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Best Family Holidays for Every School Holiday: Reviews & Where to Book

Searching for the best family holidays for school breaks, backed by genuine first-hand experience? Welcome – you’re exactly where you need to be. School holidays come with peak-season price tags, so when you’re investing your hard-earned money, you deserve total confidence that it’s going to deliver. That’s where we come in. We can’t swoop in to change nappies, referee sibling seat wars or pace the aisle with your wide-awake toddler – but we can make sure that when you land, it’s all worth it. Whether you’re dreaming of a cocktails-on-tap all-inclusive, a quietly cool boutique bolthole, a ski hotel that truly understands families, or a UK staycation that feels like a treat rather than a compromise, we’ve done the legwork (and the long-haul flights) for you. Tiny Travelship is powered by travel experts who are also mums, juggling children of different ages and budgets – and every hotel in this round-up comes from our own first-hand school holiday trips, places we’ve tried, tested and would book again in a heartbeat

Words by Frankie Collinson, Becky Pennison-Bates & Morag Turner

Where To Book For A Family Holiday In February Half Term

AKI Family Resort Plose, Italy 

If you’re dreaming of a snowglobe-worthy getaway, the newly opened AKI Family Resort Plose is one to book now for next year. I’ve just returned from a long weekend there with my two-year-old, and I honestly cannot recommend it enough. Whether you love skiing or just want a stunning grown-up escape, this place delivers. For the tiniest travellers, the hotel runs complimentary ski lessons right on a magic carpet in the grounds – or if your little ones are more ambitious, proper week-long lessons are available just seven minutes away at Plose resort

Foodies, listen up: the full-board dining is both delicious and still leaves you feeling light and satisfied. And childcare? Absolutely next-level. Free for babies from just one month old, running 9am–9pm with no reservations required, in rooms that look like the role-play villages you’d happily pay £££ to visit. The pools are unbelievably warm, complete with a trio of flumes and a splash pad I had to practically drag my daughter out of

Honestly, if you’re a sleep-deprived parent secretly fantasising about a spa escape but can’t leave the kids behind, this is it. AKI Family Resort Plose somehow pulls off the impossible: the little ones have the time of their lives, and the adults leave genuinely rested – something I can personally attest to

Visited & Verified by mama Frankie, with a 2-year-old Tiny Traveller 

Barcelo Palmeraie, Marrakech

I’m the first to admit my February half term wish list was… ambitious. Sunshine without long haul flights (it was Toby’s first holiday, aged 4 months, so I didn’t want to push my luck), *properly* heated pools but with sights too (somewhere that felt deliciously different from home), baby and pre-schooler approved – while also not causing my fragile bank account to collapse completely

After many (many) hours of research, we landed on Barceló Palmeraie, and honestly, it delivered in spades. The headline act was the pool. Genuinely warm, with a genius sloping entry where we could sit with Toby between our legs, plus a separate shallow splash pool Maggie could run riot in. There is a kids’ club too (admittedly we didn’t drop her off due to the language barrier) but we happily made use of the pedal karts & track and big trampoline all together (plus there’s a huge enclosure of peacocks to say hi to). Elsewhere you’ll find pedalos on a lake, a mini golf course and tonnes of tennis, but my personal highlight was the desert right outside the hotel door. One minute you’re in your room, the next you’re clambering over dunes feeling gloriously middle-of-nowhere (with sand as far as you can see) –  though in reality? You’re all of 30 seconds from the resort

Taxis with car seats were effortlessly arranged whenever we fancied dipping into the medina, and while buffet dining can divide opinion, this one won us over, with fragrant tagines for us and plenty of pasta for the kids. Best of all? Four nights were under £1k (including flights) which in my book, is really rather good (it isn’t what I’d label luxury but a solid 4* in my opinion, and the grounds in particular were really pretty!)

