Recline & enjoy family-fun hotels

Family travels anywhere in the world require the presence of both leisurely and thrilling activities, a homely feeling, and plenty of room for cosy quality time with loved ones. If you have dreamed of a paradise-like family get-together, take a look at these 8 getaways for family-fun.

Taylor River Lodge, Almont, USA

The contrast between school or office and the Taylor River Lodge couldn’t be more significant. Lightyears away from civilization and miles away from the nearest house, this getaway in the American state of Colorado is tucked away between pine trees. Mother Nature is the only neighbour here. Six cabins are scattered around this 8-acre family getaway, which is surrounded by mountains and long stretches of forest.

The lodge owners have managed to translate the natural surroundings into beautiful decoration; the dark wood and traditional woodcarvings indeed are eye-catching. Nature is essential, as the most popular endeavours are white water rafting, rock climbing, fly fishing, and axe throwing. Back to nature, without sacrificing any comfort, the bathhouse is equipped with a sauna and hot tub, there is an outdoor barbecue area, and a game room with table football, a pool table and darts. elevenexperience.com 

Six Senses Douro Valley, Portugal

Douro Valley has been eroded out from a wild flowing river, that created space for the vineyard this Portuguese paradise is known for nowadays. Six Senses has embraced the grape culture and the mountainous landscapes, connecting them to the services provided. It’s not all about liquor and luxury though; after crossing the doorstep, the guest is catapulted into a new universe of family-friendly adventures, with options such as mountain biking, canyoning, and rock climbing in the rugged nature that keep everyone engaged. Even from the indoor pool, the lush greenery outside is visible, as well as from the massage tables and yoga epicentre in the open air. The accommodations are casually decorated; modern furniture, and many grey and white tones emphasize the impressive size of the rooms. Meals on site are composed of harmony of fresh ingredients; vegetables and herbs are picked on demand from the garden on the property itself. sixsenses.com

The Resort At Paws Up Greenough, MT, USA

Large parts of the American state of Montana are crossed by roaring rivers and dotted with unexplored wilderness, mountain peaks, and pine forests. Amidst this pristine outdoors lies Paws Up, an extensive range with luxurious lodges and glamorous tents. All with unique views of forest land, rolling hills or the Rocky Mountains that cut through Montana. Animal lovers will enjoy the presence of countless cows and horses that gently graze on the golden fields of the range. Activities on the massive range include horse-riding, ATV-driving, shooting with bow and arrow, and canoeing. Culinary needs will be pleased by the range’s own chef, who throws lavish barbecue feasts and serves a la carte dishes right in front of your accommodation. This enormous range hosts two restaurants, as well as a wine cellar to ideally partner the chef’s creations. pawsup.com

Casa de la Siesta, Cadiz, Spain

The Spanish region Andalusia is a playground for explorers and younger family members, the Sherlock Holmes’ to be. With flamenco, fiestas, medieval castles, and the calming waves of the Mediterranean Sea never far away, this Iberian area might be one of the most family-friendly destinations in southern Europe. Casa de la Siesta, nearby the charming city of Cadiz, lets you drift away from daily nags. Casa, in this case, stands for ‘lush manorial estate’. Outside the backdrops are overwhelmingly tranquillizing; nothing but rolling hills and farmlands stretch as far as the horizon is visible. Calming down is key, facilitated by two large pools, wonderfully arranged gardens and vineyards to wander through. Inside wood burning stoves, wooden beams, and bricks breathe an authentic air. While the adults sip on fabulous beverages on the private terrace, the kids can follow an Andalusian baking class, go hunt for treasures or practice Spanish dancing skills. casalasiesta.com

Gibb’s Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

Safaris in search of wildlife, cultural enriching walks through local villages, and comfy cottages; Gibb’s Farm in Tanzania displays a concoction of the raw and sophisticated. The characteristic, dark wooden interior of the living room embraces the blessed ones who stay here like a silky pillow. The young travellers can kick off their vacation by spotting animals in the surroundings with the provided binoculars. Wash away the jetlag and soreness in the limbs on deckchairs. What’s on the menu on the private balcony? Endless grasslands, bird concerts, and sumptuous meals accompanied by home-made mulberry jam and locally grown fruits. The range of activities is impressive; safaris in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, spa treatments, bread baking, and an afternoon tea on your own veranda. On days without activities planned, it’s rather tempting to stay in Gibb’s Farm and soak in the satisfaction. Fireplaces, farm-to-table meals, and artsy decorations make the farm life dangerously addictive to live. gibbsfarm.com

Atlantis The Palm Dubai

This iconic hotel is the icing on a lavish cake called Dubai. All ingredients this metropolis has gained fame for are adapted and topped by Atlantis The Palm. Entering the heavenly resort is like walking into a mall, zoo, wellness retreat, and theme park all at the same time. Waking up with bubbles might sound like consuming a refreshing drink, but the fact that these bubbles are blown by gigantic fishes swimming in front of the suite’s window leaves plenty of travellers in absolute awe. While the children release energy roleplaying at the Atlantis Kids Club,  adults can burn additional holiday calories in the ShuiQi Fitness Centre or unwind in the yoga room surrounded by large aquariums. Meditate with the fishes, and let the tastebuds dream away over a plate with Arabian, Lebanese, Japanese or Italian specialities in the many restaurants. Rooms range from the Ocean Room with gorgeous sea views to the Royal Bridge Suite that comes with a dedicated team of personal chefs and butlers. atlantisthepalm.com

The Shore Club, Long Bay, Turks and Caicos Islands

Pamper yourself and the family with an unwinding visit to the secluded Caribbean coral islands Turks and Caicos, located 100 miles north of the Dominican Republic. The Shore Club deals with sore limbs and minds, getting you in the vacation mood with its splendid suites and villas. Kickstart the day with watersports, tennis sessions, or simply hangout time on the private patio. Absorb the views of the garden, pool or the Caribbean Sea and its crystal clear water. The villas can accommodate up to 14 guests and are a perfect fit for family get-togethers. Thanks to the heated whirlpool, private sauna, and a barbecue grill, precious memories are always just inches away. theshoreclubtc.com

The Mulia Bali, Indonesia

Holistic pleasures await you in sun-kissed Bali, especially in 5-star resort The Mulia. The interior expresses modern-oriental vibes, with lots of bamboos and wooden furniture. The sea possibly is the strongest point of The Mulia. Not only can children and young adults experience holiday sensations such as stand-up paddling and football on the beach, the sea also is a unique supplier to the fragrant kitchen that never stops delivering exquisite dishes to the dining tables and the laid-back outdoor lounges. The Mulia is a wonderland for any traveller; the pool that kisses the sea, deck chairs, a spa centre, a gym, and the MuliaKidz Club with entertainment for the youngest ones are just a brief selection of assets. All suites come with beach and ocean views, and a whole lot of features. Bubble away in the outdoor jacuzzi, or request for drinkable bubbles with the 24-hour butler service. themulia.com ◼

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© This article was first published in June-July 2019 edition of World Travel Magazine.