Spring is so close we can almost taste it – but sadly, not close enough to bring with it that much-needed warmth. While London continues to experience single-digit temperatures, it’s fair to say our expectations of an early spring heatwave have been well and truly dampened. So, if your requirement for a healthy dose of Vitamin D has become more of a need than a want (we hear you), here’s where to travel in March for some guaranteed sunshine this month – and our favourite luxury hotels to book while you’re there. 

Rhodes, Greece

Average temperature in March: 19°C

Undoubtedly one of Greece’s most famous destinations, Rhodes is the largest of the Dodecanese islands in the Mediterranean. A haven for well-heeled historians – the island was once the country’s capital – Rhodes offers five-star luxury in spades while celebrating its heritage, evident in the preserved ancient ruins scattered across the island, the medieval Street of the Knights in the Old Town, and the grand Palace of the Grand Masters, which was once under the occupation of the Ottomans and then Italy. Its storied history has resulted in a melting pot of influences spanning food, architecture and culture – and ultimately entices more than three million tourists each year. Those with a penchant for parties and picture-perfect beaches will also find plenty to do here, with the likes of Tsambika, Agathi and Ialyssos beaches offering not only a sandy, sunbathing spot but lively bars and restaurants serving delectable food, cocktails and great vibes. 

Where to stay: Boutique 5 Hotel and Spa

A luxury adults-only haven that fringes Kiotari beach in the south of the island, H Hotels Collection’s Boutique 5 Hotel and Spa has been designed to awaken the senses. Perfect for a romantic getaway, pick from 44 modern and minimalist rooms – featuring king-sized beds, Diptyque amenities, coffee machines and 24-hour room service – which open up to balconies with sparkling private pools. 

Known as one of the best spa hotels on the island, Bliss Spa occupies the entire middle floor of the hotel, boasting state-of-the-art facilities, such as a jacuzzi, sauna, hammam, massage, and an indoor heated pool. Treatment menus are designed to create a relaxing sensorial experience, as are the culinary offerings that span the Greek-inspired a la carte restaurant, Impressions, and sundowner spot, Sketch. Perfect for honeymoons, date days and beyond, it doesn’t get more romantic and rejuvenating than Boutique 5 Hotel and Spa. 

From £180 per night. 

Sintra, Portugal

Average temperature in March: 18°C

A stone’s throw from Lisbon, March is a magical time to visit Sintra, as spring breathes new life into its lush forests and historic palaces. With comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, plus its anniversary as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, now is the perfect time to explore the fairytale landscapes of Sintra-Cascais Natural Park. Stroll through moss-covered gardens, and admire the pastel-hued mansions that once lured the Portuguese royal family to these hills, before visiting Pena Palace, with its vivid yellow and red towers, which look particularly striking against the fresh greenery. The Moorish castle offers panoramic views over the Atlantic, while, down by the coast, Praia da Adraga and Praia Grande provide dramatic cliff-backed beaches, perfect for a bracing seaside walk followed by a seafood feast with ocean views.

Where to stay: Penha Longa Resort

For those seeking a peaceful retreat with space, nature, and fine dining, Penha Longa is a five-star sanctuary set within the Sintra-Cascais Natural Park, just a 10-minute drive from Sintra. Originally a 14^th-century monastery and later a royal retreat, the resort has recently undergone a full renovation, elevating its 187 rooms and suites into palatial spaces complemented by balconies overlooking the flora and fauna of this serene patch of Portugal. The award-winning golf course designed by Robert Trent Jones, the tranquil spa, and the outdoor pool create a relaxing oasis, while foodies will be well satiated at two Michelin-starred restaurants – Lab by Sergi Arola and Midori – alongside five alternative dining options, ranging from Pan-Asian flavours to Italian cuisine. 

From £242 per night. 

Phu Quoc, Vietnam

Average temperature in March: 28°C

The first few months of the year are the best time to travel to the island of Phu Quoc, which belongs to Vietnam, but is actually closer to Cambodia. Compared to the monsoon season, which dominates the south of the country from June to August, and the north between September and November, the weather in March is more settled, allowing travellers to enjoy temperatures often reaching 30°C.

