OUT OF SEASON ESCAPES

For a winter break with a difference, head to one of these dazzling islands

Île de Ré, France

Zig-zagged by cycle paths and with a fairly flat terrain, this island off France's west coast is great to explore by bike. Its villages are delightfully quaint - picturesque bakeries show off freshly baked goods each morning behind mottled glass panes and cobbled streets winded by adorable pastel-colored cottages. Check out the Lilleau des Niges nature reserve with 65 species of overwintering birds, and tuck into fabulous French produce - oysters are very much in season. Four-star hotel La Baronnie Hotel & Spa has pastel shuttered windows, a gorgeous garden, and sumptuous rooms. From £170 per night for two; hotel-labaronnie.com.

Majorca, Spain

While Majorca is known for its bustling beaches during summer, it's worth a visit in winter too. The charming little village of Artà is packed full of unique restaurants, bustling cafes, and boutique shops - make a beeline for Café Parisien's secret winter garden or Forn Nou's rooftop restaurant for sublime dishes and sweeping views.