As searches for ‘winter sun holiday destinations’ jump by more than 5,000% in the past month, travellers are increasingly looking for last minute escapes as the UK heads into the colder January period. The Canary Islands, particularly Tenerife, remain a firm favourite for guaranteed warmth, but there are still plenty of ways to go off the beaten path.
Influencer Kat Farmer recently touched down in Tenerife with Sovereign Luxury Travel, splitting her stay between the sleek coastal luxury of Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora in the south and the refined, old-world elegance of Hotel Botanico & Oriental Spa Garden in the north. Reflecting on her trip, Kat says the island offers “all the traditional charm and flair you would expect from Spain but may perhaps be surprised to find in the Canaries.”
With warm, sunny days, the island proved an unexpectedly perfect winter escape – even the sea was still inviting enough for a swim. She also revealed her packing routine for warm weather breaks, especially when the days are hot but the evenings call for a light layer.
Exploring the South of the Island – Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora
In the south of the island, Gran Meliá Palacio de Isora sets the standard for contemporary island luxury with a warm, family friendly feel. For guests seeking a quieter, adults only experience, upgrading to RedLevel provides the perfect escape.
From private check-in and a palm fringed pool to terraces with whirlpool bathtubs and a concierge who seems to anticipate your needs before you ask. Days drift by with access to the RedLevel Lounge, where complimentary breakfast, drinks and an elegant evening open bar create a quiet, elevated retreat.
As Kat describes it “A private area with its own reception and complimentary snacks and beverages (including a very agreeable Cava) available all day. Entertainment in the evening is on offer every night (I was beyond happy with the flamenco dancers and Spanish guitarists) and the a la carte breakfast served up an incredible fresh Spanish tortilla whilst I died and went to heaven with the pan con tomate and Iberico ham offering.”
Though she dined at the hotel for two nights, Kat noted that “there are a plethora of great local restaurants within a couple of minutes’ walk” for those staying longer.
Discovering the North – Hotel Botanico & Oriental Spa Garden
Just an hour’s transfer north, Kat found herself in an entirely different world at Hotel Botanico & Oriental Spa Garden, a property she describes as “the surprise of the break.” Nestled in the hills above Puerto de la Cruz, though still only a gentle 15 minute stroll down to the coast, it’s an oasis where Thai influenced architecture sits within a subtropical landscape.
In Kat’s words, “the two perfect words to describe this gem of a place are refined and elegant. Like walking into the luxury of old-school Hong Kong but with the most sublime Spanish hospitality.”
Puerto de la Cruz reveals a completely different side to Tenerife, with colourful Canarian architecture, black sand beaches and a maze of cobbled streets where locals relax over cortados.
For Kat, this authenticity became the defining memory of her trip: “For me, the highlight of the trip was discovering a traditional, unspoilt and genuinely Spanish part of Tenerife. Puerto de la Cruz offers a true taste of old school Spain that I personally adore – but with the luxury and comfort of a proper 5-star fabulous hotel.”
Tenerife proves itself an ideal winter sun escape, with temperatures ranging from 19-24°C from November to February time and far more cost effective than long haul alternatives, with a flight time of just over four hours, no time difference, and quick, efficient airport transfers. As Kat reflects, “Next up – I am definitely looking to discover more of the Canary Islands and the gems they undoubtedly have to offer.”
Kat’s Winter Sun Packing Hacks
When it comes to packing for a winter sun destination, Kat has mastered the art of travelling light without sacrificing style and she’s sharing her top hacks to help you do the same.
1. Pack Light Layers for Tenerife
Kat says Tenerife is reliably warm for a winter break. Even though evenings can feel a little cooler, she insists you can leave the puffer jacket at home, a light cardigan or jacket is all you’ll need.
2. Stick to a Carry-On
For a short winter-sun trip, Kat swears that a carry-on suitcase is more than enough. She recommends travelling in your heaviest layers – leggings, a longline knit, and an oversized cardigan that can double as an evening layer.
3. Choose Versatile, Lightweight Outfits
Inside her suitcase, Kat always packs light, easy-to-fold silk dresses that work over a bikini by day and with a cardigan in the evening. Her top tip is to bring lots of jewellery to transform daytime looks into evening outfits.
