6 of the best places for winter sun in the Mediterranean
Dreaming of winter warmth without the long-haul flight? Here’s our pick of the best Mediterranean winter sun destinations.
Dreaming of winter warmth without the long-haul flight? Here’s our pick of the best Mediterranean winter sun destinations.
The thermometer is starting to dip, the days are getting shorter, and – dare we say it – the festive season is right around the corner. But it’s not too late to plan an escape from the UK’s plunging temperatures.
We’ve rounded up our top picks for winter sun in the Mediterranean. So, put those woolly jumpers to one side and dig the sunscreen and get your sunglasses back out, because these destinations are only a short flight away.
The Greek Island of Crete combines milder winter weather with archaeological treasures and breathtaking outdoor scenery, so it’s a good option if you’re into history or hiking. The high mountains of the interior are often covered in snow from December onwards, but down on the coast you'll be donning a t-shirt.
Explore the ancient Palace of Knossos, enjoy leisurely taverna lunches in Heraklion’s Venetian harbour, or lace up your walking boots and head for the island’s famous gorges or high peaks.
Crete’s southern coast is known for its sunny microclimate, where you can take your pick from luxury resorts in seafront towns like Elounda. In these parts you can enjoy mild days, but just be sure to pack layers for mornings and evenings.
An escorted group tour that spotlights Crete’s highlights, which include some of Europe’s most fascinating archaeological sites – including the Palaces of Knossos, Phaistos and Malia.
You can examine Bronze Age artefacts in local museums, walk the cobbled streets of Minoan towns and eat in atmospheric restaurants.
The charms of Cyprus lie in its rich culture, coastal cities and cuisine. Aphrodite’s Isle – said to be the mythical birthplace of the goddess of love and beauty – offers intriguing archaeological sites, golden beaches, and whitewashed towns brimming with wine bars and meze restaurants.
In the winter the temperatures are lower and the crowds fewer – so it’s a great time to enjoy its archeological sights without the queues or head off into the stunning Troodos mountains - with its lush trails and charming villages.
Cyprus also happens to be one of the sunniest places in the Mediterranean year-round, so swimming and sunbathing are often still on the cards even in the cooler months.
This escorted group tour explores Cyprus’ spectacular north, including the capital, Nicosia, and the ruins of age-old Salamis, once a powerful Greek city state.
Malta’s balmy temperatures make it a top choice for a getaway all year round. Small but perfectly formed, the island combines warm winter weather with a compact island feel, making it easy to explore its historical sites and make pitstops in its outdoor cafés.
Along with a series of picturesque coves and laid-back seafront towns, Malta has a masterpiece of a capital city – Valletta is a beguiling mix of Baroque architecture and sophisticated restaurants.
The neighbouring isles of Gozo and Comino, meanwhile, are home to some of the bluest, clearest waters around.
The Ax Odycy is an ever-popular member of Saga Holidays’ Hosted Hotels collection.
Overlooking Salina Bay on Malta’s northeast coast, it's a perfect base offering a choice of five restaurants, two pools and a spa. The historic attractions of Valletta and Sliema are both nearby.
For Mediterranean winter sun just a hop from the UK, Portugal is an easy option. For the best weather, head south, for the Algarve. The beaches here are beautiful, and the towns vary from bustling to laid-back, so you set the pace. For the softest sands, consider Albufeira or Portimão.
Elsewhere, the lively capital, Lisbon, welcomes visitors with its pastel de nata bakeries, hilltop sea views, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Then there’s gastronomy giant, Porto – a smorgasbord of characterful eateries, the world’s best port, and some seriously photogenic bridges.
Wherever you choose, expect plenty of blue skies, superb food, and a warm Portuguese welcome.
The Douro Valley is the oldest demarcated wine region in the world.
Join Saga’s escorted group tour which takes in the highlights of Porto with a chance to sample its famous drink. Then travel on the river, by train and road to spend the next days exploring the historic wineries, rustic villages, and medieval towns of the Douro Valley.
Sicily has tons to offer in the winter months. In one holiday you can spend time relaxing on quiet beaches, hiking in hills scented by oranges and lemons, and even skiing down the slopes of Mount Etna.
In the winter, visitors get to experience the island at a slower pace, free from the crowds and long lines of the busy summer season.
You’ll find plenty of sunshine and pleasantly mild days – temperatures average 15-16°C but can reach 20°C – ideal temperatures for shopping in charming Taormina, visiting the ancient temples of Agrigento, or simply people watching in sunny squares and savouring al fresco arancini.
Join Saga’s Sicily – Jewel of the Mediterranean tour to circle the island. You’ll take in picture-perfect towns, architectural gems, and local food and wine tastings.
Destinations include Palermo, Syracuse and Taormina, and the must-see Valley of the Temples and Mount Etna.
Find out moreIt might not always be swimsuit weather in southern Spain in the winter months, but it’s usually mild enough for a break in hotspots like the Costa Blanca and the Costa del Sol. It’s an ideal time to stroll the beach promenades and cobbled old towns without the crowds, as well as sample the local tapas – avoiding the restaurant queues you’d find in high summer.
Spain’s cultural icons are also big draws at this time of year. Granada’s jaw-dropping Alhambra Palace, Seville’s ornate palaces, and Valencia’s historic old town are just a few of your sightseeing options. Alternatively, head into the countryside for nature walks and birdwatching.
The elegant and palatial-looking H10 Estepona Palace is geared up for a chilled-out winter sun getaway, with a sleek infinity pool, gardens overlooking the shoreline and a lovely location away from the tourist hotspots of the Costa del Sol.
Saga offers escorted tours throughout Europe and as far afield as Canada, Australia and even Uzbekistan, plus hotel stays in popular European hotspots including Spain, Portugal and Greece.
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