Holiday hideaways: where to go in September

The best holiday destinations in September are those secluded spots freshly deserted by the summer throngs. Find the perfect place and you’ll have space to soak up the early autumn sunshine and enjoy luxurious culinary and cultural treats. For the more adventurous among you, we’ve even identified some one-of-a-kind experiences.

Bodrum, Turkey

Join the likes of Roman Abramovich and Beyoncé in decamping to the fabulous yachting destination of Bodrum on Turkey’s south coast. Here you can dine at Il Riccio’s Michelin-starred restaurant or discover the Tomb of Mausolus, also known as the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.

Although with temperatures dipping below the scorching summer highs, you’ll no doubt be itching to get near the water. As you bob between the Aegean isles, you’ll be treated to some of the most breathtaking views and secluded beach spots the region has to offer.

Marina di Cala del Sole, Italy

This Sicilian marina might not offer the large-scale glitz and glamour of major European rivals, but if quiet, cosy exclusivity tops your wish list for where to go in September, it hits the spot.

As well as providing berths for yachts up to 70m, Marina di Cala del Sole is close to historic Licata. This sunny stretch of coast has beautiful beaches, stunning architecture, an archaeological museum packed with classical and medieval artefacts and eateries serving excellent local produce.

Guayaquil, Ecuador

Ecuador was once a backpacker favourite where brave nature tourists set up base en route to the Galapagos Islands and beyond. Today, the growing business community has created a cluster of high-brow hotels and boutique accommodation that attracts a different type of clientele – and offers a whole new experience.

Chief among those is the gorgeous new promenade, the Malecón 2000, which boasts a host of gardens and art museums against a stunning seaside backdrop. In the evening, you can still get some local colour by heading to the painted homes and vibrant bars of Las Peñas.

Madagascar

The fourth-largest island in the world, Madagascar is famous for its exotic wildlife. Not only is it home to thousands of animal species including lemurs (found nowhere else in the world), it also has impressive beaches, reefs and rainforests to explore.

September is arguably one of the best times to visit. The island is relatively quiet due to the school terms starting again, and the increasing temperatures also mean that the fascinating flora begins to resurface from hibernation. Whale spotting off the coasts, a spectacular array of local birds and ideal conditions both inland and around the beaches make this a must-see location for autumnal exploration.

Oualidia, Morocco

Essaouira might be Morocco’s best-known boutique beach destination, but if you head 200km north along the Atlantic coastline you’ll reach the country’s oyster capital of Oualidia: this is where to go in September.

Away from the bustle of Marrakech, Fes and the larger coastal resorts, you can enjoy tranquil views over the coastal lagoon as seabirds seek their share of the coveted shellfish. Or enjoy your own bountiful meal of seafood from one of the chic restaurants that are dotted along the seafront.

Have you already decided where to go in September? Or are you ready to set down roots with a holiday home of your own? Visit our blog to discover some fresh ideas for your new second home.