As children return to school, the crowds disperse, prices drop, and ample sunshine remains for late-season getaways in Southern Europe
Cassis, Provence, France
Boasting 300 days of sunshine annually, Nice has long been the preferred destination for northern Europeans seeking an extended summer. However, on the western edge of the Cote d’Azur, Marseille and its adjacent beaches offer an equally enticing climate without the exorbitant price tags.
While you could easily spend a few days strolling through Marseille’s charming old town, the Vieux-Port, and the city’s world-class museums, if the allure of the beach beckons, you won’t need to journey far. Cassis, an enchanting fishing village adorned with pastel-colored houses and pebble-strewn shores, is just a 45-minute drive or a 20-minute train ride from the city. It serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the Calanques, a chain of narrow coastal inlets embraced by towering limestone cliffs. Embark on a boat excursion from the marina or rent a kayak to explore nearby hidden coves, or take on the Calanques de Cassis hike from the village, which covers the Calanque de Port-Miou, Calanque de Port Pin, and Calanque d’en Vau in a single day.
The environmentally conscious Hôtel les Volets Rouges presents 20 modern, well-lit rooms in a serene setting within the heart of Calanques National Park. While it’s just a 10-minute drive from Cassis town center, it serves as an ideal base for those seeking access to hiking trails leading to the Calanques. Double rooms are available from £113 per night in September/October.
Travel Arrangements: TGV trains establish a swift link between Marseille and Paris, with a travel time of approximately three and a half hours. Following your arrival in Marseille, a 20-minute train journey will take you to Cassis.
Šibenik, Dalmatia, Croatia
The Adriatic coastline enjoys an extended summer, with warm waters lasting well into October, and sometimes even November. For those seeking a blend of beachfront relaxation, cultural experiences, and access to breathtaking natural beauty, Šibenik is the ideal destination for one last taste of summer.
Surprisingly, Šibenik often goes unnoticed by many tourists, despite its remarkable attributes. This charming Dalmatian city, situated halfway between Zadar and Split, offers plenty to explore, and it doesn’t shut down completely during the winter season, unlike many coastal areas in Croatia.
You’ll discover the awe-inspiring UNESCO-listed Cathedral of St. James, a picturesque pebble beach with city views, and a captivating Venetian old town characterized by meandering marble alleyways and cozy restaurants nestled in small squares. Stroll along the Riva waterfront to breathe in the refreshing sea breeze while enjoying café terraces and observing boats (note that cruise ships can’t navigate the narrow channel leading to the city).
For a more elevated perspective, ascend the hill to explore the three meticulously restored 16th-century Venetian fortresses – St. John, St. Michael, and Barone. Alternatively, embark on a three-mile hike along St. Anthony’s Channel to reach the UNESCO-listed remnants of St. Nicholas fortress.
Armerun Heritage Hotel & Residence offers 21 chic rooms and apartments within a former Dominican monastery situated along the waterfront. Double rooms start at €177 with breakfast included in September, and €112 in October.
Travel Arrangements: Overland trips from the UK necessitate a minimum of 26 hours of travel time and involve taking the Eurostar to Brussels, followed by train rides to Munich, and then Flixbuses to Šibenik.
Arcachon, Atlantic coast, France
Connoisseurs of oysters are well aware that autumn typically presents the prime opportunity to savor this delicacy. Coincidentally, it’s also one of the most favorable seasons to visit Arcachon, a significant hub for oyster cultivation along France’s Atlantic coast.
The Bassin d’Arcachon, a sizeable sheltered bay, often maintains pleasant temperatures well into October. During the peak of summer, the charming fishing villages dotting the bay, with their cabanes à huîtres (oyster huts) where you can relish the freshest seafood with your feet in the sand, are a delight. However, in autumn, the town of Arcachon emerges as a superior choice, boasting year-round vibrancy.
In addition to its sandy beaches, delectable seafood, and stunning Belle Epoque architecture, Arcachon serves as an excellent starting point for bike excursions into the Landes forest or along the bay, offering the opportunity to witness the 110m-high Dune du Pilat. In July and August, Europe’s tallest sand dune is thronged with tourists, but in September and October, you can bask in the breathtaking vistas and sunsets without the crowds.
Accommodation Options: Hotel de la Plage offers charming rooms adorned with pine wood decor and enjoys proximity to both the train station and the beach. Double rooms are available from £130 per night in September and £94 per night in October.
Travel Arrangements: TGV trains provide a swift connection from Paris to Bordeaux in just over two hours. From Bordeaux, it’s a 50-minute train journey to reach Arcachon.
Sestri Levante, Liguria, Italy
Genoa’s eastern Riviera is speckled with charming small towns, once thriving fishing ports, showcasing intricate trompe l’oeil paintings on their historic houses. While the ultra-wealthy gravitate toward Portofino, which is undeniably picturesque, there are numerous equally captivating spots along this coastline. Sestri Levante, situated to the southeast, is a favorite among Italians during the summer season, boasting two sandy beaches separated by a picturesque headland. The smaller one, Baia del Silenzio, forms a perfect crescent of sandy shoreline framed by colorful houses, although it can get quite crowded in August. Autumn provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate its beauty at its finest.
Although beach-worthy weather extends into October, some days may be cool enough to relish a panoramic stroll from the old town encircling the Punta Manara peninsula. The coveted Cinque Terre towns are just a half-hour away by train. A brief walk inland leads to Ca’ di Ferae, an establishment offering innovative cuisine crafted from traditional ingredients in an authentic, off-the-beaten-path setting, and some of the finest vegetarian dishes in the region.
Accommodation Choices: Within walking distance of the beaches, the old town, and the train station, you’ll find La Casa dei Paggi, a delightful B&B hosted by Angelo and Giovanna in a 19th-century house enveloped by gardens. It features just two guest rooms, a balcony with sea views adorned with vibrant bougainvillea, and homemade breakfasts served on the porch. Double rooms start at €110.
Travel Arrangements: The journey from London to Genoa by train takes approximately 12½ hours, involving transfers in Paris and either Milan or Turin. From Genoa, there’s a 36-minute train ride to reach Sestri Levante.
