Mohonk Mountain House, Hudson Valley, New York
Dating back to 1869, Mohonk Mountain House is the ultimate getaway for families with children of all ages and the reason why guests come back again and again for decades and even longer. Surrounded by 40,000 acres of forests, the resort offers an endless list of outdoor activities from hiking, biking, boating, swimming, and rock climbing in the summer to cross-country skiing, ice skating, and snow tubing come winter. Kids can also enjoy the kids’ club, an 18-hole disc golf course, mule-drawn carriage rides, and the dedicated children’s garden. And they’ll love the food: From BBQ, burgers and mac and cheese at the outdoor lakeside Granary to classic malt milkshakes and cold cider at the old-fashioned soda fountain, there’s plenty of choice. Parents, meanwhile, can hit the bar or escape to the spa. Nightly rates from $935 for two inclusive of meals.
The Lodge & Spa at Brush Creek Ranch, Saratoga, Wyoming
It’s the ranch you’ll never want to leave: Families spend their days here partaking in two excursions a day, which include everything from horseback riding, hiking, fly fishing, and archery to a ropes course, paintball, and ATV riding. Younger kids can participate in the Lil Wranglers program, which introduces them to ecological exploration and horseback riding. The new goat program is a chance for kids to interact with Brush Creek’s herd of goats and learn how they make cheese. In between adventures, families can refuel themselves with tasty meals such as taco fiestas and pizza nights. There’s evening entertainment too such as live country music, stargazing, and s’mores by the firepit. Nightly rates from $1,250 per person inclusive of meals, alcohol, and activities.
The Brando, French Polynesia
French Polynesia might seem like a destination more fitting for couples than families, but the Brando proves that this stereotype doesn’t hold true. The resort’s Lagoon School offers children ages six to 12 activities to learn about the benefits of protecting the natural environment, such as treasure hunts that give them the chance to explore the landscape. Children can also attend naturalist-led interactive talks and are catered to at mealtimes with customized menus. The spa even offers treatments just for kids. The Brando recently debuted three-bedroom residence-style accommodations, which are ideal for families. Nightly rates form $3,500 all-inclusive.
Borgo Egnazia, Puglia, Italy
Steeped in Puglian culture, Borgo Egnazia overlooks the Adriatic Sea and is set among thousand-year-old olive trees. The many family-friendly amenities include six restaurants, two beach clubs, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and a golf club. In addition, Borgo Egnazia offers separate clubs for kids and teens where they can partake in experiences such as cooking Puglian dishes, visiting nearby farms, horseback riding, and water sports. Nightly rates from $1094.
