27 EXTRAVAGANT IDEAS FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE FAMILY REUNION

Summer is a great time for family reunions. And there are so many destinations in the UK and Europe that you don’t have to go far to spend quality time with the ones you care about. We know that time with family is priceless and valuable, and we believe in the making the most of it; because time isn’t the sort of luxury that money can buy. But extravagance is something you can indulge in, and sometimes it’s just worth it to treat the whole family to something special. Whether it’s a big celebration or just a reunion with all your loved ones, here are 27 truly extravagant ideas for a family reunion.

1. Rent a Castle in Ireland

Is there anything more indulgent than renting a castle and living like royalty? Here at Loyd & Townsend Rose, castles is what we specialize in and one of our favorite destinations has to be Ireland. With untouched natural beauty, rugged coastlines and fairy-tale castle backdrops, Ireland is one of the most magical, idyllic destinations for a family reunion. This 18^th Century castle, Glin Castle, in County Limerick is the perfect example for big celebrations.

2. Beachfront Break in Cornwall

If you want to spoil yourself and the family, a beach break in the UK could be the vacation you need to make some new memories together. Towns such as Truro, St. Ives, Padstow and Land’s End are popular destinations for families and you’ll find some beautiful beachfront villas to cater for all group sizes.

3. Wine Tasting in Bordeaux

When it comes to sophisticated adults only, wine tasting trips make for such a great family reunion idea. There’s no better way of relaxing and celebrating big family birthdays or events than sharing top tipple in a beautiful location. We particularly love Château Margaux Wine Estate, Château de Pitray and Château Pape-Clément with the oldest planted vineyard in the area.

4. Golfing in Scotland

There are countless golf courses in Scotland, making it the perfect destination in the UK for a family golfing vacation and because there’s so much to do in Scotland (such as hiking and walking, cycling, shopping, city tours, lakes and beaches), the whole family will find something to stay entertained on a reunion. One of the best golf courses is St Andrews and we feature Kemback House, a grand family-sized 15^th Century mansion located just 6 short miles from the course.

5. Rent a Castle in Scotland   

If you have a large family, then renting a castle is the perfect thing to do. Glenapp Castle in Scotland is a magical place to stay and make memories that will last a lifetime. All generations will enjoy their time here, and the 36 acres of land will provide plenty of opportunity for adventures. Please do get in touch if you’d like to discuss having your family reunion in the magnificent Glenapp Castle.

6. Go Sailing in the Isle of Wight

If you’re planning a super extravagant birthday or a fancy summer meet-up with your nearest and dearest, treat everyone to a sailing experience in the Isle of Wight. This is the UK’s home of yachting and although the idea of yacht life may seem much more glamorous in the Mediterranean sun, sailing is such a fun activity and you’ll have a fantastic time no matter the weather. Newcomers are welcome too and clubs such as Gurnard Sailing Club or Yarmouth Sailing Club are great places to learn.

7. Stay in a Loire Valley Chateau

The Loire Valley region in France is best known for its spectacular countryside, its famous wines and of course its incredible fairy-tale chateaux. Many travelers come here to tour the castles with wine tasting sessions in between…..but imagine staying in your very own French storybook chateau! Our unbelievable Chateau de la Barre, in the Loire Valley, can be booked as a boutique hotel or can be hired exclusively if you’re organizing a big family event or wedding, and winos will be pleased to know that the castle’s wine cellar stocks more than 170 fine French wines. It really doesn’t get any more upscale than this!

8. Countryside Break in Tuscany

For the most divine views, the lushest greenery, the finest wines and the most rustic, authentic Italian cooking, a family reunion in the Italian region of Tuscany is one of the very best family reunion ideas. Foodies and wine connoisseurs will not be disappointed and you’ll find a huge choice of spacious villas complete with swimming pool and veranda, with plenty of room for large groups.

9. Rent a Country Manor in the Cotswolds

The Cotswolds is a wonderful destination for a vacation for outdoorsy families, especially if you have young children; the flat terrain across the region makes it easy for hikes, nature trails and cycling at any age and there’s plenty to do at the incredible Cotswold Waterpark lakes. Rent Cornwell Manor, a grand country manor with a large dining room, and you can organize a big old family knees-up. We can even help you arrange for a private chef or caterer if you want to impress guests with a 3 course dinner.

10. Scuba Diving in Isles of Scilly

For an underwater adventure and a truly unique family reunion idea, take the whole clan to the incredible Isles of Scilly, an archipelago off the tip of the Cornish Peninsula. You can explore the protected waters surrounding the islands and you can spot the rich and colorful array of marine life. The perfect scuba trip without having to leave Great Britain and perfect for adventurous families who love the water.

11. Bath and Stonehenge Tour

Bath and Stonehenge is a superb trip for all ages; not only is the mind-blowing Stonehenge site one of the medieval wonders of the world but the city of Bath offers museums, galleries, historical sites and attractions for just about everyone. You won’t be stuck for choice when it comes to accommodation either and if you’re looking for an exclusive manor house, mansion or stately home for a special celebration, we can help with our luxury properties.

12. Whiskey Tour in Scotland

Whiskey lovers will find so much choice in Scotland when it comes to tours, tasting and trails. The entire country is whiskey mad and connoisseurs will not be disappointed – they only drink the good stuff here! Family reunions will get off to a bang if you’re looking for a good time. Be sure to check out the Malt Whiskey Trail, Edinburgh’s Scotch Whiskey Experience, the Glenfiddich Distillery, the Royal Lochnagar Distillery, the Ben Nevis Distillery or the 4 day “Queen of the Isles” Islay Whiskey Tour.

