Family Travel | October Half Term 2026
Not ready to let go of summer? Quinta do Lago, the resort in the heart of Portugal’s Algarve, is a brilliant choice for an October half-term break. Temperatures still reach around 23°C, and there’s a packed programme of sport, food and Halloween fun for the whole family.
Here are five reasons to go.
1. Autumn sunshine
While the UK is turning chilly and grey, the Algarve is still enjoying highs of around 23°C in October. That’s warm enough for outdoor adventures, lazy lunches in the sun and even a dip in the pool, but without the intense heat and crowds of summer. It’s a short flight from most UK airports, which makes it ideal for a week away over half term.
2. Sports for every age at The Campus
The resort’s multi-sports hub, The Campus, has top-class facilities and expert coaching, with camps in dance, tennis and football for children and adults. Its flagship event, the W75 The Campus Ladies Open, brings elite international women’s tennis to the resort, alongside tennis and padel leagues. Sporty families can also sign up for the Campus Triathlon in November, set against the stunning Ria Formosa nature reserve.
3. Halloween fun for the kids
Over half term, there’s a full programme of Halloween events. Children can join “Pirates of the Scareiibean” activities at The Shack, there’s a spooky brunch at Bovino’s Steak House, a Scary Run, and a costume parade on 30 October. So you won’t miss out on Halloween by going away.
4. Something for the grown-ups
October’s Cocktail Week showcases drinks across the resort’s bars and restaurants, while Beer Fest at Dano’s brings craft beer and live entertainment. Year-round favourites include picnics in the park, mini-golf, live music and outdoor cinema, so there’s plenty to do together as a family too.
5. Family-friendly places to stay
The Magnolia Hotel is a characterful base, with seven exclusive cottages, comfortable rooms, a heated outdoor pool, wellness facilities and a lively restaurant. Standard double rooms start from around £110 a night and family cottages from around £198, both on a bed and breakfast basis. For longer stays, Quinta do Lago Real Estate has spacious rental villas and apartments for families and groups.
Info
Quinta do Lago, Algarve, Portugal | +351 289 381 220
The Magnolia Hotel | +351 289 005 300
Standard Double from €128 (£110) B&B | Family Cottages from €230 (£198) per night B&B