Where to Go in October Half-Term

Curated Escapes for Every Kind of Traveller

October half-term is one of the travel calendar’s best-kept secrets. Summer crowds have faded, temperatures are still kind and it’s a great moment to pause and reconnect before winter sets in.

Let us show you what our kind of luxury looks like this October.

Atlantis the Palm, Dubai

1. For Families Who Need Sun & Space

Family-Friendly, Grown-Up Approved Escapes

Half-term isn’t just for the kids - it’s a precious opportunity for families to unwind together, without compromising on style or comfort.

Algarve, Portugal
A classic for good reason. With golden beaches, cliffside villas and sunny skies averaging 23°C in October, the Algarve offers low-key luxury and high convenience. Private villas with pools and chef service make life easy - and yes, the pastel de nata tastes better when eaten barefoot.

Dubai, UAE
Where thrilling waterparks, desert dune adventures and ultra-luxe hotels coexist in harmony. October is the sweet spot weatherwise - warm, but not scorching. We recommend resorts with kids’ clubs that feel more like mini adventure academies, while adults can enjoy sunset rooftop dining or indulgent hammam rituals.

Borgo Egnazia, Puglia

2. For Couples Craving Culture & Calm

Boutique Treasures for Two

When it comes to romantic getaways, October offers a quieter, more soulful rhythm - ideal for slow mornings, local wines and unhurried exploration.

Puglia, Italy
A region made for long lunches under pergolas and evening strolls through whitewashed towns. Stay in a restored masseria (farmhouse) with vineyard views and private pools. The summer rush is over, but the sun lingers.

Seville, Spain

Think sultry flamenco evenings, secret courtyards, and Moorish architecture glowing in the afternoon light. Boutique hotels housed in former palaces add charm, while tapas hopping offers a delicious taste of local life.

Insider tip: Ask us about the little-known rooftop bar overlooking the Cathedral - perfect for golden hour drinks for two.

Angsana Velavaru, The Maldives

3. For Those Who Want Serious Unwind Time

Switch-Off Spots Worth Travelling For

If October half-term is your annual moment to hit pause, these serene destinations deliver quiet indulgence and true escape.

The Maldives
White-sand islands, overwater villas and private spa rituals - the Maldives do relaxation like nowhere else. With easier direct flights and new family-friendly resorts, it’s more accessible than ever (without losing that feeling of total seclusion).

Madeira, Portugal
Understated, elegant, and lush with natural beauty. Perfect for gentle hikes, spa retreats and boutique stays with panoramic Atlantic views. It’s Europe, reimagined for tranquillity seekers.

Shamwari Private Game Reserve, South Africa

4. For the Adventure-Inclined (with Style)

Your Kind of Luxury, With a Wild Side

For families or couples who like their half-term with a dose of drama (the good kind!), these destinations deliver the thrill without sacrificing comfort.

South Africa
October is a fantastic time to visit - combine a Big Five safari with whale watching off the Cape, or vineyard tours in Stellenbosch. We’ll pair luxury lodges with hand-picked experiences, whether it’s sunrise game drives or private chef dinners in the bush.

Iceland
Northern Lights? Check. Glacier hikes? Absolutely. Boutique hotels with geothermal spas? Yup. Iceland is perfect for active families or couples looking for something wildly different.

Bahia del Duque, Tenerife

5. A Few More Favourites for October Half-Term

Still browsing? Here are a few more places we love at this time of year:

• Cyprus: 26°C sunshine, easy beach days, excellent hotels and ancient ruins to explore.

• Greek Islands: Late-season warmth, fewer crowds and charming coastal villas.

• Florida: Theme parks and Gulf Coast beaches wrapped in year-round sunshine. A dream for active families.

• Canary Islands: Short-haul ease with long-haul warmth. Bahia del Duque in Tenerife is the hotel we keep going back to.

• Thailand: West coast season starts - think Krabi, Phuket, and exclusive beach stays surrounded by jungle.

Prefer something off the beaten path? Our little black book is full of treasures - just ask.

Where to Next?

Whether you're craving downtime, sunshine or something a little more extraordinary, October half-term is a great time to get away. At Reigate Luxury Travel, every trip is tailored around you, from villa stays with toddler-ready pools to grown-up getaways where every detail is beautifully taken care of.

