There comes a time when a romantic getaway for two turns into a family vacation of four, and a secluded villa becomes a resort the whole family can enjoy. Here are Valerie Wilson Travel’s handpicked hotels for family adventures that are luxurious, exciting, and most importantly, offer something for everyone.
Atlantis The Royal Dubai – Dubai, UAE
Recently opened in February of 2023, Atlantis The Royal Dubai is the new iconic landmark of Dubai crafted by the world’s leading designers, architects and artists, preceded by a show stopping grand reveal that made headlines. Home to the world’s largest waterpark Aquaventure, the stunning rooftop infinity pool lounge, Cloud 22, and world class dining venues from Nobu to Gordon Ramsey’s creations, everyone in the family is bound to have an extraordinary experience.
Fairmont Chateau – Whistler, British Colombia, Canada
Fairmont Chateau is located at the base of Blackcomb Mountain, a true landmark and one of the world’s premier ski resorts. Constructed in 1989, the resort is the largest in Canada since the turn of the century with 528 guestrooms fit with fluffy bathrobes and fresh mountain air. Daily outings led by Fairmont’s Whistler Experience Guides host mountain adventures, skiing, snowshoeing, outdoor skating, and Whistler Village tours that are beyond ideal for families who love to ski.
Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes – Orlando, Florida
The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes is in a ten-mile range from Walt Disney World, SeaWorld and Universal Studios, tucked into over 500 acres of enchanting natural surroundings and enriching activities only Florida can offer. Families can indulge in everglade kayaking, private fishing lessons and ecotours – plus the Ritz Kids program is a favorite. There are thirteen dining options, and all guest rooms feature five-foot private balconies with panoramic views of the lakes, pool and gardens.
Sage Lodge – Pray, Montana
Thirty-five minutes from Yellowstone National Park on the banks of the Yellowstone River, Sage Lodge is the ultimate Montana luxury resort. A rural refuge for adventurers and relaxation seekers, guests can hike, bike, hunt, and cross-country ski, or stargaze, dog sled, take a hot air balloon ride, and paint the landscape all within the same trip. Stay in an angler-inspired room or rent one of the stunning Ranch Houses with private patios and fireplaces that can sleep up to sixteen guests.
Silversea – The Arctic
Three of Silversea’s expedition ships are cruising the Arctic with twelve to twenty-four-day itineraries that allow guests to scan the horizon for polar bears, take zodiacs to access Inuit communities and learn from experts how to take the perfect picture of an iceberg. Silversea’s small, intimate ships offer not only comfort, but unrivalled expedition knowledge of your surroundings that the whole family can participate in. This is the definition of transformative travel that will make memories to last a lifetime!
The Four Seasons Resort O’ahu at Ko Olina
The Four Seasons Resort O’ahu at Ko Olina sits on Oahu’s sunny western coast – wild, rugged, and very scared to Hawaiians. Located conveniently close to Honolulu and Waikiki, the resort is still an idyllic escape from Oahu’s more touristy scene. Guests can stroll the private beach, snorkel with sea turtles, go deep-sea fishing or whale watching. There is an adults-only pool to enjoy while kids equally enjoy the complimentary kids club with activities like outdoor sports, arts and crafts, and swimming.
