There's something to be said for travelling outside the summer months.

The beaches are quieter, restaurant reservations become easier to find, and cities settle back into their own rhythm. The days may be shorter, but in the right places, there's still plenty of sunshine to be found.

For those not quite ready to leave summer behind, autumn offers a different kind of escape. From the courtyards of Marrakech to the coastal towns of Sicily, these are 4 destinations we return to when the seasons begin to change.

 

 

Marrakech, Morocco

For golden afternoons and a slower pace.

October is one of the most inviting times to experience Marrakech. The intense heat of summer begins to ease, making it easier to explore the medina, discover the city's gardens and spend long afternoons on a rooftop terrace.

Start the morning among the winding streets of the old city, where traditional workshops sit alongside contemporary galleries and independent design studios. Beyond the medina, the gardens and architecture of Marrakech offer a different perspective on a city that continues to inspire artists, designers and travellers.

For somewhere to stay, El Fenn brings together Moroccan craftsmanship, contemporary art and an unmistakable sense of place. Its rooftop is particularly inviting as the afternoon light begins to soften.

Marrakech has always been central to the Palmaráe story. It's a city defined by colour, texture and contrast, where tradition and contemporary culture sit comfortably alongside one another.

 

 

Sicily, Italy

For coastal towns, late lunches and the last of the Mediterranean sun.

By October, Sicily takes on a different character. The busiest weeks of summer are behind it, yet the island retains much of its warmth.

In Taormina, the terraces overlooking the Ionian Sea offer an excellent setting for a late lunch. Further south, Ortigia's narrow streets, Baroque architecture and waterfront restaurants make it an ideal place to explore without a particular itinerary.

Sicily is best enjoyed without rushing. A morning spent wandering through a local market, an afternoon by the water and an evening discovering somewhere new for dinner.

For a memorable stay, Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo combines historic surroundings with views towards Mount Etna and the coastline.

There are few better places to extend the Mediterranean season.

 

 

Lisbon, Portugal

For tiled streets, neighbourhood restaurants and Atlantic light.

Lisbon is a city that rewards curiosity, particularly in autumn when the summer crowds begin to thin.

Spend a morning exploring the narrow streets of Alfama, where tiled façades, neighbourhood cafés and unexpected viewpoints make wandering part of the experience. Cross into Chiado for independent shops and galleries, or head towards the waterfront as the afternoon draws to a close.

The city's restaurant scene is another reason to visit. From traditional Portuguese cooking to contemporary dining rooms, Lisbon offers plenty of reasons to make an evening of it.

For a stay that feels connected to the city, Palácio Príncipe Real offers a quieter retreat within walking distance of some of Lisbon's most interesting neighbourhoods.

It's a city that feels equally suited to a long weekend or a more spontaneous escape.

 

 

The French Riviera, France

For the coast without the crowds.

The Riviera is often associated with the height of summer, but there's a particular appeal to visiting once the season begins to wind down.

The coastline feels more relaxed, the beaches are quieter and the towns regain some of their everyday character.

Around Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, coastal paths reveal views across the Mediterranean, while nearby Villefranche-sur-Mer offers colourful streets, a picturesque harbour and restaurants overlooking the water.

For a memorable afternoon, explore the gardens of Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild, where the architecture and surrounding landscape are worth the visit alone.

October on the Riviera is less about the beach clubs and more about the places themselves. Good food, coastal walks and the occasional afternoon warm enough to make you forget the time of year.

 

A Different Kind of Golden Hour

The appeal of an autumn escape isn't necessarily about chasing summer. It's about discovering familiar places in a different light.

A quieter terrace in Sicily. The late afternoon sun across Marrakech's rooftops. A long lunch in Lisbon that turns into an evening by the water.

Wherever the season takes you, there's always somewhere worth discovering.

Palmaráe. Pairs Well with Paradise.