A slice of sunshine

If you’re craving a holiday where both kids and grown-ups can actually relax (yes, it can happen), Corfu, Greece, is your answer. This Ionian island is a sun-soaked playground, with golden beaches, charming villages, and Corfu Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that practically begs you to wander its cobbled lanes with a gelato in hand.

An enchanting island escape

Travel runs in our blood, though admittedly we’re more comfortable with a rucksack than a five-star tasting menu. Sometimes it’s worth dragging Cyrus away from the pool for a day because we know he’ll thank us for it later (eventually).

A week of sunny days and good reads

We were blessed with a week of warm sunshine, perfect for beaches, strolls, and a bit of reading that didn’t involve phonics homework.

My chosen read? How To Travel With Kids by Natasha Sandhir and AJ Ratani, a book every parent should pack. It covers everything from the perfect medicine bag to surviving potty training abroad. A must-read if, like us, you’d prefer to avoid any poolside incidents that involve small humans and swim nappies.

Dream location and all-inclusive bliss

Corfu has a way of seducing everyone who visits. And yes, I’ve had those “maybe we should buy a villa here” fantasies too. But when you’ve got a toddler, the right hotel is everything.

We travelled with Jet2.com and stayed at the Aeolus Beach Hotel in Perama, an all-inclusive hotel combining spa indulgence with proper family fun. It’s even featured in The Telegraph’s top ten hotels on the island. The entertainment team deserves medals for energy and enthusiasm, no half-hearted karaoke here.

Meals were a highlight. Between pasta, pizza, Greek dishes and themed buffet nights, everyone was happy. And there was unlimited ice-cream, candy floss, and popcorn on hand for Cyrus. He loved it!

The resort sits on a hillside, so expect a few uphill walks. Thankfully, the free buggy service saved our tired legs, and the views once we were there made it worthwhile.

Exploring Corfu’s history

Adventure is never far away on this island. One morning, we took the 2.5km trail to Achilleion Palace in Gastouri, a grand mansion built for Empress Elisabeth of Austria (Sisi to her friends). Think marble staircases, statues, and panoramic views that make your thighs forgive you for the climb.

We packed water, snacks, and sun cream (parenting survival kit). Once at the top, a café rewarded us with cold drinks and even better views.

Tip: The walk is all uphill. Bring the buggy unless you fancy carrying a tired toddler back down, which is exactly what H did.

Corfu Old Town: where time slows down

Just a half-hour bus ride from the hotel, Corfu Old Town is a maze of Venetian alleyways spilling down to the sea. It’s filled with independent shops, shaded squares, and the kind of old-world charm that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into a film set.

With a bus stop right outside Aeolus, exploring was a breeze. We wandered, sipped iced coffees, and promised we’d come back one day to linger longer.

Excursions and family adventures

A boat trip to Paxos was the cherry on top. It was Little C’s first time on a boat, and he was beside himself with excitement, especially when dolphins appeared alongside us. It’s a long day, so pack snacks, sun hats, and maybe a post-excursion nap plan. Cash is essential for onboard snacks and drinks.

Back at the Aeolus, we had everything from live shows and sports to quiet corners for sunset watching. Booking a room away from the main block was genius, quiet evenings, easy bedtimes, and no late-night singalongs drifting through the walls.

Final thought

Holidays with children are never perfect, but Corfu came pretty close. Would we go again with Jet2? In a heartbeat.