Georgie Crawshaw and her three year old son enjoy a Turkish holiday packed full of adventures, sea, sun and great food
I’m the first to admit that I struggle to sit still on holiday, let alone lie on a sun-lounger. So I jumped at the chance to review one of Mark Warner’s active resorts with my three-year-old.
With five beach clubs spread across Greece and Turkey, we’re spoilt for choice, especially as flights, transfers and accommodation are all included in the price, as well as a whole range of activities from water sports to tennis lessons, and kids club for ages 2 to 17! I can’t grab my passport fast enough.
Phokaia, on the Turkish Riviera, is one of Mark Warner’s most popular resorts. I have to say, it deserves every one of its five stars – and more. Set amongst lush, spacious gardens, with its own private bay and sandy beach (not to mention an on-site spa and the friendliest staff ever), we’re already in holiday heaven!
The little man doesn’t know which secret pathway or swimming pool to explore next (there’s four in total, including a 50m freshwater option and a shallow one with clever canopy cover for toddlers). And don’t get me started on all the chill-out areas and quirky nooks and crannies – from deck chairs to hammocks, giant cushions to cabanas. If only I had time to find a spot in the shade, or to soak up some rays with my book…
But it’s straight to the waterfront where the warm Aegean Sea and gentle morning breeze is the perfect setting to share my love of the sea with my mini-me. Before I know it, he’s stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and first mate to my skipper on one of the resort’s fleet of dinghies. I can’t wait to book him on to one of the RYA sailing courses when he’s old enough.
He’s also keen to check out the pickleball courts and slightly mesmerised by the aerial yoga kit in the fitness pavilion (which boasts an impressive weekly timetable – from aqua fit and circuits to sunset stretch).
Luckily, it’s easy to work up an appetite here – otherwise my waistline would be seriously suffering. Our trip includes five days full board, and two days half (breakfast and lunch), and the food is nothing short of incredible. Meals are buffet style and served in Dionisos Restaurant – think lots of delicious, locally sourced ingredients and a variety of hot and cold choices.
From the breakfast omelette station to the freshly grilled specials, desserts galore and salads in all shapes and sizes, there’s Turkish and international cuisine aplenty – and even a daily high tea at the Jetty Bar just for kids, featuring healthy snacks and ice-creams almost as big as their heads!
Speaking of the small human, I’ve pre-booked him into the afternoon mini club sessions. The question is, do I head out on a guided bike tour or join the other windsurfers for a blast around the bay? Either way, I know my wee man is having the time of his life with a jam-packed programme of arts and crafts, fun and games – both on and off the water.
In addition to the half-day cover, evening childcare is also part of the package – so parents can sneak off and enjoy a romantic meal at the beachfront Agave Restaurant or a quiet drink at one of the resort’s bars (I highly recommend a sandy-toes sundowner at Tiki). Essentially a supervised sleepover, he can’t say goodbye to me fast enough.
While he settles down to watch a movie with his new friends (before catching some z’s in his snuggle sack) I’m off to enjoy some of the after-dark entertainment; from quiz nights to tipsy tennis, live music to Turkish themed cabarets – the fire breathing show is a must!
To be honest, after all that fresh air and endorphins, it’s not long before I’m ready for bed too. Time to pick up my little sleepyhead and wander back to our villa for an early night. Whatever room type you opt for, they’re all as modern and comfortable as you’d expect, and it’s an absolute treat to come back to fresh towels, pristine sheets and air-conditioning!
Our final verdict? This is the kind of holiday dreams are made of. In fact, I can only find one thing to complain about – a week just isn’t long enough. I hear Mark Warner do family friendly ski trips too though. Where do I sign?
For more information on Mark Warner resorts, or to book your summer beach escape, visit www.markwarner.co.uk. Full day childcare is available for a small supplement.
Main image: ACTIVE SHOTS PHOKAIA https://www.instagram.com/activeshotsphokaia?igsh=MXNnOGEzeTJ2ajJqaQ%3D%3D