Thinking about a trip like this? Let’s create something together.
Prefer it tailor-made? We’ll design it around you.

FAQs: October Half-Term Travel

Where is hot in October for a family-friendly luxury holiday?
Destinations like the Algarve, Dubai, and Cyprus offer sunshine, short flights, and plenty of space to relax in style.

What are the best luxury European destinations for couples in October half-term?
Puglia and Seville offer quieter streets, warm weather, and beautifully romantic settings, ideal for an autumn escape for two.

Is it a good time to travel to the Maldives in October?
Yes! October sees lower humidity and fewer crowds, making it a perfect time for a luxury escape in the Maldives. Contact us for the low-down on the best resorts.

Destination focus: Tuscany

Your expert guide

Welcome to the heart of Italy, where rolling hills, vineyard-draped landscapes and timeless charm draw in everyone from A-listers to artists.

Tuscany is a dream destination for couples and families alike, with its hilltop towns, elegant villas, world-class food and wine and sun-drenched countryside. It’s one of the most enchanting (and accessible) spots in Europe, with direct flights into Florence and Pisa.

When to Book: Best times to visit & seasonal pricing

Peak Season | June – September
Tuscany is at its most vibrant in summer, with sun-drenched days, vineyard visits in full swing and warm evenings perfect for al fresco dining. Expect busy towns and higher prices, especially in August when Italians also holiday.

Best Value Luxury Season | April – May & October
Our top recommendation for a luxury Tuscan escape. The weather is mild, the countryside is in bloom (or glowing with autumn colour), and top hotels and villas offer better availability and pricing. Ideal for wine lovers, couples and those seeking peaceful, authentic experiences.

Off Peak | November – March
Quieter and cooler, but still full of charm. Some countryside properties close for the winter, but it’s a wonderful time for city stays in Florence or Siena, with fewer crowds and lower rates. Cosy up with hearty Tuscan food, truffle hunting and festive markets.

UK Travel Tip:
Book 6–9 months in advance for the best choice of boutique stays and private villas, especially for summer holidays and half term.

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Direct Flights from the UK to Tuscany

Tuscany is well connected and easy to reach from the UK, making it an ideal destination for a luxury European escape:

London to Florence or Pisa – Multiple daily flights from Heathrow, Gatwick, and London City with British Airways, easyJet and Vueling.

Regional Departures – Direct or one-stop flights from Manchester, Birmingham, Bristol and Edinburgh into Pisa or Florence.

Flight Duration: Around 2 hours 15 minutes direct

Premium Travel Services: We take care of the extras - from fast-track security and lounge access at your UK airport to private transfers on arrival in Italy. Prefer business class or a private villa arrival setup? Just ask.

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Our favourite Luxury Resorts in Tuscany

Rosewood Castiglion del Bosco

As family-friendly as it is luxurious, with multi-bedroom villas, a kids' club, cooking lessons, and family cycling routes.

Why it’s great for families: Combines independence with five-star service, and kids are truly welcomed.

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Borgo Santo Pietro

Elegant, romantic and impossibly pretty, this five-star boutique retreat near Siena has lush gardens, a dreamy spa and candlelit Michelin-starred dining.

Why it’s perfect: Total seclusion, indulgent suites with private terraces and impeccable service make this a top choice for a honeymoon in Tuscany.

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COMO Castello Del Nero

A former castle in Chianti turned luxury haven with panoramic views, a renowned wellness programme and stylish interiors.

Why it’s perfect: Couples can blend spa time with wine tasting and romantic countryside strolls.

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Argentario Golf & Wellness Resort

Sleek and modern, with a family-friendly atmosphere, a huge pool, golf, spa and nearby beaches of the southern Tuscany coast make this a great choice for families who like to stay active.

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Villas in Tuscany

Private villa rental in Tuscany

If hotels are not for you and you prefer something more discreet, a villa rental could be a great option for your holiday.

From countryside estates with sweeping views to elegant converted farmhouses and modern design-led retreats, Tuscany offers an incredible range of villas.

Reigate Luxury Travel works with a handpicked selection of trusted villa specialists across the region, giving you access to a wide variety of styles, sizes and budgets. Whether you're after a romantic hideaway for two, a large family villa with a private pool or a cluster of properties for a celebration, we’ll match you with the ideal option.

