Mountain luxury best ski resorts for families

Mountain luxury best ski resorts for families

For a luxurious break that caters for all of the family, pick between VIP mountain resorts in France, Switzerland, Spain and Italy. With concierge trained in keeping kids enchanted, cosy family suites and outdoor activities, you can take as much time as you need to enjoy crisp white slopes, Michelin-starred restaurants and onsite spas.

Les Fermes de Marie, Megève, France

The epitome of coziness, Les Fermes de Marie is a wood-panelled, warmly lit series of Alpine farmhouses. With an ideal location in the centre of the French Alps, the Chamois lift is nearby, a scenic walk past traditional restaurants, bars, and the stunning Saint-Jean Baptiste church. The Hameau des Enfants, or the Children's Hamlet, provides kids with their very own concierge and a mini-house built just for them, where they can play games and eat together with meals prepared by their own special cook. While they're busy, enjoy award-winning spa “Pure Altitude” and dine in one of the traditional onsite restaurants, which have views of snow-capped Mont Blanc and offer platters of handmade cheeses.

Le Yule, Val d'Isère, France

In popular village Val d'Isère, Le Yule is a resort with a unique family focus. Offering kids direct access to the slopes, chairlifts are located close to the hotel entrance, allowing them to enjoy the slopes with ease. In the evenings, they can sip hot chocolate on the terrace. Meanwhile, you're free to enjoy the slopes and the five-star Scandinavian-style hotel, with fur pelts, sheepskins, wood panelling and balconies with beautiful views of the mountains. Restaurant Le Solstice offers fine dining with a superb selection of seafood and shellfish.

Tschuggen Grand, Arosa, Switzerland

With striking modernist style and 360 degree views of white-tipped mountains, the Tschuggen Grand is a wellness resort which accommodates all the family. Book into their cosy family suites, and in the day your kids can join their Junior Club. In winter, they'll enjoy ice-skating and sledding, and in summer hiking tours and pedalo trips. In the evenings, dine at Le Vetta, which holds a coveted Michelin star and excels in gourmet Alpine cuisine. The wellness center here was designed by star architect Mario Botta, and houses a swimming pool and rock grotto.

El Lodge, Sierra Nevada, Spain

This Finnish-style log chalet is located just two hours away from Malaga, and provides a charming Kids Club and play area that's guaranteed to keep little ones amused. You can find a plethora of games, arts and crafts, all in a wood-panelled room designed by toy-geniuses Minimec. Some of the bedrooms here have their own outdoor jacuzzis on private terraces - with the added gift of spectacular mountain views. Enjoy the quiet slopes next to the hotel's terrace, and nibble on tapas at one of the onsite restaurants. The hotel is also host to the only outdoor swimming pool in the Sierra Nevada - a heated beauty with an unforgettable mountain backdrop.

Rosa Alpina, Dolomites, Italy (photo)

Glamorous resort Rosa Alpina in the stunning Dolomites, is the perfect location for a family break. Kids can keep busy with cooking classes and guided outdoor activities like rock climbing, tobogganing and cross country skiing. Meanwhile, explore the stunning nearby village of San Cassiano, with its cobbled streets, mountain views and two Michelin-starred restaurants. Cosy up in the evening at La Liberia, or The Library, where an open fireplace, well-stocked bookshelves and comfy leather sofas help you unwind after a day on the slopes. Book into one of their doubles which converts into a two bed suite with connecting doors, giving you space to rest and your children a place to play.

Five romantic destinations in Montenegro

Five romantic destinations in Montenegro

With its stunning Adriatic coastline, 200 miles of secret beaches, coves and fjords, combined with picturesque historic towns like the medieval UNESCO World Heritage site of Kotor, Montenegro is a must-visit luxury holiday destination.Venture inland to explore scented pinewood forests, olive groves and mountains. The country is perfect for a romantic break - follow in the footsteps of old Hollywood stars Elizabeth Taylor and Sophie Loren, with a unique visit to the Mediterranean you'll never forget.

Aman Sveti Stefan (photo)

Sveti Stefan, a small orange-roofed island connected to the mainland by a narrow isthmus, has been developed into a luxurious hotel by award-winning Asian chain Aman (their first real venture into Europe.) This former fishing village, built with heavily fortified walls, was originally designed to ward off wandering pirates and has remained exactly the same since its construction over 500 years ago. In the 1960s, hollywood heavyweights Sophia Loren and Elizabeth Taylor were attracted by its exclusive charm. It's a secret warren of five star rooms waiting to be discovered.

