WHERE TO STAY
Amarin Family Hotel, Croatia
Perched on the picturesque coast of Rovinj, the Amarin Family Hotel is designed with families in mind, from the lobby’s climbing net to trampolines dotted around the grounds. Kids can splash around in the water playground, join the fun with the animation team, or explore the sports facilities, while parents relax and take in the stunning Adriatic views. Kids’ club takes little ones from three months, and our girls loved the free scooters. Extra points for being stroller-friendly ie. zero stairs anywhere.
maistra.com/properties/family-hotel-amarin
Martinhal Sagres, Portugal
Martinhal Sagres is a haven for families, located in the Algarve close to a historic fishing port. Expect everything you could wish for, from an extensive kids’ club and sports academies to outstanding dining and even baby concierge services; this resort has perfected the art of hospitality, and accommodation ranges from rooms to villas. The list of facilities means you can easily spend two weeks here, so if you’re an active family, this is the one. Bike rental, five swimming pools, private beaches, mini golf and more await…
FAMILY-FRIENDLY FESTIVALS
Where to go for camping, caravans, comedy, science and a sing-along.
Camp Bestival, Dorset, UK (25-28 Jul, 2024)
Imagine a festival where both kids and adults are equally excited (probably for different reasons). Camp Bestival is just that, with a mix of music, theatre, comedy and literary events. The 2024 lineup includes Paloma Faith, McFly, Orbital, Sophie Ellis-Bextor and stars of childrens’ TV like Mr Tumble. Add circus shows, arts and crafts, and dedicated kid zones (and raves), and you have the ultimate festival experience, for all ages.
Sziget Festival, Hungary (7-13 Aug, 2024)
Held on the picturesque Óbuda Island in Budapest, Sziget Festival is one of Europe’s largest music and cultural festivals. The 2024 lineup includes artists like Kylie, Liam Gallagher and Raye, and it’s best suited to older children. The festival features a family-friendly camping area, which is free for under 11s.
Just So Festival, Cheshire, UK (16-18 Aug, 2024)
Step into a magical world at the Just So Festival, where the beautiful Rode Hall Estate comes alive with storytelling, creative workshops and adventure zones. Theatrical acts such as The Bookworm Players, whimsical puppet shows by Handmade Theatre and musical performances by The Little Unsaid are all part of 2024’s lineup. This festival is designed to ignite the imaginations of both young and old. It’s on my bucket list.
Martinhal Sagres offers a variety of indoor and outdoor activities to keep kids of different age groups entertained
Head to Efteling Park for dazzling shows, exciting rides and even fairytale overnight stays
LESSER-KNOWN ATTRACTIONS
Sorry Mickey, we’re exploring further afield…
Efteling Park, Netherlands
This Dutch amusement park brings classic stories to life with enchanting rides, captivating shows and beautiful gardens. It’s a place where fantasy becomes reality (there’s a talking tree), making Efteling a magical experience for the whole family. It also has some serious rollercoasters, and if you want to stay for longer than one day, there’s accommodation on-site.
Puy du Fou, France
The kids will never know they’re learning at Puy du Fou, a theme park where history comes to life, from the Roman empire to the 20th century. Expect spectacular live shows and immersive experiences, where all ages will be thrilled by Viking battles, knight tournaments and themed hotels.
