There’s nothing better than breaking up the winter months with a holiday. But do you escape the cold weather and head for warmer climes or embrace the season with an action-packed ski retreat?

We take a closer look at both types of trip to help you decide which to book next year.

Winter sun

Jetting away to somewhere with year-round sun is the perfect solution if the grey and wet weather is getting you down. And you don’t have to travel too far. Lanzarote and Tenerife both offer average highs of 19°C in January – their coldest month – while in Costa Blanca, temperatures reach up to 16°C on average – not as warm as the scorching summer months but certainly less chilly than back home.

You may not come back bronzed, but the weather should certainly be good enough for regular dips in the pool and lazing on the beach – just remember to pack a light cardigan or jacket for the evening.

With winter sun holidays becoming increasingly popular, many bars, restaurants and tourist attractions are open year-round and resorts still have a welcoming, lively feel to them.

Taking a winter sun break also gives you the opportunity to see a different side of popular holiday destinations. For example, Tenerife’s rugged hilltops are perfect for keen walkers, but it may be too hot to explore them properly at the height of summer. If you’re visiting Lanzarote in February/March, you’ll be able to enjoy the Carnival celebrations, which many consider second only to Rio’s.

Winter sports

Snow is a magical thing. And a winter sports holiday can give you the chance to really enjoy it as you slalom down the slopes against a stunning backdrop of powder-dusted mountains and pines.

Ski trips aren’t just about hitting the slopes, though. There’s a range of après ski activities on offer to enjoy, from husky dog rides and tobogganing to drinking hot chocolate by the log fire or soaking in a hot tub while breathing in the fresh mountain air.

Plump for a ski trip to the Alps and you’ll be able to indulge in some truly delicious food during your holiday too. Local delicacies include tartiflette in France, raclette in Switzerland and cheese fondue pretty much everywhere.

It’s worth bearing in mind that while ski holidays are a great experience and lots of fun, they can be quite tiring if you’re spending full days on the slope. It’s a good idea to try and build up your fitness before you travel and make sure you factor in some rest and relaxation time in the evenings, so you’re ready to hit the powder again the next day.

Which to pick?

While there isn’t really a wrong choice when it comes to picking a winter holiday, it’s worth thinking carefully about which type of trip you’ll get the most out of.

Are you normally frazzled and stressed after a hectic Christmas? If so, a week in the sun might do you the world of good. But if you find yourself craving some action in January and February, hit the slopes instead.

It’s also worth thinking about your holiday plans for the rest of the year. If you’re planning a busy city break in the spring, why not opt for a beach break? But if you already have your week in the sun booked for June or July, skiing offers a bit of variety.