After the haze of summer, autumn brings the perfect chance to slow down and reset. It’s also an ideal time to travel if you’re not quite ready to let go of sun-drenched escapes, putting off cooler temperatures and winter darkness for a little while longer.
Perhaps you’d like to watch Japan’s landscapes transform into blazing shades of red and gold, indulge in the heady pleasures of Dubai or extend the feeling of a carefree summer on the Ionian coast. Whether you’re planning a couples’ escape or a family holiday for October half term, our experts have hand-picked some of their favourite places to visit this autumn.
Menorca
So many autumn escapes are all about sightseeing – exploring as much as you can and soaking up every moment. But there’s something to be said for slowing down and using this season to enjoy the simple pleasures of island life – and Menorca is perfect for it. With fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures and beautiful countryside to explore, it’s an ideal time to discover the island’s scenic walking trails, secluded coves and charming villages.
We Recommend: Vestige Son Vell
Vestige Son Vell makes an idyllic rural base for a slower-paced getaway. Set within 180 hectares of peaceful countryside, this beautifully restored 18th-century manor invites you to embrace Menorca’s quiet side. Spend leisurely afternoons cycling through the estate, walking sections of the historic Camí de Cavalls or exploring nearby Ciutadella, before returning to enjoy farm-to-table dining and a sunset cocktail overlooking the grounds.
Planning a couples' escape? Discover European cities made for romance here.
Dubai
With cooler temperatures than the peak of summer, autumn is the perfect time of year to explore all that Dubai has to offer – from world-class boutiques and indulgent spas to some of the city’s most innovative restaurants. There’s always something new to discover in a city that doesn’t hold back.
We Recommend: Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
Set on Jumeirah Beach, Mandarin Oriental Jumeira occupies a prime spot with views across the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s lucent skyline.
Dining here lives up to the city’s reputation as one of the world’s top destinations for fine dining. Savour contemporary Portuguese cuisine – from tuna tartare cones to Bacalhau à Gomes de Sá – at the Michelin-starred Tasca by José Avillez, or enjoy a one-of-a-kind gastronomic experience at Beluga, where caviar infuses everything from cocktails to cheesecake.
Atlantis The Royal
An icon of Dubai’s futuristic skyline, Atlantis The Royal has a network of 795 rooms stacked vertically from sand to sky, with ever more breathtaking views the further you climb.
Here, the extraordinary is the everyday – from swimming in the sky at Cloud 22 to the world’s first Nobu beach club and culinary innovation at Michelin-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal. Whatever you imagine, Atlantis The Royal has a way of exceeding it.
Raffles The Palm
Retreat to your very own beachfront palace this autumn at Raffles The Palm, where regal glamour is woven into every detail. On arrival, you’ll be mesmerised by the Venetian chandelier, finished in 24-carat gold and adorned with more than 40,000 Swarovski crystals for a spectacular display of light. A Grand Palaces Afternoon Tea in the Blüthner Hall is a necessary indulgence, with desserts inspired by famous European palaces, including the Viennese Sacher Torte, which dates back to the 1800s.
The legendary Raffles Butler Service is every bit as personalised and anticipatory as you’d expect, from discreetly unpacking and organising your luggage to reserving tables and arranging treatments at the Cinq Mondes Spa.
Japan
Just as spectacular as cherry blossom season, autumn casts Japan in a fiery display of red, orange and gold foliage. Given the popularity of this season, we recommend booking well in advance to experience Japan at its most vibrant.
We Recommend: A tailor-made itinerary
A tailor-made luxury Japan itinerary immerses you in the very best of Japan, from Tokyo’s gardens, including Hamarikyu Garden, to the Mount Fuji region, where you can ride the cable car over Owakudani. Take the scenic Hida Wideview train through autumn-coloured mountains and gorges to Takayama, then visit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Shirakawa-go, famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
Corfu
Autumn is an ideal time for a Corfu escape, when still-warm temperatures and inviting seas make it perfect for relaxing by the coast and exploring the island. Wander the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town at a more leisurely pace, without the bustle of the summer crowds, and savour authentic Ionian cuisine.
We Recommend: Grecotel, Corfu Imperial
At the tip of the lush Kommeno peninsula, immersed in olive groves and cypress trees, Grecotel, Corfu Imperial offers the island at its most exclusive. Retreat to a private waterfront villa to enjoy direct sea access of shimmering Ionian waters, while the hilltop Medusa Estate provides the ultimate Corfiot palace for larger groups.
Until October, experience a replica of a Corfiot village at Dania, where you’ll step back in time and savour traditional Greek cuisine. October also marks the beginning of Corfu’s olive harvest, offering the chance to experience olive oil tastings and hands-on activities celebrating the island’s rich olive-growing heritage.
Maldives
The Maldives’ dry season may begin in December, but that doesn’t mean autumn should be overlooked. With balmy temperatures and warm seas, you can embrace the slower pace of island life, from days spent on white-sand beaches to diving, snorkelling and swimming in the brilliant turquoise waters. And should you get caught in a passing shower, it’s the perfect excuse to luxuriate in your resort’s tranquil overwater spa.
We Recommend: Sirri Fen Fushi
Translated as ‘Secret Water Island’, Sirru Fen Fushi Private Lagoon Resort places you in a blissful paradise. From the moment you arrive by seaplane, the tranquillity of a 600-hectare private lagoon sets the scene for your autumn escape, while a 9km house reef offers the chance to dive among resident sea turtles and vibrant marine life.
Part of The Leading Hotels of the World collection, you can expect a dedicated villa host 24/7, a 200m infinity pool and perhaps its most unique draw, The Coralarium – an underwater art installation designed as a coral regeneration project.
We Recommend: The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands
For contemporary Maldivian luxury with the whole family in mind, look to The Ritz-Carlton Maldives, Fari Islands. On arrival, you’ll be welcomed by your Aris Meehaa, your personal host, accompanied by an authentic greeting of Boduberu drums and the traditional blowing of Sangu shells.
Younger travellers will be welcomed at Ritz Kids, with activities inspired by the natural environment and Maldivian culture offering a varied programme for ages 4-12, while parents retreat to the striking ring-shaped spa, suspended over the turquoise lagoon.
Ready to plan your autumn escape?
Whether you’re dreaming of autumn sunshine, colourful landscapes or a seasonal escape somewhere new, our Relationship Managers can create a tailor-made holiday around exactly what you’re looking for.
Explore our complete portfolio or speak to our team to start planning your next escape.
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