If you have school-aged children, it’s unlikely to have escaped your attention that the next school holiday is the long Easter break. With many schools giving two or even three weeks off during April (Easter Sunday falls later in 2019 than in previous years; on the 21st April), you may be wondering how best to fill that time. Many families choose to take a trip over the Easter holidays due to the long bank holiday weekend – not only are the kids free, but the adults may also get some time off. For those having to juggle their family calendars, this can be a godsend.
The summer term of school can be particularly stressful for students who are taking SATs, GCSEs or even the 11 Plus. It may also be your child’s last term at their school due to moving up a year. Taking a break before these traditionally stressful times can do everyone the world of good, whether it’s a short weekend away to relax or a longer trip abroad.
It’s easy to see why so many people choose to take their children on holiday during this time. If you’re thinking about booking a trip away this Easter – either at home or abroad – check out our suggestions to suit all types of families below:
Families who enjoy the sunshine…
Tenerife, Canary Islands
Tenerife is a popular holiday destination with Brits and has been for many years, but even return visitors may have missed out on some of the best the area has to offer. Travelling to Tenerife during April is a great way to soak up some early summer sunshine without having to deal with the crowds of tourists who flock to the island each summer.
Although you’ll be visiting in April, you’ll find that most of the bigger attractions are open all year round and the more tourist-centric areas will be ready to welcome visitors as if it were peak season. You’re more likely to get space on the beach to yourself, and the weather is perfect for the more adventurous, who may want to go trekking in Mount Teide National Park. You can expect 8 to 10 hours of sunshine per day in April, with an average temperature of around 20-25°c.
Families who want adventure…
Mauritius, Indian Ocean
For those who are happy to take a long-haul holiday over the Easter break and fancy something extra adventurous, Mauritius could be the ideal destination. Located in the Indian Ocean and just 35 miles long by 25 miles wide, this island is full of activities guaranteed to appeal to children of all ages.
If you like water sports, there are a multitude on offer, with snorkelling, jet skiing, kayaking and dolphin watching to name a few. Those wishing to enjoy the sea from dry land can do so at the Mauritius Aquarium. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime destination, so if you’re ready for a big holiday to remember, this could well be the destination for you. Just remember to order your currency in advance, as the Mauritian rupee is not a commonly held currency – you can get great foreign currency deals here with H&T travel money.
Families who want to explore their back garden…
Cornwall, UK
Those wanting to stay a bit closer to home may prefer a staycation, where you holiday within your own country. The UK has so much to offer and you may even have undiscovered treasures right on your doorstep. Cornwall is an increasingly popular destination for those wanting to avoid long travel distances, and its mild climate will make you believe it’s summer already.
There are many family-friendly Easter events to enjoy around the county, including ones at fantastic local attractions like the Eden Project and St. Michael’s Mount. The tourist season will not yet be fully underway, so you’re likely to find plenty of space on the beaches, many of which remain dog-friendly until Easter Sunday itself.
Families who need to relax…
Schloss Elmau, Germany
Image Source: Vitold Muratov
If you could all do with a bit of pampering and relaxation, why not take the family on a spa holiday? Many spa resorts are realising the need for children’s spa treatments and activities, and Schloss Elmau is one of them. Set in a German castle with a whole separate spa for children and families on-site – as well as a three-storey spa for adults – everyone can feel like they’re getting the relaxation they deserve. With less-intense steam rooms, saunas and a large warm pool for youngsters to enjoy, the children’s spa will be a highlight of your holiday. The castle also has an award-winning kids’ programme, as well as activities and events aimed at teenagers.
Families with young children…
Bluestone Resort, Wales
Image Source Tim Kiser
Families with toddlers and very young children in tow may not find certain destinations to be suitable for their clan just yet. In this situation, choosing a holiday resort which is built for younger families is always a good idea, as it means everyone will be catered for and parents can relax knowing that there are plenty of kid-friendly activities to keep them safe, happy and entertained.
The Bluestone Resort in Pembrokeshire has the Blue Lagoon water park on-site, free toddler activities and a soft play centre, as well as nature trails and an outdoor playground – perfect for young families.
Families with older children…
Centre Parcs, various UK locations
Image Source: Wikimedia Commons
If you’ve got older children, then it’s likely you’ll all want to spend at least part of the holiday doing your own thing – teenagers like their freedom, after all! Centre Parcs offers UK breaks for families in natural surroundings, with swimming, sporting and adventure activities on offer, bowling, a cinema, restaurants and shops…all within one secure complex. This means that you can let your older children go off and have their own fun, while you enjoy the fact that they’re totally safe and provided for.
Teenagers will love the freedom they can have, and the whole family can get involved in many of the activities on offer. With 5 locations spread across the UK, you won’t have to travel too far to reach a Centre Parcs either.
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