September is the secret sauce of the year. When summer lingers just long enough to let you soak up sun and slow things down before fall’s crisp arrival. It’s the perfect window for a getaway — when the crowds have thinned, the days stay warm, and everything moves at your pace. Whether you’re chasing the salty breeze of the Mediterranean, mountain air that tastes like adventure, or city streets steeped in history, this late summer stretch invites you to savor every moment.
Destination: Sorrento
Where to stay: The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria
First stop: Sorrento, sitting high above the Bay of Naples. This town is a sun-dappled dream with lemon trees perfuming the air. And of course, an endless views of water sparkling. September here feels like a well-kept secret. It’s a time when the tourist rush softens into gentle wanderings along cobblestone streets and piazzas filled with friendly chatter.
The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria has been part of this picture since 1834. It’s a family-run gem with 79 rooms and suites that gaze out over lush gardens and the marina. Step inside and you’re met with marble floors that catch the light, vintage furnishings, and portraits that seem to whisper tales from generations past.
For those needing a little downtime, the boutique spa offers indulgent treatments designed to refresh both body and mind. Fitness buffs aren’t left out either, thanks to a fully equipped gym on site. When hunger calls, the Michelin-starred Terrazza Bosquet restaurant takes center stage. It presents Mediterranean cuisine that’s as seasonal and fresh as the surrounding landscape. And there’s something magical about dining on the terrace here, watching the sun slip behind Mount Vesuvius, as the sky shifts from gold to deep indigo. Evening cocktails on the historic veranda feel less like a drink and more like a celebration of the day itself.
Destination: Mykonos
Where to stay: Kalesma Mykonos
Next, we hop to the Aegean Sea, where Mykonos in September shifts gears from party island to peaceful paradise. The famous nightlife quiets down just enough for you to enjoy the island’s natural beauty and luxury without distraction. Ornos Bay is the ideal spot in which to settle. It has calm, crystal-clear waters lap at the shore, and space to stretch out is never hard to find.
Kalesma Mykonos is like a little Cycladic village carved into the hillside, with its twenty-five suites, four private villas, and eight new suites in the making. Each accommodation is a private retreat, many with terraces or plunge pools where you can soak up the late summer sun.
The spa here is something special, offering sought-after Dr. Barbara Sturm facials. This is all alongside a traditional hammam, sauna, and a fitness center designed to keep you feeling your best. Dining happens at Pere Ubu, where fresh Greek ingredients come alive in mezze platters, grilled seafood, and crisp local wines. Whether you’re eating poolside or under a pergola tangled with vines, the setting makes every bite feel like a celebration of the island’s flavors. The gentle sea breeze, the soft light, the warm glow of a Mykonos sunset — it all adds up to a late-summer escape that makes you want to hit pause on life for just a little bit longer.
Destination: Jackson Hole
Where to stay: Caldera House
Jackson Hole turns into a playground for lovers of the great outdoors in September. The fiery hues of autumn start to paint the landscape, while crisp mountain air refreshes every breath. It’s the perfect time to trade your flip-flops for hiking boots. That’s pretty much all you need to experience the wild beauty of the Tetons without the summer crowds. The area offers an enticing mix of rugged adventure and cozy luxury, making it a top choice for a late-summer retreat.
Caldera House sits right in Teton Village. With a private and peaceful vibe amid the towering pines and mountain views. This boutique retreat has a handful of suites, including two- and four-bedroom options, all with their own fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens. You’ll be waking up to sunlight filtering through the trees, stepping onto your deck with your morning coffee. During the day, you can explore the extensive hiking trails or take advantage of nearby fly fishing spots. After your adventures, the members’ lounge provides a cozy spot to relax, swap stories, or simply enjoy a good book by the fire.
Where to stay: Sylvan Lodge
Just a short drive away, Sylvan Lodge at Snake River Sporting Club offers a slightly different take on mountain luxury. Here, the design leans into rustic charm with touches like oak floors, leather sofas, wool rugs, and floor-to-ceiling windows that bring the spectacular surroundings indoors. The two-, three-, and four-bedroom penthouses each have rooftop terraces with hot tubs. It’s perfect for soaking away any aches while gazing at the starry sky. Mornings begin with breakfast delivered to your door, fueling you for days filled with horseback riding, hiking, or simply breathing in the fresh mountain air. It’s rugged style, but also it’s modern comfort. And it gives guests a true sense of place and a restful haven after outdoor fun.
Destination: Mallorca
Where to stay: The Four Season Resort Mallorca at Formentor
Now, let’s jet to Mallorca, where the Formentor peninsula is a late-summer dream. The pine forests and the turquoise coves create a Mediterranean escape that’s both peaceful and stunning. And as the tourists thin out, the beaches open up, and the afternoons invite you for a cozy nap under a tree before a slow seaside dinner.
The Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor recently reopened, breathing new life into a historic 1929 estate. It has an old-world charm hidden amid lush gardens that invite you to explore. The resort features 110 rooms and suites that range from cozy hideaways to spacious specialty suites. And each is designed to offer privacy, and views of the Mediterranean or pine-covered hills.
Dining here is a treat for the senses. Mel, the signature restaurant, focuses on farm-to-table Mediterranean dishes that celebrate local ingredients and flavors. For something more casual, Quiosc offers poolside fare. It’s perfect for a relaxed lunch, after a morning swim. Shima brings a fresh twist with its Nikkei menu — with Japanese and Peruvian tastes — served in a sleek, stylish setting. For laid-back moments, the beachside chiringuito and an ice cream stand add a playful touch, making it easy to savor every moment. And the resort’s two pools cater separately to adults and families, ensuring everyone finds their perfect spot to lounge. The walking and biking paths wind through the property, inviting exploration. And for those seeking a little extra care, the spa and fitness center provide treatments and workouts to refresh both body and mind.
