The best family hotels in the Mediterranean

Sally Peck
·40-min read
The best family hotels in the Mediterranean, Europe
With a terrific kids' club, clued-in staff and six pools to splash in, Ikos Andalusia is ideal for families - Ikos Resorts

Mediterranean beach holidays are ideal for families: the warm, gentle waters suit everyone from toddlers to grandparents, and they can be the ideal trips on which to give new activities and water sports a try. But how can you be sure to pick the right sun-drenched spot for your brood? From Majorca to Mykonos, Sicily to Spain’s glittering coves, the coastlines are glorious, with pine-fringed paths leading down to the water and a good smattering of souvenir stalls, playgrounds and ice cream shops. Ask yourself a few questions: are you happy with the go-slow pace of island life? Do you like the idea of a few Roman ruins to explore, as well as time on the beach with a bucket and spade? What sort of cuisine do you and your children enjoy the most?

Consider, too, the ages of your youngsters and the activities required to ensure a happy break for everyone. Below you will find charming boutique hotels which make our list thanks to their superb locations and family-friendly feel, plus plenty of all-singing, all-dancing complexes with elaborate kids’ clubs, a plethora of pools and all manner of games and workshops to keep boisterous youngsters entertained. From France to Cyprus and everywhere inbetween, here’s our pick of the very best family-friendly hotels in the Mediterranean.

How we review


Every hotel in this curated list has been visited by one of our expert reviewers, who are usually hosted on a complimentary basis. They stay for a minimum of one night, test at least one meal and trial other experiences that the hotel might have to offer. We will earn a commission if you book via the links below, but this never affects our rating.

Hotel Aigua Blava, Spain
Hotel Aigua Blava is a classy, family-friendly hotel overlooking a beautiful bay in Begur

At a glance, the best family-friendly hotels in the Mediterranean

 

Greece

Greece is a superb family destination, whether you’re travelling with toddlers or teens. There’s the relaxed pace of life and warm, family-oriented locals. The gentle blue water lapping broad, seemingly endless beaches – ideal for messing about on boats and paddleboards, or learning to swim and sail. Each Greek island has its own personality; you just need to find a good fit for your family. Mykonos for the party scene; a simpler, timeless burst of nature on Antiparos or Naxos with younger kids; or perhaps the drama, history and scale of Crete.

Greece has a great range of hotels that work brilliantly for families, whether you’re after a low-key beachy bolthole for a relaxed island escape, or one of the increasingly fabulous super-resorts which offer round-the-clock childcare and a whole array of activities.

Where to stay in Crete

Within easy reach of Chania’s Venetian harbour, this low-key resort with a private pebble beach attracts families seeking a sophisticated pad for pampering. The bungalows, pavilions and villas – with well-sized bathrooms and plump beds – are scattered over a low hillside, with plant-lined paths leading down to the main infinity pool surrounded by loungers. There’s a freshwater pool specifically for children, as well as a creche and a kids’ club offering free activities such as art classes, gardening and family yoga. In terms of eating, healthy breakfasts, lunches and dinners are served in the main Beach House restaurant, while Enino’s is the spot for good wine and fine dining.

A cool look, eco-friendly ethos, spacious family rooms and a whole host of on-site sports activities make this Malia marvel a popular choice for the whole clan. The deck-surrounded main pool has plenty of loungers but it’s on the small side, so most people head for the Blue Flag beach which has plenty of serviced sunbeds. Note that sea access is limited, with more than half the beachfront blocked by slippery rocks, but there is a small shallow (rock-free) bay at one end that’s good for toddlers. Staff – especially in the restaurants – really go the extra mile with children (who seem to be everywhere) and there’s a kids’ club as well as a small toddlers’ pool with slides.

• The best beach hotels in the Mediterranean

This delightful family-friendly resort near the seaside town of Agios Nikolaos sprawls across a small hill that offers views of Mirabello Bay below. The heart of the resort is the Provencal-style village square, though the main hubs are the two pretty pools (plus several kids' pools) and a glorious pine-fringed beach. A path leading along the rocky coastline also has a sprinkling of private jetties with sun beds and ladders descending to the sea. In terms of accommodation, the Family Apartments and Seafront Suites are great, while those with self-catering facilities make it an excellent choice for budget-conscious families – especially as children up to 11 years old stay for free.

• The best hotels in Crete

This impressive cliffside hotel is a paradise for families, especially for those with younger children. Anticipate excellent and varied restaurants (healthy meals, variety and quick yet friendly service for impatient youngsters), a game-stocked kids’ entertainment room, activity clubs, lots of well-monitored watersports and several outdoor pools. The stone-clad rooms and bungalows blend seamlessly into the surrounding hillsides, and many have their own private plunge pools. For adults, there’s a sleek spa with a Finnish sauna, an indoor pool, hydro-massage facilities and a vast range of treatments to try.

