October in Torrevieja is mid-autumn, the season of cooling temperatures in preparation for the winter, and shorter, wetter days. That being said, with the temperate Mediterranean climate of the area, it's unlikely to be really cold at any time and autumn on the Costa Blanca, with the extreme heat of the summer months passed, is the perfect time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The average temperature in Torrevieja in October is 19C, with highs of 23C. The highest temperature ever recorded in the area is 32C, and it's likely to be above 25C for a few days at the start of the month. The sea is still pleasantly warm, with average sea temperatures of around 22C, and about 9 hours of sunshine each day. A little sunbathing or time on the beach is not out of the question.
It's a similar story across the Costa Blanca, and Spain, though it's likely to be a little cooler year round further north. In Benidorm, just a few miles up the coast from Torrevieja, the average temperature is similarly 20C, with highs of 23C. Further north in Madrid, however, the temperature has really fallen quite significantly to an average of just 15C; in comparison, the average temperature in the city September was 22C, a sharp 7C drop.
Autumn is the rainy in Spain and it will be slightly wetter than preceding months, with rainfall averages of 59mm over 4 days in Torrevieja. Further north, due in part to a more mountainous topography, Barcelona has much higher rainfall averages year round, in October around 87mm over 6 days. In the autumn months, precipitation is likely to take the form of occasional electrical thunderstorms, with lightning and torrential rainfall (sometimes resulting in flooding) on the Costa Blanca. Thunderstorm activity becomes more frequent and severe during late September and throughout October, decreasing both in intensity and number by December. The torrential rain during these thunderstorms is responsible for most of the flooding in Alicante this time of year,
If you're looking for something a little different in the way of accommodation, you can rent a houseboat in San Javier, just up the coast. No sailing experience is required and the boat comes with a full kitchen, bathroom and fine sea views (as you might expect) from every window. What could be better than that? The décor is chic and modern on every vessel, they generally sleep 6, and even include loungers on deck so you can properly soak up the famous Costa Blanca sun!
If a boat doesn't appeal, but neither does a hotel or villa, there are several camping and caravan sites just outside the town centre. Some sites feature what are euphemistically termed "bungalows", with seating areas and satellite TV, kitchenette, shower room, and towels and bedlinen provided. Others are strictly a "bring your own accommodation" kind of facility. The nicer sites include outdoor pools and tennis court, bars and cafés, fitness centres, games rooms and libraries.
Not to be confused with Nando's, the chain of chicken restaurants, this family-run restaurant of the same name serves great steaks, fish, (and, yes, chicken), with special deals on three course meals including a half bottle, so it's perfect for a budget evening meal. They have a great wine menu and the complimentary brandy and liqueurs on presentation of the bill are a nice touch.
For vegetarians, try the Restaurante Vegetariano opposite the Torrevieja Marina. The décor is clean, bright and modern, and the menu diverse and imaginative, with a wide range of dishes and all dishes prepared from the freshest local produce.
Flyboard is the "it" new water sport, popular with celebrities and the rich and famous. It's supposedly pretty easy to do, and will definitely get your adrenaline racing! Book down at the Marina Salina's Port, just near Niki Beach, for a full day experience out on the boat. It's sure to be an unforgettable experience!
For the more adventurous holidaymaker, why not have a go at cable skiing? You can choose either wakeboard or skis - or try both, and while the prices vary between high and low season it's great value, and anyone can have a go! Expect to fall down a few times, but that's all part of the fun, right? Book ahead through your hotel to avoid disappointment, as places fill up fast.
Parque del Marina del Agua showcases fabulous design, incorporating nature into modern architecture. It's perfect for a quiet stroll, or a noisy run with the kids. And, if you're lucky, you'll see some of the local wildlife poking their head out of the trees. There's a ship shaped restaurant with sea views, dogs are allowed, and the park is always open.
