As temperatures drop and snow is forecast across parts of Scotland, travellers seeking winter sun can look to several European destinations where temperatures remain in the double digits. TimeOut has shared its top picks for December and January, ranging from the Canary Islands to the Albanian Riviera.
Canary Islands, Spain
The Canary Islands rank as Europe's top spot for winter sun, with average temperatures of 18C in December. Those heading on a New Year break could enjoy temperatures of 20C and above. Located off the coast of northwest Africa, the islands offer eight inhabited destinations to choose from.
For the warmest weather, Tenerife is the largest and most popular island, while La Palma offers a more peaceful and laidback getaway.
Budva Riviera, Montenegro
With average temperatures of around 14C over the winter months, Montenegro's Budva Riviera provides striking beaches and clifftop views. While the area has a bustling party scene during New Year festivities, it offers a more relaxed experience in the winter season, allowing visitors to explore new parts of the country.
Sicily, Italy
Sicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, can see temperatures up to 17C in December. Visitors can explore UNESCO sites such as the Valley of the Temple and medieval city streets. TimeOut has also named Sicily its top location for food this winter, with iconic dishes including cannoli and arancini.
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Nicknamed the pearl of the Adriatic, Dubrovnik averages 14C during the winter season, making it ideal for exploring without the sun beating down. The Old Town dates back to the 9th century and was used in the HBO series Game of Thrones. Hiking enthusiasts can visit Srd Mountain, and travellers can take a trip to nearby Lokrum Island, home to a peacock-filled botanical garden and an abandoned monastery.
The Albanian Riviera
The Albanian Riviera offers a stunning coastline with average temperatures of 13C. Holidaymakers can find bargains as accommodations drop prices for the winter months. The area features a dramatic 120km coastline, and visitors can take a 30-minute ferry ride to explore the Greek island of Corfu.
