I Asked Travel Experts Their Top Family-Friendly Hotels In Europe – These 4 Were Clear Winners

The pool at Calcot & Spa (left) and Villa Pia in Umbria.I used to love booking holidays and would relish the chance to write a two-page itinerary filled with activities and restaurants to visit. (I know, a bit much.)But since becoming a parent, even the simplest task of opening up a travel aggregator site paralyses me. I get completely overwhelmed and overthink everything.Should I pick a destination that’s in the UK, or within a short flight distance? Will the hotel be child-friendly? Will the restaurants cater to allergies? Will the room be big enough to fit another bed for my daughter and a travel cot for our youngest? Or, even better, do they have adjoining rooms? Will there be childcare or activities suitable for under-4s? Will, will, will... In the end I shut my laptop and call it a day – and that’s the response I’ve had to booking a holiday for about a year now. If you also have decision fatigue and can’t seem to nail down a place to stay, Frankie Collison and Becky Pennison-Bates, the co-founders of Tiny Travelship, have shared four of the most family-friendly hotels in Europe, which come highly rated by parents.All you need to do is pick one.For a UK trip, choose Calcot & SpaCalcot & SpaWhat a parent says: “With most Kids Club’s operating a strictly over-fours only policy, Calcot & Spa shines as a bright beacon for newly postpartum parents, with attendance to the famed Playbarn [the hotel’s crèche] starting from newborn. And going one step further to prove heaven on earth really does exist, four free hours are included each day of your stay.”Reviewer @frankie1204 loved the family facilities, such as baby monitors being handed over at check-in, dedicated children’s tea times and adjoining rooms.She added: “There’s a seasonal heated outdoor pool (May-October), family swim session in the indoor pool, an outdoor playground and super cute tepee jam packed full of toys. And, a special mention has to go to the food – as it was sensational.”Where is it? Calcot & Spa, Near Tetbury, Gloucestershire, UK GL8 8YJVisit website.For an intimate Italian stay, opt for Villa PiaVilla PiaWhat a parent says: “Umbria’s Villa Pia cleverly combines local living with family facilities, allowing parents to sidestep sprawling resorts for an amenity-rich authentic abode.”Mama @saudadeguide said tots are certainly well catered for because in addition to “a children’s pool heated year round, there is a sandpit, trampoline, indoor soft play, tennis court, ping pong tables and a contained courtyard (including climbing frame and toys)”.Children are served an early supper and then dinner time is an adults-only affair once the kids are in bed. Baby monitors are once again handed out at check-in. “It’s rare to find a place that combines the ease of a good hotel with the warmth of a small, family-run retreat but Villa Pia does exactly that,” reads the review.“Not long after you arrive, you feel like part of a big family and by the end of the week you’ve made new friends, and so have your kids. If you’re after a peaceful, intimate getaway full of authentic Italian charm, Villa Pia will steal your heart... and stay with you long after you leave.”Where is it? Villa Pia, Lippiano, 06010 MSM Tiberina (PG), Umbria, ItalyVisit website.For a village-style retreat, try Viceroy at Ombria AlgarveViceroy at Ombria AlgarveWhat a parent says: “This is for you if you’re looking to escape the coastal crowds (although the beach is less than 30 mins away) and embrace the calm of the countryside.”The accommodation has been described as more of a “mini village” than a hotel resort. There are six restaurants to choose from, as well as a whole host of immersive experiences for guests – think honey harvesting, pottery, basket weaving etc.A newly-opened spa gives parents the chance to unwind while kids over the age of four can stay and play at the Kids Club. Babysitters are available too. The resort also has a dedicated kid’s pool, outdoor play areas and toys to borrow.Reviewer @manonlagreve added: “Particular highlights for us was the incredible food – each and every menu was truly special – and jaw-dropping views. I still can’t get over those pink marble infinity pools. Fleur and I really enjoyed our bread-making workshop and she loved colouring in at the Kids Club, which we are able to stay and play at with her too.”Where is it? Rua da Ombria, Ombria Algarve, Number 9, 8100-396 Tôr – Loulé, PortugalVisit website.For adventure, choose Falkensteiner Hotel MontafonFalkensteiner Hotel MontafonWhat a parent says: “This high-altitude escape is as magical under the cover of snow as it is basking in the sunshine.”Reviewer @frankiewentohollywood continued: “Spanning interests for all ages you’ll find a Kids’ Club (6 months+), soft play, a science lab, Bobby Car Driving School, sports hall and plenty of fresh air excursions on the agenda. Add to that an incredible in-to-outdoor pool, baby splash pad, spa treatments for smalls and DJ booth for the older set.”“A special mention also has to go to the climbing wall, conveniently positioned next to the bar, allowing parents to supervise with a cocktail in hand. The full board fare is also a winner, mixing regional classics with fusion flavours.”Where is it? Latschaustraße 45, 6774 Tschagguns, AustriaVisit website.Tiny Travelship is the go-to for parents seeking gorgeous family holiday inspiration, expert advice and the bespoke service of a luxury travel agency.Related...UK Travellers Must Avoid This Airport Liquid Mistake, Warns Transport SecretaryI'm A Travel Pro, These Are The Best Holiday Destinations To Take Kids And Teens (By Age)Horizn Made The World’s 'Most Durable’ Suitcase – Can It Survive The World’s Clumsiest Traveller?

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