By When it comes to a holiday as a family, there are always plenty of options out there to ensure mum, dad and the children are entertained – but what about one-parent families? Being a single parent can be challenging in a range of different areas – according to Direct Line, the reason why some parents stay together in the first place (even when they don’t want to) is that they would find it hard to cope on their own (source).
Going on holiday as a single parent can be particularly challenging, although perhaps the biggest barrier of all is simply getting out there and making the most of the opportunities available to you and your children.
With this in mind, we’ve decided to find out what single parents consider essential in order to have great trips away with their kids – and the good news is that we found there were plenty of fantastic holidays to choose from!
Cornwall, UK
Cornwall is the most popular destination in the UK for family holidays. It boasts the longest continuous stretch of coastline in the UK and offers fantastically clear sea views, golden sandy beaches, and incredible weather during the summer months.
In addition to sun, sea, and sand, there are secret coves and quaint villages to explore, lots of towering cliffs with great views, and plenty of child-friendly places to stay.
There are several campsites that cater to families and single parents, with entertainment to keep the kids occupied, onsite workshops and even a chance to feed farmyard animals. Many of Cornwall’s campsites are pet-friendly too, so you could even bring a four-legged friend along for that perfect family experience.
Obertauern, Austria
The ski resort of Obertauern boasts some of the most reliable slopes in the alps – and it also caters for single parents. Whether you’re an expert or you’d simply like to introduce your children to something new, the amazing views, fresh air, and excitement of skiing are sure to go down a storm.
There are lots of all-inclusive resorts in the area complete with games consoles, table football and chill-out zones for when your kids need a break from the slopes, and the food offering in some of these hotels is incredible.
Istria, Croatia
Want a beach holiday but worry about your kids getting bored? Perhaps it’s time you considered Istria on the beautiful Croatian coast. The resort has amazing facilities, including playgrounds, fitness rooms, swimming pools, daily sports, and a kids’ club.
There’s also a nearby water park, plenty of beautiful hiking paths and excursions that children of all ages will love.
Lake District, UK
As the name suggests, the Lake District is famed for its waters, tarns, and of course lakes – but that’s not all. This area of outstanding natural beauty is now classed as a UNESCO world heritage site and is home to some of the most idyllic views in the country – if not the world. While the Lake District is a worthwhile visit all year round, it is particularly recommended during the warmer summer months for single parents travelling with children.
There is plenty to do here, including rowing boats on one of the many lakes, taking in some amazing sights on the easier Wainwright walks (many of which are child-friendly), enjoying some amazing food in many of the area’s top restaurants, or visiting a dedicated adventure playground for children.
Fuerteventura, Canary Islands
The beauty of Fuerteventura is that it is full of family-friendly resorts which of course cater to single mums. You and your kids can enjoy endless white sands and clear blue seas – just remember to pack the sunblock! Inland there are wonderful mountains, which adults and kids alike will enjoy exploring. Most resorts separate their kids’ clubs into a teenager, maxi and mini age range so that your children can enjoy activities like beach volleyball, watersports, table tennis and soccer with others in their own year group.
The Algarve, Portugal
While a busy tourist destination like the Algarve might not be the first choice for many single parents, it’s possible to get great deals when the season is winding down for the year, and you’ll also find that the resorts are marginally less busy. The Algarve is home to many all-inclusive hotels complete with children’s entertainment, but if you want to partake in some private family activities instead there are plenty of opportunities to head to the beach, go fishing or explore the beautiful surrounding areas.
