When I first had Oscar, I worried that travelling with children would mean compromising on the hotels I loved: beautiful design, wonderful food and the sort of service that makes a holiday feel like a holiday. I’ve since discovered that the best luxury family hotels can be exciting for children but also perfect for parents too.
I’ve stayed at every hotel in this guide, from beach resorts and ski hotels to private islands and safari lodges. Some trips were with Oscar and Noah; others were before I became a mum, and I’ve looked at those hotels again through a parent’s eyes. They’re quite different from one another, so I’ve shared who I think each one suits and the details I’d want to know before booking.
FYI some of these hotels are only recommended for older children, I have noted where this is the case.
My top picks of the best family hotels in the world
If you want somewhere to start, these are the ones I’d choose for different kinds of family trip:
- Best with a baby: SAN SONNEA Family Dolomites (formerly Sonnwies), Italy. We first went when Noah was six months old and loved it so much that we went back a year later. It’s designed around families, but still feels like a relaxing holiday for parents.
- Best for a family ski holiday: Das Edelweiss, Austria. Easy access to the slopes, excellent spaces for different ages and the swimming pools our boys wanted to visit every day (as did I!).
- Best for an easy beach holiday: Ikos Porto Petro, Mallorca. Beaches, brilliant dining and the freedom of having so much included. I’d choose it when I wanted the holiday logistics taken care of.
- Best for parents who love design and wellness: Six Senses Kaplankaya, Türkiye. The spa and peaceful setting are a huge part of the appeal, while children have beaches, pools and activities that fit the hotel’s philosophy.
- Best UK hotel: Gleneagles, Scotland. We loved the interconnecting rooms, thoughtful touches for the boys and the sheer choice of things to do together.
- Best once-in-a-lifetime trip with older children: Singita, South Africa. I visited before having children and it remains one of the most extraordinary hotel experiences I’ve had – I cried when I left! Singita Lebombo and Boulders welcome children over ten.
Europe
I have a separate guide to the best luxury family hotels in Europe, so I’ve been especially selective with the European hotels here. If you’re planning a trip closer to home, you’ll find more of my favourites in that guide.
Austria
Familien Natur Resort Moar Gut
We were really blown away by Familien Natur Resort Moar Gut as it has true heart and really is all about the children and creating meaningful experiences. The location in Salzburg is perfect for a winter holiday and the organic farm on site is stunning. There are soooo many activities!
In winter, there’s a learner ski slope for small children at the hotel, as well as sledging and sleigh rides. The rest of the year brings animals, horse riding, playgrounds, pools and a natural bathing lake. Parents have their own spa time too, while there are even treatments designed for children and babies.
Naturhotel Forsthofgut
We came to Naturhotel Forsthofgut in the Austrian Alps when Oscar was a baby, so it holds very special memories for us. It’s an absolute beauty: a family-owned hotel in Leogang, Salzburg, with nature and sustainability at its heart.
Mr S absolutely loved skiing here, while I thought the adults-only spa was one of the best I’ve ever seen! It’s a place where parents and children can each have the kind of holiday they want.
Das Edelweiss Salzburg Mountain Resort
Das Edelweiss Salzburg Mountain Resort perfectly combines alpine luxury with mini adventures for kids, spa heaven and delicious mountain cuisine. Located in the picturesque Grossarl Valley, south of Salzburg, it’s a hotel fringed with snowy peaks and ski slopes.
Skiing is the main activity and it’s easy to step straight out of the hotel to the cable car. Kids can join the ski school too. When they aren’t skiing, there are age-appropriate areas to explore: the Baby Mountain Area for under-threes; Edelweiss Prinzenland with a cinema, play kitchen and Montessori-style toys; the Young Mountain Area with a ninja course, climbing wall and trampoline; and, for older children, Cool Mountain with PlayStation and iWall.
We loved our family swims every day, from the gorgeous outdoor pool to the baby pool, the “big” pool as Noah called it, and the pièce de résistance: the slide room! There’s even a family spa with a whirlpool and sauna suitable for children. The supervised kids’ club for over-threes is included with half board, while care for under-threes costs extra.
Planning a trip to the mountains? I’ve shared more of the places we’ve stayed in my guide to the best luxury family ski hotels in Europe.
Cyprus
Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol
Parklane, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Limassol, Cyprus ticks all the boxes for family-friendly luxury. There are 222 rooms, 34 suites and 18 villas, plus a spa, beach, four pools, six bars and restaurants, and a shopping village.
We absolutely loved the Nammos restaurant and all the amazing shopping. The children loved Explorers Kids Club, which is one of Europe’s biggest at around 3,000 square metres and even has its own water park.
France
Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris
Hôtel Plaza Athénée in Paris is completely stunning and absolutely legendary. And the breakfast? One of the best I’ve ever had, yes please! It’s the sort of hotel I’d choose when I wanted the full Paris experience, beautiful surroundings and all, with my children along for the adventure.
