Best Late-Summer Escapes: Where To Go In Late September

September is a great month to travel, as the summer holidays are over, and the crowds have dispersed. The weather is still warm in many places, and hotel and flight prices tend to be lower.

For those looking for a nature-filled adventure, there are plenty of options. Moab, Utah is ideal for hiking, horseback riding, rafting, biking and stargazing. The Grand Canyon National Park is another option, as the summer crowds have gone back to school, and the weather is slightly cooler. In the UK, the Cotswolds is a great option, as the harvest is in full swing, and the local produce is at its best.

If you're looking for a city break, there are plenty of options to choose from. In Europe, Lisbon, Ibiza, and Barcelona are all still warm in September, and you'll have the added benefit of the cities being less crowded. Further afield, Kyoto, Japan, is a great option, as the weather is gorgeous, and hotel prices are lower. In South Africa, Cape Town is a great option, as it's the perfect time for whale-watching.

For those looking to relax on a beach, there are plenty of options, too. The Greek island of Santorini is a great option, as the weather is warm, and the waters are perfect for swimming. In the US, Oahu, Hawaii is a good choice, as it sees fewer tourists but still offers hot, dry weather.

National Parks in the US

The USA is home to over 60 national parks, offering a diverse range of experiences and landscapes to explore. From the majestic mountains to the unique desert environments, there is a park to suit every nature enthusiast. With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, late September is an ideal time to visit many of these parks.

Yosemite National Park, California

Located in California's Sierra Nevada mountains, Yosemite is known for its granite cliffs, waterfalls, and giant sequoia groves. By late September, the park's many waterfalls are still flowing, and the summer crowds have largely dispersed. This is a great time to hike the park's numerous trails, including the challenging but rewarding Half Dome, or the scenic trail to Tuolumne Grove, home to some of the park's oldest sequoias.

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

The Grand Canyon is a stunning, iconic destination at any time of year, but late September brings ideal conditions for hiking and camping. With milder temperatures, you can explore the canyon's rims and trails without the searing heat of summer. The park offers a range of hiking trails to suit all abilities, from the easy Rim Trail to the challenging South Kaibab Trail.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

This park is a nature lover's paradise, with an abundance of wildlife and stunning scenery. Late September is a particularly special time to visit, as the park's aspen trees put on a dazzling display of golden foliage. The park offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting, with elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears among the residents.

Zion National Park, Utah

Zion is a spectacular park in Utah's desert landscape, characterised by its red sandstone cliffs and canyons. September is a great time to visit, as the summer heat begins to ease, making it more comfortable for hiking the park's many trails, including the famous Angels Landing. The park also offers excellent stargazing opportunities, thanks to clear, dark skies.

Each of these parks offers a unique experience, showcasing the diverse natural wonders of the USA. Late September is an ideal time to visit, with more comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and adventure of these destinations.

Island escapes

If you're looking for an island escape, there are plenty of options in September. Here are some suggestions:

Caribbean

The Caribbean is a great choice for sun, sea and sand in September. With hot, sultry weather and relatively quiet beaches, you can enjoy cocktails, cuisine and dreamy beaches. Old San Juan in Puerto Rico offers colourful sights and sounds, with the added bonus of two fortifications, Castillo San Cristóbal and El Morro, dating back to 1533. For a more natural experience, try snorkelling in Escambrón Marine Park, also in Puerto Rico, where you can spot blue tang, damselfish and striped sergeant major fish.

Santorini, Greece

With average temperatures in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit, September is a great time to visit the Greek island of Santorini. You can swim at some of Greece's best beaches, such as Red Beach and Kamari Beach, and enjoy alfresco dining along Amoudi Bay. Hike the 6 miles from Fira to Oia to take in the stunning natural beauty of the island.

Whitsunday Islands, Australia

In September, this chain of 74 islands off the coast of Queensland, Australia, boasts low humidity and consistently sunny skies, with temperatures between the high 70s and low 80s Fahrenheit. Lounge on the postcard-worthy beaches, or try snorkelling, scuba diving and sailing.

Corfu, Greece

September is a great time to visit Corfu, Greece, when the morning swims are warm and delicious, and the island's forested hills are still green. At Domes Miramare, once the summer mansion of Aristotle Onassis, you can enjoy a private beach and an adults-only hotel. For a glamorous resort with private pools, try Grecotel Corfu Imperial.

