Where to go for autumn sun

By Sophie Butler

Autumn warmth

Angela Piper writes

I'd like to get away for some sunshine this autumn. Is it a good time to go and which destinations should I consider for reliable warmth?

Sophie Butler, a specialist in travel consumer affairs, replies

September through to late October is a great time to travel. Prices fall as schools go back and demand drops at the start of the "shoulder season" (the midway stage between the peak summer rates and the off-season bargain period from November to mid-December).

If you're considering a package holiday, you have the best chance of picking up a last-minute deal this month because tour operators continue to operate similar numbers of charter aircraft as in peak season but have far fewer passengers. Scheduled flights are cheaper too, with delays on flights to holiday airports less likely, security queues shorter and departure lounges emptier. Hotels are also quieter.

You're likely to enjoy balmy weather, too – even if you stay close to home. Over the next three or four weeks, the high heat and humidity of the summer peak lessens, but temperatures can still rise to 77F (25C), with around seven hours of sun on destinations such as the Costa Brava, just over two hours' flight time. And seawater is at its warmest. However, the weather is likely to break at some point in October so, by then, it's best to mitigate the risk of rain and chilly winds by travelling farther south. Crete and the Costa del Sol are nice in October, as is Cyprus, where temperatures average around 80F (27C) and nine hours of sun. Try Sunvil (020 8568 4499; www.sunvil.co.uk).

From late October and into early November, Marrakesh is a pleasantly warm option with temperatures at around 73F (23F), little rain and an average of seven hours sunshine with the added benefit of comfortably cool nights. You'll also find some good-quality hotels through The Best of Morocco (0800 171 2151; www.morocco-travel.com).

For virtually guaranteed sunshine, consider Egypt – either the Red Sea coast for beach resorts or a hotel stay in Luxor which sees ten hours of sunshine a day with temperatures peaking in the mid 80sF (late 20sC); the Red Sea coast is normally a few degrees cooler). Kuoni (01306 747737; www.kuoni.co.uk) has good hotel options.

A good choice among long-haul options is the Indian Ocean island of Mauritius, which is at its best in autumn. October is the driest and sunniest month, with temperatures at around 80F (27C) and humidity at its lowest. It's only three hours ahead of British Summer Time (BST), too, so jet lag isn't too much of a problem. However, avoid the end of October when families travel for half term and travel before the wet season starts in December. Try BA Holidays (0844 493 0758; www.ba.com) or Trailfinders (0845 050 5892; www.trailfinders.com).

Telegraph