When planning a vacation with young children, parents typically put the needs of the kids first. But it doesn't have to be that way.
In an attempt to draw more family travelers, many hotels and resorts across the U.S. and Canada now offer activities for every member of the family: while the kids are playing, Dad can golf while Mom enjoys a facial. Later, parents can enjoy a relaxing, romantic dinner without interruption. Don't worry, your kids will be so busy listening to stories, playing parachute games and meeting new friends, they'll hardly miss you.
At the Montecito-Sequoia Lodge in Sequoia National Park, a natural setting awaits you and your children with many outdoor activities to enjoy together and on your own.
MONTECITO-SEQUOIA LODGE
LOS ALTOS, CALIFORNIAThis place feels like summer camp--you can canoe, fish, hike, ride horseback and spend nights around a campfire singing along to familiar tunes. The cabins are rustic and there are no telephones, televisions or radios, making civilization feel deliciously far away. There are, however, bathhouses nearby.
What's there for you: Activities are designed to strike a balance between time alone and time with your kids.
What's there for kids: The lodge caters to children starting at age two. Its High Sierra Vacation Camp is grouped into Guppies (6 to 23 months with a parent), Minnows (two-year-olds), Tadpoles (three- to four-year-olds), Chipmunks (five- to six-year-olds), Marmots (seven- to eight-year-olds), Bobcats (nine-ten-year-olds), Cougars (10- to 12-year-olds) and Bears (13- to 18-year-olds). Activities include swimming, pony rides, fishing, kiddie olympics, story time and nature hikes, all at no extra cost. Water skiing, mountain biking and horse back riding are at an additional cost.
Seasonality: Open year-round, but the High Sierra Vacation Camp is only available during the summer.
Ratio of caregivers to children: Two-to-one for two- and three-year-olds; two-to-three for four years old and higher.
Worth special mention: Family Time is held each night before dinner in the Sports Arena, with horseshoes and table tennis. Counselors help coordinate this activity period so they're on hand to help with the children. Baby-sitting for children under age three can be arranged and there's a special play area for the infant to two-year-old set.
For more information: Visit Montecito-Sequoia Lodge's Web site or call 800-227-9900.
For more information on resorts in general, click on the following links: questions to ask before booking and tips on child safety.
Jeanne Muchnick lives in Larchmont, New York, with her two daughters.
Please keep in mind that phone numbers, addresses, and prices are subject to change. Updated August 2005.