Bali

Bali is a great choice for September travel, with warm temperatures and virtually no rainfall. Explore the famous temples, gardens and monkeys, and enjoy the surfing beaches. For a spiritual experience with Hindu water blessings and chakra healers, try COMO Shambhala Estate.

Sicily, Italy

September is a wonderful time to visit Sicily, when the wild and beautiful beaches are never crowded, and the weather is still warm enough for exploring the labyrinthine streets of its enchanting towns. Enjoy memorable meals featuring fresh produce from Etna's rich national park. Stay at the Belmond Grand Hotel Timeo, where the pool views are as good as the balcony views.

Fiji

September is one of the best months to visit Fiji, as the summer crowds have dispersed, and the weather is balmy and clear. It's also the middle of humpback whale mating season, so you may spot some gentle giants while diving. Stay at the exclusive Kokomo Private Island Resort, a Condé Nast Traveler Gold List 2024 pick, with just 25 rooms and exclusive villas.

Amalfi Coast, Italy

The Amalfi Coast is best visited in September, when the temperatures are comfortable and the crowds have lessened. Explore the colourful towns along the coastline, such as Positano and Ravello. Stay at the Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa, a restored 17th-century monastery just three miles from Amalfi, offering a clifftop pool and spa.

European city breaks

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Amsterdam is at its best in the autumn, when the summer crowds have faded and the leaves on the trees along the canals turn brown, revealing even better views of historic gables. Head to the Van Gogh Museum to see the famous paintings without the crowds, then stroll through the Spiegekwartier arts and antiques district and the Grachtengordel district. Stay at the quirky Pulitzer Amsterdam, located in a prime spot overlooking two canals, or opt for the hip Mr. Jordaan, with quirky individual charm and comfortable rooms, some with canal views.

Barcelona, Spain

Autumn is when Barcelona truly comes alive, with a full programme of events and exhibitions. You can admire the human pyramids, fire-breathing dragons and fibre-glass giants of Barcelona's autumn festivals, and in the run-up to Christmas, don't miss the fairytale market around the Cathedral. Stay at the stylish and unstuffy Serras Hotel Barcelona, which offers a rooftop bar and pool overlooking the port, or the calming Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa, a 19th-century textiles factory transformed into a 60-room boutique hotel.

Berlin, Germany

Berlin is at its most charming in the autumn, thanks to its abundant parks, public gardens and tree-lined streets, which transform into a blaze of reds, oranges and yellows. If you're short on time, skip the busy Checkpoint Charlie Museum and instead visit the neighbouring BlackBox Cold War Museum, the Asisi Panorama and the free outdoor photo exhibition. Stay at the flamboyant and seductive Hotel Adlon Kempinski Berlin, or the swish Hotel am Steinplatz Berlin, with its Michelin-starred cuisine and Susanne Kaufmann spa.

Bruges, Belgium

The Winter Glow festival runs from November 22nd to January 5th, featuring an atmospheric Christmas market in the historic city centre, as well as illuminated walks and an artificial ice rink on the Minnewater lake. Stay at the luxurious Hotel Van Cleef, a small boutique hotel in a neoclassical mansion overlooking a canal, or the Hotel Dukes' Palace, the only five-star hotel in Bruges, with a relaxed and professional atmosphere.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is lovely in the autumn, when the sun mellows and the parks turn honey-coloured. Visit during the CAFe Contemporary Arts Festival, when performances of music, dance and theatre are staged in almost 50 venues across the city. Stay at the Matild Palace, which combines yesteryear elegance with cutting-edge in-room facilities, or the Anantara New York Palace, a hotel of dramatic flourishes.

Edinburgh, Scotland

Edinburgh's New Town takes on a golden glow in the soft autumn light, and the Old Town becomes atmospherically moody as the evenings draw in. The city has festivals every month of the year, including film, jazz and food festivals. Stay at the chic Gleneagles Townhouse, or the quietly elegant Balmoral, which has offered superlative service since the 19th century.

