Three family-friendly summer breaks

published 10 April 2009

Looking for a summer holiday to suit all the family? Here are three very different options that will be great for parents and children alike.

An all-inclusive break in Mauritius

Forget having to worry about what the children are costing you in drinks and ice-cream by paying up front with an all-inclusive holiday. These types of holiday have come a long way from the days when they were all about cheap buffets and flourescent wristbands.

Tamassa in Mauritius (above) is excellent for the family. A children's club, pedalos, kayaks and snorkelling will keep your brood happy while you relax in the sun or the spa. "The main draw here is the beach and turquoise lagoon on your doorstep," says The Guardian.

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The all-inclusive package with Key2holidays includes food, drinks, mini bar, watersports, land activities and Kids Club so all you have to worry about is whether to pick a sun lounger on the beach or by the pool.

Key2holidays offers 14 nights for two adults and two children under 12 for £5,425 (with flights from Heathrow) between 20 July and 31 August book by 30 April. Call 020-7963 6600, or visit www.key2holidays.co.uk

Go camping in the British countryside

Small children will love Westerley Campsite in Cornwall. "Down a quiet track, and within tottering distance of the beach, it's a truly mellow option for young families," says Stroud. The farmer who runs the site will be introducing more animals to the campsite this year, including pygmy goats, rabbits, and a Shetland pony, so there's plenty to keep younger children entertained.

Those with older children should consider Tir Bach Farm Campsite in Pembrokeshire. This site has basketball and badminton courts and a football area. The 12 acres of surrounding woodland mean "children have plenty of freedom to explore as a gang", says Stroud.

Westerley Campsite costs £6 per night for adults; £2 for 2-10 year-olds; £4 for children aged 10-14. Call 01736-794853; www.westerleycampsite.co.uk Tir Bach Farm Campsite costs £7 per night for adults and £3 for children. Call 01437-532362; www.tirbachfarm.co.uk

Stay on a farm in Italy

Rooms from €40 a night; apartments start from €65. Call 00 39 0742 78669, or visit www.agriturismoimandorli.com

Ruth Jackson-Kirby is a freelance personal finance journalist with 17 years’ experience, writing about everything from savings accounts and credit cards to pensions, property and pet insurance.

Ruth started her career at MoneyWeek after graduating with an MA from the University of St Andrews, and she continues to contribute regular articles to our personal finance section. After leaving MoneyWeek she went on to become deputy editor of Moneywise before becoming a freelance journalist.

Ruth writes regularly for national publications including The Sunday Times, The Times, The Mail on Sunday and Good Housekeeping, among many other titles both online and offline.