Does this holiday exist?

[mamaduckbone]

2 older teen ds's who eat like horses and would prefer AI (in some ways so would I, but only because it takes the stress out of thinking about where the next meal is coming from and helps with budgeting) A pool is essential, but none of us are bothered about evening entertainment.

A Dh who is an anxious traveller and likes the security of a package deal where everything is sorted by the tour operator. Also won't drive abroad.

Me - desperate for somewhere that we can get out of the resort and see some of the local area, escape the AI for an occasional meal, so ideally within walking distance of a town that isn't just a tourist resort.

Looking at Greece, but open minded to other options.

I thought I had it sorted with an apartment hotel in Agios Nikolaos but having looked a bit more closely it's not quite hitting the spot, although the town looks gorgeous and I really want to go to Spinalonga.

Please help! I'm going round in circles.
Budget around 4k for a week in mid July.

It's
Not a holiday village anymore and it's a bit of a trek into town. Stunning beach though.

Ah, sorry, I didn't realise that was the case - it was still a Holiday Village when I was there in Summer'23 and was on the list as one only two months ago when I was researching next years 'Holiday Village' holiday.
Would defo be a long hike if walking all the way to San Antonio, but the boat across is a stones throw away and is a short, pleasant trip.
Lots of other great ideas on this thread

DS 19 and I stayed here in May. You can wander to coves or there is a bus stop nearby if it's too hot to walk uphill into the old town. It's half board but the food was great and I stopped counting how many times DS went up. Eating out was a very similar price to UK (outside London) and the people were lovely.
www.jet2holidays.com/beach/croatia/dubrovnik-coast/dubrovnik-lapad/hotel-lapad?duration=7&airport=3&date=12-07-2025&occupancy=r2c_r2c&gtmsearchtype=Hotel+Search

Are there options in Rethymno Crete? The town is lovely and easy to walk to from the resort areas.

Would you consider Mexico if just for a week? We stayed in Riu Tequila (!!) in Playa del Carmen. Was amazing! Food excellent and 2 other hotels to go to so lots of choice with everything. Town only 5 minutes in taxi or 25 minute walk - brilliant shopping, restaurants and beach. We had 3 teens with us and they loved it.

Meant to add, we are die hard Greece fans but this was a really nice change!

Did you also think OP said the teens like horses 😂

Your perfect holiday definitely exists, and Greece is a great choice! Have you looked at places like Corfu or Crete? Resorts like Rethymno in Crete offer AI options with pools and are within walking distance of charming towns and authentic restaurants. For a blend of AI convenience and local exploration, look for smaller, boutique-style resorts that don’t feel overly “touristy.” Alternatively, places like Parga on the mainland or Skiathos might hit the spot—beautiful towns, great food, and the option to explore without a car.

Rethymno looks like a good bet, thanks @Wherehas2023gone. We've been to Crete before but not that area. My heart is still a little bit set on Greece. Mixed responses to Kos, which was our other possibility.

I don't think Mexico will be in our budget even for only a week @ilovelamp2

And yes...I politely declined to comment on the earlier horse reply! They aren't that keen on horses, tbh - it was definitely only a reference to their eating habits.

Bali?

For £4k?? I should wish...

We stayed at Althea village, on the edge of Chania. A small all inclusive hotel, that's part of the tui suneo range. Bus or taxi into Chania, which is beautiful and picturesque. Lovely hotel, there is basic entertainment but it's low key. Food was good too.

Cyprus - Paphos

Thank you so much @catchingzzzeds and @wellingtonsandwaffles - we've booked Rocha Brava - the AI was the thing that had to give (which suits Dh and I, and the teens aren't paying!!)
The area looks so beautiful and I've never been to Portugal - super excited!

I hope you all have a wonderful time!

I think Kos Town would work for you. There are various all inclusives within a couple of miles, and it's where the action is.

Just popping back on here to say Rocha Brava was fantastic so thanks to those who recommended!!

Miramare hotel resort and spa in Agios Nikolaos would do you

They’ve just come back! Bit late for recommendations!

I realised! Didn't look at the date of original post.
Oops

Haha sorry to be confusing - always looking for new recommendations for next year!

@mamaduckbone I’m so pleased you enjoyed it!