OCTOBER FAMILY HOLIDAY

[iainmax]

We haven't managed a summer holiday and have had a recommendation for Carvoeiro (Monte Dourado Apartments). Children aged 11 and 13.
It seems from your very helpful site that the major beaches require car hire to access. Would we be wrong to do without a car (the main objective of the holiday is relaxation). Also, is the second half of October going to be noticeably warmer than UK?
Thank you

[SJ & RE]

Yes, but the beach in CVO is only a few minute stroll away and buses can be caught if needed.
Happy hols.

[laserblazer]

The weather can be a bit mixed. In 2006 it was pretty wet at the end of the month.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QdndsgT9khg

But the sea is still reasonably warm. Whilst you don't need a car, by the time you have sorted transfers from the airport etc., it probably works out cheaper at that time of year. See the Algarvedriver link on this site.

[fmm]

You definltely don't NEED a car if you are staying at Monte Dourada as the beach is close, the restaurants and bars are on your doorstep and there are swimming pools on the complex. However, if you want to explore, try other beaches and attractions then hiring a car is far cheaper than airport transfers and coach trips. It is not so busy in October so parking should not be a problem. The roads are very good and it is not stressful driving in the Algarve these days and the convenience is great.

However, if you prefer not to drive, then book your transfer from the airport before you fly to get the best price.

[iainmax]

Thank you for taking time to reply (and the YouTube link was particularly helpful).
I have a feeling the recommendation will prove to be a good one, and may well take the plunge by hiring a car as is suggested. I suspect I shall have more questions in the coming days, so prepare to help again.

[fmm]

I have been every October half term for the past 3 years and have been lucky enough not to have had a single day of bad weather. No doubt I will get swift retribution this year having said that!

[laserblazer]

I have been every October half term for the past 3 years and have been lucky enough not to have had a single day of bad weather. No doubt I will get swift retribution this year having said that!

My video was taken October Half Term 2006 and it chucked it down most days. 2007 was a lot better.

[fmm]

Fortunately, my son's school finishes earlier and goes back later than the rest of the UK schools, so our 4 days managed to miss the horrid weather. Not that I was smug about it, of course. The same thing happened (as far as I can remember) in 2007 ...

[laserblazer]

Fortunately, my son's school finishes earlier and goes back later than the rest of the UK schools, so our 4 days managed to miss the horrid weather. Not that I was smug about it, of course. The same thing happened (as far as I can remember) in 2007 ...

It's swings and raoundabouts though. I bet your flights didn't cost as much as ours

[Cooler King]

Hi Iain, have sent you a PM.

Cooler King.

[PTBUXTON]

Weather in October normally pretty good around 22c to 25c just right in my opinion this will be my 4th year for an October stay

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