Winter Sun Retreats: Luxurious Resorts To Rival Europe's Summer Counterparts

This week's glorious sunshine is teasing us to believe spring may finally be here! With a little luck, the UK is in for a sun-drenched summer! But if, like me, you love to plan ahead, now is the perfect time to be thinking about your winter sun escape to avoid paying over the odds later on.

Well known five-star luxury resorts in Europe are synonymous with beautiful family getaways during the warmer months, offering a flawless combination of breathtaking scenery, elegant accommodation, and an abundance of activities designed for all ages. Yet, as winter settles across much of Europe, I am frequently asked for recommendations for families looking for the same exceptional service, comfort and experiences, but swapping our grey skies for golden shores. The most sought-after resorts fill up quickly; booking early ensures you secure the best availability, flight options, and importantly, prices—so why wait, and read on.

The Canary Islands

• Flight time: 3 hours 30 minutes from London

• Best time to visit: Year-round

• Average winter temperature: 22°C

For those looking for a short-haul winter sun destination, the Canary Islands are an easy and reliable choice. With year-round warm temperatures, family-friendly beaches, and fantastic resorts, it’s an stress-free option that still delivers plenty of luxury if you know where to look. Located off the northwest coast of Morocco, the Canaries offer a combination of Spanish and Moroccan influences, with strikingly diverse landscapes. Whilst they were a victim of mass tourism in the 1990's, they’ve been working hard to shake off their outdated package-holiday reputation ever since. Whilst unfortunately, a lot of towns across the Canaries are not the prettiest, the islands should not be over looked as they have so much more to offer.

Each island offers something unique. Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria boast everything from dramatic volcanic terrain and dense pine forests to hidden rocky coves and vast sand dunes. With historic towns full to bursting with character, a calendar packed with vibrant festivals, and exceptional local food and wine, there’s never really a bad time to visit.

Where to stay

Bahia del Duque, Tenerife blends classic Canarian charm with modern luxury. The exceptional kids’ club, beachfront location, and outstanding service make it a fantastic choice for families seeking a mix of adventure and relaxation.

Lopesan Baobab Resort, Gran Canaria brings a slice of Africa to Gran Canaria, with its striking architecture, lush tropical gardens, and lagoon-like pools creating an exotic escape in the heart of Meloneras. This five-star resort is a dream for families, offering spacious rooms, a kids’ club, and thrilling water slides, all set against a backdrop of cascading waterfalls and swaying palms. While little ones are entertained, adults can unwind in the serene infinity pool or indulge in gourmet dining inspired by African and international flavours. Just a short stroll from the beach and Maspalomas Dunes, it’s the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and luxury.

Cyprus

• Flight time: Approximately 4 hours 30 minutes from London

• Best time to visit: Year-round, but especially March–June and September–November for ideal weather and fewer crowds

• Average winter temperature: 17°C

Cyprus is a sun-drenched gem in the Mediterranean, where ancient history, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality come together to create an unforgettable holiday destination. While the island boasts lively, and in some cases rather built-up resorts, the Akamas Peninsula is a true haven for those seeking unspoiled beauty and adventure. This protected nature reserve, with its rugged coastline, hidden coves, and lush gorges, is perfect for hiking, jeep safaris, and boat trips to the crystal-clear waters of the Blue Lagoon. Charming villages like Latchi and Polis offer an authentic slice of Cypriot life, where you can dine on just-caught seafood and sip locally produced wine.

Where to stay

Perched on the unspoiled Akamas Peninsula, Anassa Resort is Cyprus’s ultimate luxury hideaway, effortlessly combining five-star elegance with a laid-back Mediterranean vibe. With its whitewashed, village-style architecture cascading down towards the turquoise waters of Chrysochou Bay, the resort feels more like an exclusive coastal retreat than a hotel. Families will love the award-winning kids’ club and private villas, while couples can unwind in the world-class Thalassa Spa or  enjoy some exquisite Cypriot and Mediterranean cuisine.

Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman

• Flight time: 6 or 7 hours from London

• Best time to visit: November – April

• Average winter temperature: 24°C

Dubai’s year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and family-focused hospitality make it an ideal winter sun destination. While it's known for its skyscrapers and luxury shopping, there’s so much more to enjoy, from desert safaris and water parks to world-class aquariums and cultural treasures.

