7 Winter Sun Destinations from Ireland
Are the dark mornings and evenings getting to you? It’s not uncommon to feel a little blue over the colder months.
A mid-winter sun holiday might be just the thing to put a pep back in your step.
If travelling long haul to the sun of the southern hemisphere is out of the question financially or time wise, there are many options closer to Ireland to choose from.
Top up your vitamin D levels in any of these winter sun destinations only one direct flight from Dublin:
1. Cyprus
Located in the eastern Mediterranean this island is famed for beautiful weather, ancient ruins and delicious food. It is also surrounded by long stretches of sandy beaches. If you want more than a beach holiday when getting some winter sun, this could be the destination for you. The island is filled with stunning Greco-Roman ruins from its ancient past. If Paphos is your base, don’t miss the archaeological site and Unesco World Heritage Site; the Tombs of the Kings.
Who flies there: Ryanair.com
Winter temperature: January – February 17-18 degrees during the day, cooler at night
2. Ibiza
Known as a party destination in the summer months, the island of Ibiza is a much more relaxed place come winter. There are plenty of activities that happen all year round on the sunny island including walking and cycling tours, markets and museums and horseriding or diving if you are looking for a more active holiday.
Who flies there: Ryanair.com
Winter temperature: January – February 15 degrees during the day, cooler at night
3. Malta
This winter sun destination may particularly appeal if you are a Game of Thrones fan as many of the early series were filmed on location here. Away from the small screen, Malta is a place with a fascinating past, ruled by the Normans, the Sovereign Military Order of St. John of Jerusalem, the French (briefly) and the British this small island also played a crucial role during the second world war. Malta is an island filled with stunning architecture, walled cities and beautiful beaches and lagoons. In January each year an International Baroque Festival takes place in Valetta’s beautiful opera house, a must do for fans of classical music.
How to get there? Ryanair.com
Winter temperatures: January – February 16 degrees during the day.
Malta, Mediterranean island
4. Sicily
A place that is often too hot for many Irish people at peak season, Sicily is the perfect location for some winter sun from Ireland. The narrow, winding streets so synonymous with Italy will be refreshingly free of other tourists and if your interests are more cultural, most of the museums and historical sites will still be open. If you are a foodie, you can also take advantage of some of the culinary experiences rarely available to visitor’s later in the year like February’s delicious sea urchins.
How to get there? Ryanair.com
Winter temperature: 14 degrees
5. Crete
If you are looking for a relaxed location with great food and beautiful scenery, then Crete may be the winter sun destination for you. The old towns of Chania and Rethymnon show Crete’s past through a combination of Venetian and Turkish architecture. If you are interested in finding out more, there are walking tours in most of the larger towns. For a more active holiday outdoor activities from horse riding to windsurfing should be available for most of the year.
Getting there? Ryanair.com
Winter Temperature: 15 degrees during the day
Voulisma Beach, Agios Nikolaos, Greece
6. Mallorca
A popular summer destination for Irish holidaymakers for many years, this Spanish island is a lovely place to catch some winter sun. Easy to get to and with enough to do while you are topping up your vitamin D, it is worth considering if you enjoy bagging a bargain while on holidays. The island is a shopper’s paradise with everything from designer shops to local markets available to you. Away from shopping the island is also popular with those who enjoy outdoor sports like walking, cycling and sailing.
How to get there? Ryanair.com
Winter temperatures? 15 degrees during the day
7. The Algarve
The southern Portugese coast line has stunning sand beaches, perfect for winter sun walks or surfing. As well as many cultural attractions and large towns to get to know, this part of Portugal is renowned for its majestic golf courses, particularly around Vilamoura and Albufeira. If you want to bring your clubs, this is the destination for you.
How to get there? Aer Lingus
Winter temperatures: 16 degrees
Don’t forget to protect yourself against the unexpected with travel insurance while you are getting some muchneeded winter sun. If you think you may travel again in the summer, a multi-trip travel insurance might work best for you. Get a quote today!