Seize that gap for late-summer sun
NOW the school holidays are over, this is surely the most rewarding time of year for a cosy self-catering break. Rates have fallen from their summer heights by up to a whopping 50 per cent.
Yet you can still enjoy lovely late-season sunshine and benefit from clearer roads, near-empty beaches and free tables in the best restaurants.
It’s almost like having a fifth season of the year, which some have dubbed sortumn. Covering September and October, it’s that glorious period when there’s still summer warmth, but evenings are starting to draw in, giving more time for hot-tub stargazing under clear skies.
Last year, September was warmer than April and June, and it rained less in October than it did in either July or August. So seize that gap in the calendar and find your perfect sortumn self-catering break.
Dorset’s landscape looks more atmospheric than ever as the colours turn, particularly at dawn when the sun shines through the early mist. Sherborne Castle, Forde Abbey and Abbotsbury all have autumn colour events, while food festivals include Dorset Food Week, Weymouth Feast and the Sausage and Cider Festival in Corfe. Dogs can run free in dew-covered grass or chase waves on the beach during a stay at dog-friendly Golden Acre Holiday Bungalows at Eype.
South Devon has some fantastic food festivals between now and the end of October. These include the Taste of the Teign and the Powderham and Dartmouth food festivals, featuring top chefs and showcasing delicious local produce. Go to visitsouthdevon.co.uk.