Looking for something walkable to restaurants or the beach? Want daily housekeeping or a private chef? Need heated pools, air conditioning or space for little ones to roam? Just let us know what matters most to you and we’ll narrow it down.

We can also package villas with flights and car hire to make your holiday seamless.

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Where to eat

Il Falconiere

Tuscany is a dream for food lovers - handmade pasta, local wines, truffle-laced dishes and farm-to-table freshness. Here are three unforgettable dining experiences to savour on your trip:

Osteria di Passignano – Chianti Classico region
Set within the grounds of the famed Antinori wine estate, this Michelin-starred osteria delivers refined Tuscan cuisine in a romantic, rustic setting. Book a tasting menu and pair it with estate wines for the full experience.

Perfect for: Wine lovers and romantic evenings

La Bottega del 30 – Castelnuovo Berardenga
This charming countryside restaurant holds a Michelin star and just 30 seats. Run by a passionate husband-and-wife team, it offers an elegant yet personal take on Tuscan cooking.

Perfect for: Intimate dinners and gourmet foodies

Ristorante Il Falconiere – Cortona
Set in a 17th-century estate with its own vineyard and Relais & Châteaux hotel, Il Falconiere blends fine dining with warm Italian hospitality. Expect creative interpretations of Tuscan classics, and don’t miss the wine tasting.

Perfect for: Celebratory meals and long lunches with a view

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Your Italy holiday consultation

Prefer a luxury villa in the hills or a suite in a five-star countryside retreat? Planning a romantic Tuscan honeymoon or a special family gathering? Whatever your vision, we'll tailor every detail to create your perfect escape.

Tuscany is calling. Let’s design your dream Italian getaway.

Contact Reigate Luxury Travel today for your complimentary holiday consultation.

Luxury Tuscany holidays | Italian travel experts | Reigate Luxury Travel

Destination focus: Barbados

Your expert guide

Welcome to the island where royalty, rockstars and the world's most discerning travellers come to unwind!

With fantastic restaurants, powder-soft sand beaches, lively streetlife and world-class hotels, Barbados is a must-visit location for couples and families alike. Barbados one of the safest places to visit in the Caribbean, and easy too - with direct flights from many British airports.

Why choose Barbados for your luxury Caribbean holiday?

Barbados offers a seamless blend of elegance, comfort and vibrant Caribbean charm.

With direct flights from the UK and quick, easy transfers, it's remarkably accessible for such an exclusive escape.

The island boasts some of the Caribbean’s most iconic luxury hotels, chic boutique resorts and private villas, many nestled along powder-soft beaches with crystal-clear waters and private access.

From award-winning restaurants to barefoot beachfront dining, the culinary scene is a major draw, with gourmet options to suit every palate.

All-inclusive stays offer indulgent ease, with unlimited dining, premium drinks and everything from water sports to live entertainment included.

Days can be spent snorkelling with turtles, teeing off on world-class golf courses or unwinding in oceanfront spas.

Rich in history and proud of its warm, welcoming culture, Barbados is known for its friendly hospitality and vibrant local charm.

Add discreet resorts favoured by celebrities, luxury shopping and the chance to craft bespoke experiences through concierge services, and it’s easy to see why Barbados is a top choice for a truly unforgettable luxury getaway.

Street food at Oistins Fish Fry

When to Book: Best times to visit & seasonal pricing

Peak Season | December – April Escape UK winter with picture-perfect Caribbean weather: endless sunshine, gentle trade winds and glorious beach days. Christmas in Barbados and New Year Caribbean celebrations bring glamour and festivity, but luxury resort availability is extremely limited.

Best Value Luxury Season | May – June Our recommendation for premium Barbados holidays without peak pricing. Gorgeous weather, lush tropical landscapes, excellent resort availability and lower prices on luxury accommodation. Perfect for couples seeking romantic Barbados getaways or families wanting all-inclusive holidays.

Shoulder Season | July – November Brief tropical showers alternate with brilliant sunshine, luxury resort rates soften significantly and the island blooms in natural beauty. Hurricane risk is minimal (less than 2% historical probability).

UK Travel Tip: Direct flights from London to Barbados operate year-round, with peak frequency December-April. Book luxury Barbados holidays 6-12 months ahead for best suite selection and pricing.

