Top winter sun destinations for couples
February 8, 2021
We are all susceptible to dreaming of warm sunshine when the autumn nights draw in and temperatures begin to drop. For many, the winter signals the opportunity to fly to far flung corners of the globe and to explore new destinations in order to receive a much needed warm-weather injection!
For couples the reasons for choosing winter sun can be varied. A change of scene, to feel the warmth of the sun, or a chance to unwind and relax might be the priority. Take a look below to find out about some of our favourite winter sun escapes suited to couples.
La Residence, The Winelands, South Africa:
When the temperatures drop in the northern hemisphere the southern hemisphere is warming up and is a stunning option. With what seems like a flip of a switch, travellers can fast-forward through the seasons to spring or summer and enjoy the beautiful weather. South Africa is an incredible choice and very popular, especially over the Christmas and New Year period. There are direct flights to both Johannesburg and Cape Town from the UK. The time difference is only one to two hours meaning jet lag isn’t something to worry about and there’s so much to see and do. One of our favourite areas is The Winelands, with a Mediterranean feel, from December to March the temperature is approximately 20 degrees celsius in the daytime reaching highs of up to 30 degrees and there’s around 12 hours of sunshine to go with it!
Why it’s great for couples: La Residence is sophistication epitomised. In the picturesque Winelands area it is surrounded by fragrant olive groves, rolling hills and enticing vineyards. The rooms are chic, stylish and full of character and the dining is sublime. This is an award-winning hotel with an idyllic spa perfectly suited to adult guests and honeymooners.
What to do nearby: The hotel has tranquil and expansive grounds for guests to explore and there is a complimentary shuttle service to nearby Franschhoek which opens up a world of opportunities. Franschhoek is South Africa’s wine capital. It is a must to visit some of the vineyards and go wine tasting, not to mention trying the gastronomic options which are available. There’s a wine tram to make this all the easier, stopping at local vineyards. There are also a number of golf courses and some of South Africa’s best restaurants on the doorstep too.
What’s the weather like: beautifully Mediterranean, think the best of spring and summer in the UK.
Xanadu Villas, Zanzibar, Tanzania:
Is there a more enticing destination than Zanzibar? This unique island is a dream destination for many. It is the perfect balance between adventure, excitement and indulgence. This Indian Ocean island is the ideal spot for those in search of balmy warm temperatures during the winter. To get to Zanzibar guests fly into Dar es Salaam Airport and then take a connecting flight or ferry onwards. There is a total journey time of about 14 hours. The tropical weather and white sandy beaches are a worthwhile reward. Stone Town has plenty to see and do, however many visit Zanzibar to relax, snorkel in the clear waters and just unwind.
Why it’s great for couples: Zanzibar feels like paradise! The Xanadu Villas is one of the best hotels on the island and affords couples plenty of privacy and space to enjoy together. Set by a private beach, the eight villas are independent of one another and feel wonderfully secluded. The dining options are tailored to each guest’s preferences and there’s a lovely pool and bar area. There are spa treatments available and an on-site activity manager for couples who want to experience more of what the island and coastal areas have to offer.
What to do nearby: The beach is the main draw with its powder sand and clear warm waters. There are paddleboards, sea kayaks and snorkelling equipment for guests to use. Meanwhile excursions can be organised for the more adventurous such as spice tours, sunset cruises, Jozani Forest tours and Stone Town itineraries.
What’s the weather like: Ideal from mid-December to mid-March generally. Year round the average high temperatures rarely drop below 30 degrees celsius. December to March sees low rainfall levels, some of the warmest temperatures and often a welcome cooling breeze.
St. Lucia is one of the most popular destinations for British travellers over the winter months. With direct flights taking approximately nine hours, it is a wonderful island to visit for those in search of winter sun. The main season runs from December to April in the Caribbean, when the wet season has finished, the temperature is blissful and the days are full of sunshine. The island is full of beauty to experience, from the golden sand beaches lined with palm trees, to the mountainous interior with waterfalls and The Pitons. There are also some excellent scuba diving sites.
