Tired of identikit hotel rooms with no character? Bored with staying in dull, uninspiring rentals? One of our friends, Nadine Mellor, Editor of i-escape.com’s Kids Collection has handpicked some super cool suggestions for unusual places to stay which will provide really memorable family holidays. Send me a postcard please. Xo
Getting back to nature is all the rage these days, and these shacks and yurts set in peaceful moorland and woodland around a restored farmhouse fit the bill. There are wood-burners and proper beds plus kitchenettes inside, and there’s a cafe on site for those who don’t want to self-cater. For the kids there’s a play area plus nature trails and craft sessions. And the whole family will love the relaxed, authentic vibe.
Milos Windmill, Cyclades Islands, Greece
This charming converted windmill has two bedrooms (one of which can be made up as twins) and a kitchen/diner spread out over its three floors – all simply decorated with typically Greek white-washed walls and blue shutters. There are also two outhouses which sleep two each so the whole property would be good for an extended family holiday. Take the kids to explore secret beaches and smugglers caves nearby, or out on a boat trip. And best of all, it’s great value.
Finca de Arrieta, Lanzarote, Canary Islands
For all-year-round sunshine the Canaries can’t be beaten. This fun eco-resort has yurts and stone cottages (sleeping 2-8) set amongst fruit trees, and is a fantastic place to bring the family. Parents will love the convenience of being just 35 minutes from the airport and being able to self-cater, while the kids will adore the pool, trampoline, playground, table tennis, donkey rides and meeting farm animals. The property is extremely well-equipped for babies and toddlers. There are also beaches just half a kilometre away. Perfection.
Whitepod, Les Cerniers, Alps, Switzerland
This is a unique set up: 15 boutique eco-pods with superkingsize beds and wood-burners, and wonderful views across pristine mountains. Here the kids stay for free, and there are mezzanine platforms for them to sleep on. This is a quiet location, away from brash downhill racers, with impeccable eco credentials. Families will enjoy trying sledging and snow-shoeing in winter, and the camp is also a wonderful place to stay in the summer with hiking, biking and dog-karting on offer. There’s a central restaurant serving hearty local produce. Magical!
Unleash your inner Fred Flintstone when staying at this impeccably renovated mud-brick house overlooking an ancient citadel in a small oasis on the edge of the Western Desert. There’s a housekeeper on hand to look after you, and adventurous older kids will love trying sand-boarding down dunes, swimming in the hot springs and going on a desert safari. At the house are board games, DVDs and books, as well as a well-equipped kitchen.
You know the old saying, Go Get ‘Em… well that’s my advice when you’re planning any of these trips, send i-escape a email now to chat about your booking, enjoy top class customer service, (which I pinky promise you will be thrilled with) and then get down to Morrison’s, they have the best ever (cheap) selection of sun-hats for kids. xo
Creative Bus Stop 