Not cut out for the UK cold? Always clinging onto some warmth? We can do one better than just console you – with a wave of a wand this winter, you could be in one of these dreamy destinations. And the best bit? You won’t have to travel to far-flung shores to get your sunshine fix on a warm January holiday. Chapter 1 of 12 is looking golden…

Fuerteventura 

Average January temperature: 21°

Fuerteventura’s famed for its dreamy line-up of Caribbean-esque beaches, wonderful water sports and relaxed seaside resorts, so it’s set to impress on the R&R front. Come January, you can reap the benefits of the balmy Canarian climate. The locals enjoy windsurfing, so why not give it a whirl? You might prefer browsing diddy market stalls, dining on net-fresh seafood or pottering around the must-visit resorts of Corralejo and Jandia. 

Lanzarote

Average January temperature: 21°

Uniquely filled with volcanic landscapes that’ll make your jaw drop, Lanzarote’s quite something in the scenery stakes! Timanfaya National Park is an essential, and various César Manrique-designed artworks will draw your eye too. Bronzed bays, verdant vineyards and a whole lot of peace and quiet awaits. And with temperatures sitting in the low 20s, beach days are definitely on the cards.

Costa Blanca 

Average January temperature: 16°

On the Costa Blanca, you won’t just have buzzing Benidorm’s neon-lit English Square at your disposal. So-called ‘Tapas Alley’ is the tantalising place to be if you’re after authentic pintxos and finger-licking bites. Cycling routes are easier to conquer when the sun isn’t blazing, and the quieter Blue Flag sands are even more inviting. You can get a feel for the cosmopolitan in the city of Alicante too. Best of both worlds? We reckon so.  

Madeira 

Average January temperature: 18°

Madeira’s location, closer to Africa than Mainland Europe, means it enjoys a subtropical climate all year round. Step into a playground of leafy levadas and dense greenery, where banana and sugar plantations give a nod to the island’s past. Laze by a lido, explore the colourful thatched huts of Santana and pop into cute-as-they-come bakeries while you’re moseying about. Fabulous Funchal is a melting pot of trendy eateries and bars alongside fascinating museums and botanical gardens. 

The Algarve

Average January temperature: 16°

Crowd-free sights, cheaper accommodation and a mild climate make this southern slice of Portugal perfect for a January jolly. Don’t make the mistake of badging it as just a beach destination, there’s so much more to see and do. Take a hike through Ria Formosa Natural Park or explore authentic towns like Estói. Seasoned surfers will find some of the best waves at this time of year too.

Malta

Average January temperature: 15°

Gorgeous gardens, historical centres, the quirky Popeye Village... oh yeah, Malta has all sorts to delve into. It’s purse-pleasing too, though you can revel in a mix of low-key and top-end dining options. How about hopping aboard a boat trip to the Blue Lagoon or pottering around UNESCO-listed Valletta? Visiting in January means footprint-free beaches and all-to-yourself attractions.

Costa del Sol

Average January temperature: 15°

The Costa del Sol shines especially bright during winter. The region is generally a bit quieter, but it’s even better for playing golf in the still-warm rays or uncovering traditional villages. Torremolinos and Benalmadena remain winners for their variety of must-dos, although you’ll feel a pull towards charming Nerja. Senda Litoral is a coastal path that extends right along the region, so it’s ideal for walking off those croquetas calories.