Laidback luxury is the hallmark of this sprawling, family-friendly stay in Elounda. Built to mimic the colours and contours of Spinalonga just opposite, it attracts a lot of young families who come for the first-class restaurants, choice of pools (including one that’s just for adults), Blue Flag strip of sandy beach and elegant spa – which offers treatments for little ones, too. Rooms, suites and villas are decorated in a playful Art Deco style with china cockatoos, gold washbasins and pops of colour, while dining spans the gamut – from Mediterranean fare in Tholos and ‘surf and turf’ evenings at Italian restaurant Blend.

Where to stay in the Cyclades

Built on a hillside in the southernmost corner of beautiful Ornos Bay, Santa Marina’s setting is lush and immaculate, with the only private beach on Mykonos and immediate access to restaurants, cafés and shops. The look combines traditional exteriors with contemporary interiors featuring modern but simple furniture and artwork. Elegant yet comfortable outdoor common areas make full use of the sea view, with wicker furniture, hanging egg chairs, canopied sunbeds and sunken sofas that are built into the wide infinity pool. Youngsters have their own saltwater pool as well as a well-equipped play area, and the spacious split-level Family Retreat Suite features two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a balcony that looks out across the Aegean.

On the relatively lush island of Naxos, this is a secluded, family-run getaway on a stretch of beach leading from Naxos Town, with nothing much around except for a few other independent hotels. A major highlight is the hotel’s own pristine and private beach – an easy all-day escape where drinks food can be ordered from the beach bar as children play on the gold-toned sand. There’s a restaurant, swimming pool and plenty of lounging space, as well as two shady raised wooden terraces with sofas and dining tables that are perfect for taking in the endless sea view. Rooms are simple but immaculately decorated with vintage-style furniture and tiled floors; the Family Suite has two bedrooms, as do the Maisonettes.Within walking distance to Antiparos Town and harbour, this charming and relaxing hotel offers a warm welcome and fantastic hospitality. Despite its location on an island known to attract the Hollywood elite – including Tom Hanks, who has a villa here – the hotel is an affordable option for families, with lower room rates, free transfers to and from the port, plenty of things to keep little ones busy (an outdoor pool with a children's pool attached, a playground and rock garden), free parking, and self-catering apartments which can fit up to five guests. The rooms themselves are simple in colour scheme but Cycladic influences and the modern art on the walls add character to the spaces.

• The best budget hotels Mediterranean

Where to stay in the Peloponnese

Costa Navarino is designed for children – and with high standards of service, golden beaches, superb rooms and excellent facilities, it’s no wonder the resort has been such a success story. The spread-out grounds feel like a proper seaside town; it even has a low-rise commercial hub with shops lining the streets, from a pharmacy and a fashion boutique to a café and delicatessen. There’s a golf academy, tennis centre, football camps, an aquapark, 10-pin bowling, a basketball court and a surf school as well as two swimming pools. To top things off, the Sandcastle is a supervised playground for four to 12-year-olds and the teens hub includes VR Experiences, bowling lanes, a Karaoke room and an ice cream bar.

Where to stay in the Saronic Islands

This peaceful and secluded boutique hotel on pebbly Plakes Beach is ideal for families who just want to relax and unwind. At the heart of the property is a centuries-old stone mansion housing five suites (which can accommodate up to four people each) that overlooks Tassia’s tavern (traditional Greek cuisine and fresh fish) and the beach where towels, sunbeds and umbrellas are complimentary for guests. The calm and clear sea is ideal for snorkelling, kayaks are available to book and a range of cruises can be arranged on the Apiliotis, the hotel’s wooden boat. Free transfers are available to and from the hotel, as are shuttle boat services to and from the port of Hydra.

Where to stay in the Ionian islands

Ikos’ second opening on the island, all-inclusive Odisia, is a beautiful resort hugging the sandy shoreline of east coast Corfu. Low-rise buildings are nuzzled between pine trees and citrus groves topped off with glorious sea views. It would be a struggle to find another luxury hotel brand in Europe so deeply welcoming of families – there are 10 different swimming pools to choose from, brilliant splash parks that little ones will adore, and an action-packed line-up of activities designed to keep energetic kids entertained. Babies and toddlers are welcomed at all six of the restaurants and will be instantly provided with highchairs as well as their own smart plastic cutlery. Even better, waiters don’t bat an eyelid at spillages or screeching. The Kids' Club is enormous and can look after babies from as young as three months old, and there's a dedicated Just4Teens zone, too.When balancing aesthetics, quality of food and drink and facilities with price, this might just be one of the best value all-inclusive hotels in Corfu. Located right on a Blue Flag beach with a speedy transfer from the airport, it is a real fly-and-flop sort of resort that's ideal for families. The main buffet restaurant has a spread and quality that easily rivals other far more expensive hotels on the island, and there's a very helpful dedicated low-slung buffet station where children can help themselves. There's also a complimentary kids' club, family suites have sliding doors to split the room into sections (sofa beds and full-sized cots can be set up upon request) and child-friendly live shows take place in amphitheatre after dinner each evening.

