My Top 7 Family Holiday Destinations

The best-known antidote for the winter blues is a dream-worthy holiday to look forward to. These top seven family holiday destinations showcase the magic of Mexico, Turkish charm, the charismatic Canary Islands, Croatia, stunning Mauritius, the Algarve and Egypt. These handpicked gems are so irresistible that you might have a hard time deciding where to go!

1. Take a Mexican adventure

The Telegraph recently listed Mexico as one of the top two standout destinations for 2019 and, at the more affordable end of long-haul regions, it tops this list thanks to its sunny climes and opportunities for adventure. The all-inclusive resorts in bustling Cancun are a haven for families. There are fantastic beaches, water sports, child-friendly museums and Xcaret, an exciting theme park.

If you want to swim with tropical fish, Riviera Maya is home to one of the largest barrier reefs in the world. And a trip to Mexico wouldn’t be complete with a visit to Chichen Itza, where the whole family can explore the ancient Mayan temples.

2. Discover sun, spice and all things nice in Turkey

In terms of affordability, Turkey is a great choice for families looking to enjoy ample sun, sea and sand. A land with a rich cultural heritage, Turkey is home to ancient ruins, spice bazaars and cosmopolitan towns.

In Antalya, along Turkey’s exquisite Turquoise Coast, families will enjoy the relaxing beach scene with its option of high-octane water sports. Or take a dip in the famous Blue Lagoon in Olu Deniz, Dalaman. Bodrum and Izmir are also popular, featuring thrilling water parks and a wide variety of family resorts and hotels. Turkey is a hotspot for adventure sports, including rock climbing, paragliding and canyoning.

3. Conquer the Canary Islands

A delightful short-haul destination, this location is home to a variety of islands, all boasting a tropical climate, superb beaches, water parks and family-oriented activities.

Whichever island takes your fancy, each one is packed with things to do. Take the kids on a marine safari or tour a banana plantation in Tenerife. In Gran Canaria, you can explore the Wild West at high noon in Sioux City, a replica town that is also home to a zoo. Family holidays to Lanzarote should include a trip to Timanfaya National Park, where volcanoes are waiting to be explored.

4. Find your Balkan bliss in Croatia

Croatia is a short-haul delight, and it’s a popular choice with families who are looking for a dose of education to accompany their family fun. With a mix of Roman, Venetian and Byzantine history, the country itself is like a museum.

The Makarska Riviera and Istria are two areas favoured by families. Historical sites in The Makarska Riviera include Diocletian’s Palace and the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Dubrovnik, which can be explored by foot or from above by cable car. In Istria, the Pula Arena is the perfect place to imagine the gladiators in battle at one of the largest Roman amphitheatres in the world.

5. Make memories in sunny Mauritius

This family-friendly island has beautiful, tropical beaches, and welcomes children with open arms. Almost every resort has a dedicated kids’ club with activities for all ages. There’s lots to do, from snorkelling in the shimmering waters to taking glass-bottom boat trips and zip-lining.
The Blue Safari submarine experience will delight with an underwater seascape of coral reefs and tropical fish. The capital of the island, Port Louis, is a hive of activity where you can explore markets, shopping malls and local history museums.

6. Escape to the Algarve in Portugal

The Algarve in Portugal has been a family favourite for decades. Families flock here for the iconic black, sandy beaches and warm year-round climate. Vilamoura and Quarteira are all about the beaches, but there’s also plenty to do.
Hop on a Segway and drink in the view of the ocean as you whizz along dedicated coastal paths, or take a scenic boat cruise along the Algarve coast for a spot of dolphin-watching.

7. Unearth the ancient wonders of Egypt

At the mention of pyramids, Pharaohs and mummies, your kids will be sold on a holiday to Egypt, but this enigmatic destination offers a lot more than that. Family holidays to Egypt include sandy beaches, top family-friendly resorts, museums and plenty of action. The gorgeous resorts in Marsa Alam and Sharm El Sheikh offer easy access to swimming, snorkelling and diving in the Red Sea. Set sail on the River Nile or experience a camel ride to the base of the Great Pyramid. Camping in the White Desert is highly recommended; the view of the glittering stars at night will be one to treasure.

Every family is unique, which is why this selection covers a variety of intriguing places to visit with your nearest and dearest. All that’s left to do is pick your favourite, pack your bags and say ‘Bon Voyage!’ as you make some life-long memories.

 

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