Come October, the Algarve is still delightfully warm and ideal for embracing the outdoors. Whether in search of inviting swim and surf spots, beachside adventures, or a taste of fresh seafood and ancient architecture, Portugal’s southern coast promises a varied and memorable escape.

As your flight descends into Faro airport, expect ocean panoramas and sprawling sandy shores stretching as far as the eye can see. The Algarve’s white-washed villages bustle with lively cafés, bars, restaurants, and boutiques. Pick up a car at the airport and set out for the coast.

For a truly refined stay, consider the Conrad Algarve in Quinta do Lago. This luxurious resort blends contemporary design with family-friendly elegance: picture heated pools, a kids’ club, Michelin-star cuisine, and rejuvenating wellness facilities all moments from the golden coastline. With nature trails and the acclaimed Ria Formosa lagoon nearby, the Conrad Algarve makes it easy to experience both relaxation and outdoor adventure, all amid the best the Algarve has to offer.

With temperatures still pleasantly warm but not overwhelming, autumn is the ideal time to explore Morocco, from the bustling souks of Marrakech to the undulating dunes of the Sahara and layered tapestry of the Atlas Mountains.

A unique mix of Arab, Berber and French influences is interspersed within Moroccan history and heritage. Learn about the nation’s history by visiting cultural sites such as the Marrakech Museum, or simply taste the range of influences in the delicious cuisine.

Pots of glistening tagine are served with generous servings of spice-infused couscous, followed by steaming cups of sweet mint tea. When it’s time to return to your hotel, the Royal Mansour Marrakech is the place to rest your weary heads. This stunning property offers 53 traditional riads, set within five hectares of gardens. The hotel is just a short walk from the sights and sounds of central Marrakech, so you can continue to explore the city with ease.

One&Only Le Saint Géran in Mauritius shines as a perfect family haven with its warm, sunny days and calm, crystal-clear waters. Nestled on a private peninsula surrounded by a sheltered lagoon and the Indian Ocean, this iconic resort offers a serene blend of tropical beauty and luxurious comfort. Whether you’re seeking beach days filled with water sports like kayaking, snorkelling, and glass-bottom boat trips, or exploring nearby natural wonders like the Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam Botanical Garden, the warmer spring temperatures and gentle ocean breeze make every moment outside a joy.

Families are warmly welcomed here with spacious suites and a dedicated kids-only club for children aged 3-11, ensuring fun and enriching activities for little ones, while adults can unwind at the full-service spa, enjoy fine dining across five restaurants, or tee off on the Gary Player-designed golf course. Just an hour from the airport, this elegant resort combines effortless access with a secluded island vibe, making it an ideal destination for an October Half Term escape where relaxation and adventure come hand in hand.