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The best holidays to run to the sun this winter that are just a few hours away

These easy-to-reach destinations are perfect for beating the winter blues.

Camilla Foster
Saturday 25 January 2025 08:49 GMT
Buyuk Cakil beach in Kas, Turkey (Alamy/PA)
Buyuk Cakil beach in Kas, Turkey (Alamy/PA)

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Many of us will be tempted the escape the winter blues and embrace sun-soaked shores with a medium-haul getaway.

Just a few hours by plane, these destinations offer a welcome respite from the cold, promising balmy weather, stunning scenery, and a diverse range of experiences.

Whether your ideal escape involves lounging on pristine beaches, immersing yourself in rich cultures, or seeking outdoor adventures, these top picks will transport you to a world far removed from winterā€™s chill.

<strong>Turkey</strong>

Imagine swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush, breathtaking landscapes ā€“ sounds like a dream, right? Well, make it a reality by heading to Turkeyā€™s stunning coast.

Buyuk Cakil beach in Kas, Turkey (Alamy/PA)
Buyuk Cakil beach in Kas, Turkey (Alamy/PA)

ā€œWinter is a fabulous time to visit Turkey, particularly if youā€™re after more than just a beach holiday,ā€ says Michael Edwards, managing director at Explore Worldwide. ā€œThe sites are more comfortable and quieter, itā€™s great weather for exploring on foot, and itā€™s pleasantly warm to spend all day outside.

ā€œTurkeyā€™s temperature can easily reach the late teens in February.ā€

Kas, located on Turkeyā€™s stunning Mediterranean coast, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history and vibrant local culture.

ā€œTake on scenic coastal trails from Kas, a charming seaport town with a fantastic foodie scene,ā€ recommends Edwards. ā€œSee the distinctive volcanic rock formation of Roque Nublo and follow the network of ā€˜caminos realesā€™ to explore the islandā€™s mountainous interior.ā€

Tenerife

Tenerife is the perfect place to unwind, soak up the sun and achieve a tan that will make all your friends envious.

Playa de Las Teresitas, a famous beach near Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the north of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain
Playa de Las Teresitas, a famous beach near Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the north of Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

ā€œTemperatures usually hover around 22-25C during the day in January,ā€ says Brenda BeltrĆ”n, travel writer and content manager at Holafly. ā€œWinter is actually one of the best times to visit because the islands arenā€™t as crowded as in the summer.ā€

Take in the otherworldly panoramic views of Tenerife from the top of Mount Teide ā€“ an experience that will leave you speechless.

Hiking up Mount Teide in Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain (Alamy/PA)
Hiking up Mount Teide in Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain (Alamy/PA)

ā€œMount Teide is Spainā€™s highest peak, and the surrounding national park is incredible for hiking or just taking in the views. The landscape there feels almost otherworldly,ā€ recollects BeltrĆ”n. ā€œThe town of La Laguna is worth exploring too; itā€™s charming, colourful, and full of history.ā€

<strong>Madeira</strong>

The main island of Madeira is a visual delight, with its stunning volcanic coastlines, green forests and pebbly beaches.

Famous Tropical Botanical Gardens in Funchal town, Madeira island, Portugal (Alamy/PA)
Famous Tropical Botanical Gardens in Funchal town, Madeira island, Portugal (Alamy/PA)

ā€œAverage temperatures are around 18-20C in the winter months,ā€ says Katrina Smith, travel expert at Travel Counsellors. ā€œMake sure to visit the botanical gardens in Funchal which has a stunning collection of plants from around the world.ā€

And remember to pack some sturdy walking shoes, as hiking is the perfect way to discover every corner of the Portuguese-owned island.

ā€œIf you have a head for heights, try one of the islandā€™s famous hiking routes alongside the levadas (canals) that run from the mountains down to the ocean,ā€ suggests?Martin Nolan, global travel expert at Skyscanner. ā€œIf you prefer a more relaxing break, chill out on the volcanic sand beaches or take a dip in the swimming basins at Porto Moniz.

ā€œThese calm pools are sheltered from the Atlantic waves by natural volcanic rock formations.ā€

<strong>Morocco</strong>

Morocco is the ultimate winter sun getaway for travellers seeking an affordable, exciting destination thatā€™s just a short three-hour flight from the UK.

Seagulls flying around blue fishing boats in Essaouira, Morocco (Alamy/PA)
Seagulls flying around blue fishing boats in Essaouira, Morocco (Alamy/PA)

Instead of following the crowds to Marrakech, why not head west and soak up some rays at the gorgeous port city of Essaouira.

ā€œThe chic, chilled coastal gem of Essaouira offers mild 18-20C weather and is the perfect escape in February,ā€ says Gavin Lapidus, company director at travel agent eShores. ā€œSituated on Moroccoā€™s Atlantic coast, Essaouira is celebrated for its beaches, rich history, relaxed atmosphere, and reputation as a haven for artists, musicians, and creatives.ā€

Begin your adventure in the UNESCO-listed medina, where bustling souks are brimming with treasures.

ā€œThe souks offer everything from spices to local art to handmade jewellery and ceramics,ā€ says Lapidus. ā€œA visit to the vibrant fish market is a must where you can watch the daily catch being brought in, then choose your seafood and have it cooked fresh at nearby stalls for an unforgettable meal.ā€

And once you are full of fish, head to the sea and enjoy the quiet beaches.

ā€œNature lovers can take a horse or camel ride along the vast beaches or visit the nearby Argan tree forests, home to the famous tree-climbing goats,ā€ adds Lapidus.

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