As Britain endures drizzly days and chilly morning commutes, the longing for a sunny escape intensifies for millions. With more than five million British holidaymakers poised to book their summer holidays this very month, Spain consistently emerges as the top choice. While the peak months of July and August remain the most popular for getaways, the wait until summer can feel interminable. For those seeking to inject some immediate warmth and vibrancy into the grey winter, an enticing Spanish gem offers a perfect solution with remarkably affordable flights.
The Allure of Tenerife's Eternal Spring
Tenerife, the largest of Spain's Canary Islands, is celebrated for its year-round 'Eternal Spring' climate. This makes it one of Europe's premier destinations for winter sun, with average daytime temperatures in February hovering around a pleasant 20°C. The island's appeal is further heightened this month as it prepares to host one of the largest and most vibrant carnivals on the global stage.
A World-Class Carnival Celebration
This year, the renowned Carnaval de Santa Cruz in Tenerife is scheduled to transform the streets from February 13th to February 22nd. The festivities are a spectacular blend of colour and culture, featuring nightly parties, exuberant parades, and elaborate costume competitions. It's a cultural experience that adds an unforgettable layer to any winter holiday.
Affordable Indulgences and Authentic Cuisine
Enjoying the local fare and drink in Tenerife need not break the bank. A pint of local beer, such as Dorada, typically costs between €1.50 and €3.00 (approximately £1.30 to £2.60). For an authentic and economical dining experience, visitors are encouraged to seek out 'Guachinches'. These small, local restaurants, primarily found in the island's north, serve homemade Canarian cuisine and house wine in an intimate, cosy setting.
Their limited menus often feature grilled meats, local cheeses, and hearty stews, with full meals commonly priced between €8 and €10 (around £7 to £9). This offers incredible value for money while immersing travellers in genuine island culture.
Exploring Tenerife's Natural and Coastal Wonders
February presents an ideal opportunity to explore the island's dramatic landscapes. A visit to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site, Teide National Park, is highly recommended. Visitors can take the cable car up Mount Teide for breathtaking panoramic views or hike through its unique volcanic terrain.
For those preferring coastal relaxation, the sea temperature remains around 19°C, making beaches perfect for sunbathing. The southern resorts, such as Playa del Duque or Los Cristianos, are particularly favoured for their sunny microclimates. Picturesque locations like the historic coastal town of Garachico, with its unspoilt charm and white-walled houses, or the stunning cliffs of Los Gigantes, offer further scenic diversity.
Unbeatable Travel Deals for Winter Sun
The most compelling news for UK travellers is the availability of exceptionally cheap flights. We have found mid-morning Ryanair flights from multiple UK airports to Tenerife for just £15 one-way in February. This means you could feasibly be enjoying a sangria by your hotel pool in time for dinner.
Specific deals include flights on February 9th from Bristol, Manchester, East Midlands (Nottingham), Edinburgh, and various London airports starting at £15. Additional options from Liverpool, Newcastle, and Glasgow are available for under £30. For a complete getaway during the carnival season, return flights from Manchester can be secured from as little as £30.
Accommodation also remains very affordable. For instance, a double room at the two-star Hotel Rural Vilaflor costs around £70 per night in February, ensuring a budget-friendly stay. With its perfect climate, world-famous festival, affordable lifestyle, and stunning natural beauty, Tenerife stands out as the ultimate winter sun destination for Brits seeking an immediate escape from the gloom.
