Winter has definitely arrived, and the temps are a little more chilly than we’d like to admit. So naturally, we can’t help thinking about where to find some sizzling sunshine. Which begs the question: where do you go for warm winter weather? And (more importantly) which destinations are cheap? Luckily, we’ve got the answer to both!
From Morocco to the Mediterranean, we’ve rounded up ten budget-friendly holiday hotspots where you can enjoy a dose of Vitamin D without the price tag this winter. Sunnies at the ready…
Tenerife
Tenerife’s eternal sunshine makes it a firm fave for a beach break any time of year. Average temperatures peak in the early twenties even in January, so you can forget any winter blues as you kick back on the island’s gorgeous sandy shores.
It’s a great time of year to get stuck into outdoor activities too, including quad bike tours and hikes in Teide National Park. Or treat yourself to a boat trip – November to February are the best months to spot dolphins and whales!
Cyprus
Visit Cyprus in winter and you’ll get to see the best of its beautiful nature reserves and beaches without the crowds! Go strawberry picking in the countryside or take advantage of the slightly cooler weather to wander around the incredible historical sights of Paphos and Limassol.
Balmy 20°C temps mean beach days are still on the cards, as are boat trips and sea cave tours – head to Ayia Napa to see some of the best.
Sharm el Sheikh
If the red-hot temperatures put you off visiting Sharm el Sheikh in the summer then winter is a fab time to enjoy a R&R break in this popular Red Sea resort. You’ll find plenty of beachfront hotels offering all-inclusive package deals where you can sit back and soak up some sunshine by the pool (cocktail in hand, obvs).
Fancy adding some adventure to your itinerary? Head underwater to explore vibrant coral reefs on a scuba-diving tour or tear up the dunes on a 4x4 jeep safari!
Lanzarote
Lanzarote’s eye-popping landscapes and Insta-worthy beaches make it a hit with holidaymakers any time of year, but winter is a fantastic time to make the most of the island without the summer crowds.
The sea temperature is still plenty warm enough for watersports so save some time for kayaking, windsurfing or jet-skiing.
Away from the beach, lace up your hiking boots and check out Lanzarote’s volcano-filled interior – don’t miss Jameos del Agua, a hollow lava tube that has been transformed with tropical gardens, restaurants and even a natural auditorium!
Cape Verde
With soft white-sand beaches, turquoise oceans and palm trees swaying in the breeze, we wouldn’t blame you if you thought Cape Verde’s tropical islands were in the Caribbean. In reality, this sub-tropical archipelago off the west coast of Africa is just a six-hour flight from the UK – result!
Take full advantage of the blissful warm weather (temperatures average 26°C) and treat yourself to a winter sun beach escape. You’ll find plenty of package holiday deals in Boa Vista or Sal, where you can chill out on the sand and enjoy a spicy marg while watching one of Cape Verde's spectacular sunsets.
Algarve
Dreaming of winter sunshine closer to home? With daytime temperatures hovering in the high-teens and irresistible low season deals to be snapped up, the Algarve is your winner!
The popular resorts of Albufeira and Lagos still have heaps going on if you’re after family fun on the beach or action-packed activities such as golf and sea kayaking.
Alternatively, make the most of the quieter hotels with a romantic getaway, exploring pretty fishing villages and historic old towns at your leisure.
Morocco
Exploring Morocco’s inland cities in roasting peak summer temps (we’re talking 40°C people) is just not the vibe. Go in winter, however, and you’ll still get fabulous sunshine, but with more manageable highs of 20°C – perfect for a winter sun city break.
Get your haggle on in Marrakech’s sprawling colourful souks, pop into a rooftop cafe for a fresh mint tea, or meander your way through the ancient alleyways of Fez’s medina. Wherever you go, adventure is sure to follow!
Costa del Sol
Translating to ‘Coast of the Sun’, the Costa del Sol certainly doesn’t disappoint as a winter sun destination! Running along southern Spain’s Med coast, the region keeps its wonderfully warm weather during the winter months, plus there’s the benefit of cheaper hotel deals in popular resorts such as Malaga and Marbella.
Elsewhere, look to Benalmadena and Torremolinos for a typical Spanish seaside getaway, Puerto Banus for a stylish couples break, or Mijas for scenery that deserves a spot on your socials.
Malta
Whether you’re after culture-filled mornings exploring city sights or adventurous afternoons island-hopping on your winter sun break, Malta has the lot.
With temperatures averaging 16°C, it's prime time to visit the pint-sized capital, Valletta. Expect Baroque buildings and grand churches galore!
A short ferry ride or boat tour will bring you to Malta’s sister islands, Gozo and Comino, known for their beaches and lagoons. While the sea may prove a little chilly for swimming, the weather is still warm enough for cute picnics and beachside strolls.
Fuerteventura
Boasting year-round sunshine and some of the Canary Islands’ most epic beaches, Fuerteventura deserves a spot on any winter sun destination round up!
You can find bargain package deals in popular resorts such as Corralejo and Costa Caleta throughout the winter months and with average temperatures around 20°C, beach days are a delight.
Watersports are big here, so take to the waves for wind- and kite-surfing before soaking up some rays atop golden sand dunes – Corralejo has some of the island’s biggest and best.
Do you have a favourite winter sun holiday destination? Drop us a tweet @icelollyholiday and let us know!
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