Inspiration for January holidays

With their year-round warm climate, the Canary Islands are often referred to as the ‘islands of eternal spring’, making them the perfect antidote to the grey British winter. On La Gomera and Gran Canaria, daytime temperatures average a very pleasant 21°C in January, making for excellent walking conditions as you explore the ancient forests, lush ravines and beaches of black sand of La Gomera or the palm groves, swathes of cacti and Arizona-like scenery of Gran Canaria.

Winter is a very special time in Fuschl am See. Set amid the ethereal beauty of Salzkammergut’s lakes and mountains, this charming lakeside village is wonderfully tranquil under its blanket of snow. There is, however, plenty to do – you can explore on foot, along the many miles of prepared paths, or on snowshoes; try your hand at curling; or take the bus to nearby Salzburg. Come the end of the day, be sure to ensconce yourselves on the Hotel Seerose’s panoramic terrace with an aperitif so that you can watch the sun set across the lake.

Fittingly for a place that exudes late 19th-century elegance, the Swiss village of Kandersteg holds an annual Belle Epoque Week. With villagers sporting bonnets and cravats, and activities such as bobsleigh races and a tea dance, you can witness plenty of old-fashioned glamour – as well as enjoying some great cross-country skiing and winter walking. Even if you can’t make it for this special week, January is otherwise a pleasantly quiet month – perfect if you’re looking for tranquillity or to learn cross-country skiing in a relaxed atmosphere.