There’s a perfect destination for Brits looking to escape the dreary weather this October – whether you’re looking for family fun in a vibrant resort, or peace and quiet in a truly unique landscape
Flamingo Beach (Playa Flamingo) is a sheltered, white-sand beach in the south of Lanzarote(Image: Getty Images)
With the temperatures dropping in the UK, many of us are looking for a last-minute break to soak up some final sunshine. And there is a destination just a short flight away that promises warm weather, beautiful beaches, delicious food and a host of fun activities – perfect for half term!
Lanzarote forms part of the Canary Islands; a Spanish island group located off the coast of Africa. It’s a popular tourist destination, and with good reason. Located just a four-hour flight away, its all-inclusive resorts are particularly popular with holidaymakers on a budget, and there are also more high-end options if you feel like treating yourself.
Whether you are looking for lively tourist resorts or inland villages with peace and quiet there’s something for everyone, with large hotels of the coastal towns coexisting with rural houses, villas and boutique hotels.
October is also the perfect time to visit Lanzarote if you’re after sunshine, with an average of 7 hours daily, and a comfortable peak temperature averaging 26.8C, and 19C at its coolest during the night.
Rain during this month is at most moderate with an average of 11mm, and in comparison to the summer months, the wind speed also drops during October to around 11.1mph.
Then there’s the landscape. Lanzarote has it all; mountains, lunar-style craters, black sand beaches, red terrain, white sands, beautiful azure seas, and even a live volcano – Mount Timanfaya – complete with centuries-old lava fields.
One of Lanzarote’s biggest draws are its beaches, including Playa Blanca, Arrecife and Puerto del Carmen. And there’s plenty on offer for waterbabies, too, with surfing, kiteboarding, windsurfing and scuba diving available.
Many of the island’s beaches are perfect for the smaller family members, as they are protected from waves and currents, as are the natural pools that have formed in the shelter of lava flows after eruptions.
There are also beaches for those who like waves and long walks by the sea, or alternatively lively beaches and marinas with all leisure services, restaurants and shops.
If seafood is your thing, then you’re in luck. Fresh produce, from squid and tuna, to prawns and octopus, you can tuck into some delicious dishes. Or, of course, you can opt for some typical Spanish specialities, like paella.
Lanzarote is also home to almost 20 commercial vineyards and many more private growers.
White has been the main wine from the native Malvasia, Moscatel and Diego grape varieties. In addition Lanzarote has some lovely reds from the Listan Negro and increasingly Syrah varieties. Book in for a tasting session or a vineyard tour to see what’s on offer.
I wake to the peal of church bells as sunlight streams into my room and go out on to the balcony to look up at Mount Storžič.My base, Senkova Domačija, an organic family-run farm just outside the village of Jezersko, is so picturesque it looks like an AI hallucination: an ancient farmhouse with beautiful wooden outbuildings, cows grazing in small green fields, organic vegetables growing neatly in rows, and a backdrop of some seriously dramatic mountains. The Slovenian capital Ljubljana may be less than an hour away, but here in the Jezersko valley, just 3 miles from the Austrian border, it feels like another world.
Bordered on the east by the Kamnik-Savinja Alps, and on the west by the peaks of the Karavanke mountain range, and with a tranquil green lake at the bottom of the valley, there’s a tangible sense of apartness – an idyllic escape from the world.
Before being confiscated by the communists in 1947, the farm had been in the same family for more than 500 years. It was returned in 2005 and passed down to current owner, Polona, by her grandmother. Today, three generations of her family live here and it’s very much a working farm as well as a place to stay. There’s camping in the meadow under the ash trees in summer (bring your own tent), parking for caravans and a choice of simple rooms and self-catering apartments in the farm buildings. Mine, up in the attic of the ancient farmhouse, has been restored using reclaimed wood. Resident goats, two big dogs, cats and chickens wander free-range, and Jezersko–Solčava sheep graze in the fields – though in summer they are taken up to the alpine pastures.
It’s all very eco. Water comes from a glacier, heating is generated by wood chips from trees felled in the local forest, and all food is organic and grown on site (three polytunnels mean vegetables are harvested year-round). With the addition of new solar panels, the farm hopes to be fully self-sustaining next year.
Mountain stream-fed Lake Planšar is perfect for a bracing dip. Photograph: 24K-Production/Alamy
Volunteers return time and again to help out in exchange for food and accommodation. Peggy and Pat Rebol, who’ve come from the US for the third time, tell me: “This place is magic, it’s not only the lake and the valley, it’s the people – this family captured our hearts and all we want to do is keep coming back.”
I’ve come here to hike, so after a breakfast of meats and cheeses, homemade yoghurt and freshly collected eggs, I set out with Drejc Karničar, Polona’s husband (who also happens to be mayor of Jezersko’s 700 inhabitants). As we walk through forest towards the mountains, Drejc points out a rare “golden shoes” orchid at the edge of the wood. I’m not much of a botanist but this delightful plant lives up to its name – each yellow flower looks exactly like a Cinderella shoe. “They only bloom for 14 days,” says Drejc, “you’re lucky.”
