FAMILY VACATIONS IN MAY

Where to go on vacation in May

Just before the summer crowds pour in and the beaches become littered with people, A May vacation is the perfect time to get away as a family. Make the most of early school break-ups and Memorial Day weekend and jet off on a vacation filled with warm weather, blue sea and luxurious hotels.

Scroll down for our top four family vacations in May

#1 Live like a Viking in the Lofoten Islands

Protruding into the Norwegian Sea, just north of the Arctic Circle, lies the remote Lofoten Islands – or Norway’s best-kept secret. Older children can exercise their wild side with hikes up Reinebringen Mountain and kayak tours through the pristine fjords. But there’s also plenty of activities for younger kids to get involved with. Head out to Borg and live like a Viking for the day, rowing a 78-foot longboat, learning to throw an axe, and indulging in an authentic Viking feast. Just because you’re in the wilderness, however, doesn’t mean there aren’t luxurious places for your family to lay their heads; take your pick from renovated fisherman cabins or floor-to-ceiling glam glass huts – each perfect for families of all ages.

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#2 Become a master chocolatier in Cusco

You’ll never forget your first step at the archaeological site of Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Before this, however, you’ll head deep into the beautiful Colca Canyon to horse-ride along the highland plateau, spot the mighty Andean Condor in flight and take a dip in the hot springs at Colca Lodge’s eco-spa. But it’s not all rural adventures. This itinerary also boasts a huge heap of culture in the cities of Cusco, Aequipa and Lima. Whilst the older kids may appreciate the ancient ruins of Huchuy Qosqo and hidden trails of the Sacred Valley more than the young, in Cusco the little ones can revel in the Choco Museum where they’ll make chocolate directly from the cocoa bean in an exclusive masterclass. So what are you waiting for? Follow in Paddington Bear’s footsteps and discover the wildest depths of Peru with your loved ones.

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#3 Board the Rocky Mountaineer and wind your way through Canada’s wilderness

On this curious Canadian adventure, you’ll discover the best of both worlds; gastronomic excellence and culture in Calgary and Vancouver, and rural bliss in UNESCO-acclaimed Banff National Park. The outdoor activities on this trip are great for all ages, with each place offering something new and exciting, making it the ultimate destination for a multi-generational vacation. Discover Canada’s rugged mountain range and scenic valleys via helicopter, horseback and aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train – the best way to travel from Banff to Vancouver with inquisitive kids. Hiding away on the banks of the Bedwell River on Vancouver Island are the boutique tents of Clayoquot Wilderness Resort, where you’ll make your home for the last few nights of your trip. One of our favorite lodges in the whole of Canada, go out in search of black bears and wild whales in the day and cozy up around the woodstove in the evenings for some family time. A perfect end to a perfect vacation.

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#4 Explore the wonders of Greece’s south coast

This cultural journey through the heart of Greece combines Athens, Spetses and Peloponnese to give families a good mix of land and sea, history and cuisine and action and relaxation. On the carefree and car-free island of Spetses, saddle up on your way to the Old Harbor, take a boat out on the glistening Mediterranean water and dine out on the fresh, local cuisine. Upon arrival on the east coast of Peloponnese Peninsula, we’re checking you into your very own Pavillion at a Black Tomato favorite, Amanzoe. Plunge pools, beach cabanas, countless watersports, 360-degree views and your own private beach; this is the perfect place for your family to reside after all the Greek adventures.

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