Winter is a bleak time for many in the UK – there is often little sunshine, the weather is cold and after December ends, the excitement of Christmas drizzles away.
Our nation sees some of the lowest winter light in Europe with only 41 to 62 hours of sunshine in January.
But there is a dreamy destination, only a four hour flight away, that could provide a much needed break from the gloomy weather.
Cyprus basks in three times the amount of sunshine as the UK in January and averages at highs of around 17°C.
The Mediterranean island enjoys around 3,400 hours of sun each year and mid-winter averages at five to six hours of bright rays a day.
During the cooler season, it sees 380 per cent more UVB doses than Northern Europe, which is vital for energy, sleep and good moods.
Online travel agency First Choice reveals how with the abundance of sunshine and landscapes in Cyprus lends itself to being a good spot for ‘winter wellness’.
From salt lakes inhabited by flamingos and mountain hikes enjoyable even in the cold months, the island has plenty to explore during its sunny hours.
Cyprus basks in three times the amount of sunshine as the UK in January and averages at highs of around 17°C
‘January in the UK can be pretty bleak, and we know that holidays are a huge driver of relaxation, mood boosting and wellbeing,’ Kevin Nelson, First Choice managing director said.
‘Picking a short break somewhere like Cyprus is a great hack for finding a few days of brightness that gives people the boost they need to shape the rest of their winter.’
What’s more, it’s relatively affordable to catch the winter rays in Cyprus, too.
Flights in January can be bagged from London to Cyprus from as little as £54 on Skyscanner.
Hotels can be found for around £200 for a week’s stay in mid-January, too, on Booking.com.
Some Brits have made a permanent move to the sunny destination, instead of simply holidaying there.
Sarah, 48, and James Moore, 47, relocated from Middlesbrough with their two children, nine-year-old Bea and Miles, five.
They now live on just one salary, and ditched their 60-hour work weeks in the UK and £400-a-month heating and council tax bills.
IT technician James had lived in Cyprus in his 20s while working in the military and suggested the family move there.
The Mediterranean island enjoys around 3,400 hours of sun each year and mid-winter averages at five to six hours of bright rays a day.
They were hoping to find better schools, improved work life-balance, lower crime rates, and more affordable living.
The Moores made the big move in April, after James was offered remote a job in Protaras, Cyprus, but on on a UK wage with a UK company, in November last year.
James works less hours but earns enough that they can live on just one income.
Now, the family of four spend more time together and were ‘instantly happier’ soon after they relocated.
Prices correct as of December 29, 2025.