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Direct Flights from the UK to Barbados

Barbados offers exceptional flight connectivity from major UK airports, making your luxury Caribbean holiday easily accessible:

London Heathrow to Barbados – Up to 14 weekly direct flights with British Airways and Virgin Atlantic.

London Gatwick to Barbados – Direct flights during peak season with perfect timing for early resort check-ins or evening arrivals.

Birmingham to Barbados Direct – Seasonal non-stop services during peak months.

Manchester to Barbados – Direct flights available peak season, plus year-round connecting options via London.

Flight Duration: 8 hours 45 minutes direct

Premium Travel Services: We arrange fast-track security, airline lounge access, priority boarding and private airport transfers in Barbados.

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Our favourite Luxury Resorts in Barbados

Sandy Lane Resort Barbados - The Ultimate Caribbean Legend

The icon that defines Caribbean luxury holidays, Sandy Lane Resort sits on Barbados' prestigious Platinum Coast. Oversized marble suites, the world-renowned Green Monkey golf course and a tranquil spa make this 5-star Barbados resort a place where privacy, prestige and impeccable service converge.

Exclusive Access: The Green Monkey championship golf course is available only to Sandy Lane guests.

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Fairmont Royal Pavilion Barbados - Intimate Luxury

With just 72 oceanfront rooms, this romantic Barbados resort is all about sophisticated charm. Heritage elegance meets daily champagne rituals, while sea turtles swim past as you enjoy morning coffee from your private terrace. Perfect for luxury Barbados honeymoons and romantic Caribbean getaways.

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The 20th hole restaurant at Apes Hill, Barbados

Apes Hill Barbados - Eco-Luxury Villas

Perched 1,000 feet above sea level, these private Barbados villas offer panoramic Caribbean vistas and eco-conscious luxury. Open-air living, infinity pools and bespoke wellness experiences create the ultimate luxury villa holiday with plenty of space for all the family. Perfect for golfers appreciating the newly renovated championship course and families seeking space and serenity.

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Sandals Barbados All-Inclusive Luxury Resort

Two luxury all-inclusive Barbados resorts, one seamless experience. With 21 restaurants, 11 pools, rooftop infinity lounges and exclusive Butler Elite suites, you’ll be spoilt for choice with an all-inclusive holiday at this adults-only hotel.

Our Expertise: As part of Guru Travel Group, the UK's #1 Sandals travel agency, we unlock the best Barbados all-inclusive suites, preferred dining reservations and complimentary experiences.

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What to Do in Barbados

Mullins Beach, Barbados

Best Beaches

Paynes Bay Beach – Crystal-clear Caribbean waters perfect for paddleboarding and almost-guaranteed sea turtle encounters. Lined with luxury Barbados resorts, it's ideal for luxury beach days with premium amenities.

Bathsheba Beach – Dramatic Atlantic coastline with sculptural rock formations beloved by photographers and surfers. Less for swimming, more for gazing at the raw Caribbean natural beauty and Instagram-worthy sunset shots.

Mullins Beach – Vibrant and family-friendly, with premium beach bars like The Tides restaurant. Perfect social Caribbean atmosphere for luxury travellers seeking authentic Bajan beach culture.

Rum Tours & Tastings

Mount Gay Rum Distillery Tour - Discover the world's oldest rum distillery (est. 1703) through expertly guided premium tastings of aged expressions unavailable in UK stores. The essential Barbados cultural experience!

Foursquare Rum Distillery - Award-winning authentic Bajan rum experience, offering intimate distillery tours and premium tastings in lush, tropical surroundings. Perfect for rum connoisseurs.

St. Nicholas Abbey Heritage Tour - Historic 17th-century Jacobean mansion combining heritage tours, botanical gardens, and estate-produced rum tastings. Unique Barbados historical experience.

Luxury Spa Experiences

The Spa at Sandy Lane – The Caribbean's premier luxury spa featuring marble-clad treatment rooms and personalized wellness rituals.

Oasis Spa at Coral Reef Club – Garden pavilion spa treatments using indigenous Barbados botanicals in fragrant, tropical surroundings.

Championship Golf Courses

The Green Monkey Golf Course – Exclusively for Sandy Lane guests, this world-renowned course is carved into limestone quarry and offers dramatic ocean views. Green fees included for resort guests.

