Predictions of a hot August for the UK, made in such a carefree manner in July, didn't quite come to fruition. Instead, the month ended with bookmaker Ladbrokes simply stopping taking bets on August being the wettest on record. Enough said.
With the UK having endured another soggy summer, many individuals are turning their thoughts to sunshine overseas and checking out short-haul flight prices to see how quickly and cheaply they can transport themselves to the nearest suntrap.
Spain is a popular destination for sun seekers at any time of year. Marc Pritchard, Sales and Marketing Director of leading Spanish homebuilder Taylor Wimpey España, comments,
"The Spanish Costas are a perfect place for enjoying some winter sun. Easy to get to and with a low cost of living, they're great for those looking for a second home that they can regularly fly to in order to top up their vitamin D levels. The Spanish islands are also fantastic, particularly Mallorca, which has an agreeable climate throughout the winter months."
Cala Anguila II in Porto Cristo, Mallorca, features two bedroom apartments costing from €230,000. Located next to the idyllic coves of Cala Anguila, Cala Romántica and Cala Mandía, the development includes ample gardens, a large swimming pool and a private sunbathing area.
"The Canaries are another great place to catch some winter sun," comments Martin Dell, Director of Spanish property portal Kyero.com, which covers sales, long-term rentals and holiday lets. "You can get some really good value rental accommodation there off-season - there are several apartments in great locations for less than €500 per week."
Spain's nextdoor neighbour Portugal is also a great place to take in some winter sun. In the southern Algarve region, there are still plentiful bargains to be had when it comes to second homes. A contemporary two bedroom townhouse close to the new Amendoeira Golf Course (Faldo/O'Connor) is available through boutique real estate agency Ideal Homes Portugal for just €185,000, while a magnificent eight bedroom villa on the outskirts of Albufeira is available for €540,000 (reduced from €950,000).
Italy's Le Marche is another lovely option during the winter months and easily reachable from many UK locations thanks to the region's busy Ancona airport. Dawn Cavanagh-Hobbs of luxury fractional ownership holiday home company Appassionata comments,
"Le Marche is a wonderful place during the winter months. There's plenty of space to relax in peace and with our latest luxury townhouse, Casa Tre Archi, you can also dip in and out of town life at your leisure. For sunny days, the property's large roof terrace is just perfect for making the most of the good weather. Part of the joy of fractional ownership in this part of Italy is the fact that you get to see how beautiful the area is in every season."
Fractions in Casa Tre Archi are available from £75,000 for five weeks' exclusive usage per year. The model has proven popular for the family-run Appassionata team, who have just begun renovation work on their fourth property in the area.
A short boat ride across the Adriatic Sea is Lalzit Bay Resort and Spa in Albania. Another convenient choice for a short-haul winter sun destination, Albania enjoys mild winters, with temperatures averaging a low point of 7°C in January. Lalzit Bay is one of the most attractive stretches of coast along the Adriatic and the resort is privileged to enjoy its own private beach. Properties available include high-end apartments and villas, with a full management service available to all owners.
Those with an extra hour or two to spend in the air can enjoy the sunshine of Turkey this winter. The meeting point between East and West, Istanbul is a fascinating city that captivates all those who visit. The Oceanic Bay View villas there, available through Universal21 from $1,595,000, offer eco-friendly detached homes with swimming pools, exquisite design and the latest in smart home technology.
Whether it's the beaches of Spain that you crave or the fast-paced city life of Istanbul, it's time to accept that the UK summer is over and start sorting out some winter sun overseas.
For more information please contact:
Taylor Wimpey España: +44 08000 121 020 | www.taylorwimpeyspain.com
Those residing outside of the UK should call 0034 971 70 69 72
Kyero.com: www.kyero.com
Ideal Homes Portugal: 0800 133 7644 | +351 289 513 434 | www.idealhomesportugal.com
Appassionata: +39 33154 13225 | www.appassionata.com
Lalzit Bay Resort & Spa: +44 845 125 8600 | www.lalzitbay.com
Universal21: 0203 287 8700 | www.universal21.com
