Top European islands to visit this winter

Perhaps there is some time to enjoy a trip in winter. Especially when it comes to vacationing out of season with a favorable climate. Besides, you don't have to fly to the other side of the world to enjoy the summer atmosphere in the cold season. To know where to go, read below.

Madeira

Madeira is located in Portugal in the Atlantic Ocean off the northwestern coast of Africa. It is mostly dominated by a mild subtropical climate. In winter, the average temperature ranges from +16°C to +19°C.

Those who are not afraid of swimming in cool water are advised to go to Seixal Beach. It is famous for its black volcanic sand and picturesque mountains. The location is a great place for photo shoots.

Next, we recommend a trip to the capital. The city has an extremely low crime rate, so Funchal is considered one of the safest cities in the country. Visit the Jardim Monte Palace Madeira botanical garden, which has one of the largest collections of exotic plants from around the world.

Visit Santana too. The location is known for its triangular houses made of stone, reeds, and straw. There is also a theme park where you can learn more about the history and traditions of Portugal.

Cyprus

Cyprus is located in the east of the Mediterranean Sea. The island has a temperate and Mediterranean climate. From December to February, the average temperature ranges from +16°C to +18°C.

One of the most popular beach resorts is Ayia Napa. Although the water is not very favorable for swimming, we advise daredevils to go to Nissi Beach. The coast is characterized by light sand and a gentle slope. Active recreation enthusiasts can play volleyball, take part in foam parties and even dive off a cliff.

We recommend a trip to Paphos. It is home to a large necropolis dating back to the fourth century BC. It is said that the underground tombs became the burial place of aristocrats and high-ranking officials.

Also, be sure to visit Larnaca, where there is a unique salt lake. Birds come there to spend the winter, including pink flamingos and wild ducks.

El Hierro

The smallest of the seven main islands of the Canary Islands in Spain. It has a tropical trade wind climate. In winter, the average temperature ranges from +19°C to +20°C.

There are about 46 dive sites off the coast of El Hierro. That's why the center is considered one of the most attractive diving sites in Europe and the world.

We recommend going to the Mirador de la Peña observation deck. From here you can admire the El Golfo Valley. It is said that it was formed as a result of a large-scale landslide.

Also, you can climb Cape Orchilla, through which the zero meridian passed until 1884. Today there is a memorial sign reminding of its historical significance.

Azores

Located in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean. The archipelago consists of 9 mountainous volcanic islands. It is dominated by a subtropical and oceanic climate. In winter, the average temperature ranges from +16°C to +18°C.

Due to its rich marine biodiversity, the location is considered one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching. From April to October, you can meet up to 27 different species of these mammals. In winter, the destination becomes a place for a relaxing vacation without crowds of tourists in harmony with nature.

We recommend taking a trip to São Miguel. The town is famous for its green landscapes and majestic cliffs. First, go to the Lagoa do Fogo (Lake of Fire), which fills the extinct crater of the Água de Pau volcano.

Also, visit the Chá Gorreana tea plantation, the oldest in Europe. It has been operating since 1883. There is an official marked hiking trail here.

Crete

Crete is located in the Mediterranean Sea and is the largest island of Greece. It is located in two climatic zones - Mediterranean and North African. From December to February, the average temperature ranges from +15°C to +17°C.

We recommend going to the Samaria Gorge, one of the longest canyons in Europe. The hiking trail stretches for more than 16 kilometers. The route starts from the picturesque Omalos plateau at an altitude of 1,230 meters above sea level and ends in the coastal village of Agia Roumeli.

Although the weather is unlikely to be conducive to a long swim, we still recommend heading to the Balos Beach. From the west, the location is reliably protected by Cape Tigani, a majestic rocky mountain range. The local water shimmers with different shades, as the bay is located at the confluence of three seas.

On the paradise corner of Gramvousa you will find a fortress, which was built between 1579 and 1584.

Discover the other side of winter - bright, warm and full of positive emotions!

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