Over 4 years ago when my son was a baby, we booked a self-catering holiday villa in East Sussex. We spent two weeks of our summer holidays with good friends joining in from London with their babies.
The house exceeded our expectations and we truly had a wonderful time in a place where everything was provided for, from a fully equipped kitchen to a room full of toys. Stair gates that would keep our little ones safe from crawling upstairs constantly. This gave us time to sit down and enjoy our time together without being worried.
Finding the right accommodation with small kids is crucial and can change your entire holiday. Usually, turning from a relaxing experience to a nightmare. I think all of us parents are very much aware of this. I even know families that prefer staying home. However, I think it is important to disconnect and enjoy experiencing new places with the kids. What matters is choosing the right accommodation.
Here are my favourite self-catering holiday villas for the summer holidays:
The Umbrian Country Cottages
Situated in a stunning valley, the Umbrian Country Cottages are a magical option for families seeking tranquillity and relaxation in the heart of Italy. Three beautiful stone cottages, sleeping between two and six guests (with extra space for cots) look out over miles of uninterrupted countryside.
The two-and-a-half-acre grounds include a great fenced pool from which one can gaze down the endless valley. A playground equipped with plenty of toys and a playhouse is available. Guests can help themselves to fruits, herbs and vegetables from the gardens, try their hand at making pizza in the old bread oven or enjoy an alfresco barbecue.
There are also alpacas and a child-friendly dog on site which the kids love. This place is only 15 minutes away by car from Perugia. One of my favourite cities in Italy – we visited Umbria last year Easter and we all fell in love with it.
The Mallorcan Farmhouse
This recently renovated family finca offers guests all the comfort and style of a contemporary family home, within an authentically rural setting. With five double bedrooms and three bathrooms in the main house, a large fenced pool, ample terrace space, gardens and a separate annexe. There is plenty of space for groups of up to 10 to cook and eat together. Yet still there are quiet corners to relax in. The owners, who have small children themselves, make toys and games available to families and are more than happy to erect safety barriers where needed.
The large pool includes a shallow area where little ones can play. Both the pool and surrounding terrace are fully fenced for safety. Beyond the pool is a small playground where kids can play under the shade of the holm oaks.
The house can sleep 10 adults and 5 children and can be booked from 250 €/night during low season. Please note the house is nearly always fully booked so it makes sense to book well in advance.
The Costa Brava Garden House
This is a nice four-bedroom holiday villa that can fit up to 6 adults, 2 children and a baby. There are two double rooms, one twin and one kids room with bunk beds and a cot. The owner has extra children’s beds that can be provided. Toys for the kids, bikes, baby cutlery and high chairs can also be provided. The owner is always happy to help if they can.
Located about 1 hour from Barcelona in Sant Feliu de Guixols, the house is in a residential area and there is a community area (about 2 minutes walking from the house) with a big pool and a small playground nearby. The community area is gated. However, the pool is not fenced as it is not a private pool belonging to the house. The pool is in an area where the children cannot go alone so there is no danger when you are at the house.
The beach is about a 5-minute drive by car and to the nearest supermarket. The house also has a great garden where the kids can play and where you can enjoy meals.
The price will depend on how long you would like to stay.
The Ibicencan Family Holiday Villa
This spacious family-friendly holiday villa is the perfect setting for a sunshine-filled family break. It can sleep up to 8 plus 2 babies. Ideally positioned within walking distance of the beautiful village (San José) and a 15-minute drive of several beaches. It makes for very relaxing stays: days can be spent splashing around in the pool, strolling into the village to pick up fresh bread or barbecue items. With plenty of opportunities to visit nearby beaches, and enjoy the sunset from the roof terrace.
The villa offers a variety of charming outdoor spaces, therefore, giving everybody room to find a quiet spot when needed. While also providing ample space to dine, play and relax together.
One terrace, off the living room, has a dining and seating area. Making it ideal for outdoor breakfasts. The lockable gate leads to a fully fenced pool and deck with sun loungers. At night it is prettily illuminated by fairy lights. A further sunken garden area includes a barbecue, a large dining table for ten, and a little chill-out area decked out with beanbags. Guests are welcome to pick lemons from the tree and herbs from the gardens for their culinary or cocktail creations.
Enquire early to make sure summer weeks are available.
For enquiries and tips on how to travel with babies and toddlers, please contact us.
Happy travelling!
