The Good Family Hotel Guide 2. Hotel Aigua Blava, Costa Brava

Mood

Large and sprawling, but with the friendly family-run atmosphere of a much smaller establishment - which is why British families have been holing up here for generations. Beautifully situated on rosy rocks over an amazing blue sea

Beaches

Not for toddlers - they're pocket-sized, pebbly and tricky to get to. Excellent sandy versions, however, are just five minutes' drive away.

Activities

No kids club or karaoke, but occasional children's disco. Also table- tennis, tennis, large pool and gardens.

Refuelling

Good food and civilised dining-room without being formal, and not too many buffets. Full board only in the summer.

The resort

Quiet but stunning. The area is fantastic for family excursions and picnics.

Sample price

Spanish Harbour Holidays (0117-986 0777) offers one week full-board in a suite for two adults and two children under eight for pounds 1,665 excluding travel, pounds 1,865 to include ferry crossings for car and passengers, and pounds 2,490 for full-board accommodation, flight and car hire. These prices are for late July and August. Prices drop considerably outside the peak season.

Hotel Aigua Blava , Aigua Blava, Costa Brava, Spain (0034 972 622058)