About 4 years ago when my son was a baby, we booked a self-catering apartment that looked beautiful on the website but when we arrived the reality was nothing like the photos. The bed was too small to co-sleep and a steep unprotected staircase was a constant danger to my son, who was crawling around. The trip that was supposed to be a relaxing break ended up being more stressful and expensive than staying at home. In this blog we look at our top 3 baby friendly holidays.
The first time travelling with a baby can be difficult for parents not only because everything is new to them but also because mums and dads are usually tired. In need of a break from their daily routine themselves. Not everyone thinks about all the ifs and buts when travelling. Some just pack up their stuff and travel to Thailand. But for those who prefer to not travel that far and wish to have everything they need. Here are our top 3 baby-friendly holiday suggestions:
The French Country Chic
This place is a really beautiful Boutique Family Retreat close to Villefranche-de-Rouergue and features in our top 3 baby friendly holidays. The owners are from the UK and are wonderful hosts and also great cooks. At this place, they include kids’ activities. You can book a babysitter and they offer Gourmet meals for parents. There is everything one needs for the little ones (they have everything from toys to baby baths and all sorts of details for babies and toddlers). There is a great safety-fenced heated pool, a big garden, a playground and treehouse.
We stayed there when my daughter was only a few months old and it was a really nice experience. I can recommend this place without hesitation. Several of France’s most beautiful towns (Conques, Najac, Rodel, Belcastel) are easy to explore as day trips. The historic steam train that crosses the Dordogne Valley and a number of wildlife parks are all within easy reach. For those preferring more sporty pursuits, there are several easy walks from the guesthouse. A little further afield the river has numerous pretty picnics spots and older children and adults can swim, kayak and go canyoning in the summer.
3 family suites and 1 family room are available in total. Guests and kids usually get to know each other during their stay and can mingle if they like.
If you can escape in May, June or September they are currently offering great discounts.
The Mallorcan Family Hotel
Also in our top 3 baby friendly holidays is this traditional Mallorcan finca. This has been beautifully converted into an intimate rural hotel that offers rest and relaxation for parents. There is an abundance of space, toys and games for children. It has the luxury of an exclusive hotel combined with the independence of a private accommodation. And focuses entirely on families with toddlers and small children. You will find immaculately tended gardens that are bursting with colour surrounding the property. In its heart lies a large, heated pool (in the cooler months) with an expansive terrace. There’s also a play area and lots of shaded seating.
Guests accommodation is in apartment-style suites and each suite features a double bedroom, bathroom and spacious living room. All are simply furnished to make them as child-friendly as possible. A kitchenette in the living room gives guests the option of preparing their own meals or snacks.
The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, with many of the ingredients supplied by the hotel’s organic vegetable garden. The weekly barbecue night is a great opportunity to get to know other families. Meals can be delivered to one’s room.
The location might feel like miles from civilisation, but it is in fact close to the traditional town of Campos (about 30 minutes from Palma airport). Only 10 minutes from one of the island’s longest and loveliest beaches.
For bookings in March and April they are currently offering a 15% discount on all bookings!
The Sussex Cottages
This is the child-friendly accommodation that inspired The Little Voyager. We visited this beautiful and fully equipped house together with good friends and their kids when my son was only a baby. We had a wonderful time. There was nothing the lovely owner (a mum of 2) had not thought about.
Located in a small village in East Sussex, The cottages are a beautifully renovated farmhouse with 2 attached cottages ideal for families. A cheery, homely feel comes from the furnishings with great taste. Totally child-proofed, from the available stair gates to the socket protectors. It is an ideal venue for extended families or friends to get together and enjoy the English countryside. The house comfortably sleeps 7 to 8 adults and up to 4 children in four bedrooms. There are plenty of toys, books, board games and puzzles. Plus entertainment in the form of TV, DVD player, Xbox and more in the living room. The kitchen is fully equipped for cooking for the little ones as well as for large groups. Outdoors you will find a fully enclosed garden and a summer house which mean hours of fun for the kids.
In July and August, there are still a few weeks available: 2-12 July and 18-30 August.
If you would like any additional information on our top 3 baby-friendly holidays or tips on how to travel with babies, please contact me. I am more than happy to share our travel experiences with you.
Happy travelling!
