With no sun in sight and freezing conditions set to sweep across the UK this week, families are chasing affordable sunshine abroad this winter for some much-needed vitamin D.
A new ‘Holiday Hotlist’ index has been published that factors in criteria such as typical winter temperature, hours of sunshine per day, time difference with UK and average price of a meal out for four to pinpoint the best spots for winter sun.
Top of the pile, a Red Sea resort known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine sand beaches, and vivid coral reefs primed for scuba-diving. Sharm El Sheikh in Egypt sits perfectly between the Sinai desert and the Red Sea coast, offering a peaceful sun trap this half term. With reliable hot temperatures averaging between 24C and 26C and less than 1mm of precipitation during the off-season months, this resort poses the ideal choice for a mid-term recharge.
Offering 10 hours of sunlight, travellers can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Saint Catherine’s Monastery or book a guided camel trek across the Sinai desert.
Reachable directly from nine UK airports via easyJet routes Egypt could double up as an unlikely WFH (Work from Holiday) destination, just two hours ahead of the UK – perfect for those who feel tied to the school holiday schedule but are looking to get away this winter.
A close runner up, also known for its Red Sea coastline and crystal-clear waters, is Hurghada. Located on the east coast of Egypt, this resort destination has earned a well-deserved second place spot on the hotlist, thanks to its year-round sunshine, vibrant coral reefs and Saharan landscapes primed for family friendly excursions such as quad biking or Jeep safari.
With typical winter temperatures that range between 21C and 25C, this gilded retreat offers up everything that can be expected when desert meets sea. A necessary respite from the humble grey tones of the UK at this time of year.
The Canary Islands remain steadfast in their reliability in delivering winter warmth, picking up third and fourth place for Gran Canaria and Lanzarote. Both spots offer volcanic vistas and lively resort activity – the former replete with golden beaches, the latter etched with unique black sands- as well as unbelievable value hospitality, where you’re able to find a pint for just £3.
Djerba, which sits just off Tunisia’s southern coast, also ranks well in the hotlist for a winter getaway thanks to its white sandy beaches and towering palm trees. The island blends Mediterranean coastline and Saharan influences, rich cultural heritage and a maze of artisanal market stalls. With winter highs of 16-18C, this island is perfect for those looking for culture as well as warm climes.
For those seeking more city and less sea this February, Seville – the warmest city in continental Europe all year round – also scores highly. Renowned for its elegant Moorish architecture, this charming southern Spanish city will bowl you over offering the chance to explore its regal quarters and flamenco recitals. With generous temperatures of 22C, being followed around the plazas by the sun’s golden glow is practically guaranteed, inviting you to eventually settle for a family meal for four at £45 .
Kevin Doyle, easyJet’s UK country manager, said:
“With many of us ready for a break from grey skies, damp days and chilly temperatures, now is the perfect time to book an escape to warmer climes. easyJet’s unrivalled network for flights and package holidays, offers a fantastic range of family-friendly winter sun destinations across Europe and beyond, from Sub-Saharan islands to Spanish peninsula cities that are all easily accessible and affordable, for those looking to chase the sun on a budget and with ease during the long winter months.”
As the largest UK airline flying 50 million passengers to and from the UK a year on over 640 routes to more than 140 destinations across 35 countries, easyJet is making it even easier for travellers to discover some of the best winter sun resorts this year.
easyJet Holidays has a huge range of beach packages to Europe’s most loved destinations, with packages including flights, hotel, with 23kg luggage and transfers on beach holidays, all covered by its Ultimate Flexibility, offering freedom to change a booking, a refund guarantee, and best price guarantee.