As winter lumbers on, it gets harder to find super-hot, short-haul sunshine – but don’t give up. A mild-weather city break and a surprisingly sophisticated island stay are both about four hours away from the UK, and are equally capable of providing a much-needed recharge. If, however, the drab skies are driving you to desperate measures – insofar as a massive blowout break can be called desperate – there are plenty of far-flung options seen in their best light this month (and be sure to check government travel advice for every destination).

Whether it’s a truly tropical beach break, a remote road trip on the other side of the world or an epic once-in-a-lifetime excursion...

well, that’s your choice..