Despite all that elegance, families are very much welcome. There are connecting rooms and spacious suites, welcome gifts for children and even a miniature afternoon tea. The hotel also has a Family Time offer with breakfast and a discount on a second room, which is worth checking if you’re booking for two adults and two children under 12.
Greece
Amanzoe
I chose Amanzoe in Greece’s Peloponnese for Mr S’s 40th birthday. He wanted sunshine, a pool, a cold beer and absolutely no rushing around, and I knew I’d got it right as soon as we arrived. The architecture is breathtaking, the pavilions are wonderfully spacious and the service has that quiet Aman magic where everything seems to happen before you’ve even asked.
We went before having children, but I can see why I’d want to return with Oscar and Noah. There are children’s pools at the resort and Beach Club, plus a summer programme of games and crafts inspired by Ancient Greece, from mosaics to myth-inspired masks. Children can also try yoga and ceramics. It would be a very different sort of family holiday from Sani for example: peaceful, beautiful and with plenty for the boys to discover.
Sani Resort
Sani Resort in Halkidiki is Widely regarded as one of the greatest hotels for families, Sani really is the GOAT. I’ll admit I was sceptical before we went. I’d never been a fan of big hotels, but everyone kept telling me how brilliant Sani was with children. We stayed at Sani Asterias, the smallest and most boutique of its five hotels, and I finally understood why everyone loved it.
Our suite opened straight onto the pool, which made life so easy with Oscar: we could get him ready in the room and step outside for a swim. I loved having the quieter Asterias pool and beach, while still being able to use the children’s facilities elsewhere in the resort.
If you’ve never stayed at Sani, the setup can sound confusing. It’s five different hotels around a marina, each with its own feel, with shops and restaurants that guests can enjoy across the resort. Choosing the right hotel makes all the difference.
We chose Sani Asterias for its quieter, more boutique feel, especially as we were travelling with my in-laws. If you’re going with younger children and want the kids’ facilities on your doorstep, Porto Sani or Sani Beach may suit you better. I’ve explained the differences between all five hotels in my full Sani review.
Planning a trip to Greece? I’ve included more of my favourites in my guide to the best luxury family hotels in Greece.
Italy
Borgo Egnazia
Borgo Egnazia in Puglia is a dreamy hotel for families, modelled on a traditional Italian village. We loved wandering around the little streets and square, where there were dinners, markets and performances during our stay. The restaurants were incredible, the whole place has such a chic feel, and the gelateria near our room became an essential late-night stop!
It’s cleverly divided between Il Borgo, where we stayed with the boys, and the more grown-up La Corte. Our casetta had room for all four of us, and the family pool, playground and kids’ club were close by. Meanwhile, La Corte has the adults-only pools, spa and Michelin-starred restaurant. It really is a place like nowhere else.
SAN SONNEA Family Dolomites (formerly Sonnwies)
SAN SONNEA Family Dolomites, which we visited when it was called Sonnwies, is one of our all-time favourite hotels. This luxury family-only resort in South Tyrol has that wholesome, alpine feel we loved, but it also caters for everyone from tiny babies to teenagers. Noah was only six months old on our first visit and was looked after beautifully.
The hotel is based on a working farm, with nature and wellness at the heart of the experience. It’s completely centred on children while still feeling luxurious for parents. We loved it so much we’ve actually been twice, which is very rare for me! The kids’ club is one of the best we’ve ever seen, and childcare is included.
Grand Hotel Tremezzo
Grand Hotel Tremezzo in Lake Como is so beautiful you’ll feel as though you’re in a movie. Mr S and I stayed before we had children, for our wedding anniversary, and I loved its yellow Art Nouveau façade, orange awnings and old-fashioned Italian glamour. It’s grand without being stuffy: there’s even pic ’n’ mix at reception, which we couldn’t resist every time we walked past!
I’d return with the boys for the gardens, the pools (including that famous one floating on the lake) and a boat trip to explore Lake Como’s villages. There are family suites, children’s menus, a pizza restaurant too, they even have their own boat. For me, this is one for a family that wants the romance of Lake Como with children along for the adventure.
Spain
Ikos Porto Petro
We chose Ikos Porto Petro in Mallorca for our first holiday as a family of four. With a new baby and Oscar in tow, the shorter flight and the promise of an easy all-inclusive stay sounded very appealing. I think Mr S’s favourite part was the quiet pool, while I was rather taken with the fact that even the champagne was included!
There are five pools, two beaches and plenty of restaurant choices, but what made the holiday work was the flexibility. Oscar would spend the morning swimming with us, then run off happily to the kids’ club with his cousin in the afternoon. There’s a crèche for younger children too, though Noah was too little for us to use it at the time. With two young children, having everything taken care of was a real pleasure.
Nobu Ibiza Bay
Nobu Ibiza Bay was the first hotel we took Oscar to when he was just ten weeks old. “Ten weeks old and already in Ibiza!” was the greeting he got when we checked in, which still makes me smile. I’d been a little nervous about our first trip with a baby, but the hotel made it feel easy. Our suite had plenty of room for his cot, and we could have breakfast overlooking the bay or order Nobu room service (of course there’s a Nobu on site!) depending on Oscar’s mood. Not a bad introduction to family travel!