Visited & Verified by Mama Becky, with 4 and 4-month-old Tiny Travellers  

Jumeirah Al Naseem, Dubai 

I stayed at Jumeirah Al Naseem at the end of January, (but it would be perfect for Feb half term). I’d describe the overall vibe as modern, luxurious, and effortlessly relaxing. The resort is exceptionally family-friendly: the kids’ club is spacious with a huge outdoor area, plus green spaces perfect for games, snakes and ladders, ping pong, and giant chess – my high-energy boys were in total heaven

But honestly, the highlight for us was the beach and pool. Calm, crystal-clear water, endless sandy stretches, and sunsets that make every evening feel magical. The pool area is enormous, with a separate kids’ pool and, next door, Wild Wadi Waterpark (complimentary for guests)

And the food? Incredible. A double digit number of restaurants to choose from, all consistently delicious – as my husband will attest I’m notoriously picky, and I couldn’t fault a single meal. Despite the resort’s size, everything was easy to get to: pool, beach, restaurants, kids’ club – it all felt seamless

Visited & Verified by Mama Ally, with 2 and 4-year-old Tiny Travellers 

Thinking of booking? Tiny Travel Agency matches direct prices and helps you score exclusive perks. We’ll also secure your dining reservations and childcare in advance – completely free – so you don’t miss out on the most in-demand spots

Where To Book For A Family Holiday In Easter Half Term

Carlisle Bay, Antigua 

I visited Carlisle Bay in Antigua a few years ago, when I only had one Tiny Traveller and my little boy was just 11 months old. If your babe is teetering on the edge of toddlerhood, this is honestly a perfect pick. Let’s start with the journey. A nine-hour direct flight, a quick car transfer, and suddenly we were poolside with a cocktail in hand – all by mid-afternoon

This was the first all-inclusive I’d stayed in since my teenage years, and while I braced myself for cabin-fever chaos, Carlisle Bay is nothing like the all-inclusives of my memories. The a la carte menus rival anything you’d find locally on the island, plus Japanese fusion, wood-fired pizza, and oh-so-delicious Piña Coladas felt completely guilt-free when there was no bill at check out to stress over. At just under 1, my little guy hated the car seat, so having everything under one roof was the highest level of luxury I could imagine

There’s a Kids Club for 2+, which we didn’t use personally, but we did love splashing around in the baby pool just out front. The main pool is brilliant for little swimmers, with a shallow shelf that runs along the side. And the beach? This is my go-to happy place in my head whenever I need to decompress: sugar-soft sands, calm, safe waters where Oscar could crawl around while we supervised from a sunlounger (cocktail in hand, obviously), and even a resident turtle

Visited & Verified by mama Frankie, with a 11-month-old Tiny Traveller 

Ready to reserve? Use Tiny Travel Agency and pay the same rates as booking direct, plus gain access to added benefits. Plus we can unlock  $100 hotel credit to spend in resort as you wish! 

Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius

Mauritius is a destination that truly grows with your family. My first trip there with children was when my boys were six, four and just 11 weeks old. It couldn’t have been an easier place to visit with little ones – night flight, calm beaches, short airport transfers and hotels that genuinely understand family travel

We’ve returned three times since, most recently last Easter when we stayed at the newly renovated Shangri-La Le Touessrok on the east coast of the island. By then, my boys were 17, 14 and 10 – and we had just as wonderful a time as we did all those years ago

I chose the Shangri-La this time because it offers so much for older children and teens. My kids’ club days are long gone, but trust me when I say teenagers need just as much entertaining – just in very different ways. Buckets and spades have been replaced by tennis rackets, golf clubs and diving gear

Now I look for hotels that offer excellent sports facilities, fishing trips, snorkelling excursions and plenty of water activities, alongside those beautiful beaches. An all-you-can-eat breakfast buffet is also non-negotiable with teenagers – it never ceases to amaze me how much food they can consume in one sitting! Thankfully, Shangri-La absolutely delivered

With its stunning location, endless activities, fantastic interconnecting suites and top-notch dining across four distinct restaurants, it’s a true five-star escape. Mauritius proves that the right destination – and the right hotel – can evolve beautifully alongside your family

