Regnum Carya

Sun-drenched days spent on a private white-sand beach that melts into crystal-clear waters, adrenaline-fuelled fun at Aqualantis… is there anything better? Probably not – as long as you’re a water baby that is. Land-dwellers can have their sports and their spa days, this one is for lovers of all things sand, sea, and sparkling pools.

Whether you’ve got a budding Michael Phelps on your hands or you’re the brave soul climbing to the top of that actually-quite-tall-now-I’m-up-here water slide, you’re in for a whole world of water-based fun here. Pools for littles and grown-ups – with a sunken swim-up bar in the latter for in-water sips – slides for all manner of courage levels, and a pier that becomes the perfect perch at sunset… all in a day’s work at Regnum Carya.

Capturing that elusive family holiday magic is no mean feat – but they’ve managed it brilliantly here. Little ones are whisked away into a world made just for them. Think Lego rooms, cooking workshops, outdoor adventures, and even a pint-sized amphitheatre for shows and movie nights.

And there’s no one-size-fits-all approach, either. Youngsters are split into four different cohorts, starting with the tiniest tots at the baby club, right up to the almost-adults at the teenage club. Wherever they land, they’ll be treated to days filled with fun and games, creativity, and the kind of experiences that will stick with them long after the face paint has faded.

Here, the well-being set-up goes far beyond saunas and spa treatments. And though they might be top of our list when it comes to pampering, there’s something to be said for a long walk, a deep breath, and a sea breeze – sometimes it’s the simplest things that do wonders for the soul. Between yoga in the forest, Zumba under open skies, and quiet woodland paths where the dawn chorus replaces your playlist, you could find your inner zen without ever setting foot in the spa.

But why not check it out anyway? Steam rooms and saunas, Hammams and massage menus – it’s at least worth a look, right? Expect treatments infused with organic oils – and toxin-free products thanks to their eco and health-conscious mantra – heated spa pools, and relaxation zones that invite you to stop for a minute – or several – and revel in the peace and quiet.

Whiling away your afternoons poolside is all well and good, but if you fancy a holiday with a bit more oomph, Regnum Carya delivers in spades. Mornings might start with a sun-drenched rally on the clay courts, an impromptu beach volleyball match, or teeing off beneath the pines.

As day turns to night the party animals get their chance to shine with live music, shows, and swish soirées under the stars. In a place without schedules, with no errands to run and no deadlines to meet, you set the agenda. Doing nothing is lovely, but making life-long memories? Even better.

The adults-only pool with its own swim-up bar. Because in a place like this, even leaving the water is too much trouble.

The deep blue sea on the doorstep. We’re suckers for sea swims, and this part of the world is particularly lovely when it comes to taking a dip.

The sheer amount of bars. There are 15 drinking spots at the Regnum Carya, more than enough to be getting on with.