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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.

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Your support makes all the difference.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 winterās 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 Turkeyās stunning coast.

āWinter is a fabulous time to visit Turkey, particularly if youāre after more than just a beach holiday,ā says Michael Edwards, managing director at Explore Worldwide. āThe sites are more comfortable and quieter, itās great weather for exploring on foot, and itās pleasantly warm to spend all day outside.
āTurkeyās temperature can easily reach the late teens in February.ā
Kas, located on Turkeyās stunning Mediterranean coast, is a charming town that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history and vibrant local culture.
āTake on scenic coastal trails from Kas, a charming seaport town with a fantastic foodie scene,ā recommends Edwards. āSee the distinctive volcanic rock formation of Roque Nublo and follow the network of ācaminos realesā to explore the islandās 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.

āTemperatures usually hover around 22-25C during the day in January,ā says Brenda BeltrĆ”n, travel writer and content manager at Holafly. āWinter is actually one of the best times to visit because the islands arenāt 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.

āMount Teide is Spainās 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. āThe town of La Laguna is worth exploring too; itās 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.

āAverage temperatures are around 18-20C in the winter months,ā says Katrina Smith, travel expert at Travel Counsellors. āMake 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.
āIf you have a head for heights, try one of the islandās 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. āIf you prefer a more relaxing break, chill out on the volcanic sand beaches or take a dip in the swimming basins at Porto Moniz.
āThese 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 thatās just a short three-hour flight from the UK.

Instead of following the crowds to Marrakech, why not head west and soak up some rays at the gorgeous port city of Essaouira.
āThe 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. āSituated on Moroccoās 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.
āThe souks offer everything from spices to local art to handmade jewellery and ceramics,ā says Lapidus. āA 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.
āNature 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.