Visited & Verified by Mama Morag, with a 10, 14 and 17-year-old (not-so) Tiny Travellers 

Dell of Abernethy, Scotland

Our Easter break to Dell of Abernethy last year was truly one of those trips that quietly spoils everywhere else for you. Our cottage, nestled in the Highlands, was cosy and quirky with retro 60s vibes and a roaring fire & record player – though most importantly, it immediately felt like home. There’s even a washing machine, tumble dryer and detergent, which doesn’t sound sexy until you return post-trip with clean clothes and a sense of deep satisfaction

Outside is where Dell really shines. Think pine forests and epic views in every direction, and an outdoor play area for kids that the sprinkling of cottages share – with a trampoline, tree swings, hammocks, a zip wire, stream tightrope, felled logs to climb and endless space for kids to run wild. We ate dinner in the garden one evening, with some sheep as VIP guests – in the golden hour light with the kids giggling, it’s the memory I’ll call upon when I’m 80

The location is unbelievable. Aviemore is close by for thrilling mountain adventures (hiking, biking, or a more scenic steam train trip if you’d prefer to slow the pace), while nearby lochs offer watersports and calm paddling days. We loved Landmark Forest Adventure Park for all-day, all-age fun (there’s everything from climbing walls and tree nets to waterslides and softplay), balanced with beach days at Nairn, Findhorn and along the Moray Coast. The white sand could rival the Maldives – and going at Easter, you’ll beat the midges too 

It’s a place full of nostalgic magic, no trends or trying to hard, just core memories unlocked: BBQs outside, muddy boots by the door, and children feral-happy till dusk, with salty skin and sand between their toes

Visited & Verified by Mama Becky, with 4 and 6-month-old Tiny Travellers

Where To Book For A Family Holiday In May Half Term

Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Cyprus

We treated ourselves to a little dose of luxury last May, staying at Parklane Cyprus – and if you’re a fan of the finer things (wrapped up in a family friendly bow), consider this a top 5 star contender. The beds and linens were outrageously comfortable, the bathrooms felt properly indulgent (huge marble tubs stocked with Byredo, no less), and service was consistently excellent without ever feeling stiff (not to mention, the rooms are gigantic!)

But it was the dining that stole the show. Nammos, down on the beach, wasn’t just one of the best hotel restaurants we’ve eaten at, but one of the best, full stop. The steak instantly became my death row dish, the cocktails were exquisite, and the open air, sand-floor setting made for a low pressure dining experience where the kids could get down and play between courses. Poolside service was equally slick. At times I was convinced someone was reading my mind, as clean towels materialised the second we needed them, and the menu subtly appeared when little tummies rumbled

Catering completely for kids without sacrificing grown-up appeal, the toddler pool is huge, shallow and shaded, the kids’ club (one of Europe’s largest) is impressively organised by age, and there’s a bouncy castle, zip line, pirate ship splash pad and little rope course they can enjoy at their leisure. For bigger kids, tennis, padel & watersports await. Talk about pampering all ages!

Visited & Verified by Mama Becky, with 4 and 8-month-old Tiny Travellers

The Mole Resort, Devon

I absolutely adore North Devon. My boys are all keen surfers, and we’ve spent countless summer days on the beaches at Woolacombe, Croyde and Saunton. With great waves (the area is home to the only World Surfing Reserve in the UK), stunning scenery and plenty of cream teas, it really does tick every box for a classic coastal staycation

A little quieter than its busier neighbour Cornwall, Devon’s beaches are just as beautiful and often far less crowded during peak season. It feels wonderfully unspoilt – wild dunes, dramatic cliffs and long stretches of golden sand

For a stay that combines easy access to the coast with a peaceful rural setting, The Mole Resort is a brilliant choice. It offers a mix of sleek, modern self-catering lodges and cosy traditional cottages, ideal for families. With two, three and four-bedroom options available, there’s plenty of space to spread out. Some properties are dog-friendly, some have hot tubs, and all come with balconies overlooking glorious countryside views – the perfect spot for a glass of wine on a summer’s evening

