Already fantasising about your next dose of vitamin sea? Thankfully, it’s never too soon to book a winter sun holiday – especially when the dreary wet weather starts to kick in. To help point you in the right direction, we’ve picked our favourite winter sun destinations that will happily see you through November to the end of March. They all have the right balance of good weather and low-season benefits. Each of these destinations also has enough to keep you on your feet, or on the flip side, to ensure you’re relaxed every step of the way!
1. Grenada
Known as the Spice Isle for its production of fragrant nutmeg, cinnamon and mace, Grenada is a lush green gem in the Caribbean Sea. Head to any of the island’s beaches and you’ll be greeted with serene turquoise waters, super-soft sand, and a smattering of coconut trees. Grenada also has a delectable food scene centred around its famous spices, incredible seafood, tropical fruit and hot pepper.
Activities for adventurers are practically endless. You could go hiking the rainforest, swimming in waterfalls, scuba diving around pristine reefs or just driving through winding hills taking in the amazing views and wildlife!
Where to stay in Grenada: Villa Hummingbird | Seagrape Beach Suites | Villa Dockyard
2. Lanzarote, Canary Islands
The Canary Islands is a renowned destination for catching some winter sun. But how did Lanzarote snag the pick of the bunch? For starters, Lanzarote’s ethereal beauty simply can’t be contested. But combine that with the knowledge that it’s one of the cheapest destinations for short-haul winter sun and you’re onto a winner. As a winter sun destination, Lanzarote really does tick off all the boxes (if not most): plenty of sunshine – with temperatures between 19-24°C, relaxation and adventure. So, while you happily escape the summer flurry of British holidaymakers, use your time on the island to truly explore every offering.
Unmistakable beaches, extraordinary geology and interesting architectural sights – most of which have been aesthetically designed by the late Cesar Manrique. If you fancy really getting up close to the island’s culture and architectural integrity, visit the Cesar Manrique House Museum which is well worth the £10 entry fee.
Where to stay in Lanzarote: Calero Bay | Villa Ansite | Villa Amethyst
3. Thailand
There are many sides to Thailand, and the rich cultural heritage seeps through them all. Many tourists will find themselves in the energetic and vibrant party city of Bangkok or the vibrant heart of Chiang Mai. While these are both incredible destinations to visit, one of the best things about Thailand is that not far from these metropolitan hubs the traditional farming village is still thriving alongside small-scale fisheries and Buddhist temples. Theravada Buddhism unifies all aspects of life in Thai culture, and the tiered temple rooftops are icons of the country. Thai culture can also be tasted in its famous cuisine, made with fresh local ingredients like lemongrass, chilli and seafood wherever you go.
Active travellers will love the mountain treks available in northern Thailand, where hill tribe villages and whitewater rafting abound in the fresh air. Thailand is also an amazing – and quite cheap – place for avid and budding scuba divers. Outside the Thai island of Ko Tao, you can even dive with whale sharks!
Where to stay in Thailand: Sarojin Garden | Villa Oaka | Villa Kasika
4. Cyprus
Romantic old-world harbours, long stretches of sandy beaches and compelling history – Cyprus is a cracking choice for your winter sun escapade. Although Cyprus will appeal to most travellers, it’s especially great for those seeking a balance of not too hot, not too cold temperatures. Now, you may already know a thing or two about the divide between the Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots, but crossing the line between the South and North (which we couldn’t recommend enough) will put the country’s complex history into perspective – all the while you experience the two Cypriot communities which are both equally as interesting.
But it’s certainly not a trip to Cyprus if you don’t sink your teeth into some meze, which is a delicious way to familiarise yourself with the local cuisine. The dishes are small but incredibly filling. From hummus, sausages, kebabs and everything in between – try anything and everything. Your taste buds will thank you for it.
Where to stay in Cyprus: Villa Aqua | Villa Kasia | Villa Oceania
5. Morocco
The dizzyingly beautiful Morocco is where the most diversity can be found. From the whirlwind markets of Marrakech to the remarkable sand dunes of the Sahara desert to the breathtaking backdrop of snow-capped mountains – it’s as though it was created for endless travel adventures.
