From Morocco to the Maldives, we've rounded up our go-to winter sun destinations for those of you wanting to cling onto summer a little longer...

It's official. The clocks have gone back, those autumn leaves are falling, and summer is well and truly over (sad face). But there’s one good thing about the arrival of the cold weather; those beachy winter sun destinations are calling! Already missing your dose of Vitamin D? Here’s our top pick of sun-drenched escapes you (and your Instagram) should have on your radar:

Morocco: Culture-rich 

For those of you partial to a bit of mild sunshine rather than boiling temperatures, with an average flight time of four hours from the UK, Morocco is the perfect winter break. This vibrant place will awaken your senses, from bustling souks to the stunning gardens and riads. Winter is also the perfect time to explore this hub of culture and cuisine away from the summer crowds. Make sure to hit up the rooftop of Nomad, a buzzy Moroccan-European restaurant in the heart of city. For sundown, we suggest you head over to the iconic La Mamounia for a cocktail set amongst the lavish gardens. 

We at Team BC, highly recommend Kasbah Bab Ourika. Less than an hour from the bustle of Marrakech, this peaceful, earth-hewn hotel perches in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. Despite being unbelievably instagrammable, Bab Ourika is simple and rustic, and with the WiFi purposely patchy; it is perfect for that digital detox we all need. This is a place to unwind, read that book you’ve been dying to dig into, and gaze up at the stars. On that note, we’ll be returning..! 

Mexico: Exceptional cuisine, ancient culture and diverse scenery

This is an adored destination by bohemian sun seekers for its golden beaches, meals you’ll never forget, and of course; tequila! Stay at the Mezzanine Colibri Boutique Hotel in Tulum for the most breathtaking view straight from your hammock. 

When you’re ready to take yourself away from the panorama, swap the ocean for your perfect cenote - a natural pool within a sinkhole of limestone in the jungle. Here you can swim under a natural skylight. Definitely do a day trip to the extraordinary archeological ruins at Chichén Itzá - an ancient Mayan city. We cannot recommend enough Mexico’s Rosewood Myakoba. Surrounded by emerald jungle, this beautiful resort was designed to blend harmony with natural landscapes, built to abide by the highest of eco-standards, receiving the Rainforest Alliance Certification. 

For the magical mix of ancient and lively right now cultures, Mexico is a must. 

Maldives: For world class beaches

A notoriously romantic destination, a trip to the Maldives all but guarantees the most relaxing time of your life. With its talcum powder sands and impossibly blue waters so clear you can see shells on the seabed. Sounds too good to be true, right?

Stay at the Four Seasons Landaa Giraavaru for Maldives’ only UNESCO biosphere reserve. Get yourself a Sunrise water villa and enjoy the most spectacular sunrise, plus baby sharks and stingrays swimming beneath your feet. This extraordinary hotel also offers a multi-award winning Spa & Ayurvedic Retreat, one of Asia’s renowned centres of natural healing, a three-acre sanctuary of wellness that includes everything from AntiGravity yoga to Panchakarma. Utter. Bliss.

Turkey: Extended weekend wellness

Not only is Turkey great for winter sun, but it is also local enough for an extended weekend away for all you busy bees! Our very own Lauren Mitchell recommends the elegant Macakizi Resort near Bodrum for its incredible views over the Aegean. Contemporary and chic, the Macakizi is perfect for a chilled out stay. Equipped with traditional Turkish hammam and a wellness centre offering up outdoor yoga lessons, this hotel is an idyllic haven for a guaranteed quality getaway. 

Dubai: Guaranteed Vitamin D

The United Arab Emirates has become a haven for couples and families all after some heat, with its daytime temperature pinning itself resolutely to the 30C mark. For opulence and oasis, stay at The Palazzo Versace shimmering amongst the palm trees on the banks of the Dubai creek. No expense has been spared at this trademark Versace hotel with its Neoclassical Greek decor blending effortlessly with Arabic architecture. 

Definitely dine alfresco to observe the sublime waterfront development with open views of the Dubai Creek. Let’s not forget, if you fancy taking a break from basking in your bikini by the water, Dubai has incomparable retail with several dozen shopping malls. Maybe the “City of Gold” is just what you need!