Walking
Sounding pretty damn tempting in the depths of an English winter, Sherpa's (020-8577 2717, sherpa-walking-holidays.co.uk) latest escorted walking trip through Madeira includes a hike through the Valley of Paradise. Seven nights' B&B, some meals, flights, transfer and guide £799pp.

Skiing
Peak time doesn't always mean peak prices. Directski (0800 5870945, directski.com) is offering free accommodation for kids who share with their parents over the half-term week from Feb 18. A week at the three-star Hotel Hubertushof in Kaprun, Austria, costs £1,196 for two adults and two youngsters including flights and transfers.

Cycling
There are classic views on a pedal power week along the Danube from Linz to Vienna with Freewheel Holidays (01636 815636, freewheelholidays.com). It costs £599 for seven nights' B&B (two sharing), including cycle hire and luggage transfer but not flights.