Phu Quoc is a beautiful tropical island that’s also an accredited UNESCO biosphere, providing the ideal antidote when twinned with a trip to the bustling cities of Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh. While the coastline is a huge draw, travellers can also explore the Phu Quoc National Park, visit local farms, wildlife parks or local night markets.

Where to stay: The Regent Phu Quoc

One of the most luxurious hotels on the island, the all-villa-and-suites resort of The Regent fringes the island’s best beach, treating guests to breathtaking views of the azure waters and lush landscapes. Head to the spa for a rejuvenating treatment, ranging from locally-inspired massages to relaxing treatments using Biologique Recherche and Bastien Gonzalez products. Alongside the spa, guests can enjoy the highlife with an excursion on the resort’s catamaran, providing access to coral reefs and the chance to cruise during sunsets. Kids in tow? The Regent caters to all ages with a plethora of activities – think sports, games, crafts – and a mini-indoor cinema to keep them entertained. 

The culinary offering is also a highlight, where guests are encouraged to immerse themselves in the history of the island via the Oku restaurant, serving contemporary Japanese-French cuisine, and speakeasy Bar Jade that transports guests back to an era of luxury train travel in south-east Asia. Elsewhere, enjoy sensory culinary experiences like a blind tasting dinner, Bar Jade’s signature cocktail class, latte art workshop, and dinner with a private chef. 

 From £370 per night.

Limassol, Cyprus

Average temperature in March: 21°C

Much like the Canary Islands, Cyprus has a reputation as a great winter holiday destination. Promising at least eight hours of sunshine per day in March and mild temperatures, head to Paphos for beach trips, the Troodos Mountains for hiking and exploring Byzantine churches, and the hills of Limassol for local vineyards and wineries. The latter is the second-largest city on the island after the capital of Nicosia, and is famous for the centuries-old Limassol Castle – a must-visit for history buffs. 

Where to stay: Parklane Limassol

Boasting an unrivalled culinary offering, Parklane is home to no less than six bars and restaurants, including outposts from the famed Mediterranean restaurant groups LPM and Nammos, and the picturesque Il Teatro, overlooking one of three outdoor pools while serving fresh Italian fare. Inside the hotel, accommodation ranges from beautiful adults-only suites to seafront villas with secluded private pools, as well as other family friendly options. As Cyprus’ only thalassotherapy centre, the Kalloni Spa boasts a varied treatment menu focused on detoxing and rejuvenation delivered across 14 treatment rooms and three suites (including two with Russian banya facilities) with Biologique Recherche and Thalgo products. Oh, and don't miss the pool that replicates the salinity of the Dead Sea. 

From £232 per night.

Los Angeles, USA

Average temperature in March: 21°C

The Golden State has long been a destination for Londoners seeking a slice of the high life on America’s West Coast. It’s the playground of the rich and famous (so expect price tags to match) but is also home to the nation’s film industry, with attractions such as Hollywood Boulevard and, of course, the Walk of Fame. There’s plenty to do in Los Angeles, but we’d recommend hiking to the Griffith Observatory for unparalleled views of the sprawling Californian city, and cycling the Strand: the 22-mile bike path that follows nearly the entirety of LA’s westward-facing coastline. You’d have certainly earned your tacos and rosé wine after that. 

Where to stay: The Beverly Hills Hotel

Known as the Pink Palace, this luxury hotel is a stone’s throw from Sunset Boulevard and has been made famous by the prestigious names on its guestbook, from Marilyn Monroe to Elizabeth Taylor. Now over a century old, The Beverly Hills Hotel is still going strong thanks to its undeniable allure, impeccable interiors, jaw-dropping suites, and pink parasol-lined pool where you can dine on a Caesar salad and Californian wine. Head over to the Polo Lounge for the full restaurant experience and don’t forget to don your shades – this is the place to see and be seen in Hollywood… 

From £962 per night.

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