Destination: Corsica
Where to stay: Domaine de Murtoli
Now, let’s talk about Corsica. This island feels like a world of its own, with windswept hills, secret coves, and landscapes that shift from rocky cliffs to fragrant pine forests. September is perfect here. The summer crowds have thinned, the sea stays warm, and the scent of herbs fills the air. It’s a place to slow down and soak in raw beauty without distractions.
Domaine de Murtoli is a sprawling private estate set into this incredible landscape, which offers rustic elegance and total privacy. It is spread across 2,500 hectares between Sartène and Bonifacio, and it feels like its own world where wild hills roll toward hidden beaches and fragrant maquis landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. The accommodations are as unique as the surroundings: 19 shepherd houses and nine manor suites, many with private pools and terraces that make the most of those breathtaking views.
Inside, you’ll find exposed stone, wooden beams, and sleek modern touches. It’s a look that feels rustic without sacrificing style. And dining here is flexible. You might choose a cozy meal in the manor’s dining room, a laid-back lunch by the beach shack, or a romantic candlelit dinner in a natural grotto. Mornings start with baskets full of local goodies delivered right to your door, setting the tone for days filled with adventure or pure relaxation. Beyond the comfort of your hideaway, you can saddle up for horseback rides, explore vineyards, or hike through wildflower-strewn paths. Overall, Domaine de Murtoli invites you to experience Corsica’s untouched beauty with the luxury you deserve.
Destination: Cotswolds
Where to stay: Foxhill Manor
Heading to the English countryside, the Cotswolds in September offer a setting straight out of a storybook. Golden fields ripple under soft skies, quiet lanes wind through charming villages, and the pace slows just enough to breathe it all in.
Foxhill Manor, part of the Dormy Estate, sits on 400 acres of rolling greenery and offers just eight individually designed suites — making it a perfect intimate escape. The all-inclusive package here means your days are wrapped in ease, with champagne on tap, midnight snacks ready when you want them, and chauffeur-driven trips to the nearby Dormy House spa and pool.
Inside Foxhill Manor, cozy fires crackle in grand rooms, gardens beckon for evening strolls, and dinners can be private affairs crafted by a personal chef. Whether you’re a family traveler or bringing along your dog, this place offers a warm atmosphere paired with refined elegance. It’s the kind of retreat that invites long conversations, lazy mornings, and the kind of downtime you didn’t know you needed.
Destination: Vienna
Where to stay: Rosewood Vienna
The last stop here is Vienna, a city where history whispers through grand palaces. When September rolls around, the weather is just right — warm enough to enjoy outdoor cafés but cool enough to explore without breaking a sweat. This old-world charm and contemporary energy sets the perfect backdrop for two standout hotels: Rosewood Vienna and Park Hyatt Vienna, each delivering their own slice of luxury wrapped in Viennese flair.
Rosewood Vienna settles into a stunning 19th-century building close to Petersplatz. That’s a stone’s throw from St. Peter’s Church and the iconic Hofburg Palace. Its architecture celebrates the city’s imperial past with high ceilings, intricate moldings, and elegant details that invite you to step back in time without leaving any modern comforts behind. The hotel offers 100 rooms and suites, all dressed in rich fabrics, classic woodwork, and artful touches that balance tradition with contemporary design. Whether you pick a cozy deluxe room or one of the expansive suites, expect thoughtful amenities and plenty of natural light filtering through tall windows.
One highlight is the rooftop bar, which provides panoramic views over Vienna’s historic skyline. It’s a perfect spot to sip on creative cocktails while watching the sun set behind domes and spires. Dining at Rosewood Vienna is just as enticing. The brasserie serves fresh, innovative takes on Austrian classics, making sure each bite is as memorable as the surroundings. When it’s time to unwind, Asaya Spa offers a peaceful retreat. The spa’s treatment menu includes massages and facials designed to restore your energy after a day of sightseeing or meetings. All in a serene setting that helps melt away the city buzz.
Where to stay: Park Hyatt Vienna
A short walk away, the Park Hyatt Vienna inhabits a former bank building on Am Hof square, with old-world grandeur and sleek, modern luxury. The hotel’s 143 rooms and suites mix elegant furnishings with cutting-edge technology, providing a refined atmosphere. Its spa, located in the building’s original vaults, is a standout feature. It’s a wellness haven complete with an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and fitness center. The unusual setting adds a touch of intrigue to your relaxation routine, making it feel less like a standard spa and more like an exclusive retreat.
Food lovers will find much to enjoy at The Bank Brasserie & Bar, set beneath a stunning glass dome. The restaurant pays homage to the building’s banking heritage through its stylish design and carefully curated menu. Fresh seafood, prime steaks, and a selection of Austrian wines come together to create meals that satisfy both palate and eye. Whether you’re indulging in a leisurely breakfast, a business lunch, or a romantic dinner, the ambiance here sets the tone for a truly special dining experience.
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FAQs
Q: Where is the Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria located?
A: The Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is in Sorrento above the Bay of Naples.
Q: How many suites and villas does Kalesma Mykonos have?
A: Kalesma Mykonos has 25 suites, 4 private villas, plus 8 more suites coming.
Q: When did the Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor originally open?
A: The Four Seasons Resort Mallorca at Formentor dates back to 1929.
