#Sandbanks Cream Tea

[loans0-blog]

Top Four Resorts in the Maldives That You Just Cannot Ignore

Talking about the best spa resorts in the Maldives, this one too is known for its attention to detail. Its youthful, contemporary design is attractive to anybody, who appreciates modern style. Unique underground nightcluband two-cabin yacht cruises are the unique offerings of the resort, which is above the best reefs in the whole Maldives.The resort is located on a private island within the North Ari Atoll, which is a 1.5-hour speedboat ride or a 25-minute seaplane transfer from Malé International Airport. A private W Lounge is available at Malé International Airport. Your Maldives holiday package to this place offers spacious villas with direct beach access, reef or ocean access and come with a private plunge pool. They are fitted with a 42-inch plasma TV, a BOSE CD and DVD player. Comforts include W's signature bedding, outdoor daybeds, a tea/coffee maker and mini-bar. The private bathroom comes with a rain shower, toiletries and a hairdryer. Free WiFi is accessible in the rooms.The hotel features a diving centre, fitness centre and outdoor infinity pool. Relaxation can be found at AWAY® Spa, which has a menu of massage, Ayurvedic and facial treatments. Guests can also enjoy activities ranging from water sports, yoga and aqua aerobics.If you book a Maldives holiday package with this resort, you can enjoy the inviting blue waters, beautiful reefs and white sands of the Maldives. The place offers a tranquil escape to the peace-lovers.For food lovers, you have The Kitchen, bar lounge and restaurant that serves an international menu. Barbecued food can be found at The Fire. W Maldives speciality restaurant, FISH set above the Indian Ocean serves seafood. Cocktails and assorted beverages are featured at SIP.Categories: Maldives Travel PlanningThe Maldives, an archipelago of fascinating islands with flowing coral reefs and magnetic lagoons, is binding avid travellers from all over the world. The pleasant weather all year round is an added bonus to the infinite bounties that the Maldives has to offer. All these reasons make the vista an ideal vacation spot for one and all.

With so much on offer and a deep desire to visit the island haven, it might get a little difficult to choose the right resort for a Maldives holiday package, because almost all offer extraordinary Maldivian magic.

However, we present you with the top 4 best resorts in the Maldives to choose from and make the best of your stay in this tropical paradise.

Soneva Fushi Resort

It is located on Kunfunadhoo Island at Baa Atoll in the Maldives. This one of the most romantic resorts in the Maldives started as a local resort, which later graduated to an international chain of hotels and spas. The high point of the resort is that it keeps innovating to better the amenities and services to offer absolute rejuvenation and relaxation to the guests.

Baa Atoll in the Maldives is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and it houses this private island whose dense foliage is home to spacious luxury villas at Soneva Fushi. A 30-minute seaplane transfer from Malé International Airport takes you to this eco-friendly resort. All villas and rooms at the resort are kept extraordinarily and have direct access to the beach. Signature bathrooms in a large private bathroom with outdoor shower areas and separate bathtubs are unbelievable. Couples can explore the island on complimentary bicycles, visit the open air Cinema Paradiso, count Saturn’s rings in the high-tech observatory, relish the delicacies in the homemade chocolate and ice-cream rooms, choose from 500 varieties of wine at the resort and eat at a mix of casual and fine-dining restaurants. Not only this, but you can also learn the art of glass blowing at the Maldives’ only glass studio, discover the waters with complimentary non-motorized water sports, and sail aboard Soneva’s luxury two-bedroom yacht, Soneva in Aqua. For honeymooners and romantic couples, spending a private and remote evening and overnight at the Sandbank will be a unique experience under the stars.

Shangri-La’s Villingili Resort and Spa

A remote island, Villingili, houses one of the best resorts in the Maldives, which is surrounded by lush vegetation and 3 lakes. The Shangri-las are famous for building villas in the trees and around them too, instead of cutting them. Thus, staying in one of these with a Maldives holiday package is a magical experience altogether. This unconventional luxury resort also offers yacht cruise across the equator. The property offers luxurious villas in Maldive's Addu Atoll with free WiFi access throughout the property including all rooms. Boasting a white sandy beach, it has an infinity pool, a spa and a 9-hole golf course, which is the only one of its kind in the Maldives. Placed lavishly amidst tropical greenery, this ultramodern resort creates a perfect harmony with nature. The air-conditioned villas are equipped with a 40-inch flat-screen TV, Bose DVD player and an iPod with a docking station. Extras include an espresso machine, dental kit and slippers. The specially made over-water villas also offer a private pool. You can reach the resort in a 70-minute flight from Malé International Airport and a 5-minute boat ride from Gan Airport at Addu Atoll.

Explore the neighbouring islands, work out at the fitness centre, practice yoga or enjoy a scenic jog on the marked trails, indulge in water activities include kayaking, scuba diving and cruising on a luxury yacht or soothing spa treatments are offered at CHI - The Spa. The recreation options at this island resort are endless.

If you are a food connoisseur, you get a range of culinary specialities from the Indian Ocean, the South China Sea and the Arabian Gulf at Dr. Ali's. Jaavu offers al fresco dining around the clock, with dishes from around the world. At Fashala Lounge you get Mediterranean-inspired recipes with local produce from the neighbouring farms and fresh seafood.

Six Senses Laamu

Blending well with nature, Six Senses does not disturb Laamu Atoll’s vibes at all. Located on Olhuveli Island, you can reach the resort in a 35-minute inter-island domestic flight from Malé International Airport to Kadhdhoo, followed by a short speedboat ride. It is the only resort at this atoll, situated 150 kms from the equator. Rustic villas are a treat to live in, with glass see-through tables that help you connect with the ocean. This peaceful resort offers Ayurvedic spa treatments, diving centre and Mediterranean cuisine. The surroundings comprise clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches.

