Where to go in Europe for (almost) guaranteed winter sunshine

As the days turn colder, many Europeans will be searching for winter sun destinations. 

But even the most luxurious hotel can’t control the weather or guarantee sunshine for an entire holiday – or can it? 

One five-star resort in Cyprus is offering guests a complimentary future stay to those who visit this winter and don’t have a sunny day.

It sounds dreamy, but you’ll have to jump through quite a few hoops to get those free nights. 

If you’re desperate for some rays, here are three other destinations considered reliable options for finding warm temperatures off peak. 

Cyprus hotel offers free future stays if guests don’t get a sunny day

 Cyprus has long been hailed as the sunniest country in Europe, with up to 340 days of sun a year. So, it seems like a safe bet for those who want to soak up the sun all-year long.  

But just in case there’s an anomalous winter, five-star resort City of Dreams is giving guests a complimentary future stay for every day that’s not sunny.

  “There’s nothing worse than planning your holiday to escape the cold and having the weather turn when you arrive at your destination,” says Grant Johnson, Senior Vice President and Property General Manager. 

“We’re blessed with sun almost every day in Cyprus, but to put our guests’ minds at ease, we’ll invite them back (on us) if they don’t get sun while they’re here.” 

 With the offer, guests will be eligible for a one-night complimentary stay for every full day the resort doesn’t meet the ‘Sunshine Guarantee’ – which is defined as a day with at least 70 per cent direct sunlight between 9am and 5pm. 

The measurement of sunlight will be based on proprietary data from AccuWeather.com.

The complimentary stay must be redeemed within six months of the original stay date.

Where else can you get guaranteed winter sun in Europe? We’ve rounded up the best destinations to ward off the winter blues.

Visit Valletta for a history lesson under the sun

For an alternative winter sun break, try Valletta in Malta. It is the warmest winter capital in Europe, with average temperature highs of 17C. 

The Maltese city of sandy-hued palaces and stepped streets is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

ADVERTISEMENT

History buffs should seek out the legacy of the Knights of Malta, who built the city and its monumental walls in the 16th century, while foodies can indulge in rich savoury pastries known as ‘pastizz’. 

Soak up the sunshine in Sicily

Sicilians have frequently been known to take a dip in the sea on Christmas Day, and there’s no need for a wetsuit. 

With plenty of sunshine and average temperatures of 16C, the island’s culture-packed cities and coastal villages are prime winter destinations. 

Visit Ragusa for a confection of Baroque architecture or the seaside town of Cefalù for mesmerising mosaics. 

ADVERTISEMENT

Enjoy quiet beaches in the Balearics

Overtourism in the Balearic Islands – Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza and Formentera – has been sparking tensions and protests throughout the summer. 

If you want to visit the archipelago off eastern Spain, going in winter is the most sustainable option. 

You’ll find quieter attractions but pleasant temperatures hovering around 16C during the day. 

Mallorca is favoured for its sensational coastline and architectural delights in Palma, the capital city, while Menorca is for those looking for a low-key break and pine-fringed, emerald waters. 

ADVERTISEMENT

Ibiza and Formentera slow down in winter, but that means it’s the ideal time for exploring inland white-washed villages and taking peaceful nature hikes.