Aiming for the ideal family vacation spot can be challenging. You aspire to find a place with stunning beaches and natural allure, yet it’s essential to consider practicality and affordability. Recently, easyJet unveiled its Family Holiday Index, ranking the top destinations for families based on various criteria like travel logistics, beach access, costs, and available family-friendly activities.
The Index unveiled a list of the top ten family holiday destinations, with Spanish locations claiming six spots. Surprisingly, an Italian island secured the sixth position and earned the title of the ‘Caribbean of Europe’ due to its breathtaking beaches and untouched landscapes.
Sardinia emerged as a top family destination for its vast array of beaches, family-oriented activities, and convenient access from the UK. The island boasts two main airports: Cagliari Elmas Airport in the south and Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport in the north, both facilitating travel. With easyJet offering seasonal services to Olbia from various UK cities, including Bristol, Edinburgh, London-Gatwick, and London-Luton, accessibility is relatively easy. Alternative flight options to Cagliari from the UK are available through Ryanair and British Airways.
Flights to Sardinia via easyJet start from just £35.60 one way in May, with a travel duration of approximately two-and-a-half to three hours, suitable for most children. Booking a Sardinia holiday package with easyJet Holidays, including a quadruple room stay at Borgo di Campagna departing on May 8, costs £340 per person. By using the code SPRINGSALE at checkout, customers can save an additional £100 on the total package price.
Among Sardinia’s best beaches, Spiaggia La Pelosa stands out as a family-friendly destination with its soft white sands and calm turquoise waters. Access to this beach is regulated during the peak season, requiring advance booking and a nominal entry fee for visitors above 12 years old.
Costa Smeralda offers a selection of beaches along a 35-mile coastline in the island’s northeast, known for its upscale resorts, fine dining options, and designer stores. For families keen on swimming, a boat trip to La Maddalena Archipelago, accessible only by boat, provides a unique experience. Various tour operators offer full-day boat tours to explore multiple islands and enjoy swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters.
Sardinia is a treasure trove of ancient sites for children interested in history. From the Bronze Age complex of Su Nuraxi di Barumini to the historic structures in Cagliari’s Castello, the island offers rich cultural experiences. Roman history enthusiasts can explore the Roman Amphitheatre of Cagliari, where tales of gladiator battles and public executions unfold.
Sardinian cuisine is typically kid-friendly, offering options to suit even picky eaters. Street vendors selling Spianadina, a traditional flatbread filled with cheese and ham, provide quick lunch choices, while authentic restaurants serve wood-fired pizzas and fresh pasta for delightful evening meals.