With cold weather and dark mornings right around the corner, it’s only natural to begin craving some winter sun. Many people make it their mission to escape the UK at this time of year by booking holidays with the promise of endless sunshine.
If you’re craving some sunshine, here are some of our top ideas for a winter getaway.
Tenerife
Tenerife is a go-to spot when the weather in the UK is bleak. It promises beach days and plenty of sunshine as temperatures tend to stay above 20°C, even in the depths of winter. However, it isn’t too hot that you can’t enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling.
You could head to Teide National Park to witness bizarre rock formations against a backdrop of towering mountains. Keen to hike up to the peak of Mount Teide? You can do it all from scratch or take a cable car to shorten the journey. In fact, all of the canary islands offer winter sun so you can take your pick from Lanzarote, Gran Canaria or Fuerteventura!
Malta
Temperatures in Malta fluctuate between around 20-25°C in October and November, making it a great destination for anyone seeking sun at this time of year. The temperature drops a little further in December; however, it’s guaranteed to be significantly warmer than in the UK!
Malta may be a small island but it’s jam-packed full of fascinating history. Valletta is the capital and the entire city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a gold mine for anyone intrigued by Renaissance history or Baroque architecture. You can see St. John’s Co-Cathedral, the National Museum of Archaeology and the Upper and Lower Barrakka Gardens. On the same trip, you could visit the smaller islands of Gozo and Comino.
The Maldives
If you want all-out luxury, the Maldives is a must. It serves as a tropical paradise all year round, with incredible wildlife. Due to the drier, warmer weather here, winter is the best time to visit the Maldives for many. In fact, the wet season runs from spring through to autumn, so the right timing is crucial.
Spend your days swimming in the turquoise waters and staying in luxury villas for some much-needed R&R. There are plenty of nearby islands you can explore during your trip. Spot incredible marine life such as turtles, dolphins and rays by snorkelling or diving. Otherwise, a boat trip is another great way to get a closer look.
The Philippines
An archipelago made up of more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines promises endless adventures during your winter escape. Expect white sandy beaches and fascinating wildlife as you spend time exploring every wonderful corner.
Temperatures are particularly warm at this time of year, so you have plenty of opportunity to embrace its tropical climate. Many tourists take boat trips between the islands to get a real sense of escapism. Alternatively, you can take on the waves by surfing or try various other water sports.