We make our way up to Češka koča (the Czech hut), a mountain lodge that was named Slovenia’s “hut of the year” in 2024. You can stay overnight or just grab a hearty lunch on the way up the mountain (the hut is open June to September; book by phone on +386 4028 3300). These high alpine slopes are where Drejc drives his sheep to graze for the summer. They used to go to a different pasture, he tells me, but that was on the bears’ commuting path and “those bears had a party”.
The hike up feels like an Indiana Jones obstacle course, with wire cables screwed into the sheer mountain sides, wooden bridges and at one point a ladder across the rock.Drejc comes up to check on the sheep once a week in summer and brings them salt, essential to their diet.
A room at Senkova Domačija
The next day, I set my sights on summiting Velika Baba, known locally as Mount Baba, about 15 minutes’ drive from the farm. This is a far more demanding climb, so I’m accompanied by expert mountain guide Tomo Česen. As we walk through the forest and climb towards the summit vibrant blue alpine flowers are strewn across the rocks, and purple heather borders the trail. There are no cables and the exposed ridge is slightly terrifying. I’m roped to Tomo for safety and scramble along, trying not to look down. Just as I reach the top, the clouds part cinematically, the sky clears, the snowy mountain peaks gleam white against the blue and I catch my breath – literally and figuratively.
Tomo tells me this ridge marks the border between Austria and Slovenia, and on the way back we pass one of the original border stones, engraved with “SR” for Slovenian Republic. I pause for a moment, with one foot in Austria and the other in Slovenia, thinking I need to brush up on my history.
Supper back at the farm is cooked by Polona (available Tuesday to Saturday, book in advance) and served outside, weather-permitting, accompanied by a panoramic view of the mountains. I tuck into Slovenian beef noodle soup, “Easter bread” (simple and rustic) with home-made salami, and lamb and potatoes with salad from the greenhouses.
The area is characterised by meadows, mountains and ornate churches. Photograph: Aliaksandr Mazurkevich/Alamy
The next day I cycle from the farm down to the village through an avenue of ash trees and across a flower meadow, known locally as “frog square”, to meet Tanja Rebolj, a self-taught čarovnica(herbalist), who makes a variety of teas, jams and herb-infused liquors that she sells from her home. She tells me there are more than 1,200 species of plant in the valley, one of the richest places to forage in Slovenia – and she sometimes runs workshops on herbs for visitors.
Alongside its abundance of flowers and herbs, Jezersko is also one of the most densely forested valleys in the country, and Andreja Košir is my guide to the woods. A former UN translator, she now leads various forest experiences (family audio walk, €210). Hooked up with super-sensitive microphones and recording equipment, we stroll among the trees pausing to listen and record the “hidden sounds of nature”. An ants’ nest sounds just as frenetic as you might imagine. And when Andreja inserts specialist needle microphones into the earth, I hear water moving deep underground. “What fascinates me about nature,” she says, “is that trees can communicate so well. Beech trees are especially talkative – they exchange lots of information.”
We have time, too, to simply relax in the woods. Swinging in a hammock, I glimpse the sky through the canopy, bird song rings out around me. A simple pleasure, but I leave with a profound feeling of wellbeing.
Centuries ago, Jezersko was covered with a massive glacial lake, but an earthquake caused it to drain away in the 14th century. Today, the emerald green, heart-shaped, artificial Lake Planšar, proves irresistible as I cycle past. I gasp as I jump in – it’s bone-jarringly cold and I emerge flushed pink and energised, then ride home through sunlit meadows.
On my last day, as the bells of St Andrej’s church ring out the hour, volunteers are busy in the farm’s Peter Rabbit gardens, chickens scratch at the grass and the sun slants through the apple trees. I take one last look up at Mount Baba before turning for home, feeling clearer and lighter. Mountains, forests and fairytale flowers, long hikes, cold swims and nurturing organic food … sometimes it’s the simple things that make for a magical holiday.
The trip was supported by the Slovenian Tourist Board and Šenkova Domačija farm. Rooms from €119 B&B; dinner €30 (book in advance); apartment for four from €165; camping from €12
Laura Coffey’s book, Enchanted Islands: Travels Through Myth and Magic, Love & Loss, is now available in paperback (Summersdale, £10.99).To support the Guardian and Observer, order your copy at guardianbookshop.com. Delivery charges may apply
Southwold in Suffolk is known as ‘Chelsea-on-Sea’ – it’s a popular spot for holidaymakers and boasts a high street almost entirely populated by independent shops
Southwold in Suffolk has gained a reputation as one of the UK’s most upmarket town(Image: Getty Images)
This charming Suffolk village is known for its exclusive atmosphere, with a high street almost entirely filled with independent shops and cafes. Often dubbed Chelsea-on-Sea, this scenic town is the perfect spot for those in search of unique shopping experiences and snug cafes, all set against the stunning backdrop of a beautiful beach and striking seaside landmarks.