The villas come with a 37-inch flat-screen TV and Bose entertainment system. Rooms offer free WiFi. Beautifully designed, air-conditioned villas feature an outdoor bathroom with rain shower where guests can shower under the stars. Private day beds and sun loungers let the guests enjoy the Maldivian sun from the comfort of the villas. Rooms offer electric kettle, slippers and dental kit.

For food lovers, LEAF restaurant and lounge serves modern Mediterranean dishes prepared with fresh organic ingredients. For people who love while premium wine and cheese, they can head to Altitude Wine Cellar.  Other dining options include international cuisine at Longitude, pizza at Sip Sip, ice cream at Ice and drinks at the Chill Bar.

W Maldives

Talking about the best spa resorts in the Maldives, this one too is known for its attention to detail. Its youthful, contemporary design is attractive to anybody, who appreciates modern style. Unique underground nightcluband two-cabin yacht cruises are the unique offerings of the resort, which is above the best reefs in the whole Maldives.The resort is located on a private island within the North Ari Atoll, which is a 1.5-hour speedboat ride or a 25-minute seaplane transfer from Malé International Airport. A private W Lounge is available at Malé International Airport. Your Maldives holiday package to this place offers spacious villas with direct beach access, reef or ocean access and come with a private plunge pool. They are fitted with a 42-inch plasma TV, a BOSE CD and DVD player. Comforts include W's signature bedding, outdoor daybeds, a tea/coffee maker and mini-bar. The private bathroom comes with a rain shower, toiletries and a hairdryer. Free WiFi is accessible in the rooms.The hotel features a diving centre, fitness centre and outdoor infinity pool. Relaxation can be found at AWAY® Spa, which has a menu of massage, Ayurvedic and facial treatments. Guests can also enjoy activities ranging from water sports, yoga and aqua aerobics.

If you book a Maldives holiday package with this resort, you can enjoy the inviting blue waters, beautiful reefs and white sands of the Maldives. The place offers a tranquil escape to the peace-lovers.For food lovers, you have The Kitchen, bar lounge and restaurant that serves an international menu. Barbecued food can be found at The Fire. W Maldives speciality restaurant, FISH set above the Indian Ocean serves seafood. Cocktails and assorted beverages are featured at SIP.

[hokalohnews]

Hokaloh News Updated: Ingat Bercuti Ke Sabah, Rupanya Dapat ‘Surprise’ Ke Maldives. Bajet RM3358, 5H4M All-In. Romantik! | Travel Hokaloh News

https://hokaloh.news/pelancongan/ingat-bercuti-ke-sabah-rupanya-dapat-surprise-ke-maldives-bajet-rm3358-5h4m-all-in-romantik-travel-hokaloh-news/

Sejak Airasia menawarkan penerbangan pertama ke Maldives pada akhir tahun 2015, lokasi tersebut kian mendapat perhatian rakyat Malaysia terutamanya mereka yang inginkan percutian bertemakan pulau dan pantai yang indah.

Di sini kami kongsikan sedikit coretan Cikpuan Nor Azlin, yang lebih mesra dengan panggilan Alink. Menariknya, ini adalah trip kejutan hari jadi buat suaminya, Hafiz. Awalnya, mereka bercadang ke Sabah, tetapi Alink yang menguruskan tiket dan penginapan telah membuat perancangan untuk meraikan percutian mereka di Maldives. Mereka berada di sana selama 5 hari 4 malam, iaitu pada 15 Oktober hingga 20 Oktober 2017. Sweet sangat, kan?

Mari kita ikuti perkongsian beliau selanjutnya di bawah ini.

Serba Sedikit Tentang Maldives

Kalau yang pernah survey tentang Maldives, di sini terdapat 1192 buah pulau, di mana 200 buah pulau sahaja yang didiami manusia. Untuk menginap di Maldives, anda boleh pilih untuk menginap di 3 buah pulau utama iaitu Hulhumale, Male, dan Maafushi (ini untuk jimatlah). Kalau bajet lebih banyak, anda boleh memilih mana-mana private island yang kena dengan bajet anda.

Adaaran Pristage Vadooo, sebuah pulau persendirian yang sinonim dengan pemandangan di Maldives. Walaupun tak dapat bermalam, dapat melawat seharian pun dah bersyukur sangat. Kos penginapan 1 malam lebih kurang 3k.

3 Pulau Utama Di Maldives

Hulhumale adalah pulau di mana terletaknya lapangan terbang utama, iaitu Velena International Airport. Di situ juga ada bandar kecil dan pantai yang cantik. Anda boleh menggunakan bas / teksi dengan kadar yang murah di sana.

Male pula adalah pulau yang terletaknya pusat Kerajaan Maldives. Bandar ini agak padat dan sibuk dengan pelbagai sektor perikanan dan lain-lain. Agak serabut sedikit di Male, jalanrayanya sempit dan sesak.

Maafushi pula adalah pulau yang penuh dengan hotel yang sesuai untuk backpackers macam Alink. Maafushi tak sunyi, ada pelbagai fasiliti seperti sekolah, bank, masjid, dan kedai makan. Di Maafushi penuh dengan penduduk dan pekerja pekerja yang mesra alam dan bagi Alink, Maafushi adalah pilihan terbaik untuk kita berkenalan dengan pelancong dari negara negara lain. Maafushi ada bikini beach yang membolehkan pelancong memakai bikini di kawasan pantai. Buat pengetahuan, Maldives adalah negara Islam dan 98% penduduk mereka beragama Islam. Jadi, sebab itulah bikini hanya dibenarkan di private island atau di bikini beach sahaja.

No bikini beach

Perbezaan Waktu Maldives – Malaysia

Beza waktu Malaysia dengan Maldives adalah Maldives lebih lewat 3 jam berbanding Malaysia.