Lake Skadar

On the border with Albania, this stunning lake is one of the top bird habitats in Europe. Walk or cycle around the proximity, or take a boat ride across the clear waters. A tour on the water will reveal the ancient hillside monasteries, floating reefs of waterlilies and hidden beaches, which you can then explore later from the quiet shore. It's the largest lake in southern Europe, and the Montenegrin section has been a national park since 1983. After birdwatching, visit Vinarija Bogojevic, a family run winery with a stunning view of the lake.

Stari Bar

Montenegro's own Pompeii, Stari Bar is a ruined Byzantine fortress-city, surrounded by mountains and olive groves. First conquered by the Venetians and then the Ottomans, it was abandoned after an explosion at the beginning of the 20th century. Wander around the steep, crumbling streets and take in some of the sights, including a 17th century hamam (Turkish baths) and 11th century fortress. The site is also home to one of the world's oldest olive trees, named Stara Maslina - said to be over 2,000 years old. For a bite to eat, traditional restaurant Kaldrma serves top notch japrak (stuffed vine leaves.)

Kotor

A beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site, the old town of Kotor was once the home of traders and famous sailors. Wander around its narrow streets and stone buildings, beneath towering city walls. It was built like a maze to confuse invaders; so don't feel put off if you get lost. Don't miss the Cathedral of Saint Tryphon, a monument of its past Roman culture. It's location on the edge of mountain-rimmed Kotor Bay makes for stunning views, and some of the surrounding villages are worth a day trip. Journey to Baosci, where you can visit the ruined house of Victorian writer Pierre Loti, who was once inspired by the scenery here.

Budva

Budva's atmospheric Stari Grad (Old Town) has been around since the 5th century BC, hidden away by historic stone walls that were built by the Venetians. Climb up to the top of the ancient citadel to look over the charming squares and winding streets. In summertime, numerous local performances bring the town to life. Stay 200 metres outside of the Old Town in characterful Hotel Majestic, a four-star offering filled with antiques and charm. Outside of the historic centre, it's clear why the town has been nicknamed the “Montenegrin Miami.” The 17 wide sandy beaches are fringed with chic bars and clubs, which you can hop between into the early hours of the morning.

The top golf destinations in Europe

The top golf destinations in Europe

From sloping seaside courses with a breeze to inland retreats at the edge of mountains and lakes, Europe is where you can find some of the best golfing in the world. Accommodation ranges from castles to grand hotels, and onsite fine dining and spas ensure your visit is as relaxing as can be. Try courses designed by world renowned golf designers, terrains used for professional cups and in sunny southern Europe, courses which are just simply pleasurable to play.

Bro Hof Slott, Sweden

Located a short drive from Stockholm, Bro Hof Slott Golf Club is located in the grounds of a historic Swedish castle on the shore of stunning Lake Mälaren. You can find two of Europe's best golf courses here, imagined by Robert Trent Jr., one of the world's top golf course designers. Try the Stadium Course, and enjoy the challenging route which follows a lakeside path. After a fresh day out, retreat to the Grand Hôtel in Stockholm, a historic institution which has housed celebrities since 1871. Admire its views of the ocean and the old town, and enjoy the infamous smorgasboard offered at restaurant Veranda.

Oceânico Vilamoura Old Course, Portugal

Set among scented pinewood and gently undulating terrain, this golf course still tops lists as one of the most challenging in the world. Oceanico Vilamoura is the second oldest golf course in the sun-kissed Algarve region, landscaped in the English design style, with a unique 522 metre challenge on the 16th hole. Rest up at Blue & Green The Lake Spa Resort, one of the finest five-star hotels in the Algarve, and enjoy their panoramic private balconies with views over the marina of Vilamoura, Falesia Beach and the hotel's private lake.

The Belfry, England (photo)

Set in 550 acres of bucolic North Warwickshire countryside, the Belfry is a four star resort which combines world-class golfing with top notch facilities. The golf courses here need no introduction, having hosted the Ryder Cup four times previously. Try the PGA National Course, perfect for players who love a creative challenge, with its severe runoffs and fast running fairways. Relax after you play in the onsite spa, which stocks ESPA's award-winning products. Their unique couples spa experience, Fire and Ice, is a 90 minute journey through 12 bio thermal rooms and a perfect way to unwind.

