Spain, a summer magnet for millions, is often overlooked as a prime winter holiday destination. While far-flung locales in the Caribbean or Asia typically capture the spotlight for winter sun, the Mediterranean nation presents a compelling short-haul alternative. Its agreeable climate and the absence of peak-season crowds make it a discerning choice.
Throughout winter, Spain’s southern provinces frequently experience temperatures hovering around 20C. Perennial favourites like Seville remain sun-drenched from December through to March, with the milder conditions offering perfect opportunities for exploration, unhindered by the sweltering heat that characterises its summer months. Even on the eastern coasts, destinations including Valencia offer opportunities for walks on the beach from Christmas Eve until spring.
The Canary Islands offer the best of Spanish winter sun, and Tenerife is the most popular. As well as being a key summer destination, this island receives six hours of sunshine per day between December and February, with temperature averages in these months standing at around 18C (with average highs around 22C). By contrast, some parts of the UK only get an hour-and-a-half of sunshine per day in winter months. In London, that amount drops to 1 hour 15 minutes, according to analysis by data analytics firm Statista.
Many of the island’s highlights are its natural sites. It is home to the highest peak in Spain, Mount Teide, an active volcano that towers over the national park of the same name. While a cable car can get you to the top, there are plenty of hiking routes among the red rock and rugged terrain. If exploring doesn’t appeal, don’t fret – the weather is still good enough to spend the day on the beach too, whether you’re looking for water sports in the coastal resorts of the Costa Adeje or exploration in the capital, Santa Cruz, before lying on Playa Teresitas.
Though cooler than other destinations on this list, Valencia offers pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine in the winter months. It is not uncommon to see locals at the beach from December to February, though many stay away from the water despite temperatures hovering around 17C. This is a city that thrives in winter, as many of its best sights and most popular activities suit slightly lower temperatures. A cycle along the five-or-so miles of the Turia Park is practically a rite of passage, and at the end of the route lies the City of Arts and Sciences, one of Spain’s modern marvels and the site of avant-garde buildings, verdant gardens and Europe’s largest aquarium.
The Andalusian capital is famed for its year-round high temperatures, and while average summer highs of 36C are enough to deter would-be visitors, winter highs of between 16 and 18C are far more welcoming. A city break in Seville offers an impressively deep range of culture, history and landmarks, from evening flamenco shows to cruises along the Guadalquivir River. Several of the highlights – including the Old Town, cathedral, La Giralda Tower, Moorish Alcazar and Casa de Pilatos – are within an easy walking distance of each other.