Waktu Subuh di sini sekitar jam 3 pagi, dan anda pasti akan dapat tidur yang berlebihan di sini sebab Malaysia dah pukul 7 pagi tapi di Maldives masih 4 pagi. Anda pun berkemungkinan besar akan berasa mengantuk awal sebab pukul 12 malam di Malaysia baru pukul 9 malam di Maldives. Hehe.

Matawang Di Maldives

Matawang Maldives adalah Rufiyaa (MVR) tapi kebanyakan urusan perniagaan dijalankan dgn matawang USD terutamanya jika dengan pelancong. Ada sesetengah tempat menggunakan matawang Rufiya, sesetengah lagi USD. Jadi anda kena sediakan duit USD dan juga Rufiya.

Untuk penukaran matawang, USD boleh terus ditukar dari Malaysia manakala Rufiyaa boleh terus ditukar dari kaunter pertukaran wang asing di Velana Airport Maldives. Sebaik saja keluar dari Imigresen, terus belok kiri.

Alink nasihatkan tukar dalam 50USD saja untuk matawang Rufiya. Tempoh hari kami tukar 100USD yang bersamaaan dengan 1500MVR (Rufiyaa). Kami cuma gunakan 116 Rufiyaa saja. Jenuh nak tukar ke USD semula sebab kena tunjuk resit pertukaran yang mula-mula tadi. Kalau resit hilang, sorry to say lah.

Perbelanjaan Di Malaysia

Penerbangan dan hotel sudah ditempah secara online dari Malaysia. Waktu promosi Airasia. Hotel pula Alink tempah melalui Agoda.com. Kalau nak murah, tempah waktu tengah malam, sekitar jam 1-3 pagi.

Ini adalah jumlah perbelanjaan untuk tiket penerbangan.

  Penerbangan Kota Bharu-KL

RM 49 x 2 org Check-in beg seorang RM 28 ………………………….. Jumlah : RM 126

Penerbangan KL-MALE

RM 396 x 2 org Check-in beg seorang RM 78 Select seat RM 7 x 2 …………………………… Jumlah : RM 884

Penerbangan MALE-KL

RM 495 x 2 org Check-in beg seorang RM 78 Select seat RM 7 …………………………… Jumlah : RM 1075

Penerbangan KL- Kota Bharu

RM 49 x 2 org Check-in beg RM 28.00 ……………………………. Jumlah : RM 126

  Penginapan

Hotel Newtown In Hulhumale ( 1 night with breakfast ) …………………… RM 242.16

Hotel Crystal Sand ( 3 nights, no breakfast ) ……………………. RM 1,125.93

Jumlah perbelanjaan hotel dan tiket penerbangan adalah RM 3,579.09 untuk 2 orang.

Itinerari di Maldives

Hari Pertama : 15 Oktober 2017 ( Ahad )

Sesampainya kami di Velana Airport, terus tukar duit. Kami beli simcard Dhiraggu yang berharga 30USD untuk 2 simcard. Kedai simcard terletak berdekatan dengan tempat tukar duit.

Kemudian, naik local bus 40 MVR (Rufiyaa) untuk 2 orang dan terus ke hotel Newtown Inn (bus stop terakhir). Bus stop ke Bandar Hulhumale  terletak di luar airport berhadapan dengan Jetty Speedboat Airport. 

Bagi yang nak terus ke Maafushi pon boleh terus naik speedboat dari Airport ke Maafushi. Jangan risau, malam pun masih ada speedboat lagi. Cuma mengikut apa yang Alink dengar, kalau malam harganya 35USD satu kepala berbeza dengan 25USD pada waktu siang. Malam pertama di Maldives, kami menginap di Hulhumale. Badan pun dah penat, kami makan maggi saja.

Hari Kedua : 16 Oktober 2017 ( Isnin )

*Sarapan – Dah termasuk dalam pakej Hotel Newtown Inn.

*Kami ambil local taxi ke Jetty Hulhumale ( 25 MVR ). Pakcik pemandu tu memang jujur dan amanah. Ini nombornya 093359090 .

*Feri dari Hulhumale ke Male 5.5 MVR seorang, dua orang maksudnya ( 11 MVR ).

*Dari Jetty Male kami gunakan perkhidmatan teksi lagi ke Bangkok Jetty, dimana kita boleh naik speedboat ke Maafushi. Tambang teksi di Male ‘cekik darah’ sikit sebab kami bawa banyak beg katanya ( 40 MVR )

*Kami terpaksa naik speedboat sebab hari Isnin tu feri pukul 3 petang baru jalan. Harga tambang speedboat ( 50 USD ) untuk 2 orang manakala kalau naik feri 2 USD saja seorang.  Tapi naik speedboat 45 minit dah sampai Maafushi, kalau naik feri pula 2 jam.

*Sesampainya ke Jetty Maafushi, staf Hotel Crystal Sand datang angkat beg kami dan kami diberi ice lemon tea sambil diterangkan pakej excursion yang hotel tawarkan. Harganya 360USD untuk 2 orang dan memang inilah harga paling murah sebab Alink dah survey pakej di hotel lain. Pakejnya termasuk snorkeling, night fishing, sandbank visiting, candle light dinner, water sport macam parasailing, jetski, funtube dan lain-lain lagi selama 4 hari. Siap dapat FREE AIR PORT TRANSFER dan FREE DINNER BUFFET.

*Petang tu sepatutnya kami buat water sport tapi jetski under maintainance. Jadi kami diajar berjinak-jinak dengan air laut. Dia guide kami snorkeling tepi pantai yang tenang. Seronok!

*Malam tu juga kami diberi makan malam percuma oleh Crystal Sand Hotel.  Hotel ni memang cool dan supportive! Syukur Alhamdulillah…

Jetski dari Maafushi ke sandbank ambil masa sekitar 10 minit. Seram juga sebab ombak agak besar.