Where to stay in Halkidiki

A stylish and discreet retreat looking out to the calm waters of Cape Sani, this well-designed beachside hotel does an exceptional job catering to families of all sizes and ages, with three crèches and a kids’ club for older children and teens. Youngsters stay for free, the team can arrange anything from pushchairs to bottle sterilising kit, and private nannies can be arranged easily. The calendar of fun-filled activities spans junior archery sessions to after-dark hiking, and little ones learning to swim can be signed up for lessons with the qualified resident instructors.Ekies All Senses is popular for both fly-and-flop family trips and more active getaways, with days spent playing in the pools, tucking into freshly grilled fish and soft-serve ice cream, and relaxing on the hotel’s private beach – or exploring the Halkidiki peninsula by car and nearby hidden coves by boat. There is a dedicated kids’ pool as well as a little playground, and the sea is shallow enough for children to play in. From early light, the friendly staff at the Beach Club restaurant serve coffee to parents up with early-rising babies, through to drinks on the sun loungers in the day, and cocktails on the deck come sunset. For dinner the choice extends to three more restaurants, with great kids' menus available in all of them.

France

There is plenty for parents and children to love in France: beautiful beaches, romantic vistas, elegant châteaux. And that’s before you even get to the baguettes, crêpes, and fabulous local wines to lull grown-ups into deep relaxation.

Banish thoughts of strict manners: France has a growing collection of beautiful château-based family-focused hotels that welcome all levels of childlike gusto. There are wholesome jolly beach holidays in the Languedoc or smart sojourns on the Côte d’Azur. Stay north, though, if extreme heat doesn’t appeal; the south is decidedly steamy in the summer.

Where to stay in Languedoc-Roussillon

Surrounded by vineyards, this 19th-century château on a 200-acre working winery with hotel rooms and ultra-stylish self-catering residences offers everything you need for an upscale family holiday. With the huge infinity pool, large spa, tennis court and winery to keep you happy, you could easily spend a good few days without leaving the estate, plus there are bikes of all sizes which can be used free of charge. There's a cute kids' club open during the UK school holidays for those aged four to 12 – expect plenty of outdoor activities and an emphasis on recycling and 'archeological digs'. There's also a supervised children's tea five days a week, plus weekly movie nights. The atmosphere is laid back and informal, and it's become so popular with English folk that your little ones are likely to find English-speaking playmates.

With its thick buttermilk-stone walls and fairytale turrets dating back to 1887, this turreted 19th-century castle with luxurious hotel suites and self-catering cottages is the real deal. The heated infinity pool overlooks rows of neatly planted vines, and there’s a clay tennis court, volleyball court and boules pitch, plus complimentary mountain bikes to borrow. Beyond the usual cots and highchairs, there's a great kids' club and an early dinner sitting for children, plus the team at reception gladly lends out DVDs, board games and iPods loaded with catchy playlists.

Where to stay in Provence

There are few locations as exclusive as the Cap-Ferrat peninsula; come to this celebrity-studded five-star with walks from the door, a renowned Michelin-star restaurant, a clifftop beach club and a pool that starred in the Absolutely Fabulous movie. Children are kept busy with a club that has its own garden, a shallow pool and themed activities, while fun extras include games and toys on arrival as well as their own mini-bathrobes and toiletries. Interconnecting rooms, babysitting services – for when you fancy a spa treatment, or romantic afternoon by the sea in a private beach pavilion – and dedicated menus are also available.

This kid-tastic palace offers a tempting combination of an exclusive Cap-Ferrat address, landscaped gardens and its own private beach. The beau monde have flocked here since 1904, yet the informal ambience ensures young families with wandering toddlers won’t feel out of place. The best feature is the outdoor living space that meanders through dining, swimming and relaxation areas dotted with banana palms and olive trees. The Royal Kid Programme gives children a passport at check-in, age-appropriate gifts and free ice-cream vouchers at the pool. One under-14 can stay in their parents’ Deluxe room or suite for free, though interconnecting rooms and family-sized suites are available, too.

Located on the outskirts of the hilltop Saint-Paul-de-Vence, this bed and breakfast is where the French Riviera dreams of a Swallows-and-Amazons adventure come true. The woodland resort offers treehouse accommodation named after characters from Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book and has a plant-strewn natural pool (it’s worth visiting Orion for this alone). The four tree houses are scattered around the pine-and-oak woodland – best for families is King Louie with its second mini-cabin for kids (sleeps four) and Colonel Haithi (for up to five). All of them have fully-plumbed toilets and baths or showers, and the beds are kitted out with mosquito nets, though make sure to pack some mosquito spray for evenings spent on the balcony.

