Expert Strategies for Successful Multigenerational Family Holidays
The growing trend of multigenerational holidays has accelerated significantly since the pandemic, with families increasingly seeking meaningful shared experiences across generations. Nikolaus Thomale, co-founder of European holiday-home platform MYNE, observes this shift toward family-focused travel. "People increasingly want to travel with their families to create meaningful moments and memories," Thomale explains. "In our increasingly virtual and digital world, these real-world family experiences have become more valuable, desired, and in demand than ever before."
Financial Planning: The Essential First Step
Organising holidays for multiple generations requires careful planning, beginning with financial arrangements. Thomale emphasises this critical foundation: "It's really important to have an upfront discussion about how you are going to finance the whole holiday. For example, are you planning to split the price equally, or does someone want to pay for everything? Planning these financial details well in advance ensures the trip will be comfortable and enjoyable for every family member involved."
Choosing the Right Accommodation
Selecting appropriate accommodation forms another crucial element of successful multigenerational travel. "There's significant demand for renting, owning, or co-owning larger holiday homes because they can accommodate extended families all under one roof," notes Thomale. "A spacious holiday home with garden and pool facilities proves ideal because everything remains in one location while catering to different needs. This setup allows different generations to pursue different activities simultaneously while maintaining family togetherness."
Safety and accessibility considerations must also guide accommodation choices. "For children, you want properly protected pools and safe buildings," Thomale advises. "Similarly, for elderly relatives, you might need properties accessible by car or featuring walk-in showers and other accessibility features."
Activity Planning and Communication
When planning activities, offering choices through what Thomale calls "splinter excursions" helps maintain harmony. "Many people underestimate the need for alone time during multigenerational holidays," he observes. "You can organise splinter excursions where the group divides for different activities catering to varied interests and energy levels."
For activities involving the entire family, advance booking becomes essential. "When travelling with larger groups, it's much more important to contact restaurants well ahead to secure space for your whole family, particularly during peak holiday periods," Thomale highlights. "The same principle applies to major group activities like boat rentals—you'll need larger vessels, so confirming availability early is crucial."
Three Exceptional Multigenerational Holiday Options
Woolbrook Reservoir in Sidmouth, Devon
This stunning six-bedroom property in East Devon provides the perfect luxury setting for unforgettable family gatherings. Designed specifically for multigenerational families, Woolbrook Reservoir offers ample space where everyone can relax without feeling crowded. Standout features include a spacious games room with pool table, table football, and board games, plus a relaxing hot tub perfect for evening unwinding. The property accommodates up to 16 guests at £8,957 per week, offering both cosy autumnal retreats by the fireplace and luxurious summer escapes near the beach.
Cap Au Vent Villa, St Barts, Caribbean
For families dreaming of Caribbean luxury, Le Barth Villas operate numerous luxury properties on St Barts suitable for families of all sizes. The exceptional Cap au Vent Villa in Pointe Milou offers breathtaking 280-degree panoramic views from its heated pool area. This private off-grid villa costs £12,150 per week and features four bedrooms, BBQ facilities, outdoor sound systems, plus included continental breakfast and room service. Guests also enjoy round-trip transportation, daily housekeeping, and access to five-star amenities at Le Barthélemy Hotel & Spa, including beach clubs, Nordic spas, yoga studios, and water sports centres.
Mediterranean Cruise with Royal Caribbean
Cruises offer completely stress-free holidays where entertainment, dining, and logistics are expertly handled. Royal Caribbean currently offers a seven-night western Mediterranean itinerary aboard the Legend of the Seas, providing excellent all-inclusive options for families wanting to explore Europe's most popular destinations. Departing Barcelona on August 30, the cruise visits Palma, Provence, Florence/Pisa, Rome, and Naples/Capri before returning September 6. Prices start from £1,279 per person for accommodation, cruise fare, food, drinks, and entertainment in connecting ocean-view balcony rooms—an ideal solution for larger families needing interconnected accommodations.