Apes Hill Golf Course – Recently renovated championship course with panoramic island vistas, raising Caribbean golf standards. Public access available.

Local festivals

Holetown Festival (February) – Vibrant celebration of Bajan history, crafts, music, and community spirit

Crop Over Festival (August) – The island's most exuberant carnival celebration with costumes and calypso

Independence Month (November) – National pride month featuring parades, festivals and family celebrations

Barbados Surf Festival (November) – International surfing competition with exceptional local cuisine and beachside atmosphere

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Where to eat

Champers restaurant, Barbados

The Cliff Restaurant – Barbados' most iconic fine dining experience, dramatically perched over turquoise Caribbean waters. Impeccable service and curated wine lists. Reservations essential!

Champers Restaurant – Elegant oceanfront dining where Caribbean ingredients meet international sophistication. Perfect for romantic luxury dinners with sunset views.

The Tides Restaurant – Chic West Coast Barbados favorite offering art-filled interiors, craft cocktails and beautifully presented, Instagram-worthy cuisine .

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Your Barbados holiday consultation

Prefer a luxury clifftop villa or beachside resort suite? Planning a romantic Barbados honeymoon or multi-generational family celebration? Whatever your vision, we'll tailor every extraordinary detail of your Caribbean escape.

The Caribbean is calling. Let's create your perfect luxury Barbados holiday together.

Ready to start planning your luxury Barbados escape? Contact Reigate Luxury Travel today for your complimentary Caribbean holiday consultation.

Luxury Barbados holidays | Caribbean travel experts | Reigate Luxury Travel

What is the Most Beautiful Place for a Honeymoon?

The Answer Is More Personal Than You Think

Golden hour in the Maldives, or a private terrace in Tuscany? Picture your first morning as newlyweds – where would you rather be?

For many couples, the most beautiful honeymoon destination isn't about ticking boxes. It's about shared moments in places that feel like they're yours alone. Beauty, after all, is personal.

Here are some of our favourite destinations to get you thinking. What means a beautiful honeymoon to you?

10 Breathtaking Honeymoon Destinations for Every Kind of Couple

1. Amalfi Coast, Italy

Who for: Classic romantics who dream in cinematic sunsets and vintage convertibles.
Why: A timeless escape with lemon-scented evenings, cliffside suites and dinner under a canopy of stars. Ideal for couples seeking that "la dolce vita" glow.
Insider tip: Book a suite at Palazzo Avino in Ravello and request a private terrace dinner overlooking the sea.

2. Soneva Fushi, Maldives

Who for: Lovers of barefoot luxury and castaway privacy.
Why: Think villa hideaways with your own butler, candlelit beach dinners and a sky full of stars - pure, uninterrupted bliss.
Insider tip: Reserve the overwater observatory suite at Soneva Fushi for an unforgettable stargazing and fine dining experience.

3. Kyoto, Japan

Who for: Couples craving cultural immersion and serene beauty.
Why: From tranquil gardens and traditional ryokans to exquisite kaiseki meals, Kyoto offers intimacy steeped in history.
Insider tip: Stay at Hoshinoya Kyoto, a serene riverside retreat, and time your visit for cherry blossom or autumn foliage season.

4. Patagonia, Chile

Who for: Adventurous souls who feel most alive in the wild.
Why: Luxurious eco-lodges, glacier hikes and quiet evenings by the fire - where nature writes the love story.
Insider tip: Choose Explora Patagonia for an all-inclusive experience with private guided treks tailored to your pace.

5. Cape Winelands + Safari, South Africa

Who for: Experience collectors who want wine, wildlife and wow-factor.
Why: Pair a treehouse suite in the bush with vineyard-hopping through Stellenbosch for safari chic meets honeymoon indulgence.
Insider tip: Start with a private wine tasting at La Residence in Franschhoek, then fly to Lion Sands Ivory Lodge in Sabi Sands for ultra-luxe Big Five game drives.

6. Santorini, Greece

Who for: Sunset chasers and design lovers.
Why: Iconic views, cave suites carved into cliffs and long, lazy lunches with wine flowing freely. As photogenic as it is passionate.
Insider tip: Avoid the crowds by staying at Grace Hotel in Imerovigli and dine at its rooftop restaurant with uninterrupted caldera views.

