I'd be interested in trying again, but would suggest that October is too late in the year, days are a fair bit shorter.
August or early September are probably a better bets. Either way I think the plans need to be very open, and a final decision made when the weather forecast is known and be prepared to cancel.
Going on hol in 2 weeks time (Switzerland), so next free w\e is 17\18th Aug.
See Alex's earlier thread, in the soapbox forum I think.