The search for the perfect winter escape from the UK's gloom has a new champion, and it's not in the Canaries. The island of Sal in Cape Verde has been crowned the world's best winter sun destination in easyJet's annual ranking, offering Brits a compelling mix of reliable heat, minimal rain, and remarkable value.
Why Cape Verde Topped the Charts
easyJet's Winter Sun Index assessed global destinations on key factors for UK travellers, including flight accessibility, winter temperatures, sunshine hours, rainfall, time difference, and on-the-ground costs. Sal island emerged victorious, outperforming all the Canary Islands. Its winning formula includes January temperatures soaring to a pleasant 24-25C, a stark contrast to the UK's average of 8C.
The archipelago, situated in the central Atlantic off the coast of Africa, is being hailed as 'the new Canaries' and even 'the Caribbean without the jet lag', thanks to its stunning white-sand beaches and a convenient time difference of just one hour behind the UK. The sea remains warm for swimming at 22-24C.
Sun, Savings, and Sandy Beaches
Holidaymakers can expect an impressive 10 hours of daily sunshine in winter, significantly more than Tenerife's six or seven. Rainfall is almost negligible at just 1-3mm, making it one of the driest options available. The affordability is a major draw, with easyJet estimating the average price of a pint at a very wallet-friendly £2.25, and a meal for two costing around £30-31.
For those looking to book, one-way flights to Sal start from £91.99. Package deals offer excellent value; for example, easyJet Holidays is currently promoting a week-long all-inclusive stay at the four-star Sol Dunas Family Fun resort, departing from Manchester on 13 January, for £737 per person. This deal includes meals, drinks, luggage, and transfers, with a £100 discount available using the code BIGSALE.
Exploring Beyond the Resort
The tourist hub of Santa Maria on Sal's southern coast is home to most major hotels and a variety of dining options. However, the island offers quieter alternatives like the tranquil beaches of Murdeira on the west coast. Adventurous travellers can also take a three-hour ferry to the neighbouring island of Boa Vista, known for the quaint town of Sal Rei, pristine beaches, and even turtle nesting sites.
With its combination of guaranteed sunshine, short flight time, minimal jet lag, and fantastic value, Cape Verde's Sal Island presents a powerful case for becoming the UK's favourite winter sun retreat for the 2025 season and beyond.
