As the autumn chill sets in, a half-term escape to sunnier shores offers the perfect reset for families. In just a few hours, you can swap grey skies for warm temperatures, where the coast still lingers in the low-to-mid-twenties.
With schools back in session and peak crowds gone, it’s also an ideal time to enjoy great value at beautiful, family-friendly hotels in in Türkiye or Spain.
Wyndham Garden Lara
Set just moments from the golden sands of Lara Beach, Wyndham Garden Lara is a relaxed all-inclusive resort designed with families in mind. With southern Türkiye holding onto its warmth well into autumn, it’s an ideal half-term retreat, only a short walk or complimentary shuttle ride from the shore.
Younger guests are spoilt for choice, with two dedicated kids’ clubs, a mini disco, four aqua parks complete with slides, a children’s pool, and an indoor play area. Mealtimes are equally easy, thanks to a dedicated children’s buffet.
While little ones stay entertained, parents can unwind in the spa with a traditional Turkish bath, sauna or jacuzzi, or enjoy a cocktail at the beach club or 24-hour lobby bar. Evenings come alive with music and live shows, while spacious two-bedroom family suites and a choice of eight restaurants and bars ensure something for every taste.
Rates from £149 a night, from 20 October 2026.
Wyndham Grand Kalamis
For families looking to combine autumn sunshine with the buzz of a vibrant city, this elegant five-star hotel sits on Kalamis Marina, with sweeping views across the Sea of Marmara. It’s an effortless base for a half-term that blends relaxation with exploration, from the boutiques of nearby Bağdat Avenue to the bazaars, ferries and palaces across the water.
Children are well catered for with a dedicated pool and play area, while spacious family and connecting rooms offer flexibility. Parents can retreat to the Blue Harmony Spa for a Turkish bath or massage or linger over long dinners and cocktails across the hotel’s seven restaurants and bars.
Rates from £157 a night, from 20 October 2026.
Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol
On the sun-soaked southern coast of Spain, Wyndham Grand Costa del Sol offers a welcoming base for a family half-term. Set in peaceful Mijas Costa, just twenty minutes from Málaga Airport and a five-minute walk from the beach, the resort features both a heated indoor pool and a large outdoor saltwater pool.
Designed with families in mind, three complimentary kids’ clubs cater to children aged 4 to 15, with activities ranging from arts and crafts to mocktail-making and movie nights. A dedicated teen zone and daily entertainment, from pool games to quizzes, keep all ages engaged.
The added bonus? Complimentary kids’ clubs give parents time to unwind, whether that’s at the adults-only VIP pool with Balinese day beds, in the full-service spa, or over sunset cocktails and live music at one of the resort’s bars.
Rates from £115 a night, from 20 October 2026.
Palladium Hotel Menorca, Trademark Collection
Perched on a hillside overlooking Arenal d’en Castell, this contemporary all-inclusive resort makes the most of Menorca’s quieter east coast – part of a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and just 300 metres from the beach. Three swimming pools, including a children’s pool with slides, ensure there’s something for everyone.
The Kids Only Club keeps younger guests entertained with arts and crafts, sports and games, followed by a mini disco each evening. A full programme of shows and live music ensures fun for all ages.
As the sun sets over the bay, parents can relax with cocktails across three stylish bars, including the Sa Pomada theatre bar. With a focus on Menorcan cuisine and easy access to beautiful nearby coves, it’s an effortless and rewarding half-term escape.
Rates from £184 a night, from 20th October 2026.
Images supplied.
