Romantic Destinations to Visit for Winter Sun from the UK

Winter doesn’t have to mean grey skies and cold hands. If you’re dreaming of warm sand under your feet while the rest of the world layers up, now’s the time to escape somewhere sunny. But the right setting isn’t just about sunshine, it’s about uninterrupted moments together in a stunning destination. 

The Canary Islands

If you’re looking for reliable warmth without the need for a long-haul flight, then Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote all provide easy-going winter escapes. For somewhere peaceful, avoid the busiest resorts and head to smaller villages like Garachico in Tenerife or Agaete in Gran Canaria. 

For something more adventurous, Lanzarote’s Timanfaya National Park is a surreal landscape of fire-red mountains and black lava fields. Unwind in La Geria, the island’s unique wine region, where local Malvasia wines are served in vineyard courtyards surrounded by ash-covered fields.

Marrakech

Winter in Marrakech is warm but comfortable, with daytime temperatures around 20°C, making it perfect for slow exploration.

Start your morning in Jardin Majorelle, where bright blue buildings contrast with lush greenery. Then, step inside the souks. There you’ll find stalls with handwoven rugs, brass lanterns and perfumes scented with amber and musk. 

For a truly romantic evening, book a stay in a traditional riad. Many have private terraces where dinner is served under the stars, accompanied by the gentle trickle of a courtyard fountain. If you want something even more special, take a short drive into the Agafay Desert, where luxury camps offer candlelit dinners among the dunes.

Cape Verde

If you’re looking for somewhere relaxed but full of character, Cape Verde holidays provide a mix of stunning beaches and vibrant culture. The islands sit off the West African coast, with temperatures hovering around 25°C in winter. It’s an ideal destination for lazy beach days and warm evenings spent enjoying local entertainment.

Sal is a favourite for its soft, golden beaches and turquoise waters. It is perfect for couples who want to switch off completely. But if you prefer somewhere with more local charm, head to São Vicente for live music or Santo Antão for the lush scenery. 

The Maldives

With overwater villas, clear lagoons and soft white sand, the Maldives is the kind of place where time slows down. In winter, the weather is near-perfect, with bright blue skies and warm, calm seas.

Mornings can be spent snorkelling straight from your villa, watching reef sharks and sea turtles glide past. After lunch, take a boat out to a secluded sandbank, where it’s just you, the ocean and a bottle of chilled wine. Evenings in the Maldives are made for dining under the stars.

The Caribbean

The Caribbean offers a classic winter sun escape, but each island brings something different. If you love lively beach bars and a fun atmosphere, Barbados is a great choice. You can spend the day on the west coast’s calm beaches before heading to Oistins for a fresh fish dinner.

For a quieter retreat, Saint Lucia’s rainforest-covered peaks and secluded coves provide the perfect setting. If you want to combine history with beach time, Puerto Rico blends Spanish colonial charm with golden coastlines. Wander through Old San Juan’s cobbled streets, visit a centuries-old fort, then take a short drive to a beach to watch the sunset.