7. Ubud, Bali

Who for: Wellness seekers and slow-living enthusiasts.
Why: Private villas with infinity pools, sacred temples and couple’s spa rituals surrounded by jungle serenity.
Insider tip: Book a sunrise yoga session and private Balinese blessing at COMO Shambhala Estate overlooking the rice paddies.

8. Iceland

Who for: The unexpected romantics drawn to fire and ice.
Why: Chase the Northern Lights from a glass-roofed suite, soak in geothermal lagoons and explore otherworldly landscapes hand in hand.
Insider tip: Stay at the Retreat Hotel at Blue Lagoon for direct access to private spa waters and curated glacier excursions.

9. Thailand (Chiang Mai + Koh Yao Noi)

Who for: Couples wanting a blend of culture, calm, and coastline.
Why: Explore temples and night markets in Chiang Mai before retreating to a secluded beach villa on Koh Yao Noi for barefoot bliss and Thai hospitality at its finest.
Insider tip: Book a cooking class and cultural tour from 137 Pillars House in Chiang Mai, followed by a stay at Six Senses Yao Noi for panoramic views and private dining caves.

10. Saint Lucia, Caribbean

Who for: Couples looking for laid-back island luxury with all-inclusive ease.
Why: Lush peaks, volcanic beaches and clear Caribbean waters set the scene for romance, while seamless service lets you focus on each other.
Insider tip: Stay at Sandals Grande St. Lucian in an overwater bungalow and book a private sunset catamaran cruise for the ultimate tropical send-off.

How to Choose Your Most Beautiful Honeymoon Destination

A few guiding questions to help you get started:

• Prefer slow mornings or adrenaline-fuelled days?

• Dreaming of a tucked-away retreat or stylish city base?

• Want to unplug completely or explore local life?

Let the answers shape the destination. The most beautiful honeymoon spot isn’t a place on a list - it’s the one that fits your story.

Thinking about your honeymoon? We’ll help you make it unforgettable. Enquire now for a bespoke consultation.

Destination focus: Mauritius

Escape to Mauritius: Your Ultimate Indian Ocean Getaway

If you’re dreaming of soft white sands, turquoise lagoons and luxurious beachfront resorts, Mauritius is calling your name. Whether you’re seeking pure relaxation or adventure, this tropical paradise offers a perfect blend of both and is surprisingly good value. Let’s dive into why Mauritius should be on your radar for your next luxury escape.

Why Mauritius?

With an average temperature of 25°C year-round, it’s always a great time to visit Mauritius. The best times to travel are from April to June and September to December, making it ideal for an Easter or October half-term getaway. Whether you’re lounging by the beach, exploring lush waterfalls or taking a private catamaran cruise, you’ll find plenty to do in this stunning island paradise.

Top Experiences in Mauritius

Mauritius isn’t just about the beaches - although they are breathtaking! The island offers a variety of experiences for every type of traveller:

• Private Catamaran Cruises: Discover the beauty of the coastline with a private cruise, ideal for relaxing, enjoying the sunset or snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters.

• Waterfalls & Nature: Explore Mauritius’ lush interior, where you’ll find stunning waterfalls, hiking trails and opportunities to connect with nature.

• Watersports: Whether it’s paddleboarding, kite surfing or diving, Mauritius offers an abundance of watersports for the active traveller.

Our Favourite Mauritius Hotels

No matter your style, there’s a hotel to suit your needs in Mauritius. Here are our top picks:

LUX Grand Gaube

Veranda Grand Baie Hotel & Spa

The pool at Ravenala Attitude

• LUX Grand Gaube
  A 5* retro-chic retreat tucked away on a peninsula with access to two beautiful beaches. This hotel offers the perfect mix of luxury and fun, with kids and teens clubs to keep the younger ones entertained, making it an ideal family destination.

• Ravenala Attitude
  For an eco-friendly, all-suite experience, Ravenala Attitude is a secluded 4* gem on the northwestern coast of the island. With spacious suites and a focus on sustainability, it’s perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying luxurious comfort. Attitude is a certified B-corp with excellent eco-credentials.

• Veranda Grand Baie Hotel & Spa
  A boutique 5* hotel with thatched beach cabanas, an azure lagoon, and a sheltered white-sand beach. Perfect for couples or families, this charming resort combines intimate charm with top-tier service.

