Watersports, biking and island escapes: readers’ favourite family holidays

Their accommodation, a family-focused apartment discovered through Airbnb, was strategically located, allowing for a leisurely 15-minute stroll to the picturesque lakeside, dotted with inviting restaurants and vibrant gelaterias. The gentle pace of life here instantly charmed them, setting the tone for a relaxed yet adventurous holiday. Among the culinary delights, Gelateria la Romana received a special mention for its exquisite, artisanal ice-cream – a quintessential Italian experience that proved to be a daily highlight. The joy of savouring authentic gelato, with its rich flavours and creamy texture, is often a simple pleasure that defines an Italian summer holiday for families.

Beyond the charming streets of Peschiera, their adventures extended across the sparkling waters of Lake Garda. A highlight was undoubtedly the boat trip to Sirmione, a captivating old town perched dramatically on a narrow peninsula. Sirmione is famed not only for its stunning Scaliger Castle, which guards the entrance to the town, but also for its ancient Roman ruins, the Grotte di Catullo, and its therapeutic thermal springs. The Aquaria Thermal Spa, with its warm, mineral-rich waters, offers a luxurious and rejuvenating experience, contrasting beautifully with the historical grandeur of the site. The journey by boat provided breathtaking panoramic views of the lake and its dramatic surroundings, adding an extra layer of magic to the excursion.

Further up the lake, the picturesque village of Malcesine beckoned. With its medieval Castello Scaligero overlooking the water and charming cobblestone alleys, Malcesine exudes an undeniable old-world charm. From here, the family ascended Monte Baldo via a modern cable car, a journey that itself offers spectacular vistas. At the summit, they were treated to unparalleled views stretching across the entire lake, the rolling hills, and even the distant peaks of the Dolomites. It’s a prime spot for watching paragliders launch into the clear blue sky, adding an exhilarating dimension to the already stunning landscape, and offering opportunities for hiking and enjoying the crisp mountain air. Alex’s account of Lake Garda underscores how a well-chosen base and a mix of cultural, culinary, and adventurous activities can forge truly unforgettable family memories.

Scandi Simplicity in the Åland Islands: An Unsung Baltic Gem

Shifting focus from the Mediterranean charm of Italy to the serene beauty of the Baltic Sea, Martha Fogg shared her family’s discovery of the Åland Islands, an unsung and surprisingly sunny gem nestled between Sweden and Finland. This autonomous, demilitarized, Swedish-speaking archipelago, while politically part of Finland, offers a unique blend of Scandinavian culture and pristine nature. It proved to be the perfect antidote to crowded tourist hotspots for Martha, her baby, and toddler.

Their stay in one of the many simple yet comfortable woodland cabins epitomized Scandi simplicity, providing a private sanctuary complete with its own beach, boat, sauna, and barbecue facilities. Such self-catering arrangements are ideal for families seeking both privacy and the freedom to set their own pace, fostering a deep connection with the tranquil surroundings of rocky islets, pine forests, and traditional red wooden houses. The emphasis here is on ‘getting back to nature’ – kayaking through sheltered coves, cycling along quiet coastal paths, fishing in the abundant waters, or simply enjoying unhurried moments on a private sandy stretch.

The pint-sized capital, Mariehamn, with its population of under 12,000, proved to be effortlessly navigable with young children. Far from a bustling metropolis, it retains the charm of a market town, offering a gentle introduction to Ålandic life. Visitors can explore its maritime history at the Åland Maritime Museum or admire the majestic four-masted barque Pommern, a living monument to the islands’ seafaring heritage. While Martha notes a lack of conventional "attractions," this absence is precisely its appeal. The Åland Islands cater to those who yearn for peace, quiet, and genuine family time, unburdened by schedules or commercial distractions. It’s a place where the rhythm of nature dictates the day, allowing families to reconnect and create simple, profound memories. Cabins and ferry services, connecting the islands to both Sweden and Finland, can be conveniently booked through visitaland.com, making this tranquil escape surprisingly accessible.

Something for All Generations in Brittany: A French Coastal Retreat

For families spanning multiple generations, finding a holiday destination that caters to everyone’s desires can be a delicate balancing act. Peter, however, struck gold in Brittany, France, orchestrating a memorable summer trip for eight family members across four generations. Opting for a campervan journey from Portsmouth to Saint-Malo, they discovered an affordable and fun way to transport a large group, making the ferry crossing an integral part of the adventure.

