With over 1,000 islands and atolls in the Maldives, there’s bound to be the right one for your beach getaway. It tends to be clear and sunny in February, and the weather is warm without being too hot. Laze the day away from the deck of your overwater bungalow or embrace beach life on a budget by staying in a local guesthouse. Either way, a stretch of white sand is bound to be nearby. Cool off on a scuba dive or snorkel. There’s often excellent visibility in February, and you might get lucky enough to spot manta rays, sea turtles, schools of pelagic fish and whale sharks.

February is one of the best times to hit the slopes in St. Anton, the legendary alpine village where skiing was born. The days are crisp and clear, with regular snowfalls blanketing the mountains in fresh, powdery snow. With around 85 lifts and chairlifts, you’ll have access to over 500 kilometres of terrain, offering runs for all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned skier, the ski and snowboard schools are there to guide you along the way. As the lifts close for the day, the town comes alive with a lively après-ski scene, where cosy bars and restaurants welcome travellers from all over the world. Refuel for the next day’s adventure with hearty Tyrolean dishes like cheesy spaetzle (Käsespätzle) and comforting potato dumplings (Knödel).

The Milford Track in Fiordland National Park is one of the most stunning hikes in the world, guiding you through diverse landscapes of alpine deserts, mountain ridges, glacial valleys, lush fern forests, roaring rivers and misty waterfalls. The highest point of the trek, Omanui (McKinnon Pass), offers sweeping panoramic views of dramatic valleys and the surrounding park. The 55-kilometre journey takes around four days to complete, with February being one of the best times to tackle the track. The days are long, skies are typically clear, and the weather is warm. Cosy huts along the way welcome you to tuck in after a long day out exploring (bookings essential).

One of Spain’s best-kept secrets is how perfect Barcelona is to visit in February. With daytime temperatures hovering around a cool 16°C and generally clear skies, it’s an ideal time to explore the city without the summer crowds. Iconic sights like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and the Gothic Quarter are much quieter, allowing you to fully soak in the experience without spending time in long queues. Accommodation is more affordable, and securing a table at the city’s top restaurants is far easier. February also brings the festive spirit of Carnaval, with vibrant parades, art exhibitions, colourful costumes and lively street performances, adding an extra layer of excitement.

The earliest explorers of Patagonia did so on horseback, trotting through the dramatic landscapes of the Andes. Follow in the gauchos’ hoofprints and go on a horseback riding journey around tranquil lakes, dramatic valleys and never-ending steppes. Tour operators offer day rides and multi-day journeys, all catered to your skill level. Some multi-day rides, like Jakotango, involve luxurious safari-style tents and three-course meals. One of the prettiest places to go on day rides is El Calafate, where a serene lake dotted with glaciers sets the scene, and the gorgeous Perito Moreno Glacier is the highlight. Operators such as Cerro Frias offer sunset rides, where you can watch the sky transform into a canvas of pinks over the surrounding peaks.