Why Choose Mauritius for Your 2025 Getaway

Mauritius’ year-round pleasant climate and variety of activities make it a versatile destination, while its world-class resorts ensure you’ll be pampered from the moment you arrive.

Ready to start planning your escape to paradise? Get in touch with us at Reigate Luxury Travel.

Mediterranean Jewels: Exclusive Coastal Retreats

Calanques National Park, France

The Mediterranean has always captivated travellers with its azure waters, sun-drenched coastlines and timeless charm. While destinations like Santorini, Positano and St. Tropez might dominate Instagram feeds, the true luxury traveller knows that exclusivity often lies just beyond these well-trodden paths.

The summer months naturally draw visitors to the Mediterranean's shores, but planning well in advance remains essential for these exclusive coastal retreats. The most exceptional properties book months ahead, and with consistently strong demand for luxury travel, securing your preferred dates at these hidden gems requires planning ahead.

Join us as we unveil some of our favourites of the Mediterranean's most exclusive coastal retreats – where authentic experiences and refined luxury converge far from the madding crowds.

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The Croatian Coast Beyond Dubrovnik

Croatia has rightfully earned its place among Mediterranean elite destinations, yet many visitors confine themselves to Dubrovnik or Split. The discerning traveller would be wise to look further.

Lošinj: Croatia's "Island of Vitality"

This verdant island in the northern Adriatic has been attracting wellness-seeking aristocracy since the 19th century, yet remains refreshingly uncrowded. Known for its exceptional air quality, abundant Mediterranean vegetation and crystalline waters, Lošinj represents Croatian luxury at its most authentic.

Lošinj, Croatia

Where to Stay

Boutique Hotel Alhambra stands as the island's premier accommodation. This meticulously restored Austro-Hungarian villa offers just 36 suites, each elegantly appointed with bespoke furnishings and sea views. The property's award-winning Alfred Keller Restaurant showcases the finest Adriatic cuisine with an emphasis on local, seasonal ingredients and an impressive wine cellar featuring rare Croatian vintages.

Exclusive Experience

Arrange a private speedboat excursion to the Blue Cave on nearby Cres island. Your captain will time your arrival to witness the otherworldly blue light phenomenon when sunlight reflects through the water, illuminating the cavern in ethereal azure hues.

The Istrian Peninsula's Hidden Treasures

Often referred to as "Croatia's Tuscany," Istria offers a compelling blend of Italian influence, truffle-laden forests and sun-drenched coastal villages.

Where to Stay

Meneghetti Wine Hotel & Winery in Istria is a sanctuary of understated luxury, where rolling vineyards meet the Adriatic breeze. Tucked away in the countryside, this refined estate offers elegantly designed villas, each with a private pool and a seamless blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. The on-site winery and Michelin-recommended restaurant showcase the region’s rich culinary heritage, pairing locally inspired dishes with Meneghetti’s award-winning wines. With its tranquil setting and dedication to discreet indulgence, it’s an idyllic retreat for those seeking a sophisticated yet unpretentious escape.

Exclusive Experience

Join one of Croatia's most renowned truffle experts and their specially trained dogs for a private foraging expedition in the Motovun forest. Your findings will become the centrepiece of a truffle-focussed three-course meal.

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Undiscovered Greek Coastlines

Greece's popularity shows no sign of waning, but its vast coastline and numerous islands ensure that serene luxury can still be found away from the cruise ships and Instagram crowds.

The Peloponnese Peninsula

This sprawling hand-shaped peninsula offers dramatic mountain landscapes, pristine beaches and archaeological treasures without the crowds of other Greek destinations.

Amanzoe, Porto Heli, Greece

Where to Stay

Amanzoe stands as one of the Mediterranean's most exclusive resorts. Perched on a hilltop near Porto Heli, this contemporary interpretation of classical Greek architecture features private pavilions and villas, each with its own pool and commanding views over the Aegean. The Beach Club offers seamless service on a pristine private beach.

Exclusive Experience

Indulge in a private olive oil tasting tour in a region known for its olive trees and vineyards. Learn about the secrets behind wine and olive oil production as you visit a historic mansion for a wine tasting, olive oil tasting and classic Greek meal.

