September may traditionally seem like the end of the summer holidays, a time when children go back to school and workers reluctantly traipse back into their offices brown from their holidays but blue for being back. But September is in fact a fabulous month for getting away, especially if you have young children who are not yet in school.
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In this month, Mediterranean destinations are top of our list of recommendations as weather conditions are predictably good and crowds are few and far between, meaning a safer environment for your baby or toddler.
The overpowering heat experienced across many southern European countries in mid-summer has returned to a more bearable level in the late 20s, early 30s on the centigrade scale – far more acceptable for delicate skins on a beach holiday. And, because water temperatures are still excellent for swimming and prices remain low, September really is an excellent time to get away.
But the Med is not the be-all and end-all of our September holiday recommendations. There are still some excellent places to see and go outside of Europe too at this time of year. So read on to find out where we give our official stamp of approval for the very best family holiday destinations in September.
Where to go
I loved travelling with my family in September… lower prices, no madding crowds, and even if we’ve been away for an early summer holiday it feels oh, so decadent to have a second one just when everyone else is going back to work!
For September think European beaches and Mediterranean islands – Cyprus, Crete and Halkidiki, the Algarve, Sicily and the Canary Islands. But if you want to go a little further afield and you are real sun-worshippers then you might consider Oman or Dubai. Here temperatures will be starting to come down from the roasting desert summer heat but will still be in the 30s and 40s, so you can still have a hot holiday in September. A visit to these destinations at this time of year is a chance to top up your tan, enjoy the numerous amazing activities and experiences laid on for you, or take the opportunity to simply relax and do nothing in luxurious and exotic surroundings.
Our favourite places to stay in September
Here are just a few of the amazing family-friendly hotels that we have stayed in while we visited a few of these destinations:
Almyra, Cyprus
This magnificent five-star contemporary hotel overlooking the sparkling ocean and golden beach at Paphos is an amazing holiday destination. For the little ones there are crèche facilities and kids clubs, baby concierge, freshly prepared children’s meals, shaded pool areas, an exciting playroom and adventure playground, and babysitting services. And their unique ‘Baby Go Lightly’ service enables you to book everything from car seats to carriers, bottles to kids’ books online before you fly.
Full hotel details, go >>
Borgo Egnazia, Italy
This spectacular resort in southern Italy has gained a reputation, and awards, for family-holiday excellence. Its personalised service starts before you arrive, with staff getting to know their young guests’ preferences to make you and your children’s stay all the more enjoyable. Kids clubs start from eight months: treasure hunts, swimming and softplay. Babysitting services allow you to enjoy the resort’s luxury spa, golf, yoga, tennis, and the amazing welcome that your hosts, the Melpignano family, have reserved for you.
Full hotel details, go >>
Domes of Elounda, Crete
Relaxation is inevitable in this elegant, all-suite boutique hotel overlooking the Gulf of Elounda and the rolling hills beyond. Enjoy being pampered in your spacious modern suite or take a family trip to the famous Spinalonga. Kids club and crèche (from four months old) have been specially designed to meet UK Ofsted childcare standards. Nanny available on request, indoor and outdoor pools, children’s menus and snacks, spa, and a whole host of baby and toddler facilities.
Full hotel details, go >>
Martinhal, Portugal
Stunning resort and hotel set in protected natural parkland overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, with golden beaches, dramatic scenery, harbourside dining and relaxed bars and cafes nearby. For babies and toddlers there are a multitude of activities including face-painting, swimming in any of the five pools, paddling on the beach, arts and crafts, kids clubs for two years and over, evening clubs for three-year-olds and above, crèche from six months. So much for young travellers and explorers to see and do.
Full hotel details, go >>
Valle Del Erica, Sardinia
Location is everything. Something you will truly appreciate when you stay at this exclusive resort nestled in its own perfumed gardens, facing the Strait of Bonifacio along a private stretch of unspoilt coastline. It has a 24-hour crèche with everything your baby or toddler may need, baby club, mini and junior clubs, dedicated children’s restaurant, baby dance, swimming, mini shows, and so much more. As garden turns to white sandy beach and warm sea beneath your feet, you’ll wonder why you ever considered anywhere else for your family holiday.
Full hotel details, go >>
If we’ve inspired you to find out more about any of the fabulous family holiday destinations we’ve recommended for September, then please do click on them. Alternatively give us a call on 01279 639600 to arrange to see for yourself how amazing they are. Your next fun family holiday starts here.
You might also like to read Family Holiday Ideas in October
For Luxury Family Holiday ideas in other months, go to Family Holiday Ideas by Month