EasyJet Reveals Top Family Destination: Sardinia, the 'Caribbean of Europe'
Planning a May half-term getaway that combines family-friendly fun with stunning scenery and affordability? Look no further than Sardinia, an Italian island recently crowned a top pick in easyJet's Family Holiday Index. Often dubbed the 'Caribbean of Europe' for its pristine beaches and turquoise waters, Sardinia offers average May temperatures of 23C, making it an ideal escape without the long-haul travel.
Why Sardinia Tops the Charts for Family Holidays
EasyJet's Family Holiday Index evaluates destinations based on key factors like travel logistics, beach access, cost, and family activities. In the latest rankings, Spanish spots dominated six of the top ten positions, but Sardinia secured a notable sixth place, praised for its blend of natural beauty and practicality. The island scored highly thanks to its extensive beach selection, numerous family-oriented attractions, and straightforward accessibility from the UK.
Sardinia is served by two main airports: Cagliari Elmas Airport in the south, the largest hub, and Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport in the north, popular during summer months. EasyJet operates seasonal flights to Olbia from Bristol, Edinburgh, London-Gatwick, and London-Luton, while Ryanair and British Airways offer routes to Cagliari. With one-way flights starting from just £35.60 in May and journey times of two-and-a-half to three hours, it's a manageable trip for children.
Affordable Packages and Breathtaking Beaches
For those seeking a hassle-free holiday, easyJet Holidays provides package deals, such as a quadruple room in Borgo di Campagna departing May 8, priced at £340 per person. Use the code SPRINGSALE at checkout to save an additional £100. Once there, families can explore Spiaggia La Pelosa, renowned as one of the island's best beaches. Its soft white sand, gentle waves, and shallow turquoise waters make it perfect for paddling and splashing around.
To manage overcrowding, La Pelosa implements strict visitor controls from June 1 to October 1, requiring advance bookings and a €3.50 entry fee for those over 12. This ensures a peaceful experience without the usual beach crowds. Alternatively, the Costa Smeralda offers a 35-mile stretch of glamorous coastline in the north-east, dotted with upscale resorts, fine dining, and designer shops, often frequented by superyachts.
Adventure and Culture for All Ages
Beyond the beaches, Sardinia boasts rich historical sites and exciting activities. The La Maddalena Archipelago, a National Park comprising seven tiny islands accessible only by boat, offers full-day tours for swimming and snorkelling in the Mediterranean. History enthusiasts will appreciate Su Nuraxi di Barumini, a Bronze Age defensive complex, and Cagliari's Castello, home to ancient buildings and museums. The Roman Amphitheatre of Cagliari provides gripping tales of gladiator battles, sure to captivate school-aged children.
When it comes to dining, Sardinian cuisine is generally kid-friendly. Street food vendors serve Spianadina, traditional flatbreads filled with cheese and ham, while cosy restaurants offer wood-fired pizza and fresh pasta, catering even to picky eaters.
EasyJet's Full Family Holiday Index Rankings
The complete top ten list from easyJet's Family Holiday Index includes:
- Palma de Mallorca, Spain
- Algarve (Faro), Portugal
- Costa del Sol (Málaga), Spain
- Costa Blanca (Alicante), Spain
- Lanzarote, Spain
- Sardinia, Italy
- Crete, Greece
- Ibiza, Spain
- Barcelona Coast, Spain
- Dubrovnik Coast, Croatia
With its combination of affordability, accessibility, and diverse attractions, Sardinia stands out as a premier choice for families seeking a memorable May half-term holiday in Europe.
