Autumn on the Costa del Sol: Ten Plans for November

When the clocks go back on the last weekend of October, the Costa del Sol changes pace. The beaches empty, the restaurants return to their regulars and the light turns golden from mid afternoon. For many of us who live here, November is the most rewarding month of the year: warm enough to eat in the sun, cool enough to walk in the mountains. These are our ten favourite plans.

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1. World class jazz in Málaga

November is the month of the Málaga International Jazz Festival, with international names at the Teatro Cervantes and concerts around the city. It is the most elegant cultural plan of the Málaga autumn. Exact dates and line up are published each year in the official programme.

2. The Calle Larios lights

At the end of November Málaga switches on its Christmas lights, among the most famous in Spain, with a light and music show that turns Calle Larios into a stage. Arrive early and, if you can, go on a weekday.

3. Golf in high season

For European golfers autumn is high season on the Costa del Sol: mild temperatures, greens at their best and long morning light. Book ahead and see our Costa del Sol golf guide.

4. The copper forest of the Genal Valley

In the Serranía de Ronda, the Genal Valley turns gold and russet in autumn with its chestnut woods, the so-called copper forest. It is the season of chestnuts and mushrooms, and the small villages of the valley offer mountain cooking that is welcome with the first chill.

5. The Caminito del Rey without the heat

The Caminito del Rey is far more enjoyable in mild weather. Entry requires a booked ticket, so plan ahead.

6. A day of museums in Málaga

If the day dawns cloudy, Málaga has one of the most complete museum offers in southern Europe, from the Picasso Museum to the Centre Pompidou. Our guide to the best museums in Málaga has the details.

7. A white village in the morning

Without the summer crowds, the white villages regain their calm. Frigiliana, Mijas or Casares are better than ever in autumn, and the low November light draws their façades in beautiful contrast.

8. Lunch in the hills

November is the month of stews, game and mushrooms. Few places celebrate it like Benahavís, ten minutes from the coast, where a long lunch on a sunny terrace is almost an autumn tradition.

9. The last swim of the year

The Mediterranean keeps some of its summer warmth for weeks. On sunny days in early November a short swim is still possible in quiet coves, especially towards Nerja and Maro. To choose a beach, see the best beaches of the Costa del Sol.

10. Sunsets at aperitivo time

After the clocks change, the sun sets around six in the evening. That makes the aperitivo the most photogenic moment of the day. Find a viewpoint or a terrace facing west and let the coast do the rest.

November on the Costa del Sol is the month of golden light: fewer people, tables without impossible waiting lists and temperatures that invite you to walk.

Before you go

• Clothing: layers. Mornings and evenings are cool; midday can feel almost like summer.
• Rain: rainy days are usually few but intense; check the forecast before mountain walks.
• Holidays: 1 November, All Saints’ Day, is a national holiday and some shops close.
• More ideas: for Málaga itself, start with our Málaga city guide.