Perfect holidays for the whole family

Your kids want aqua parks and ice cream on tap, you’re dreaming of infinity pools, gourmet restaurants and maybe even a spa. Amanda Statham, Editor of 101 Family Holidays, reveals how to keep all members of the brood happy on holiday this year with these resorts, attractions and other ideas that help you create holidays for the whole family.

When expectations of a family holiday differ, it’s never easy. We all know that the cool boutique hotels where we hung out pre-kids don’t necessarily make for a great family holiday. Cries of “Where’s the pool?” and “I want waffles for breakfast!” tend to take the edge off a stay in a fancy designer riad. Yet there are also fantastic alternatives to cheap and cheerful all-inclusive resorts. There is a middle ground between romantic boltholes and “standard” family fare. I’m here to help you find it.

Ultimate UK escapes for the whole family

A staycation is still on the cards this year for many of us. Relatively hassle-free journeys (no lengthy airport queues or mask-wearing), with easy access to snacks and (hopefully) some sunshine sounds like a dream to most parents. The big issue is where to stay that ticks all the boxes.

The cottage with a pool

This is the ultimate family-friendly Brit break. While you do ‘fun’ things like plot hikes to local sightseeing spots, peruse nearby restaurant menus online and head off to farmers’ markets to buy essentials only to return with expensive pots of honey, the kids are having the time of their lives splashing around in the pool all day. Job. Done. Check out holidaycottages.co.uk for a brilliant selection of houses with outdoor pools (they’ve got plenty with shared indoor pools too).

The seaside escape

Kids love being by the sea (and in it), as do we, however that doesn’t mean a beach break always goes to plan. While they usually want to dig holes and fill them with water, which is fun for an hour but not five, we hanker to read a book on a lounger and maybe even have a glass of sand-free wine at sunset. The solution? Cornwall’s Sands Resort Hotel & Spa which not only has a glorious stretch of golden beach, but also offers childcare, arts and crafts sessions, family-friendly early evening dining, allowing you to eat later together in the adult-only restaurant (there’s a baby listening service!) and lots of activities for all ages, from splash park to spa. Happy days.

The eco adventure

Going green doesn’t have to mean giving up on luxuries or having less fun. Sustainable travel has come on in leaps and bounds and adults and kids both benefit. For example, Classic Cottages now has a portfolio of 34 eco cottages that will satisfy any environmental concerns – green energy tariffs, welcome packs stocked with local produce and efficient heating systems – while ensuring kids have an unforgettable time with gorgeous grounds to roam and beds to squabble over. 

The glamping getaway

Why camp when you can glamp? I came to this conclusion years ago and haven’t looked back. I rate Sugar & Loaf which has unearthed lovely shepherd’s huts, pods and bell tents with comfy beds and perhaps even a wood-burning stove to keep you toasty at night. Kids love them because technically it’s camping, meaning they can stay up late and run around in PJs and wellies, but actually you’re glamping, which means you get a decent night’s sleep. Everyone’s a winner.

Mediation in the Med (even teens will love these!)

The Mediterranean is a great place for a family holiday, offering such a diverse range of places and activities you’re sure to be able to find some middle ground.

Aqua amusement in Corfu

Hands up who likes a pool on holiday? That’ll be everyone then, however ‘swimming pool’ can mean different things to different people. Kids tend to love slides, squirts, sprays and noise, while adults often prefer a ‘lie by the edge of an infinity pool’ vibe. The solution? The five-star MarBella Corfu has just opened its own Anemelia Aqua Park, which (and this is crucial) also offers an infinity pool with a bar and uninterrupted sea views. The dream. 

Villa thriller in Lefkada

A villa’s a great way to get some privacy on holiday, however it can mean you miss out on all the facilities of a resort. Allow me to introduce you to Simpson Travel’s Mousses Villas, probably the most family-friendly villa complex in Greece. There are 12 three- and four-bedroom villas in gorgeous grounds, which cleverly also has on-site childcare in the form of a Hatchlings Crèche for infants, Turtles Club (4-6 years) and Dolphins for older age groups. Your kids make friends and enjoy new activities, you get to spend some quality time by the pool or at the sociable barbecue night and there’s a beach just five minutes’ drive away. *Books immediately.

Keep it cool in Ibiza

If you’re the kind of parent who still pines for chic design hotels, then the White Isle is one of the best places to satisfy your longing for architecturally impressive resorts while keeping the kids happy. Hip hotels like Nobu Hotel Ibiza Bay are actually very accommodating to families despite their cool credentials; think interconnecting suites, kids club access, separate adult and family swimming pools and breakfast buffets little ones will love! Book with The Inspiring Travel Company.

Independence in Sardinia

One of the best things about being on holiday when you’re young is a sense of freedom. Being able to roam with new-found friends for the day was something most of us took for granted growing up but is harder to find in 2022. Step forward Forte Village Resort in Sardinia – a village-style resort where kids really are safe to cycle off and get an ice cream or head over to the aqua park or football academy for a workshop. Bonus points for the ten swimming pools, cooking classes, amazing spa and white sand beach. An unforgettable holiday for tots, teens and you.

Sociable teens in Turkey

You still want a family holiday, your teen just wants to hang out with people of a similar age. The solution? Activities Abroad is a group adventure holiday company that brings families together for all kinds of action-packed itineraries, such as mountain biking, hiking, kayaking and tubing in Turkey, for example.

Far-flung fun (for all the family)

Travelling with the family long-haul is exciting but comes with its own challenges, from boredom on planes to new cuisines to try. Keep your clan happy with these exotic escapes that still have enough of the familiar to ensure a smooth vacation.

Action and adrenaline in Abu Dhabi

Heard of Yas Island? Time to look it up as this Abu Dhabi playground appeals to all ages; think theme parks, rollercoasters, aqua zones, even a Formula One racetrack to test your driving skills. Seeking something a little more relaxed? Yas Beach is a powder white haven, while Yas Mall will keep fashion junkies happy. Probably the least likely place you’ll hear ‘I’m bored’. Book with Etihad Holidays.

Learn new skills in Thailand

You’re never too old to learn, which is why Club Med Phuket is such a hit with families. Not only is it a bargain escape, but it also has so much to offer, with younger children trying their hand at circus skills, Thai boxing and archery at Mini Club Med, while older kids (11-17 years) can try DJing, gaming, trapeze lessons and tennis. And what about mum and dad? Adults don’t miss out on the fun, with activities like Thai cooking classes, expeditions on a traditional sailing boat and Thai boxing on the menu. 

Everything included in the Caribbean

Having everything paid for upfront, with no nasty bill at the end, means everyone can relax on holiday. And the brilliant thing about Beaches Resorts (there are hotels in Jamaica and Turks & Caicos) is that they offer way more than your average all-inclusive, such as scuba-diving lessons, waterparks, gourmet dining, mini bars, Xbox play lounge, high-tech fitness centres, beach cabanas and kids camps. Basically, there’s something to do whether you’re eight or 80, so this could be a good option if you want to take the grandparents too.

Visit 101 Family Holidays to find more great ideas for your next family trip.

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