Hari Ketiga : 17 Oktober 2017 ( Selasa ) 

*Sarapan pagi kami masak sendiri.

*Half Board Snorkeling Trip ( 9 pagi – 3 petang ) – Snorkeling Giri Point , Nemo Point , Stringray & Turtle Point – ‎ Makan tengah hari di sandbank – FREE Go Pro Photography

*Kemudian balik Maafushi semula dan berehat sekejap.

*Petangnya kami main jetski dan dibawa ke sand bank buat kali kedua. Tapi kali ini sand bank yang bersambung dengan Cocoa Resort 5 star. Wow, so fantastic babe!

*Malamnya, ada Special Candle Light Dinner yang menunya cukup lazat. Seronoknya makan tepi pantai dengan angin pantai yang sejuk. Ini menunya.

: Mixed Vegetable Salad : Fruit Salad : Mushroom Soup : Beriyani Rice : Prawns ,Lobster, Fish Steak , Cuttlefish : Jus mangga : Aiskrim Cornetto

*Tak cukup dengan itu, hotel ada juga buat kejutan untuk Hafiz, mereka hantar Brownies Ice Cream Cake dan Vanilla Hot Chocolate ke bilik. Aduh, memang sweet sangat Hotel Crystal Sand ni.

Candle light dinner yang disediakan oleh pihak hotel.

Kejutan dari pihak hotel. Sweet sangat!

Hari Keempat : 18 Oktober 2017 ( Rabu ) 

*Disebabkan kami dah nak balik esok malam, jadi kami cancel Full Day Snorkeling Trip kami dan ganti dengan Visiting Private Island. Pulau pilihan kami adalah *Adaaran Prestige Vadoo Resort ( 5 stars ).

*Seorang sepatutnys 120 USD, tapi kami perlu tambah 80 USD sahaja  sebab kami tolak Full Day Snorkeling Trip tadi.

Bayaran meliputi :

Tax

Pengangkutan

Unlimited drink

Lunch

Hi Tea

Tuala

Guna swimming pool

Snorkeling kawasan resort, tapi peralatan boleh minta dengan hotel di Maafushi tadi. Jangan lupa bawa ya.

*Kami lepak di private island sejak jam 7.45 pagi sampai 6.00 petang. Memang syok habis.

*Malam terakhir kami, sekali lagi Crystal Sand bagi kami berdua makan Dinner Buffet dengan percuma. Memang terharu sangat. Tak pernah dapat layanan terbaik macam ni.

*Lepas makan malam, kami dibawa buat night trekking sambil suluh baby shark dan stringray di pesisiran pantai. Dapat keliling satu Maafushi. Sangat best!

  Hari Kelima : 19 Oktober 2017 ( Khamis )

*Pagi ini kami makan sarapan di sekitar Maafushi. Nak juga merasa menu special yang kerapkali dishare dalam itinerari orang lain bila ke Maldives. Kami makan di Harbour Cafe.

*Lepas makan, kami buat aktiviti air Funtube yang masih ada dalam pakej hotel tempoh hari.

*Kemudian kami berehat dan cari souvenir kawasan Maafushi ( 90 USD ) kami shopping. Ikutkan kami nak check out pukul 12 dan nak cari souvenir di Hulhumale, dengar kata macam lagi murah. Tapi manager hotel, Encik Ibrahim macam susah nak lepaskan kami, siap bagi kami late check out. Memang terharu tahap nak menangis. Marie, Afson, Navin, Reef, semua Tarangga staf hotel yang banyak guide kami. Suka menyakat kami tak habis-habis, memang susah nak say goodbye sebab mereka baik sangat.

*Jam 5.00 petang speedboat sampai dan kami dapat FREE SpeedBoat Airport Transfer sperti mana dalam pakej hotel tawarkan pada kami.

*Flight kami malam tu pula delay. Sepatutnya jam 8.55 malam, tapi delay hingga 10.45 malam waktu Maldives. Fuh.. Sempat juga kami ronda airport, makan Burger King ( 20 USD ) sebelum flight smpai. Kami tiba di Malaysia tepat jam 6.15 pagi dan terus ke flight domestik balik ke Kota Bharu.

Pulau Maafushi

Perbelanjaan Di Maldives

: 730 USD : 115.50 MVR ( lebih kurang 8 USD )

730 + 8 USD = 738 USD

738 x 4.25 ( current money changer exchange )

RM 3136.50 ( belanja di Maldives ) RM 3579.09 ( belanja di Malaysia )

JUMLAH KESELURUHAN : RM 6715.59 untuk 2 orang selama 5 hari 4 malam. Atau lebih kurang RM 3358 seorang termasuk penginapan dan tiket penerbangan.

Kalau datang ramai, bilik boleh kongsi dan cuma tambah extra bed. Water sport activity boleh dapat lebih murah.

Ada juga hotel yang lebih murah daripada Crystal Sand. Alink cadangkan untuk ambil pakej dengan Icom, iaitu sejenis perkhidmatan excursion activities, speedboat dan lain-lain. Lokasinya bersebelahan dengan Crystal Sand. Harganya lebih murah. Tapi kalau nak mudah boleh terus pilih Crystal Sand, memang pakej yang ditawarkan amat berbaloi.

  Tips Tambahan

*Kalau nak jimat ke Maldives, paling penting adalah grab tiket murah. Boleh beli setahun awal atau masa promosi. Paling murah Alink tengok setakat ini RM304. Kena ada duit simpanan, bila ada peluang tiket murah nanti boleh terus beli.