Set within 40 acres of rolling Devon countryside, the resort offers loads of activities to keep children entertained, from den building and archery to pickleball tournaments and woodland adventures. And if you don’t feel like cooking, the on-site restaurant serves hearty, locally sourced dishes that appeal to adults and children alike – the Sunday lunches are particularly good

North Devon delivers that perfect balance of surf, scenery and time to all hang out on the beach together – and that’s why we return year after year

Visited & Verified by Mama Morag, with a 10, 14 and 16-year-old (not-so) Tiny Travellers 

Amicor Resort, Croatia

Amicor Resort by Valamar instantly reset my expectations of what a family-focused resort can look and feel like. It’s genuinely one of the chicest I’ve ever visited, a world away from shouty primary colours, plastic clutter and interiors frozen in the 90s

It’s the first sustainable family resort on Croatia’s Adriatic, built in harmony with nature using renewable materials and powered entirely by green energy, and you can feel that intention everywhere

Just a short stroll from the historic centre of Stari Grad, the resort feels beautifully connected to its surroundings, from gardens that protect native plants to design details created with local artists and menus built around fresh, seasonal ingredients. Accommodation ranges from clever three-person suites to villas with private pools sleeping up to six, all with their own outdoor space, which makes a huge difference when travelling as a family

The entertainment is just as thoughtfully done: a waterpark with surprisingly tasteful spaghetti slides, with thrills for tots right through to teens, and multiple play areas in the big, bright kids club that you can drop into at your leisure (full of tasteful wooden toys, as well as trampolines, a little climbing wall, games consoles and more). There’s table tennis and football, kids scooters and bikes so they can whizz around instead of walk, an eco garden for budding botanists, more playgrounds than I could count, and an open-air cinema for balmy evenings

While the resort is half board as standard, we loved drifting into Stari Grad for lunch, where stonewashed lanes are lined with tavernas, cool cafés and ancient churches, perfect for slow exploring

Visited & Verified by Mama Becky, with 4 and 8-month-old Tiny Travellers

Where To Book For A Family Holiday In The Summer Holidays

CORFU IMPERIAL – A GRECOTEL RESORT TO LIVE, Corfu 

I visited Corfu Imperial during the school holidays last year, when my little boy had just turned four and my daughter was nearly two, and honestly, it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you’ve left. From the moment we arrived, I could feel my shoulders drop. It’s not an obviously “family-first” resort in the traditional sense – no splash pads, playgrounds or kids’ discos – but it works wonderfully for parents, especially if, like us, you split your stay with a few nights at the sister hotel, GRECOTEL LUXME Costa Botanica, which is home to a fully fledged waterpark and evening entertainment. My eldest Tiny Traveller isn’t the biggest fan of Kids’ Clubs (much to my disappointment), so while we didn’t leave him for full-day stints, the parental stay and play setup at Corfu Imperial was ideal for my velcro-children

Let’s be real: Corfu Imperial is fancy, and the price reflects that. But it’s packed with little perks that make it feel totally worth it. A biggie? Kids eat free on the Dine Club plan. We were on their half-board plan and, honestly, the buffet blew us away – we only skipped it once. As a food lover, it was paradise: fresh salads everywhere, live-carved salmon and lamb, and a menu that changes every night. If you love elevated, design-led resorts like Sani, Daios Cove, or Six Senses, Corfu Imperial deserves a spot at the top of your bucket list

Visited & Verified by mama Frankie, with 1 and 4-year-old Tiny Travellers

Book through Tiny Travel Agency, and you’ll receive direct pricing with enhanced privileges – for Corfu Imperial this means complimentary airport transfers, with age appropriate car seats! 