Children love the wild setting at this unpretentious Provençal farmhouse, which effortlessly straddles the line between a smart country hotel and a relaxed, unfussy retreat. There’s a comfortable home-from-home vibe and endless outdoor adventures to enjoy – from the lovely large pool set within its own walled garden and miles of sandy beaches just a short drive away, to Camargue horses to ride and mountain bikes to hire. Eight comfortable double rooms include four suites and a two-bedroom, two-bathroom family suite. They share the same warm, comfortable style as the public spaces with butterscotch, grey and sea-green walls, excellent beds and timeless rustic-chic furniture.

• The best budget hotels in the Mediterranean

Spain

Spain is an excellent option for families of all ages and sizes: children are welcome everywhere, and the beaches and resorts here are well set up for them. The Balearic Islands are, on average, a few degrees warmer than the French Riviera, so you’d have to be a heat-seeking crowd. But these islands are among the very dreamiest destinations in the Med when it comes to beautiful beaches. Formentera’s limpid turquoise waters and sandy stretches are heaven for small children; neighbouring Ibiza appeals to teens and parents with its outstanding food, great wellness scene and buzzy beach clubs; while the sheltered coves of Majorca and Menorca make them superb family all-rounders.

The Costas, meanwhile, are inundated with pile-em-high family resorts, for primary-bright toddler fun, aqua parks and child-oriented restaurants – the tricky thing is seeking out the gems among them. Start with these: a super-slick address on Andalucia’s Costa del Sol, or down-to-earth hideaways on the Costa Brava, for slipping into the easy-breezy, sunshine-and-siesta way of life.

Where to stay in the Balearics

Set within a fragrant pine grove and just a short stroll from sandy Playa Migjorn, Hotel Casbah is a great, low-key base for exploring Formentera as a family. More of a guesthouse than a hotel, Casbah has individual finca-style apartments – which are modest and slightly old fashioned– but each with lots of outdoor space and plenty of privacy. There’s plenty to keep both youngsters and parents occupied here: in amongst the botanical-esque gardens there’s an enticing pool lined by sunbeds, and an enclosed tepee for relaxing massages, both joined by stepping stones and lit by strings of bulb lighting. Elsewhere, there’s a snack bar and an excellent restaurant, and there are interconnecting rooms available.

Not many hotels combine top-shelf luxury with sustainability and family-friendliness, but tucked into the rocks in the much-loved bohemian north of the island, Six Senses Ibiza deftly interweaves the three. Kids can explore the ‘six dimensions of wellness’ by attending their own yoga classes, indulging in the children’s spa menu, mixing their own fragrant lotions with herbs grown on site, or, of course, chilling by the infinity pool. Standard rooms are soothing, with neutral palettes, USB outlets, silky soft sheets and either sea or treeline views, with Marshall speakers and coffee/tea amenities. The gorgeous understated Junior Suites are great for families, and children under 11 stay free.

Casa Munich, on a small hill in the Ses Salinas Nature Reserve, is one of those rare, super-lovely hotels which you find yourself looking forward to heading back to. The whole place is designed like a miniature village, so space and privacy aren't a concern here, and the pretty courtyards, winding pathways and lush tropical gardens have a traditional old world charm. Facilities abound – it's one of the few hotels in Ibiza that has a tennis court, which handily doubles as a basketball court and football area. There's also three pools (including one for adults only), a full rack of mountain bikes to borrow, and a ping pong table, plus cots are available upon request.

This coastal haven with five restaurants, 10 swimming pools and an excellent spa sets the bar for all-inclusive luxury hotels in Majorca, and caters for kids of all ages. The peaceful setting is, however, better suited to quieter family groups. Most guests opt for an all-inclusive package, which grants access to four good-quality à la carte restaurants – Caliu Steakhouse, El Olivo, Tastes & Sushi and La Veranda – and there is a popular breakfast and lunch buffet restaurant, too. If you fancy heading away from the hotel’s gates, however, it’s just a five-minute stroll to Camp de Mar resort’s promenade, sandy beach and small coves.

Historic Hotel Bonsol is a much-loved family-owned four-star retreat set on a hilltop overlooking the sea on Majorca’s southwest coast. Warm and welcoming, the place is paradise for children, with everything from an activity club offering craft activities and swimming lessons, to a child-friendly pool and an indoor playroom brimming with games and toys. In the mature gardens you’ll find squash courts, boules, two saltwater pools and a private beach. A tennis court is located on an upper level of the hotel, too. Interiors are a treasure trove of historic memorabilia, artefacts, original paintings and charming objets d’art.

This family-run hotel is situated in extensive grounds, guaranteeing complete privacy despite being in the heart of Port de Sóller (you can reach the promenade and sandy beaches in less than three minutes on foot). The beautifully preserved 17th-century property caters to all tastes, but families will particularly enjoy its large pool, immaculate lawns, patios with sun loungers, tennis courts and e-bikes to rent. A labyrinth of sitting rooms with arched stone ceilings serve as reading spaces and games rooms, and bedrooms range from standard doubles to suites – the latter have balconies and terraces with superb views of the Tramuntana mountains and Sóller Bay.

