Autumn is approaching and with it, the desire to escape the first frosts. If you are looking for a destination to extend the summer, Crete is an excellent choice. This Greek island, in the heart of the Mediterranean, has just been named the best autumn destination by the Lonely Planet guide. A well-deserved distinction as Crete offers so many assets to seduce travelers in search of sun and a change of scenery.
Crete, uAn ideal climate to extend the summer
One of the main attractions of Crete is its exceptional climate. As autumn gradually sets in across Europe, the Greek island continues to enjoy mild temperatures. In September and October, temperatures hover between 20 and 25 degrees, providing ideal conditions for enjoying the beaches and exploring the island. In November, nights will be cooler but during the day, temperatures above 20°C are common.
The sea Mediterraneanfor its part, maintains a particularly pleasant temperature, around 24 degrees. This water heat persists well after the summer, allowing bathers to enjoy aquatic pleasures until October, or even November for the bravest.
Crete is known for its beautiful beaches, and autumn is the perfect time to enjoy them away from the hustle and bustle of summer. The beach from Elafonisiwith its pink sand and crystal clear waters, offers a unique spectacle under the autumn light. The lagoon of Balloswith its turquoise waters and white sand, welcomes you in a more intimate atmosphere this season. The beach of Prevelilined with palm trees and located at the mouth of a river, creates a unique ecosystem to explore out of season.
These beaches, as well as many other coves and bays, offer you the opportunity to bathe in still warm waters while enjoying an appreciable tranquility. The late season is indeed the ideal time to discover these magnificent natural sites without the summer crowds.
Discovering Cretan treasures
Crete is not just about its dream beaches. The island is home to many treasures that are worth exploring, especially in autumn when the milder temperatures, after an often scorching summer, make excursions pleasant.
The Palace of Knossos, near Heraklion, is a must-see. This vast architectural complex, dating from the Bronze Age, is a testament to the grandeur of the Minoan civilization. In autumn, you can explore its halls, frescoes and famous labyrinth in a more serene atmosphere.
The city of Chania is also worth a visit. Its Venetian harbor, narrow streets and buildings with diverse influences tell the rich and eventful history of the island. In autumn, you will enjoy strolling through its picturesque streets without the overwhelming heat of summer.
Beyond its coastline, Crete offers contrasting landscapes that lend themselves particularly well to autumn exploration. The Samaria Gorge, one of the longest canyons in Europe, is a memorable hiking experience. The Lassithi Plateau, nestled at 800 metres above sea level, offers a bucolic landscape dotted with windmills. Mount Ida, the island’s highest point, is a place steeped in mythology and offers spectacular views.
Crete in autumn offers a multitude of activities. Water sports remain possible thanks to the mild sea temperature. Scuba diving and snorkeling are particularly enjoyable at this time, with calmer waters and increased visibility.
Other possibilities for a sunny autumn in Europe
Although Crete stands out as a top destination for autumn, other European regions also offer great opportunities to extend summer.
There French Riviera French Riviera enjoys a particularly mild climate in autumn. Temperatures remain mild and the sea remains at a pleasant temperature, around 22°C in September. La Croisette beach in Cannes welcomes you in an elegant setting, ideal for enjoying the last rays of sunshine of the season. The coves of the Esterel massif offer spectacular landscapes between sea and red rocks, perfect for autumn hikes. La Garoupe beach at Cap d’Antibes will charm you with its discreet atmosphere and crystal clear water. The late season is ideal for discovering the charm of the French Riviera in complete tranquility, far from the summer hustle and bustle.
The Spanish archipelago of Balearic Islands maintains a mild climate in autumn, ideal for seaside activities and exploration. In Mallorca, Cala Mondragó offers turquoise waters in a preserved natural setting. In autumn, you can enjoy its beauty in a more serene atmosphere. Menorca and its coves invite you to explore. The Camí de Cavalls, a path that goes around the island, is particularly pleasant to walk at this time of year. Ibiza, beyond its festive reputation, offers white sand beaches and clear waters. In autumn, the island regains its authenticity and you can explore its typical villages in complete tranquility.
There Croatiawith its Adriatic coast, offers beautiful beaches in a unique historical setting. In autumn, temperatures remain pleasant and the sea is still suitable for swimming. Zlatni Rat Beach on the island of Brač, with its characteristic point shape, is an exceptional site to discover out of season. The coves of the Kornati Islands National Park offer you an ideal setting for swimming and snorkeling, in waters that are still warm in autumn. Sakarun Beach on the island of Dugi Otok will seduce you with its fine sand and turquoise waters, in a more intimate atmosphere than in the middle of summer.
