Top 5 best European destinations for a winter break

Summer is rapidly drawing to a close, but that doesn't mean you've missed your chance to go on holiday. If you haven't yet had the opportunity to make it abroad yet, then why not start planning a getaway for later in the year instead? There's nothing more satisfying than packing your bags and leaving the dark and dismal weather back home, in favour of some highly-sought-after winter sun. There are plenty of great holiday deals to some incredible year-round destinations, so dust off your pack and check out these top five best European destinations for a winter break.

There are loads of great roads to ride in all these destinations, and plenty of adventure to be had away from the main tourist areas too. You can do the standard relaxing tourist stuff or really get away from it all, including the tourists, on a bike or with a vehicle rental. Links below to help!

1: Cyprus

Located in the heart of the Mediterranean, the island of Cyprus is blessed with year-round sunshine. In fact, the summers there can get so hot that it can actually be much more pleasant to travel there during their balmy winters. Explore the ancient sites of Paphos, soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Larnaca or experience the lively atmosphere and vibrant nightlife of Ayia Napa.

Motorcycle rentals on Cyprus, as well as mountain bikes, quads and more.

2: Malta

The picturesque island of Malta is worth a visit at any time of year, with hot summers and dry, mild winters. There are fewer crowds in the winter, so you can enjoy the island at your leisure, exploring different areas such as the historical capital city of Valletta, the bustling resort of St. Julian's or the peaceful Mellieha Bay. Diving in Malta is hugely popular, so be sure to check out the crystalline waters of the beautiful Blue Lagoon. And, while you're at it, why not pop over to Gozo, Malta's smaller sister island? The diving on Gozo is one of the best in Europe!

Motorcycle rentals on Malta

3: The Canary Islands

Without a doubt, one of the most popular places to head for a much-needed winter break is to the Canary Islands. The main islands are Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote and Fuerteventura; all of which offer sun, sea and sand, plus their own unique charm. The biggest, Tenerife, is a fantastic family destination, with fun-filled attractions such as Siam Park, Loro Parque and the impressive Mount Teide. Gran Canaria is home to fantastic beaches and sandy dunes, Lanzarote is famous for its volcanic landscape and charming fishing villages and Fuerteventura is a haven for water sports enthusiasts.

The hard part is choosing which island to ride - or do you go for more than one?

4: Madeira

This emerald island may well be a region of Portugal, but it's actually situated off the coast of Africa, meaning it boasts a warm and sunny climate all year round. It's the ideal place to get outdoors and be at one with nature, with fantastic hiking trails and great places to cycle, rock climb and kayak. The scenery is stunning, the food and wine great and the whole place has maintained its traditional charm, staying true to its cultural heritage. Don't forget to book onto a whale-watching boat trip while you're there.

Motorcycle rentals Madeira - lots of choice!

5: The Azores

Another autonomous region of Portugal, the Azores are the secret islands of Europe. Often not well-known enough to make it onto people's bucket lists, this breathtaking archipelago of nine islands is found in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and looks like something straight out of a magical fairy tale. Plan your trip properly so that you can island-hop or take part in an organised tour. But bear in mind, although it's a year-round destination and mostly sunny, there's a reason why the landscape is so lush – maybe pack a rain mac.

Again the tough choice of which island to ride!?

As always be sure your travel insurance is up-to-date AND covers you for motorcycle riding, and not just scooters, but the bigger bikes you're likely to want.

So, if you missed out on your summer holiday this year, fear not, as you'll still be able to get your fix of sunshine in one of these incredible European destinations. Which one will you choose?