Ah, yes, IO. Wondrous flying in silky smooth air, see forever, but almost never see another aircraft. These days I dont fly more than about 50NM except in the lower flight levels (FL40 - 75), where so often there is no cloud.
Perfect peace - as compared with the unfortunates scud running, bumping about, below, in grotty vis.
Whilst my IMC rating isn't valid abroad, continentals have VFR levels in the lower airways, so one can continue flying to sunnier climes in the same way.
If you've got 1000NM range, why not Minorca?
I've twice flown from my London area field direct non-stop to Barcelona (Sabadell), in less than 4 hours, and carrying 6hrs fuel . Direct Minorca would add maybe 40mins, still plenty of fuel reserve.
See you there?
Happy Xmas,
MikeJ