Velvet is back!
Where to go during the velvet season?
Is summer over? According to the calendar, yes, but in reality, sunny and warm days are replaced by autumn rains and coolness not everywhere. We have selected five places where you can still enjoy the warm sea, fresh fruits and vegetables, and get a dose of vitamin D from the gentle sun.
Portugal, Algarve
The official holiday season in Portugal ends on September 15, but you can go to the southern province of Algarve and experience a fabulous, warm autumn there. Here are Albufeira, Portimao and Vilamoura - the most comfortable Portuguese resorts. From the end of September to mid-November, a real velvet season begins here, with a pleasant temperature of about +26 °C during the day and minimal rain. The water in the Atlantic Ocean, even in summer, rarely warms up above +22 °C, but this does not prevent you from enjoying the local beaches.
Unlike the Lisbon Riviera, where you can visit the sights and go on various excursions, in the Algarve you will find a relaxing holiday by the ocean. The region is an almost continuous strip of beaches with a sandy entrance to the sea in the east and picturesque rocky shores in the west. Most of the activities here are related to the water, such as yachting, diving, snorkeling and even shark hunting. In addition, if you wish, you can visit neighboring Spain and Morocco.
Italy, Sicily
September finally brings the summer heat to an end in Sicily, and there couldn't be a more ideal time to visit this Italian island. Temperatures can still reach 30°C during the day, but drop to a balmy 20°C as the sun sets. However, the water remains very warm and pleasant, averaging around +26 °C. In general, autumn in Sicily is a great time both for a beach holiday and for exploring the beauty of this region.
There is so much to see in Sicily! This island is not that small and it will take at least a week to cover all the sights. Many tourists go to the famous Etna, a volcano that has been active in recent years. However, it is still possible to climb to the top of this volcano by cable car. It is also worth exploring ancient Syracuse, relaxing in the resort town of Taormina, strolling through beautiful Catania and, of course, taking a tour of the island’s capital, Palermo. Among the natural beauties, it is worth noting the unusual Scala dei Turchi - an impressive white cliff jutting out into the sea.
Greece, Crete
Crete, one of the largest Greek islands, is popular among tourists from all over the world due to its beautiful nature, interesting excursions and developed infrastructure. October on the island can be called one of the best seasons, when the daytime air temperature reaches +25 °C, and the water temperature remains pleasant and around +24 °C until the end of the month. At this time there is almost no rain, the sun is shining, but not that hot, like in summer.
It's no surprise that beach holidays are the most popular holiday in Crete, as the island has many beautiful beaches. However, from September, opportunities for excursions open up, for example, visiting the Palace of Knossos, exploring the Gorges of Samaria or visiting the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, because under the scorching summer sun you are unlikely to have the energy for an excursion program.
Turkey (Türkiye), Marmaris
Marmaris is considered one of the most European resorts in Turkey, attracting mainly the British, Dutch and Germans. In addition, young people who prefer noisy night parties also love this resort, but if you wish, you can easily find a quiet hotel away from clubs. The main thing is to choose a hotel outside the city.
In autumn, almost nothing has changed in Marmaris compared to summer. The only thing is that the number of tourists has decreased and prices have dropped. Otherwise, it is still hot here, especially in the first weeks of autumn. During the day the temperature can reach +33 °C, and the sea remains very warm, around +25 °C, so you want to spend most of your time on the beach. If you get tired, you can visit the water park, explore the ancient fortress of Marmaris and the Old Town, or enjoy the dancing fountains.
Cyprus
During the velvet season, the air temperature remains pleasant, about +25 ℃, and it is no longer so stuffy outside. The sea also remains warm and calm, and this does not depend on the chosen resort. When choosing a place to stay at this time, it is worth paying attention to the tourism opportunities offered by various locations on the island.
For example, Ayia Napa is considered the most fun and youthful place. There are many all inclusive hotels, as well as bars and restaurants. Tourists can visit beach discos and practice water sports.
Paphos, on the other hand, is more calm and quiet and has many ancient sites to visit. You can also go to famous Troodos mountains from Paphos and enjoy clear air and pine cedar forests.
Larnaca is home to the popular and lively Mackenzie Beach, which has been awarded an honorary Blue Flag for its cleanliness. This beach also attracts divers.
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