by Linda Hill Miller
Choosing the perfect family holiday can seem a daunting task, especially if your budget is tighter this year. But no matter which destination appeals, some things are always important to consider, particularly if you have young children. Short flights and transfer times cut crankiness to a minimum while great facilities, easy access to beaches and family-friendly restaurants and amenities make for the best memories.
Kids Clubs are important to some families but make sure you choose the right hotel with the right clubs to suit your family’s ages and needs.
The favourite holiday spots for UK families are consistently popular for a reason. Here is why they’re still a great choice:
- MAJORCA
In under three hours, Majorca’s beautiful beaches are perfect for swimming and paddling or for water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. There are lots of fabulous family-friendly resorts and restaurants that serve delicious local cuisine. Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore the island’s stunning scenery, or try your hand at something new, Majorca has something for everyone.
- THE ALGARVE
Just over three hours away, the Algarve can keep everyone entertained. It has some of the most beautiful beaches in Europe, where you can swim, sunbathe or get stuck into water sports. Historic towns and villages like Lagos and Silves are nearby if you love a bit of adventure, or you can cycle, hike, kayak, surf, and even swim with dolphins. With a reputation for hospitality and excellent cuisine, the Algarve is a great choice.
- COSTA DEL SOL
Three and a half hours away, the Costa Del Sol’s lovely beaches are perfect for soaking up year-round sunshine, swimming and building sandcastles. Historic towns and cities including Malaga and Marbella are a great day out, and for energetic families there’s hiking in the Sierra de las Nieves or kayaking, paddleboarding, and surfing. There are great water parks, such as Aqualand Torremolinos and AquaMijas, and amusement parks like Tivoli World.
- CORFU
Corfu is under four hours away and has lots of great family activities and attractions. Besides the amazing beaches and beautiful coastline, you can make memories exploring the island’s fascinating history and culture, with highlights including the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Corfu and the Achilleion Palace. Popular outdoor activities are hiking, cycling, and water sports. The main water parks (Aqualand, and the Corfu Aquarium) are always a hit.
- LANZAROTE
Just over four hours away, Lanzarote is renowned for volcanic beaches, crystal-clear water and year-round sunshine. It has lots of activities and attractions for families, from exploring the Timanfaya National Park’s lunar landscapes to visiting the Cueva de los Verdes lava tubes. Water parks and amusement parks like Rancho Texas and Aqualava Waterpark are also popular, and there are lots of opportunities for pottering, as well as for fun and adventure. Lanzarote is also known for having a lovely breeze which can be very welcome in the summer months.
- CRETE
In four and a half hours, you can be on the amazing, ancient island of Crete. Highlights include the Minoan Palace of Knossos and the historic old town of Chania. For adventure, there’s hiking in the spectacular Samaria Gorge or water sports including snorkelling and scuba diving. The island has excellent water parks – the Acqua Plus Water Park and Watercity – as well as amusement parks like the Dinosauria Park.
- RHODES
The island of Rhodes is also four and half hours away with stunning beaches and fascinating history and culture, including the Medieval Old Town of Rhodes and the ancient Acropolis of Lindos. For active families, there’s hiking in the Valley of the Butterflies and water sports like windsurfing and jet skiing. The island’s water parks, such as the Faliraki Water Park and the Rhodes Aqua Park, are also a fantastic, popular day out.
