Pacuare Lodge

Planning a trip in April opens up a world of possibilities. For families making the most of the spring holidays, there’s no shortage of kid-friendly destinations, whether your ideal break centres on hands-on activities, outdoor adventure, or cultural discovery. Europe enjoys cooler climes at this time of year, making it perfect for a city escape, and our Gurus particularly recommend soaking up the vibrant colours of Amsterdam in spring. Across the Atlantic, April is also an excellent time to explore North America, with Washington DC's iconic sights and seasonal charm at their best. For travellers drawn to the great outdoors, Yosemite National Park offers refreshingly mild temperatures ideal for hiking, along with fewer crowds than the peak summer months. And for those craving a dose of spring sunshine, our Gurus suggest looking to Costa Rica or the Maldives for warmth, relaxation, and unforgettable scenery.

The Netherlands (Amsterdam)

Park Hotel Centraal

April is when Amsterdam bursts into colour with its tulip season in full flower. It's also appealing for its mild climate (ideal for sightseeing) and the chance to experience major events such as King's Day (April 27th). Famously popular for getting around on a bike (although equally enjoyable on foot), our Gurus recommend choosing a central property to enjoy easy access to the city's best attractions. We've chosen a selection of our top picks in the city, including a B&B with self-catering apartments and three stylish central properties which are bound to please design aficionados.

  • Hotel V Frederiksplein is a modern B&B in the heart of Amsterdam, with stylish rooms and a handful of self-catering apartments. Interiors mix retro furniture with chic modern design pieces. Apartments, complete with kitchenettes, are perfect for small groups and families. A convenient and well-priced base in the city centre.
  • Hotel Van de Vijsel is a beautifully crafted hotel offering cool contemporary aesthetics. Designed in and out with wood, whilst at the same time mixing traditional and modern designs. Rooms are simple with a Scandi-chic feel (plenty of wood again and simple crisp white linen). Also set in the heart of the city, pick this one for the sleek design and easy access to the city's main sights.
  • Park Centraal Hotel is a stylish contemporary hotel, well located between Leidseplein and Vondelpark. Spacious rooms and suites are decorated in cool steely hues and feature modern artworks. Home to MOMO Restaurant, excellent Asian fusion cuisine is guaranteed, plus there's a chic cocktail bar.
  • The Highlander Hotel is set in a classy redbrick townhouse in the lively heart of the historic centre. A mishmash of patterns and designs gives the interiors a fun, creative vibe — think tartan walls and vibrant pops of colour. There's a stylish bar plus lots to do on the doorstep. Another cool city stay. 

USA (Yosemite National Park)

AutoCamp Yosemite

For fewer crowds, blooming wildflowers in the valleys and foothills, and stunning, powerful waterfalls, April makes for a great time to visit California's Yosemite National Park. While access to the high country roads is still usually closed at this time of year due to snowfall, there's plenty to explore in the valleys. Our pick of the best hotels near Yosemite National Park includes two cosy lodges (perfect for cool evenings), a historical B&B, and a very chic campsite.

  • Hotel Charlotte is a historical B&B that boasts a location at the gateway to Yosemite, perfect for nature ramblings and family activities. Expect comfortable and cosy rooms, French cuisine, and warm service. A good low-key option.
  • Evergreen Lodge has run for nearly a century and, in that time, has perfected the outdoor escape. Cosy lodges have roaring fires, plenty of wood and plaid fabrics. However, the bathrooms are reassuringly modern. Outside, there are activities galore, from hiking trails to a saltwater pool. Back to nature perfection.
  • Rush Creek Lodge is a good pick for its superb facilities and location just outside the Park. Interiors are simple and modern, the best have sitting areas and wood-burning stoves. The property centres around a saltwater pool (there is an adult-only one too). With a spa and games room, this is a perfect family stay. 
  • AutoCamp Yosemite offers all the comforts of a luxury hotel in the form of a campsite. A collection of tents, Airstream trailers and cabins just a short drive from the entrance to Yosemite. Pick a trailer for spa-like bathrooms and mini kitchens. Complete with a pool and outdoor firepits. Camping perfection.

USA (Washington DC)

Riggs

Spring is in full flourish in Washington DC in April too, with the cherry blossoms taking centre stage. Like Amsterdam, the cool climes make this an ideal time to explore the city's major attractions. However, it's a popular time to visit, and so it's worth planning well ahead to get a room in one of the city's best hotels. Our Gurus have selected a chic converted warehouse, two opulent historic stays, and a property with a popular restaurant as their top city picks. 