Southwold in Suffolk has gained a reputation as one of the UK’s most upmarket towns. Its town council has consistently blocked attempts by chains such as Costa and Waterstones to set up shop here. However, Waterstones was eventually allowed to open, on the condition that it kept the name of its predecessor, Southwold Books.
Beach huts along the beach in Southwold(Image: Getty Images)
As a result, the town is primarily made up of independent businesses, ranging from quaint cafes to unique shops like the Amber Shop, which specialises in amber jewellery and even boasts an accompanying museum.
Among the town’s landmarks is its impressive lighthouse, built in 1890. It houses a rotating 150-watt lamp with a range of 24 nautical miles.
Visitors can even take tours of the lighthouse, courtesy of the local Adnams Brewery, reports the Express. Southwold Pier is a hub of traditional seaside entertainment, with model yacht regattas regularly held on its boating pond, a tradition dating back to the Victorian era.
At the end of the pier, you’ll discover a quirky collection of coin-operated arcade machines, crafted by artist and engineer Tim Hunkin, with paddle steamers often docking nearby.
Southwold has a famous pier and lighthouse(Image: Getty Images)
The Southwold Museum offers visitors a chance to delve into the town’s history, showcasing a variety of exhibits on its local and natural history.
Southwold has a rich history, having been home to George Orwell during his formative years and again in his 30s, where he wrote some of his books.
Like many coastal towns, Southwold’s main attraction is its beach, featuring golden sands overlooked by charming colourful beach huts. Despite some tourists claiming the town is on the decline, it hasn’t deterred many visitors who are still drawn to its charm.
For those wishing to experience Southwold first-hand, a double room at Amber House can be booked for approximately £85 per night.
If you’re looking for a staycation idea, we’ve found a charming two-bedroom apartment near Whitby in North Yorkshire with loads of five star reviews and availability in summer
12:07, 23 May 2025Updated 13:04, 23 May 2025
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We found a charming apartment near Whitby(Image: Getty)
British breaks are always a popular type of holiday, and if you’re considering visiting the Yorkshire coast on your UK staycation this summer, we’ve found a beautiful two-person holiday apartment available to rent that comes highly recommended by previous guests.
Brambles Apartment, available to book via Sykes Cottages, is a cosy and comfy first-floor holiday rental in Sneatonthorpe near Ruswarp in the North York Moors National Park, around 10 minutes from the popular seaside town of Whitby. With light and airy ‘country chic’ decor, it features an open-plan kitchen and living space, a smart TV and a small shared garden, with one previous guest calling it “a great base for exploring Whitby and the surrounding area”.
In fact, Brambles Apartment only has five star reviews on the Sykes website, with visitors praising the hosts, the high standard of the property, and the “excellent views”:
“First class apartment, clean, comfortable lovely views from the windows and in a peaceful location,” one of the reviews is titled. “A very enjoyable week, would definitely recommend Brambles apartment,” the writer adds.
“Lovely stay in a great and comfortable apartment with beautiful views,” another guest agrees.
“So cosy, peaceful, clean and comfy, and a great base for exploring Whitby and the surrounding area,” a third review reads. “One of the nicest we’ve stayed in, and we would not hesitate to book again next time we visit! A definite recommend!”
Guests compliment the lovely hosts and views(Image: Sykes Cottages)
The description on the Sykes website explains that Whitby Abbey, Whitby Harbour and the Captain Cook Memorial Museum are all within easy reach, as are Whitby Beach and Robin’s Hood Bay Beach, as well as the picturesque North York Moors National Park.
If you’re tempted, you’ll be happy to hear that Brambles Apartment still has lots of availability over the coming months, including during the school holidays. According to the Sykes website, a seven-night stay from 18-25 July costs from £677 (down from £981), while a long weekend in August, from 15-18, also costs from £677, down from £1,114).
It’s worth noting that Brambles Apartment doesn’t accept pets, so if you’re looking for somewhere to stay with a dog, you might want to check out other nearby Sykes Cottages properties such as Lythe Cottage or Jet Cottage.
Holiday Cottages is another site to browse for inspiration, which features charming Whitby properties including Sandy Shores, Lavender House and Dean Cottage.
Holidaymakers can stay in Whitby Lighthouse via Rural Retreats(Image: Rural Retreats)
And if you fancy something a little different, how about staying in Whitby Lighthouse? Guests can book one of two rental properties in the lighthouse – Galatea and Vanguard – through Rural Retreats.
Don’t want to drive to your holiday hotspot this summer? Find the cheapest train tickets through Trainline, where customers can save 61% on average when they book them in advance.
