September marks a gentle transition between summer and autumn. Beaches grow quiet again, the light takes on a golden softness, and the mild weather still invites a swim. In many destinations, the air remains warm during the day while cool evenings bring a more comfortable rhythm. Here are 10 destinations for extending the summer in September.
In September, the sea around Mallorca is still warm, with temperatures ranging between 25 and 27°C. Quieter than at the height of summer, the island's beaches and coves offer a more peaceful atmosphere, with clear waters, limestone cliffs and pine trees lining the shore. The mild temperatures are also well suited to exploring the Serra de Tramuntana Mountains, along paths that wind through olive groves, pass belvederes overlooking the Mediterranean and link stone villages such as Valldemossa, Deià and Fornalutx. Clear skies and softer late-summer light also make September particularly pleasant for spending long days outdoors.
Among our clients' favourite villas in Mallorca are Villa Gardena, Sa Punta and Villa Skyjo.
Along the Catalan coast, September brings a calmer pace. The rocky coves around Begur, such as Sa Tuna and Sa Riera, take on a golden light against a clear Mediterranean Sea. Coastal villages return to their authentic character, with local markets and walks along the Camí de Ronda, the coastal path that winds between pine trees, cliffs and sections of rugged coastline. It is an ideal setting for quiet swims and lunches by the sea, followed by a sunset view from one of the headlands above the water.
Villa Gamera, Villa Azulena and Villa Belatta offer privileged addresses from which to explore the Costa Brava and this still-secluded stretch of the Spanish coastline at your own pace.
Southern Portugal extends the summer with daytime temperatures between 26 and 28°C. Golden sandy beaches framed by ochre cliffs invite a swim, while the hinterland is well suited to walking or cycling. The sea caves of Benagil, reached by kayak, and the views from Cabo de São Vicente make for memorable experiences in a striking natural setting. With the summer season no longer in full swing, September offers a more relaxed way to enjoy the coast.
Among our luxury villas in the Algarve, Villa Vermelho, Villa Pivoina and Villa Royko Monte Rei are particularly recommended by our clients.
An hour south of Lisbon, Comporta stretches across Atlantic beaches, pale dunes, rice fields and umbrella pine forests. In September, cooler temperatures and fewer visitors make it easier to explore the long stretches of sand on foot, by bike or on horseback, particularly around Carvalhal and Pego. Days unfold between walks through the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, swims in the ocean and lunches of grilled fish and local produce in the villages of Comporta and Carvalhal. For families travelling with kids, the wide beaches and slower pace make it easy to alternate outdoor activities with relaxed time by the sea.
Our villas in Comporta such as Villa Acacio, Villa Peper and Casa Sereno sit within this authentic landscape, between the sea and the Alentejo countryside.
In September, Corsica takes on a calmer character, far from the buzz of July and August. The sea stays pleasant, around 23°C, ideal for swimming in the unspoilt coves of Palombaggia or Santa Giulia. The days are well suited to hiking in the Bavella massif, following the Corsican coastline on foot or exploring the wild coast by boat. This period combines the warmth of late summer with the calm of quieter beaches, making it easy to enjoy outdoor activities without the summer crowds. September is also one of the best months for appreciating the contrast between the island's beaches, Mountains and dramatic coastal scenery.
Villanovo's Corsican villas collection includes Casa Ondella, Casa Valada and Villa Ondinu, which offer privileged settings between sea and nature.
September is harvest time in Provence, when the vineyards of the Luberon come alive with picking and tastings at local estates. The atmosphere turns more serene, golden light settles over the hilltop villages of Gordes, Roussillon and Lourmarin, and Provençal markets reveal the flavours of the season. It is the time to walk the trails of the Regional Nature Park, wander the ochre streets and discover the local way of life, between shaded terraces and cellars open to visitors. Historic villages, stone farmhouses and chapels also provide some of the region's most distinctive cultural highlights.
For a stay in a mas in Provence, Villanovo recommends the Mas de la Soie, Villa Aramis and the Mas Stanquie, three characterful addresses set within the Provençal landscape.
The grape harvest turns the landscapes of the Chianti and the Val d'Orcia into golden scenes, where the pace of each day follows that of the picking. Temperatures grow milder, ideal for walks through the hills and visits to Florence and Siena, both cities revealing their Renaissance heritage without the heavy heat of summer. Their palaces, churches and historic squares showcase the stunning architecture for which Tuscany is celebrated. Between the two, the road winding through the wine estates invites tastings and stops in characterful villages.
Among the villas in Tuscany recommended for a September stay are Villa Samba, Villa Euterpe and Casale Pulcinata.
In September, Puglia keeps its summer light while settling into a quieter rhythm. In Ostuni and Alberobello, the streets, squares and trulli can be explored away from the crowds, in milder temperatures. Along the coast, the sea remains pleasant for swimming and the beaches are less busy. Lecce, Monopoli and Polignano a Mare are best visited now, amid baroque architecture, terraces and local specialities. Between historic centres and seaside towns, the region combines architectural heritage with stretches of the Adriatic and Ionian turquoise coast.
Masseria Trullita, Villa Stellata and Trullo Frapiatto offer an elegant and comfortable way to experience a stay in Puglia.
The Greek islands in September still enjoy plenty of sunshine, with temperatures between 25 and 28°C and sea temperatures above 24°C. The Cyclades and the Ionian islands offer ideal conditions to enjoy the beaches, explore whitewashed villages and sail along the coastline without the intense heat of summer. In the Cyclades, whitewashed houses and blue domed churches stand out against clear skies and the Aegean Sea. This is a good time to discover Greece at a calmer pace, when archaeological sites and seafront tavernas return to their authentic character. The warmth of local hospitality and the gentleness of the evenings extend the pleasure of staying along the Mediterranean coast.
For this Greek getaway, Villa Salma, Villa Thalassa and Villa Nousse are elegant retreats, between sea and tranquillity.
September marks the start of the southern spring in Mauritius, with a pleasant climate and temperatures ranging between 20 and 28°C. Falling within the island's dry season, this period is particularly well suited to exploring its turquoise lagoons, unspoilt beaches and lush natural landscapes. Far from the usual European itineraries, Mauritius offers a complete change of scenery, while the generally settled conditions make September an appealing time to discover the island at a relaxed pace.
Among the finest properties in Mauritius are Villa Heaven, Villa L'Illot and Villa Fleur de Sel.
Villanovo offers a handpicked selection of villas for enjoying the September sun in some of the world's most beautiful destinations, from the Mediterranean to the Indian Ocean. Our luxury villas combine character, comfort and privileged locations, with, depending on the property, a private pool, a spacious garden, proximity to the beach or house staff. For travellers seeking a bespoke stay, our specialists advise and guide you towards the villa best suited to your wishes and the time of year.
The Villanovo concierge is on hand throughout the stay, arranging every detail according to travellers' wishes. Transfers, restaurant bookings, private dinners, wellness treatments, excursions in national parks, family activities and reservations at favourite addresses can all be arranged ahead of arrival. On site, the local team remains available to adjust the programme and respond to requests with care and discretion.
