Where’s hot in October?

Autumn is in full swing and back home in the UK, the nights are beginning to draw in. Escape the autumn chill to the balmy and beautiful Croatian coast, or the stunning island of Sicily, which both share warm temperatures that nudge the high teens and even 20-21°C on a clear, hot day. Kick back and relax with your family on an exclusive villa holiday in one of our beautiful properties, all featuring private pools, manicured gardens and plenty of chill-out areas. Enjoy a relaxing October half term break in the sunshine when resorts are much quieter, yet the mercury is still high enough for sunbathing on the beach, exploring the sights and spending quality time in your own private pool. 

Croatia

Discover the beautiful region of Istria, which is home to the cities and resort towns of Porec, Rovinj and Pula. Croatia easily makes our must-visit list for where’s hot in October, thanks to its vivid blue waters, iconic towns, majestic mountainous landscapes and captivating history. Come together with your loved ones and celebrate your autumn holiday in style in a tranquil and plush villa like Villa Desiree, complete with sleek modern furnishings, large private pool, BBQ and al fresco dining table. When you can bear to tear yourself away from your decadent accommodation, there is plenty to see and do in the area. 

History lovers will love exploring Pula, which is a lively town with plenty of shops, restaurants and boutiques on offer. A popular destination for day-trips, one of the city’s main attractions is the Pula Amphitheatre, which looks very similar to the design of the Colosseum in Rome, perhaps because both constructions were created around the same time, as directed by Emperor Vespasian. Absorb the history and culture of this fascinating landmark, which used to host gladiator fights and jousting tournaments. The town is also famous for its olive oil, so be sure to pick some up for your store cupboard as a holiday memento.

If you’re into nature, book a day trip to the islands of Veli Brijun and Mali Brijun, which form part of Brijuni National Park. Here you’ll also discover a Roman villa, St. Germana church, a safari park and a second-century Byzantine fortress.

Sicily

A calm and tranquil island just off of Italy’s boot, Sicily is a land of cobbled beaches, rugged landscapes, delicious food and wine and fascinating history, which is why it easily makes our where’s hot in October list.

When you want to take time out from the tranquil gardens and private pool of your Villa Rebecca, experience a more lively pace with a walk around the bustling streets of Siracusa, which is just 20 minutes away by foot. Visit the Apollo Temple at the entrance of Ortigia Island, before heading off to the nearby market to stock up on local cheese, wine and antipasti. Real foodies can book a food tasting tour of the city, indulging in arancini, bruschetta, foccacia, cheese, cannoli and various wines. Also worth visiting is Piazza del Duomo  – a pedestrianised square surrounded by the cathedral of Syracuse, town hall and Chiesa di Santa Lucia alla Badia.    

Heading further afield, hop in the car and drive to the Valley of the Temples – an incredible example of Greek art and architecture from ancient times. Nature and fitness lovers will also enjoy hiking the Stromboli crater, which is an absolute must when visiting the island. Visitors can freely hike up to 400m, but will need a guide to reach the summit. If you came to Sicily for a beach break, there is no better coastline than Riserva Naturale Isola di Lampedusa – a secluded white-sand beach where loggerhead sea turtles lay their eggs.

Feeling inspired? Browse our selection of supreme October holiday villas, as well as other beautiful properties in Croatia and Sicily.