Great hotels for European Winter Sun (2025)

Dreaming of some sunshine to brighten up your winter? Europe has a whole host of hotels in destinations with very pleasant temperatures at this time of year. From the gorgeous Canary Islands, Cyprus and Andalucia to magical Madeira and Malta, you're in for a treat — and some heat! Whether you're looking for a beachfront escape, a romantic retreat or an activity-filled getaway, the experts at The Hotel Guru have put together a hand-picked hot list to get you warmed up for your perfect place in the sun.

For beachside bliss

• Hotel Fariones in Lanzarote's Puerto del Carmen is the perfect choice for beach lovers. This luxury oasis set amidst palm trees boasts access to a sandy beach as well as a stunning infinity pool. Three restaurants, a stylish bar, outdoor hot tubs and gorgeous gardens complete the picture.
• Columbia Beach Resort in Cyprus is another beachfront delight whose rooms boast wonderful views either over the gardens or out to sea. There's an enormous 80m pool and a cool beach bar on the blue flag Pissouri Bay. Its award-winning Hebe Spa offers unique treatments, an indoor pool, hot tub, sauna and relaxation area. Bliss.
• If you prefer a quieter beach, then Cyprus's Azia Resort & Spa is a good choice. The hotel is set back a little from the main road linking Coral Bay to Paphos beside a coastal walkway. It offers no less than nine restaurants and a fabulous spa, plus windsurfing, waterskiing, yachting and jet skiing are just a 10-minute walk away.

For character and charm

• Hotel Emblematico San Marcos in Tenerife is a great pick if you fancy a hotel steeped in Canarian history. This 18th century property features bespoke interiors, antique beds and tasteful artwork — the charming piano room in particular exudes old world glamour. There's also a lovely roof terrace to catch some rays.
• Another hotel in the Canary Islands which oozes character is Finca Las Longueras in Gran Canaria. Delightfully rural but still close to the beach, this offers the best of both worlds. There are 10 traditional rooms, lush green gardens and a pretty outdoor pool with wonderful views.
• Located in the heart of historic Limassol, Sir Paul Hotel offers easy access to both the beach and the town's main attractions. The charming old building has been beautifully converted whilst retaining its original features, and has a leafy courtyard and chic bar for sipping a cocktail or two. Spend lazy days in the sun at nearby Akti Olympion beach.

For breathtaking views 

• The Phoenicia Hotel in Valletta is a Maltese gem with its Art Deco grandeur and stunning views. Expect marble floors, arched glass windows, a 1930s-style cocktail bar and even a ballroom. Book one of the rooms on a higher floor to look out to The Grand Harbour or the city walls, only a stone's throw away.
• For more magical Maltese views, Cugo Gran Macina Grand Harbour is a great pick. Featuring a rooftop terrace overlooking Valletta, a gorgeous pool and a soothing spa, it's the perfect spot to unwind in winter. Use a hotel bike to explore the area on two wheels or take a yoga class by the pool.
• Quinta da Bela Vista in Madeira's capital Funchal sits in beautiful gardens overlooking the sea. You can make the most of the weather here with a host of activities including tennis, swimming and watersports. Or you can chill on your private balcony and take in those gorgeous vistas.

For the activities

• Casa Velha do Palheiro in Funchal is the perfect pick for any keen golfers. This beautiful country house hotel and spa has its own championship course, plus there's an award-winning restaurant and indoor and outdoor pools. Sophisticated rooms and exquisite gardens seal the deal.
• If you want to do more than just laze in the sun, Casa de Hilario in Lanzarote is a well-placed pick. This beautifully restored 18th-century cottage sits just outside Yaiza Village and is ideally located for exploring secluded beaches, deep sea fishing or mountain biking. There are seven reasonably-priced rooms, a serene courtyard and a small pool.
• Nestled in Marbella's Golden Mile, Boho Club is the perfect base for fun in the sun. Cool off in one of two pools, pedal along the coast or into the hills with bikes available on-site, or hike up La Concha’s rugged trails for panoramic views. Two restaurants and a cocktail bar allow for some relaxation too.

For a romantic escape

• Cesar Lanzarote is the perfect pick for some grown-up fun in the Canary Islands sun. Surrounded by an imposing volcanic landscape, this chic adults-only hotel offers sea-view suites, private terraces and sunset lounges. Unwind in style here and enjoy Canarian cuisine with a 14-course tasting menu, celebrating local flavours in an intimate setting.
• For a home-from-home retreat on the coast of Málaga, Villa Elisa fits the bill. Offering secluded gardens, cosy nooks and nearby serene walks, it's the perfect hideaway escape. Enjoy its lush gardens and refreshing pool, or discover the beauty of Andalucia's nearby beaches and thrilling watersports.
• The Xara Palace in Mdina is a unique 17th-century Maltese palazzo that is ideal for couples looking for a romantic winter getaway in the sun. This characterful building offers a sense of tranquillity with its 17 gorgeous rooms boasting antique furniture and original paintings. Some duplex suites come with their own private terraces and hot tubs for added intimacy.

Still not sure?

• Refine your search to include our recommendations for 9 of the Best Beach Hotels in the Canary Islands or 10 of the Best Luxury Hotels in Malta.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.