3 Hidden Gems for Winter Sunshine – Lesser-Known Warm Destinations

With the Winter weather in full swing, it’s no wonder many of us are daydreaming about warmer climates. Beautiful beaches, tropical paradises, and relaxing (or adventurous) activities all await those looking for a quick getaway from the grey skies and plunging temperatures. Luckily, there are many great locations that can offer the ideal escape for you and your family when looking for Winter sun, so where should you go?

Whilst there are many popular destinations, there are many other lesser-known places dotted around the globe well worth considering. Below are 3 of these hidden gems that you may not have thought about before, but will all provide the perfect seasonal getaway. If you want to avoid the most crowded spots, here are our top locations to research further. But before we reveal each one, you’ll need to think about a few essentials first.

Travel Checklist for Your Winter Sunshine Getaway:

• Valid Passport – Ensure your passport is valid before booking any trip. Check each destination for specific entry requirements which you can quickly do on the Foreign Travel Advice pages on gov.UK. In general, your passport should be under 10 years old and have at least 3 months remaining before expiring from when you plan to return.
• Travel Insurance – Travelling with peace of mind is essential, so be sure to research and compare travel insurance providers. Look for travel insurance policies that cover emergency medical expenses, as well as travel delays and disruptions. You may want to seek extras like gadget cover as well as policies that cover pre-existing medical conditions too if relevant to you. 
• Weather-Appropriate Clothing – It may be cold here in the UK, but you’ll want to pack light, breathable clothing suitable for your destination. Keep in mind though that the evenings will possibly be chillier, so bring a jacket or some layers just in case. 
• Sun Protection – Don’t forget your sun cream, sunglasses, and a suitable hat to protect against strong sun. The last thing you want is to be caught out on day one and have to avoid the sun for the rest of your trip!

According to travel insurer Staysure, 67% of holidaymakers give themselves at least three months or more to research and plan a typical holiday abroad. Planning well ahead will ensure you won’t forget any of the essentials, so it’s always a good idea. If you have all of the above already checked or taken care of, here’s our list of destinations that will hopefully inspire your Winter travel plans.

Madeira

Long been known to offer tropical scenery and temperatures everywhere you look, Madeira should be high on your list. Its year-round comfortable climate is the ideal getaway amongst its stunning landscapes offering plenty to explore and do, as well as for those looking just to relax on a beach. Located in the Atlantic southwest of Portugal, Madeira enjoys an average daily temperature of just under 20°C during the Winter months – it makes you feel warm just thinking about it. 

The vibrant capital in the South of the island, Funchal, is a good place to start where you’ll find colourful gardens and a lively market scene, as well as a base to explore day trips such as whale watching, canyoning, and diving amongst others.

The island has a unique system of levadas, or water channels, that dates back to the 15th Century and now provides miles of scenic walking paths that wind through forests and open onto spectacular mountain views. Whilst the island is famous for the wine of the same name, and you should definitely sample some with dinner, there are many things to keep you busy throughout the days. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Laurisilva forest is one of the best-preserved forests of its kind and a must-see, whilst Cabo Girão offers a stunning cliffside view with a glass platform for those feeling daring. Also, Porto Moniz is the place to go and relax in the clear-water natural pools after a long day of walking.

The Gambia

Heading to the West of Africa, you’ll find The Gambia’s beautiful beaches which are well worth the 6 hour flight time to get to. Whilst you may not have had this small African nation in mind before, once you’ve discovered more about The Gambia you can easily see why it makes the list. The warm temperature, the coastal paradise setting, and the fact you’ll be in the same time zone as the UK are all a plus, as well as the uncrowded feel of relaxing on the beaches compared to other popular locations. 

Whilst resting on the sandy beaches of Kotu and Kololi are enough for most tourists, there’s plenty to seek out and explore. The Abuko Nature Reserve is a must-visit, where you can spot everything from monkeys to crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The country’s welcoming communities provide an immersive experience, and you’ll certainly feel relaxed and away from your usual day-to-day enjoying temperatures that are regularly near 30°C during the Winter.

Sicily

You may have already been considering Italy as a superb spot for Winter sun, but by heading further South to Sicily, you can enjoy the warmest temperatures and less of the crowds you’d find on the mainland. Enjoying the beautiful Mediterranean climate, Sicily is the largest island in the region and has a great mix of relaxation and historical sites to explore that are perfect for those looking for a varied holiday. It’s generally cooler during the Winter season which makes it more comfortable for exploration when compared to the searing heat in the summer.

You have the highlights of two volcanos, Mount Etna and Stromboli, which are a must-see even if you get to visit just one, and you can also wander around the ruins of the Valley of the Temples in the South which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site built by the Ancient Greeks covering 13 sq. kms. If you love Italian cuisine, there’s much to enjoy in Sicily of course, with the Cannoli a famous export, whilst fresh seafood and aromatic citrus fruits liven up many dishes. The beauty of cities like Catania and Palermo offers hours of things to see and explore such as Palermo Cathedral and the Norman Palace, perfect for a bit of time away from the beaches. A Winter visit not only dodges the peak tourist season in Sicily but also captures the authentic, slow-paced lifestyle that many people love about Southern Italy.

Choose a Winter Sun Destination Away From The Obvious

Sometimes, you just want something familiar and easy to enjoy to get away from the cold Winter here at home. However, rather than book the most popular destinations, you should consider the above and take the time to plan a unique Winter sun holiday instead. The Gambia, Sicily, and Madeira are just a few of the many stunning alternatives to think about, so hopefully, you’ve found a bit of inspiration. Wherever you end up going, relax, and enjoy some much-needed downtime.

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