February 2026…// Families in search of their next bucket-list trip need look no further than Charlotte Rous Communications’ 2026 Ultimate Family Holiday Hotlist. From Maldivian castaway adventures straight out of Robinson Crusoe to sensational safaris for budding conservationists, there’s a CRC escape for the whole family this year.
BOTSWANA & KENYA
The Great Plains Young Explorers Program at Sitatunga Private Island, Botswana, and Mara Toto Tree Camp, Kenya
Great Plains Young Explorers Programme here
Great Plains, the tourism conservation organization founded by National Geographic filmmakers and explorers-in-residence Dereck and Beverly Joubert, is delighted to present its most fabulous family safari offering for children aged 6 and above, the Young Explorers Program, available at Sitatunga Private Island, Botswana, and Mara Toto Tree Camp, Kenya.
The program aims to educate and inspire the next generation of Conservation Ambassadors and encourages children to become their most adventurous selves by stepping away from traditional everyday life. Children will receive a Great Plains Young Explorers pack, including a safari cap, a neck buff, wild stickers, an activity book bursting with games, diary entries and more. The specially created activity book is filled with exciting information and games, animal tracks, a safari journal, facts on flora, fauna and the night sky constellations of the Southern Hemisphere. Young guests are paired with an exceptionally trained guide who will host, teach and care for them with their families throughout their stay.
Sitatunga Private Island, Botswana
Great Plains’ Sitatunga Private Island, Botswana offers an unparalleled opportunity for the whole family to soak up the sights of the bush in true explorer style, spotting incredible wildlife and experiencing the country’s distinctive landscape. With the region home to the world’s only inland delta, the Okavango Delta and the Selinda Spillway, an array of unique water-based experiences abound.
Aquatic adventures include authentic Mokoro rides along the Okavango Delta’s permanent channels, where children and teenagers will pick up a paddle and glide along the serene waters in a traditional Botswanan canoe, while their expert safari guide teaches them all about the various species they spot along the way. From the Mokoro, little ones will delight in pointing out the occasional hippo or crocodile swimming in the distance and identifying the amazing Botswana birdlife, such as the carmine bee-eater. Families can also participate in a fishing adventure, learning this ancient skill as they select the freshest of catches for their supper.
Aspiring chefs will adore the chance to join the kitchen brigade with several cooking experiences, ranging from cookie baking to pasta and pizza making, while the starry-eyed can embark on a star-gazing experience, learning about the various constellations as they stare up into the clearest of night skies.
Back at camp, families can enjoy a range of tech-free games and activities including basket weaving, football and rounds of the traditional Morabaraba board game, cards and Monopoly. Guides are on hand to teach essential tracking skills, which can be put into practice on a series of safari drives and bird-watching excursions, a teen favourite.
Sitatunga Private Island is a water-based Réserve-Collection Safari Camp in the upper reaches of Botswana’s Okavango Delta. Built on a raised, wrap-around railway sleeper private deck, Sitatunga Private Island can accommodate a maximum of eight adults in total sharing two separate and stunning private suites and the spacious Sitatunga Private Island Suite. The double-bedroom Sitatunga Private Island Suite hosts four adults or a family of two adults and up to three children, offering a total footprint of approximately 6534 sq.ft.
Nightly rates at Great Plains’ Sitatunga Private Island start from $1,965(£1,424*) per person per night sharing. For more information or to book, please visit https://greatplainsconservation.com/sitatunga-private-island/
Great Plains Mara Toto Tree Camp
From the sounds of horses’ hooves on the grassy plains and afternoons spent elephant spotting at a Maasai Mara watering hole to safari drives with a view of Mount Kilimanjaro, there’s nowhere quite like Kenya – and Mara Toto Tree Camp – for a Great Plains family safari of a lifetime.
Alongside safari drives, lessons in animal tracking and ‘little bug safaris’, little ones can truly immerse themselves in Kenyan culture and history, with the chance to meet the famous Maasai warriors and can even ‘join the tribe’ by dressing up in their very own colorful mini-Maasai shuka, included in all Young Explorer packs. Crafting opportunities include bow-and arrow-making, followed by target practice, and kids can even learn to make traditional Kenyan meals with Great Plains’ award-winning chefs.
