Martinhal Portugal
One of the very first work-related trips I ever took was to the Martinhal Hotel in the Portuguese Algarve. And boy, did I love it. The atmosphere, the food (oh, the food!), my first experience with Portuguese 'green' wine, the design, the beautiful surroundings, my room (a house of my own! Just for me!)... For several reasons, one I will never forget, that much is clear. One of the things I thought back then was that if I ever had a child, I would want to go here. The resort was, and is, in my eyes a place that understands exactly how to please children without it becoming an ugly affair and a thorn in the side (literally) of adults. Because hey, you may be parents, but you're not suddenly blind, are you?!
At Martinhal they have also done everything they can to offer guests the holiday they need. We like. Entertainment for the little ones and peace and quiet for la parents. Plus: Convenience is king. Especially when the person in question also happens to be older. Did you know that you can use Booking.com not only accommodation, but also flights, attractions, a rental car and airport taxis? The energy you save can be used to entertain the kids.
Martinhal, and since that first location in the Algarve the club has not been sitting still: in the meantime there are three new locations: one in the world famous surf area, Sagres. an hour and a half drive from their first location in Quinta Do Lago. One in the heart of Lisbon (also in a top location) and one in the oh so nice Cascais, a half hour drive from Lisbon (recommended: combine those two for a holiday with the best of both worlds: city and beach).
This often turns into a mini-break without the offspring, which is actually a bit unpleasant. In comes Martinhal!
And there's more: Martinhal introduces 'The New Relaxation', with a wellness holiday for mother & child. Or father and child, I think that's also possible. Do we have your attention? At least they had mine. The idea is both good and simple: we are all busy, busy, so a 'slow holiday' where you can also take a little extra care of yourself is a welcome change. This often turns into a mini-break without the offspring, which is actually a bit unpleasant. In comes Martinal: the hotel club hosts holidays where professionals take care of your little one while you dive into the spa. Hands together!
You can also choose:
Parent & Child Spa Experience / Baby's First Holiday: The Martinhal locations in Sagres and Cascais have charming Ministerra Spas where special parent & child treatments are on the menu: from 'new mom' massage to a 'mother & child racial or manicure' and 'father & child back massage'. At Martinhal Quinta the masseur comes 'home' so that mother or father can relax while the little one takes an afternoon nap.
Family yoga retreat: Yoga is hot and a good way to relax and forget all the to-do lists. Difficult with a screaming mini in the background. And so at this retreat the same mini can go to the professional babysitter. Learned early, done old? Junior is also allowed to come along!
Baby Swim: But this is my favorite: swimming together! Marginaal offers private lessons in a quiet environment so that the little ones learn to swim easily and quickly. Together with mom and dad. So much fun.
