Extend Your Summer with a Luxury European Escape

September is increasingly becoming one of the smartest months to travel in Europe. Recent travel data and industry commentary point to a growing appetite for shoulder-season holidays, with travellers looking to avoid the intensity of July and August while still enjoying a genuine summer atmosphere.

Another excellent reason to consider travelling in September is the opportunity to experience luxury accommodations without the summer crowds. Many of Europe’s sought-after five-star resorts and boutique hotels maintain their exceptional standards of service and offer the same stunning rooms, all while enjoying the warm Mediterranean climate. This allows for a more serene and personalised travel experience, perfect for those seeking indulgence and tranquillity.

September availability can be surprisingly good, especially if you are flexible with dates and destinations. Last-minute cancellations and unsold inventory can also create opportunities that weren’t available during peak season.

So rather than thinking of September as the end of summer, think of it as the luxury traveller’s secret season. The crowds start to disappear, the temperatures become more comfortable, the sea is still warm and, importantly, luxury hotels can become considerably more accessible.

It is arguably the best combination in travel: five-star hotels, late-summer sunshine and significantly better value. So where to Go? Here are my top 3 picks for Autumn Sun.

Puglia remains a brilliant option for late summer, particularly if you want a combination of beautiful beaches, outstanding food and charming towns. Spend the morning swimming in impossibly clear water, lunch over fresh seafood and the afternoon wandering through whitewashed streets before returning to a beautiful Masseria for aperitivo. Stay at Borgo Egnazia rooms from €1,500 per night based on 2 people sharing. 50% less than August. For Bbookings and enquiries, please visit Borgo Egnazia

Greece in September is fantastic. Weather is ideal, the sea water is still warm, and the crowds have gone. Nestled in the beautiful Halkidiki, you'll find the five-star luxury resort, Sani. The resort seamlessly blends into it's surrounds; it's surprisingly vast, with 5 hotels within 1 resort; however, it never feels imposing but rather the opposite, more of an intimate luxury 5-star boutique hotel feel. The aesthetic is glamorous, from plush sun loungers to crisp linens in the bedroom that look like they are straight out of a "The white company" campaign. Stay at Sani Beach in September with rooms from €180 per night based on 2-person sharing. For bookings and enquiries, please visit Sani Resort, Luxury Family Resort in Greece, Halkidiki

Portugal, particularly Comporta, has a lot to offer: pristine beaches, cool upscale beach clubs, laid-back stylish restaurants and accommodation that is architecturally designed and aesthetically pleasing. It has also been described as the "Hamptons of Portugal " because of its chic and relaxed approach and elegant boutique vibes; here you'll find bohemian fashion gems and local artisan crafts. You'll also find chic restaurants in stunning surroundings, sophisticated beach clubs, rustic beaches and a charming village, and September is the perfect time to visit. Stay at Sublime Comporta, with rooms from €800 per night based on 2-person sharing. For bookings and enquiries, please visit Book at the best price guaranteed!