive through the countryside. Additionally, Autumn brings local cultural events and festivals, adding a unique touch to your visit. The island’s rich culinary scene, featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes, is even more enjoyable without the summer crowds. Overall, Autumn combines favorable weather, tranquility, and cultural richness, making it an ideal time to discover Madeira.

 

Discover the Magic of Autumn in Croatia

Experience the magic of Croatia in autumn, where stunning landscapes and vibrant culture come alive. Stroll through Dubrovnik and Split’s historic streets without summer crowds, exploring UNESCO World Heritage sites intimately. Savor the Istrian truffle season and enjoy grape harvest festivals celebrating Croatia’s renowned wines.

The mild temperatures and golden foliage provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures like hiking in Plitvice Lakes National Park and sailing along the tranquil Adriatic coast. Autumn in Croatia also features unique events like the Zagreb Film Festival and Dubrovnik Good Food Festival.

Travel to Croatia in autumn for lower prices, authentic encounters, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it the ideal escape from the summer hustle.

Book your tailor-made Croatian getaway today and discover why autumn is the best time to visit this enchanting destination..

 

Embrace the beauty of Autumn in Slovenia

Autumn in Slovenia is perfect for travellers seeking unique holiday inspiration. September and October offer mild weather, making outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and kayaking more enjoyable. Explore Triglav National Park’s vibrant foliage, the Julian Alps’ clear skies, and the emerald-green Soča River for kayaking and fishing.

Enjoy fewer crowds at Lake Bled and the Postojna and Škocjan Caves, providing peaceful exploration. Autumn also brings harvest festivals and food events, ideal for family holidays or cultural experiences. With fewer tourists, stunning scenery, and perfect weather, Slovenia offers the best autumn destinations for tailor-made holidays.

Book your magical tailor-made holiday to Slovenia today and experience the beauty and adventure this season offers.

 

Petani Bay Kefalonia

Greece

With the kids firmly back at school, cheaper flights and still balmy weather, Kefalonia is a wonderful Greek island to visit in September, and just a 3 hour hop from the UK.

Discover the incredible seascapes from the adult-only Petani Bay hotel on the Lixouri peninsula before heading north to the upmarket harbour town of Fiskardo, a post-card perfect spot with multi-coloured houses and superb restaurants dotted along the water’s edge.

Although we can of course arrange transfers over the island, we highly recommend hiring a car, and hitting the road to discover some of the charming villages and stunning beaches the island has to offer.

Try out our Adult-only Kefalonia itinerary to explore the beauty of this enchanting island, without the crowds of the summer holidays.

 

Turkey

With a wonderfully long summer season running right through until the end of October, Turkey’s remarkable Turquoise Coast is a tempting choice for blast of late summer sun.

Our South-West Coast beach hop itinerary takes you from sunny Bodrum down the coastline south to the unspoilt Bozburun Peninsula, to the famous lagoon at Ölüdeniz ending up in the charming town of Kalkan, with its pretty, cobbled backstreets, and array of first-class restaurants to sample.

You will find the sea incredibly warm from the summer months, the towns and major sights quieter, and the friendly locals still eager to please despite the summer season winding down at the end of the month.

As with all Fleewinter itineraries, they are all personalised and can be tweaked to suit your needs, so whether you want to simply fly and flop in the autumn sunshine or see some of Turkey’s historical and archaeological sites, October is a fabulous month to visit.

 


Written by Val Garibotti

Top Travel Tip

“Travel is about discovery and digging under the surface of a country. Take your time, go off the beaten track and plan ahead if you can.”

– Valeria Garibotti – Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Ecuador & Galapagos, and Uruguay expert

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