If you’ve not yet joined the smug ranks of those who have their summer sorted, and are starting to panic that the holiday ship may have sailed without you, fear not. We’ve found a whole range of hotels and rentals from the Kids Collection, which still have decent availability for families in the school holidays. But get a wriggle on and book before they fill up completely!
Le Castel, Normandy, France
With space in spades both inside and out, and a relaxed house-party attitude, you’ll love holidaying at this Normandy chateau set in 4 acres of idyllic countryside. All rooms are 2-bedroom suites, there are family BBQs on Saturdays, and kids’ meals are served at 5pm daily.
Book it: suites available all July
Med-Inn, Bodrum Peninsula, Turkey
A tranquil boutique hotel with restaurant, bar and a private beach, just 10 minutes from the airport. And lovely friendly staff. And a kids’ menu in the seafood restaurant. And an abundance of sun loungers for parents… What are you waiting for?
Book it: rooms available all summer bar the second week in August
Castello di Tornano, Chianti, Italy
This fairytale Tuscan castle is set atop romantic wooded hills, has a long history (a former owner had a pivotal role in developing the Chianti blend), yummy restaurant and lovely gardens in its huge estate, yet is refreshingly unpretentious; you and your family will feel instantly at home.
Book it: 2-bedroom family apartments with kitchenettes available through most of July and August
Merlin Farm Eco-Cottages, Cornwall, UK
For a tranquil great-value escape in the countryside, just a short stroll from a sandy beach, you’d be hard-pressed to top this trio of cottages (+ barn conversion). The stylish renovation includes double-height windows for superb valley views, well-equipped open-plan kitchens, and luxe details such as underfloor heating and REN toiletries.
Book it: availability from mid-August onwards
Casas do Coro, Portugal
You’re well off the beaten track, close to the Spanish border, in these self-catering cottages crafted from an ancient hilltop village. Yet the welcome is warm, the organic home-cooked food in the restaurant is superb, and the shared pool provides a great communal focus for families.
Book it: space all summer
Levendis Estate, Ionian Islands, Greece
Hole up here for a week or 2 and cares will melt away. You’ve a stunning infinity pool to float in, breath-taking views from your verandah and peace of mind as the estate is gated. The cafe’s produce is home-grown, organic and delicious, and oodles of space because there are just 4 cottages.
Book it: 20% exclusive i-escape discount on 2-week stays in July and August; rates include car hire per cottage, private return transfers, first breakfast and maid service
Chalet Cannelle, Alps, France
Families don’t think of the Alps as a summer destination, which means they’re missing out! Prices plummet, the views remain stupendous, and there are heaps of outdoorsy activities to try. We love this gorgeous 5-room chalet which operates as a B&B in the summer season: it has great home-cooking, wonderful hosts, a games room, and safe gardens.
Book it: space all summer, including for whole chalet bookings
Almyra, Paphos, Cyprus
For lovers of a one-stop-shop (multiple fine restaurants, a choice of pools, superb Kids Clubs for all age ranges and a wealth of family-friendly facilities, stellar service, comfy luxe accommodation), this design hotel delivers in style. A great holiday for the whole family, guaranteed.
Book it: space all summer
Soncna Hisa, Prlekija, Slovenia
Set in tranquil countryside 2 hours east of Ljubljana, with parental pampering provided by the gorgeous sauna, Jacuzzi and massage menu – as well as the attentive charming staff who can’t do enough for you and your children – this beautiful contemporary hotel is a real find. Light-filled interiors, modern art, sumptuous and cleverly comfortable rooms; we found it charming.
Book it: reduced rates exclusively for i-escape guests all summer
Culloden Cove, near Whitehouse, Jamaica
This dreamy staffed villa won our Best Newcomer Kids Collection Award in 2014 for its gorgeous grounds that give onto turquoise seas, its infinity pool, baskets of toys, airy interiors, and a separate cottage in the ground which is ideal for grandparents or teenagers.
Book it: available until 18 July, and again from 26 August
Our full collection of family-friendly hotels with summer availability >>