Folegandros: The Sophisticated Alternative to Santorini

Just a short distance from Santorini lies Folegandros, offering similarly dramatic landscapes and that coveted Cycladic aesthetic, but with a fraction of the visitors.

Panagia of Folegandros

Where to Stay

Anemi Hotel combines traditional Cycladic architecture with modern design sensibilities. Its 44 rooms and suites, arranged in the style of a Greek village, offer sophisticated elegance. For ultimate privacy, we recommend the expansive two-bedroom villas with private pools overlooking the Aegean.

Exclusive Experience

Take a private hiking tour to the Panagia, the largest church on Folegandros. The church is built on a rock above Chora, on what is thought to be the site of an ancient temple.

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Southern Italy's Secret Corners

Italy's southern shores offer a compelling alternative to the more frequented northern coasts, with warm hospitality, extraordinary cuisine and landscapes that have changed little over centuries.

Puglia's Coastal Treasures

The heel of Italy's boot has emerged as a luxury destination while maintaining its authentic character through careful development focused on restoring historic properties rather than building new ones.

Borgo Egnazia, Puglia

Where to Stay

Borgo Egnazia sets a new standard for Mediterranean luxury with its thoughtful recreation of a traditional Apulian village. Set amidst ancient olive groves near the Adriatic Sea, this extraordinary property offers everything from elegant guest rooms to private villas with dedicated staff. The San Domenico Golf course, Vair Spa, and multiple dining venues ensure every desire is catered for.

Exclusive Experience

We arrange private cooking classes in restored masserias (fortified farmhouses) with chefs who specialize in Pugliese cuisine. Learn to prepare orecchiette pasta by hand alongside local women who've been making it their entire lives, before enjoying your creation with wines from nearby vineyards.

The Amalfi Coast Beyond Positano

While Positano's colourful buildings features on countless travel wish lists, nearby villages offer similar beauty with more breathing space.

The infinity pool at Monastero Santa Rosa

Where to Stay

Monastero Santa Rosa, a meticulously converted 17th-century monastery in Conca dei Marini, offers just 20 rooms and suites perched dramatically above the Amalfi Coast. Its terraced gardens descend toward the infinity pool that seems to merge with the sea below, while the spa occupies the monastery's original vaulted spaces.

Exclusive Experience

Relax in the award-winning spa with a Vesuvian-stone treatment or a volcanic clay body wrap.

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Luxury Meets Authenticity in Southern France

The French Riviera remains synonymous with glamour, but more authentic experiences can be found in less frequented coastal enclaves.

Cassis Instead of Saint-Tropez

This charming neighbouring town offers the Riviera's beauty without the pretension, focusing instead on exceptional wine production and natural landscapes.

Hotel les Roches Blanches, Cassis

Where to Stay

Hotel Les Roches Blanches is a masterpiece of Riviera elegance, perched on the cliffs with sweeping views of the Calanques. Once a 1920s private mansion, this refined retreat blends Art Deco charm with contemporary luxury across its beautifully appointed rooms and suites. The infinity pool appears to spill into the Mediterranean, while its two gourmet restaurants celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage.

Exclusive Experience

Explore the region in a vintage Fiat Spider, a 1969 MG Cabriolet or the famous 2 CV.

The Unspoiled Calanques National Park

This protected area of dramatic white limestone cliffs and turquoise coves between Cassis and Marseille offers natural beauty that rivals any in the Mediterranean.

The pool at Villa La Coste

Where to Stay

Villa La Coste provides an unparalleled luxury experience just inland from the Calanques. This 28-suite property set amidst a working organic vineyard features spectacular contemporary architecture and one of Europe's most significant private art collections, with works by Damien Hirst, Ai Weiwei, and Louise Bourgeois dotting the landscape.

Exclusive Experience

If you’re visiting in June or July, why not take a hot-air balloon tour over the lavender fields of Provence.

The Heart of Mediterranean Luxury

What makes these destinations special isn't just that they're exclusive – they're authentic too. They offer you a chance to experience the Mediterranean as it was meant to be enjoyed with space, peace, and genuine connections. And because these hidden treasures stay popular year after year, planning ahead is really important if you want to experience the best they have to offer.

Whether you're dreaming of a family holiday, honeymoon or just a well-deserved escape, we'll help you discover the Mediterranean beyond the crowds.

Get in touch today to start planning your Mediterranean journey.