Breakfast on a shady terrace surrounded by beautiful gardens, a morning yoga class, a dip in a zen adults-only pool while little ones run riot in the kids’ club, lunch with the spray of the ocean on your face… when it comes to the perfect short-haul holiday, a few elements stand out as must-haves, whatever your taste. Because real life can be chaotic – but going on holiday should be anything but. Club Med knows a thing or two about hassle-free getaways – whisking couples, families and multi-generational groups to some of the most beautiful destinations in the world and taking care of the rest as part of the group’s premium all-inclusive packages. From refined dining experiences and an open bar to a vast array of activities (sailing or golf, anyone?) and evening entertainment, and kids clubs with qualified carers bosting a variety of activities for every age group, a trip to one of Club Med’s short-haul resorts might just be the dream holiday this year. So we’ve rounded up 7 of the best properties you can reach in just a few hours from home to inspire your next trip.
Marbella, Spain
12 acres of lush gardens – across which you’ll discover five swimming pools, a golf course, tennis courts, a spa, kids’ club and more – are tucked into gorgeous Andalucian countryside. As its name suggests, Club Med Magna Marbella is just a 15-minute drive from the glossy beachfront city. Set back at the foot of the Sierra Blanca Mountains, this all-inclusive resort is ideal for families – days are spent splashing in the lagoon-themed swimming pool, trying your hand at padel or practising your swing at included group golf lessons while little ones hang out at Mini Club Med.
Antalya, Turkey
A beach-backed oasis south of Antalya, Club Med Palmiye is the perfect place for a taste of Turkey. Wake up slowly, with Pilates and a lazy breakfast, before ramping things up with wakeboarding or waterskiing (both included in the extensive all-inclusive offering) on the Mediterranean Sea. Other ways to get on the water might include sailing lessons or SUP. Retreat to one of the swimming pools for a snooze on a deckchair before sampling the very best of Turkish cuisine during supper under the stars at The Phaselis.
Cefalu, Sicily
Italy’s steamy, volcanic island has been marked by centuries of different ancient civilisations. And what better place to uncover its secrets than Club Med Cefalu, a resort which roots down into its setting at every turn. Peeking over the clifftops and down to the ocean, here you might take part in yoga with a view, join a guided hike to explore the dramatic terrain up close, visit Cefalù old town’s winding, shady streets or perhaps tack on an excursion to Mount Etna. Whatever you choose, the stunning swimming pool (with ocean views, of course) and spa are waiting for you back at the resort – as is al fresco restaurant La Rocca for delicious suppers and La Riva Beach Restaurant for lunches by the sea.
Algarve, Portugal
Portugal’s prettiest coastal region is perenially popular for a reason: that golden light, some of the best beaches in Europe with sand like sugar, clear-as-can-be ocean backed by golden limestone cliffs. At Club Med De Balalia, every room has either a sea view or a balcony to soak up the much-revered sunlight in the comfort of your own digs. But then there’s the seaview restaurant for long lunches or seafood-spotlighting suppers, and, of course, the spectacular golf course – drop mini-mes off at the kids’ club for mini golf while you take to the course yourself, and link back up at one of the three swimming pools.
Evia, Greece
Ah, the Greek islands – a firm favourite of travellers in the know for decades. At Club Med Gregolimano, you get a slice of island life that will reveal why. Set against a golden beach, this is the clever choice for parents with active kids – everything from water skiing to tennis to beach volleyball is included in the price. Four piers spread across this sprawling resort (which is only accessible by water) offer everything from child-focused fun to wakeboarding. Rooms take the classic Greek island palette of blue and white and run with it, creating soothing spaces to retreat to – but why would you want to?
Marrakech, Morroco
Morocco's oldest palm grove is the setting for Club Med Marrakech La Palmeraie, a handsome, authentic resort that offers easy access to Marrakech’s bustling medinas (and even takes inspiration from them). Of course, there’s all the classic Club Med luxuries – such as an exceptional kids’ club and nighttime entertainment that reflects the resort’s surroundings – but Marrakech La Palmeraie has a few unique tricks up its sleeve, too. There’s La Riad, an Exclusive Collection Space, with suites and private areas such as a Champagne bar.) Plus, views over the Atlas Mountains, a gourmet dining experience set on the golf course, and a spa menu which looks to Moroccan beauty practices fors its soothing treatments.
Les Mathes, France
Soft sand buffeted by the Atlantic Ocean, chocolate box villages, swathes of rugged countryside – this corner of France is the place to get away from the screens and stress of life at home and go back to basics. Except, of course, a stay at Club Med La Palmyre Atlantique is anything but. After exploring the area by bike or on horseback, retreat to the terrace of La Belle Epoque, one of the restaurants on-site, for oysters with a sea view.
Book now
Discover more at clubmed.co.uk