Dolce Fregate Provence, France

With its view of the Mediterranean sea and gently wooded course, Dolce Fregate Provence golf course is considered one of the most beautiful in Europe. In the heart of scenic Provence, dotted with olive trees, lavender fields and vineyards, the resort is an ideal getaway. As well as some of the finest golfing in the region, the resort has an onsite spa, indoor and outdoor pools, saunas and jacuzzis. Try the Fregate golf course, a 72 par experience over a varied and gently undulating landscape, and then welcome in the evening with a glass of locally produced wine.

Riva dei Tessali, Italy

In sun-drenched southern Italy, the Riva dei Tessali Golf Resort is the setting for one of the most relaxing golfing holidays around. Their onsite four-star hotel is a delightful sprawling complex of whitewashed buildings and pine trees, while the award-winning restaurant serves up a variety of local Puglian specialities, as well as continental breakfasts with locally made cheeses and cured cuts which can be washed down with expertly made cappuccinos. Try the pine tree studded signature Riva dei Tessali course and let its gentle twists and turns hone your accuracy. To cool off afterwards, stroll down to the private beach and enjoy a swim in the azure Adriatic sea.

The best walking summer holidays in Switzerland

The best walking summer holidays in Switzerland

The scenery in the Swiss Alps is some of the most stunning in Europe. Sunny wildflower meadows lie between the slopes of epic, snow-capped mountains, and grand hotels are located next to quaint, cobblestone towns. For keen walkers, Switzerland in summer is a paradise. There are trails for all levels here, from gentle, well-paved valley routes, to more challenging walks that take you higher for crisp mountain air and unforgettable views.

The Haute Route

This spectacular mountain route was first charted by the English Alpine Club in the 19th century, and is still popular today. While you no longer need mountaineering skills, a good level of fitness is recommended. Start in Chamonix in the French Alps and finish in the stunning alpine village of Zermatt, Switzerland. Allow 14 nights for this journey among some of the epic mountains of the Alps, including Mont Blanc and the Matterhorn. You'll also wander among some of the highlights of the Alps in summer, like rural villages and flower-covered meadows, along with glaciers and towering mountains. If you're after a little more luxury than the simple Alpine huts dotted on the route, stay at VIP hotels like Hotel Mont.Lac, a hidden chalet-style hotel in lake town Champex.

Berenese Oberland

For a shorter break, enjoy a section of some of the stunning trails that criss-cross the Berenese Oberland region, in the canton of Bern. Over five days, lose yourself in a wonderland of crystal-clear lakes and snowy mountain vistas. Stop for refreshments at traditional villages, like quaint Grindelwald, nestled in a verdant valley, then continue to mender beneath the impressive peaks of the Eiger, Mönch & Jungfrau. Stay at historic Alps hotels like Hotel Wengener Hof, built in 1898, and refuel yourself with indulgent Swiss fondues and locally-made chocolates in their a la carte restaurants.

The Val d'Anniviers

In the French-speaking canton of Valais, the picturesque Anniviers Valley is a luxurious base for a week of walking. Rather than undertaking a route, stay at renowned Grand Hotel Bella Tola, and spend each day exploring a different section of the valley. Built on a terrace overlooking the Matterhorn, enjoy the historic charm of this 19th century hotel and wander around the quaint village of St. Luc and its chapel, located on a forested hillside. After walking around the grassy valleys and along the banks of the wild River Rhone, relax in a traditional wood-panelled restaurant and sample home-made Swiss chocolates.

Tour du Mont Blanc (photo)

Over ten days, enjoy this route through stunning scenery and the shadow of Europe's most iconic mountain, Mont Blanc. Start and finish in picturesque resort town Chamonix and wander over the French border, passing glaciers and mountain lakes. As you walk between the boundaries of Italy, France and Switzerland, rest in storybook villages, like La Fouly, a pretty settlement situated at the foot of Mont Dolent. Sleep in style at luxurious hotels like Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc, where chalet-style accommodation is combined with VIP facilities like an onsite spa.

The Via Alpina

A classic alpine route that stretches not just across Switzerland, but all the way from Trieste to Monaco, the Via Alpina can be enjoyed section by section. In Switzerland, enjoy a ten day journey along the western stretch of the trail. You'll enjoy the scenic views of the Jungfrau, Mönch and Eiger, walking from stunning alpine village Grindelwald and finishing on the shores of Lake Geneva. Finish at lakeside town Montreux, considered the capital of the Swiss Riviera. Don't miss a chance to stay at Hotel Splendid, where you'll sleep in a castle dating back to the 1800s, built over the lake.