Up until a few years ago, I was very much a package holiday kind of a girl (possibly because I was a travel agent for years) and I wouldn’t have considered booking a flight and my hotel separately, but with the rising popularity of the low cost airlines it can be much more economical to book your flights and accommodation separately.
Another thing I’m more aware of now is that holiday cottages and villas can (not always) work out cheaper for us as a family. As well as being cheaper, I like the benefits and peace of mind that having our own accommodation brings. I don’t have to worry about the noise the kids make (within reason), it’s much more private and we can do what we want (again, within reason 
).
There are some great family cottages to choose from, both in the UK and abroad. Here’s a few examples that I found on holiday rentals website HomeAway.co.uk to give you an idea….
UK
A beautiful converted barn with stunning 360 views in Cornwall
3 Bedrooms, Sleeps 6. From £550 per property per week
Middle Lanherne Barn is a converted 19th century barn boasting 360-degree views over the surrounding Cornish countryside. Ideally situated to enjoy all that Cornwall has to offer, approximately six miles from Padstow and Newquay and four miles from Watergate bay. The property has a modern, fully equipped kitchen, a lounge area with a selection of video games for kids, three comfortable bedrooms and a private enclosed garden and patio.
Property Reference: 874842
ITALY
Wonderful villa with private pool, stunning views and huge play den, Marche
5 Bedrooms, Sleeps 10. From £1,095 per property per week
This is the perfect traditional Italian farmhouse ideal for families and located in a wonderful rural location. The 360 degree views from the house are amazing with distant sea views to the east and the magnificent Sibillini Mountains to the west. Outside there is a large terracotta terrace and covered pergola, table, chairs and big parasols to keep the sun at bay. A private fenced swimming pool is located just below the house, with spectacular views of the mountains and surrounding rolling hills. There is a huge play den on site, with toys for toddlers, children and adults, from train sets to trampolines, ping pong to pool. Also close by, there is a double swing as well as a sandpit.
Property Reference: 459942
SPAIN
Charming traditional country finca with play area for kids, Majorca
4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 8. From £895 per property per week
This charming finca enjoys a private location just 1km from the historic old town of Pollensa with the dramatic backdrop of the Tramuntana Mountains. There are four bedrooms, two bathrooms and two lounges, one with Sky TV decoder and WiFi broadband access. Outside, set in 4000 square metres, there is a fantastic private pool, plenty of sun loungers and a separate play area with play frame, trampoline and a basketball ring to keep the little ones amused. For the grown ups there is a built in stone BBQ with dining area, ideal for long leisurely lunches or al-fresco evening dining. Separate shady sitting areas can be found around the garden for quiet reading spots.
Property Reference: 442526
USA
Fantastic villa with large pool and games room in Florida
4 Bedrooms, Sleeps 9. From £450 per property per week
The villa is situated at Sanctuary Westhaven, a gated community with high quality homes set in beautiful landscaped grounds. Ideally located only 10 minutes from Disney attractions, the property features a lounge, dining and well equipped kitchen area, four bedrooms including a Disney twin bedroom and a games room equipped with pool table, ping pong, ice hockey and a variety of other games. There is a large pool with lights for night-time and an area for dining with electric barbecue.
Property Reference: 851427
The larger properties are even better value for money if you’re sharing with another family. We’re thinking of going away with some friends next year and we’re really considering booking one of these rather than a hotel.
What do you think – hotel or cottage?
