It is a truth universally acknowledged that should you wander outside without an umbrella in the month of April you are liable to get a good soaking. Occasionally the April sun will make an appearance; just long enough for you to hang your washing, stoke up the barbecue or don your walking boots and head to the hills. But trust not a cloudless sky in the month of April, at least if you live in the UK.
So where is hot in April? Where can you travel to for more or less guarantee sunshine, as well as walking routes that encompass some of the most breathtaking views on the planet?
Here we have showcased two of our holidays that have the best weather in April for walkers, the Algarve in Portugal and Gozo, though rest assured we have plenty more walking holidays operating in April.
Well-known for its year-round sunshine and pleasant temperatures, Portugal’s Algarve is a no-brainer if you’re looking at boosting your levels of vitamin D in April. The region has so many highlights, but to name a few: the sandy beaches, interesting towns, delicious seafood and numerous species of birds (great bird-watching here!). Due to its popularity, we run 4, 6, 7, 8 and 10-night trips to the region, so there are plenty of options for you to choose from. With Headwater you’ll explore the quieter, more rugged, traditional western side of the Algarve, as opposed to the big resorts along the south coast. Our Headwater reps know the region inside-out and are available 24/7 during your holiday, to transport your luggage between hotels, meet you on arrival to go through all maps and route directions with you and help you out with any questions you may have.
The beautiful, peaceful Maltese island of Gozo also has some fine walking opportunities and weather. In April you can expect around eight hours of sunshine each day with daytime temperatures around the 20 degrees Celsius mark, and rarely dropping to single figures overnight.
Our self-guided walking holiday to the island bases you in the tranquil and resplendent Hotel Ta’ Cenc & Spa, set amongst 400 acres of ecological grounds bursting with flora and fauna.
When you step away from the hotel, though, you will find lush inland areas surrounded by beautiful coves, cliffs and beaches, with sleepy but welcoming fishing villages dotted around its perimeter. Known as the “Island of the Three Hills” the topology is varied enough to offer some challenging hikes, while also given many options for walking of the most relaxed kind: taking in the beautiful surroundings and stopping regularly to sample the local cuisine, perhaps feasting on the catch of the day with a glass or two of the local wine.
Gozo has long been thought to be the mythological island of Ogygia where – according to Homer’s Odyssey – the nymph Calypso detained Odysseus. And if you visit Gozo the place is sure to have a similar hold on you as the natural beauty and relaxed pace of life allows all your worries to vanish into the warm, fresh air.