LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM -- (Marketwire) -- 11/06/12 -- More Brits than ever are searching for holiday deals to warmer climes this winter. While many of us chose to stay at home this summer to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee, the dismal weather left many people missing their annual dose of sunshine. As such, Tenerife has emerged as a fantastic option for holidaymakers looking to catch up on some much-needed rays and time out on the beach.

Tenerife has long been a popular travel destination, and its proximity to Africa means that it experiences hot weather all year round. The island is on the same latitude as the Sahara Desert and experiences temperatures of around 20-22 degrees C throughout the winter. A four-hour flight from London, its tropical location but close proximity make it particularly appealing to sun-seeking Brits.

During the winter, the coastal areas of Tenerife maintain a warmer temperature, meaning summer pursuits like water-skiing and scuba diving persist all year round. Las Galletas, right on the southern tip of the island, is particularly well-known for its water sports options and diving spots. Those who like to take to the seas for a spot of big game fishing will also not be disappointed; seek out Tuna, Blue Marlin, Dolphin fish and more in an area that has been known to yield captures of up to 470kg.

Elsewhere, hiking and mountain biking are superb ways to explore the island's fascinating landscape. This is the place astronaut Neil Armstrong once described as "The closest thing to the lunar landscape I've ever seen." Lavatrax, a British mountain biking company based near Los Cristianos on the south coast of the island, run a variety of package or one-off guided tours for all abilities. In addition, hiking trips up the awe-inspiring Mount Teide are utterly unforgettable; the tallest peak in Spain, this active volcano still has smouldering lava pools and plenty of paths for both seasoned and inexperienced walkers.

Alternatively, of course, you could just spend your winter holidays lounging about on a sun bed by gorgeous blue waters - after all, the sun is definitely strong enough to just sit back, relax and think of England - or not!

Tenerife holidays from Monarch are available this winter for as little as GBP 210 per person. Scheduled flights depart from London Gatwick, London Luton, Manchester, Birmingham, East Midlands and Leeds/Bradford airports. For more information on Monarch's flights to a range of worldwide destinations, visit www.monarch.co.uk.