Autumn continues in Sotogrande in October, with an average daily temperature of 20°C (about 67°F). Compared to the UK during this same time, that's a near perfect temperature and ideal for being outside enjoying active pursuits like hiking, biking, or just walking around the surrounding towns. The lows start dipping down, getting down to 16°C (around 61°F). Generally, you won't feel those lows unless you're outside at night or in the early morning hours.
It's smart to bring along a light jacket or sweater if you'll be down near the beach. The chance of a windy day is 80%, so you'll want a jacket to stay warm as you stroll along the sand. Like nearby Gibraltar, the highs reach up to 23°C (about 73°F), giving you a nice temperature to enjoy the last days of autumn. On the warmest days, short-sleeved shirts are still appropriate, but you'll also want trousers and long-sleeved shirts for the cooler days.
With a 20% chance of a sunny day and a 20% chance of a cloudy day, you might not need the sunglasses and sunscreen. The average number of sunshine hours this month is 7 hours, still enough time to get out and about. The rainfall amounts increase this time of the year, up to 62 mm for the month. That amount falls over 8 days, so the rain that falls is light and short.
The sea temperature is 20°C (about 68°F), still warm enough for swimming. However, you'll feel pretty chilly when you get out, as the outside temperature matches the water temperature. This part of southern Spain has seen an extreme high of 31°C (about 88°F), very warm for this time of the year. The lowest recorded temperature got down to 11°C (around 51°F), cool for this part of Europe.
Where to Stay
The El Goleto Apartments provide travellers with several options for accommodations, from one, two, and three-bedroom apartments to two-bedroom penthouse suites. All the rooms have televisions and well-equipped kitchens. You'll have plenty to do on-site with the gym and fitness centre; spa with sauna, Turkish bath, and Jacuzzi; and sports area with paddleball courts, mini golf, and children's playground.
The Marina de la Duquesa Apartment is part of a larger complex full of amenities. As a guest in the two-bedroom apartment, you'll have access to four swimming pools, golf course, fitness rooms, and paddleball courts. Along with two bedrooms, the apartment has two bathrooms, living room with television, and fully-equipped kitchen with all the necessities. You'll also enjoy a large terrace with dining table and chairs, sun loungers, and sea views.
At Casa Esmeralda, you get to call a traditional Spanish villa home during your holiday in Sotogrande. With five bedrooms and three bathrooms, there's plenty of room for everyone to spread out and enjoy the October weather. The house sits on a hill with views of two golf courses, the mountains, and the Mediterranean Sea. Other amenities include a private outdoor pool, satellite television, DVD player, and air conditioning.
Things to Do
Fun for kids of all ages, the Castellar Zoo Animal Rescue is home to numerous animal species. The animals in the zoo were rescued from the black market and include tigers, lemurs, panthers, and exotic birds. It also houses reptiles, fish, and other mammals. Open year-round, the zoo isn't far from Sotogrande, close to the Nature Park Los Alcornocales and a great way to spend a warm October day.
To explore the natural beauty of the Cadiz area, head to the Nature Park Los Alcornocales. While there, you'll explore the foothills and the mountains, wander through gorgeous wildflower meadows, and discover cool waterfalls and watering holes. During your trip, you'll also see wildlife like butterflies and birds as you walk through the forests. You can also do some cave exploring and mushroom hunting.
Head south toward Gibraltar and check out the Apes Den, located near the Upper Rock Nature Reserve. You can check out the Apes Den during your trip to see the Rock of Gibraltar. You're guaranteed to get up close and personal during your visit; the apes are out and about and pretty friendly. They're not afraid to approach guests and may even beg some food off of you!
Eating and Drinking Out
For a taste of the Philippines in Spain, try the Mabuhay Restaurante Alonso. Situated in the nearby town of Guadiaro, the restaurant has an indoor dining room, as well as outdoor seating to enjoy the weather. The menu also has Asian and Spanish dishes to satisfy your cravings. Menu favourites include prawns, spring rolls, pork with garlic, dumplings, crawfish, and noodle dishes.
A cool beach bar right in Sotogrande, Bahia Limon Chiringochill is the place to hang out and relax while soaking in the rays. The rustic restaurant has indoor seating, as well as tables and chairs right on the sand. Here, you'll dine on fresh seafood, appetizers, and light entrees. The Bahia Limon is also known for its delicious cocktails, cold beers, and local wines.
One of Sotogrande's only bakeries, Jan Stael's has a large selection of freshly-made breads, pastries, and sweet treats. It's located in Sotogrande's popular Blue Marina shopping centre, making it a great place to grab a quick snack and refuel for more shopping. The kids will love the selection of homemade ice creams and gelatos in a variety of fun flavours like strawberry, blueberry, orange, mocha, and raspberry.
