Extend Your Summer

September and October Escapes for Couples and Solo Travellers

We know that not everyone has to wave goodbye to summer at the end of August – and most of us certainly don’t want to! Travel in September or October and you can still find gorgeous warm seas, blue skies and al fresco dining, often without the crowds and soaring temperatures of midsummer.

It is an especially good time for couples and solo travellers, with a calmer atmosphere at many of our favourite hotels and retreats. Whether you want to lie beside the pool or ocean, get active outdoors or dedicate a few days to your wellbeing, these are some of our top choices…

Porto Zante, Zakynthos

For an exceptionally luxurious end to the summer, Porto Zante is difficult to beat. This intimate resort has just nine villas, each with its own heated pool and direct access to a private stretch of beach. They offer the ultimate in privacy.

Service is completely personal, with private dining, in-villa spa treatments and yacht trips around Zakynthos and the neighbouring islands all easily arranged. It is a superb choice for couples looking for complete privacy, although larger villas also work beautifully for two friends travelling together. Children are welcome too, so don’t be put off if you have babies or toddlers as they are made just as welcome as the adults, and childcare can be arranged.

September usually remains gloriously summery, while early October can still bring warm days and comfortable sea temperatures. By late October, the island becomes quieter and the weather less predictable, so timing matters.

F Zeen, Kefalonia

F Zeen’s natural stone buildings, hillside gardens and views across the Ionian Sea give it an easy, understated beauty. Sitting just above Lourdas Beach, this adults-only retreat combines time beside the water with anextensive activity programme.

Yoga, Pilates, guided hikes and outdoor fitness sessions can all feature in your day, alongside treatments at the spa and plenty of time beside the pool. You can participate as much or as little as you please – there’s not pressure here.

The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly, making F Zeen equally suitable for couples and those travelling alone. Visit in September for the most reliable warmth and the full Greek summer experience without the busiest crowds.

Minos Palace Resort, Crete

Surrounded by the sea on its own private peninsula, Minos Palace enjoys a peaceful setting close to Agios Nikolaos. This adults-only resort has a private beach, beautiful pools and light-filled rooms and suites, many with far-reaching views across Mirabello Bay.

It is a place where you can easily spend several days doing very little (if so chose), but yoga, fitness sessions, watersports and spa treatments are available when you want them. Agios Nikolaos is also nearby for an evening beside the harbour or a change of scene.

Crete’s southerly location makes it one of the best Greek islands for a later holiday. September is reliably warm, while early October can still offer excellent beach weather with fewer people around.

Euphoria Retreat, the Peloponnese

Euphoria offers a very different way to extend your summer. Hidden among the forests beneath the ancient village of Mystras, it replaces the traditional beach holiday with outdoor pools, mountain walks, nourishing food and an exceptional spa.

You can choose a personalised programme focused on areas such as fitness, sleep, emotional wellbeing or healthy ageing, or simply enjoy the facilities and beautiful surroundings at your own pace.

Autumn is an excellent time to visit, when the fierce heat of high summer has softened but the days remain pleasantly warm. Euphoria is also one of our most highly recommended retreats for solo travellers. Many guests arrive alone, the experience is highly personalised and there are natural opportunities to meet others without any pressure to be sociable.

Preidlhof, South Tyrol

Summer lingers a little differently at Preidlhof. This adults-only wellness retreat sits among orchards and vineyards in South Tyrol, where September can still bring warm sunshine and temperatures reaching the mid-20s.

It is an excellent choice for couples or solo travellers who prefer mountains to beaches. You can hike, cycle, swim in the outdoor pools and enjoy the spectacular rooftop spa, with its saunas, relaxation spaces and views across the surrounding landscape.

Preidlhof’s programmes range from fitness and weight management to sleep, emotional wellbeing and a more advanced focus on health. September is the best fit for an “extended summer” stay; by October, the scenery is beautiful but the experience becomes more autumnal (although there’s still plenty to do).

Palasiet Thalasso Clinic & Hotel, Spain

Overlooking the Mediterranean in Benicàssim, Palasiet combines Spanish sunshine with a focused approach to health and wellbeing. The hotel specialises in thalassotherapy, using seawater and marine treatments within programmes addressing fitness, detoxification, weight management and general wellbeing.

There is structure and expert support, but also time to swim, walk beside the coast or relax in the gardens. Its welcoming and relaxed atmosphere makes it particularly comfortable for solo travellers, while couples can follow individual programmes and still enjoy plenty of time together.

With mild Mediterranean temperatures extending well into autumn, Palasiet is a particularly good option for both September and October.

Make summer last a little longer

Often, the pleasure of extending your summer lies in warm sunshine without the intense heat, quieter hotels and having more space to enjoy the beach, pool or surrounding countryside.

The right choice will depend on whether your priority is reliable beach weather, privacy, activities or a more focused wellness programme. We know these hotels and retreats well and can advise on the best destination, room and dates for your individual requirements.

Call us on 020 8968 0501 and we will create a September or October escape tailored entirely to you.