Chateau Bela, Slovakia

Last summer, we spent a few dreamy days at Chateau Bela (on my eternal quest to find under-the-radar, amazing value hidden gems), and it left us all completely charmed. A sprawling chateau, the likes of which you’d expect to find in the South of France, surprises for kids appeared around every corner and ‘endearingly eclectic’ was the flavour of the stay. One minute you’re wandering through grand gardens, the next you’ve stumbled upon a cinema room, a giant fish pond with koi carp to feed, water fountains, tennis courts, playgrounds & a gorgeous outdoor pool (this quickly became our daily anchor point)

What really stood out, though, was the kids’ club. This was a guilt-free drop-off at its best. The staff didn’t just keep the children busy, they swept them up on proper adventures. Scavenger hunts across the grounds, fish feeding trips, games on the tennis courts and hide and seek in the gardens. Evenings were equally joyful, beckoning balloon animals, face painting and low-key mini discos (giving nostalgic kids party vibes)

Mealtimes deserve their own moment. Think Bridgerton-esque buffets with starched white tablecloths, vegetables carved into roses and towers of ornate cakes. It sounds wildly un-family-friendly, but in reality almost every table had children at it, with not a single raised eyebrow at spills or sticky fingers. Chateau Bela is one royally-inspired escape where kids are the true VIPs (that, crossed with a sleepover in a stately National Trust spot)

Visited & Verified by Mama Becky, with 4 and 10-month-old Tiny Travellers

Ikos Olivia, Greece

Ikos Olivia was my first experience of the much-loved, family-focused brand – and it completely lived up to the hype. I’d recommend it to any parent without hesitation. With its cheaper price tag Olivia often offers the best value within the Ikos collection, especially following its recent glow-up. It’s hard to imagine an easier place to holiday with children

They have absolutely everything you could possibly need for little ones. From bed guards and toddler steps to toilet seats and thoughtful in-room setups, it’s clear they’ve considered every detail. The kids’ club was fantastic for both of my children, with varied daily activities that actually excited them. What stood out most, though, was just how relaxed the entire holiday felt. With children aged one and four, that’s no small thing. The splash pad and shallow pool were pure joy and the layout of the resort is so well thought out too: beach, kids’ club, pools, restaurants – all within easy reach. And having room service included? A total luxury. As a huge foodie, I wasn’t expecting to rave about a buffet – but this one stole the show. Everything was incredibly fresh, beautifully presented, and varied enough that it never felt repetitive. The à la carte restaurants were equally impressive, with Greek, Italian, Asian and French options offering real variety 

Visited & Verified by Mama Ally, with 1 and 4-year-old Tiny Travellers 

Ready to plan your family escape? For Ikos, using our complimentary Tiny Travel Agency concierge service is a no brainer. With so much going on, booking your room is just the beginning – and using Tiny Travel Agency makes sure you don’t miss out when it comes to the childcare, restaurants or experiences either (as these can get booked up)

Where To Book For A Family Holiday In October Half Term

The Ritz-Carlton Tenerife Abama, Tenerife

My little boy started school in September, so this was our first experience of term-time holidays and our first trip away in October. We were desperate for some sunshine, but the thought of a long-haul flight just didn’t appeal. The Ritz-Carlton Abama in Tenerife was the perfect solution, and I’d go back in a heartbeat. I’m still dreaming about the food; honestly, I’ve never eaten better at a hotel. It’s definitely an ultra-luxury escape, but even a long weekend here is totally doable and feels totally indulgent, thanks to the short flights and effortless transfers

We split our stay with a few nights at Las Terrazas de Abama Suites, perched above the main resort, and it worked seamlessly – the hotel even provides complimentary transfers, so logistics are a breeze. I’m not a golfer, but with world-class golf on the doorstep, I still appreciated the views, and the resort never felt like a “golf hotel”—just beautifully serene. I can easily imagine returning with multiple generations; my dad could tee off while my mum unwinds at the spa

For the kids, the heated pools were an absolute hit, and the Ritz Kids Club stay-and-play policy was a total lifesaver. The staff were exceptional, anticipating every need, and the setting – with its pink facades, Moorish details, and sweeping Atlantic views – kept my camera busy from sunrise to sunset. Whether you stay the full week or just squeeze in a few days during October half term, I promise you’ll leave feeling completely refreshed… though I warn you, once you’ve tasted the food here, it’s hard to imagine ever being impressed by another hotel meal again!