Mara Toto Tree Camp is a Réserve-Collection Masai Mara Safari Camp, and offers spectacular views of the Maasai Mara National Reserve and overlooks the Ntiakitiak River. Constructed from canvas and wood, set on elevated decks into the tree canopy, and boasting spacious living areas, it exudes an aura of exploration in its style. Right from the camp itself, leopards are often seen, and lions are heard. With access to the Maasai Mara National Reserve and the more private Mara North Conservancy, there is sure to be wildlife action around every corner.
Nightly rates at Great Plains’ Mara Toto Tree Camp, Kenya, start from $1,745 (£1,275*) per person per night sharing. For more information or to book, please visit https://greatplainsconservation.com/safari/mara-toto-tree-camp/
EGYPT
The Ultimate Egyptian Beach Holiday at Al Alamein Hotel, Marassi
Families in search of a spoiling beach escape need look no further than Marassi, the luxurious beach resort and destination on Egypt’s north coast. Offering the ultimate resort experience, Marassi comprises eleven hotels, an 18-hole golf course, an international marina and yacht club, a water park and more, all set along a 6.5km stretch of white sand beach and turquoise waters.
Families will adore the chance to splash about at the Marassi Water World, with its adrenaline-pumping slides, while teens can explore The Hub, a dynamic youth entertainment space featuring a bowling alley, go-karting, skateboarding, hang out spots, arcade and much more.
At the heart of the destination lies the Marassi Marina and Yacht Club, the largest marina on the southern Mediterranean coast, offering unobstructed sea views and a beautifully crafted promenade lined with upscale retail and dining outlets. With a thriving restaurant scene offering everything from casual beach bites to fine dining, chic shopping boutiques and even a floating spa, the Marassi Marina is open to guests of all Marassi properties.
The hotel of choice for luxury beach-loving families? Introducing Al Alamein, an iconic retreat offering 179 elegant rooms, all with a timeless elegance-meets-heritage style and ranging from chic doubles that open onto the beach to family-sized villas. A historic retreat with a rich heritage since the 1960s, it has played host to many well-known figures and continues to exude understated class to this day.
With its direct beach access, the property provides an unparalleled opportunity to indulge, relax, and rejuvenate, all while enjoying the gentle sea breeze and endless seaside views. Here, families can enjoy a spectacular range of watersports, from parasailing and motorboating to sailing, jetskiing and more. Five dining options span beachfront Mediterranean seafood at B’haar, gourmet street food at Streats, Lebanese favourites at BayRoot Express, all-day international dining at Origins and French café culture at Blé.
Nightly rates at Al Alamein Hotel start from $1,300 (£942*) for a double room. For further information please visit: www.alalameinhotel.com
FRANCE
French Alps En Famille at Purple Ski’s Chalet Cervinia, Val d’Isère
Purple Ski, the premier luxury chalet operator in the French Alps, is delighted to reveal its top family-friendly chalet for the 2026 season: the brand-new Chalet Cervinia in Val d’Isère. Paired with the launch of the new Folie Douce Children’s Academy in Val d’Isere and Purple Ski’s outstanding family offering, the whole family is guaranteed memories to last a lifetime this ski season.
A new creative concept from La Folie Douce, designed for children aged 6-13, Le Folie Academy comprises three immersive workshops. Themed around music, chocolate and fashion, little ones can create, learn and express themselves and leave proudly with their own creations.
The Purple Ski Family Experience
Purple Ski prides itself on providing outstanding service for each member of the brood, with all staff trained to offer the very best experience for parents, babies and everyone in between. On hand 24/7 to help with everything from childcare to ski hire, restaurant reservations, snowman building and more, nothing is too much for Purple Ski’s dedicated family concierge. The team have even been known to organise extra special birthday celebrations complete with fireworks, games and more!
The magic starts as soon as guests check in to their chalet, with bespoke gifts provided on arrival for all children. These range from teddies, bath puzzles, coloring books and helmet covers for toddlers to cosy socks, Mikado, dominoes and rubix cubes for slightly older children and ski locks and more for teenagers. Activities on offer range from igloo-building, sledging, mini skidoo trips, horse and carriage rides to dog sledging, ice skating, treasure hunts, cinema evenings and more. Disney+ is provided in all properties and kids will also receive a complimentary Nintendo switch to enjoy during their stay.
All Purple Ski chalets come complete with a professionally trained, Michelin-star level private chef, so parents of picky eaters need not fret. From teddy-bear picnics to pizza-making evenings and kid-friendly menus, there’s a treat in store for even the tiniest of tastebuds. The team can even stagger mealtimes so that little ones can enjoy an early teatime, allowing parents to savor a gourmet tasting menu once their youngest are tucked up in bed.
