Ideas for October Half Term
This is a hugely popular time to get away and grab the last of the summer sun before winter kicks in. Accommodation and flights are very busy, especially to the warmest shorthaul destinations - but there is still availability to be had. Below you’ll find our recommendations for top destinations for October half term. For resort suggestions/information/quotes etc on any of these, just contact us.
For a quick guide to the latest availability click here.
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Greece:
A good choice for October as the weather remains good with plenty of sunshine, and the sea temperature is at its warmest. There is a wide range of accommodation options, from villas (luxury or simple) to hotels of all kinds - very luxurious with all facilities, to simple beachside family run inns. We have excellent recommendations of all types, many with offers for Sept/October.
Turkey:
Again, great weather, warm seas – and plenty of excellent beachclub options in particular, with great activities and facilities for adults and children of all ages.
Malta:
Malta and Gozo are ideal for October - a relatively short flight from the UK (3- 3.5 hrs) and yet the weather stays very warm indeed until November. Lots to explore, great boat trips & swimming. The Dragonara in Malta is very family friendly with creche from 12mths (some one bed suites with kitchenettes), and in Gozo the Kempinski is both stylish and family friendly.
The Canaries:
All the Canary islands will have good warm weather, and are ideal for an October break. There are some excellent hotels at all levels which offer great facilities for adults and children, plus plenty to explore – the ‘moonscape’ of Lanzarote, the national parks of Tenerife and the sand dunes of Gran Canaria for example.
Other Med destinations:
Most of the Med destinations will have variable weather – can be warm, can be cool. It’s a great time however to really explore all that these fascinating countries have to offer. It’s a good idea to choose resorts which also offer a good range of indoor activities, in case of variable weather.
Portugal is a good choice for example, and we recommend the suites or villas on the lovely Monte Da Quinta resort - restaurants, spa, golf, tennis, good indoor pool, horse riding and crèche and kids club from 6 mths. The Vila Vita Parc for hotel luxury with childcare for all ages from 4 mths. The Pine Cliffs Residence apartments on the Sheraton site – again, great childcare and a variety of appt types and sizes with full hotel facilities.
Spain, France, Italy, Balearics are all great destinations too of course – variable weather, but with so much to explore and do, and great food and scenery.
Cyprus:
Hugely popular for October: great weather, crystal clear seas, lots to explore. It boasts a great variety of luxury family friendly hotels, most with excellent facilities for all age groups. We recommend the Almyra, The Anassa, Le Meridien Cyprus, The Elysium, Aphrodite Hills.
Tunisia:
Tunisia offers a shorthaul holiday with a difference – exotic, with a fantastic range of scenery. Great weather in October. Tunis just a 2.5 hrs flight from the UK offers an intriguing mix of European boulevards and an atmospheric medina. Children of all ages respond to the vibrant colours and sounds of this fascinating destination – from the camel rides on the beach to the excitement of the souks. The Residence Tunis is a superb hotel – elegant, contemporary, with excellent service, large pool, enclosed gardens, good food and childrens menu and kids club.
Morocco
Morocco is another exotic and fascinating destination just a quick 3 hr flight away. Plenty of sunny, hot weather, and so much to explore – souks, camel riding, belly dancing, along with trips to the Atlas mountains. Children of all ages are fascinated by the colours, sounds, smells and sights of Morocco – Marrakech has some excellent hotels and Riads, and Agadir is a good choice for a more sun/sea/sand resort.
Red Sea Resorts
Ideal for October and November - and perfect for (almost guaranteed) late summer sun and for those who love diving and snorkelling. Much to explore here too. Lovely warm seas ideal for toddlers and children who love to paddle, swim or snorkel. Again, options at all levels - and some good 4/5 stars with creche and kids club.
Middle East
It’s a great time to visit the Middle East – Dubai, Oman, UAE, Bahrain. Great weather – real warmth and sunshine – great hotels with superb service and facilities, low jet lag, flight times form just 6.5 hrs. Warm seas, great beaches plus plenty to explore.
Mauritius
Very popular longhaul destination for October. White sand beaches, azure sea, a very high standard of accommodation and service. Some of the world's leading hotels, some smaller hotels too and some great self catering options, from luxurious villas with private pools to simple, on the beach properties. Flights can be non stop and overnight, so travel is relatively stress-free. . Temperatures are good – in themed 20’s with low humidity. Ideal for watersports, but lots to explore all over the island too.
UK
If you prefer to stay close to home we recommend the Rosevine Fowey Hall in Cornwall - stunning scenery, great for both adults and children. All the luxury family hotels are great choices - offering plenty of luxury + childcare and activities. babygoes2's UK pages offers a great selection of family friendly cottages throughout the UK - from Whitstable to Northumberland - all ideal for a relaxing autumn getaway.
