AUTUMN SUN ◆ PORTUGAL Best for... beaches Love wine? Head to Alentejo, an unspoiled rural haven that you'll want to keep to yourself. Dotted with cork plantations and vineyards, this wine region is not a typical beach destination. Accommodation in the area is boutique and quirky; Cerca do Sul (cercadosul.com, rooms from £75 per night) is a friendly B&B housed in an old farm building. The cheery Pont'a Pé restaurant is adored by locals thanks to its signature fried chicken dish. DON'T MISS: A drive to the top of Sardão Cape - get your camera ready! GETTING THERE: Easyjet operates direct flights from Bristol to Lisbon, prices from £150pp between October and December 2016. Ship shape Explorer Christopher Columbus is reported to have stayed at the attractive Casa de Colon in 1492 - and that's who it's named after. It houses a museum of his voyages and life at sea. GRAN CANARIA Best for... culture Las Palmas, the capital of Gran Canaria, was founded in 1478 and the way its history and heritage mixes with the buzz of a modern city should be applauded. Visit the Art Nouveau architecture in Triana's shopping district - with the added bonus of sandy beaches and incredible views to marvel at. The aptly named Bed & Chic boutique hotel (bedandchic.com, rooms from £70 a night) is a cool place to stay in the heart of the action. And don't leave until you've been to El Novillo Precoz, a cosy restaurant famed for its steaks. DON'T MISS: A visit to the historical palace Casa de Colon. GETTING THERE: Ryanair operates direct flights from Luton to Gran Canaria, from £129pp during October and December 2016. 31http://www.cercadosul.com http://www.bedandchic.com