The best family breaks: five quirky stays for a holiday with the wow-factor

Whitepod, Monthey, Switzerland, Guest Review 9.3/10Set 1,1,313 feet above sea level, Whitepod offers an incredible experience all year round. Each pod comes with a pellet stove and an en-suite bathroom and has a floor-to-ceiling window facing the incredible views of the valley. There's an abundance of activities available to suit the whole family, from board games to puzzles to dog karting, paragliding, guided tours as well as relaxing massages. There are also 15.5 miles of breath taking signposted trails available all year round, to explore the local surroundings. Whitepod also offers a central chalet with a spa centre, sauna facilities and a bar, with a buffet breakfast and kid's meal options served daily. Located in the village of Les Cerniers, the resort is also just a 25-minute drive off the A9 motorway to Martigny for those planning to reach their family holiday destination by car.

Llamas Pyjamas, Brougham, Penrith, United Kingdom, Guest Review 8.9/10Escape to this unique South American style bed and breakfast in the heart of Cumbria. The Llamas Pyjamas is perfect for families who enjoy outdoor activities, visiting landmarks and who love llamas! Who wouldn't love the opportunity to trek side by side with a furry llama? If that isn't enough, the property overlooks the Lake District countryside and is walking distance from forests, castles and glorious mountains.

Oxford Riverside Glamping Swinford, Oxford Guest Review 9.3/10Go back to basics with a touch of luxury at Oxford Riverside glamping. Each bell tent is equipped with electric heating, charging points and an external fire pit, ideal for cosy nights toasting marshmallows with the family. Bed linen, cooking utensils, and hot water bottles are also provided, so no need to cram the car with 'camping essentials' ahead of your tip! Set in a beautiful countryside location, you're also close to attractions such as Blenheim Palace and Bicester Village, if you fancy a spot of culture or shopping. Other attractions such as Farmoor Reservoir is just a 22-minute walk away, which provides sailing and windsurfing – perfect for the adrenaline junkies of the family.

Cornhill Castle Biggar, Scotland Guest Review 9.2/10Cornhill Castle offers an incredible stay for families looking to venture up to Scotland this summer and enjoy the great outdoors. With local walking trails in close proximity, this property is also pet-friendly, so you can bring your pooch in tow! Additionally, Edinburgh is just 28 miles from the property, which makes fit perfect for a day visit to enjoy quality family time together, complemented with incredible city views and rich history. What's more, all rooms are beautifully decorated and many offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside and vast gardens complete with children's play area ensuring parents get plenty of opportunity to relax and unwind.

Arctic TreeHouse Hotel, Rovaniemi, Finland, Guest Review 8.9/10Located on site of SantaPark, Arctic TreeHouse Hotel provides a unique blend of luxury comfort, local Lappish traditions and modern Scandinavian design. In contrast to the meticulously designed accommodation and nest-like cosiness, the panoramic views from the windows provide impressive vistas of the forest and Arctic skies. Families can expect extraordinary experiences while immersed in one of nature's most magical settings.

Whether you're headed to sunny climes or the only pool you'll see this summer is in your local leisure centre, pack a pair of super cute Slipfree shoes in your swim bag. Made from a light, quick-drying and breathable fabric, they have a firm grip sole keeping you or your little one safe in slippery circumstances, and can be worn swimming too. Sizes range from an infant size two to a men's size 11.