Europe’s Best Luxury Family Hotels

Not every place on this list looks like a storybook castle, but Adare Manor certainly does. This grand manor house in western Ireland has been converted into one of the best luxury family-friendly hotels in Europe, with a seemingly infinite list of activities to entertain guests of any age: think horse riding, bike tours, archery, padel, golf and much more. There’s also a cinema, spa and indoor swimming pool for when you want to sit back and relax. 

Glamour and elegance abound at the Victoria-Jungfrau Grand Hotel & Spa: an absolute icon of classic Swiss luxury. This historic hotel will impress not only older family members, but also the youngest with a dedicated play area, endless activities, kid-friendly dining options and even a special breakfast buffet for little ones. Adventurous families will also appreciate the glacial peaks and Alpine scenery of Jungfraujoch and Interlaken.

There are plenty of luxury family beach hotels in Europe, but Forte Village Resort takes the concept to a whole new level. Located at the southern tip of Sardinia, it’s the perfect spot for an idyllic family vacation in Italy. There are dozens of luxurious villas, bungalows and suites, as well as an exceptional spa and wellness programme. The resort is especially fantastic for kids and teenagers; there’s the Children’s Wonderland, a water park, bowling, go-karts and more.

Set in the sparkling heart of the Champagne region, the Royal Champagne Hotel & Spa promises a sumptuous escape in the French countryside. Older guests can explore the surrounding vineyards, taste Michelin-starred cuisine and of course sample plenty of bubbly – but younger family members will also find plenty to do. The world-class spa offers a wide range of treatments, including a special wellness ritual for children aged 6 and up.

Domaine de Manville is a tranquil oasis at the foot of the Alpilles in Provence. Although it’s quite a large estate, staying here feels like being welcomed into a family home. The hotel accepts guests of all ages and offers activities for everyone, including a kids club in the forest where little ones can enjoy crafts, educational workshops and nature activities. There’s also a golf course, spa and cinema, as well as an agroforestry farm that the whole family can visit together. 

If your family can’t decide between mountains and sea, Belmond La Residencia is for you. Tucked into the Tramuntana mountains of Mallorca, it’s not far from the island’s hidden coves and shimmering sea. Here you can meet local artisans, learn to cook Mallorcan cuisine, explore the area on guided hikes or take a mocktail-making class. There’s also a supervised children’s club with pottery workshops, tennis lessons and donkey meet-and-greets.

Rosewood Villa Magna is one of the most refined hotels in Madrid, and its spacious suites are ideal for families. For even more space – plus stunning city views – book one of the lavish ‘houses’ on the hotel’s top floors. The seasonal Rosewood Explorer programme offers special activities for kids, and in winter the gardens are transformed into a magical ice rink – complete with a pop-up lounge featuring festive treats and mulled wine for grownups.

Just an hour south of Lisbon, the unspoiled beauty of Sublime Comporta awaits. This is the kind of place where the rest of the world feels far away, even though you’re within easy reach of both the city and beach. Families will feel right at home in one of the large villas, each with its own private pool and outdoor space. Kids can also enjoy the dedicated children’s pool, and older travellers will love the locally sourced cuisine and state-of-the-art fitness centre.

Croatia has recently emerged as one of the world’s best places for family travel. And the alluring island of Hvar is home to one of the top luxury family beach hotels in Europe: Maslina Resort. Minimalist modern design meets mindful luxury at this Mediterranean gem, which offers three expansive villas to accommodate even the largest family groups. There’s a family swimming pool, a library and a playroom for kids with activities inspired by local culture.

Brown’s Hotel is best known as an icon of sophisticated luxury in London, but it’s also one of the city’s most family-friendly hotels. The concierge team can easily arrange activities for younger family members, from exciting adventures to afternoon tea. There are special family rooms and suites, as well as a long list of customised amenities and services for babies, children and teenagers: think rubber ducks, kids’ menus, mocktails and age-appropriate spa treatments.

The entrance of the Kimpton Fitzroy London looks straight out of a fantasy film. Inside you’ll find all sorts of whimsical touches, from the beloved Lucky George (a bronze dragon) to the Plant Pals programme (in which a plant named after a famous artist or author will be delivered to your room). These details aren’t just for younger travellers, either; they’ll awaken a sense of childlike wonder and fun in every family member, making your stay even more memorable.

If you’re dreaming of the ultimate English countryside getaway, consider escaping to one of the opulent suites or cottages at Lucknam Park Hotel & Spa. Located in the Cotswolds not far from Bath and Bristol, this exquisite estate boasts a warm and cosy ambience despite its massive size. Kids can go horse riding at the equestrian centre or head to the Hideaway: a space designed for family fun. There’s also a fantastic babysitting service available.

Gleneagles is the epitome of a Scottish country estate, with 850 acres of grounds and 100 years of history. It’s a wonderful place for a luxurious family holiday, offering activities for children and adults alike. Highlights include the three golf courses and a serene spa. Younger guests will receive an Adventure Guide, encouraging them to complete challenges and earn badges during their stay. They’ll also love the kid-friendly breakfast buffet, snack station and sweets trolley.

Andronis Arcadia has earned its reputation as one of the top luxury family-friendly hotels in Europe, and certainly one of the best on Santorini. Here every family member will be treated like the guest of honour, regardless of their age, and will get to fully enjoy the magic of this emblematic Greek island. There are spa treatments and yoga sessions designed for kids, family cooking classes and all kinds of fun educational activities at the ARCADemy Kids Club.