Gozo’s beach and basilica, Malta
After some gentle winter sun to warm your skin and soothe your soul? Take a trip to Gozo, an island with stunning coastal views just a short ferry ride from Malta. Walk along the beach to admire the Azure Window; Swim in pristine waters on secluded beaches and marvel at the neo-Romanesque architecture of the Basilica of the National Shrine of Our Lady of Ta’ Pinu. Spend the evening eating freshly caught fish with a glass of Maltese wine, which rivals its Mediterranean neighbors in terms of quality.
Laura B.
Oviedo and wild Asturias, Spain
Asturias in northern Spain had a cool and rainy December, which was perfect for us. We stayed in an affordable apartment in Oviedo’s old town, which was beautiful. The Museo de Bellas Artes and the Museo Arqueológico de Asturias were perfect, free and almost empty. Armed with umbrellas, we wandered through pedestrian streets, side streets and squares. sidrerias To taste local cider. We toured the Christmas market and followed the giant inflatable horses to see the Christmas lights come on. The city is surrounded by vibrant green hills and snow-capped mountains. We also visited the wild beaches of the rugged Costa Verde.
Mary
Lake Vouliagmeni, Athens
About 10 miles south of Athens is Vouliagmeni, an affluent suburb that juts out onto the coast. It is said that the lake, which is warmer than the sea at this time of the year due to the hot springs underneath, is healing. Perhaps more importantly, there are fewer people there in the winter than in the summer; This gives the experience a special, almost mystical feel. At this time of year, early morning or late afternoon is best. Nearby is Rumors, which serves perhaps the best coffee in town.
Lee Kelleher
Tips from Guardian Travel readers
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Pizzas and squares in Naples
Naples’ relative warmth makes it a suitable city for winter travelers looking to explore. The city takes on a gothic vibe, so put on your boots and wander the cobblestone streets of pizzeria and winding alleyways. The already atmospheric history of Pompeii comes even more alive on a gray winter’s day. In the summer months, the oppressive heat of a pizzeria can feel stifling; The comfort of entering a wood-burning oven and eating world-famous pizza in winter provides one of the most enjoyable experiences in Europe.
Natalie
Mallorca offers mountain and Mediterranean views
Relating to: Alternative guide to Mallorca – from the perspective of those who know it best
Yes, the resorts are like ghost towns, but the beaches are still there, the mountains are still there (walk the Ruta de Pedra en Sec, the Dry Stone Route), the Kodak memory villages are still there. Stroll along part of the eight-kilometer beach in Alcúdia. The views of the Mediterranean surrounded by mountains are the same as in July, without waiting for someone wearing an ill-fitting swimsuit to exit the shot. There are also great train connections. The town and harbor of Sóller shine in the sun. For all things Rafa Nadal, take the train that “serves” to Manacor. You can also take the train to Sa Pobla and enjoy the celebrations of Sant Antoni. Not to be missed in early January (usually on the 5th) are the Three Kings festivities all over the island. Probably the The day I will be there.
Anthony
Ski and sightseeing, Sofia, Bulgaria
For me, Sofia is the unsung jewel of Southern Europe, with its vibrant food scene and mountains just a stone’s throw from its centre. We took a day trip by bus to Borovets ski resort (from the south bus terminal, transferring at Samokov), which has great slopes and views of Serbia, for £50 including ski pass and equipment hire. We refueled when we got back to the city kebab shop and Bulgarian wine at the Skara bar. Don’t miss Made in Blue, a cafe serving creative small plates in a complex house, or, for more fun, Constantinoff RestoBar on grand Vitosha Boulevard.
Sam Aldersey-Williams
River adventures in Bosnia and Herzegovina
Rivers of Bosnia and Herzegovina in winter: First is Mostar; winding empty cobblestone streets, cozy restaurants serving grills and fresh bread, winter markets with mulled wine and the magnificent Neretva river cascading. We walked around with umbrellas in the December drizzle and learned about the painful recent history from our local tour guide. We then went to Trebinje, staying at the Hotel Studenac on the Trebišnjica river; a trout farm with a spa, a great restaurant, and rooms upstairs.
pip
The quiet beauty of Venice
Entering Venice as night fell, the vaporetto made its way towards the emerald-green Grand Canal. As a frequent visitor to the city, January in Venice is definitely the best time to understand why it has such a name. La Serenissima. No crowds, no queues, little noise. Sunset and fog make the city even more magical. Wrap yourself up warm, wander the quiet streets, and see how long it takes you to realize you haven’t heard a car in days. We stayed at Locanda Ca’ le Vele.
Katrina
Second city serenade, Porto
Relating to: Tales of two cities: twin city holidays to Lisbon and Porto
In the afternoons, the sun illuminates the terracotta roofs as we settle down for lunch. Francesinha, Porto’s doorstep sandwich. It is December, and we have escaped from Christmas preparations for a weekend in Portugal’s second city. As we explore, the sky is as blue as the azulejo tiles of São Bento station, we stop frequently for coffee and pasteis de nata. The evening is spent tasting local drinks in port houses. A short metro ride takes us to Matosinhos; Here, after watching the brave surfers fight the Atlantic waves, we follow the smell of barbecue to an al fresco lunch: grilled fresh fish and clear white wine. We stayed at Hotel NH Collection Porto Batalha.
Nicola
Winning tip: hiking in Cyprus
Walking in Cyprus in winter is great. Explore the Aphrodite and Adonis trails, among others, on the remote and beautiful Akamas peninsula. While hiking in the vast Troodos mountains, we enjoyed the scent of the pine forests in seclusion. The coastal roads from Pissouri are magical; Don’t miss visiting the wonderful Kourion archaeological site – a bargain at €5 – the cliffside views have to be seen to be believed. Finish with a trip to the amazing Chris blue beach restaurant on Episkopi beach.
katharine