Swap snow for sand between the toes, and beanie hats for bikinis! This year, why not forego the UK’s characteristic wet, grey weather, and head to warmer climes for a winter break to remember? If you need some inspiration on where to go to escape the winter blues, here are some top destinations from Booking.com for some much-needed sunshine.
Lukanda Placentines – Seville, Spain
Southern Spain may not have the warmest temperatures in the world over the winter months, but it is the sunniest spot in Europe and, with temperatures in the low teens, it’s a pleasant place to catch some winter rays. The city is decked out with twinkling lights and decorations. You can enjoy Christmas markets, concerts, parades and nativity scenes too.
Centrally located and a stone’s throw from Seville’s cathedral, the Alcazar and Plaza de España, Lukanda Placentines is a great base for exploring the Andalusian capital.
The temperature in December: 17 degrees Celsius (high), 8 degrees Celsius (low)
Hotel La Quinta Roja, The Senses Collection – Canary Islands, Spain
Whilst the Atlantic Ocean might be a bit chilly in the winter months, the Canary Islands certainly pack a punch when it comes to getting your hit of winter sun. With highs of 21 degrees, it’s a balmy break away from the grey weather in the UK!
Just three minutes walk from the beach and 50 yards from the natural swimming pools on the coastline, Hotel La Quinta Roja in Tenerife is a restored 16th-century mansion, featuring traditional wooden ceilings and décor. You’ll be well-placed to take in the sights of the historic and picturesque town centre, or take a wander around the Port of Garachico, less than a mile away from the accommodation.
The temperature in December: 21 degrees Celsius (high), and 16 degrees Celsius (low).
The Royal Apollonia – Limassol, Cyprus
December is a fabulous month to visit Cyprus when the temperatures are still mild enough to explore the country’s attractions and with an average of five hours of daily sunshine, travellers can still catch some rays on the beach. Any city in Cyprus will have similar temperatures because of the island’s location in the far east of the Mediterranean Sea. At the Royal Apollonia, the hotel has the vision to combine luxury first-class hospitality with the amazing views and ambience of a seafront hotel. The hotel is a perfect match as it caters for all travellers with the choice of 3 restaurants, with different culinary cuisine.
The temperature in December: 19 degrees Celsius (high), 17 degrees Celsius (low).
Hyatt Regency Malta – St Julian’s, Malta
The Maltese weather is wonderful in December, and certainly warm enough to feel like a holiday with several hours of sunshine each day. With fewer crowds around travellers will find delight in the Mediterranean landscapes, seascapes, sunrises and sunsets. Hyatt Regency Malta is located in the heart of St Julian’s, Malta’s premier resort. It is an ideal base to explore the island’s eight thousand years of history and is set within walking distance from some of the finest lifestyle alternatives in the city and a mere stone’s throw away from the pristine beach on St George’s bay.
The temperature in December: 18 degrees Celsius (high), 11 degrees Celsius (low)