*Satu lagi tips, bawalah makanan sendiri kalau nak save duit. Macam kami berdua, bawa sekali rice cooker, makanan dalam tin, sambal daging, timun dan budu dari Kelate. Biskut dan maggi pun ada termasuklah pinggan, gelas, dan sudu. Harga makanan di Maldives boleh tahan juga harganya. Jadi, save duit dulu, tengok hari-hari terakhir kalau ada banyak lebih lagi, bolehlah makan sedap-sedap.

*Plug point di Maldives sama macam di Malaysia. Jadi, tak perlu risau ya!

  **Perkongsian pengalaman dan tips ke Maldives ini disumbangkan oleh Cikpuan Nor Azlin dan ia diterbitkan semula dengan kebenaran beliau. Untuk sebarang pertanyaan dan tips lanjut, boleh follow FB beliau di SINI.

#Pelancongan #Berita #Buddy #ItinerariMaldives2017 #News #Percutian #Pocket #Semasa #Terkini #TipsPercutianKeMaldives

[ergohacks]

The Ergohacks Verdict

Please note that Brownsea Island admission or a valid National Trust Membership is required to access The Villano Cafè. This venue can only be reached by Brownsea Island Ferry. 

We took the Ferry across to Brownsea Island on a blustery day in Autumn and after a fruitful Red Squirrel walk, we stopped in at the Villano Cafè for lunch. It’s a typical National Trust Cafè with the usual lunch menu – soup of the day, a hotpot or stew, one or two main meals, a few sides, a children’s picnic lunch box, cakes, coffees and cream teas. We ordered a chicken curry, fishcakes and a children’s packed lunch with a side of truly indulgent crispy potato wedges.

The food quality was good, the fish cakes definitely won the prize for the meal of the day, but the curry came a close second. The coffee was hot and freshly brewed and tap water was freely available. It’s the location that really stole the show. We picked a table outside and as the peacocks curiously wandered by, we watched the boats sailing into the harbour. It’s the perfect place to sit between walks around the island or to stop in for a hot drink on a cool autumn day and probably great for ice-cream in the summer as well. Recommended.

Cost 

Price: Well priced for fresh, sustainably produced, local and seasonal food. We paid just under £20 for a light lunch for three. Hot drinks ranged from £1.80 (Tea for one) to £3.10 (Large Mocha).

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Features

Season: Closed for winter from 30 October 2017. Location: Brownsea Island, Poole Harbour, Poole, Dorset, BH13 7EETable Reservations: No Opening: 10 am Closing: 5 pm Timed restrictions: Lunch served 12 – 3 pm. Access: Generally good access, see full access statement here. Parking: Poole quayside car parks or Sandbanks: there is metered road parking available on the peninsula leading up to the ferry and a large car park within a ten-minute walk from the Sandbanks jetty.

Public transport – can only be accessed via Brownsea Island Ferry.  By Bus: For Sandbanks: services from Bournemouth, Swanage and Poole. For Poole Quay: alight Poole Bridge By Train: Poole station to Poole Quay, 0.5 miles; Branksome or Parkstone stations to Sandbanks Jetty, 3.5 miles. On Foot: Make your way either to Pool Quay or Sandbanks jetty for ferry access to Brownsea. Bicycle locks/storage: It’s not possible to bring bikes to the island.

Ingredients

Fresh sustainably produced, local and seasonal food are used to freshly prepare meals at the cafè.

Special considerations

Gluten-free options available. Vegan and vegetarian options are available. Low carb options are available. Dogs are not allowed on the island.

About The National Trust

“We’re a charity founded in 1895 by three people who saw the importance of our nation’s heritage and open spaces and wanted to preserve them for everyone to enjoy. More than 120 years later, these values are still at the heart of everything we do. We look after special places throughout England, Wales and Northern Ireland forever, for everyone.

As a charity, we rely for income on membership fees, donations and legacies, and revenue raised from our commercial operations. We have over 4.5 million members and 62,000 volunteers. More than 20 million people visit our pay for entry properties, while an estimated 100 million visit our open-air properties. We protect and open to the public over 350 historic houses, gardens and ancient monuments.

But it doesn’t stop there. We also look after forests, woods, fens, beaches, farmland, downs, moorland, islands, archaeological remains, castles, nature reserves, villages – forever, for everyone.”*

 We based our Ergohacks Verdict on a lovely hot lunch enjoyed at the cafè in Autumn 2017. This article was first published on 13 October 2017.  

Villano café on Brownsea Island The Ergohacks Verdict Please note that Brownsea Island admission or a valid National Trust Membership is required to access The Villano Cafè.

[cynthiabryanuk]

15 Best Family Holiday Destinations In The UK

Instead of searching endlessly in Google to find the best family holiday destinations in the UK, stop right here. We—or rather, the millions of travellers who make up our community—have already done the hard work for you!

Family-Friendly Breaks Your Kids Will Love

Our very clever and tech-savvy analysts at Holiday Lettings created an algorithm analysing ratings and reviews for every single UK property on our site. The aim? To identify which destinations around the UK have the best-reviewed family-friendly rentals—according to our travellers who have stayed in them.

The result is the following list of 15 top UK destinations for families. Enjoy… and happy holiday planning!

#15 Blackpool, Lancashire

“Stayed here as a group of 4 adults and 4 children. The house is beautiful, very clean, high standard, fully equipped with everything we could have possibly needed, well worth the money and would recommend this over a hotel/B&B any day.” — Holiday Lettings Reviewer

For decades, Blackpool’s been the capital of good old-fashioned entertainment. As its iconic tower approaches its 125th birthday, this town shows no signs of slowing down! What makes it one of the best family-friendly holiday destinations? Mainly, it’s the wealth of attractions and activities on offer to please all ages.

Penny Farm is perfect for toddlers and younger children to meet beautiful horses up close, while the excitement of Blackpool Pleasure Beach and thrill of The Big One rollercoaster will get even the surliest of teenagers to crack a smile. From magic shows to Strictly’s glittering Tower Ballroom, you’re guaranteed a fun-filled family stay in Blackpool.