Introducing Chalet Cervinia, Val d’Isère
Purple Ski’s Chalet Cervinia, which sleeps up to 13 in six bedrooms, is the latest masterpiece from owners Etienne and Jeanne Roesch Degoy, the husband-and-wife team behind Purple Ski’s award-winning Chalet Inoko. The property is a brand-new build, a rarity when it comes to well-located chalets in the Alps’ premier resorts.
Tucked away in the quiet lanes of the charming Le Joseray area of Val d’Isère, the opulent three-story residence is a true hidden gem that effortlessly blends classic alpine design with state-of-the-art facilities. Less than 100m from the Joseray piste and a short walk from the village centre with its bustling shops, bars and restaurants, Chalet Cervinia is the ultimate choice for those in search of a serene and luxurious retreat just moments from the action.
Comprising five elegant double bedrooms plus a children’s bunk room complete with cloud ceiling, each with its own en-suite bathroom, the chalet is the ideal choice for families. Guests will find ample opportunity to unwind après-ski at the on-property spa, with its hot tub, sauna, massage room and expansive sapphire-hued swimming pool – the ideal spot in which to soak away the day’s exertions. On the ground floor, a state-of-the-art home screening room delivers a true cinema experience, complete with tiered seating and ceiling lighting featuring a starry-night sky design, while the custom boot room provides a comfortable space to prepare for an exhilarating day on the slopes.
A seven-night stay at Chalet Cervinia starts from €35,920 (£31,174*) on a catered basis. For more information or to book visit https://www.purpleski.com/chalets/cervinia/
MALDIVES
Castaway Chic at Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives
Gili Lankanfushi, Maldives, has revealed its most family-friendly escapes for those looking to enjoy a bucket-list break with the whole brood this season. With under 12s staying free on a half-board basis with complimentary speedboat transfers, and a 50% discount plus half-board upgrade for teens, there’s no better time to book a family stay.
- Active Adventures – Little adventurers will have endless activities to keep them occupied. Those looking to learn a new skill can learn to surf like a pro with Gili’s surfing lessons for guests aged six and up. Back on shore, a range of sporting activities await, from kids’ Zumba and beach yoga to bike rides with Mr/Ms Friday and tik-tac-toe or badminton tournaments. Thrill seekers can take part in a beach treasure hunt, buggy driving lessons and even a sandcastle building competition. In the evenings, a bucket-list jungle cinema under the stars provides the perfect post-dinner entertainment for all, with a selection of family movies shown throughout the week, accompanied by popcorn, snacks and a mocktail or cocktail or two!
- Foodie Fun – From family picnics on a secluded sandbank, cupcake decoration and chocolate tasting at Kashiveli restaurant to ice cream tasting at Fini Foni, there are endless opportunities to tantalise those tiny taste buds. Creative kids will adore the chance to whip up their own mocktail or healthy juice at the iconic Overwater Bar or indulge in a spot of Pizza Making at Kashiveli.
- Culture Kids – ‘Local Hour’ takes place daily at the resort and includes a range of educational activities, including ‘Dhivehi Bas’ Maldivian language lessons, ‘Thoshaali’ Maldivian handicrafts and even ‘Bodu Beru’ sessions to learn to play the traditional drums. At ‘Thimaaveshi’ environment hour, aspiring ecologists can learn about the local marine life from the resident Marine Biologist as well as the sustainability measures the resort is taking to protect it, crafting their own ocean life origami as they learn.
- New for 2026: The Friday Academy – Gili Lankanfushi will soon introduce the Friday Academy, a fresh take on family fun that reflects the island’s playful spirit. True to Gili’s ethos, there’s no traditional kids’ club – instead, young guests are invited to learn the island way alongside the resort’s beloved Fridays. From cleaning boats and driving buggies to hands-on DIY and sustainable repairs, children of all ages can explore real-life island skills in paradise!
Nightly rates at Gili Lankanfushi Maldives start from $1,440 (£1,044*) based on two adults sharing a Villa Suite with breakfast included. For more information or to book please visit www.gili-lankanfushi.com.
