While millions flock to Spain during the summer months, savvy British travellers are discovering the country's remarkable potential as a winter sun destination. Offering balmy temperatures around 20°C and significantly smaller crowds, Spain's southern regions and islands present an ideal short-haul alternative to Caribbean or Asian getaways.
Canary Islands: Spain's Winter Sun Capital
The Canary Islands consistently rank as Spain's premier winter destination, with Tenerife leading the pack. Between December and February, the island enjoys an impressive six hours of daily sunshine, with average temperatures hovering around 18°C and peaks reaching 22°C. This contrasts sharply with UK conditions, where London manages just over one hour of daily sunshine in December.
Tenerife's natural wonders provide the main attraction, dominated by Mount Teide - Spain's highest peak. This active volcano presides over a stunning national park where visitors can explore red rock formations and rugged terrain through numerous hiking trails. For those preferring relaxation, beaches remain inviting throughout winter, particularly in coastal resorts like Costa Adeje.
Continental Gems: Andalusian Warmth
Seville, renowned as continental Europe's warmest city, transforms into a perfect winter destination with temperatures between 16-18°C. The Andalusian capital's cultural offerings shine during the cooler months, from flamenco performances to river cruises along the Guadalquivir. Key landmarks including the cathedral, Alcazar palace, and Plaza de España become comfortably accessible without summer's intense heat.
Further east along the coast, Malaga offers similar advantages with average highs of 18°C. The city combines beachfront promenades with rich cultural experiences, including the Picasso Museum and the magnificent Alcazaba fortress. Meanwhile, the charming town of Nerja provides a quieter alternative with its cliff-top Balcon de Europa viewpoint and extensive cave networks featuring ancient paintings.
Coastal Charm and Island Alternatives
Valencia maintains pleasant winter conditions with temperatures around 17°C, perfect for cycling through Turia Park or exploring the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences. The city's vibrant neighbourhoods like Ruzafa and Carmen come alive with alfresco dining and New Year's celebrations.
Lanzarote secures its position as another Canary Islands favourite, boasting average winter highs of 21°C. The island captivates visitors with its otherworldly Timanfaya National Park and the extraordinary Jameos del Agua cave system. The capital Arrecife combines colonial architecture with city beaches and lively evening entertainment.
Whether seeking volcanic landscapes, historic cities, or coastal relaxation, Spain delivers diverse winter sun options within easy reach of UK airports. With temperatures consistently outperforming British winter conditions and flight times under three hours, these destinations offer compelling alternatives to long-haul winter escapes.