Nobu has all the style you’d expect, but it really does welcome families. There’s a family pool as well as an adults-only pool, and we loved being able to eat so well without leaving the hotel. Oscar was far too tiny for the kids’ club then, but we had a look for future reference: it’s for ages 4–12, with activities including DJ workshops, basket weaving and cooking sessions.
Türkiye
Six Senses Kaplankaya
Six Senses Kaplankaya near Bodrum, Türkiye (Euro / Asia), was our choice for a week away with friends and all our children, and it was such a special holiday. The hotel feels wonderfully secluded, with beautiful natural design that almost disappears into the hillside. Our favourite moments were afternoons on the beach and little sunset pool parties at our friends’ villa while the children splashed about.
What I love about Six Senses is that children get to experience the things that make the hotel special too. There’s a family beach, playgrounds and the Grow With Six Senses kids’ club, where activities draw on nature, food and local culture. Meanwhile, I had one of the most relaxing massages I’ve ever had in the enormous spa! The food was another highlight, from the freshly made gözleme at breakfast to sunset dinners at Mezze by the Sea; Oscar even loved the salmon sushi. It’s a peaceful place where evenings are for long dinners and watching the sun go down rather than loud shows.
UK
Estelle Manor
Estelle Manor in Oxfordshire caught my eye on Instagram with its striped pool umbrellas and gorgeous interiors, but it turned out to be brilliant with children too. For me it’s one of the most beautiful hotels in the UK.
We stayed in a Walled Garden suite, which gave us a separate living area for Oscar and plenty of room for Noah’s cot. Oscar loved splashing around during the children’s pool hours, but I think his favourite moment was getting behind the wheel of a Little Landie and driving off-road around the estate!
There’s lots more for children to do, from exploring the grounds to activities at The Nook kids’ club and supervised holiday programmes. For parents, the restaurants and interiors make it feel like a proper luxury escape, and Eynsham Baths is a spectacular adults-only spa. I loved that we could spend the morning having fun with the boys and still enjoy somewhere that felt special for us.
Gleneagles
After visiting Gleneagles in Scotland, I had a new standard for UK luxury family hotels! We went with my sister, her children and my mum, and our interconnecting rooms worked brilliantly for the four of us. Noah had a cot, a tiny robe and a cuddly squirrel waiting for him, while Oscar got his own robe and adventure pack. Even the slippers came in little sizes.
There is soooo much to do here. We loved taking the boys off-roading in little Landies through the woodland, then heading back for a swim in the family pool. Little Glen offers play for younger children, while older kids have The Den and an outdoor adventure programme. The food is another reason I’d return: we could have a proper grown-up dinner at Andrew Fairlie, while the boys were in heaven at the Garden Café’s ice cream shop and pick ’n’ mix. My mum and I even found time for a chocolate and coffee tasting in the hotel’s chocolate room. I mean, what more could you want?
See more of my favourite luxury hotels in the UK.
USA, Caribbean and Mexico
The Beverly Hills Hotel
I dreamed of staying at The Beverly Hills Hotel since I was a child. It’s basically a pink palace, or Barbie’s dream house, with palm trees, tropical gardens and all that old Hollywood glamour. I finally got to stay there on our honeymoon and loved imagining the stars who had been there before us. The famous pool, with its shady cabanas, was every bit as glamorous as I’d hoped.
We visited before having children, but it’s a hotel I’d love to return to with Oscar and Noah. The pool welcomes families, and the hotel currently has a Family Time offer with up to 50% off a second connecting room, children’s welcome treats and a VVIP card they can use for complimentary juices and soft drinks. Champagne for the parents, of course!
Cavallo Point
Cavallo Point , in Sausalito sits at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, on the site of a former army base. Mr S and I stayed here for a night on our honeymoon, and I remember thinking, “An army base? That doesn’t sound very SilverSpoony!” But the old officers’ residences have been beautifully restored, with rocking chairs on the porches and incredible views across the bay. We chose a contemporary suite up on the hillside and woke up to a postcard-perfect view once the fog had cleared.
We visited before having children, but I think they’d love exploring the old fort. For a family stay, I’d look at one of the historic suites with a separate living area or a contemporary room with two queen beds. The Bay Area Discovery Museum is also right in Fort Baker, with Sausalito and San Francisco to explore nearby.
Rosewood Mayakoba
I visited this Rosewood Mayakoba in Mexico before having children, but even then I remember thinking how magical it would be for them. You arrive at your suite by boat, gliding through the lagoons and mangroves. My friend and I had a huge lagoon suite with its own plunge pool, and I’ll never forget Champagne o’Clock by the beach pool. Quite possibly the best poolside treat ever! The Sense spa was also one of the best I’ve visited. Anyway, I digress…
Rosewood Mayakoba has put real thought into family stays. Rosewood Explorers offers a kids’ club for children aged four and over, with everything from cooking and mocktail making to eco-tours, cenote adventures and Mexican themed evenings. There are practical touches for younger children too, including cots, baby baths and child-size robes and slippers. The wider Mayakoba resort has other hotels to explore, but Rosewood would still be my pick. I’d love to return with Oscar and Noah and see what they make of that boat ride!