ITALY
Olympic-inspired Activities at Hilton Lake Como
February 2026 will see the Winter Olympics take place in Milano-Cortino and as the Olympic spirit energizes the country, Hilton Lake Como makes for the perfect spot for active families in search of a sporting adventure of their own. Whether it’s a tennis match illuminated by the soft winter light, a panoramic hike in crisp mountain air or a day on the slopes followed by a lakeside sunset aperitivo, the property’s location, less than an hour from Milan, allows families to experience the excitement of the Games while enjoying the elegance and tranquillity of the lake.
Thanks to its mild climate and the extraordinary variety of its natural surroundings, the region offers a wide range of outdoor activities even in the colder months, making it the ideal base for those looking to combine sport, exploration and lakeside relaxation. At Hilton Lake Como, guests can choose from a curated selection of sporting experiences designed to showcase the very best of the area:
- Tennis – Just 20 metres from the hotel, Tennis Como is a prestigious club founded in 1930 and set within the historic park of Villa Olmo. The club offers clay, indoor and floodlit courts, allowing year-round play, including on winter evenings. Led by former professional player and federal coach Paolo Carobbio, the tennis school provides personalized programs, private lessons and family-friendly courses for both adults and children.
- Golf – Golf lovers can reach the renowned Carimate Golf Club in just a few minutes. Founded in 1962 and set within a natural park of rolling hills and ancient woodland, it features an 18-hole course seamlessly integrated into the landscape. Open year-round, the club offers equipment rental, a full practice area and private lessons with qualified professionals for all ages.
- Hiking – For families who enjoy exploring on foot, winter unveils some of the region’s most evocative trails. Highlights include the Greenway del Lago, a 10-kilometer route through historic villages and lakeside villas; the hike to Brunate and the Volta Lighthouse for panoramic lake views; and sections of the ancient Strada Regia connecting Como to Bellagio. Higher elevations can be reached in the Valle d’Intelvi and on Monte Generoso, offering sweeping views across multiple lakes and the Alps. The area caters to all levels, from family-friendly routes on Monte San Primo to more demanding climbs such as Monte Legnone and the Grigna massif, as well as renowned via ferrata routes at Corni di Canzo and Monte Grona.
- Ski & Snow – Guests looking to add an alpine element to their stay can reach several ski resorts within 60–90 minutes of the hotel. Destinations such as Piani di Bobbio, Madesimo, Chiesa Valmalenco and Monte Tamaro offer slopes for all levels. The hotel can arrange seamless snow days with private transfers, equipment rental, ski passes and optional lessons, allowing families to enjoy the mountains before returning to the calm of the lake.
Formerly a silk factory, Hilton Lake Como is now a modern lifestyle hotel with spectacular scenery, traditional charm, and jaw-dropping 180-degree views of the lake from its rooftop pool. There are 170 spacious rooms and suites to choose from, including Family Deluxe King Rooms, which sleep up to 4 and perfectly cater to family travelers alongside new interconnecting rooms, a pampering spa and a popular rooftop cocktail bar and restaurant.
Nightly rates at Hilton Lake Como begin at €350 (£304*) per night based on double occupancy with breakfast included. For more information and to book visit https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/mxpcohi-hilton-lake-como/
Learning Holidays at Hilton Molino Stucky Venice
Hilton Molino Stucky Venice, the five-star hotel on Giudecca Island, is delighted to offer families a series of new learning activities. Designed to immerse all ages in the local culture and history and allow little ones to learn a new skill while on holiday, the new offerings encourage families to swap screen time and the stresses of daily life for authentic experiences including Venetian rowing, mask-making, cooking classes and more. The activities include:
- Gondola Rowing – Families now try their hand at the most famous of all Venetian traditions… gondola rowing! In a private session suitable for adults and children, a master gondolier will share the secrets of the city’s famous black gondolas, demonstrating expert tips and trips before guests grab the oars and navigate the famous canals for themselves.
- Venetian Mask Making – Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is encouraging families to get in touch with their creative side with a Venetian mask making offering on Giudecca, just minutes away from the hotel. After selecting from over 50 different papier-maché models with the help of a mascherari, guests can decorate their mask as they choose, utilising the craft-centre’s paints, gems, feathers, glitter and more to make a special holiday souvenir and recreate a carnival atmosphere wherever they are!
- Glassblowing – The hotel can also arrange for families with children aged ten and up to visit a local glass blowing workshop. Here, guests can better understand the intricacies and complex art behind creating the delicate Murano glass, dating back to the 8th century. Young travelers will be mesmerized as the artisans meticulously demonstrate their skills creating sculptures from red-hot melted glass in various bold colors.