Where to stay in the Canary Islands

A pink palace distinctive for miles around in the south of Tenerife, thanks to its bold Moorish style and beachfront location. This is truly holiday heaven for families – from the dedicated family villas to myriad activities the whole clan will enjoy (think helicopter tours over Mount Teide and stargazing picnics to name but a couple). There's also seven pools to pick from, Europe’s largest Ritz Kids Club, complete with an outdoor playground, planetarium and garden and a club geared specifically towards teens that offers yoga, street dance, graffiti and DJing sessions. All of the restaurants offer children's menus, with kids under four eating for free, and family suites are available, with plenty baby equipment available to borrow.

Where to stay on the Costa del Sol

Between the Med and the mountains of the Costa del Sol – and an hour from Malaga airport – Ikos Andalusia is a haven for families. No one bats an eyelid if kids play ball in one of six pools or take their inflatables in with them, restaurants have high chairs and well-thought-out menus for children, and there are interconnecting rooms complete with cots and sofa beds. Activity-wise, everything is covered – there are pedalos and paddle boards to borrow, all kinds of art and craft experiences for little ones to try, and fun-filled shows they're sure to love. You can also look forward to the complimentary 30 minute beachside childcare service – ideal for frazzled parents keen to enjoy a leisurely swim together or a stroll along the sand in peace.The Puente Romano extends through gorgeous gardens right down to the beach on Marbella's Golden Mile – you can stroll along the seafront promenade to both Marbella's old town and Puerto Banús marina in 45 minutes, or cycle in 15 minutes. If the three outdoor pools (plus one for families) aren't enough, there's an equestrian centre, which offers riding lessons and daily excursions, as well as all sorts of watersports including stand-up paddle boarding, windsurfing, kayaking and sailing, and a tennis school. There are family-sized rooms; cots and extra beds for children under 12 are free. Yachts can be arranged if you fancy a day out with the family, and from May to September there's a great kids' club, too.

Where to stay on the Costa Brava

Occasionally you find a hotel with the kind of stunning sea views that dreams are made of – overlooking the gorgeous bay at Calella de Palafrugell, the Sant Roc is one of them. Originally opened in 1955 by the current owners' grandparents, the hotel has been tastefully refurbished over the years and feels contemporary, comfortable and welcoming. There's no pool here but an expansive terrace is set amidst shady, twisted pines, and there’s a comfy lounge inside. The children's playroom has toys and books and is thoughtfully situated next to the bar so adults can sip a drink whilst supervising their kids. Meanwhile, the outdoor playground is at the front, and there’s a dedicated kids' menu at the restaurant.

There are some places where you can feel the stress of day-to-day life easing away the moment you arrive, and this luxurious family-friendly retreat, set amid stunning Solius Valley countryside, is one of them. Parents can truly relax here, especially in the spa, where their children can join them at specific times of the day. There’s a large outdoor pool, a paddling pool and an outdoor playground, as well as a wonderful playroom full of toys, games and books (conveniently situated adjacent to the restaurant dining room). Most of the light, spacious bedrooms have stunning valley views, there are cots available upon request, and children under the age of three stay for free.

This classy, family-friendly hotel overlooking the beautiful bay of Aiguablava may be a four star, but its old world charm, excellent restaurant and spectacular views are a cut above. Originally converted from a 1930s hostel behind the beach, the hotel is now home to stylish and contemporary rooms, charmingly old-fashioned lounge spaces, and a wood-panelled bar area. Outdoor facilities include a seawater pool, tennis and volleyball courts (with rackets available to borrow at no extra cost) and a good-sized playground. Cots for children under three are free, extra beds for older children can be put in some doubles, and family rooms and self-catering apartments are also available.

Italy

Children love Italy and Italians love children; it is an ideal marriage for summer or half-term fun. However, picking a destination can be counter-intuitive, as many Italian beauty spots – the Amalfi Coast, say – can be complicated with the kids in tow. Whether it’s vertiginous cliffs, tiny swimming coves, or romantic restaurants, these destinations may not be ideal. Head, instead, to Italy’s more family-friendly sands – down south in Puglia and Basilicata, or on its glorious islands of Sicily and Sardinia.

Where to stay in Puglia

This fake but fabulous Puglian village has a film-set quality that's been luring Hollywood idols for years. It's a magical, make-believe, candle-lit world, with a fistful of restaurants, four pools, three bars, two private beaches and a sybaritic spa. Guests are allocated a 'local advisor' who helps tailor their stay. Whether you want to hire bikes, drop the children at the friendly kids' or teens' clubs, take them to the miniature farm, escape for a Vair spa treatment, learn to make orecchiette pasta or local pottery, play tennis, golf, take up windsurfing, kitesurfing, kayaking – or just peg out at one of the resort's two private beaches or three outdoor pools – there's something for everyone.

