Planning a large group break

Planning a large group break

Looking for a special property for a very large party - perhaps for a family anniversary or celebratory trip, several families holidaying together or for a sophisticated hen break - can be a challenge. Firstly as organiser, trying to ascertain dates, availability and requirements of several people for the same week or weekend, requires a certain amount of patience, even if, or especially if (!) you are dealing with members of your extended family. Choosing the right property, taking into consideration the needs of all the party and what is available can become quite a responsibility, especially if you choose unwisely! Discussing your plans and ideas for the break with those marketing the property, planning ahead and pre-booking as much as possible in advance will mean you can enjoy the experience as much as everyone else!

When choosing a property to accommodate a larger party, it is vital to consider, prior to booking, the make-up of the group, the number of bedrooms and bathrooms available and more specifically, who will be sleeping where. Agreeing bedrooms (and beds) in advance avoids arguments at bedtime, particularly if some bedrooms are superior to others or if only one offers an en-suite bathroom! A property such as the luxurious The Old Vicarage, near Salcombe, certainly solves this problem; with eight equally lovely luxury bedrooms and nine bathrooms, this fabulous property sleeps up to 22, with plenty of rooms allowing individual space to escape if being in a big party occasionally gets too much!

Whilst a large country house to accommodate the entire party under one roof is perfect for certain occasions, it does not suit all, particularly those who would prefer more privacy and individual space, so booking several smaller properties close to each other may be more suitable. Ensuring that one of the properties selected has a suitable space to gather together as a larger group is recommended and avoids the difficulties of seating more than the appropriate number around a dining table for a special meal. Holiday complexes are often ideal for larger party breaks, usually offering properties of all different sizes, providing the most flexibility for the organiser planning a large group break. Hillfield Cottages & Country House near Dartmouth, for example, offers 28 luxury properties sleeping from 2 -12, grouped together in combinations that make group bookings very attractive and feasible.

Planning ahead is the key to a successful break whatever the party size, but is even more relevant when bringing together a large number of people. Thinking about food, particularly for arrival night is very important and avoids disappointment and a lot of hungry people! Discuss your requirements at the time of booking your property –many local companies now offer a delivery service to holiday homes, which avoids the need for a ‘big shop’ before travelling or wasting precious time out of your break in the local supermarket. In South Devon, for example, award-winning local company Riverford Organics have invested in an additional van for delivering organic vegetable, fruit and meat boxes to holiday homes for arrival day.

The owners of Broad Downs Barn, a brand new barn conversion sleeping 12 near Salcombe, have certainly considered those organising holidays for the larger group, in the planning and preparation of this newly completed holiday home. A complete range of additional services are offered to those staying at this luxury property, designed to take away as much of the pre-holiday hassle as possible, to allow busy people to ‘hit the ground running’ when they start their holiday and so enjoy every available minute. Services such as Advance Restaurant Booking, Drop off/Collection Service to Salcombe and local restaurants, Private Catering for Evening Meals, Babysitting and even a Personal Trainer can be pre-arranged for you, thus minimising the organisational stress often involved when planning a holiday for a larger group or family party.

With some group breaks planned to coincide with a special anniversary or celebration, much of the pre-break planning tends to be focussed on organising a particular meal for the special day. Most people would not expect there to be a complete itinerary for the rest of the break, but it is helpful to do some research, to plan ahead and have suggestions for activities and entertainment suitable for the party. Choosing a property or complex with a pool, a games room, large grounds or a children’s play area, will keep younger visitors happy. Increasingly the demand is for properties with access to spa and leisure facilities, for a spot of pampering during the break. Booking properties at Dart Marina, the exclusive award-winning development on the waterfront in Dartmouth, for example, with privileged access to the luxury Dart Marina Health Spa, with indoor pool, steam room, Jacuzzi, gym and Elemis treatment rooms, would certainly satisfy those looking for relaxation as part of their break whilst others choose properties with private hot tubs for 8 people as their perfect way of relaxing as a group.

By booking a large house, or by accommodating your larger party in several smaller properties grouped together, you can create the ideal break to suit the needs and make-up of your particular group. But remember, by planning ahead, thinking of activities for all age groups involved and for all types of weather, working out who will be sleeping where and considering catering arrangements for the duration of the stay, you will be able to enjoy the whole experience too!

To find out more about individual large properties sleeping from 8-22 or properties grouped together sleeping 2-12 each, contact Coast & Country Cottages’ locally based teams in Salcombe (01548) 843773 or Dartmouth (01803) 839600. Or visit www.coastandcountry.co.uk for availability, special offers and to BOOK ONLINE.