Martinhal Sagres sits at the dramatic tip of Portugal's Alentejo coast, where the Atlantic feels truly wild. It's not a hotel that happens to accept children — it's a resort designed from the ground up for families, and the difference is immediately apparent.

The baby lounge is one of the best we've seen anywhere in Europe: a dedicated space with sterilisers, bottle warmers, a changing area, and staff who know infant routines. The kids club accepts children from six months, which is rare. The beach is sheltered and the pools are graded by depth.

This is the benchmark for family resorts. If your baby is over six months, Martinhal belongs at the top of your shortlist. If you're travelling with a newborn, look at Calcot first — Martinhal's childcare starts at six months.