It would be easier to list the activities that this family-orientated masseria doesn't offer rather than the masses they do. Among the most popular are the regular 'festa di paese' nights – recreations of Pugliese village fairs complete with food stalls and traditional music. Families can borrow the resort's mountain bikes for adventures in the surrounding countryside, and the Masseria lays pizza-making courses for children. In the gardens, comfy seats and daybeds are tucked amid pomegranate trees, bougainvillea and hibiscus, and the main courtyard is magical, especially in the evenings.

Where to stay in Basilicata

A charming, secluded hotel located near quaint Maratea harbour, with its smattering of restaurants and shops. Rustic in character and adorned with elegant period furnishings, it emanates a nostalgic charm characteristic of the old, aristocratic residences of southern Italy. The larger family suites are set around a small courtyard overlooking the lawn, set back from the main hotel, and along with babysitting services, there's an array of child-friendly activities and excursions on offer. Essentially, Santavenere has the atmosphere more of a family home than a hotel, meaning the whole brood will be welcomed with open arms.

Where to stay in Sicily

Laid out along the rocky coastline in a little-explored corner of Southern Sicily, Rocco Forte’s modernist-style resort boasts exceptional facilities including an enormous spa, three golf courses and four restaurants. Children are truly spoilt here. Parents can entrust their little ones to the qualified staff at the kids' club with its pool, trampoline, ping-pong table, cooking classes in the purpose-built kitchen, arts and crafts sessions, local history immersions and more. Expect in-room treats; kids’ menus, highchairs and discounts in the restaurants. Elsewhere there’s a vast pool, two padel courts, endless water sports, and three boats for excursions along the coast. The list goes on and on.

Lying between Mount Etna and the sea, what really makes this place special is the feeling of being far away from the world. For families looking to explore this corner of Sicily, the location is excellent for visiting the volcano (the four-wheel-drive excursions with a local volcanologist are superb) or touring the vineyards of Etna North. Taormina and Siracusa are both easy day trips. Back at base, the pool is a good size and several of the rooms have their own plunge pools and outdoor hot tubs. Top choice for families is the Jacuzzi Family Lodge, which comes with a satisfyingly big pool that invites carefree splashing and in-water games. There are also a good line-up of child-friendly activities such as horticultural sessions at the hotel’s impressive garden, Radicepura – a short drive away.

Where to stay in Sardinia

With beautiful bay views, exceptional food and attentive service, this family-friendly gem is ideal for a low-key holiday with the clan in Cannigione. Rooms and suites are situated within low-rise buildings spread around the Mediterranean-style garden which gives the place a calm village feel (especially suitable for families are the apartments and villas which have cooking facilities), while the bar, lobby and restaurant are open with an indoor-outdoor feel. As well as the large pool, guests have access to a private stretch of Cannigione’s beach (with loungers and umbrellas) and there's a free shuttle to the larger Mannena Beach should you feel like a change of scenery. The kids' club is free for ages three to 11, and there's a baby-feeding room on site, too.

On Sardinia’s north coast, Le Sabine is one of five hotels in the Le Dune resort, edged with Blue Flag sandy beaches as far as the eye can see. It’s a great place for families, with 10 restaurants, six pools, an A-Z of activities and fun-filled clubs and sports to suit all ages. Nightly live music, plus 'baby dance' to get the children off to sleep more quickly, complete the offerings. You'll even find an aviary with peacocks and chickens, plus 'fantasy playgrounds' featuring wigwams and a fortress, children’s pools, and indoor and outdoor cinemas – all included in the room rate. Guests are also free to use the facilities of the other hotels within the Resort & SPA Le Dune complex.

This handsome five-star’s isolated beachfront position and excellent facilities make it particularly appealing to couples and families. What makes it really stand out however, is its ‘pocket-friendliness’ with great deals on half- and full-board options that make it very reasonable compared to similar hotels close by. There are seven seawater pools, a small private beach and the Mini Club offers daily-changing activities for children aged between three and 10 years. Nearby Colonna Country & Sporting has tennis courts and a small practice golf course for youngsters (and grown-ups) keen to hone their putting technique, while more serious golfers get a discount at Pevero Golf Club.

Turkey

Turkey’s Turquoise Coast is superb for family beach holidays. There are great swathes of sand backed by ancient ruins, and pine-forested peninsulas enfolding small bays of calm water, best explored by boat, paddleboard or kayak, and so clear you can see shoals of fish swimming below.

The laid-back pace and relaxed attitude makes for an easygoing break, and the food is a hit too: fantastic fresh fish, local produce and piles of jewel-like Turkish delight in the markets. Turkey has plenty of luxurious options, but it can also be a destination to suit smaller budgets, too. Look beyond the mega hotels to a good choice of luxurious boutique stays that are brilliant for watersports. Spring and autumn can be glorious times to go, when it’s quieter and prices are lower, but it’s still sunny.

