Review: Child friendly villa in Costa del Sol, Spain

Accommodation

We loved the contact we had with Steve the owner before arrival. He sent us his location on Whattsapp so we could put it into google maps and had no issues getting to the apartment. The code for the main gate was provided and the keys were in a combination locked key box which he gave us the number of prior to arrival. When we walked in, the place was amazing – trendy, fashionable but toddler friendly.

Often when you book something, it doesn’t look the way it does in pictures but this place was as amazing in real life as it was online.

We were 3 families, each with a toddler (12 months, 18 months and a to be 2 year old) – We utilised the annex so had 3 x double bed rooms and there was a kids play room with bunk beds. The configuration worked perfectly for us.

The kitchen was fully stocked and even had a muffin tin so that I could make my daughter cupcakes on her birthday. While were talking about the kitchen, Steve gave us the details of an online grocery shop service and even unpacked the groceries for us. We felt that this was really going above and beyond. Even though we were provided with a welcome back (which included milk, bread, turkey slices, cheese, a bottle of wine and some snacks) we were able to order a meal for our arrival night as we would only get to the villa around 7pm as well as breakfast for the following day – this meant we didn’t need to get up and rush out to the shops. The little ones could just pretend for us!

In the bar/dining area there was a HUGE chest full to the brim of toys – our kids were in heaven, even though they are all different ages, there was something for all of them.

The enclosed garden was perfect for little ones. The only slight issue we had was that the astro turf got really hot in the late afternoons but this was because the temp was 35 + most days. The stairs to the outdoor dining area and play area had really clever wooden 'stair gates' keeping the little ones safe at all times.

All bedrooms including the annex have external blinds making the rooms totally dark at night, which is perfect when you don't want your little ones waking up when the sun does.

Play:

There definitely was not a shortage of toys or thinks to keep the little ones occupied. Not only was there the chest of toys for outdoors but the kids play room cupboard had even more toys in it. The upper garden has a climbing frame with slide and swing which would be great for slightly older kids.

Grounds:

To get to the pool you walked through the neighbours garden, a few mins later you arrived at a gated pool with loungers and shaded areas. There were also tennis courts on site but we did not use these (there were racquets in the villa that we could use if we wanted to).

Even though the development was quite big the pool area always seemed quiet, we never struggled to get a lounger and the shaded areas were great when the little ones needed a drinks/snack break.

Out and About

Steve had a comprehensive information file which had loads of ideas on things to do in and around Estepona. One of which was a child friendly beach - it sounded perfect, had shallow water with no waves and was described as perfect for kids. It really was just that...

We also visited the marina in both Estepona and Puerto Banus which the kids loved.
There is more than enough info in Steve's file to keep you occupied if you feel the need to get out and explore.

We were recommended an Italian restaurant in Estepona called El Rincon Toscano - it was lovely. Huge portions and excellent service. They only had 1 high chair (we did find this a bit of an issue with a few places so it may be worth taking something like the Tot Seat, as some meal times were a little awkward).
If the ladies are looking for a good spa, we booked massages at the Elba Estepona Gran Hotel & Thalasso Spa, this was a lovely morning out with wonderful pampering and lunch.

Don't worry dads, there's something for you in the area too. The Costa Del Sol is also known as the Costa Del Golf, there are loads of courses around, you'll be spoilt for choice.