Morocco

The Kasbah Tamadot in Morocco, owned by Richard Branson, normally has a minimum age of 12. But four times a year, children of all ages are welcomed and family-friendly versions of typical activities laid on. April is almost entirely sold out, but there is still space for the school holidays. Activities include mule-riding, mountain-biking and hot-air balloon rides.

Tamadot's main draw is its stunning location, on a high crest in the forested Atlas foothills, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, Berber villages and orchards. It is quiet, but only 50 minutes from the snake-charmers, smells and sights of Marrakesh. Five nights' B&B with The Best of Morocco in a superior room in July 2009 will cost about £1,020pp, including flights from Gatwick and private transfers.

Details: 0845 0264588; www.realmorocco.com

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Croatia

Explore's eight-day Croatian Active Adventure is based at a small family-run pension in the Cetina Gorge. You need to book early because space is limited to 16 and there's no other suitable accommodation in the area for a small group. Last year's trip sold out long before Christmas. The location offers a good mix of river and sea-based activities, with rafting, kayaking and canyoning along the Dalmatian Coast and in the gorge. The tour leaves on August 15 and 22, and costs £799pp (ages 12 plus) and £754pp (ages 8-11), including flights, all transport, seven nights' B&B, most other meals and the services of a tour leader. Explore also offers some teenage (minimum age 11) and solo parent departures within its Family Adventures programme, and these, too, are likely to fly off the shelf.

Details: 0844 4990901, www.explore.co.uk

Spain

Villas big enough for large groups are always quick to go. White Horses, which sleeps up to 14, is a 40-minute drive from Girona and has extensive grounds with views over Sa Riera and the smarter bit of the Costa Brava. It's ideal for people who want space - the main house has three double bedrooms as well as three guest suites, each with its own central courtyard entrance. The infinity pool looks over the bay of Sa Riera. PCI Holidays offers the villa for about £3,420 a week next August, based on six sharing. Extra guests cost £40pp a week.

Details: 0845 1301440, www.pci-holidays.com

Zambia

The two-bedroom Robin's House in South Luangwa in Zambia is ideal for a family of four on safari and sells out much faster than larger properties. A week costs £3,106pp on full board with Expert Africa, based on a family of four. This includes all flights and transfers, and private guiding. Families travel in a private vehicle, and can plan their daily itinerary the night before with their guide.

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