Their chosen destination was Bénodet, a charming coastal resort located at the mouth of the Odet River. Peter highlights its ideal climate: "warmer than Cornwall but not as stiflingly hot as the Med," ensuring both the kids remained cheerful and the grandparents comfortable. This temperate climate is a significant draw for families, offering pleasant conditions for outdoor activities without the intensity of extreme heat.

The heart of their stay was the Port de Plaisance campsite, a prime example of the high-quality, amenity-rich campsites popular across France. This resort-style campground boasted an array of facilities designed for multi-generational enjoyment: exhilarating water slides and natural swimming pools for the younger crowd, various sports pitches, and nightly karaoke sessions where parents could, as Peter humorously notes, "embarrass themselves." Meanwhile, Grandma found her competitive spirit, engaging in spirited games of pétanque with the locals, showcasing the campsite’s ability to foster social interaction across age groups.

Beyond the campsite, Bénodet’s sandy beaches, supervised by lifeguards, offered safe and inviting spaces for sunbathing, swimming, family picnics, and leisurely walks along the picturesque coastline. Brittany itself is a region steeped in Celtic heritage, renowned for its dramatic pink granite coastlines, charming fishing villages, and delicious local cuisine, including savoury galettes and sweet crêpes. Peter’s experience in Bénodet beautifully illustrates how the right combination of accommodation, activities, and a welcoming environment can create a truly inclusive and enjoyable holiday for every member of an extended family.

The Tranquil Charm of Menorca: Embracing "Nothing to Do"

In a world obsessed with packed itineraries and endless attractions, Kieran found an unexpected haven in Es Grau, Menorca, where the very lack of structured activities became its greatest asset. A friend’s playful warning – "there was nothing to do" – turned out to be the ultimate endorsement for a truly relaxing family escape on this Balearic island. Menorca, designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, prides itself on its pristine natural beauty, protected landscapes, and a wonderfully slow pace of life, standing in gentle contrast to its more boisterous neighbours.

Es Grau, a charming, whitewashed fishing village nestled within the Parc Natural de s’Albufera des Grau, embodies this ethos perfectly. It’s a place where the gentle lapping of the waves and the quiet hum of local life replace the clamour of commercial tourism. By day two, Kieran’s family had seamlessly integrated into the village’s unhurried routine, discovering the profound joys of simple, organic activities.

Their days were filled with invigorating kayaking adventures in the protected bay, exploring the nearby s’Illa d’en Colom (an uninhabited island), and indulging in refreshing sea swims in the shallow, crystal-clear waters, ideal for children. The municipal pitch became the impromptu arena for lively soccer games with the kids, fostering community spirit and spontaneous fun. While they had initially hired a car, it largely remained unused, a testament to Es Grau’s self-contained charm and the family’s newfound appreciation for local exploration on foot or by water.

Menorca’s commitment to sustainable tourism means that its natural beauty remains largely unspoiled, offering endless opportunities for hiking along the Cami de Cavalls coastal path, discovering hidden coves, and simply soaking in the serene atmosphere. Kieran’s experience highlights a valuable lesson in family travel: sometimes, the most enriching holidays are those where you shed the pressure to "do" and instead embrace the freedom to simply "be," allowing for genuine relaxation and deeper connection with both nature and each other.

A Devon Dinghy Holiday: Sailing Towards Lifelong Skills

For David Innes-Wilkin, family holidays were not just about relaxation but about imparting invaluable life skills through the exhilarating world of sailing. His children’s formative teenage years were spent in Salcombe, Devon, a picturesque estuary town renowned as a sailing mecca in South Hams. Here, they embarked on dinghy courses that laid the foundation for a lifetime of maritime adventure and personal growth.

Sailing, as David rightly points out, is a "fantastic and diverse sport" that teaches far more than just how to handle a boat. It instills crucial qualities like teamwork, problem-solving, resilience, and an intimate understanding of natural elements. The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) certified courses offered in Salcombe provide a structured yet thrilling environment for young people to develop these skills. From mastering basic knots to navigating unpredictable tides and winds, each lesson builds confidence and fosters a sense of achievement.

David’s children embraced these summer courses with such enthusiasm that they not only returned year after year but eventually graduated to Royal Yachting Association instructor level, a significant accomplishment that speaks volumes about their dedication and the quality of their training. This progression from student to mentor equipped them with leadership skills and a deeper mastery of their craft. The ultimate testament to the profound impact of these holidays came later in life: both children went on to become Atlantic sailors, tackling the formidable challenges of ocean crossings.

