5 adults-only breaks to escape the school holidays

1. SOL House Ibiza mixed by Ibiza Rocks

Beat the family crowds at this hedonistic hotel, where armbands are out and poolside parties are very much in. This place is run by Ibiza Rocks, which means it’s perfectly suited to those looking to enjoy Ibiza’s lively side. Location-wise, it’s bagged a shoreside spot right on the fringes of San Antonio Bay, so it looks out onto a sweeping arch of sea and sand. Plus, you’re less than a 10-minute cab ride from San Antonio’s superclubs and their Balearic beats.

The convenient location is a mere bonus, here. The beauty of this place is that the party comes to you. Head up to rooftop bar, Rooftop Nine, in the evenings for sunset watching and cocktail sinking. There are DJ sets every night – and Café Del Mar’s favourite crate digger, Jose Padilla, spins his trademark brand of chill-out house once a week.

2. Sensatori Resort Punta Cana

If you want some grown-up time, but nothing less than five-star luxury will do, our Sensatori collection is the answer. Okay, so these hotels aren’t strictly kid-free, but don’t worry – their adults-only areas ensure you can enjoy a distraction-free daiquiri or two. And, if you’re plumping for Sensatori, you might as well do it properly, right? That’s where our brand-new Sensatori Resort Punta Cana comes in. Having only just flung open its doors, it’s the newest hotel in our flagship collection, and it’s set to be a real favourite.

This sleepy Dominican Republic beach retreat’s got looks and location on its side. It’s set on Uvero Alto Beach which means see-through Caribbean seas and butter-soft sands couldn’t be closer. Inside, everything still has that fresh-out-the-wrapper feel, and, design-wise, everywhere’s up-to-the-minute chic. Push the boat out with an Adults Area Luxury Swim-up room, and you’ll get a host of plush premium benefits, from a pillow and an aromatherapy menu, to a personal concierge and pool and beach butler service.

Sensa-who?!

First, let’s go back to the start with a bit of Sensatori background. Our most lavish collection’s name is a blend of ‘sense’ and ‘satori’, a Japanese Buddhist term for awakening. So, in a nutshell, everything is designed to appeal to your senses – from the softness of the towels and the sweet-smelling spa, to the gourmet cuisine plated up in our restaurants.

3. Sensimar Oceanis Beach & Spa Resort

Okay, so you want a completely kid-free escape? We hear ya. Our Sensimar collection’s where it’s at, and Kos’ Oceanis Beach is a cracker. Pulled up on a pebbly beach, with stunning Aegean Sea views, this place was designed with couples in mind. Bedrooms are decorated in warm tones, with soft lighting helping to create an intimate mood.

De-stressing’s a doddle here, too. Hammocks and Bali daybeds are scattered around the manicured gardens, and there’s a dedicated quiet pool if you’re looking to turn the decibels down. Dining-wise, think candle-lit à la carte dinners, with a well-thought-out wine list complementing delicately-constructed dishes like juicy sirloin steaks cooked to order, and net-fresh salmon. Even the spa is set up to bring you and your partner together, with a dedicated range of couples’ treatments.

4. Hotel Falesia

The Algarve’s Hotel Falesia – impossible to leave out of any adult-focused hotel round-up worth its salt. This Portuguese gem’s part of our adults-exclusive Gold collection, and is currently ranked second of Albufeira’s 161 hotels on TripAdvisor. It’s recently been refurbished, so it’s looking super fresh inside, while, outside, lush tropical gardens ensconce it. Entertainment-wise, things are aimed at a more mature audience, with lawn games and aerobics during the day, while the much-loved Thomson Gold entertainment team take to the stage later on, with comedy routines, quizzes and cover bands belting out Sixties classics.

The Hotel Falesia’s set in a prime spot in Acoteias, a relatively secluded spot in comparison to the busier Albufeira. It’s a fairly low-key traditional village, with a scattering of intimate shops, bars and restaurants. True to form for the Algarve, there are a handful of top golf courses nearby should you wish to aim for the fairways. In fact, you need only hop next door for the nine-hole Pine Cliffs course.

5. Sensimar Medina Gardens

Cultured couples need look no further than the Sensimar Medina Gardens. Set in the heart of Marrakech, right on the doorstep of Jemaa el-Fna square, this hotel allows you to effortlessly juggle poolside and souk-side. If you’re keen to sample traditional Morocco, but aren’t ready to let go of your creature comforts, this place is perfect. In terms of décor, there’s a contemporary feel, though Arabic touches remain throughout – with exposed brick walls adorned with mosaics, and arched ceilings with intricate detailing. Outside, you’re free to relax around a large curvy pool, without screaming little ones, while a spa offers an extensive menu of massages and beauty treatments.

But why Marrakech? This North African city stirs the senses in so many ways – a destination for those who look to throw themselves into new experiences at every turn. Moroccan food is always rewarding, with subtle spicing and huge depth of flavour a signature of most dishes, from bubbling lamb tagines served up at roadside cafes, to aromatic fish stews. Nature-wise, the snow-capped Atlas Mountains rub shoulders with arid deserts, while Ourika Valley, with its waterfalls, gorges and geckos, is well worth a visit. Then there’s the long list of fascinating sights to keep you busy, from the grandeur of El Bahia Palace, to the 16th-century Saadian Tombs.

Feeling inspired?

Book your adult-focused holiday now.

Or, find out why Cyprus is the best destination for couples.

Author: Chris Rolinson