Brits seeking an alternative to traditional winter destinations will find that a hidden gem of the Mediterranean in North Africa that offers a rich mixture of history, culture, and natural beauty – with few tourists and bargain prices.

Algeria combines Mediterranean charm, desert mystique, and vibrant cities – and highs of 25C in December and pints of beer that cost around £1.25.  All of this makes it a winner as a winter break destination.

Indeed, the winter months are an ideal time to explore Algeria – as the temperatures are cooler and more comfortable compared to the scorching summer months. Coastal cities like Algiers and Oran enjoy mild Mediterranean weather – while the Sahara Desert is warm during the day.

Capital city Algiers blends  French colonial architecture and traditional Algerian culture. Its Casbah is a UNESCO World Heritage site  famous for its narrow winding streets, historic mosques, and Ottoman palaces.

The stunning Notre Dame d’Afrique, a Catholic basilica, offers panoramic views of the city and shouldn’t be missed. Nor should the Botanical Garden Hamma – elegant French and English-style gardens with fountains, a small zoo and a fine art museum.

Elsewhere in Algeria, Oran is a city of charm and rhythm.  It is known for its vibrant music scene and Spanish colonial influence.

While in Oran, visit Fort Santa Cruz for a historical perspective. And make sure you immerse yourself in the sounds of rai music, a genre that originated in the region.

Meanhwile, Constantine is a city of architectural wonders, perched dramatically over a deep gorge.  Its gravity-defying bridges and ancient history make it a photographer’s dream. Visit the Ahmed Bey Palace and the Cirta Museum to delve into the city’s past.

And Algeria’s section of the mighty Sahara Desert is a must-see for adventure seekers  – with camel treks and 4×4 excursions available from tour operators.  From the dramatic sand dunes of Taghit to the prehistoric rock art in Tassili n’Ajjer, the desert offers a surreal experience.

Foodies are also in for a treat – Algerian cuisine is a delicious fusion of Mediterranean, Berber, and Arab flavors.

Try traditional dishes like chakhchoukha, a hearty stew with shredded flatbread – and mahjouba, a type of stuffed crepe. Winter is also the perfect time to sip mint tea while enjoying local sweets like makroud and baklava.

Bargain hunters should also be more than happy – Algeria is much cheaper than the UK.  Budget hotels and guesthouses can be found for £10–£25 per night – while something luxurious in Algiers or Orhan would set you back between £80–£150 per night.

As for eating out, expect to pay £5–£10 for a meal at a mid-range restaurant – including drinks. If you prefer fine dining, £15–£30  a high-end restaurant meal with multiple courses can cost as little as £15!

There are, however, some downsides… UK tourists need a visa to visit Algeria, which can be obtained through the Algerian Embassy in London.  You must also ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and prepare detailed paperwork, including proof of accommodation and an itinerary.

While Algeria has improved its security situation recently, some regions remain off-limits for tourists.  The UK Foreign Office currently advises against all travel to parts of Algeria – including within 30km of its borders with Mauritania, Mali, Niger and Libya, and the border with Tunisia in the provinces of Illizi and Ouargla and in the Chaambi mountains area.

The FCDO advises against all but essential travel within 30km of Algeria’s border with Tunisia. However, the rest of Algeria is considered relatively safe—the FCDO merely advises Brits to see its advice before travelling.