By Nadine Mellor, i-escape Kids Collection Editor
Not yet booked your family summer holiday? Fear not. We’ve rounded up some family-friendly favourites in the UK and Europe that still have school holiday space for you and your brood – if you’re quick!
UK summer availability 2019
1 The Chalet Saunton, North Devon
Beach non-negotiable for your family holiday? Enter Saunton Sands, one of England’s most awe-inspiring stretches, backed by the dunes of the Unesco-listed Braunton Burrows. Perched above are 7 luxuriously minimalist self-catering apartments, each larger than most holiday cottages, with top-spec appliances and open-plan living areas. There’s plenty to keep families occupied: surf or bodyboard on the beach below, horse ride at nearby Croyde Bay or tackle a stretch of the South West Coast Path.
July and August prices: from £500/night per apartment (sleeps up to 6 + 1 baby)
2 Bruern Cottages, The Cotswolds
These idyllic cottages (sleeping 2-14) are set in the historic grounds of Bruern Abbey, amid classic Cotswold countryside. Inside, they are homely and cosy, decorated in traditional English style, with slouchy sofas and cosy bedrooms; outside, the beautiful gardens burst with flowers and wisteria-draped paths. And you needn’t be nervous about banking on the English weather – there’s an indoor pool, games room, spa and gym on site.
July and August prices: from £203/night for a 2 bedroom cottage (sleeps 4)
3 Ffynnon, Snowdonia
How does summer in southern Snowdonia sound, spending your days wandering in the hills, mountain biking or exploring gorgeous sandy beaches? Stay at Ffynnon: set in the market town of Dolgellau at the foot of Cader Idris. The hotel has a dedicated family suite or interconnecting options, and there are toys and games to keep little ones occupied.
July and August prices: from £160/night for a double or twin suite (sleeps 2 + 1 child)
4 Antonia’s Pearls, Cornwall
Dotted across the tiny Cornish village of Charlestown are half a dozen holiday homes that make up Antonia’s Pearls. The larger cottages are superb family bases, and there’s a wealth of baby and child equipment available. You’re also just 10 minutes’ drive from the Eden Project and St Austell, or stay put and explore Charlestown’s sheltered beach and rock pools.
July and August prices: from £200/night for a 2 bedroom cottage (sleeps 3 + 1 child)
See all of our family-friendly UK hotels with summer availability:
Saturday 3 August for 7 nights
Saturday 10 August for 7 nights
Saturday 17 August for 7 nights
Saturday 24 August for 7 nights
Saturday 31 August for 7 nights
Europe summer availability 2019
1 Almyra, Cyprus
We challenge any family not to have a great holiday at Almyra. The unpretentious design hotel in sunny Paphos offers a raft of kid-friendly activities including 4 pools, a kids’ club, a playground, watersports and a tennis court. Caring staff are on hand for your every need, and the ‘Baby Go Lightly’ service allows parents to pre-order every conceivable baby item you might need.
July and August prices: from £209/night for a double or twin room (sleeps up to 3)
2 Elivi Skiathos, Greece
On a pine-covered headland in southwest Skiathos, Elivi is a seriously stylish family escape. Four of the island’s most beautiful beaches are on your doorstep (guests get free use of loungers and umbrellas) and sporty kids will love the watersports, tennis and basketball courts. There’s a kids club and children’s menu too.
July and August prices: from £252/night for a double room (sleeps up to 3)
3 Finca de Arrieta, Lanzarote
Fans of quirky accommodation should look no further than Finca de Arrieta. The cluster of Mongolian yurts and volcanic stone cottages boast comfortable beds, Balinese furniture, hot showers and fully equipped kitchens – yet they’re completely powered by wind and solar energy. Kids will be in their element too: there’s a trampoline, pool and playground to keep them occupied, plus a weekly poolside movie night. Best of all? You’re 35 minutes’ drive from the airport, and 300m from a sandy, family beach.
July and August prices: from £124/night for an Eco Palm Yurt (sleeps up to 4)
4 Monaci del Terre Nerre, Sicily
On the slopes of Mount Etna, with views stretching to the Ionian Sea, this 18th-century estate has been transformed into a classy and intimate hotel that’s perfect for families. At 500m above sea level, it’s a touch cooler than it is elsewhere in Sicily during sweltering summer. There’s an 18m infinity pool, 40 acres of gorgeous grounds and a kids playground on site.
July and August prices: from £427/night for a suite (sleeps up to 4 + 1 baby)
See all of our family-friendly European hotels with summer availability:
Saturday 3 August for 7 nights
Saturday 10 August for 7 nights
Saturday 17 August for 7 nights
Saturday 24 August for 7 nights
Saturday 31 August for 7 nights
See all of our family friendly hotels and rentals