Summer is on its way but if you’re looking to escape into the sunshine before then but don’t have the savings for a long-haul getaway, there’s an island destination a direct flight from the UK with affordable prices and a 64 percent chance of a perfectly sunny day. Located off the northwest Atlantic coast of Africa is Gran Canaria, the third-largest and second-most-populous island of the Canary Islands.

Though the island is politically considered a part of Europe, as a Spanish archipelago, its proximity to Africa means that it enjoys much higher temperatures in April than those in mainland Europe.

Average daily highs can reach as much as 23C in April here, with average temperatures sitting somewhere between 18 and 23C. Although rainfall is more likely in the spring in Gran Canaria than in the summer, you can still expect lots of sunny days.

As April is outside of the peak travel months of the summer (permitting you don’t jet off during the Easter school holidays) there are plenty of bargain breaks to be enjoyed here too.

At the time of writing, Jet2holidays had package deals to Gran Canaria for two adults for less than £500. And if you’re looking for a last-minute deal, you’re in luck as many holiday firms lower the cost of breaks booked down to the wire in order to fill spaces. TUI’s package holiday arm has a four-night break to EO Maspalomas Resort from £270 per person for two adults.

But it’s not just cheap package holiday deals that are on offer here, with plenty of affordable dining and drinking options too. According to local tourism website GranCanariaInfo.co.uk: “Prices for most items that affect the visiting tourist are typically lower in Gran Canaria than in the UK or Ireland, and this is especially true for alcohol, making nighttime entertainment particularly affordable.”

They added: “Large beers typically cost between €2.50 and €3, though there are some places offering large beers for as little as €1.50. Spirit and mixer drinks (G&T, Rum and Coke etc) usually cost between €5 and €7. Cocktails start at about €10 in a fancy cocktail bar, with cheaper deals available in most bars.”

Resort towns are likely to be more expensive than quieter areas, but that doesn’t mean a bargain can’t be found. The website explained: “A three-course meal with fillet steaks for two with a bottle of wine typically costs about €100 in a mid-range Spanish restaurant (cheaper outside the resorts).

“There are, of course, cheaper or more expensive options, and you can still find Chinese meals for two with drinks for less than €40, or a pizza meal for two with wine for about €50. At lunchtime, there are often Menu del Día offers with three small courses and a drink for about €12.”

Gran Canaria is perfect for those seeking a fly-and-flop type of holiday, with most hotels having their own pools for guests to lounge around and take a dip. However, there is also a lot to keep you active and busy. The diverse landscape of the island makes it a perfect place for those who want to embark on an activity holiday, including lots of opportunities for climbing, cycling, hiking and even surfing the Atlantic waves.

There are plenty of guided tours and excursions on offer covering a range of abilities, and you’ll typically have a professional to coach you and point out any must-see surroundings.

There are also approximately 82 beaches spanning the circumference of the island if sunbathing and a quick dip in the sea are on your agenda. While the sea is warm enough in April for a swim, it might be too cold for some.