6 Incredible Winter Sun Destinations available from Belfast
Now that we’ve settled into 2018 and back into our daily routine, we can’t help but daydream of faraway golden beaches, clear blue skies and ice-cold cocktails in the scorching sunshine. For most of us, the summer still feels so far away. But why wait until then to get your vitamin D fix? Some destinations are lucky to experience a sunny climate all year round and with direct flights available from Belfast, what’s stopping you?
To help with your holiday planning, we’ve collated 6 of the most popular hot spots worth visiting this Winter.
Lanzarote
With a sub-tropical climate, the beauty of the Canaries is that you can visit all year round and be pretty much guaranteed sunshine. Home to some of the best beaches in the Islands, Lanzarote hosts superb mountainous landscape, volcanoes and black sand beaches. Experience the islands live volcano at The Timanfaya National Park and look on as chefs cook lunch using heat generated from the active volcano. There’s lots of family – friendly attractions to keep the kids entertained too, Rancho Texas and Aquapark Lanzarote are both popular choices.
Playa Dorada beach in Playa Blanca, southern part of Lanzarote
Gran Canaria
Boasting almost 60 kilometres of beautiful white sand beaches, Gran Canaria offers everything from quaint coastal villages to traditional old town charm and urban beaches right in the heart of the city. The vibrant capital, Las Palmas offers a range of restaurant choices, with seafood a popular menu feature. If you’re the adventurous type, you’ll find scope for water sports, cycling or hiking trails in the stunning pine forests and mountainous terrain.
Puerto de Mogan, Gran Canaria
Tenerife
With the average Winter temperature reaching 20C and above, Tenerife, much like it’s neighbouring islands, offers a host of idyllic beaches, stunning landscape and charming villages. Just a four-hour flight away, Tenerife tops the UK’s holiday makers choice year on year. Most of the island’s accommodation is situated in Costa Adeje, Los Cristiano and Playa de las Americas, where you’re sure to experience a lively buzz with lots to do for families, couples and the more mature visitor.
Costa Adeje, Tenerife
Fuerteventura
The second largest of the Canary Islands, Fuerteventura is home to over 150 km of unspoiled coastline with golden beaches and turquoise waters. Guaranteed sunshine and insignificant amounts of rain make it the perfect winter destination. Corralejo, the largest resort on the island, offers fun filled activities including jeep safaris, wind surfing and mountain biking, that’s if you’re the adventurous type! Food lovers can sample the local “Majorero” goats cheese in one of the islands cheeseries.
Morro Jable town on Jandia peninsula, Fuerteventura
Algarve, Portugal
While temperatures won’t be as high as the Canary Islands (ranging from 16C-20C), don’t let that stop you from experiencing the year-round charm of the Algarve. If anything, this Portuguese resort can be more enjoyable out of season, with pleasant sunshine for sightseeing and fewer crowds. If you’re lucky to be visiting in February, every Shrove Tuesday and the preceding weekend, the region celebrates; Carnival style! You’ll find colourful displays and celebrations in many of the villages throughout the Algarve.
Tip: Temperatures tend to drop significantly in the evenings, so pack sensibly!
Lagos in Ponta da Piedade, Algarve
Costa Del Sol
Enjoy the mild Mediterranean Winter sunshine in one of Europe’s renowned destinations, Costa del sol. With an average of 325 days of sunshine every year, this Southern Spanish resort offers the perfect escape from the Winter chill. There’s plenty to do, from exploring the traditional whitewashed villages and stunning architecture to relaxing in one of the many restaurants showcasing the local cuisine.
One of Spain’s greatest treasures, Alhambra Palace in Granada is a must-see tourist attraction. Tivoli world in Benalmádena is perfect for a family day out, while Puerto Banús guarantees a buzzing night out (and you might spot a celebrity or two).
Duquesa Port, Costa del Sol
Feeling tempted yet? Direct flights to these fabulous locations are available from Belfast International Airport and Belfast City Airport. Go on, treat yourself to some sunshine and relaxation this Winter – you deserve it!