Visited & Verified by mama Frankie, with 1 and 4-year-old Tiny Travellers

Watergate Bay Hotel, Cornwall

My family stayed there last year and loved every minute. It offers that winning combination of stylish, family-focused accommodation and endless outdoor activities – all set against one of Cornwall’s most spectacular stretches of sand

The location is unbeatable. Being right on the beach meant we could wander straight out of our room and down for an early swim or surf, then stroll back up to the hotel for a huge, hearty breakfast overlooking the sea. It’s that effortless, barefoot style of holiday that works so well with teenagers

We stayed with our little dog – there are pet-friendly interconnecting family rooms – and the setup was ideal. Plenty of space, easy access to the outdoors and a relaxed, unfussy atmosphere that makes everyone feel at home

Days were spent walking the coast path, playing beach cricket and making the most of the on-site watersports centre, which offers lessons and equipment hire for everything from surfing to paddleboarding. There’s also a dreamy swimming pool with panoramic ocean views – perfect when the sea feels a little wild

The hotel has three excellent restaurants, all welcoming to families. The Beach Hut, right on the sand, was our favourite – laid-back, buzzy and serving food that keeps both teens and adults happy

Watergate Bay nails that classic British seaside escape with the kids – fresh air, salty hair and plenty to keep every age entertained

Visited & Verified by Mama Morag, with a 10, 14 and 17-year-old (not-so) Tiny Travellers 

Watergate Bay

Domes Lake Algarve, Portugal

Looking for a surprisingly sunny October destination in Europe that’s easy to reach, short-haul, and won’t break the bank? Let me introduce you to Domes Lake Algarve 

A few big plus points personally? The weather in October was a dream, a really lovely 25 degrees. And the pool? It’s heated and genuinely warm (and I’m usually a total wimp when it comes to pool temperatures). Even during half term, the resort felt surprisingly quiet – we could grab sun loungers right by the pool without a fight, which is basically unheard of in most hotels in school holidays. The kids had an absolute blast with the Halloween activities – trick-or-treating around the rooms and face painting. And the beach? Absolutely stunning, easily one of the Algarve’s best. I loved that it’s right in the marina, so popping out for lunch was a breeze and there’s a huge choice of restaurants. Flights were super affordable and timed perfectly, and because it’s a short flight with a quick transfer, you don’t need to do a full week away. The spa pool policy has also been updated, so if there’s any wet weather, children aged 4+ can now enjoy it too

Visited & Verified by Mama Hollie, with 4 and 7-year-old Tiny Travellers 

We don’t like to boast, but as one of Domes’ preferred partners, Tiny Travel Agency comes with a long list of perks. Enjoy our complimentary Concierge service (we’ll prebook dining, activities, childcare and spa), a 30-minute spa experience per adult, early check-in and late check-out (subject to availability), a bottle of wine on arrival, a cocktail or wine tasting for stays of 5+ nights – price matched rates to top it all off

Where To Book For A Family Holiday In The Christmas Holidays

The Bay Hotel, Cape Town

There’s nowhere quite like Cape Town. I might be slightly biased because half of my family are South African, but honestly, I think it’s my favourite city in the world

It’s an incredible destination with children – particularly as they get a little older. There are so many reasons to visit. The beaches alone are worth the trip (Clifton 4th and Llandudno are my personal favourites), but beyond that there’s an endless list of things to see and do. Take the cable car up Table Mountain for the most jaw-dropping views, visit Robben Island for a powerful slice of history, go whale watching in season, or spend the day soaking up the atmosphere at the ever-buzzy V&A Waterfront

It’s also a true foodie paradise, with fantastic family-friendly restaurants and cafés at every turn – from laid-back beachside spots to stylish dining with a view. Add in beautiful places like Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where children can roam while you soak up the scenery, and you have a city that balances culture, adventure and relaxation perfectly

