Booking a family getaway can be a taxing prospect, especially if you are restricted to school holidays, but don’t worry – I promise you, there are options. One of my favourite go-to destinations when I am thinking ‘family friendly’ is Stegna in Rhodes. Bathed in Greek sunshine but quiet, relaxing and friendly, this is the perfect destination for parents and kids alike.
Three Top Attractions in Stegna
Stegna Beach
A lovely combination of sand and pebble, this long beach stretches out in front of a line of pretty hills. Despite its beauty, it escapes the crowds associated with many other Greek beach resorts and you can look forward to tranquillity and privacy.
I love the fact that there is only one big hotel here. The rest of the accommodation is small, personable and friendly. Kids will love playing on the beach, climbing on the rocks and snorkelling in the calm clear waters. This is a wonderful place to spend time together as a family.
The seafront is lined with restaurants and little markets and, for the more active family, it is worth mentioning that there are water sports available too. While most families tend to self-cater, I highly recommend you take a break for a night or two, dine out and sample the area’s wonderful fish.
Butterfly Forest
Holidaying at a beach resort with kids means that you need to have lots of options up your sleeve when it comes to filling the days. That is why, if you choose to stay in Stegna, I recommend a visit to Butterfly Valley, a stunning nature reserve and fantastic learning opportunity for everyone in the family. Not only is the forest beautiful but it is also the only place in Europe to see the Liquidambar Orientalis (or oriental sweetgum tree). You may even catch a sighting of the Jersey tiger moth.
As you walk through the beautiful valley towards the monastery, butterflies will flit and flutter about you and the kids are bound to be enchanted by all they see.
Miniature Horses
I don’t know any youngster who doesn’t like horses and what could be better than mini ones? Mid-week, when the kids need a break form the beach, take them on a trip to the Faethon Miniature Horses Farm in Archangelos. Run by volunteers, this place is a haven for lovers of our equine friends. Kids will have the chance to pet the animals and learn lots more about them too!
For family-friendly fun in the sun, Stegna is definitely top of my list!
Where to Stay
Kozas Studios – One of the many beachfront properties, Kozas Studios is a favourite with families. Well-equipped individual studios look out over the sea, and supermarkets and cafes are within a stone’s throw, making self-catering a breeze. There is even a coffee machine in the kitchenette; a real treat when the parents need a caffeine fix to start the day.
Mediterraneo – These simple, clean and fresh apartments, just one minute away from the beach, are an excellent self-catering accommodation. Air conditioning is a real bonus, especially when the kids need to relax, cool down and replenish their energy after a long day.
For my family, the grocery deliveries and packed lunches that can be ordered at Mediterraneo made self-catering a breeze – and we loved the BBQ facilities they offer!
Stegna Bay Apartment – An ideal base for a family, these apartments are almost right on the beachfront. Close to lots of activities and only a short trip form the airport, the location of this spot is hugely appealing when you are travelling with youngsters.
Another children-focused plus point is the free WiFi. While you won’t want them using their screens too much, sometimes they are useful when everyone needs some down time.
The private apartments at Stegna Bay offer that much-needed space in which to spread out and the kitchens are perfect for self-catering and storing snacks for the kids.
How to Get to Stegna
Stegna is a fabulous destination for families. It is easy to get to and there is plenty of choice when it comes to flights. easyJet, Jet2 and British Airways all offer four-hour service to Rhodes Airport, and if you do your research you can get some excellent deals.
Booking a transfer with Shuttle Direct is definitely the best way to get to your hotel from the airport. It is much simpler than trying to navigate public transport and when you have children in tow you need things to be as stress-free as possible. A private transfer for a large family is very affordable, and once you’ve pre-booked in the UK, you have nothing more to worry about.
About Shuttle Direct
At Shuttle Direct, we are proud of our status as one of the go-to transfer companies in Europe and North Africa. Whether you’re travelling individually or as a family, you are guaranteed a comfortable, reliable and seamless transfer when you book with us. Pre-book before you travel to make the process even more efficient.
