Turkey is the perfect choice for a family holiday, with welcoming locals, great beaches, splendid shopping, a range of excursions and some of the finest family friendly resorts, many offering all-inclusive with great value to be had.
There are several that I send families of all ages to but when having to choose just one, I am drawn to the Maxx Royal, which never fails to produce great feedback from my clients.
Don’t be deceived by the 'golf resort' in its name either. Although fairway fans will delight in the impressive 18-hole golf course designed by Colin Montgomerie and the provision of world-class golf facilities, The Maxx Royal is a modern, all-suite hotel with fantastic family facilities, located on a luxurious beachside setting on one of Antalya’s most beautiful bays close to the centre of Belek.
The hotel is perfectly positioned for guests to enjoy the warm Mediterranean Sea, the sand of its 300-metre private beach and the natural landscape with views out to the Taurus mountains.
Activities
You won’t have to worry in the slightest about the children being entertained here. Younger guests are very well catered for with an array of facilities to keep them happy, including dedicated kids clubs up to 17 years, an aqua park with multiple water slides, rides and an adventure playground, gymnastic areas, creative activities, an on-site fun fair, adventure park and both indoor and outdoor pools.
Older and active kids will make the most of opportunities for canoeing, windsurfing and diving as well as excellent football and tennis facilities.
It's not just children who have the fun here though. Knowing they are content will allow adults to switch off from the stresses of daily life without a worry and unwind for some restorative relaxation and rejuvenation.
The seven sparkling pools are perfectly placed to enjoy the serene, luxurious surroundings and the thirteen bars ensure comprehensive freedom of choice with each having its own, unique design.
The beach area features a jetty built on the sea with pavilions, an exclusive bar and elegant sunbeds and there is plenty of nature to explore with a stroll around the beautifully maintained grounds.
Take time out for a massage or body scrub at the sumptuous Aven Royal Spa, perfect for reinvigorating the body and soul with a superb collection of treatments on offer.
The assortment of water and land sports available will keep those wanting a little more activity satisfied and there is a comprehensive programme of daily activities organised by the friendly staff.
Accommodation
As you would expect with a resort priding itself on its family credentials, accommodation options are plentiful with a variety of suites and villas and a particularly impressive selection of two-bed solutions.
Dining Options
The X-factor when choosing a suitable all-inclusive family holiday though may often come down to food options and the Maxx scores impressively with a feast of flavours and fantastic quality across its seven à la carte restaurants (one offering 24 hour-service), the excellent Azure main buffet restaurant, two children's restaurants, a patisserie, a chocolatier and three snack corners.
There is a small supplement on top of all-inclusive* for some restaurants, but it is unquestionably worthwhile.
My clients specifically rave about the Bueno Steak House; and the Gastro under the leadership of world-renowned Italian chef Alfredo Russo is the latest impressive addition.
Entertainment
Summer entertainment highlights include renowned DJs and the world’s most talented dancers along with regular shows and performances.
Belek's vibrant markets are close by for a browse or shop for local goodies to take home.
The Maxx Royal is not just a fantastic summer holiday either, with May and October half-term also attractive times and favoured by many families.
All-Inclusive
What's included?
Maxx Inclusive offers breakfast, lunch and dinner in the main buffet restaurant, or one of the many à la carte restaurants which include Azure Turk, Azure Italia, Azure Fish and Bueno Steak House.
Azure 24 offers international à la carte dishes, 24 hours a day. A selection of snacks are available throughout the day, as well as ice cream, patisserie products and a chocolatier offering handmade Belgian chocolates and drinks.
Hot beverages, non-alcoholic and branded alcoholic drinks are available throughout the many bars, along with a fully stocked room minibar.
Entertainment includes live music, cooking lessons, pool games, table tennis, beach volleyball and much more.
Access to the spa, including use of the Turkish bath, sauna, steam bath and fitness centre.
