Struggling with the dark nights and even darker mornings? Need inspiration for last minute getaways for some winter sun within your budget? This article should give you all the inspiration you need.
We spoke with our travel partners, Idle Travel for the best deals and the most popular places to share with you for a last minute winter sun getaway. Here’s what they told us…
Madeira
Madeira, an island in the Atlantic Ocean, has a subtropical climate with sunshine all year round, including in the winter. The south side of the island is usually warmer.
When to visit
- December, January, and February: Daytime temperatures can be around 20°C in the lower parts of the island.
What to do
- Sunbathe: Madeira has winter sun.
- Go whale and dolphin watching: Fewer tourists in the winter can make for a more authentic experience.
- Go hiking and mountain biking: The winter climate is good for these activities.
What to expect
- Rainfall: Madeira can experience rain in the winter, especially in December.
- Sunshine: Madeira receives a good amount of sunshine in the winter, but it can vary by month.
The Caribbean
The Caribbean is a great place to visit in the winter for sun and warm weather. Some of the best Caribbean islands to visit in the winter include Antigua, Aruba, St. Lucia, and Curaçao.
Antigua – located in the Lesser Antilles, Antigua has over 365 beaches and highs of 28°C in the winter. The island has seven hours of sunshine a day year-round.
Aruba – known for its white coral beaches, Aruba is a great place to relax on the beach and has sunshine year-round.
St. Lucia – features dramatic scenery, including the Pitons, rainforests, and volcanic beaches.
Curaçao – a great place to visit in February for its Carnival celebrations, parades, and festivals
Weather – the Caribbean has a tropical climate year-round, with temperatures in the winter ranging from the low 80s°F (high 20s°C).
Canary Islands
The Canary Islands are a popular destination for winter sun in Spain. The islands have a pleasant climate year-round, with average winter temperatures around 20°C and little rain. They are ideal for sightseeing and hiking in winter, and the sea is still warm enough for swimming.
Tenerife – the warmest Canary Island in winter, with a bustling city life in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. You can also climb Mount Teide, Spain’s highest peak.
Lanzarote – known as “the island of eternal spring”, Lanzarote has temperatures that rarely fall below 16°C. It’s also home to Timanfaya National Park, a UNESCO-protected area with a unique volcanic landscape.
El Hierro – the smallest and most remote Canary Island, with dramatic volcanic deserts, ancient forests, lava fields, banana plantations, and wind farms.
La Palma – a peaceful winter escape with verdant forests and charming towns.
Gran Canaria – Has the warmest Christmas weather of the Canary Islands, with an average temperature of 23°C.
So the question is if you want a last minute winter sun getaway – how soon can you pack? We think you’re packed already!
Call Idle Travel today on 01274 619141 and follow them on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with all the latest travel hot spots and news.
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