Luxury Holiday Destinations in October

Best For: Sun lovers

With darker skies and colder temperatures starting to set in across much of Western Europe, October is the perfect month to escape to sun-kissed Cyprus. Situated to the south of Turkey, this Mediterranean island country still boasts temperatures of up to 30° C at this time of year, allowing visitors to enjoy the long sandy beaches and turquoise waters that characterise Cyprus’ stunning coastline. The island’s calm seas make Cyprus one of the few Mediterranean destinations where the water sports season is still in full flow come October: scuba divers in particular are spoilt for choice, with a remarkable array of Roman ruins, wrecks and diverse marine life all easily visible through the crystal-clear water. Away from the sea, be sure to explore the rich Cypriot cuisine, which reflects the nation’s vibrant, multicultural history. Expect to see Greek and Turkish culinary influences, as well as inspiration from further afield, making it a truly unique fusion of the Mediterranean’s best dishes.

Best For: Explorers

The largest of the Canary Islands, Tenerife has long been known for its spectacular sandy beaches, which have made it one of Europe’s most popular holiday destinations. However, if you are prepared to explore the island’s hinterland, you will find that Tenerife has much more to offer than the gorgeous Atlantic coastline so often emblazoned on postcards. For those of you with an adventurous spirit, we recommend taking a hire car to the striking snow-capped El Teide volcano. Standing at over 3,700m, it is recognised by UNESCO as the Earth’s third-tallest volcanic structure, but don’t worry – it hasn’t erupted since 1909! No road trip of Tenerife is complete without taking in the dramatic roads carved through the Anaga Mountains – if you feel like stretching your legs you can explore the impressive network of hiking trails and discover the landscape’s innate beauty up close – whilst the golden poppy fields near Arico are another must-see. Tenerife’s capital, Santa Cruz, is also worth a visit – it is often included in guides of the world’s best cities in which to live and is home to the Auditorio de Tenerife, a masterpiece of modern architecture designed in the mould of the Sydney Opera House.

Best For: Adventurers and Foodies

Discover Japan’s exceptional natural beauty: with over 6,000 islands to explore and an impressive mountainous landscape featuring the instantly recognisable Mount Fuji, there is enough to keep even the keenest adventurers entertained. October is one of the most enchanting times to visit Japan, as the country shifts into a season defined by vivid colour, gentle temperatures and a calm yet atmospheric energy. Maple and ginkgo trees turn shades of amber and crimson, creating a beautiful backdrop for exploring temples, gardens and historic districts in cities such as Kyoto, Tokyo and Kanazawa. The mild weather makes outdoor experiences especially appealing, from countryside walks to visits to traditional villages and scenic mountain routes. Cultural events, seasonal cuisine and refined hospitality add further depth to the experience, making October a month where Japan’s beauty and traditions feel particularly immersive. A trip to Japan also provides the perfect opportunity to sample the country’s world-famous cuisine, including sushi, tempura and kaiseki, the pinnacle of Japanese fine dining.

Best For: Family Fun

If you are still searching for the perfect destination for your October half term family getaway, look no further than the United Arab Emirate of Dubai. Situated on the Arabian Gulf, this Middle Eastern paradise has an abundance of beautiful sandy beaches that are perfect for the whole family: the calm, warm waters are ideal for younger children to paddle in, whilst there are plenty of activities to keep teenagers occupied, including paddle boarding and beach volleyball. The kids will also love a day out at one of Dubai’s popular waterparks – the Legoland Waterpark is a particular favourite of ours. Looking for something more unique? Make truly magical memories by venturing into the Arabian Desert on camels, or experience the adrenaline rush of a 4×4 desert safari drive. After an action-packed day, take in the city’s iconic skyline whilst you dine at one of the plethora of luxury restaurants.