This week may have seen the return of some brighter weather but, there is a distinctive chill in the air which tells us that autumn is on its way. As we start to pull out our jumpers and coats in the UK, we look south towards the Mediterranean and across the Atlantic to Latin America where the warmth of the sun can be enjoyed for a while longer.
Autumn is the time of harvest, of many local festivities and sees the return to a quieter, more relaxed way of life for many resorts. Cities are less sweltering and the sea has had all summer to lose its chill.
Here are some of our favourite destinations to visit during September and October.
Greece:
Our Greece programme is the most comprehensive you will find and most of our destinations remain open for visitors into October. Visit the fishing harbour of Katelios on Kefalonia and eat alongside the locals in the handful of tavernas; choose the island of Skiathos renowned for its sandy shores, or head to the southernmost Greek island of Crete for its array of cultural and natural attractions.
Highlight: Wherever you choose to travel in Greece, you will be welcomed by our local representatives and agents. Their local knowledge and expertise will allow you to see your destination through the eyes of those who call it their home.
Current temperature: 30°C
Aselinos Beach, Skiathos
Cyprus:
Visit Cyprus in autumn and discover an authentic destination packed with history and tradition. It is at this time of year that you can find quiet beaches on which to sunbathe and hike, cycle or walk in the mountainous interior. The weather is warm and mellow; perfect for dining outside in the evenings.
Highlight: If you sit late at night in the dark on one of the beaches in the Polis and Akamas region you could be lucky and see baby turtles hatch (loggerhead).
Current temperature: 36°C
Villa Amaranta, Cyprus
Sicily:
In autumn the hillsides of Sicily are abuzz with activity, as the annual vendemmia (grape harvest) grinds into motion. September brings the start of the creation of the latest vintages of Sicily’s legendary wines.
Highlight: The prized porcini mushrooms appear, and there are sweet chestnuts, almonds and hazelnuts to gather. Ripe quinces are turned into cotognata, a favourite Sicilian delicacy.
Current temperature: 29°C
Mount Etna, Sicily
Lapland:
Over the August bank holiday weekend, the first displays of the Northern Lights were spotted in the skies over Northern Norway and Swedish Lapland. You do not need to wait until the winter months to experience one of nature’s greatest performances for yourself. Travel in the autumn months and enjoy the ever-changing scene as Europe’s New England transforms into a sea of deep orange.
Highlight: Do not miss the Lyngen Alps in Norway or the Abisko National Park in Sweden in Autumn. The landscape is dramatic, peaceful and ideal for leisurely walks. You may even find some wild mushrooms to pick as they are now in season.
Current temperature: 10°C
Northern Lights, Tromso
(c) www.nordnorge.com/Tromso
Colombia:
September and October is the ideal time to visit Colombia, with the settled weather perfect for a multi-centre trip. Do not miss the vibrant and charming walled city of Cartagena. Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the city is an eclectic mix of Caribbean, African and Spanish influences and home to many excellent museums and galleries.
Highlight: With our guide Nico, you will explore the colonial city Cartagena and discover hidden gems only known to locals. City tours are tailored to your interests and time.
Current temperature: 33°C
Cartagena, Colombia