From the Gothic cathedrals of Italy to the rolling hills of Austria, Europe is a continent characterised by its sublime beauty. Enjoy a luxury holiday to Europe and you can step foot inside some of the most iconic buildings in the world, marvel at snow-capped mountains, explore remote islands, and sample some of the best-loved regional cuisines.
Many UK tourists don’t want to venture outside of Europe for their family holidays, and we know that short flight times will always be appealing to those travelling with very young children. For this reason, we have hand-picked some truly wonderful family hotels to include in this section, from all- encompassing luxury resorts in Greece and Cyprus to thrilling exclusive hotels in Spain, Italy and Portugal. You are certain to find exactly what you are looking for right here with Destinology – experts in luxury travel and providers of bespoke holidays for a wide variety of holidaymakers.
‘Michelin Star Dining Bordering The Atlantic’
From terracotta terraces to manicured golfing greens, The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife, Abama lives up to its prestigious brand name. You'll see views of the Atlantic and nearby La Gomera Island. The property has a choice of nine restaurants, one with two Michelin stars. In the leisure section you'll find three swimming pools for Citadel guests, with another four reserved for villa guests. A spa with ten treatment rooms and a gym is also available, alongside live entertainment and the Ritz Kids' Club with a huge variety of activities. For golfers, there's an 18-hole course designed by former Ryder Cup pro, Dave Thomas.
‘Michelin Starred Dining'
Bahia Del Duque is a cliff-side resort which is spread across 14 acres of vegetation overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It takes much of the inspiration for its accommodation and hotel architecture from traditional Canary Island and colonial design. The 289 rooms and 58 suites are housed in either the main hotel area or the Casas Ducales, a space that offers its own independent check-ins and butler service. Guest rooms and suites have an open-plan feel, complete with modern and useful amenities. The 40 villas are great for families or big groups of friends. There are a variety of restaurants and bars and there are many activities including water sports and land sports.
'A Bright and Contemporary Residence on the Tenerife Coast'
Find a tranquil stay by the sea in Tenerife at the five-star Tivoli La Caleta (formerly Sheraton La Caleta Resort and Spa). The hotel can be found on the Costa Adeje surrounded by lush gardens. 284 guest rooms are newly decorated and have modern amenities, providing guests with a soothing place to unwind after a day enjoying the grounds. Three outdoor swimming pools provide a refreshing break from the Spanish sun. The hotel’s vast Anantara Spa also mirrors the serenity of the wider resort, with steam baths and plunge pools that promise to leave all who visit feeling refreshed, alongside the invigorating Tivoli Shape fitness centre. At the four on site restaurants guests can sample a wide range of Asian and Mediterranean cuisines, or they can relax and sip cocktails at the beach club.
'Nearby Golf and Tranquil Ocean Views’
Surrounded by gardens, the Annabelle luxury hotel is a part of the Thanos Hotel Group. The hotel features sea or garden view rooms and suites with private balconies or terraces. It is the closest hotel to Paphos Castle and harbour bringing great views and easy day trips right to your doorstep. You will find a good selection of restaurants and a variety of sports including golf plus a full activity programme in high season.
‘Wonderful Seafront Location and Stunning Suites’
Residing on its own private beach next to the ancient Tomb of the Kings, Elysium Paphos is suitable for both families and couples. The resort has eight dining venues and bars, each one serving something different, from Pan-Asian cuisine to Mediterranean classics. Accommodation includes spacious rooms and large suites with balconies and terraces and there are plenty of pools at the hotel for both adults and children to enjoy. Relax at the spa, or enjoy a spot of tennis, while the kids soak up the fun at the kids’ club.
‘Surrounded by Beaches and Mount Athos’
Eagles Palace is situated just four kilometres from Ouranoupolis, one of the most scenic villages in Greece. It lies on a glorious stretch of private golden beach in the shadow of Mount Athos occupying one of the most sought after locations on the coast. There is a wide choice of activities including water sports, cycling, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and on-site there is a spa and gym. For children, there is an outdoor pool, playground and kid’s clubs. Accommodations include rooms, bungalows and suites, many of which feature private terraces and pools. You’ll find bars and clubs offering live music and traditional Greek restaurants serving fresh, local seafood.
‘Private Beach Deck, Activities and Sports for All’
MarBella, Mar-Bella Collection is set in landscaped gardens on the south-east coastline of Corfu. It is perfectly plotted close by to both Corfu Old Town and the airport. Rooms and suites all benefit from stunning views of the resort gardens or the twinkling Ionian Sea. Guests can enjoy the sandy beach deck overlooking the ocean or the expanse of private pebble beach near to the water sports area. There are 5 restaurants and 6 bars to choose from, including dishes from Mediterranean cuisines. Select Premium All Inclusive to really elevate your experience and sample the luxury of the resort. The resort is perfect for families with the dedicated kid’s club and the new Anemelia Aqua Park. The first of its kind at a Corfu 5* hotel, it has eight slides perfect for hours of family enjoyment. You can also try the spa for days of relaxation and serenity.
'Lazy rivers, evening entertainment and an indoor kids club'
Visiting historical monuments and travelling to geographical landmarks are great, but if your idea of a perfect holiday is relaxing by the pool and making the most of your resort, then Olympic Lagoon Ayia Napa is the place for you. Proudly home to six pools, a lazy river and a semi-Olympic sized indoor pool with whirlpools, this resort is an aquaphile's dream. You can make memories with or without the kids with Olympic Lagoon's kids club and football academy. If you can prise yourselves from the sun loungers for an afternoon then Landa Beach is just a short walk away, with a water park a little further ahead. Olympic Lagoon Resort is the ultimate family resort.
‘Subtropical Gardens, Adult-Only, Views over Palma Bay’
Castillo Hotel Son Vida is located high above Palma de Mallorca in the 13th-century estate of Son Vida. It's nestled in subtropical parkland with views over Palma Bay. Some rooms and suites have been designed by the famous Spanish designer, LOEWE and some also feature private pools. A healthy selection of dining options are on offer, including traditional Spanish cuisine and creative, modern tapas. An on-site spa, gym, and refreshing swimming pool are at guests' disposal, and the hotel itself is reserved for guests aged 16 and upwards. One of the standout details of the hotel is its close proximity to a range of fantastic golf courses, which can be used at preferential rates established by the hotel.