This year England was treated to the warmest September on record since 1911 – that’s over a century! But, that’s not all that makes September special though – it’s also emerged that late September is the most popular time for childbirth in the UK, meaning that many new parents will have been grounded over the summer and unable to get away in anticipation of their new arrival.
Whether you’re nursing a newborn, or just shy of those terrible twos, we’re sure you’re looking for a way to celebrate all the good-weather birthdays. To help you out with your decision, we’ve put together five terrific destinations which will have both you and your little one laughing and paddling in a heavenly climate. Plus, you get to avoid the raucous summer crowds, as older kids are now back at school.
Majorca
First on the list is the tourists’ favourite, Majorca, which has a flight time of just over two hours, meaning next to no time for your little one to get agitated. Upon arrival you’ll be greeted by a friendly wave of warmth – your baby’s first introduction to this incredible island. With many last minute holidays to Majorca, you can also find yourself a great deal.
Among the many family-friendly resorts are Alcudia, Cala Bona, Ca’n Picafort and Santa Ponsa, which lead the way for grand resorts with children’s play areas, kiddy’s splash pools and plenty of activities to keep you occupied.
Portugal
Portugal’s Algarve is a family-friendly destination to rival any other, with villas, hotels and apartment complexes with special additions to keep parents with babies happy. From cots to high chairs, many of the accommodation options in the Algarve will understand those newborn needs.
Even the restaurants have baby seats and separate pools for kids, plus there are 85 Blue Flag awarded beaches to enjoy, including Albufeira and Lagos. That means clean, clear and shallow water for the whole family.
Tenerife
Tenerife is another short-haul destination, and one which has repeatedly been named as the perfect baby-friendly holiday hotspot. Playas de las Americas is the island’s capital, with resorts specifically designed for families, but there are plenty of family-friendly spots all over.
Siam Park should be top of the list for baby entertainment. As the largest waterpark in Tenerife, Siam Park has also got tonnes for little ones. Float around with your newborn in the splash pool and watch their faces light up.
Ibiza
You probably weren’t expecting to see this all-star party destination on this list, but the truth of the matter is Ibiza is fast becoming a favourite family holiday hotspot too. Ibiza may have a hedonistic reputation, but it’s actually about more than that, specifically, inclusion and positivity towards everybody from 6 months to 90-years old.
If you want to totally avoid the party vibes, then hit Cala Tarida, a relaxed resort which is ideal for little ones who love to build sand castles and splash around in the shallows.
South of France
The obvious baby-friendly destination in France would be, of course, Disney Land Paris. However, it’s unlikely that a tot that tiny will fully appreciate Mickey and the gang just yet. The next best thing is the South of France, where a fantastic range of family-friendly hotels are ready to welcome you and your little one.
Specifically, the Dordogne, which attracts wave upon wave of families every year who flock here to enjoy the broad lakes and verdant landscape. You’ll be able to find even the youngest kids a spot to paddle in cool waters, and with all the trees around finding shade is easy. Ice creameries in Limeuil and a petting zoo in Le Bugue, are just two of the many attractions that young ones can enjoy.
Let us know which destination is top of your list in the comments below.