Autumn Sunshine Locations

After the gruellingly British British summer in which the sun has barely shown its face from behind overcast clouds, you may feel as if you need a holiday. If a summer's trip away from Blighty hasn't been possible this year then perhaps you could consider an Autumn break instead.

Thankfully there are many short haul destinations that will offer some final glimmers of sunshine before the winter begins to kick in.

There are many other appeals to an Autumn getaway as well, beyond compensating for a rather absent British summer. Generally speaking, crowds have thinned and beaches are empty. You can head down to the tourist attractions and not have to worry about queuing all day, and furthermore with a less intense heat, that summer malaise doesn't take quite such a toll and you can take a nice walk taking in all the natural beauty of your holiday destination.

Perhaps most appealing of all is the price slashes of the off season, cheaper flights and accommodation. Vacation rentals across the continent begin to offer great deals for late travellers wishing to book their villas.

Here are some of the best destinations for an Autumn getaway in Europe:


Andalusia, Spain

Andalusia enjoys a particularly warm August, often approaching temperatures in the low 30 degrees. The beaches are great this time of year, still great for lounging around in and considerably less crowded and quieter. Yet this time of the year here is particularly suited to cooler climbs of the sweeping hills around the region.

The Sierra de Arcane is a beautiful national park nearby, that is great for an Autumn stroll. Then traipse through the whitewashed villages in the region, settling down to tapas and a fine Rioja in the evening.

Spanish villas are beautiful all year round, offering a great windswept luxury throughout the Autumn.


Sardinia, Italy

Throughout the Autumn Sardinia's temperature remains in the mid 20s offering a warm but not overbearing holiday.

Yet in Autumn you can also discover one of the regions best little secrets, Autunno in Barbagia (Autumn in Barbagia). This is a season long festival in which the place is transformed. 27 villages throughout the region flood with markets and street celebrations. Local open their doors to travellers, and invite them in to their dining rooms for local cuisine prepared by local people.

Alternatively you can take advantage of the nearby empty beaches.


Cyprus

Cyprus's southern position ensures that it has a long and hot Autumn. With temperatures frequently in the mid 30s it may only be the locals who notice that it isn't Summer. While many may be reluctant to stay in the Cyprus resorts, there are now a great number of Cyprus villas attracting tourists from all over Europe. Around Cyprus there are many great rustic areas, perfect for a sunlit stroll. Though perhaps more would be drawn to the white beaches and the still warm beaches as they glisten under a boastful sun.