If you don’t want to travel far for winter sun, then the Spanish archipelago of Canary Islands is an ideal choice. Situated off the west coast of Africa in the Atlantic Ocean there are ten islands, although just six are well know; Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma and La Gomera.

The average winter temperature in the Canaries is 20 degrees centigrade, with the south coastal areas being particularly warm during the winter especially in the south of each island. There are usually lots of cheap package holidays to the Canary Islands flying from the length and breadth of the UK (Gatwick to Glasgow). Charter flights are run by the numerous package companies, and there are also great bargains to be had with low cost carriers.

In little over four hours you can be in Tenerife, flying into either Tenerife South (Reina Sofia) airport or Los Rodeos Tenerife North. Enjoy the freedom to explore the island with a hire car allowing you the flexibility to travel where you want, when you want to! Tenerife’s Mount Teide or El Teide is Spain’s highest peak; a currently dormant volcano with staggering views on a clear day. Visit the island’s capital of Santa Cruz in the north with its endless tapas bars, cafes and restaurants, and during the winter, stay in Playa de las Americas in the south, a party hot spot during the summer but still a great place for dining and having fun, during the winter.

Closest to the African coast is Lanzarote, with a climate that is drier and hotter than the other Canary Islands due to its location and the fact that it is relatively flat. Lanzarote is also ideal for a whole host of watersports including kitesurfing and windsurfing.

Stay in the south of Gran Canaria for the best winter weather on the island as winter weather in the north can be wetter. Some of the best beaches are located here with the extensive dunes of Maspalomas being a “must visit”.

Fuerteventura’s weather is quite similar to Lanzarote although the winter weather does not vary as much throughout the island (north or south etc). Another great location for wind surfing based water sport activities!