Add thelocalreport.in As A Trusted Source
tourists fly spain In summer they number in the millions, but few people consider this part Mediterranean for one winter vacation.
destination in Caribbean, South America Or Asia could steal the spotlight when it comes to winter sunBut spainThe pleasant weather and absence of peak-season crowds make it a short-haul option for those in the know.
Temperatures hover around 20C at some points during winter in the southern provinces of the country. Perennial Andalusian favorites like Seville are still drenched in sunshine from December to March, with cooler temperatures offering opportunities for exploration without the threat of hot weather Ruining your plans.
Even on the East Coast, including destinations Valencia Provide opportunities for beach outings from christmas eve Until spring. Canary IslandsCan be famous for winter temperatures in the mid 20s spainis most revered winter sun destination, but read below for a selection of others.
Read more: Five of Spain’s most walkable cities (including one car-free city)
tenerife
Canary Islands Spain is the winter sun capital, and tenerife Is the most popular. As well as being a major summer destination, the island enjoys six hours of sunshine per day between December and February, with average temperatures around 18C during these months (average high around 22C).
Many of the island’s main attractions are its natural sites. It is home to Spain’s highest peak, Mount Teide, an active volcano that towers over the national park of the same name. While a cable car can take you to the top, there are plenty of hiking trails amid the red rock and rugged terrain.
If exploring doesn’t feel like it, don’t worry – the weather is still nice enough to spend the day at the beach, whether you’re looking for water sports in the coastal resorts of Costa Adige or exploring in the capital Santa Cruz before heading to Playa Teresitas.
where to stay
For kid-free luxury and relaxation, head to the west coast for Red Level at Gran Melia Palacio de Isora. This is a private section of the spacious Gran Meliá Palacio, and each room has a private terrace and views. There’s a pool, hot tub and plenty of peace.
Read more: Spanish island with sun and volcanic peaks
Valencia
Although Valencia is cooler than other destinations on this list, Valencia offers pleasant temperatures and plenty of sunshine during the winter months. It’s not unusual to see locals on the beach from December to February, although 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 are better suited to slightly cooler temperatures. Cycling the five or so miles of Turia Park is practically a rite of passage, and at the end of the route is the City of Arts and Sciences, one of Spain’s modern wonders and home to avant-garde buildings, lush gardens and Europe’s largest aquarium.
Whether you’re strolling around Ruzafa and Carmen or enjoying a few drinks al fresco on New Year’s Eve, the temperatures are never too hot and rarely too cold. Beach areas may be more suitable for a stroll along the promenade rather than an afternoon swim, but having lunch on the sand while your friends in Britain are shoveling snow from their driveways is extremely gratifying.
where to stay
Vinci Palace is one of the best located hotels in the city, right in the middle of the main squares and within easy walking distance of most of the sights. Inside, it’s a perfect blend of modern interiors and period style, from the building’s remaining period features to Art Deco touches in the bar area.
Read more: The best sunny winter holidays without jet lag
Seville
The Andalusian capital is famous for its year-round high temperatures, and while the average temperature of 36C in summer is enough to put off potential visitors, temperatures between 16 and 18C in winter are far more welcome.
entering a city Seville Offers an impressively deep range of culture, history and sights, from evening flamenco shows to cruises along the Guadalquivir River. many of highlighted – including the Old Town, the Cathedral, La Giralda Tower, the Moorish Alcazar and the Casa de Pilatos – are within easy walking distance of each other.
On a different day, make your way to María Luisa Park and Plaza de España, where you can enjoy a leisurely stroll and short boat trip on the canal before admiring the national pavilions built around the park, built for the 1929 Ibero-American Expo.
where to stay
Less than half a mile from Seville’s main attractions, the quaint Hotel Amadeus offers a comfortable stay near the historic centre. With a rooftop pool, casual outdoor and indoor dining areas, typical period features and plenty of musical touches – including three pianos and a 16th-century harp – this hotel makes for a special stay in the historic centre.
Read more: Best things to do in Seville
Nerja
A smaller alternative to Málaga, Nerja is located about 30 miles to the east, perched on a stretch of cliffs overlooking the Alboran Sea. The town begins on the banks of the Salón and Calhonda, rising steeply through a sea of white-washed, low-rise buildings and palm-tree-filled gardens.
There are plenty of independent shops, restaurants and plazas within the narrow, cobbled streets. Just above the beach is the Balcon de Europa, an impressive viewpoint offering sweeping views of the sea. One of the city’s most visited sites is its extensive network of caves, which stretch for more than three miles and are decorated with paintings dating back 40,000 years.
where to stay
Hotel Balkan de Europa is built into the middle of the cliff in one of the best areas of Nerja for visitors. The hotel offers comfortable, modern rooms, direct access to the beach and some of the best views of the city.
Read more: The best cities to visit in Spain – where else to stay
Lanzarote
While competing with Gran Canaria for the second Canary recommendation on this list, Lanzarote Comes on top because of its amazing natural sites and charming capital. Arrecife’s main city may be smaller than Las Palmas, but its downtown beaches, colonial architecture and vibrant nightlife make it a worthy competitor.
In Timanfaya National Park, the sea of red rock and volcanic soil appears almost otherworldly and a guided walking tour or bus tour is the only way to explore it. Along with the beaches and Hervideros cliffs, Gemões del Agua, an oasis-like landscape that includes a cave network and cultural center, is another must-see.
where to stay
The Secret Lanzarote Resort is a huge, 335-room complex with four outdoor pools, six restaurants and various sports facilities, as well as an extensive spa that offers everything from hairdressers to lava and aloe vera treatments.
Read more: The best beaches in Lanzarote
The colour red
Andalusia’s primary seaside destination is another great alternative to Seville for a dose of winter sunshine. Average highs reach 18C, and although the sea may be too cold for most people, the port and the city’s long stretch of coastline, including Malagueta and Caleta, are great places to walk, cycle or enjoy a leisurely lunch. The historic center demands an afternoon spent wandering its wide boulevards, narrow streets and churro cafes, while La Concepción Historical Botanical Garden and Gibralfaro Castle offer some of the best views.
Art lovers will enjoy the Thyssen Carmen Museum, which showcases 19th-century Spanish art, while Picasso’s birthplace also houses a spectacular museum containing more than 200 of his works (part of which is housed within the house where the famous artist was born). Alcazaba, from malaga The Alhambra, north of Granada, is an architectural highlight, where stone palaces with horseshoe arches surround gardens and courtyards planted with orange and palm trees.
where to stay
Only You Chen’s Málaga residence stands out partly because of its amazing eighth-floor terrace, which offers sweeping views of Gibralfaro Castle. Inside, a series of on-trend rooms are paired with charming public areas such as the Carmen Restaurant.
Read more: best hotels in tenerife