How to best protect wooden window sill

[rflook]

Hi, after doing some paint work on the side of my house, I have realised that the varnish is peeling on the window sills. I don't want the weather protection to fail on these so am planning on sanding them back and then reapplying either paint or varnish, perhaps after applying a water repellent seal.

Quick question, what provides the better weatherproofing? Varnish or paint (whichever I choose it would be with waterproofing qualities)?

 

[Burnerman]

It has to be a product that sinks in, I feel so its something from the Sadolin range of wood stains for me.
John

 

[Ryler]

Have just did all my pine windows with gloss yacht varnish.
Been about 20 years since they were done previously with the same.
Sanded back to bare wood to 120 grit.
The first coat goes on with 50% thinners. That gives maximum absorption into the timber.
Then another 3 coats after that, very thin/light coats with a quality brush.
Wire wooled before the final coat and 12 hours between each coat.
Final finish will be similar to a sprayed finish if you follow that.
Basically what it says on the tin.