Where to stay on the Turquoise Coast

A big, cheerful resort with all the workings of a small town and extensive facilities for families looking to kick back and relax. With three sandy beaches (two of them are adults-only); three restaurants and eight bars; a nature trail and a shuttle boat service to get around, there’s plenty to keep things entertaining. Family rooms are cool and comfortable, and the hotel’s huge food court-style restaurant serves buffet breakfasts, lunches and dinners. Pasha, for diners aged 12 and older, also offers Turkish Mediterranean cuisine and the beach bar offers à la carte Italian dishes. Helpful extras families will appreciate include a ‘baby park’, strollers to borrow, babysitting services and an amphitheatre with a line-up of daily shows and events.

Run by the same family for over 30 years, this delightful hotel is a friendly place and a great environment for kids with over three acres of lush grounds to play in, ducks, chickens and peacocks to check out, and the beach a stone’s throw away. The individual bungalows are tucked discreetly away in the expansive gardens, guaranteeing plenty of privacy if that’s what you want, however many guests gravitate towards the tables and chairs, candle-lit at night, clustered around the impressive gazebo that serves as the breakfast and dining room. There’s plenty to do day-trip wise from Çıralı, with most guests at least taking a drive into the spectacular mountains and visiting an ancient site or two.

A serene, upmarket resort on a stretch of unspoiled Turkish-Mediterranean coastline near the pretty, low-key village of Göcek. Open year-round, it has extensive wellness facilities and three restaurants serving a range of cuisine with dedicated children’s menus. A private decked sunbathing area curves around the bay’s shallows and white sand covers the small quiet beach. Bikes and buggies are free to borrow, and for an extra charge, you can spend half a day on the hotel’s speedboat (with drinks and lunch) being whisked around 12 beautiful local – and mostly uninhabited – islands. All rooms and suites (40 of which have a living room and extra bedroom) are decorated in the same white-and-blue nautical theme.

Croatia

Sandy beaches are rare in Croatia – it's worth knowing that before you proceed any further. But if you like adventure with your seaside holiday, it is an excellent option for families with tweens and teens. Still relatively keenly priced, Croatia draws British families who enjoy island hopping along the Dalmatian Coast, or perhaps cycling down the coast from Split to Dubrovnik. Hvar is perhaps the most chic island in the country, attracting a style-conscious crowd with its boutique hotels, excellent seafood and bourgeois bohemian vibe. The coastal town of Rovinj, by contrast, is known for its restaurant scene and impressive architecture.

Where to stay in Hvar

Expect 50 sea-view rooms, several pebbled coves shaded by pines, a spa, a kids' club, and a restaurant and bar overlooking two pools at this luxurious waterside stay in a sheltered bay near Stari Grad. The look is modern and stylish: interiors throughout use local stone, wood, brushed brass, and terracotta tiles, while natural fabrics come in colours inspired by Hvar's pinewoods, rocks and sea. Young families with children are most welcome here – the colourful Playroom offers supervised activities, and babysitting is available which is ideal if you fancy a few hours in the spa, a flick through arty books from the library, or a romantic trip around the island on one of the quirky wooden bikes.

Staying at Palmižana, set in an overgrown botanical garden on a tiny car-free islet, feels like a back-to-nature escape. Parents love it for children – there's no traffic, so the kids can run wild in nature, and the small beach gives onto a sheltered bay with shallow water. The hotel's six bungalows and six villas are each themed around a deep, vibrant colour complemented by modern artworks, and each has a double bedroom (some have two), a living room with sofa bed (but no television), and a secluded terrace for sitting out. Extra beds and cots are available on request, and basic self-catering facilities mean you can prepare snacks. Elsewhere, there are two excellent open-air restaurants that serve Dalmatian cuisine.

Where to stay in Rovinj

With contemporary Croatian design based on the concept of a cruise ship, this xxxxx hotel attracts image-conscious couples and young families. There's a big free-form outdoor seawater pool with whirlpools, waterfalls and geysers, rimmed by sun-bathing terraces and set amid leafy gardens with towering trees. The spa is a highlight – with its heated indoor pool looking onto woodland, sauna and treatment menu – and there's a teen corner offering facials, manicures and pedicures. Get away for the day and borrow bicycles to explore Zlatni Rat, where a string of pebbly coves, shaded by pines, give onto turquoise waters. There are interconnecting rooms available, and in the summer months there's a kids' club at the nearby Hotel Eden.

Everything is child-orientated at this family-meets-design hotel by the sea in Rovinj. On arrival, children encounter a bouncy net installation, where they can jump about and glimpse the indoor pool, the gym and the garden pool. The grounds have rope climbing frames and slides, outdoor pools, volleyball nets and free scooters to whizz around on. There's a kids' club (where painting, crafts and sports-based activities take place), a cinema and 24-hour child care, as well as two beaches, with watersports to enjoy. The adjoining wellness centre has three indoor pools (for babies, children and adults), and offers treatments suitable for youngsters, such as a Glow & Go lemon-based facial aimed at teenagers.

