When northern Europe embraces frost and early dusk, Southern Europe and North Africa reveal their quieter, sunlit season—perfect for luxurious escapes off the beaten track. At Bella Vita Travels, we believe winter is for intimate terraces, rich cultural encounters, and private moments in extraordinary places. Explore four destinations where mild weather, refined hospitality, and unforgettable experiences await.
Lisbon: Winter Escapes to Portugal
Stay: Pestana Palace, Lisbon – A Belle Époque masterpiece set in lush gardens, offering elegantly restored rooms, two Michelin-star restaurants, spa, and river views.
What to do:
- Enjoy sunrise views from São Jorge Castle
- Take a bespoke wine tour through the Alentejo vineyards
- Join a hands-on seafood cooking class in Cascais
- Explore wind-swept beaches along Costa Vicentina
Andalusia, Spain
Stay: Hotel Alfonso XIII, Seville – The region’s most iconic palace-hotel with ornate Moorish accents and suites designed by celebrated architects.
What to do:
- Wander the Alhambra’s palaces under crisp winter skies
- Visit local olive mills in Jaén with private tastings
- Experience flamenco in an 18th-century hacienda
- Cruise to Ronda’s vineyards and legendary cliff bridges
Marrakech & the Atlas Foothills, Winter Escapes in Morocco
Stay: La Mamounia, Marrakech – An iconic 5-star palace set within 8 hectares of gardens. Newly restored, the hotel features ornate riads, lavish spa, indoor and outdoor pools, and Michelin-level cuisine. Its winter opening makes it the perfect escape. It is a blend of tradition and refined luxury.
Winter experiences:
- Afternoon tea in the Andalusian gardens
- Exquisite hammam and spa treatments
- Guided stroll through the renewed Médina art galleries and souks
- Private cooking class blending Moroccan spices and Mediterranean techniques
- Optional hot-air balloon ride over the softly lit Atlas foothills at dawn
Dubrovnik & the Dalmatian Coast, Croatia
Stay: Hotel Excelsior Dubrovnik – A legendary 5-star hotel perched on the cliffs below the city walls. With panoramic sea-facing rooms, a private beach, spa, and Michelin-starred dining, it remains open through winter.
What to do:
- Enjoy a guided walk atop the silent Old City walls
- Winter wine tour in the Pelješac peninsula – sample chilled reds in off-season cellars
- Scenic drive to Trsteno Arboretum amid quiet coastal roads
- Private cooking class at the hotel with a Croatian chef, featuring fresh Adriatic seafood
Why now is the time to plan
Winter stays at iconic hotels like La Mamounia and Hotel Excelsior fill quickly. Early planning secures your suite, private excursions, and personalized touches—whether that’s a winter sunset yacht cruise in Dubrovnik or an olive-oil tasting at Alentejo’s vineyards.
Your Luxe Winter Itinerary Awaits
From Lisbon’s riverfront elegance to Seville’s royal heritage, Marrakech’s storied glamour to Dubrovnik’s Adriatic calm—Bella Vita Travels crafts personal journeys tailored to your vision.
Tell us which destination calls to you, and we’ll begin designing your Winter 2025–2026 escape.