Sugar Beach
Sugar Beach, St Lucia Caribbean has one of the most beautiful settings I’ve ever seen. It sits between St Lucia’s two Pitons, with powder-white sand below and the mountains rising behind it. Mr S and I stayed in a spacious villa with our own plunge pool, and I could have spent the whole holiday admiring that view. We visited before having children, but it’s somewhere I’d love to experience with Oscar and Noah.
The V Team Kids Club runs supervised activities for ages 4–11, including treasure hunts, coconut bowling, fish feeding and sandcastle building on the beach. Older children have the Spice Club, with games and watersports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Between the beach, family dining and all that space to explore, I can see why children would have such a brilliant time here. And if you can tear yourselves away, I’d make time for the chocolate-making experience at Hotel Chocolat too!
Petit St Vincent
Petit St Vincent, in the Grenadines is barefoot luxury on a gorgeous little private island. I stayed in a cottage high on the hillside with sweeping views, a hammock and complete privacy. It’s a total digital detox (hooray no screens for the kids!) and there was no television or Wi-Fi in the cottage. I wondered how I’d cope without being online. It took me surprisingly little time to settle into island life! My favourite detail was the flag outside the cottage: raise the yellow one for room service or a lift in one of the island’s cute Mini Mokes; raise the red one when you don’t want to be disturbed.
I visited before having children, but there are two-bedroom beach cottages that I think would make a wonderful family escape. Children of all ages are welcome, with babysitting available, and there are beaches, boat trips and watersports to fill the days. There isn’t a kids’ club, so I’d choose it for a holiday spent together: swimming, exploring and properly switching off. Parents also get excellent barefoot dining, a beautiful spa and a wine cellar with more than 6,000 bottles.
Asia
The Maldives
Gili Lankanfushi
Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives in the Maldives lives by the motto “no news, no shoes”. You hand over your shoes on the boat and spend the rest of the holiday barefoot, which I absolutely loved. It’s only about 20 minutes by speedboat from Malé airport too, a huge win after a long flight with children. Mr S and I visited as a couple, and our overwater villa was enormous. The food was truly excellent, the spa was exceptional, and we loved watching a film at the outdoor Jungle Cinema.
I’d love to return with Oscar and Noah when they’re older. There are spacious family villas and plenty to do, from cycling around the island to snorkelling, kayaking and cooking. One word of warning, though: every villa is over the water. With a toddler who likes to wander, I think I’d spend the whole holiday on edge! For families with older children, it could be magical. The current Gili Family Time offer includes complimentary accommodation, children’s-menu half board and transfers for up to two children under 12 with a minimum four-night stay.
Velaa Private Island
Velaa Private Island, Maldives might be the most luxurious hotel I’ve ever stayed in. Mr S and I arrived by seaplane, were handed champagne and met Didi, our butler, who looked after us beautifully throughout the stay. Our overwater villa was enormous, with its own full-sized pool and a window in the floor for spotting fish below. It felt extraordinary, but still welcoming and comfortable rather than showy.
We stayed before having Oscar and Noah, and I’d love to see it through their eyes. Alongside the spa, golf, tennis and incredible dining for parents, Velaa has a seriously impressive children’s club, Lha Velaa, with water play, creative activities and space to climb and explore. The club was redesigned with Worldwide Kids, and its childcare team is validated by Worldwide Kids and the Luxury Childcare Association. They’ve even hosted a special Kids Week with Sharky & George (who we’re big fans of), which feels very Velaa! I’d check the dates before booking if that’s part of the appeal.
It’s the sort of place where a family could have a truly special holiday together while everyone finds something they love.
Hong Kong
The Upper House
The Upper House, Hong Kong is one of my favourite city hotels. Mr S and I stayed there before having children, and I fell for André Fu’s beautiful design, the views over Hong Kong and our bathroom, which I could quite happily have spent the whole trip in! It feels calm and sophisticated, which is exactly what I’m looking for after a day exploring such a busy city.
It might not be the first hotel you think of for a family trip, but children are welcome and a sofa bed can be arranged for under-12s. Nearby Pacific Place Apartments also has a Children’s Residency with a jungle-themed playroom, wooden toys and a reading corner, plus bookable activities including Baumhaus music sessions and a children’s nail bar. I’d check access and availability when booking, but I love seeing family experiences with the same attention to design as the hotel.
Japan
Mandarin Oriental, Tokyo
Mandarin Oriental Tokyo, Japan was our base for exploring the city before we had children, and I absolutely loved coming back to those incredible views each day. It’s in Nihonbashi, which I think is quieter than some of Tokyo’s busier districts while still being well placed for sightseeing. From the hotel you can gaze across the city and, on a clear day, even spot Mount Fuji. I think Oscar and Noah would love that!
