Five places for autumn sun in Europe and Turkey, from Kalkan to Senigallia
The Guardian's travel section recommends five destinations for warmth and thinner crowds in October and November: Kalkan in Turkey, Agua Amarga in Spain, Cascais in Portugal, Senigallia in Italy and Saint-Jean-de-Luz in France.
The British newspaper The Guardian has published a travel selection of five European and Turkish destinations for people who want some sun in autumn. The writers point to smaller crowds than in summer and lower accommodation prices as the main advantages.
Kalkan, Turkey
In the Turkish resort of Kalkan, on the south-west coast, October still feels like summer: harbourfront restaurants are full, boats still run in and out of the bay, and taxis are easy to find. The much-photographed Kaputas beach is overrun in summer but has more room in autumn, with the water still warm. The mountain village of Bezirgan turns quiet, and the Lycian Way passes through it. A double at White House costs from £120 including breakfast.
Agua Amarga, Spain
This Andalucían fishing village on the Costa de Almería is a low-key destination with a 500-metre beach. The sea stays warm in autumn and the bars and restaurants remain open, while in winter the town goes quiet. The Cabo de Gata nature reserve is nearby, and the British gangster film Sexy Beast was shot here. Doubles at Hotel Las Calas start at £80.
Cascais, Portugal
Cascais, 20 miles west of Lisbon, was once a summer retreat for Europe's nobility. It has about 300 sunny days a year and suits outdoor activities in autumn. Sintra and Cabo da Roca are close; the latter has some of the latest sunsets in mainland Europe in autumn and winter. Casa Vela doubles start at €79, room only.
Senigallia, Italy
The town in Italy's Marche region is known for its two top restaurants' Michelin stars: Uliassi has three, Madonnina del Pescatore two. Autumn brings fresh produce and new olive oil, and the Festa dell'Olio Nuovo runs from 6 to 10 November in Scapezzano. Doubles at Al Foro Annonario start at €80 with breakfast.
Saint-Jean-de-Luz, France
In the French Basque Country, in the south-west, the town keeps the warmth of summer longer than the rest of France's west coast. Its beach is sheltered by two headlands from the Atlantic waves.