See all holiday homes in Blackpool!

#14 St Andrews, Fife

A university town might not be the most obvious place to go on holiday with the family, but there’s something special about St Andrews. Kids can let their imaginations run wild as they explore the ruins of St Andrews Castle. They’ll also love exploring (not to mention tiring themselves out!) the wide, sandy beaches of West Sands or Kingsbarns. Animal lovers will want to visit the St Andrews Aquarium and Scottish Deer Centre, and if there are any keen golfers in the family, this town will suit them down to a tee.

See all holiday homes in St Andrews!

#13 Cromer, Norfolk

This Norfolk coastal town is a firm favourite with families looking for traditional fun beside the sea. The surrounding area is packed with attractions to delight adventurers young and old, from riding the North Norfolk steam railway to having tree-top fun at the Pensthorpe Natural Park. But the real heart of this destinations lies, of course, at the seaside. Don’t forget to sample some of the famous Cromer Crab and walk along the atmospheric Victorian pier while you’re there!

See all holiday homes in Cromer!

#12 Camber, East Sussex

With sand dunes stretching for miles along the picturesque East Sussex coast, Camber is one of the best family holiday destinations for relaxation. Kite-surfing is a must for sporty young things, while simply strolling along the beach is perfect for those who prefer a steadier pace.

This is “1066 country”, with plenty to fascinate history buffs (or any little ones just learning all about the Battle of Hastings!) including three castles. But, its attractions aren’t just historic: you can plan a submarine safari at the Blue Reef Aquarium or ride the UK’s steepest funicular railway!

See all holiday homes in Camber!

#11 Belfast, Northern Ireland

“We stayed on midterm break with our 4 kids. Suited us perfectly, very comfortable and relaxing in the evening after busy days at Titanic museum and W5. We couldn’t fault the place at all. Great location and very safe. Kids are planning their next visit!” — Holiday Lettings Reviewer

Welcome to Belfast–birthplace of the ill-fated Titanic and Northern Ireland’s capital. Belfast’s weather is predictably unpredictable, but it’s so packed with indoor and outdoor attractions that everyone will be happy in this vibrant city, come rain or shine, no matter the season. If you enjoy being outdoors, take a trip to Glenariff Forest Park. Here, you’ll get lost (metaphorically, of course) in a mosaic of lush green landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and steep-sided gorges.

See all holiday homes in Belfast!

#10 Filey, Yorkshire

This coastal town, with its rich fishing heritage and traditional seaside flavour, is not often absent from lists of recommended destinations to stay. You’ll find the locals friendly, the fish and chips unrivalled (which is a bold claim!) and the general pace of life just that little bit gentler.

There’s plenty here for families to enjoy together. If the weather is fine, you’ll probably find yourself on Filey beach or meeting the residents at the Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park. If the forecast is ropey, nearby Scarborough has a host of indoor activities from its Sea Life Sanctuary to the Terror Tower (best for tricky-to-impress teens).

See all holiday homes in Filey!

#9 Cheltenham, Cotswolds

Cheltenham (or Cheltenham Spa, to give it its full title) is a refined Regency-era town crammed with elegant boutiques and tea shops. But it’s not all grown-up glamour: this “cultural centre for the Cotswolds” also makes for a great UK family break. Kids will love the Funky Warehouse; a ginormous indoor activity centre with trampolining, parkour, and more. Nestled in the Gloucestershire countryside, Cheltenham is not too far from the Cotswold Farm Park. Pay a visit and you’ll no doubt have one of your best family holidays yet!

See all holiday homes in Cheltenham!

#8 Holsworthy, Devon

It’s perhaps no surprise to see a beautiful market town in Devon on our list of the UK’s best family-friendly holiday destinations. Holsworthy is tucked away between Exmoor and Dartmoor, surrounded by stunning West Country landscapes just begging to be explored! Cycling, walking, pony-trekking… all these activities (and more!) are available for the outdoorsy family.

As well as a warm and welcoming community atmosphere, the town itself has a rich agricultural heritage celebrated with a weekly Farmers Market. It’s the perfect place to pick up some fresh local produce and cook up a storm back in your holiday home’s kitchen.

See all holiday homes in Holsworthy!

#7 Bournemouth, Dorset

Seven miles of sandy beach bless Bournemouth’s shores, which is one of the (many!) reasons why it’s such a popular choice for UK family holidays. Watersports are a prominent feature along the seafront, with everything from surfing novices to professional kite-surfers whizzing (or wobbling…) through the water.

Bournemouth is also home to a fascinating oceanarium, where kids can get hands-on with the marine life through interactive activities. And don’t forget the thrill of Bournemouth Pier’s zip-line. But if that all sounds too exciting, retreat to the comfort of your rental for rest and relaxation.

See all holiday homes in Bournemouth!

#6 Shanklin, Isle of Wight

On the Isle of Wight’s pretty Sandown Bay, you’ll find Shanklin; a popular resort for family breaks with its own theatre and fun-packed esplanade. While you’re there, don’t miss Shanklin Chine—a 10,000-year-old, 32-metre-deep gorge cut into the soft cliffside by water—and one of the first tourist attractions on the island. Explore its winding woodland paths, pass by waterfalls and picture smugglers hiding their contraband here centuries ago.

See all holiday homes in Shanklin!

#5 Skegness, Lincolnshire

“We stayed here as an extended family of 15… We had a great week. The house is amazing and the garden just perfect for the children.” — Holiday Lettings Reviewer

Stalwart of the traditional British seaside holiday, “Skeggy” is packed to the rafters with fun family attractions, hence its status in our top five best family holiday destinations in the UK. Favourites include Fantasy Island (with its live shows and rollercoasters) and the resort’s Blue Flag beach (with its golden sands and ice cream vans.)