Mandarin Oriental does family stays beautifully. Its Families by M.O. offer includes a spacious two-bedroom suite for up to four, breakfast for two adults and two children, and complimentary children’s-menu meals for under-12s at K’shiki or through room service when dining with a paying adult. There’s also a pizza bar, which could be very handy after a full day exploring Tokyo!
Ritz Carlton, Kyoto
Ritz Carlton, Kyoto, Japan – Is a haven of pure serenity for adults but it’s great for kids too. Mr S and I stayed before having children, and I still remember the waterfall at the entrance, our view over the Kamogawa River and how beautifully the hotel brought touches of traditional Kyoto into a modern luxury stay. There’s even a Pierre Hermé macaron shop inside. I mean, that alone nearly won me over!
I’d love to return with Oscar and Noah. Ritz Kids offers a treasure hunt through the hotel, balloon art and an origami workshop that families can do together. Those feel like such fun ways to introduce children to their surroundings while parents still get to enjoy the serenity that made me fall for the hotel.
Gora Kadan
We stayed in Gora Kadan in Hakone back before we had kids and when I was putting this post together I was interested to see if they allowed kids and I’m very happy to see that they do and staying in the ultra-luxury ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) was a really special experience and the kind of thing I’d like to share with my children. Ok, it’s not really right for toddlers or babies (though they are allowed) but older children will get something really amazing out of the experience.
Our stunning suite had it’s own private onsen (hot spring bath). The rooms blend traditional Japanese aesthetics (tatami mats, sliding paper screens) with luxury modern design and you can choose Western style beds or futons. A highlight is an authentic kaiseki cuisine, which is a traditional multi-course dinner – sophisticated foodie kids will love this too. They can offer child-sized yukata (casual robes), sandals, and toothbrushes as well as other baby amenities.
Singapore
Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands, Singapore is a bit of a Marmite choice for me. It’s billed as a luxury hotel, but when Mr S and I stayed, parts of it felt more like an airport than a peaceful escape! That said, it is undeniably thrilling. There’s a huge shopping centre, more restaurants than you could possibly try and (most excitingly!) the famous SkyPark infinity pool on the 57th floor. The pool is divided into an adults-only area, a family-friendly section and a dedicated children’s pool, which is helpful to know if you’re visiting with kids. Swimming with Singapore spread out below you is quite an experience, although it was very crowded when we visited and didn’t feel particularly luxurious.
For families who want to be in the middle of the action, it has become a good option. The Sands Family Suites have children’s bedrooms with bunk beds and access to The Play Den for guided play and crafts. There’s also the Sands Family Explorers package, which currently includes breakfast, access to the ArtScience Museum and teamLab’s Digital Light Canvas, a Rori adventure pack and dining credit. I’d choose it with children for the sheer excitement of the place, while going in knowing it’s a busy hotel.
Fullerton Bay
Fullerton Bay is my hotel of choice in Singapore and is definitely the more luxurious option. The waterfront setting is gorgeous, and our room looked straight across to Marina Bay Sands. One evening we watched its light show from the hotel’s rooftop bar, with cocktails and little bites to eat. That’s still one of my favourite memories of the city!
We visited before having children, but the hotel’s current Family Funtastic offer makes a return with Oscar and Noah tempting. It includes breakfast for two adults and one child under 12, an extra bed for a child subject to availability, and little treats such as an ice cream pass and colouring set. There’s also a take-home Merlion statue for children to paint, which feels like a much more memorable souvenir than another toy from the airport.
Thailand
Four Seasons Koh Samui
Four Seasons Koh Samui, Thailand has stayed in my mind as one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve visited in Thailand. Its hillside setting feels wonderfully private, and our villa had a deep bath, its own pool and a deck overlooking the Gulf of Thailand. I loved spending time at the coconut-fringed main pool and eating at Pla Pla by the beach. I’d love to return with Oscar and Noah; this time I’d choose a Family Pool Villa, which is designed for two adults and two children.
There’s plenty to do together, from swimming and beach time to cooking activities and films under the stars. Kids For All Seasons offers a complimentary programme, while the spa has treatments for children and teens. The hotel also has thoughtful practical touches for little ones, including baby equipment on request, and children aged four and under can dine for free at the resort’s restaurants when accompanied by their parents. It feels like a place where you could have a proper family holiday without losing the peace and privacy that made us love it.
It’s my life’s motto that you can’t go wrong with the Four Seasons.
Trisara, Phuket
Trisara means “The Garden in the Third Heaven”, and our stay was simply celestial. It’s one of the most beautiful hotels we’ve ever visited. We loved the elegant design of our Ocean View Villa and its huge 10-metre private pool, which seemed to drift right into the ocean. It’s still one of the most beautiful villas we’ve stayed in.
We visited before having children, but Trisara now has a staffed kids’ club with games, crafts and outdoor activities, as well as villas and larger residences with room for families. Parents have plenty to look forward to too, including PRU, Phuket’s first Michelin-starred restaurant, and more relaxed dining by the beach. I’d love to return and see how Oscar and Noah take to that pool!
Read my review (this is a really old post! So lots of the info is out of date but it still gives you an idea of the hotel and room etc).
