By Nadine Mellor, i-escape Kids Collection Editor
The 12 best new rentals to join our Kids Collection in 2018!
At year-end we’re celebrating the best stylish family hideaways to have joined our Kids Collection in 2018. Here are our 12 favourite new family-friendly villas and apartments.
1. Mas de Saribou, Ardeche, France
This 4-bed contemporary eco-villa is a perfect way to reconnect with nature. There’s a freshwater pool in the magical garden which also comes with hammocks, and the beautiful Ardeche region is on your doorstep for hiking, biking, canyoning and kayaking.
For Parents: An organic vegetable and herb garden to plunder for dinner
From: GBP180/night
2. Apartments Cap Sa Sal, nr Begur, Catalonia, Spain
A secluded Costa Brava getaway, this was once a glamorous hotel frequented by the 1960s jet set now converted into stunning holiday apartments for 2-6 (and a separate super-stylish modern 7-bedroomed villa). There’s a stunning swimming pool set into the rocks, long views across the shimmering Mediterranean Sea and electric bikes to borrow.
For Parents: The sense of space, these are large and open-plan apartments
From: GBP176/night in Crema Apartment
3. Rebali Riads, Sidi Kaouki, nr Essaouira, Morocco
Families adore staying in any one of these purpose-built serviced rentals in riad-style (think high ceilings, courtyards, balconies) varying in size from 1 to 4 bedrooms. There’s a tennis court, chameleons and tortoises in the garden which also has a swing and space to tear about. 3 of the riads come with a private pool (the others share another), and the shining surfing beach is seconds away.
For Parents: There’s a small spa, and you can choose to be catered for in your riad
From: GBP170/night for Dar Etoile
4. Ty Hedfan, Powys, Wales, UK
An architectural wonder, this incredible design house (for 2-6) is cantilevered over a babbling brook in the Brecon Beacons, and comes with glass walls, green walls, an outside-inside living room, 4 bedrooms, playroom and solar panels.
For Parents: Fantastic hill country for walking and biking (a carrier backpack is supplied for walking with babies and toddlers)
From: GBP157/night
5. Berlin Boutique Apartments, Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, Germany
In a converted 19th-century apartment block are these retro-styled self-catering apartments (a mix of studio, 1 & 2 bed apartments) in rich colours, plush fabrics and decorative wallpapers. This is a friendly bohemian part of Berlin, with plenty of playgrounds nearby and public transport at hand.
For Parents: Eateries in abundance in the neighbourhood
From GBP116/night for a Studio
6. The Saffron House, Dikwella, S.coast Sri Lanka
With spectacular ocean views, 3 acres of tropical gardens, 4 elegant bedrooms, and a wonderful infinity pool for those memorable sunsets this is a perfect tropical villa for a special family gathering. There’s also croquet and badminton provided.
For Parents: Delightful staff cooking knockout curries and freshly caught seafood
From: GBP357/night
7. Smeralda Beach Houses, nr Olbia, Sardinia, Italy
Just minutes from a beautiful beach on the mesmerising Costa Smeralda are this trio of whitewashed villas (sleeping 2-6) with a shared pool. You also get aromatic gardens and wonderful panoramic views.
For Parents: A welcome hamper of local products plus a bottle of wine
From: GBP107/night for Stone Cottage
8. Stellenbosch Luxury Villa, Stellenbosch, Cape Winelands, South Africa
This lavish 6-bedroom self-catering mansion is full of Old World charm and is superlative for families. It comes with a solar-heated pool, eco-pond complete with lily pads, vast lawns, treehouse, tipi and zipwire.
For Parents: A decked Jacuzzi, rates include breakfast, housekeeping and security
From: GBP919/night
9. The Beach House in Bol, Brac, Dalmatian Coast. Croatia
Set on a pine-clad hillside above windsurfing mecca Zlatni Rat, this 4-bedroom stone cottage has a pool with a view, a covered terrace and garden kitchen for easy alfresco living.
For Parents: A concierge at hand, boat trips to Hvar
From: GBP676/night
10. Boutique Apartments Sydney, inner Eastern suburbs, Sydney, Australia
Choose from a range of sizes from this clutch of contemporary self-catering apartments for 2-6 in various locations in Sydney’s inner city. Some come with stupendous harbour and city views, and balconies, and all have a modern open-plan aesthetic. All are close to sights, shopping and eateries.
For Parents: A useful info pack is supplied
From: GBP162/night for Potts Point View Apartment
11. Paradisso Beach Villas, Zakynthos, Ionian Islands, Greece
A trio of impeccable ocean-front villas set on a stunning headland above a small safe private cove, Paradisso also comes with a lush shaded garden complete with playground and a ping pong table.
For Parents: Modern kitchens, daily cleaning and a laundry room
From: GBP159/night for Villa Antonia
12. Summertime Villa, Calangute, Goa, India
This peaceful Balinese-styled villa for 2-7 is surrounded by tropical forest and 2 acres of garden yet is only 10 minutes from bustling Calangute and golden beaches. Best of all is the huge infinity pool plus a shallow leisure pool. Plus there’s a private yacht for dolphin & backwater cruises.
For Parents: Breakfast is included, other meals featuring seasonal produce provided by the wonderful staff (on request)
From: GBP338/night
Click to see our latest family-friendly additions