Just an hour’s drive from Dubai, Abu Dhabi is a fantastic family destination, offering the perfect mix of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Kids (and adults!) will love the thrills of Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld, while those looking for a more cultural experience must not miss the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (a breathtaking masterpiece with 82 domes, shimmering reflective pools, and one of the world’s largest chandeliers). Qasr Al Watan offers a fascinating glimpse into the UAE’s rich heritage, while the Louvre Abu Dhabi is filled with inspiring exhibits that bring art and history to life. When it’s time to unwind, families can relax on the beautiful beaches of Saadiyat Island or head into the desert for an unforgettable evening of dune-bashing and camel rides under the stars.

Less glitzy than Dubai but with stunning natural beauty, Oman is an ideal destination for families looking for a luxurious yet laid-back getaway. It offers a perfect balance of adventure, culture, and natural wonders. Families can experience the magic of the Wahiba Sands, where thrilling desert safaris and camel rides await. The tranquil beaches of Masirah Island are perfect for swimming and watersports. Kids will be captivated by the Al Hoota Cave, an incredible underground wonder, while the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque offers an awe-inspiring cultural experience.

For the ultimate blend of adventure and luxury, consider starting with a few nights at a stunning desert retreat such as Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Al Wathba, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa, or Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara. All offer immersive desert experiences under the Arabian skies. Afterwards, head into the city to explore Dubai or Abu Dhabi's vibrant urban attractions.

Where to stay

Where luxury and comfort meet, The Residence at One&Only Royal Mirage in Dubai is an exclusive family getaway in Dubai. This private enclave features spacious suites and villas, ideal for families seeking privacy and exceptional service. With a private pool and lush gardens, families can relax in peace while enjoying the resort's extensive facilities. The KidsOnly Club offers engaging activities for children aged 4-12, from arts and crafts to outdoor adventures. The resort’s pristine beach, family-friendly pools, and water sports ensure fun for all ages, while direct access to renowned restaurants provides a variety of dining options for the whole family.

JA The Resort Dubai, made up of JA Beach Hotel, Palm Tree Court, and Lake View, spans a vast million-acre beachfront in Jebel Ali. After recent renovations, it’s become a top choice for families. The resort is known for its peaceful, exotic atmosphere, with over 100 peacocks roaming the grounds. Families enjoy seven pools, an 800-metre beach, and the Pirates and Mermaids Kids’ Club, offering fun daily activities for kids aged 4-12. There’s also a creche for babies (from 4 months, for a fee). With a wide range of outdoor activities, from swimming with ponies to mini-golf, clay shooting, and wakesurfing, there's something for everyone. Guests can also choose from 25 restaurants and bars, catering to all tastes.

Between us, Im keeping an eye out for the latest hotel to launch from Jumeirah, the Marsa al Arab which looks phenomenal and is definitely on my list of must-visit hotels.

If you love the idea of an all-inclusive stay in Abu Dhabi, Rixos Premium Saadiyat Island is a dream. With its pristine private beach, huge family-friendly pools, and an incredible kids’ club, this resort makes holidaying with little ones effortless and offers the perfect beach retreat within easy reach of the city.

In Oman, Six Senses Zighy Bay is a true family paradise, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. Nestled in the dramatic mountains of Oman and fronted by a beautiful stretch of beach, the resort provides families with the ultimate escape. The spacious villas, some with private pools, offer plenty of room for families to unwind in comfort and privacy. Kids will love the Explorer’s Kids Club, where they can enjoy a variety of fun activities, from treasure hunts to nature walks, while parents can indulge in the resort’s world-class spa or take part in water sports like kayaking and sailing. For families looking for something truly extraordinary, there’s the option to arrive by paraglide, making for an unforgettable entrance.

The Maldives

• Flight time: 10 hours from London

• Best time to visit: December–April

• Average winter temperature: 28°C

There’s truly never a bad time to visit the Maldives. These picture-perfect islands, each home to just one incredible resort, are the ultimate paradise. While they’re often associated with honeymooners, many resorts cater beautifully to families, ensuring little ones have just as magical a time as the grown-ups. 

Where to stay

From the moment you arrive in Male and are whisked away to the stunning LUX lounge, you’ll feel the stress of travel melt away. Within 30 minutes, a seaplane transports you to paradise. At LUX South Ari Atoll (Forbes 5-Star Rated) overwater villas may be tempting, but for families, I highly (and personally) recommend a beachfront villa where children can safely run free on powder-soft sand. The resort’s all-inclusive plan is exceptional and extraordinarily generous, with gourmet dining, a fantastic kids’ club, and endless activities—from snorkelling with turtles and whale sharks to outdoor movie nights under the stars. What truly sets this resort apart, though, is the warmth of the staff, many of whom have been there since the hotel opened over a decade ago. Guests return year after year and it’s easy to see why.

