Want to keep the sunshine after summer? 6 holiday destinations to visit this winter

As the final days of summer slowly slip through our fingers, many of us find ourselves clinging to warmer days and lighter evenings – not to mention a little more time to unwind.

The return to routine and the end-of-summer blues, therefore, can feel abrupt – especially if we haven’t taken enough time to rest and properly switch off.

And this is the case with many Brits as – despite rising levels of burnout, up to 15% over the past decade according to Vitality’s Britain’s Healthiest Workplace report [1]– more than half of UK employees don’t take all of their annual leave.

Whether that’s the demands of daily life or financial pressures, the opportunity to pause often slips away – and usually when we need it most.

But what if the summer didn’t have to end? What if you could stretch out the sunshine for a little longer?

From wellness retreats in the Maldives to the cycling trails of Majorca and the food markets of Marrakesh, we’ve rounded up six winter sun destinations that offer you a chance to reset, reconnect and keep the spirit of summer alive – even if it’s raining back home.

1. Morocco – for foodies

Average temperature 21ºC

If the winter blues strike, mood-boosting sunny days in Marrakesh are only a 3hr 40min flight away.

Vitality partner Expedia has seen an uptick in demand for riads, traditional houses with indoor garden courtyards and says global travellers are seeking out acclaimed hotel restaurants and grocery stores to find regional delicacies.

The good news is, many of the city’s hotels organise cooking classes and food market tours.

If you’re feeling adventurous, add a stargazing experience in the Sahara or a road trip to the surfer’s paradise of Taghazout.

2. Majorca – for cycling enthusiasts

Average temperature 14ºC

Sun worshippers adore this Balearic Island, but pro cyclists use its empty roads in winter as a training ground.

With demanding routes that snake through the Tramuntana mountains and around glistening coastlines and an easy cycle path that runs from Palma’s seafront, cycling is great for exploring the island whatever your fitness level.

Mild temperatures, on average around 14ºC, are ideal for cycling or ambling around the island’s idyllic towns.

And from late January, spring comes early and the island bursts into bloom.

3. Philippines – for scuba divers

Average temperature 30ºC

With more than 7,000 islands and crystal-clear waters, the Philippines is one of the best places in the world for scuba diving.

According to Professional Association of Diving Instructors, beginners should head to the Luzon region near Manila, where there are plentiful calm shallow waters for underwater photography and PADI certified training centres to take your first breaths underwater and learn new skills.

And with travellers “becoming increasingly conscious of their impact, looking for hotels that have eco-friendly practices in place without sacrificing comfort or style,” according to Vitality partner Mr & Mrs Smith.

Why not visit PADI’s website and select the ‘Eco Center’.

4. Malta – for jet setters

Average temperature 14ºC

Planning trips inspired by TV shows and movies is a big trend, with more than half of travellers saying they’ve researched or booked a destination after seeing them says Vitality partner Expedia [2] – big hits are Emily in Paris, And Just Like That… and The White Lotus.

So, could 2025 be the year Malta steps into the spotlight? Scenes for Gladiator II were filmed here.

Valletta, the capital city, with its Baroque architecture, offers city breaks with Instagram-worthy shots and stress-busting walking tours where you can try the island’s tastiest street food.

5. Maldives – for wellness seekers

Average temperature 28ºC

Imagine your fantasy desert-island paradise – powder-soft sands, rainbow reefs, lush tropical greenery and luxe villas atop an azure sea. Welcome to the Maldives.

These tropical islands in the Indian Ocean have long been popular with honeymooners.

But now, they’re the go-to destination for ‘reset jetters’ looking to recharge.

Many resorts offer an array of classes and personalised wellness menus to boost wellbeing – think aerial yoga, meditation, guided breathing, Balinese massage, sound healing, chakra rituals and Ayurvedic treatments.

6. Tenerife – for classical music fans

Average temperature 20ºC

It’s known for cheap and cheerful summer holidays, but in the winter months Tenerife plays host to the Canary Islands International Music Festival.

World-renowned orchestras, soloists and leading conductors descend on Santa Cruz, the island’s capital, for over five weeks of classical music.

Not a big fan? Balmy 20°C temperatures in January will be music to your ears.

So, get ready for lazy beach days, eating alfresco, dolphin watching, or enjoying the calm and silence of hiking through pine forests, sand dunes and volcanic landscapes.

[1] 10 Years of Britain's Healthiest Workplace: The changing face of the UK at work, 2025

[2] The Trends in Travel, Unpack 2025, Expedia

Related: 9 of the best UK solo retreats you won’t regret booking