9 Vacation Destinations That Get Better Out Of Season

The largest of the Balearic Islands, Mallorca woos visitors with its golden shores, gleaming coves, movie-worthy landscape of mountains and rolling countryside, and vibrant towns and cities. But, come fall (and moving on into winter), when the most adamant sunseekers have left, the weather tends to remain pleasantly mild – all the better for enjoying its plethora of outdoor pursuits, such as hiking, biking and golf. Meanwhile, the harvest season also means plenty of opportunities to taste local delicacies – the villages often have festivals to celebrate the harvest. Plus, the cinematic scenery becomes even more dramatic on a stormy day.

Where to stay: The recently opened Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor sits amid a glorious private estate that has been restored to pay homage to the property’s past, infusing glamour and grandeur to match the beauty of the surroundings. The property encompasses picture-perfect beach, lofty pine woodland, rugged cliffs and a working vineyard – and every room and suite has its own sea-facing terrace.

While Cape Town garners the most attention between November and February, when it is hot and lively with revelers, the months of April to May and September to October boast more moderate temperatures and glorious scenery. For example, take in the vivid hues – and exquisite foodie offerings – of the winelands across Stellenbosch and Franschhoek during these off-peak windows, and make the most of the wealth of opportunities there for hiking and outdoor pursuits.

Where to stay: above the V&A Waterfront of Cape Town, the geometric structure of The Silo Hotel is an incredible sight, but the views from inside are just as impressive, stretching out over the cityscape to Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and the ocean. Meanwhile, at the foot of Simonsberg, in the Franschhoek wine valley, Babylonstoren is an elegant hotel situated on one of the country’s oldest Cape Dutch farms. Indulge in wine- and olive-oil tastings here, with 13 different grape varieties produced on the sprawling estate.

Although Brazil’s most famous city never loses its vivacity, the atmosphere reaches fever pitch during its annual Carnival, a world-renowned event each February that sees throngs of revelers dancing to samba music in the streets – but there’s still plenty of spirit and samba to soak up the rest of the year, too. With warm temperatures and fewer tourists, the months of March to June and September to November are perfect for immersing yourself in Rio’s thrills – from sun-seeking on the legendary Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, to the soaring attractions of Sugarloaf Mountain and Christ the Redeemer, not to mention experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Where to stay: Emiliano Rio is a striking, design-led hotel with an iconic Copacabana address – and you can watch the beach from the privileged vista of the hotel’s rooftop infinity pool. For a quieter, more laid-back perspective of the city, head to Santa Theresa Hotel RJ MGallery in the lush hilltop suburb of Santa Theresa – it’s a peaceful sanctuary with an open-air pool offering beautiful views over Guanabara Bay.

Synonymous with its namesake film festival, the charming, compact city of Cannes is easy to overlook outside the glamorous two-week-long event or the height of summer, when the masses flock to the French Riviera. But for a slower, more relaxed exploration of the city, head to Cannes in early spring, fall or even winter. Despite the cooler temperatures and less-predictable weather, you will be able to wander the picturesque streets in peace, relish in its art offerings and stumble upon beautiful restaurants offering delicious French and Mediterranean cuisine.

Where to stay: take the opportunity to stay at one of the city’s most iconic properties, such as the historic Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic Cannes on the Croisette, for a taste of Hollywood grandeur. If low-key elegance is more your style, head to the stunning Tiara Yaktsa in Théoule-sur-Mer, a 20-minute drive from central Cannes.

With its labyrinth of gondola-lined canals, Venice makes a strong case for being one of Italy’s most enchanting cities – as well as an overcrowded tourist trap. However, from November to early spring, it’s possible to appreciate the marvels of Venice among fewer people and soak up the magic of its piazzas minus the chaos. That means being able to fall into cafés while wandering the usually-packed narrow streets and discovering the city’s historic landmarks with far fewer crowds – think Basilica di San Marco, Doge’s Palace, Peggy Guggenheim Collection museum and Le Fenice Opera House.

Where to stay: Ca’ di Dio is a boutique hotel steeped in history and charm. Parts of it date back to 1272, while the new iteration – designed by Patricia Urquiola – is imbued with Venetian character, making it a splendid setting from which to enjoy the city.

With an eclectic and evolving culinary and cultural scene, Lisbon has become a buzzing city break in recent years. The cooler winter temperatures (though it’s still sunnier than many other European destinations, thanks to its Mediterranean climate) are ideal for exploring the city by foot. Take a stroll around the Old Town and appreciate its red-roofed architecture at a leisurely pace, before indulging in the city’s many decadent delicacies.

Where to stay: The Ivens, Autograph Collection, vividly designed by Lázaro Rosa-Violán and Cristina Matos, delivers an adventurous, travel-inspired ambience; a highly in-demand restaurant, Rocco; and even a jazz club.

Greek-island lovers know to avoid the most famous of the Cyclades in the summer months for fear of being overrun by honeymooners. But Santorini’s cerulean-blue-domed architecture is just as beguiling in the grayer, windier months of November and December, and all the more postcard-worthy without hordes of sightseers. Take hikes through peaceful panoramas and eat in the open bars and restaurants with locals for an authentic, laid-back vibe.

Where to stay: it’s more difficult to find hotels open in Santorini during the winter months, as much of the island shuts down until spring. However, the elegant, luxuriously detailed villas of Santorini Sky offer some of the most privileged viewpoints of the Aegean, with plenty of space for guests to revel in.

Bali’s wet season (November to March) has its obvious downsides: the climate becomes unpredictable and rain is far more likely (though downpours tend to be short). However, it is an opportune time to appreciate this locale’s renowned wellness destinations, which become increasingly tranquil for their end-of-year reset. Visits to the majestic temples and cultural spots will be far less disturbed by fellow vacationers, while the rice paddies and jungle landscapes will be at their most verdant.

Where to stay: for the height of serenity, Amandari, on the green lip of the Ayung River Gorge, presents the setting for a spectacular switch-off, boasting a blanket of lush ferns and free-standing suites for expansive space and privacy. It’s also close enough to the center of Ubud to explore the lively artistic offerings there, too.

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