Greece is one of our absolute favourite destinations for families. Easy to get to and with a fantastic climate, beautiful coastlines with warm waters (perfect for swimming), sandy beaches, historic ruins to explore, stunning countryside, excellent food, and top resorts, all combine to make it a fantastic choice for family holidays.
With so many islands to choose from, working out exactly which area to visit and where to stay can be a challenge, so with the help of our Greece expert Julia, we have selected five of our favourite resorts which offer the very best accommodation, facilities and services for families – four are on the mainland whilst one is on the island of Crete. We also cover sailing because this really is one of the best ways to explore all those stunning islands and bays and Julia personally believes this is one of the best ways to holiday together as a family. For further details on any of these options and to discuss arranging the perfect family getaway in 2018 please call us on +44 1993 899 430.
Mainland
Part of the Luxury Collection by Costa Navarino, The Romanos is set amid lush olive groves overlooking the Ionian Sea. Golf lovers rejoice… the resort is well known for its two championship courses which offer impressive sea and river views for players. In addition to golf, there is a Racquet Academy for tennis, squash and badminton. Endless watersports are on your doorstep, including sailing, snorkelling, diving and wake boarding, along with land activities, such as mountain biking, climbing and go-karting. The Anazoe Spa is well worth a visit with its extensive array of treatments based on ancient techniques.
Facilities for children: There is a dedicated club for babies and one for children aged 4 to 12 which lays on original activities including eco-walks, gardening and golf.
This luxury resort sets the bar for high-end hospitality in Greece. It also has a fantastic location; with sweeping 360 degree views across the surrounding countryside, perfectly placed for exploring bustling Porto Heli, and a short distance from many Greek archaeological sites. Service here is true to the Aman collection's notoriously high standards, with endless attention to detail and incredibly personal service, for both adults and children alike. Although Aman hotels do not usually have a huge focus on children, this resort is an exception to the rule. Accommodation works well for families with private villas or pavilions which are arranged over different levels to maximise the views. And if you fancy a day at the beach then Amanzoe Beach Club is perfect for R&R by the waters' edge, or non-motorised watersports for the more active ones.
Facilities for children: Although there is no dedicated club, children are very well looked after here – staff design activities around children’s interests rather than following a set list of weekly activities.
Peligoni
Described as a sun drenched home away from home this members-only resort (membership can be obtained when booking) offers a truly relaxed, fuss-free destination to soak up the sun and enjoy life by the coast. There is a real emphasis on watersports here, with RYA qualified instructors ready to give confidence to beginners and help experts refine their techniques. Try your hand at sailing, water skiing or paddleboarding, to name just three possible options. A wide range of high quality accommodation is available in villas and cottages which are dotted around the resort – each is different allowing you to choose your favourite.
Facilities for children: This is a fantastic resort for children of all ages with plenty to do. Teens can socialise in a fun and safe environment with the help of resort events like pizza and mocktail evenings.
Cape Sounio
Cape Sounio is a lovely family resort and easy to get to by transfer from Athens. Set in a National Park over 5000sqm, tucked high up in the hills among the trees, this is a beautiful hideout and perfect for a holiday away from the crowds. Its setting is authentic, with the striking ruins of the Temple of Poseidon located across Sounio Bay opposite the resort – stunning when lit up at night. Accommodation is well suited to families with private bungalows or villas, many of which have their own private pool and are individually decorated. The location of the resort on the Athens Riviera means there is plenty to see and do if you choose to venture outside of the resort, including the Olympic Marina which has a wide range of motor boats and yachts for hire.
Facilities for children: The Grecoland Kids Programme is truly extensive and offers children from 3 years to 13+ a wide range of activities. There is a focus on environmental and conservation activities which adds an educational aspect to the fun.
Crete
Set at the end of the Elounda peninsula overlooking the island of Spinalonga (the setting for the acclaimed Victoria Hislop novel, ‘The Island’) this exclusive resort is a popular choice for families with extensive facilities and lots of things to do. Accommodation is spacious and makes the most of the amazing views. Choose from suites with separate living areas or villas, some of which even have their own fireplaces and pools. The resort's private beach allows you to find your own space and relax as a family. And if you fancy getting out on the water then a caique (traditional wooden fishing boat) trip is a lovely way to appreciate the coastline's little bays and islands.
Facilities for children: The Blue Palace Kids Club caters for the resort's younger guests (ages 3 to 12). With activities including golfing, horse riding and go-karting, there is plenty to keep them occupied. They can even relax with a selection of young travellers' treatments available at the Elounda Spa.
Greece is quite simply amazing for sailing. Whether you’d like to spend your whole holiday on the water (a week or even a month) or just enjoy a day trip out and about, then Greece really is the place for it. It’s a fantastic family activity and gives you the opportunity to explore all the areas that are harder to reach by land. In your own yacht, you set the schedule and can go where you want – perhaps a secluded bay or an out of the way restaurant – the options are truly extensive. Whether you would like to skipper your own yacht or would like to have a crew to do the work for you, it is something we would strongly recommend trying.
A family holiday is a special occasion and we understand you want it to be perfect. Our extensive knowledge of Greece means we are well placed to arrange a wonderful holiday for you and your family there in 2018. To find out more about any of these resorts or to discuss other options please call us on +44 1993 899 430 or click here for more contact details.