5 sunny ‘Twixmas’ getaways for a festive season retreat

Ah, Twixmas! The blissful breather between the chaos of Christmas and the revelry of New Year's Eve.

The five-day pause is the perfect moment to sneak away from the family fun (and madness) and treat yourself to a well-deserved break. You’ve got just enough time to squeeze in four relaxing nights away – and if you’re anything like us, you’ll want to be somewhere sunny and with plenty of charm.

From an elegant Maltese retreat to secluded stay in the Algarve, these tranquil oases will help you recharge your batteries before NYE.

1. Alp Paşa Hotel, Antalya, Turkey

Time travel to the 18th century at the Alp Paşa Hotel in Antalya's old town. This boutique hotel oozes history and charm, with unique local décor and rooms named after Ottoman pashas. Picture yourself strolling through gardens bursting with Mediterranean blooms, or sipping red wine in the property’s hidden garden.

Fancy a beach day? They’ve got you covered with free access to sun-loungers and parasols on Lara Beach. Refuel after a slow day of exploring at the hotel’s restaurants, which serve up delicious Mediterranean delights.

The deal: Four nights at the four-star Alp Paşa Hotel in Antalya from £411pp with breakfast included. Flights departing Gatwick on 26 December 2024.

2. Marsol Hotel, Lloret de Mar, Spain

Imagine starting your morning with a swim in a sun-warmed rooftop pool, protected from any December chills by a clever retractable glass roof. The Marsol's winter-ready design means you get those gorgeous Mediterranean views whatever the weather.

Post-swim, hop in the rooftop hot tub or warm up in the Turkish bath or claim a cosy corner of the terrace bar, where you can watch the winter sun set over the beach with a hot chocolate (or something stronger).

The best bit? You're right in the heart of town, so no long walks in the winter evening to find dinner.

The deal: Four nights at the four-star Marsol Hotel in Lloret de Mar from £385pp with breakfast included. Flights departing Stansted on 27 December 2024.

3. Agua Marinha, Algarve, Portugal

When winter hits Portugal's fishing villages, the tourists disappear but the charm doubles.

This adults-only spot in sleepy Olhos d'Agua feels like discovering a secret – just 22 rooms, each with a sun-trap balcony perfect for that post-Christmas breakfast in the sunshine.

The winter Algarve means empty beaches for morning walks, cosy afternoons by the heated saltwater pool and still-warm evenings perfect for discovering local restaurants serving freshly caught fish. And at this price, it's cheaper than staying home with the heating on.

The deal: Four nights at the three-star Agua Marinha in Olhos d'Agua from £273pp with breakfast included. Flights departing Luton on 26 December 2024.

4. AX The Victoria Hotel, Sliema, Malta

Settle into plush armchairs in the Victoria's warm, inviting lobby, where winter evenings feel delightfully cosy.

While Malta's winter sun lights up the harbour, you can split your time between the heated indoor pool and the rooftop terrace, or warm up in the Finnish sauna after exploring Sliema's boutiques.

The Penny Black bar, with its dark wood and vintage posters, is made for those in-between days when you want to feel somewhere between Christmas cosy and Mediterranean escape.

The deal: Four nights at the four-star AX The Victoria Hotel in Sliema from £549pp with breakfast included. Flights departing Gatwick on 26 December 2024.

5. Amphora Hotel & Suites, Paphos, Cyprus

Modern luxury meets beachside bliss at the four-star Amphora Hotel & Suites. Set amongst landscaped gardens just metres from the sea, each of the 95 stunning suites offers incredible views over the Med.

Described as a ‘serene sanctuary’, you’re spoilt for choice for ways to unwind. When you’re not sunning yourself by the pool, you can indulge your tastebuds with fresh Cypriot cuisine at the restaurant or hunker down in the lounge bar and make your way through the curated selection of wines.

With complimentary transfers to Paphos Airport included, your trip will be smooth sailing from the moment you arrive.

The deal: Four nights at the four-star Amphora Hotel & Suites in Paphos from £359pp with breakfast included. Flights departing Birmingham on 26 December 2024.

*All prices correct as of 13 December 2024. Please note prices can fluctuate daily and may appear differently on provider site for this reason. Deals are subject to the partners' T&Cs.