Family Travel Bucket List: 5 Must-Visit Destinations For 2025 / 2026
5 Must-Visit Destinations For Family Travel
Embark on a fabulous year of family travel, exploring some of the world’s hottest destinations while indulging in the most stylish stays. Picture your family traversing the majestic peaks of the Swiss Alps, where adventure and relaxation come together in a breathtaking landscape. Here, you can enjoy a variety of family-friendly activities, from hiking and mountain biking to unwinding at luxurious wellness retreats. The Alps are not just a destination; they offer experiences that foster connection and create lasting memories.
Now imagine the tranquil shores of the Maldives, where pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters invite you to unwind in paradise. Resorts like Soneva Fushi provide an idyllic setting for families, offering luxurious accommodations alongside unique children’s programs. While parents relax in lavish beachfront villas, kids can immerse themselves in creative and adventurous activities, making it a vacation that caters to everyone.
This bucket list is packed with unforgettable experiences designed for every family member. For the thrill-seekers, explore the stunning landscapes of New Zealand’s South Island, where breathtaking views and outdoor adventures await. Families can hike through rolling hills, embark on whale-watching excursions, or experience the thrill of the Tranz Alpine Railway. Each experience is crafted to engage children and adults alike, ensuring no one feels left out.
In addition to these iconic destinations, consider the rich culture of Chengdu, China, where families can meet giant pandas and enjoy luxurious resorts that offer unique amenities for children. Or venture to the enchanting island of Sumba, Indonesia, where Cap Karoso invites families to connect with nature and immerse themselves in local culture. This year is your opportunity to create cherished family memories in some of the most stunning corners of the globe.
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Featured
SWISS MOUNTAIN SUMMER: Head To The Alps With Powder Bryne
Coolcations, Children’s Adventures & Wellness Retreats In The Heart Of The AlpsPowder Byrne transforms the Swiss Alps into the ultimate family summer destination, where everyone gets the chance to disconnect and reconnect in nature. Their children’s programmes are designed to inspire curiosity and confidence, with activities ranging from high tree courses and archery to mountain walks, lake fun, and biking trails. Kids experience freedom with purpose and fun with support, while parents can join in the adventures or unwind with world-class wellness and spa experiences. Powder Byrne’s expert local knowledge and concierge-style service ensure every detail is seamless, creating a holiday that feels as effortless as it is enriching.
Each mountain resort has its own personality and focus, meaning families can experience something unique wherever they stay. In Arosa, thrill-seekers will love mountain biking, while Gstaad shines with scenic alpine hikes. Golfers can tee off against breathtaking backdrops in Crans Montana, while St Moritz combines elegance with alpine energy, offering everything from sailing to lakeside relaxation. By curating the very best of the mountains into bespoke experiences, Powder Byrne turns a summer holiday into a true bucket-list coolcation.
Powder Byrne, W111 Vox Studios London SE11 5JH, 0044 (0) 208 246 5300, enquiries@powderbyrne.com, www.powderbyrne.com
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A MALDIVES HOLIDAY WITH THE KIDS: Soneva Fushi, Maldives
Everyone has a paradise island on their must-visit list, and Soneva Fushi ticks all the boxes. Not only is the property world-class, but the facilities for kids go above and beyond. Parents get to enjoy the Robinson Crusoe surroundings, luxury beachfront villas, and an amazing spa, while children can dive into The Den – a unique kids' playground. Prepare to be jealous as they regale you with tales of an eight-metre high pirate ship, a DJ corner, a Mocktail Bar, cooking classes, a Lego room, a music room, and a teenage lounge. You can all meet up in the evenings at one of the restaurants or on the sand for a picnic to work out who’s having the most fun. Warning – it’ll be a very fierce competition!
Soneva Fushi, Kunfunadhoo Island, Eydhafushi, Maldives, +960 660-0304, reservations@soneva.com, www.soneva.com/resorts/soneva-fushi
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WATERFALLS + WHALE WATCHING + AND NATURE: New Zealand’s South Island
Haven’t made it to Middle-earth yet? Then make New Zealand your top priority this year. The scenic South Island is a perfect combination of adventure, beauty, and endless family activities, so it’s great for those with children who get bored easily! Immerse yourselves in the rolling hills of the Bronte Country, head to the waterfall at Ohau Point, go whale and dolphin watching at Kaikoura, travel on the Tranz Alpine Railway across the Canterbury Plains, and go picnicking on Mou Waho Island. The opportunities are massive – and unforgettable.
New Zealand South Island, https://www.littlestepsasia.com/travel/new-zealand/guide-south-island/
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GO SEE PANDAS IN STYLE: Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain In Chengdu, China
Chengdu is famous for its endangered giant pandas, and the sooner you see them, the better! For an extra special trip, stay at Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain, which boasts a kids club, indoor and outdoor play areas, movie afternoons, a lifeguard-manned pool, and villas with room for all. You’ll be welcomed by a ‘villagey feel’, wooden beamed houses, organic gardens, a bevvy of restaurants, a space-themed bar, and the infamously excellent Six Senses Spa. The pandas will practically be your neighbours, and there’s also a fleet of resident panda experts on hand who can introduce you to your new furry friends.
Six Senses Qing Cheng Mountain, 2 Dongruan Blvd, Dujiangyan City, Chengdu, Sichuan, China, 611844, +86 28 8712 6666, reservations-qingcheng@sixsenses.com, www.sixsenses.com/en/resorts/qing-cheng-mountain
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UNTOUCHED ISLAND: Cap Karoso, Sumba, Indonesia
Bored of Bali? Just a little further afield in Indonesia lies the enchanting and untouched island of Sumba. Cap Karoso is an elegant design-led hotel that invites families to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and tranquility of this lesser-known Indonesian gem. Kids can frolic in the dedicated children's pool, embark on nature walks to discover the island's rich biodiversity, learn agriculture at the resort’s organic farm, and participate in cultural activities and visits to local villages to learn about Sumba's vibrant traditions and heritage. There's also horseback riding along pristine beaches, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters teeming with marine life, and exploring nearby waterfalls. After a day of fun, families can unwind with a delicious meal at one of Cap Karoso's renowned restaurants, where fresh seafood and local specialties are served against the backdrop of stunning sunset views.
Cap Karoso, Pantai Karoso, Ate Dalo, Sumba Indonesia, +62 811 386 260, welcome@capkaroso.com, www.capkaroso.com
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