If you’re anything like me, I start suffering with SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder) as soon as autumn hits. Whilst I was born and have always lived in the UK, my family are originally Greek Cypriot so craving sunshine is deep within my DNA. The long, cold and dark winters affect my wellbeing and no doubt yours (3pm dusk is no fun when you have school runs) so booking a winter break is always a good idea.
Where can you go in the winter for some sunshine? Below are my top 5 picks.
One of the Canary Islands, off the coast of West Africa, and a favourite with holidaymakers anytime of the year, visit in the winter for average 20 degree temperatures where you can enjoy walks on sandy beaches, views of the rugged mountains and unspoiled villages, far from the tourist hotspots such as Caleta and Corralejo which are deemed tacky by some. With a whopping 6 to 7 hours of sun a day (yes please), delicious and healthy Spanish food (hello yummy tapas) and even dips in the sea which remains mild whilst others in the UK are wearing thermals! Popular spots include Sotavento Beach and El Cotillo Beach, just don’t forget a sweater and light jacket for the evening when the weather becomes a little colder.
Winter Sun in Tenerife
Another great destination for families and not far by plane from UK airports, Tenerife is one of the largest and the most popular of the Canary Islands and is home to activities such as whale watching, scuba diving and sight seeing. Check out the world’s third-tallest volcano, Mount Teide, and make sure you visit Playa de Las Teresitas, famous for its golden Saharan sands and picturesque turquoise waters.
Lake Garda in Winter
Christmas markets, achingly beautiful views of the Lake, skiing and the finest restaurants await you in Lake Garda, Italy. Do not miss Sirmione, where you can see the Roman ruins, including the breathtaking Grottoes of Catullus – the remains of a Roman villa built between the late 1st century BC and the early 1st century AD at the northern tip of the Sirmione peninsula. Or Malcesine, with its cobbled lanes and chance to bike ride is famously home to Scaliger Castle, an utterly magical must-see. Malcesine, with its cobbled lanes and chance to bike ride is famously home to Scaliger Castle, an utterly magical must-see. A real life Arendelle from Frozen! Riva del Garda treats you to views of snow-capped mountains, and the Alto Garda Museum is a must-visit, with paintings, archaeological displays, and workshops for children.
Winter Sun in Malta
From sunset cruises to beaches and bays to tours of Malta’s prehistoric temples, there’s plenty to do even in winter, outside the high season. It’s much cheaper in the winter too. Winter month temperatures are far milder than other European destinations at around 17 degrees. For your culture hit see below:
Valletta: Malta’s UNESCO capital is utterly perfect for winter with its narrow, cobbled streets, stunning Baroque churches (like St. John’s Co-Cathedral), insightful museums, and the Upper Barrakka Gardens overlooking the picture-perfect Grand Harbour. Mdina (The Silent City): Explore the medieval streets of this ancient walled city, cinematically atmospheric and far less crowded in winter, with panoramic views across the island.The Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea, Cospicua): located across the Grand Harbour from Valletta, reflect the seafaring past of the country. Rabat: Adjacent to Mdina, Rabat offers ancient catacombs and a wonderful Christmas market (Natalis Notabilis) in December, featuring artisan stalls, decorations, and crib exhibitions.
Caribbean Winter Sun Paradise
St Lucia, Barbados and the Cayman Islands are expensive but worthwhile visits for luxurious, dreamy holidays you will never forget. They might take a few years to save for the crystal waters, fresh seafood and winter sunshine are something to behold. St Lucia has fishing villages, rum tours, volcanic beaches and sulphur springs. Barbados is perfect for a spot of surfing and is renowned for safety. The Cayman Islands offer so much: the Bioluminescent Bay glows at night and Stingray City offers you a chance to swim with stingrays in shallow water. Bliss.
Where are you thinking of some winter sun? Lots of food for thought here! Let me know in the comments!
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