Where to travel in November

29.10.2023 - 10:01 / nationalgeographic.com / In November

As the Northern Hemisphere moves into the shadow of winter, thoughts, for many, turn to some sunshine. And that’s still just about possible within the fringes of Europe, with the far-flung Atlantic Iberian islands basking in warm autumn sun. It’s a great time for hiking in the Azores, Canaries and Madeira, while mainland Europe sees in its harvests — including olives, mushrooms and truffles — with a slew of festivals.

North America’s eastern reaches are ablaze with fall foliage, with Thanksgiving an atmospheric time for a city break in the likes of New York, Boston and Montreal. It’s a fine time to head to the Caribbean, too, where the stormy season is retreating.

Escape to the Spanish archipelago off the coast of West Africa for some November sunshine. The rugged volcanic islands have black and white sand beaches and some of the sunniest winter weather in the Northern Hemisphere. Tenerife usually has the best temperatures and hours of sunshine, and with averages of 18-23C, it’s great weather for hiking some of the island’s 750 miles of designated trails.

The local government has designated nearly half of Tenerife as a ‘protected area of nature’, so expect lush sub-tropical vegetation, laurel forests and dramatic volcanic views. Trails like Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere, are home to incredible birdlife including the endemic Bolle’s and laurel pigeons.

Sustainable travel tip: November is also whale-watching season and between Tenerife and La Gomera, you’ll find Europe’s first Whale Heritage Site. Choose a reputable ethical local small boat operator such as Biosean and Whale Watch Tenerife — two notably ‘Blue Boat’ certified firms.

(How to spend a weekend on Tenerife's wild northern coast.)

There are often some bargain breaks to be had in the shoulder season, between the tail-end of summer’s hurricanes and the start of winter’s peak travel time. A few islands celebrate independence in November, too, including Barbados, which makes for a fun few days of street parties, feasting and music.

Swimmers can make the most of those azure Caribbean blues, with Barbados Open Water Festival (8-12 November), a fun annual sporting event with 1.5km, 3.3km, 5km and 10km races welcoming a broad mix of ages and abilities, including serious swimmers and first-timers to open water.

Sustainable travel tip: Check into one of the burgeoning number of locally owned eco hotels, such as ECO Lifestyle + Lodge near Bathsheba, overlooking the little fishing village of Tent Bay. It's solar-powered with eco-products including reef-friendly suncream and organic mosquito spray, while its 10 rooms have an island castaway feel.

(Where to eat in Barbados.)

The summer crowds have long departed but the days in November are still