Looking for sunshine without the long-haul flight? Early autumn is the perfect time to catch some late summer sun in southern Europe before the nights draw in and temperatures drop.

The Daily Mail has put together an inspiring list of destinations where temperatures are still in their mid-20’s in October, and the Med waters have retained the heat from the summer sun. While temperatures in Sicily in August are possibly too hot for some, in October they’re warm enough to bask in gentle sunshine over an alfresco lunch and soak up some rays on the beach, but not too hot to explore some of the island’s incredible sights.

Casa dei Sogni, featured in the Mail, is on the island’s east coast, and ideally located for visits to the charming towns of Taormina, Acireale and Catania.