Where to stay in Dubrovnik

If you're after the sort of seaside holiday with plenty of swimming and sports activities, this friendly resort with sublime views over the Elaphiti islands is idyllic, and the residences are ideal for families. There are two pools for little ones, a Sports Academy with football, tennis, water polo and basketball coaching on offer (celebrity sportspeople occasionally make an appearance), and a Marco Polo kids' club offering games, activities and trips, so parents can have some time alone. The Spa meanwhile features an 18-metre indoor pool, a hydrotherapy pool with massage jets and a waterfall, various saunas, and a line-up of lush facials and body treatments.

Cyprus

Rich in ancient ruins, charming mountain villages and large family-focused hotels, Cyprus is a reliable favourite. Set in the south-eastern corner of the Med, the mercury soars here in the summer months, with an average temperature of 30C, but visit during the Easter break and you’ll be rewarded with mild, sunny weather. Recent years have seen a greater number of design-led stays opening their doors in Cyprus – many that cater well to children of all ages, while keeping parents happy, too – meaning it's a terrific bet for luxury and true relaxation.

Anassa is just right for families looking to splash out on a spoiling escape. Given its tranquil location on the sandy beach of Chrysochou Bay, the seriously opulent spa and its gourmet cuisine, it is easy to see why the hotel attracts countless celebrities. Daily life revolves around the sleek infinity pools and terraces, together with a paved area complete with tables and chairs designed to resemble a village square. Staff are efficient yet pleasingly unobtrusive, there are three swimming pools (two outdoor, one indoor) and a kids' club with a programme of well-thought-out workshops designed to suit different age groups. You'll find dedicated menus for little ones at the restaurants, and the spacious two-bedroomed family suites – which can sleep up to six – feature child-friendly furnishings as well as large terraces with picnic-style seating.

Attention to detail knows no bounds at this sprawling seafront hotel – from the exquisite rooms and gourmet-style restaurants, to the great facilities. Highlights include the sandy beach, the outdoor pool with a separate kids’ pool and water slide, the kindergarten play area for those aged three to eight, and the excellent kids' club with a programme of activities for older children. Teenagers can compete in table tennis and court tennis competitions, and get stuck into various art and crafts workshops, while adults can enjoy some peace and quiet at the infinity-style pool that looks out over the water. Most of the restaurants have special menus, and the hotel offers a babysitting service for parents who are keen to have an evening to themselves.

Dramatic in its modernity, with a less-is-more approach to styling, Almyra stands in extensive gardens, neatly tucked in between the seafront and Poseidonos Avenue. All rooms – decorated in white and varying shades of brown – have a balcony or terrace with views of the garden or sea, and interconnecting doors allow guests to book two, three or more rooms to create a private family space. Brand new Mythos Kids’ Club provides age-specific entertainment for toddlers through to teens, while its “Baby Go Lightly” service allows parents to order such items as nappies online prior to arrival, and make babysitting arrangements as required. Other highlights for families include a dedicated pool for kids, interconnecting and family rooms and special child-friendly menus.

Malta

Perhaps this summer you’re after something different. You’ve had enough of pasta by the sea and you're growing a little tired of the children’s endless requests for crêpes au chocolat. In a compact and exquisite package, Malta – with its 300 days of sun each year – offers the ideal city break, in Valletta, with its golden-hued baroque buildings and beautiful beaches. Lying due south of Sicily, in the southeastern Mediterranean, Malta and its neighbouring island, Gozo, is less than four hours away by plane. Everyone speaks English, which makes it an easy transition, and the diving is some of the best diving in Europe: around any of Malta’s three islands you will find colourful marine life in crystalline shallows and fabulous underwater seascapes, including caves, reefs and shipwrecks to explore.

Where to stay in Malta

With by far the most facilities of any hotel on Gozo, this low-rise resort, on the edge of a traditional village near a dramatic stretch of coast, has extensive gardens, pools (two that are family-friendly; one just for adults) and an excellent spa, as well as a choice of bars and restaurants. This is a place to chill out and relax – there are complimentary clubs for children of all ages along with babysitting services, meaning tired parents can catch their breath in the aforementioned facilities. Then for the sporty, there are two floodlit tennis courts and two squash courts. Rooms are large and unfussy, with the option to book mini apartments (complete with kitchenettes) to help keep daily costs down.

Contributions by Abigail Lowe, Anna Nicholas, Carole French, Catherine Cooper, Clare Speak, Eddi Fiegel, Heidi Fuller-Love, Isabella Noble, Jane Foster, Jessica Salter, John Malathronas, Juliet Rix, Kate Bolton, Louise Simpson, Marissa Tejada, Nicky Swallow, Rebecca Tay, Sally Peck, Taryn Ross, Terry Richardson, Victoria Monk and Tina Walsh

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