Adventure holidays

September is a great time for an adventure holiday, with warm weather in many destinations and fewer crowds as the summer holidays come to an end. Here are some suggestions for adventure holidays to take in September:

• Greece and its islands offer the chance to enjoy white sand beaches and boat rides with fewer people. The water is still warm, and you can sip fruity drinks and enjoy fresh seafood and tzatziki.
• Venice, Italy is a good option in September, with average temperatures of 24°C. You can zip around the canals in Motoscafi or take a gondola ride. There is also plenty of art and history to explore, and the occasional rainfall will make the canals even more atmospheric.
• Cairns, Australia is a nature lover's paradise in September, which marks the start of spring in the Southern Hemisphere. You can admire the Great Barrier Reef, one of the top bucket list views, and the Daintree Rainforest.
• The French Riviera is best visited at the end of summer when the charming towns and villages are less crowded. You can swim in the glittering sea near Menton and Antibes, and enjoy the celebrity hotspots of Cannes and St. Tropez.
• Jaipur, India is known as the Pink City, and is filled with stunning architecture. Between July and September is India's monsoon season, but Jaipur doesn't see much rain, making it a perfect time to visit and explore the city's colourful sights.
• Rio de Janeiro, Brazil is a great destination in September if you want to avoid the scorching summer heat. Temperatures settle at a comfortable high of 25°C, making it perfect for hang gliding, admiring Christ the Redeemer, and enjoying the beaches.
• Thailand in September offers long hours of sunshine, ethical elephant sanctuaries in Phuket and Chiang Mai, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful temples. It's also mango season, so you can enjoy juicy mangoes throughout your stay.
• Los Angeles, USA is ideal for a mix of city exploration and outdoor adventures. You can hike in the many national parks, jog along the seafront, and cruise through palm-tree-lined streets.
• Barcelona, Spain combines city life and beach life, with sunny weather in September. You can explore the unique architecture, such as the Sagrada Familia, and enjoy the city's vibrant culture and delicious food.
• Morocco in September offers a pleasant climate, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 28°C. You can choose between sunning on the shore or exploring the souks and medinas of cities like Fez and Marrakech.
• Kenya is one of the best places for a safari, and September is an excellent time to go. You'll have the chance to see the Great Migration, as well as an abundance of wildlife, including lions, zebras, and wildebeests.
• Mexico City, Mexico is a vibrant and exciting destination, with delicious food and a rich history. September offers mild temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the city's streets, trying street food, and visiting sites like Frida Kahlo's art and the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan.
• Japan is a great choice in September, as you'll find fewer crowds and some unique experiences. The Grand Sumo Tournament takes place during this month, and you can also enjoy the cherry blossoms in spring or the golden ginkgo trees in autumn.
• Vietnam in September marks the end of the humid season, with gentle heat and occasional rainfall. It's a great time to explore the iconic hikes, such as Sa Pa, and enjoy the idyllic beaches.
• New Zealand in September offers a mix of sun, rain, and cooler nights as it transitions into spring. Nature comes alive, with mirror-like lakes, purple and lilac lupins, and lush mountains. It's a perfect time for hiking and exploring the country's stunning natural landscapes.
• Türkiye is ideal for boat trips and relaxation in September. You can explore ancient ruins and relax in the iconic Turkish spas and baths.
• Jordan in September boasts warm and manageable weather, making it a great time to visit famous sites like Petra and Wadi Rum.
• Lisbon, Portugal is a charming European city with beautiful blue tiles and a lively port. September offers pleasant weather, and you can easily explore neighbouring cities and coasts, such as Porto and the Algarve.
• Berlin, Germany is a great choice for a mix of history and culture. September brings warmer temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the museums, clubs, and historical sites.
• Paris, France in September is a great time to visit as the summer heat has cooled off, but the sun still shines late into the evenings. You can explore classic spots like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Arc de Triomphe, or try more adventurous activities like water skiing on the Seine or hot air ballooning over the city.
• Barcelona, Spain is a glittering destination in September, with the La Mercè festival taking place to celebrate Catalan culture through street theatre, dance performances, and circus shows. Outside of the festival, you can enjoy mountain biking in the Serra de Collserola Natural Park or relax on the city's beaches.
• Moscow, Russia in September offers a break from the intense summer crowds and the winter frost. You can visit the Red Square and numerous museums and galleries, or try indoor skiing, skating, and swimming at a four-season ski centre. The Moscow River also offers outdoor activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.
• Iguazu Falls, Brazil/Argentina is a majestic waterfall system with more than 200 cascades reaching heights of around 270 feet. September is a great time to visit as the falls are not at their peak flow, offering partial views of the rock faces, and there are smaller crowds, giving you better views from the walkways and trails.
• Quebec, Canada in September offers the perfect balance of warm and cool weather. You can cycle along la Route Verte, a 5,000-km cycle path that takes you through cities, forests, fjords, and lakes. For a more adventurous experience, try canoeing in the Parc National de la Jacques-Cartier or zip-lining at Arbraska Duchesnay.
• Santorini, Greece is a stunning island with white-washed houses, blue roofs, and awe-inspiring sunsets. In September, the summer crowds have left, prices are lower, and the sun still shines late into the evening. You can go cliff jumping at Amoudi Bay, hike the Fira Trail, or explore the smoking volcanic crater.