13. Family Picnic at Brownsea Island

National Picnic Week takes place every June but don’t worry if you’ve missed it. Because the summer still isn’t over! Brownsea Island in Dorset has been named one of “Britain’s best picnic spots” by The Telegraph so it’s the perfect place to bring everyone together.

14. Exquisite Garden Properties

For garden and landscaping lovers, we have a number of special properties which are placed at close distance to garden properties such as Drummond Gardens, Floors Castle and Kincardine Castle. Our featured homes also boast their own beautiful gardens and private acres, so there’s plenty of outdoor space to explore.  Staying at one of our private homes and enjoying the peace and tranquility of the gardens and private estates is one of the best family gathering ideas.

15. Chalet in the French Alps

We have some divine luxury chalets in the French Alps and whether you’re a seasoned skier or a total novice who just likes to dabble on the piste, our chalets are the coziest and most beautifully decorated retreats for families in need of some quality time together. Speak to us today and let us help you find the perfect ski chalet with a roaring log fire, outdoor hot tub, sauna room, massage room or a Turkish bath, and enjoy one of these great family reunion ideas.

16. Boutique Stay in Notting Hill  

Notting Hill is a truly unique neighborhood, one that has changed incredibly over the last 40 years and now provides an affluent, multi-cultural hybrid that has everything from street festivals and jerk chicken to the famous vintage stalls of Portobello and countless restaurants and bars. Spend a few nights in a boutique hotel / apartment and spend a long weekend enjoying the neighborhood with the ones you love.

17. Family Adventure in Oban

Oban is affordably quirky yet a little bit indulgent all at the same time, so if you want to strike a balance that can appeal to a wide audience, you’ve found it with this west coast gem. One minute you could be enjoying cheap fish and chips at the seaside and the next you could be fine dining at Isle of Eriska, Oban’s nearest Michelin Star establishment (just 10 minutes by car).

18. Luxury Treehouse in Sherwood Forest

If you want something that’s a little bit unusual but still utterly luxurious, hire a treehouse with your own hot tub and unspoiled forest views. With nothing else around but incredible nature, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to catch up with the people you haven’t seen in years. Sherwood Forest makes such a beautiful setting but luxury treehouses are also available to hire in Deerpark in Cornwall, Blackwood Forest in Hampshire and Forest of Dean in Gloucestershire.

19. Eco Glamping in Wales

Camping doesn’t have to mean going without your creature comforts. Glamping is a much more glamorous way to camp and Wales is one of the most popular destinations for glamping fans. Stay in a special eco-pod, a tipi or yurt eco retreat, or a sustainable geodesic dome and spend your time telling stories around the campfire. A great family reunion trip idea for families with children.

20. Take the Prosecco Trail in Italy

If you’ve got something to toast to, bring the whole family together for a fun tour of the Prosecco Trail in Italy. This famous Prosecco road from Valdobbiadene at the bottom of the Dolomites to Congeliano in the Veneto region is ideal for a road trip. Plus you’ve also got Venice at easy distance which is such a spectacular finale after a few days of driving.

21. Yachting in the French Riviera

It really doesn’t get any more glam than the Cote D’azur. If you’re looking for the ultimate wow factor, charter a yacht in the French Riviera and spend quality time on board with your loved ones whilst exploring the sights of Nice, St. Tropez and Cannes.

22. Penthouse Apartment in Barcelona

Barcelona is another fantastic destination for families who need culture and entertainment to stimulate all the different age groups. Hire a penthouse apartment in the elegant Eixample district or Las Ramblas and you’ll be ideally located for shopping, sightseeing, street food and museums.

23. Oyster Tasting in Croatia

Is there anything more lavish than oysters and champagne? If you want to plan an extravagant family bash abroad, Croatia is the perfect place. Stay in Dubrovnik and spend your time catching up with loved ones at the gorgeous beaches and eating great food in the underground ‘Konoba’ restaurants, then head to the village of Ston on the Peljesac Peninsula to visit the oyster farm and to taste the freshest oysters overlooking the harbor.

24. Cruise the Greek Islands

With more than 6,000 islands, Greece is one of the best European destinations for a luxury cruise. Major ports for many cruise liners include the spectacular Santorini, Corfu, Mykonos and Chania, plus with so much to do on board the ship, the whole family will be entertained.

25. Spa Weekend in Harrogate

A family weekend in Harrogate is a great way to explore the North of England. Spend some time at the famous spa baths, go shopping along the quaint high street and find beautiful boutiques, and don’t forget to pop into Betty’s for afternoon tea.

26. Rent a Log Cabin in Devon

They don’t call it the “English Riviera” for nothing! When the weather’s on our side, you really don’t have to go as far as the Cote D’azur for sandy beaches and turquoise waters. A log cabin break in Devon’s Torquay could set you right on the harbor and the views of yachts lining the waterfront will make you feel like you’re a million miles away from Britain.

27. Self Catering with Private Chef

If you’re really looking for a way to treat the whole family to something special, why not speak to our team about hiring a private chef to cater for your entire stay? We only work with the best chefs who use organic and locally sourced ingredients and they will curate bespoke menus to suit the tastes and preferences of you and your guests. No matter what accommodation you’re interested in, we can find a chef to come to you and make your reunion extra special.

Please contact Andrew on Andrew@ltrcastles.com or + 44 (0) 1835 824642 to find out more about these ideas for family reunion or to come up with some more.