See all holiday homes in Skegness!

#4 Poole, Dorset

Not only is this corner of the Dorset coast home to Europe’s largest natural harbour, it boasts five beautiful sheltered beaches, including the famous Sandbanks. Patrolled all year round, it’s one of the safest places to go swimming with the kids. If you’re looking for a fun day out and love nature, Brownsea Island is a must! Pack up a picnic and explore the island’s trails, spotting red squirrels as you go.

For indoor fun, grab your swimming gear and head to Splashdown Waterpark, where you’ll find flumes and waterslides to delight kids for hours on end.

See all holiday homes in Poole!

#3 Buxton, Derbyshire

This pretty spa town sits in the spectacular surroundings of the Peak District, the UK’s very first National Park. Finding kid-friendly activities isn’t difficult: start at Poole’s Cavern, an exciting subterranean adventure exploring caves. Then, for any high flyers in your family group, try out the nearby Go Ape. The adventure park offers tree-top walks, ziplines, and more high-octane activities to keep everyone happy (and tire them out…)

See all holiday homes in Buxton!

#2 Matlock, Derbyshire

Located on the River Derwent, the former spa town of Matlock is one of the best places to go on holiday as a family in the UK. The delightful Dovedale Valley is nearby and makes a perfect picnic spot. For a slightly more cultured expedition, why not try the elegant Chatsworth House? The gardens include a tricky (but very entertaining) hedge maze, where you can start at opposite ends and see who reaches the middle first!

See all holiday homes in Matlock!

AND THE BEST FAMILY HOLIDAY DESTINATION IN THE UK IS…

#1 Truro, Cornwall

“This was a true find! It felt very luxurious and yet homely. I think part of that was because there seemed to have been so much attention to detail by the owners. With a 3 year old, it was fantastic to have the washer.” — Holiday Lettings Reviewer

As Cornwall’s only city, Truro is a bustling hub of urban activity surrounded by spectacular rural landscapes. Its soaring cathedral spires dominate the skyline for miles around. Explore the quaint streets and you’ll discover all manner of shops and weekly food markets. Book a holiday home in Truro, and you’ll be perfectly positioned to enjoy so many of Cornwall’s family-friendly attractions, from watersports at Loe Beach to riding Newquay’s Lappa Valley Steam Railway.

See all holiday homes in Truro!

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from News And Tips For Traveling https://blog.holidaylettings.co.uk/best-family-holiday-destinations-uk/

[rupertacton]

