‘Europe’s Hawaii’ is still 25C in October with £35 flights from Birmingham

A sun-soaked island that’s been compared to Hawaii just four hours from Birmingham still boasts hot and sunny weather in October

Just because we’re entering the last few weeks of what’s ‘officially’ summer, that doesn’t mean that when autumn kicks off on September 23, there are no more hot and sunny holiday options within a few hours’ flight from the UK.

Typically you’ll need to start looking further afield such as the Caribbean for sunshine later in the year, but the good news is that there are still heaps of options around Europe where it’s still hot and sunny well into October.

In fact, one island is so beautiful and sun-soaked that it’s regularly dubbed ‘Europe’s answer to Hawaii’, and it’s less than four hours from Birmingham. Madeira is well worth having on your radar given that in October it enjoys temperatures of around 25C in the daytime, dropping down to about 17C in the evening, which is still pleasant enough if you want to make the most of the great outdoors.

It’s ideal weather for exploring the island’s lush green forests and hiking trails, or taking in the views of those pristine beaches with their turquoise waters (the waters are a little chillier in October for a swim but you can brave them!). Head earlier in the month as towards the end of October the island can get some bouts of rainfall.

The good news is that you won’t need to break the bank to visit. Skyscanner has fares from £35 each way from Birmingham to Madeira in October, and according to the travel firm’s research, the best time to book is about 40 days before departure if you’re after the cheapest deals.

There’s plenty to see and do across the island too. For the beachgoers, leave room on the itinerary for Seixal Beach which was named one of the world’s 50 best beaches earlier this year, alongside the likes of spots in the Maldives, Australia, Thailand and Hawaii itself. Seixal is already a firm favourite with tourists and locals thanks to its swim-friendly waters, amenities including a beach bar and showers, and the breathtaking sands and views to be found. It sits on the northern side of the island, opposite to capital Funchal.

Speaking of Funchal, if you’re after a scenic city break, it ticks all of the boxes, From gorgeous gardens to a charming Old Town packed with independent shops and restaurants, Funchal is also home to tourist attractions including the world-famous cable car that offers unrivalled views of the island.

Meanwhile intrepid explorers can don their hiking boots and take on the countless trails that weave through Madeira’s varying landscapes; think mountains, beaches, green forests and waterfall trails that wouldn’t look out of place in a storybook.

If you’re tempted to book a trip, there are plenty of package offerings with direct flights from Birmingham; Jet2holidays, TUI and British Airways are just some of the travel firms that offer Madeira holidays.