Where to go for October Half Term Holidays

Travelling at October Half Term has a number of advantages. The heat across Europe has subsided from the August peak. Many of Europe’s more southerly destinations are still enjoying beautifully warm, sunny days. This makes being outside and exploring the locality a much more inviting experience, especially if you are travelling with children. Exploring a new place with kids in tow in the blazing heat of high summer can be more of an endurance sport than a pleasurable experience. 

The pleasantly warm days of October, with temperatures in the 20s, means being outside is actually a joy, whether you are wandering the backstreets of a hilltop village in Tuscany, cycling amongst vineyards, or dining al-fresco in a Greek taverna. 

The sea temperatures have been rising all summer and in October are just below their peak. For example, the average sea temperature in Greece in October is around 22 degrees, the same temperature as in June. This is only 3 degrees down from the peak of 25 degrees in August, so still great for swimming. 

If, like me, you prefer exploring a new destination when the crowds have subsided, then travelling in October is a joy. And with less demand, brings lower prices. The weekly rental prices of villas in October are substantially lower than during the peak months of July and August. 

So if you are wondering where to go next October half-term break, here’s my pick of suggestions. 

Idea No. 1 – Crete, Greece

In October, Crete sees average daily high temperatures of 24 degrees, so it’s usually warm enough to sit by the pool or on the beach. There may be the odd rain shower but these are mainly in the mountains and they tend to pass quickly. The sea is still fairly warm too.

October is the ideal month to explore the dramatic mountains of Crete. In peak summer the idea of hiking in mountains is perhaps a bit much, but in October it’s perfect. There are gorges and waterfalls to explore, as well as countless beautiful villages to discover. 

Where to stay: Royal Spa Pool Villa, Elounda, Crete

The perfect luxury hideout for your stay in Crete. The elevated position gives breath-taking views of the sea and guests can enjoy all of the services of the hotel, but with the benefits and privacy of a private villa with your own pool. 

See all our luxury villas in Crete, Greece

Idea No. 2 – Puglia, Italy

Puglia, in the very south of Italy, is delightful in October. The daily max temperature is normally around 21 degrees with an average of 6 hours of sunshine per day. It is also fairly dry so you can enjoy the great outdoors, perfect for walking and cycling. 

Maybe spend the day at the beach at the Gargano National Park or explore one of the many historic villages with their narrow windy streets and fascinating architecture.

Where to stay: The Trulli, Puglia, Italy

A unique villa formed from 11 ‘trulli’ – the iconic white conical-shaped houses that are characteristic of the area. These historical structures have been given a thoroughly modern twist to create a contemporary and luxurious villa, complete with a stunning outdoor pool. 

See all our luxury villas in Puglia, Italy

Idea No. 3 – The Algarve, Portugal

With average highs of around 23 degrees in October, The Algarve on Portugal’s south coast is still a delightfully pleasant temperature; warm enough to enjoy the spectacular golden sand beaches that can be found dotted along the coastline. It is the perfect temperature to indulge in long walks along the beach and explore the local fishing villages. 

Where to stay: Hibiscus Beach House, The Algarve, Portugal

Occupying a prime, front row position overlooking a sandy beach, Hibiscus Beach House is perfectly located. You can choose whether to take a dip in the pool or the sea, which is just moments from your terrace. 

The interior is beautifully furnished so it will be a pleasure to be inside too. 

See all our luxury villas in the Algarve, Portugal

Idea No. 4 – Umbria, Italy

October temperatures in Umbria are generally fairly mild, with daily highs of around 20 degrees. This is the perfect temperature to explore the medieval towns, visit the vineyards, dine alfresco, and of course, go truffle hunting. 

Where to stay: Villa Barco, Umbria, Italy

Be prepared to spend a significant part of your stay just staring out at the view – It’s simply stunning with rolling hills fading off into the distance. Villa Barco is an immaculately restored old farmhouse nestled into the hills of a vast estate. The villa still retains all of its Umbrian charm, but does it in total luxury. 

See all our luxury villas in Umbria, Italy

Idea No. 5 – Ibiza

Ibiza remains beautifully warm in October with average daily highs of 24 degrees and the sea is still a very palatable 22 degrees. The crowds will have dissipated and prices will have come down substantially. It’s still warm enough to enjoy the best that Ibiza can offer, but also a more comfortable temperature to explore the charming streets of Ibiza’s old town on foot. 

Where to stay: Villa Aztec, Ibiza

Contemporary and luxurious, Villa Aztec is a destination on its own right. Villas don’t get much more stylish than this. The villa is located in the affluent Cap Martinet area of Ibiza and enjoys stunning views of the sea from its many terraces. Certainly one of the coolest luxury villas in Ibiza, guests at Villa Aztec won’t want to leave the property all week. 

See all our luxury villas in Ibiza, Spain

Idea No. 6 – Amalfi Coast

Italy’s Amalfi Coast is impossibly beautiful. There are jaw-dropping views at every turn. The weather in October is mild and pleasant and is perfectly suited to sitting on a cliff-side terrace and enjoying an aperitif before dinning at one of the area’s superb eateries. 

The sea is still warm enough to swim and exploring is much more comfortable when the heat of the summer has subdued a little. 

Where to stay: Villa Salacia, Amalfi Coast

Making the most of the dramatic landscape, Villa Salacia sits in a commanding position with spectacular views out towards the blue sea and along the rocky coast. A private cableway takes guests down to the sea for super easy access, or just take in the views whilst floating in the villa’s infinity pool. Heaven.

See all our luxury villas in the Amalfi Coast, Italy

Idea No. 7 – Marbella, Spain

Marbella is one of Spain’s more southerly (and glamorous) areas and is a fantastic destination for an October half-term break. With average highs of 22 degrees in October,

hitting the beach is still an option. It’s also the perfect temperature to enjoy an alfresco lunch overlooking the sparkling yachts at Puerto Banus or a round of golf on one of the many excellent courses nearby. 

Where to stay: Green 10 Villas, Marbella, Spain

Set in the grounds of the exclusive Finca Cortesin Hotel, Green 10 Villas are elegantly styled private villas with all the benefits of the service of the hotel. They have been finished to a very high standard, pampering their lucky occupants for a luxurious holiday. 

Each villa has stunning views plus access to all of the hotel’s facilities, including the private beach club, spa and world-class golf courses. 

See all our luxury villas in Marbella, Spain

Idea No 8 – Tuscany

Tuscany is one of those destinations that is glorious in any weather. With Instagram-worthy views in abundance Tuscany has always been a favourite – and for good reason. 

The rolling hills give endless potential for some lovely walks and there are so many beautiful villages to explore it would impossible to list them. Add some superb food and wine, and you have a recipe for a fabulous trip. 

Where to stay: Villa Gauggiole, Tuscany, Italy

Villa Gauggiole in Tuscany is a real gem. Originally an ancient farmhouse, it is now a sympathetically restored luxury villa. The property still retains its personality and charm but has been immaculately furnished. It is located in the huge estate of a world-class 5 star hotel and enjoys full access to all its facilities.

See all our luxury villas in Tuscany, Italy

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