Mauritius

• Flight time: 12 hours from London

• Best time to visit: September to December

• Average winter temperature: 28°C

What sets Mauritius apart from its Indian Ocean neighbours, is its vast size, striking natural and climatic diversity, and the opportunity for adventure. While it shares the same picture-perfect beaches, Mauritius also offers lush rainforests, towering mountains, vast sugar cane fields and secluded coves. Mauritius also boasts some of the most exquisite beach hotels in the world, along with charming smaller boutique properties right on the sand. The ideal time to visit is between September and December, when temperatures are warm (averaging 25-28ºC by day and a cooler 17-19ºC at night), and the skies are clear before the rainy season starts in January.

Where to stay

For those dreaming of waking up to turquoise waters and swaying palm trees, LUX Belle Mare is the perfect destination. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and a prime beachfront location, this resort is a family haven. Parents can indulge in a rejuvenating spa session while their little adventurers embark on treasure hunts, the kids club here is outstanding throughout the day and into the evening! Meanwhile evenings can be spent savouring world-class dining beneath the stars. I tried my hand at waterskiing (a complimentary offering) while we were there and loved it, there is no shortage of wonderful things to do here!

Shangri-La Le Touessrok in Mauritius offers the ultimate private island retreat for families, blending luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Set amidst crystal-clear waters and lush landscapes, the resort features two golf courses, a tranquil spa, and a sushi restaurant, providing a peaceful escape for adults.

Family-friendly amenities include a dedicated kids' club with activities like arts and crafts, water sports, and nature trails. For more adventure, families can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, paddleboarding, and explore the nearby Île aux Cerfs. Spacious family accommodations and a variety of dining options cater to all tastes, ensuring comfort and convenience for everyone.

One&Only Le Saint Géran is a family paradise offering luxury, adventure, and relaxation. Set on a private peninsula with pristine beaches, clear lagoons, and lush gardens, it’s an idyllic retreat. Recent refurbishments have created spacious family accommodations, many with direct access to the beach or private gardens.

The KidsOnly Club offers fun activities for kids aged 4-11, including arts and crafts, nature walks, and water sports, giving parents time to unwind. Active families can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, water skiing, and windsurfing, while younger children can enjoy beach games or cooking classes.

Caribbean: St Lucia & Antigua

• Flight time: 9 hours from London

• Best time to visit: December–April

• Average winter temperature: 27°C

For dreamy white-sand beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters, the Caribbean is a family paradise. While each island has its unique charm, St Lucia and Antigua stand out for their family-friendly resorts and activities.

Where to stay

If your idea of bliss is a private island with no cars, all-inclusive luxury, and endless activities for kids, Jumby Bay Island, Antigua is perfection. With gourmet dining, water sports, and a fantastic kids’ club, this resort takes family-friendly luxury to another level.

Nestled between the iconic Pitons, Sugar Beach, St Lucia is one of the Caribbean’s most breathtaking. Families will love the beachfront villas, kids’ activities, and the mix of adventure and relaxation.

South Africa: Cape Town

• Flight time: 11 hours 35 minutes from London

• Best time to visit: December–February

• Average winter temperature: 27°C

If you’re looking for winter sun with adventure, Cape Town and the Western Cape is a brilliant choice. Beyond its stunning beaches, you’ll find incredible wildlife, vineyard tours, and cultural experiences in a family-friendly setting. We took our children to the Western Cape when they were 2 years old and 10 months old respectively and we loved how accommodating the restaurants were for children, many properties had discreet playgrounds just within visual reach but without creating an eyesore on the stunning views. My list of personal recommendations from our trip is endless!

Where to stay

Perched between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa offers stunning scenery and exceptional service. With spacious family suites and plenty of activities nearby, it’s a fantastic base for exploring Cape Town’s wonders. Why not venture out to the Winelands and stay in a stunning boutique guest house in Franschhoek or Stellenbosch.

If these exceptional destinations have tickled your fancy, I would be delighted to help you plan your winter sun escape, hold flights and source the best rates on the market through my travel partners on your behalf.

Do get in touch, and together we can find the destination that suits you and your holiday budget and wish list perfectly.

Curious about how I work? Click here to learn more.