Soak up some winter rays at these 10 destinations offering glorious blue skies and sunshine when things are grey and miserable here. From the hottest spots in Europe to long-haul tropical locations, here's some inspiration for your next big dose of vitamin D.
Ermita del Carmen
Carcabuey - Cordoba
Sleeps 8
You don't have to travel far to find winter sun, Andalusia in southern Spain is one of the best spots in Europe for winter warmth, enjoying very respectable mid-20s temperatures while the rest of us shiver. And you can make the most of them from the pool at Ermita del Carmen, a luxurious, fully refurbished 15th Century chapel surrounded by a nature reserve.
Casa Volcan
Tabayesco - Lanzarote
Sleeps 13
Stunning views, a quiet location, a swimming pool and the sea within strolling distance? This Lanzarote villa has it all - plus a perfect location for winter warmth. The Canary Islands are famous for their blue skies, sunshine and toasty temperatures, so you can come back from your Christmas holidays with a nice tan.
Fonte Do Mar
Madeira - Portugal
Sleeps 10
Get your winter dose of vitamin D on the island of Madeira, nicknamed 'the isle of eternal spring'. Located close to the Canaries it has sub tropical temperatures all year round. Soak up the sensational Atlantic views from this modern villa, located in the best part of the island's capital. There’s a magnificent pool and terrace and a stunning interior.
The Point Luxury Villa
Tamarindo - Guanacaste
Sleeps 17
Winter in Costa Rica is just as hot as summer, it's warm and wonderful all year round. And where better to enjoy it than this breathtaking luxury villa with six private balconies, an infinity pool and panoramic views of the Pacific in Playa Langosta.
Cape Kata
Kata - Phuket
Sleeps 8
Thailand makes the perfect long-haul winter holiday destination, not only is it the driest time of year, it's also the hottest, with up to nine hours of sunshine a day. Stay at this stunning and spacious villa, surrounded by the Andaman Sea with huge ocean views and plenty of wow, located on Phuket's famous tropical West Coast, right on the headland between the island's two best beaches.
Arhimser Villa
Kahandamodara Ranna - Tangalle
Sleeps 8
Winter is high season in Sri Lanka, with the best of the weather in the south and west of the island. Find your spot on the beach under the shade of a palm tree outside this luxury seafront villa on the south coast, offering picture perfect views of palm-fringed golden sands and the glistening turquoise sea.
Sandcastle Luxury Villa
Wesley - Eastern Cape
Sleeps 12
Winter in South Africa offers sunshine, blue skies and warm temperatures. And as an added bonus almost no jet lag, despite the 12 hour flight. Indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Sandcastle Luxury Villa, offering up beautiful views of the Eastern Cape in a family-centric, sociable property.
Amilla Fushi
Amilla Fushi - Maldives
Sleeps 2-4
You'll soon forget grey skies and cold ever existed, with the white sugar sand, blue skies, crystal clear warm oceans and hours of sunshine of the Maldives. Experience the serene glamour of Amilla Fushi, the Maldives island resort where relaxation is an art.