Four Seasons Chiang Mai
Another one of my all-time favourite hotels, Four Seasons Chiang Mai sits in the Mae Rim Valley, about half an hour from the city. It’s built around a working rice field, complete with resident buffalo, and the whole place is gorgeous: gardens, water features and architecture inspired by traditional Thai temples. Mr S and I stayed in a pool villa with an enormous private pool and its own water garden. I still think it’s one of the best villas we’ve ever had!
We visited before having Oscar and Noah, but I would love to bring them back. The La-On Kids Club offers activities rooted in Thai culture, and children can try rice planting, pottery and tie-dye rather than spending the whole holiday indoors. Families can still get out to explore Chiang Mai, then return to all that space and peace. Children aged four and under currently eat free at the resort’s restaurants when dining with their parents, while those aged 5–11 receive half-priced meals.
Read about our stay at Four Seasons Chiang Mai
Four Seasons Golden Triangle
Yes, Four Seasons are ridiculously good for families, so here’s another one — although Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle is only for children aged nine and over. I’m including it because it’s one of the most special places I’ve ever stayed, and I think it would be magical to experience with older children. Hidden in the jungle of northern Thailand, its luxurious safari-style tents feel suspended among the trees, with beautiful handmade furnishings that made Mr S and me feel like jungle explorers.
The elephant encounters are what make it unforgettable. Families can learn about the rescued elephants and their mahouts, observe them in their jungle habitat and watch their morning bathing ritual. The camp is remote, with all-inclusive stays built around meals and experiences, so it feels like a proper adventure together. I visited before having Oscar and Noah, but this is one I’m saving for when they’re old enough to come with me.
Read about our stay at Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle
Philippines
Amanpulo
‘Amanjunkies’ will be familiar with this uber luxury resort in Amanpulo in the Philippines. The entire resort is set on a private island (you arrive by private plane!), so it’s very peaceful, with the pool and beach feeling like quiet havens. Aman hotels are known for truly exceptional service, and the staff here are some of the best I’ve encountered, so both parents and children will have smiles on their faces.
Our beach casita was huge and right on the beach. There are larger villas too, some with private pools, and everyone gets a golf buggy to drive around in — something kids will seriously love. There’s a kids’ club and plenty of activities on offer for little ones.
Bali
Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay
The Four Seasons strikes again! Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay is the perfect beach resort for families in Bali. There are beautiful, spacious villas and even residences with private terraces and pools, and we loved Sundara, the hotel’s gorgeous beach club. There’s so much on offer for families too: the Umah Rare Kids Club, beach toys, bonfires and marshmallows, family surfing lessons, kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. Waterbom Bali water park is within easy reach, and children aged four and under dine free.
Viceroy Bali
Viceroy Bali is one of the most luxurious places to stay in Ubud, the spiritual heart of Bali. Mr S and I stayed before we had children, and I still remember the view from our private pool across the lush jungle valley. It was my favourite hotel of that Bali trip!
It’s a lovely choice for families too. The Family Deluxe Villa has two bedrooms, two heated infinity pools and a shared deck, giving everyone plenty of space. Children can try activities such as kite making and learning to make traditional Balinese offerings, and the hotel offers babysitting if parents fancy some time to themselves.
Alila Villas Uluwatu
Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali is an absolutely stunning design hotel that seems to hang off a clifftop, and I was surprised to discover how child-friendly it is. Every chic, spacious villa has its own pool, but I’d still make time for the hotel’s incredible infinity pool. The sunset cabana perched at the end of it is one of those places I still remember years after our stay.
Families can book larger villas with room to spread out, and the hotel’s Journey for Little Champs offers experiences to enjoy together, including camping, dressing up, gardening and movies under the stars. It would be amazing if you want to share the more creative side of Bali with your children while staying somewhere that feels very special for parents too.
Middle East
Dubai
The Burj al Arab
The Burj al Arab, Dubai is one of the most iconic and luxurious hotels in the world, and we actually took Oscar there when he was a baby. Yes, there are more child-friendly places in Dubai (a place known for being incredibly child-friendly!), but I wanted to try the famous sail-shaped hotel just once! The rooms are literally incredible: two-storey suites with sweeping staircases and so much space, and you get your own butler. Kids will love the nightly sweetie train that comes directly to the room. We were also given lots of amenities for Oscar, including a cuddly toy personalised with his name!
Obviously there are incredible high-end restaurants (this is Dubai after all), but there’s lots for little ones too. Kids will love the pool deck, which was quite new when we went. We hired a cabana there and they even put a cot inside so Oscar could nap while we sat outside — such a brilliant little detail. There’s also a small kids’ club, and babysitting can be arranged.
The One and Only Royal Mirage
One and Only Royal Mirage is a huge hotel in three different parts that feels more like a village. The more family-friendly Arabian Court is separate from the more adult space known as The Residence and is a hotel that suits all generations.
The location between city and beach is really breath-taking and something both kids and parents will appreciate. There’s 65 acres of landscaped garden meaning plenty of space to run around and it’s far enough away from the city to still be peaceful. There are multiple pools (including family areas), a private beach and lawn games.
