Best luxury family holidays in Europe

We've travelled the length and breadth of Europe to bring you the ultimate in family holidays that combine luxury and parental amenities with a family-friendly ethos. What follows are our top picks on the Continent.

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1) Mas Candille
A five-star grown-ups’ paradise that also welcomes well-behaved children, the Mas Candille in a gorgeous 18th-century farmhouse in a village famed for its gastronomy is great for a special-occasion splurge, combining romance and the atmosphere of a relaxing retreat with a child-friendly attitude Though open all year, it’s best saved for family holidays in summer, when you can take advantage of the pools and grounds as well as the nearby beaches. More about Mas Candille
2) Sheraton Pine Cliffs
Embracing child-friendly apartments plus the Sheraton Algarve Hotel, the Pine Cliffs Resort near the touristy Algarve resort-city of Albufeira is a favourite for luxury family holidays and breaks in Portugal, with Premiership footballers among its clientele It’s expensive on all counts, from most childcare (with a high staff: kids ratio) to the restaurants and shops, but there are well-priced supermarkets close-by for those self-catering. More about Sheraton Pine Cliffs
3) Insotel Club Punta Prima Prestige
Striking a balance between lively and relaxing, Insotel Club Punta Prima Prestige on the southern tip of Menorca is especially good for luxury family holidays or breaks with young kids, who love the mini-disco Parents rate the kids’ clubs highly, although all staff are noted for their enthusiasm (sometimes tipping into over-enthusiasm). More about Insotel Club Punta Prima Prestige
4) Almyra Hotel
A contemporary beach resort with a key focus on children and what matters most on family holidays and breaks in Cyprus. More about Almyra Hotel
5) Martinhal Beach Hotel & Resort
A newcomer to the Algarve’s luxury family-friendly hotel scene, the Martinhal Beach Hotel & Resort is highly rated for its kids’ clubs, with customers divided as to the overall vibe – some find it stylish, others think it a little soulless Many parents also have issues with the strong winds in-resort, though this can take the edge off the heat and make for exciting surfing and other watersports. More about Martinhal Beach Hotel & Resort