Enjoying Morocco starts with simple pleasures like drinking a mint tea in the nearest café as you watch the world go by. That’s exactly what the locals do! But of course, there’s more to Morocco than meets the eye, for example, you can learn how to roll couscous (and then devour it all), take up camel trekking, or eat your body weight in tajines. And don’t forget to indulge in a luxury spa treatment or two to really elevate your winter sun getaway. You deserve it!
Where to stay in Morocco: Villa Zaria | Villa Atlas | Riad Gypsum
6. Caribbean
The Caribbean is truly the epitome of a winter sun destination. With its humidity low and evening temperatures mild, winter is the best season to take a trip to the Caribbean. As you might know, however, the Caribbean is much more than just one destination. In fact, it is made up of over 5,000 islands, reefs and cays, each and every one of which has something unique to offer. As there are so many Caribbean destinations to choose from, a great way to decide on which one suits you best is to check out our handy quiz for a personalised recommendation.
A few things a winter holiday to the Caribbean is sure to deliver are white sand beaches, cerulean waves, and lush green forests inhabited by beautiful flora and tropical birds. Snorkelling and scuba diving are a dream in these waters, where colourful fish, imposing shipwrecks and coral reefs abound. In fact, one of the best ways to explore the islands’ coastlines is by water. Hiring a powerboat or going on a kayaking tour are great options for budding explorers. But these islands also have amazing communities and cultures to discover in between catching waves and digging your toes in the sand, and a Caribbean holiday should never be rushed. Consider yourself on ‘island time’.
Where to stay in the Caribbean: Villa Iree, Jamaica | Villa Kessi, St Lucia| Coconut Ridge 5, Barbados
7. Bali
The paradise island known as the Land of the Gods, or more commonly Bali, is one of the most unique destinations in the world. The tropical climate here makes it perfect for a winter sun holiday. Spending long, hot days among the natural splendour of the island, is a dream for many. Do you picture yourself having adventures on white sand beaches with sparkling blue waters on one side and rugged, wild volcanoes on the other? Then Bali is the place for you. Just as many people gather here for the exciting nightlife and luxury, as they do for the incredible surf and for fun-filled family holidays. The happy and peaceful culture is attractive to most travellers, and you are sure to get on well with the laid-back locals.
The south side of Bali is more popular among tourists and has loads to offer in terms of culture and food (Bali has some of the best vegetarian cuisines you’ll ever taste in your life). However, you might find yourself coming across some of the most beautiful greenery, rice paddies, waterfalls and villages on the less crowded north side of the island. Another magical place to visit if you are a true nature-lover is the small island of Nusa Penida, less than an hour by boat from the mainland.
Where to stay in Bali: Villa West | Villa Kedeiri | Villa Malati
8. Mexico
There’s nowhere quite as lively as Mexico; from balmy beaches and tasty tacos to Mayan temples and mariachi bands, Mexico is a cultural wonderland and thoroughly diverse, from the Pacific Coast to the Yucatan Peninsula on the Caribbean Coast. And it’s good news for sunseekers – once the rainy season ends in October, the weather echoes this bright, sunny culture. If you’re hoping for endless sunshine and no chance of rain, December through February are the perfect times to visit. Even though this is known as the coolest time of the year, temperatures still rise to a scorching 28 Celsius so you can get your tan on at the idyllic, sandy beaches.
The famous ‘Day of the Dead’ is celebrated on November 2nd and although it is a spiritual day to remember those who have died, it is also a day for celebrating life. Expect music, dancing and carnival-like parades and spot the locals decked out in traditional dress and spooky face paints!
Where to stay in Mexico: Soliman Bay Bungalow 3| Villa Zacil | Villa Ventanas
Yearning for winter sun? Check out our full portfolio of villa holidays on Oliver’s Travels, or if you just want to know more, have a read of our 24 Destinations for 2024. Contact our concierge team for any questions!
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