KidsOnly Club offers supervised activities for children aged 4–11, including arts and crafts, sand play, games, sports, pizza making, treasure hunts and henna painting. Under-fours can join in with a parent supervising them. The club is complimentary, and there are plenty of places to eat across the resort, with options for family dinners as well as adults-only dining.
Read my review
Four Seasons Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
Four Seasons Dubai at Jumeirah Beach prides itself on being a family resort. We visited before we had children, but it would be one of my top choices to return to with Oscar and Noah. What I loved was how personal it felt: it’s easy to find your way around, and Mr S was so happy by the pool that I practically had to drag him away for lunch!
There’s an active pool for children all year round, plus a private beach and family cabanas. Parents can request all those useful little things, including toys, games, children’s toiletries, nappies, high chairs, buggies and mini bathrobes. The complimentary Kids For All Seasons programme has supervised activities for ages 4–12, while a private dinner in a beachside cabana sounds rather special for the whole family.
Oman
Six Senses Zighy Bay
Six Senses Zighy Bay still holds amazing memories for me. We took Oscar here when he was a baby and I’m desperate to go back. It’s absolute perfection! We had a huge villa right on the beach with a private pool, so baby Oscar could sleep inside while we enjoyed our terrace. The atmosphere is pure barefoot luxury, with no need to get overly dressed up, and your Guest Experience Maker is there to help with the logistics.
There are several beach and pool options, and we loved the cinema under the stars and our dhow cruise. Chaica’s Club is for children aged 4–10, with activities such as crafts, beach games and treasure hunts. Older children have their own Teen Club, with adventures including archery, hikes and raft building.
Australasia
Australia
Silky Oaks
Silky Oaks Lodge is an incredibly special hotel in Queensland, overlooking the Mossman River and neighbouring the Daintree Rainforest. Older children will be totally thrilled by the chance to stay in a treehouse, with so many experiences where the rainforest meets the reef. Families can explore the Daintree on guided walks, take a 4WD safari or wildlife tour, and learn about the area with Kuku Yalanji guides.
There are adventures on the Mossman River and the chance to visit the Great Barrier Reef, all with Silky Oaks as your luxurious base. I also loved the restaurant overlooking the rainforest, where the menu makes use of ingredients from the kitchen garden.
Good to know: Silky Oaks Lodge welcomes children aged 10 and over.
Longitude 131
Longitude 131 is one of the most spectacular hotels I’ve ever stayed in. It’s a luxury tented camp overlooking Uluru, with views across the desert to Kata Tjuta. There are just 15 luxury tents, plus a two-bedroom pavilion, so the experience feels intimate and personal. It really is a once-in-a-lifetime place.
Your stay includes guided walks and experiences that help you discover the landscape and its history, as well as wonderful food and drink. There’s also the signature dinner under the stars at Table 131°, which is every bit as magical as it sounds. I loved that so much was taken care of, leaving us free to enjoy being somewhere extraordinary.
Good to know: Longitude 131° welcomes children aged 10 and over.
Bora Bora
Four Seasons Bora Bora
Maybe Bora Bora isn’t the first place you’d think to travel with kids, but Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora could change your mind! There’s absolutely loads for children here (and adults, of course). The Kids For All Seasons programme takes place at Tamarii Club for ages 5–12, with a playroom, outdoor playground and shallow splash pad. Activities range from hermit crab races and coconut painting to arts and crafts.
The lagoon is a huge part of the experience too. Families can explore it with a marine biologist, book a treasure hunt boat trip or try a diving lesson together (introductory lessons are for ages 8 and over). There are larger beachfront villas if you want more space, and children under five eat free, with kids’ menus available for older children. Quite a way to do a family holiday!
Africa
Morocco
Kasbah Tamadot
Kasbah Tamadot, Richard Branson’s amazing retreat is one of the most beautiful hotels I’ve stayed in and consistently appearing in ‘best of’ lists. Every room is unique; we stayed in a wonderfully luxurious Berber tent, but families can also choose one of the larger riads. The mountain views are insane, and I loved the gardens and the Moroccan food.
Children of all ages are welcome, and the Kasbah Kids Club is for ages 4–12. Younger guests can try garden treasure hunts, Moroccan crafts, cooking classes and nature walks, while teenagers can head out on guided hikes or get stuck into a cooking lesson. It’s a gorgeous way to experience the Atlas Mountains together.
Kenya
Angama Mara
Anagama Mara in the Masai Mara is one of the most incredible safari lodges I’ve stayed in, perched 1,000 feet above the Maasai Mara. Its name means ‘suspended in mid-air’ in Swahili, and with those views, you really do feel as though you’re floating above the plains.
Children of all ages are welcome, with activities every day alongside the game drives. They can spend a morning with a Maasai warrior, go on a Shamba Scavenger Hunt in the vegetable garden, bake with the chefs and learn beading from Maasai women. Families can book connecting tented suites and arrange child-minding, while a private safari vehicle gives you the freedom to plan drives around your children. If you’re travelling with children aged six or under, a private vehicle is required for most family bookings. The food was a highlight for me too: meals are included, and you can eat in all sorts of beautiful spots, at times that work for your family.
