Will hostels be open in October on the Primitivo?

My wife and I are planning to hike the Primitivo in late October of 2016. We area little worried that hostels will be closed. Does anyone have any guidance? Alternatively, is there a way to find reach out to people directly and find housing? (homestays or B&B kind of arrangements)

Also, any guidance on gear, given the temperature? I have done a lot of backpacking and am well equipped for a nasty winter. We are planning to bring sleeping bags and similar colder weather gear. Is that overkill?

Thanks!