As the summer season winds down, many travellers long for just a bit more sunshine. Luckily, numerous short-haul destinations offer the perfect opportunity to extend that summer feeling well into autumn. We’ve scoured the map to bring you a diverse array of nearby destinations where you can top up your tan and ward off the approaching chill of winter. From hidden Mediterranean gems to unexpected Atlantic escapes, our list promises to inspire your next getaway.
- Marbella
Known for its glitz and glamour, Marbella is even better in the low season due to its quieter attractions and year-round warmth. Marbella is less than three hours from Heathrow Airport and experiences temperatures in the mid-20s (Celsius) even in late October.
If you’re travelling with friends, take advantage of glamorous beach clubs like Ocean Club Marbella or Nikki Beach. These clubs offer low-season offers and a vibrant atmosphere with more space than in high season.
If you do bring the kids in tow, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained. Explore the Old Town together or rent a charter yacht for a luxurious cruise around the Mediterranean.
Speaking of charters, this is one of the few destinations on the planet where it’s just as common to arrive via private plane charter as it is on a commercial plane. If you’re thinking about flying in style for the first time, this is the getaway to try it out.
- Cyprus
Clocking in at just under five hours, the travelling time from the UK to Cyprus is classed as the longest short-haul flight. Once you’ve arrived, you can relish in the white-washed towns and ever-streaming sunlight. Even as late as November you’ll find temperatures regularly sitting above 20 degrees.
This is an island geared towards low-season holidaymakers. You’ll find some of the continent’s best hotel deals, great weather, and a host of superb activities without the crowds.
So, what does Cyprus have to offer you? Families can cool off at any number of excellent waterparks. Parko Paliatso Luna Park is home to the island’s largest funfair, with dozens of rides and arcade games. For history buffs, you can explore an endless supply of archaeological wonders, such as the ruins of the ancient city of Amathus near Limassol. Paphos Archeological Park is also home to the Tomb of Kings and an array of monuments from as far back as the 4th century BCE. If you’re here to relax, head to Nissi Beach and soak in both the sunlight and cool Mediterranean waters.
- Morocco
Let’s spice things up a little with a trip to the North African coast. In less than four hours from Heathrow, you can find yourself enveloped in not only a new culture but a new continent, too. Despite being the 17th most visited destination from the U.K., Morocco is fast becoming a favourite among those looking for year-round sun.
Daytime temperatures float into the mid-twenties throughout October, so you can enjoy the heat without it hindering your exploration of this exciting and ancient country. Take your pick from the bustling souks of Marrakech, the historic Casablanca, or the Mediterranean-inspired Essaouira, with its strong Portuguese influence.
If you’re looking for guaranteed sunshine, look no further than the famed port of Agadir, with its 300 days of sunshine a year and a six-mile stretch of beach to soak up the rays.
- The Canary Islands
Welcome to the home of Winter Sun. Being just off the coast of the Western Sahara, there is no better chance of some low-season sun than jetting off to one of these seven stunning islands. Flight times clock in at around four and a half hours, so the Canaries are one of the longest short-haul destinations featured on the list. With just two days of rainfall across September and October and temperatures often climbing into their late twenties, The Canary Islands offer British holidaymakers both consistency and quality in their post-summer holidays.
Being the biggest island in the Canaries makes Tenerife the most popular pick, with seaside resorts like Costa Adeje and Playa de las Teresitas. You can climb Spain’s biggest mountain in Teide National Park or simply lay back and relax at stunning resorts like Bahía Del Duque and Ritz-Carlton Abama.
If you’re looking for natural wonders then consider Gran Canaria or Lanzarote with their otherworldly sand dunes and black sand beaches, respectively. The latter of these is unique for its volcanic landscapes and barren yet beautiful interior. Both islands, alongside Tenerife, are excellent choices for half-term escapes with the kids with dozens of excellent hotels catering for families and attractions like zoos, waterparks and theme parks.
In the mood for something a little more adventurous? La Palma is literally home to an active volcano and Fuerteventura has some of the best surfing in Europe. Oh, did we mention that it’s also a UNESCO-recognised biosphere? There are natural wonders and restorative gems throughout the Canaries. Whatever your picks for this year’s winter sun, you won’t regret it!
- Türkiye
One UK tour operator named Türkiye their fastest-growing holiday destination, so it would be remiss not to include it here. With just under four hours of flight time from London, Türkiye is an ideal accessible post-summer destination due to its hot weather and diverse offerings.
Dive into a world of art, history, and culture with one of Europe’s most exciting city breaks: Istanbul. Visit the Blue Mosque and eat a kebab in the home of donër before a night of arts at the stunning Atatürk Cultural Centre (AKM).
If you’re looking for a longer trip, then head south to the shores of Bodrum, Antalya, or Fethiye. These destinations enjoy year-round warmth with a range of low-cost and luxury options, no matter your budget. Many hotels close their doors in late October and early November, so be sure to check in advance for the best availability.
A Final, Warm Word
Eight islands, three continents, and a bucket of post-summer short-haul destinations later, we have our list. Just because summer has ended in the UK doesn’t mean you must miss out on an extended holiday in warmth.