Giraffe Manor
Giraffe Manor, Nairobi in Kenya is famous for its resident herd of wild giraffes, who sometimes poke their long necks through the windows at breakfast hoping for a treat. Afternoon tea in the gardens is another chance to meet them. I was completely amazing when we stayed and of course, you don’t need me to tell you why kids will love it here!
The manor itself is beautiful too, with the feel of a rather grand family home. There are family suites, and a stay includes meals and entry to the neighbouring Giraffe Centre, where children can learn more about these extraordinary animals. The giraffes come and go as they please, which makes a visit from one feel even more special.
Sasaab
Sasaab, Samburu, Kenya is a stunning luxury tented eco-lodge with breathtaking views across the Laikipia Plateau. Children of all ages are welcome, and families can enjoy game drives, camel adventures and plenty of pool time. Older children might also love quad biking, although that’s generally for ages 12 and over.
The guides can arrange a mini ‘Samburu Olympics’, and while adults sip sundowners, children can toast marshmallows over the campfire. There are even paper and paints in every tent! It’s these little touches, alongside the huge safari adventures, that make Sasaab feel so lovely for families.
Zanzibar
Mnemba Island
&Beyond Mnemba Island is an absolute dream paradise island off the coast of Zanzibar. With only 12 bandas, including a Family Banda, I’ve honestly never stayed anywhere with such personalised service. Every morning the chef would discuss our meals for the day with us, and at sunset we’d have fresh fruit cocktails and sushi delivered by our private butler. You can track turtles, have a sandbank picnic, snorkel, take a sunset dhow cruise… oh, and the meals and selected drinks are included!
Children are welcome, however, no more than two children under 12 can stay on the island at any one time. Children visiting can enjoy the WILDchild programme, with activities such as baking turtle biscuits, planting trees, meeting fishermen, helping the conservation rangers and hand-line fishing from a dhow or the beach. There’s sea kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding too.
South Africa
Singita Lebombo and Boulders
Singita Lebombo and Boulders, Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand, South Africa are safari lodges beat Disney hands down as the most magical places on earth. Singita Boulders is still the best hotel I’ve ever stayed in. I cried when we left! The rooms are incredible, the all-inclusive food is world class and the service is the best I’ve ever experienced. And that’s before I even begin on the safaris, where we saw all of the Big Five.
For children, there’s so much beyond the game drives, including stargazing, birdwatching, cooking classes, swimming, arts and crafts and a Mini Rangers’ course. Boulders welcomes children aged 10 and over; Lebombo generally does too, although younger children can stay in its Two-Bedroom Suite. Other Singita lodges have different age policies, so it’s worth checking which one suits your family.
Read my review of Singita Boulders
Read my review of Singita Lebombo
Tsala Treetop Lodge
Though Tsala Treetop Lodge near Plettenberg Bay welcomes children aged 12 and over, I think it would make an amazing adventure with older kids. The rooms really are proper treehouses, perched above the forest, and families can book a two-bedroom treetop villa with its own private pool.
There’s plenty to do around Plettenberg Bay too, from whale watching and boat trips to Birds of Eden, Monkeyland, horse riding and ziplining. It’s a brilliant base for exploring this part of the Garden Route, though I’d be quite happy spending some time up in the trees!
La Residence
When I was putting together this post, I had to cast my mind back, as I visited most of these hotels before I had children. I assumed La Residence in the Winelands, an eclectic, ultra-luxury boutique hotel on a private 30-acre wine estate, would be adults only. But when I checked, I discovered it’s actually brilliant for families!
Children can explore the estate on walks or bikes, pick flowers and meet the miniature ponies, Tango and Twist. They can also try Junior Masterchef classes, painting and drawing, and flower arranging. There’s even a Parent’s Night Out, when the activities team hosts children for pizza making, a movie and popcorn while parents enjoy an evening to themselves. Childminding can also be arranged.
Good to know: Children of all ages can stay in the Vineyard Suites or Franschhoek House; the main hotel welcomes children over 10.
The One & Only Cape Town
The One & Only Cape Town isn’t my favourite Cape Town hotel – I think it lacks some of the character of the city’s other amazing properties – but it is a good base for families. It’s right on the V&A Waterfront, with spacious rooms, family suites and a lovely pool.
KidsOnly is one of its biggest selling points for families, with supervised games, crafts and cooking activities. There are plenty of dining options too. Oh, and it has a Nobu, which always wins points with me!
Putting this guide together reminded me how many extraordinary hotels I visited before I had children, and how much I’d love to return to some of them with Oscar and Noah. Every hotel here is somewhere I’ve stayed myself, but they offer quite different kinds of family holiday. Some are brilliant when you have little ones and want everything made easy; others are adventures I’d save for older children.
That’s part of the fun of choosing. Which of these child-friendly hotels would you book for your family? I’d love to know!
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