The Times UK recognizes Sri Lanka among the best winter sun destinations

Looking to warm up the winter months and swap snow for sandy beaches? Here are the best places to head between November and February to top up on that all-important vitamin D

As winter tightens its grip on the northern hemisphere, there’s no need to shiver through the season — travellers can get a dose of vitamin D in a diverse range of exciting destinations. Fancy a long haul? Head for Miami to cruise past alligators in the Everglades; visit the likes of Mexico, Zanzibar or Antigua for diving, touring and boat trips; see southern Sri Lanka and take in tea-tasting and temple-touring. Want some heat closer to home? Madeira and the Canary Islands will supply rays on sunny days while the rest of Europe pulls on five layers of clothing; or try the excellent resorts and reserves of the Gambia. And there’s much more — here’s our pick of the best winter sun destinations.

10. Tangalle, Sri Lanka

Average winter temperature 27C
Tangalle is the optimal spot for exploring southern Sri Lanka in the winter months. From this low-key beach town and its fudge-coloured shores, you can head westwards to Mirissa, for whale-watching excursions, or to Galle and its old fort. To the east are leopard-spotting safaris in Yala National Park, while hillside tea plantations, giant Buddhas and rock-cut temples beckon inland. A two-centre trip incorporating the north will let you tick off Sigiriya’s lion fortress and Minneriya National Park’s elephant gathering too.

Dikwella Temple, near Tangalle (Alamy)