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It’s still technically autumn, but it feels like winter across much of the UK – and escaping the shortening days and dreary weather suddenly feels like a very good idea.
Winter sun is surprisingly easy to reach, with the Canaries just a four-hour flight away and Morocco even less.
And temperatures are only heading in one direction in the coming months so now’s the perfect time to book a medicinal dose of sunshine.
Here, we’ve compiled our ultimate guide to the best warm weather sun resorts from November to March, from long-haul getaways to still-warm European destinations, with families, couples and singles in mind.
The Daily Mail travel team has trawled the best-value offerings, trending destinations and firm favourites to bring you a rundown of the 15 top choices you can make for some much-needed Vitamin D – at every price point.
Under £75 a night
PHILIPPINES
Mandarin Nest Boracay
In the Philippines’ Borocay Island, head to Mandarin Nest
First up is Boracay Island, a popular holiday hotspot in the Philippines.
The resort island is known for its powdery white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters and vibrant nightlife.
Located on White Beach, the Mandarin Nest Boracay is a four-star resort at a standout price.
It offers direct beachfront access, air-conditioning and balconies as well as a fitness centre and sun terrace.
ALICANTE
Tandem Portal De Elche
For a city break with balmy temperatures, stay at Tandem Portal De Elche in Alicante
With average highs around 16C (61F) to 17C (63F), it might not be the hottest winter-sun destination on the list, but Alicante is perfect for a quick city break.
Right in the heart of the city, Tandem Portal de Elche is the perfect starting point for exploring the city.
‘Beautiful apartments that are central to Alicante, a five-minute walk to the beach and lots of shops and restaurants around,’ one guest said of their stay.
ZANZIBAR
Treasures of Zanzibar House
In Zanzibar, one of the best destinations at this time of year, head to Treasures of Zanzibar House
Boutique hotel Treasures of Zanzibar House is a serene refuge in the heart of Stone Town, Zanzibar City, Tanzania.
It’s one of the best budget-friendly hotels in the area, and is close to attractions such as Hamamni Persian Baths and the Old Fort
Guests rave about the location, as well as the service and rooftop – one wrote: ‘Breakfast on the rooftop was more than delicious.’
SRI LANKA
Mount Lavinia Hotel
The Mount Lavinia Hotel in Sri Lanka is ideal for a dose of winter sun
South of central Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital, you’ll find the peaceful suburb of Mount Lavinia – and the crown jewel is the Mount Lavinia Hotel.
It was built in the early 1800s as a residence of Sir Thomas Maitland, a British governor of Ceylon, as Sri Lanka was known during colonial days.
Expect neo-classical architecture, smart gardens and an abundance of restaurants and bars nearby, as well as an on-site spa.
Under £100 a night
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Takuma Boutik Hotel
For a budget-friendly stay in the Dominican Republic, go to Takuma Boutik Hotel
The Dominican Republic is a stellar choice at this time of year, with fabulous all-inclusive resorts and national parks to explore, such as the Three Eyes National Park.
But you can also bag a budget break here – the three-star Takuma Boutik Hotel offers getaways for under £100 a night.
It’s a tiny boutique hotel with just seven rooms, a swimming pool and a fabulous beachfront location.
SOUTH AFRICA
Grande Kloof Boutique Hotel
Grande Kloof Boutique Hotel is one of the best options in Cape Town
In Cape Town’s exclusive Fresnaye neighbourhood, you’ll find Grande Kloof Boutique Hotel, one of the best value-for-money options in the upmarket area.
The four-star property has a tranquil garden setting, with hotels and apartments to choose from. A swimming pool is on hand too, as well as a typically South African ‘braai’ (barbecue) area.
Under £150 a night
CANARY ISLANDS
Parador de Cruz de Tejeda, Gran Canaria
Exquisite views are on the cards at Parador de Cruz de Tejeda on Gran Canaria
The Parador de Cruz de Tejeda is set high in the mountains of the island, providing stunning views – even from the hydrothermal swimming pool.
Set at an altitude of 1,500m, you can admire the mountains and the volcanic Caldera of Tejeda from your room.
The landscapes of this part of Gran Canaria are perfect for hikers and climbers, although there are also short and easy trails for those less experienced, the hotel advises.
SHARM EL-SHEIKH
SUNRISE Arabian Beach Resort
For a classic resort getaway, try the SUNRISE Arabian Beach Resort
SUNRISE Arabian Beach Resort blends the family-friendly with the luxury, overlooking the popular Tiran Island.