GET THE FUCK OUT OF LONDON

Having the dreams again. The city as a different city. Escape to the country. Relocation relocation. Seemingly endless city. Suburbia stretches out then coils back in on itself. Event horizon pierced. Escape velocity reached. I would move here. The pub is full of locals. Would I want to spend all my time with these people? Nothing to do but attach immense importance to small concerns. The travellers are back. You can't say anything these days. The council spent all the money on public art. It's not even art. Art to me is a painting on the wall. The sky is massive. Too big. Too much perspective. Waves crash on to the beach beneath the cottage. Clifftops. Rain hitting the windows. Step outside to look at the stars. Are they stars or the lights of ships on the horizon? Deep drag. Expel smoke. Riptides pull at the foundations of my brain. Bottles of local beer. Card games. I hate games. Unless I'm somewhere like this. Coastal path. Walking for the whole day. Freedom. People say hello to each other. Deeply unsettling. Bucolia. Unidentified birds of prey circle. Nature is brutal. We are nature. Sheep. Everywhere. I thought this was a National Park? Looks like a fucking farm to me. I've just read Feral. Will I give up this landscape for an Old Etonian's contentious vision of a future rewilded? Will I fuck. Maybe I will. It's persuasive. Snowdon. 2 hours sleep? At most. With the lads. LADS LADS LADS. Little dab of dizzle at the summit. As if this isn't exhilarating enough. Added spice though. Can't argue with that. Still haven't developed the disposable camera. Snowdon again. Just the two of us. Before. Pyg Track. We scramble up until we hit the snowline. Man at work. On lunch. Eating a sandwich. Looking at all of this. We trace the lines of distant roads as we loop back towards the car. My exploration depends on others abilities. I'm a good passenger. Paint testing station near Winchelsea. Almost magical in it's singular weirdness. Highly recommended. Trip Advisor. Bad trip advisor. Small towns on Friday nights. No one about. You could still get the shit kicked out of you if you're not careful. Guard down. Circling through cul-de-sacs to find the entrance to the woods. We walk to find a view of a water tower. Concrete outposts off A-roads. Motorway bridges. Sacred stones. Service stations as autonomous zones. Never just simply food. If it was up to me I would never leave. Everything is here. We leave. I bid a fond farewell. The break was welcome. 24 hours. 7 days a week. 365 days a year. Magical names. Taunton Deane. Leigh Delamere. Heston. Watford Gap. Pease Pottage. Incantations. The M5 just past Bristol. Terraced into the side of the hills. Views over Avonmouth. Car full of organic produce. 18 ounces in the boot. Secret location. Unassuming house. Daytrip. Cream tea. Wild mushroom risotto. Skin up if you want. Take some fudge. Made with Devon Cream. Journey back floating on a cloud. Journeys back from festivals. Stags. Keeping the driver awake. Haven't really slept all weekend. Woods near Crowborough. Back to nature. Tents pitched. Tarp shelter. DMT as the fire burns into the night. Group of kids on dirt bikes shocked by the sight of middle aged men living a post-apocalyptic dream amongst the ferns. Jake's tree. Emotions. These acres are infinite. Lundy Island. A point on the map. Wasn't sure it even existed outside of that. It does. Trust me. The journey back. Rough seas. Never been so aware of my own mortality. We survived. Just. Soaked. Friend tells us story in service station. Dark. Burger King. We console him. Rain pisses down. Islander visiting islands. Scilly. St Agnes. The Turk's Head. More than a holiday. A religious experience. We experience the sacred. One day the people will reclaim this magic from the Duchy Of Cornwall. This should belong to us all. THIS WHOLE ISLAND AND IT'S SURROUNDING ISLANDS SHOULD BE OURS. Can't ruin it anymore than these cunts with their grouse moors and shooting weekends and fox hunts and bad farming practices and subsidised lifestyles. But what do I know? Another know nothing city dweller. More islands. Hilbre. Ynys Mon. Foulness. Brownsea. Wight. Islands off islands off islands. Fractal shorelines. Retreat inland. Bad magic. Poundbury. I preferred Milton Keynes. This crowded island? Really? I walk for miles and see nobody. These people claim to love this country but I don't see them. They are in love with an idea. The actual thing scares them. It's not what they want. They want somewhere that doesn't exist. That never existed. One day I will stumble into a secret far right training camp and be used as target practice. Or some Jihadists will demonstrate some unarmed combat techniques on my person. I can't fucking wait. Deliverance. Who knows what darkness lurks just off the marked footpaths? Sacrificial altars just out of view of the picnic area. Orgies of copulation and fornication in AONB. Used condoms litter the SSSI. The Cerne Abbas giant touched inappropriately. Dorset Police are launching an investigation. Is there an equivalent of Orientalism when city dwellers exoticise the rural? I AM GUILTY. Cover me in tar. Black me up. Make me carry a burning barrel through your village. Cover me in burrs. Burn my effigy at your bonfire. TEACH ME YOUR WAYS. I'm willing to learn. Deep country. I can finally see the constellations as the sky clears. At dusk I see a barn owl silently flying across the flooded field. Reading as the sun falls into the sea. I will spare you a list of writers. I'm sure you can work it out. I won't insult your intelligence. That's about the only thing I won't insult. I've had a few at the village pub. Having a few more now we're back. Might even crack out that gear. The Rhosneigr night out. Hollyoaks in Anglesey. A snow machine. A fucking snow machine. To go with the Apres-ski theme. Men in fishing overalls dancing to Storm Queen drinking jugs of pink cocktails. The tiny village pub on the Llyn Peninsula. 18 of us. Most of us off our tits on coke. MDMA. Some of us on mushrooms. No one speaking English apart from us. 21st birthday in the function room. Banging out what sounds like gabber. In the bogs doing bumps. Pints and shots. Very accommodating. Back to the cottage to carry on. Cottages. Holiday homes. Good value if you go out of season. A base. Somewhere to cook. Hole up. Get away form it all. Decimating local communities. Pushing up prices. No wonder they used to burn them down in Wales. The way things are going it will probably start happening again. It's not tourism without a hefty degree of guilt and complicity in destruction. I am urban and English. I am scum. I love locally sourced food and drink. I will buy your chutneys and cheeses and beers. I will tell people about the wonderful little unspoiled beach and the amazingly shit but good local museum. The stunning walks. The wildlife. And then my friends will come. And their friends will come. And all will be lost. Have you been to the South Stack Cliffs bird reserve on Holy Island? Have you walked from Rye to Camber Castle? Have you walked the Broomway? What about the beach and derelict nightclub at Carlyon Bay? Have you heard seals sing on the sandbanks in the Dee Estuary off West Kirby? Have you been to the Eden Project? Reculver Castle? Taken the boat out from Poole to Brownsea Island to see Red Squirrels? Explored Canvey Island? Found fossils in Lyme Regis? The sand dunes at Climping? Walked from Deal to Sandwich? Don't miss the last train. Or it be cancelled. You might end up at Tonbridge at 2am waiting for a cab to take you back to London after being shunted around various stations in Kent for most of the night. A late train through the countryside. Only person in the carriage. You stop somewhere and a bunch of beered up locals get on. You are a target. If you can't handle the banter you're in trouble. Thank god I'm not a goth. Or black. Or in any way obviously different to them. I've got longish hair. But I'm wearing a shirt. A checked one. Like them. I say I'm on my way back to London. They all laugh. But it's good natured. Sort of. Still my palms sweat. Heart races. I'm allowed to read my book. They get off at the next station. I change at Ipswich. I read maps. Like novels. They are better than novels. The AA Great Britain Road Atlas. So many places I will never go. How do you find time to travel the world when there is so much in those pages? Essentially it will all be the same. I know this. I'm not bothered. It's the small things. The brown signs. FOLLOW THEM ALL. You will be disappointed but each disappointment will be unique. In it's own little way. Each boring museum. Each unwelcoming attraction. Each neglected Nature Reserve. I'm only half serious. As always. I've experienced such heart stopping beauty here. Beyond irony. Fuck irony. I don't leave London for a joke. The British seaside resort is amazing. Sad. Beautiful. The British countryside is awe inspiring. Wild. Managed. The interaction. Fascinating. The coast is unique. Variety of landscape. Wildlife. Treasure it. Care for it. I don't want to lose it. I want my hypothetical future children to experience at least this. At least. If not more. Rewild. Rewild your mind. It's good for you. It's good for us. Don't be afraid. It's worth it. If you live there please don't hate us. You need us. We need you. Don't lock us out. Trespassers should be welcomed with open arms. This belongs to us all.

KEEP BRITAIN INTERESTING. FOLLOW THE COUNTRYSIDE CODE. CLOSE ALL GATES. WATCH OUT FOR BULLS. WATCH OUT FOR TORIES. USE YOUR RIGHTS OF WAY. RESPECT THE LANDSCAPE. DON'T KEEP OFF OUR LAND. KEEP BRITAIN OPEN.