Why it’s great for couples: The Rendezvous is an amazing option for those who feel like they need to recharge their batteries. The hotel’s primary focus is on wellness and relaxation. It is a stay which is aimed at couples, with a relaxed ambience there is the option of private dining for two in a romantic setting. The all-inclusive package at this boutique hotel makes things as easy as possible and this is a couples only resort with a very adult feel.
What to do nearby: The Rendezvous would probably say – don’t! It is about reconnecting with yourselves and stopping still in time. Spend time as a couple in the resort, there are lots of choices from sunset cruises and champagne picnics to couples massage classes and date night. For those looking for more there are excursions which can be booked such as visiting the famous Pitons in St Lucia.
What’s the weather like: From mid-December to April the weather is idyllic. Temperatures in the daytime push up into the high 20s, there’s a refreshing cooling breeze often in the evenings, and the humidity and chance of rainfall is low.
Barbados is another Caribbean island that is perfect for a winter break. Alongside St. Lucia, it is a popular choice with British tourists. Barbados lays claim to some of the Caribbean’s best beaches alongside an air of sophistication. The cuisine is also exceptional, beautifully spiced dishes and fresh seafood are found in an abundance. There’s little rain from January through to May and this dry season provides lovely daytime temperatures that average 26-29 degrees celsius.
Why it’s great for couples: This all-inclusive wellness hotel is in a beachfront setting that shows off the best that the island has to offer. The hotel is split into two with an adult-only side meaning that couples can stay distinctly separate from families. The couples area is where the spa, whirlpool, serenity pool and yoga pavilion are found. The wellness aspects discreetly run through all areas of the holiday, from healthy smoothies and snacks to healthy dining options. There are of course indulgent dishes for those who might prefer these as well.
What to do nearby: In the Waves Hotel & Spa resort there’s sunset yoga and meditation sessions, spa treatments to book into and watersports to try. For those who want to discover some of Barbados, Apes Hill Golf Club is close by, and the capital of Bridgetown is just 15 minutes away and full of vibrant culture.
What’s the weather like: January to March are the driest months and warm and sunny, April and May begin to nudge into slightly wetter conditions with intermittent rainfall but still lovely temperatures and rainfall is relatively few and far between.
Is there a more dreamy destination than the Maldives? It is the picture of paradise with it’s crystal-clear lagoon waters, long stretches of private beaches and Indian Ocean charm. The overwater villas have to be seen to be believed and make for the ultimate luxury island escape. The weather is ideal for a winter sun break as the dry season runs from December to April and brings with it long sunny days, little chance of rainfall and clear waters for snorkelling and scuba diving. Direct flights take approximately 12 hours from the UK and the onward journey is always an experience, either by seaplane or speedboat to your preferred resort.
Why it’s great for couples: One of the Maldives dedicated adult-only resorts, the You&Me Maldives is for those ages 18 and over. Guests stay in private villas which ensures plenty of time can be spent together as a couple with privacy and seclusion. Whether that is in an overwater villa with a private swimming pool or a beachfront villa. With an incredible house reef and complimentary snorkelling equipment couples can choose to explore marine life together, relax on the beach or book in to the You&Me Spa. For an experience unlike any other why not make a reservation for a date at the H2O underwater restaurant with your loved one?
What to do nearby: Many will choose the Maldives as a destination to relax in the beautiful surroundings of a private island. In resort there is scuba diving, snorkelling, a choice of watersports, yoga, pilates and more to do. Excursions can also be booked including sunset fishing, sunset dolphin cruises, local island tours and romantic cruises.
What’s the weather like: Ideal for a winter break. Just as the shorter days are really settling in in the UK, we can’t see any reason not to book a break for much needed winter sun.
Are you looking to get away this winter or next with your loved one and spend some time enjoying warmer climates? If that’s the case and this has inspired you then do get in touch and one of our travel specialists would love to help you with this and ensure you have something booked to look forward to!