For New Year 2024 we stayed at The Bay Hotel in Camps Bay, just steps from one of the best beaches in the area. The huge interconnecting rooms make it an excellent choice for families, and the swimming pool is ideal for some quite downtime between sightseeing. You’re also perfectly positioned, with plenty of great restaurants and shops right on your doorstep

For a first-time visit to this spectacular city, it’s the hotel I’d recommend — and Cape Town itself is a place that will capture your heart and have you planning your return before you’ve even left

Visited & Verified by Mama Morag, with a 10, 14 and 16-year-old (not-so) Tiny Travellers 

Dreaming of Cape Town? Let our Tiny Travel Agency Team plan the perfect trip for you and your family. From flights and hotels, to day trips and sightseeing – we can arrange every detail 

Bedruthan Hotel and Spa, Cornwall

Our festive escape to Bedruthan Hotel made it all make sense – it couldn’t have been more obvious why this place has such a loyal following. From the outside, you’d never quite guess what’s coming, but the moment you walk through the doors it’s all warmth, buzz, and a genuine sense that the staff are delighted you (and the kids) are here to join the party

The beach is the constant backdrop and, honestly, reason enough to book. Mawgan Porth stretches out below the hotel, wild and beautiful in winter, all big skies and crashing waves. We were down there daily, bundled up, cheeks pink, letting the kids run free while shrieking with delight. You’re so close that if you can keep them quiet for a second, you can hear the sea from the rooms (one of my favourite things wherever I am)

Inside, it’s the all-weather entertainment that puts Bedruthan in a family-friendly league of its own. I’m talking craft rooms, a little cinema, humungous soft play, a brilliant pool setup, daily art sessions, and cosy lounges full of toys and books. And then there’s the hotel’s Christmas experience – to say Bedruthan goes all in is an understatement. Worlds away from a token tree and mince pie, this is a full, immersive Santa and grotto experience complete with elves in a life-size toy workshop, fairy-light bedecked icicle tunnel, a grand wooden sleigh and truckfuls of fake snow. Add excellent food in a relaxed setting, and stunning seaview rooms with family-approved layouts, and it’s easy to see why people return year after year

Visited & Verified by Mama Becky, with 5 and 1 year old Tiny Travellers

Lapland, Finland

If there’s one trip I would encourage every parent to book, it’s Lapland. There is a precious little window in your children’s lives – usually up to about 10 or 11 if you’re lucky – when they truly, wholeheartedly believe in Father Christmas. If you take them to Lapland during that time, you will honestly experience the trip of a lifetime. It’s not cliché to say it’s utterly magical

In December 2018, I woke my little boys in what must have felt like the middle of the night and told them they had a very special invitation to Lapland. The excitement on their faces was priceless. We boarded a flight at silly o’clock in the morning and headed off to Finland on a trip organised by Magic of Lapland

From the moment we arrived, the magic began. We were fully kitted out for the freezing Arctic temperatures – snow suits, boots and gloves all waiting for us – and then taken by coach deep into the most beautiful snow-covered forest. There, we played with elves, decorated gingerbread houses, whizzed through the trees on sleigh rides, met reindeer and built snowmen in the softest powdery snow

And then came the big moment. Meeting Father Christmas in his picture-perfect alpine grotto was everything you would hope it to be. He could not have been more wonderful. We spent nearly half an hour chatting as a family while the boys sat completely mesmerised. The way he spoke to them – knowing so much about their lives and their Christmas wishes, thanks to the detailed pre-trip questionnaire – was simply extraordinary

It’s a treasured memory we will all share forever, and I feel so grateful that we experienced it while they were still small enough to believe in every second of the magic.

Visited & Verified by Mama Morag, with a 4, 8 and 10-year-old Tiny Travellers 

Ready to plan your family trip to Lapland? Speak to our Tiny Travel Agency Team who can plan it all for you – magic guaranteed! 

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