Wildlife spotting

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho

Yellowstone National Park is the first national park ever created in the world, spanning 2.2 million acres across several mountain ranges, a dense forest, volcanic formations, and the highest altitude lake in North America. The park boasts what is known as 'America's Serengeti', or Lamar Valley, where a variety of wildlife can be found. There are 67 mammal species in the park, including bison, North American deer, coyotes, elk, mountain lions, and two types of bear. Most wildlife sightings occur at night, dawn, or dusk during the spring or early summer in areas such as Antelope Creek Meadows, Dunraven Pass, and Hayden Valley. To spot smaller bears, head towards the north of the park on the road between Elk Creek and Tower Falls. Fall is considered the best time to visit Yellowstone as the foliage is brilliant and bears bulk up for winter.

Alaska

Alaska is home to several national parks that offer diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. Denali National Park and Wildlife Preserve span 6 million acres and reach lofty heights of 20,320 feet. No cars are permitted beyond 15 miles into the park, so visitors can take a shuttle bus safari to spot Alaska's 'big 5': moose, grizzlies, Dall sheep, and wolves, as well as numerous bird and other mammal species. Kodiak National Wildlife Refuge lies among the fjords, glaciers, and mountains of Kodiak Country and is known for the huge Kodiak bear. Katmai National Park is great for bear watching but is slightly difficult to reach as no roads lead there. Glacier Bay National Park is best for marine life watching, with orcas, minke whales, humpbacks, and sea lions. Alaska Chilkat Eagle Preserve is home to the largest concentration of bald eagles in Alaska, with numbers peaking during the annual salmon run in July.

Rocky Mountain National Park, Colorado

This national park is within a day trip north of Denver and offers a variety of wildlife viewing opportunities. The park spans 265,800 acres and includes 72 mountain peaks higher than 12,000 feet, fir and spruce forests, alpine tundra, and river-run scenes. There are almost 800 kilometres of hiking trails, as well as driving and camping options. Wildlife in the park includes herds of elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and possibly mountain lions. Fall is a great time to visit as the forest canopy turns red and elks bugle wildly.

Glacier National Park, Montana

Montana's Glacier National Park offers more than just glaciers. This UNESCO-listed park straddles the US-Canada border across a million acres and is home to 270 species of bird and 70 species of mammal. Sloping forests, dazzling waterfalls, moose, bighorn sheep, white-tailed deer, and mountain goats can be spotted. Rarer sightings include mountain lions, lynx, grey wolves, wolverines, and grizzly bears. The grizzlies tend to make an appearance at Garden Wall, while Goat Lick Overlook and Going-to-the-Sun Road are great for spotting mountain goats. Activities such as backpacking, cycling, fishing, boating, and camping are popular between May and October when trails are least likely to be obstructed by snow.

Churchill, Canada

Churchill, on the west shore of the Hudson Bay, offers epic displays of arctic wildlife and marine mammals. Known as the polar bear capital of the world, Churchill is best visited in fall (October-November) to catch sight of bears migrating across the tundra. Birders can visit in spring or summer when gulls, ducks, loons, and falcons take to the skies. Summer is beluga season, when 57,000 beluga whales gather in the bay. Multi-day bear-tracking expeditions offer the chance to see black bears, Arctic fox, caribou, wolves, and various bird species.

Montague Island, New South Wales

Just six miles off the southern coastline of New South Wales, Montague Island is a remote playground offering crystal-clear waters for divers and anglers, a 19th-century lighthouse, and a diverse range of

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