With over 850 hours of winter sunshine and temperatures reaching 21C in February, this island offers the perfect escape from Britain’s cold weather
Tenerife is an ideal winter sun destination(Image: Getty)
Winter has officially descended upon the UK, bringing with it a flurry of snow. However, if you’re not a fan of frosty mornings, there’s no need to fly halfway around the globe for some sunshine.
Sure, Caribbean islands are a safe bet for hot weather, but if you’re simply seeking a place where you don’t have to bundle up every time you step out, there’s a European hotspot that should be on your list.
Tenerife has earned the title of Europe’s sunniest winter destination, boasting over 850 hours of winter sunshine. The Canary Islands are already a hit with sun worshippers due to their consistently warm temperatures throughout the year, but Tenerife takes the cake with an average temperature of 20-21C in January and February.
Granted, it might not be warm enough for a dip in the sea, but it’s perfect for a leisurely stroll along the beach – and Tenerife is home to plenty of stunning beaches.
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Popular spots like Playa de las Vistas and Playa de las Teresitas tend to be packed in the summer, but come winter they’re relatively peaceful, offering the perfect setting for a tranquil walk along the soft sands. For something a bit more unique, Playa Jardin with its black volcanic sands provides a striking backdrop for photos!, reports the Express.
Another advantage is that temperatures remain pleasant enough for sightseeing without becoming uncomfortably hot or forcing you to rise at dawn for activities like hiking. The mild climate is perfect for discovering attractions such as Teide National Park or the island’s stunning botanical gardens.
Nature enthusiasts will also find winter particularly rewarding for whale watching, as these magnificent sea mammals can be spotted from November through to May.
Despite being the quieter season, numerous hotels and eateries continue trading, meaning you’ll avoid the summer party crowds whilst still enjoying a lively atmosphere. That said, it’s important to remember that larger nightclubs and bars typically shut during this period, so winter visits to Tenerife offer a more relaxed ambience compared to the school holiday rush.
Little wonder, then, that Tenerife recently claimed the title of Europe’s sunniest winter destination in research conducted by travel specialists Luxury France Tours. The largest of the Canary Islands secured first place with more than 800 hours of sunshine, which researchers say “[make] it the brightest winter escape in Europe”.
For sun-seekers, Spain as a whole deserves serious consideration; remarkably, 8 of the top 10 destinations were Spanish. The complete rankings are available below for additional travel inspiration.
If you’re on the hunt for year-round sunshine, fret not, as we’ve compiled a list of hotspots for every month of the year.
Europe’s sunniest destinations
- Tenerife, Spain
- Almeria, Spain
- Cartagena, Spain
- Murcia, Spain
- Tarragona, Spain
- Valencia, Spain
- Turin, Italy
- Barcelona, Spain
- Catania, Italy
- Malaga, Spain
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