Fancy an upgrade? The hotel offers an exclusive ‘resort-within-a-resort’ tier offering upgraded suites (including swim-up and presidential options), private VIP check-in, and personalised concierge services.
One guest commented: ‘Perfect for family vacations, very well priced, clean and most importantly all the staff are extremely nice.’
THAILAND
Kalima Resort and Villas Khao Lak
Khao Lak in Thailand offers a slice of paradise during the cooler months
Design-led Kalima Resort and Villas Khao Lak is nestled between a sleepy beach, river and forested hills of southern Thailand.
It is inspired by the area’s tin-mining heritage, blending rustic textures with modern amenities.
Enjoy the lagoon-style pool, spa, sunset views and nature surrounding you.
Under £250 a night
CAPE VERDE
Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort
Hilton Cabo Verde Sal Resort is a popular choice in Cape Verde
Contemporary and chic, The Hilton Cabo Verde Sol is a great choice in up-and-coming holiday destination Cape Verde.
It’s well placed on Santa Maria Beach, close to central Santa Maria and restaurants by the pier.
Day trips to Viveiro Botanical Garden and the Buracona Lagoon are within 30 minutes, but on-site you can enjoy the spa, watersports centre and hotel casino.
MEXICO
TRS Coral Hotel, Cancun
Mexico is a top choice at this time of year – stay at TRS Coral Hotel
For an adults-only getaway, try TRS Coral Hotel, a five-star retreat in Costa Mujeres (Cancún), with butler service.
You’ll get access to more than 30 international restaurants and bars, as well as live music, exclusive events and one free hour per day at the resort’s renowned Rafa Nadal Tennis Center.
It is located 30 minutes from Cancún International Airport and 25 minutes from Playa del Carmen.
BALI
Desa Potato Head
Bali’s modern Desa Potato Head is a chic, luxury getaway
Desa Potato Head might sound childish as a hotel name – but this establishment in south-west Bali is anything but that.
With 88 luxury suites, 137 studio rooms, guest-only beachfront pool, rooftop yoga deck, spa and six places to dine, it’s kitted out for any luxurious, wellness-focused stay.
It features cutting-edge design and a vibrant creative community, home also to the famous Potato Head Beach Club.
MOROCCO
Le Jardin des Douars
Stay at Le Jardin des Douars in Essaouira, Morocco
A Morocco break as it should be done: located in the hills of beach town Essaouira, the Jardin des Douars is a boutique hotel that truly blends into the landscape.
With orange stone buildings, lush greenery and a real ‘hidden gem’ feel, you’ll avoid the tourist traps of Marrakech here and enjoy a stay that draws upon authentic Moroccan style, design and hospitality.
Hammam, massages, body treatments and rituals inspired by Moroccan traditions are also available to enhance your time away.
Under £500 a night
RWANDA
LUX* LAKE KIVU
Try the newly opened LUX* Lake Kivu for a unique Rwanda break
Award-winning global luxury hospitality brand The Lux Collective made its debut in Rwanda with the launch of LUX* Lake Kivu this summer.
Overlooking one of Africa’s Great Lakes, the hotel is framed by panoramic lake and hillside views, while its suites and private villa provide calm restorative spaces to reconnect with nature.
Known as a premier birdwatching haven, guests can explore Lake Kivu through curated water experiences, wellness rituals and locally inspired dining, while discovering Rwanda beyond the property with adventures such as a guided dawn hike to Napoleon Island to see fruit bats.
HAWAII
The Kahala Hotel and Resort
Hawaii’s a classic holiday hotspot – try The Kahala Hotel and Resort
Hawaii’s Hanauma Bay, nestled on the southeastern shore of Oahu, has some of the state’s calmest waters, most pristine beaches and world-renowned snorkelling.
The picturesque nature reserve is filled with clear, turquoise water and coral reefs that teem with colourful fish.
Opt for a stay at The Kahala Hotel and Resort, a luxury oceanfront retreat in the exclusive enclave.
MALDIVES
Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives
Topping off the winter sun list is Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives
When you think of the Maldives, private island resorts will, naturally, spring to mind – and Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives is one of the top picks.
With a ring of over-water villas, the resort is located in a tropical reef, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Stylish villas, beach lofts and bungalows will house you – while for food you can choose from two restaurants, two bars and an inviting lounge.
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