The family holiday abroad should be a fun, relaxing experience. However, travelling with the kiddies and keeping them occupied isn’t always easy. Carefully choosing your destination and activities – without overscheduling – can alleviate a good deal of the stress.
When we think of the Algarve, we usually think of all-inclusive resorts, parties, and general chaos. But Portugal’s history and landscape are rich, and is just waiting to be explored by families with younger kids.
Kid-Friendly Resorts
When you are in the planning stage of your vacation, take the time to research which resorts are more family-oriented. Kids’ Clubs, waterslides, fewer nightclubs and more babysitting options… these are all things to take into consideration. Do they have family suites with two or more bedrooms and multiple beds, or are they geared more for couples? Are there watersport instructors who can show children how to safely kayak or snorkel? Do they have activities that are geared to the ages of your children? Booking at a family-friendly resort or hotel will insure that there are a variety of foods the kids will eat, monitored play areas (wet and dry, soft and hard), and lots of lifeguards on duty.
Zoo de Lagos
The Zoo de Lagos is a year-round family hotspot. They are known for their exotic birds. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and can provide information in English. It’s educational and fun, so all members of the family will be satisfied!
Slip n Slide
There are water parks throughout the Algarve region, offering an alternative to the beach. Tubing, water slides, and lazy rivers await the family. Prices vary, but so does the quality. Ask the concierge at your resort which park is closest, or most recommended. Many resorts offer packages with transportation for water park activities.
Children’s Life Sciences Centre
An inexpensive way to expose your children to the rich nautical history of the Algarve. Interactive exhibits allow kids to be part of the past, as navigators and explorers.
Go Karting
There are several go karting tracks just a short drive from Lagos. Get out on the track and race around for an hour or two. The kids will be exhausted, ready to leave Mom & Dad alone while they enjoy a quiet drink back at their hotel.
Bounce!
For families with smaller kids, fun centres offer bouncy castles, slides, and toys to keep the wee ones occupied should the weather turn foul. Indoor play complexes offer a great alternative not just for bad weather, but for when the little ones have already had a bit too much sun.
The Beach!
Lagos is home to pristine beaches and year-round temperate weather. Slap on the SPF, and get the kids out of the hotel room to enjoy the gorgeous coast. Pack a picnic, build sandcastles, and stay away from social media for the day. It’s a great way to reconnect as a family. The Meia Praia beach in Lagos offers a variety of watersports and inflatables. Some of the inflatables are built specifically for families with smaller children, like the 4-person water seat.
Have a great break and be sure and book your Portugese airport transfer with Holiday Taxis!
