A wonderful review of a location perfect for younger kids
The Balearic Islands lie off the Eastern Coast of Spain.
They are made up of four islands, Ibiza, Formentera, Mallorca and Menorca, each one as charming as the next. Autumn is the perfect time to visit the islands. With direct flights to Menorca, Majorca and Ibiza from Ireland they can be reached in a little over 2.5 hours - perfect for travelling with children. September sees the rush ending and lower temperatures allows for peaceful siestas but more importantly it makes day time more bearable for your little ones.
Accommodation choices are plentiful, with anything from great value private villas to all-inclusive luxury hotels, whatever your taste and budget the Balearics has an option for you. Travelling in September is fantastic value with packages currently starting at €379pp for Menorca. Shop around to watch out for the best deals that are around coming to the end of the summer. Families with young children not yet in school can take full advantage of the savings and get a good value break that could cost two or three times the price during peak season. Ask your travel agent about free child places and if there are any meal or all-inclusive offers running. There can be some huge saving to be made when including meals and drinks that would normally come in expensive during the summer months.
Each of the islands has its own charm with some resorts more family friendly than others. The islands really cater to all types of visitor (even those who manage to manage to get away without the children in tow). You can find accommodation to suit all ages with some offering fantastic kids facilities from babysitting to safe playgrounds and pools. It is wise to check if kids’ clubs are running off peak as some only operate for July and August while some others operate only run when minimum numbers have been met.
Of the three main islands Menorca is one of the lesser known but is a paradise for families. Being named a UNESCO designated biosphere has ensured that this beautiful island is safe from over development that can ruin so many destinations. With over 40 beaches to choose from, many of them safe little coves ideal for children. Menorca is great for younger families and has a more laid back and relaxed way of life. There is a lot of choice of family accommodation, water parks and plenty to do should you want to!
Majorca is a much busier island and has enough to keep you entertained for your whole stay. There are numerous water parks to choose from, pirates a plenty at the Pirates Adventure Dinner Show, Caves of Drach, Palma Aquarium, Fantasia mini golf and Kathmandu theme park is well worth a visit! Alcudia, Palma Nova, Cala D’or and my favourite, Puerto Pollensa are great family resorts.
When I recommend Ibiza most people imagine clubbers and all night parties. Ibiza has so much more to offer than its nightlife. It is another beautiful island trying to move away from the reputation it has gained over the years. Santa Eulalia, Cala Llongs and Es Cana are all family friendly resorts with plenty of safe beaches, accommodation with children’s facilities and water sports. The beauty and charm if Ibiza is hard to ignore once you are there.
Image credit: www.spain.info