A Great October Holiday Destination

If you are looking for one of the best holiday destinations in October then with average temperatures of around 21C or 70F the Languedoc Roussillon region of South of France should be given very serious consideration. Experience has shown that certainly through the early to middle part of October and sometimes at the back end of the month that the weather can be very mild and pleasantly sunny.

Add to this that flight prices, using the low cost budget airlines that service this region very well, drop dramatically when compared to high season prices and that accommodation costs and car hire costs follow a similar pattern, then a holiday in the South of France becomes a very affordable option at this time of year.

Another suggestion worth thinking about is to ask the owners of gites or other self catering accommodation if they would be prepared to accept an alternative changeover day or maybe even a reduced period as this would really allow you to research the cheapest travel arrangements. I recently got flights to and from the UK from Carcassonne for €15 return fully inclusive which would make even a long weekend affordable. I think presented with the opportunity for extending their season, many gite owners would seriously consider meeting your requirements.

Of course there are no guarantees of lovely weather, but there are plenty of contingency plans should the weather fail to deliver its promise. The region has an abundance of grotto's and wonderful underground caves to explore, there are the markets such as the famous Victor Hugo food market in Toulouse, visiting the many fabulous cities and places of historic interest along the Pays de Cathar. Boat trips down the Canal du Midi, cycling, horse riding, walking in the many areas of outstanding natural beauty and photography. Any of these with a little fore thought are perfectly acceptable ways to spend a day even if the weather did turn a little overcast.

Even better of course when the sun is shining as it often does and those temperatures for a lot of people, who aren't necessarily committed sun worshipers or particularly bothered about a daily swim in the pool, are much more civilized, particularly if you like to spend your days being physically active. I know if I was hiking through the Pyrenees that I would prefer temperatures of 21C rather than the 30C+ you may encounter during July or August.

So if you are looking for an affordable holiday, in a lovely part of the world where the weather is surprisingly good for Europe then think Languedoc Roussillon in the South of France, I don't think you will be disappointed.