Beyond the impressive personal achievements, the shared experience of sailing created an unbreakable bond within the family. David cherished the opportunity to sail alongside his children, witnessing their growth and sharing in their passion. This type of active, skill-building holiday, particularly in a stunning UK location like Salcombe, offers a unique blend of adventure, education, and family togetherness, proving that "tenacity and perseverance in all weather are qualities that other family adventures can’t touch."

Zipping Around in Pembrokeshire: A Free-Range Resort Experience

Abby Samuel’s family found their ideal adventure playground at Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire, Wales. This unique "free-range" resort, set within the stunning landscapes of Wales’ only coastal national park, offers a compelling mix of outdoor excitement and indoor comfort, making it a firm favourite for families with young children. Abby’s trip in May, where they secured a four-bedroom lodge for four nights at an impressive £540, demonstrates the resort’s value proposition for family holidays.

Bluestone is designed to immerse families in nature while providing a wealth of activities and amenities. The resort boasts a brilliant pool, the Blue Lagoon Water Park, with its slides and wave machine, ensuring aquatic fun regardless of the weather. The "free-range" concept encourages exploration and active play, with a diverse range of indoor and outdoor fun available. For Abby’s two young boys, highlights included exhilarating zip lines, guided e-biking through the picturesque woods, and extensive forest walks that allowed them to connect with the natural environment. The resort also offers soft play areas for younger guests and a vast indoor Adventure Centre, ensuring entertainment in all conditions.

A distinctive feature of Bluestone, and one that adds to the fun and convenience, is the use of golf buggies. Families can hire these to whizz between their well-maintained lodges and the various activities and amenities spread across the extensive resort. This car-free environment within the main resort area enhances safety for children and adds an element of playful adventure to getting around. Pembrokeshire itself is celebrated for its dramatic coastline, award-winning beaches, and abundant wildlife, offering further opportunities for exploration beyond the resort’s boundaries. Abby’s experience at Bluestone perfectly illustrates how a thoughtfully designed resort can cater to the energetic demands of young families, providing a stimulating and memorable holiday in a beautiful natural setting.

Winning Tip: Family Heaven in the Netherlands

Crowned as the winning tip, Morag’s account of family holidays in the Netherlands paints a vivid picture of a destination with "impeccable family-friendly credentials." This flat, accessible country, renowned for its safety and efficient infrastructure, truly excels at catering to families, offering a delightful blend of interactive museums, expansive playgrounds, and charming city experiences.

Their adventure began in The Hague at Madurodam, a miniature version of the Netherlands that captivated her young family. This incredibly detailed park allows visitors to explore famous Dutch landmarks, cities, and landscapes in miniature, with numerous interactive buttons for tiny fingers to operate bridges, steer trucks, and launch boats. It’s an ingenious way to tour the entire country in a day, offering both entertainment and an engaging educational experience.

The journey continued to Utrecht, home to the country’s best railway museum, Het Spoorwegmuseum. Far from a staid collection of artifacts, this museum is a dynamic and immersive experience. It features a thrilling VR train ride that transports visitors through time, an actual rollercoaster known as "The Steel Monster," and an impressive collection of vintage trains. The blend of historical exhibits and modern interactive attractions ensures that visitors of all ages are entertained and educated about the fascinating world of rail travel.

The grand finale of their trip was a visit to Linnaeushof, near Haarlem, proudly holding the title of one of Europe’s largest playgrounds. This sprawling outdoor wonderland is dedicated to active play, featuring hundreds of unique, self-powered rides and slides. It’s a place where children are encouraged to use their own energy and creativity, offering a refreshing alternative to electronically driven attractions.

Beyond these specific highlights, Morag cherished the simple joys of navigating Dutch cities via their efficient tram systems and indulging in the culinary delight of pancake restaurants (pannenkoeken), a staple of Dutch family dining. The combination of excellent attractions, ease of travel, and a welcoming atmosphere solidified the Netherlands as "family heaven," offering a diverse array of experiences that cater to every member of the family and promising truly unforgettable moments.

These diverse recommendations from our readers underscore a shared truth: the most cherished family holidays are those that foster connection, discovery, and a sense of shared adventure, whether amidst the stunning lakes of Italy, the tranquil archipelagos of Finland, the rugged coasts of France and Wales, the pristine bays of Menorca, or the interactive wonders of the Netherlands. Each destination, unique in its offerings, provides a canvas for families to paint their own unforgettable memories.