The British winters are undoubtedly long and dark. And while exercising outdoors is of course possible - and preferable, as any natural light is better than none, even on a cloudy day there's no denying a spot of sun will boost not only your mood but also your health. Only a four-hour plane trip away is Crete, the largest of the Greek islands, where you get almost guaranteed sunshine all year round - making it a great location for planning a spring escape.

Expect temperatures between 15°C and 24°C - ideal for hiking, cycling, and exploring the surrounding countryside, which comes into full bloom in spring.

A 25-minute taxi ride west from Crete's Heraklion Airport sits Fodele Beach & Waterpark, spanning almost the entire western side of a bay. The resort's location among rolling hills and mountains makes it an excellent starting point for hikes and mountain biking to give those calf and thigh muscles a good workout. Follow the trail between the resort and the nearby village of Fodele, renowned as the birthplace of the famous painter El Greco. This scenic hike winds through olive groves, citrus orchards and traditional stone paths. For more seasoned hikers, Crete's larger network of trails, including the renowned E4 European Walking Path, is also accessible from Fodele.

But you needn't even leave Fodele Beach's grounds to condition your legs, as the waterpark and sport courts are perched at the top of the hill, to which a mini train takes guests up and back throughout the day. But why do that when you can march up to the top of the hill, play a game of tennis and march down again? You'll soon have legs and buns of steel.