New Research has revealed Europe’s sunniest beaches – and there’s good news for anyone seeking some winter sun as the weather turns colder in the UK. According to data from Saga Holidays, Playa de Maspalomas in Gran Canaria is Europe’s sunniest beach during the low season, which runs from November to April.

The research used climate data to determine the number of sunshine hours and average temperatures at beaches across Europe. Playa de Maspalomas ranked in first place, with over 10 hours of average daily sunshine, and average maximum temperatures of up to 22 degrees. It was followed by Playa de las Teresitas, Tenerife and Lady’s Mile Beach in Limassol, Cyprus.

Also known as Maspalomas Beach, the destination is a popular spot for tourists visiting the southern coast of Gran Canaria. TripAdvisor said: “Famous for its vast golden sand dunes and crystal-clear water, this beach features a wide shoreline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or long walks with stunning Atlantic views.

“Deckchairs and parasols are available, and there are plenty of bars, shops, and snack kiosks nearby. Watersports, bodyboarding, and exploring the nature reserve are popular activities.” Reviewers mention that the beach remains popular throughout the year, thanks to the warm temperatures, and there’s lots of positive feedback from visitors who enjoyed winter visits.

In a review, one summer visitor wrote: “We’ve been visiting maspalomas for 24 years now and could never tire of it. Beautiful place will be here again.” Another commented: “Paradise. The sea, beach, hotels, walking boulevard, and especially the sand dunes are fantastic We have been here in winter and summer, never disappointed!!!”

Meanwhile, someone who visited in winter said: “Maspalomas is just fabulous. Wonderful area, great restaurants and bars. Mainly an adult venue with brill restaurants. For a winter sun destination it’s got it all.”

A different review said: “Winter sun. Having been to Gran Canaria several times over the last decade, the beach at Maspalomas is one of my favourites. The wide expanse of clean sand with the dunes behind make this a go to destination.

“There are good facilities at the Faro end with shops and restaurants and the long walk towards Playa del ingles has beach bars located every half a kilometre.

“This beach is inclusive and has a large stretch where clothes are optional but you can keep your trunks on and admire the views! There are plenty of sun loungers for hire or you can rest up on the sand and watch the Atlantic waves.”

A different comment read: “Winter holiday. We went to maspalomas beach and decided to walk through the dunes to playa de ingles! We stuck to the path and had a lovely slow walk. It took us an hour an half and the views were amazing.”