Elite Traveler May-June 2016

INSPIRE FAMILY RESORTS

Soho Farmhouse CHIPPING NORTON, UK

When this 100-acre resort opened last year, the UK’s movers and shakers were instantly won over by its version of the family friendly British country idyll. Forty cabins are dotted along a meandering stream in the middle of an ”Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty“ known as the Cotswolds. There's an amazing Boathouse, Tom Aikens restaurants and a fun posh-crowd-meets-party-animal atmosphere. Its members-first policy serves to enhance its desirability. Standout service Private horseback riding lesson for pony-mad kids; mobile milk floats that can either carry guests around the resort or can bring a bartender to whip up cocktails for guests right at their cabin doors. Special amenities As well as Teeny Barn and Camp for kids, there are also four tennis courts, a five-a-side soccer pitch, winter ice rink, a softball field, stable yard, ”Crazy Farm Golf“ and a boating lake that is fantastic in summer. The Cowshed Spa and Josh Wood hair salon are always (justifiably) busy, so book ahead. Room to book Farm Cottage sleeps eight in four bedrooms. Contact +44 1608 691 000, sohofarmhouse.com Price From $970

Treetops Lodge and Estate ROTORUA, NEW ZEALAND

One of the most lauded retreats in the Antipodes perfectly combines NZ’s gung-ho outdoorsy vibe with unique experiences and the kind of indulgence five-star hotel fans expect. The location, near the North Island’s geothermal heartlands, makes for some geologically astonishing experiences (recent guests took a helicopter ride to land on a live volcano) and authentic Maori culture. Accommodation is in chunky stone villas that nestle into the landscape. Standout service Home schooling on request. Miles of forest adventure trails and excellent food foraging opportunities. Helicopter trips to a live volcano or private catamaran to find hidden hot pools. If you can imagine it, the helpful, mostly Maori, staff can make it happen. Special amenities Fly fishing on the hotels’ own lakes, spa specializing in indigenous treatments, golf course, indoor, outdoor and private dining options. Room to book The classically decorated Owners Retreat sleeps up to eight and has a spacious lounge, a full kitchen and expansive lawns.

Contact Peter White, general manager, +64 7 333 2066, gm@treetops.co.nz, treetops.co.nz/family-activities Price From $3,170