We’ve taken the stress out of choosing a destination by finding seven locations which have plenty to please kids, grown-ups, and the young-at-heart. Happy holidays!
1. Crete, Greece
A popular holiday destination, Crete is loved for its clean beaches, clear waters, and sunny summer weather. There should be something to please everyone here, whether you can’t sit still for a minute — why not try your hand at watersports like paddle surfing and scuba diving? — or want to enjoy the rich culture and history of this country. The ancient palace in Knossos is certainly worth a visit, while the old town, Chania is home to a charming lighthouse and glass-bottomed boat rides. Explore the areas by hiring a car. Visit rental-center-crete.com for a quote.
After all the activity has left your brood feeling hungry, it won’t be hard to find a taverna serving tasty, traditional Greek food like gyros (roast meat sandwiches), fresh fish, and barrel-aged feta cheese. Click here for a list of 11 delicious Greek dishes to look out for while you’re away.
(Photo by Dawid Zawiła on Unsplash)
2. Porto, Portugal
This up-and-coming European city break destination has lots for families to enjoy and is yet to fall victim to the manic summer-holiday rush, so you’ll have space to explore everything Porto has to offer.
This up-and-coming European city break destination has lots for families to enjoy and is yet to fall victim to the manic summer-holiday rush, so you’ll have space to explore everything Porto has to offer.
Stroll around the beautiful Crystal Palace Gardens, which are free to enter and home to a large variety of trees, plants, and flowers, not to mention some brightly-coloured peacocks, then make your way to the World of Discoveries. This interactive museum and theme park takes visitors on a reconstruction of the journey made by Portuguese explorers, complete with a boat ride and staff in period costume.
If your family holiday isn’t complete without a swim, then take your pick from Porto’s outdoor pools, or head to one of the Atlantic-facing beach resorts nearby, which are only a short train ride away.
3. Dorset, England
Dorset’s shores are famous for their beauty, with the Jurassic Coast named as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Outdoorsy families will love the camping options, while those who prefer a few home-away-from-home comforts will enjoy staying in a cosy cottage.
Dorset’s shores are famous for their beauty, with the Jurassic Coast named as a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Outdoorsy families will love the camping options, while those who prefer a few home-away-from-home comforts will enjoy staying in a cosy cottage.
No matter what your preferences are, you’ll have fun exploring all the beaches and walking trails together. Lulworth Cove is very accessible, with lots of rockpools to investigate, and Durdle Door, a naturally formed limestone arch, is a must-see.
Weymouth is also worth a visit, with a treasure trail for the children and a sand park filled with impressive sculptures that change yearly — 2018’s theme is TV and film.
(Photo by Matt Holland on Unsplash)
4. Canberra, Australia
Who said family holidays can’t be cultural? In Australia’s laidback capital, Canberra, you’ll be spoilt for choice, with lots of attractions tailored to both children and grown-ups. Landmarks like the National Gallery of Australia and Old Parliament House have trails for kids (Portrait Detective and Super Sleuth respectively), and you can even follow an Aboriginal food trail at the Australian National Botanic Gardens.
Sports enthusiasts of all ages will happily spend hours at the Australian Institute of Sport, where a behind-the-scenes tour gives you an insight into daily life and training and get answers from top athletes. There’s also an interactive exhibit where you can test your reaction times, strength and flexibility.
Families with older children may choose to venture into the Australian wild on a bush walk. Always make sure you notify someone where you’re going and when you expect to be back, so they can alert the authorities if you don’t return. (Visit 1Cover for more bushwalking safety tips.)
5. Tenby, Wales
For a traditional seaside holiday, you can’t beat Tenby. There are three sandy beaches for families to choose from, so you won’t struggle to find a spot to build sandcastles or eat homemade Welsh ice cream. Explore the town on the self-guided mystery treasure trail, a circular walk with plenty of clues for you to hunt out, plus some of the best scenery in Tenby.
Wet weather? No worries. Take a step back in time as you explore the Tudor merchant’s house, which is decorated in 16th century style, then learn more about Tenby’s history at the local museum and art gallery, where interactive exhibits, quizzes and dress-up games will keep kids occupied for hours. Active families will love the indoor climbing centre on Castle Beach, where there are walls for all levels of experience.
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