The February holidays are getting closer and with them come travel ideas. Because yes, we can't stand the cold, the rain, the grayness and even the neige?! We want sunshine, heat and temperatures that remind us of Spring. But we also don't have the budget or time to take a trip to the sun - white sand and coconut trees - on the other side of the Atlantic.
You don't have to travel an ocean (or fly 10 hours) to feel the warmth of the sun on your face. In Europe, at this time of year, it is possible to find destinations where spring is ahead of France?!
Algarve - Portugal
Algarve is a region in southern Portugal, famous for its cliff-fringed beaches. The old fishing villages dating back to the 1960s have now given way to villas and other luxury hotels. The coast between Faro and Lagos is now dedicated to tourists with multiple bars and restaurants. However, everyone will find what they are looking for: hiking, idleness, fiesta..
But in winter, tourists desert the region and you can enjoy attractive prices, even with a view on mer?! In February, the weather is mild - about 17°C and there is little rainfall.
©wonderlust.algarve
Tenerife - Spain
Tenerife is the largest island in the Spanish Canary Islands, located off the west coast of Africa. You can visit Mount Teide, the highest peak in Spain, which is nothing more than a sleeping volcano.
From November to January, the temperature is more than mild with 20°C?! Enough to enjoy the beaches and perfect your tan in the sun while Northern Europe is under the neige?! Take the opportunity to admire whales and dolphins on the southwest coast of the island.
Madeira - Portugal
Madeira is an archipelago of 4 islands off the northwest coast of Africa. Its subtropical climate is neither too hot nor too cold, with an average of 17°C in February. Its main island is volcanic, but green with large cliffs, cobble beaches and villages on the deltas of the Faja River. You can anchor in the capital's port, Funchal, in the heart of a magnificent bay surrounded by the sea and forest and located only 15 minutes from the city centre by foot.
Whether it is to rest, admire the dolphins or hike, with family, friends or lovers, Madeira is the ideal destination.
Valletta - Malta
Valletta is the tiny capital of the island of Malta, an island nation in the Mediterranean. This fortified city is known for its cultural activities: museums, palaces and churches.
And with a temperature that is around 16 degrees in winter and not below 14, trade your sweaters and gloves for a pair of sunglasses and an chapeau?!
Cyprus is an island located in the Mediterranean Sea and divided in two. The South is occupied by the Republic of Cyprus, while the North is under the Turkish flag. The island is known for its beaches, its lands, its vineyards, but also its archaeological sites.
Cyprus is an island located in the Mediterranean Sea and divided in two. The South is occupied by the Republic of Cyprus, while the North is under the Turkish flag. The island is known for its beaches, its lands, its vineyards, but also its archaeological sites.
Among the most beautiful beaches, we will find "Pissouri", "Santa Barbara" or "Vrysoudia", all under the blue flag label. Cyprus is also a real paradise for sailing and water sports.
Lanzarote - Spain
Lanzarote is an island in the Canary Islands, located off the African coast, and renowned for its warm weather all year round. Known for its beaches and volcanoes, it is home to the famous Timanfaya National Park, born in 1730, from the incessant volcanic eruptions. On the east coast, the seaside resort is Puerta Carmen, famous for its whitewashed villas, beaches and diving centres.
With more than 2500 hours of sunshine per year, a record in Europe, the winter temperature does not fall below 14°C and can reach up to 20°C.
Malaga - Spain
Malaga is a port city on the Costa del Sol in southern Spain. It is famous for its seaside resorts and yellow sandy beaches. Do not hesitate to visit the city to admire the city's 2 massive citadels, the Alcazaba and the ruined castle of Gibralfaro, remnants of the Moorish kingdom.
In winter, you will enjoy at least 5 hours of sunshine per day (compared to 1 hour in London in December) and a temperature of 17 °C?!
Crete - Greece
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands with a wide variety of landscapes, from fine sandy beaches like Elafonisi to mountainous reliefs like those of the White Mountains. It is also the island on which Zeus - the king of Gods - was born according to mythology.
But Crete is also a place of gastronomy with vines, olive oil, fish and légumes?! And here too, winter is guaranteed 5 hours of sunshine and 17 °C at moyenne?!