- Cooking Classes – Young bakers in the making can step into the kitchen and learn how to bake the special Bussola cookies from Burano, which are served to guests of the hotel. Also known as Venetian butter cookies, the Bussola cookies are simple and not too sweet with a light lemon flavor and crisp texture – perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. For those who prefer a savoury treat, pasta-making classes with the hotel’s in-house expert are also available. During the session, the chef will share the tips and tricks for preparing the best ever plate of pasta – just the way Nonna does! €75 per person.
Formerly a flour mill factory on the peaceful island of Giudecca, Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is a modern Venetian masterpiece steeped in history. This listed building has been beautifully restored with a series of recent refurbishments, including 24 new suites by famed interior designer Biagio Forino unveiled in April 2024. After arriving by water taxi, guests will be spoiled for choice with 379 rooms and suites, one of the largest spas in Venice, and a collection of bars and restaurants. Hilton Molino Stucky Venice is home to one of two eforea Spas in Italy; the other eforea Spa location is available at sister property Hilton Lake Como.
Nightly rates at Hilton Molino Stucky Venice begin at €240 (£208*) per night based on double occupancy with breakfast included. Molino Suites start from €590 (£511*) per night. For more information or to book visit https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/vcehihi-hilton-molino-stucky-venice/.
SRI LANKA
Junior Ranger Program at Uga Chena Huts, Yala
Families looking for a true sense of adventure in untouched wilderness need look no further than Uga Chena Huts, nestled deep within the jungle in Sri Lanka’s far south, a few miles from Yala National Park. Comprising just 18 thatch-roofed cabins – each with its own private deck and pool, with plenty of room for the whole brood – the property provides a bucket-list worthy opportunity to immerse the family in nature.
Top of the agenda for tiny explorers are the exhilarating safari drives aboard Uga’s custom jeeps, which see families with children aged 6 and up transported to Yala National Park where they can spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, crocodiles and over 200 species of wild bird, including the rare black-necked stork.
The Junior Ranger Program at Chena Huts is an engaging and educational initiative designed to provide young visitors with a unique and interactive experience. Participants are introduced to the natural environment and wildlife surrounding the lodge while also learning about conservation and responsible outdoor recreation. Through a series of fun and informative activities, such as guided nature walks, interactive games, and educational workshops, junior rangers gain a deeper appreciation for the natural world. This program not only fosters a sense of stewardship for the environment but is also a fantastic way for kids of all ages to connect with nature.
Overlooking a beach where sea turtles come to lay eggs by moonlight and elephants wander down from the nearby forest to play in the surf, Chena Huts is fringed on one landward side by tropical jungle and on the other by a saline lake where ibises, painted storks and eben flamingos may be seen, wading in the shallows. Guests can enjoy world-class dining at the property’s Basses restaurant, sundowners at beachside bar and spoiling spa treatments from the comfort of their residence.
Nightly rates at Uga Chena Huts start from $1,237 (£896*), based on two adults sharing a Luxury Pool Cabin on an all-inclusive basis. For more information or to book, visit https://www.ugaeresorts.com/chenahuts/
Culture and Conservation for All Ages at Uga Ulagalla, Anuradhapura
The award-winning Uga Ulagalla, a 25-villa five-star resort set within an expansive 58-acre estate near the ancient city of Anuradhapura, in Sri Lanka’s famous cultural triangle, is a must for culture-loving travelers and their children. Surrounded by natural woodland, each villa is set on around an acre of land, giving families ample space to spread out and enjoy the wildlife – including grey langur monkeys, peacocks and monitor lizards – that roam the property.
Serving as a sumptuous base from which to explore Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, Uga Ulagalla can arrange an array of family-friendly adventures for guests. From witnessing one of the largest elephant gatherings in the world at Minneriya National Park, leopard spotting at Wilpattu National Park to excursions to Sigiriya rock fortress, discovery wildlife drives and the ancient monastery at Ritigala, there are endless opportunities for adventure. Back at the resort, families can indulge in nature walks, enjoy horse-riding, kayaking and archery, or partake in a Sri Lankan cooking class at Uga Ulagalla’s organic solar-powered farm, while little ones will adore the opportunity to participate in the junior ranger programme and splash about in the resort’s large main swimming pool.
Nightly rates at Uga Ulagalla start from $481 (£349*), based on two adults sharing an Ulagalla Pool Villa on a bed and breakfast basis. For more information and to book, please visit https://www.ugaresorts.com/ulagalla/