  • Hotel Hive is an old converted warehouse offering a chic contemporary space in a central location. Rooms are simply styled with exposed brick and whitewashed walls, and beams left exposed. From spacious queens to bunk rooms, there's a range of options. The one to pick for great rates without scrimping on comforts.
  • Swann House is a lavish and inviting 19th century B&B. The more opulent suites come complete with four poster beds, sateen sheets, private whirlpool bathtubs, and wood-burning fireplaces. Conveniently located just minutes from major sites, in the charming and historic Dupont Circle neighbourhood. 
  • Riggs is a special place. An old bank building, with all the associated grandeur and large proportions, which has been completely overhauled with gallery-worthy contemporary style. Rooms are individually designed, plus there's a superb French bistro and a bar that's sure to keep you coming back!
  • The Hay-Adams offers award-winning hospitality and fabulous views of the White House. A prime location for Washington DC. Luxurious large rooms boast Italian linens and modern bathrooms. The Lafayette is an upscale restaurant popular around town, or head to Off The Record for a cocktail. A prime spot for local exploring. 

Maldives

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

There are several benefits to visiting the Maldives in April. Firstly, the weather is warm, and the seas are calm, making it an ideal time to enjoy diving, snorkelling, and watersports. Perhaps the biggest lure, though, is that it is a less busy period, meaning you are likely to bag a deal on your hotel. There are a host of standout properties in the Maldives, but our Gurus' favourite four include an exceptional five-star, a boutique hotel, an eco-friendly stay and a private-island resort. 

  • The Maldives can be frighteningly expensive, but The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi is an exception. Far enough from Male to require a seaplane transfer, this well-run resort offers desert island seclusion (the whole island is given over to the resort) and tons of family-friendly activities.
  • Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu is an eco-friendly resort on its very own tropical island reachable by seaplane. Thatched villas offer a barefoot luxury chic to your hideaway stay; think romantically decorated rooms with four-poster beds and ethereal drapes. Eat well at the restaurant, enjoy the water sports and relax at the spa. 
  • Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa is a luxury boutique resort situated on a privately owned virgin island. Exclusive villas come with personal butlers and some with private pools. An extensive spa uses Natura Bissé products. Five-star cuisine is served in a truly romantic setting. And with plenty of activities on offer, this is complete bliss.
  • Huvafen Fushi is a unique Maldivian luxury resort that combines the wonders of nature with the luxuries and style of a five-star experience. Expect sleek villas, fantastic watersports, the ultimate pampering in the world's first underwater spa and delicious meals. A true hideaway in utter bliss. 

Costa Rica

Tortuga Lodge and Gardens

April in Costa Rica marks the end of the dry season, meaning the weather is hot and sunny, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife spotting as animals move towards bodies of water. However, if Easter falls in April, it can be extremely busy and needs thorough planning. Our Gurus have hand-selected four of the best properties, including a lodge perfect for an escape to nature, two oceanfront boutique hotels, and a design-led property in the rainforest.

  • Tortuga Lodge and Gardens is a chic lodge with an enviable location deep within the jungle. Airy lodges are all wood and glass. Large terraces are the ideal spot to take in the view. Sample local delicacies in the atmospheric restaurant and enjoy lazy hours lounging by the pool. A glorious spot to really get back to nature.
  • Mint Santa Teresa is a stylish adult-only boutique hotel set amidst the jungle with spectacular ocean views. Each of the five rooms are sleek, spacious, and airy. Expect sharp lines, locally crafted furniture and art, and epic views from your bed. With an infinity pool and the beach a stroll away, this is a hip stay.
  • Cala Luna is a contemporary boutique hotel boasting an enviable location just steps away from white sand Playa Langosta on Costa Rica's Pacific Coast. Chic rooms, suites and villas are light and airy with soft hues, plenty of glass and luxurious bathrooms. You'll also find an excellent restaurant, poolside bar and pampering spa treatments. 
  • Pacuare Lodge offers secluded lodges in the heart of the rainforest in Limon Province. Creatively designed to immerse the architecture in nature; think carefully placed windows giving maximum views, baths overlooking the forest canopy and plenty of wood. Feast on exquisite cuisine. A grown-up's luxury adventure land.

STILL NOT SURE?

Good Countries to Visit in April

Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu

Maldives (Orchid Magu )

Eco-friendly resort on its very own tropical island reachable by sea plane. Thatched villas offer a barefoot luxury chic to your hideaway stay. Romantically decorated rooms with fourposter beds and ethereal drapes. Eat well at the restaurant, enjoy the water sports and relax at the spa.

  • Beach Life - Whether it's lazing on the white sandy beaches, hunting out turtles or diving the deep - there is something for everyone!
  • Honeymoons - An ideal honeymoon hideaway with private dining, romantic boat trips, couples' massages and your own secluded love nest.
  • Spa - Pamper yourself at the award winning Coco Spa, with beauty treatments and Indonesian, Thai and Indian massages.
  • Great walks - With acres of sandy beaches and jungle to explore there is plenty to keep you entertained.
from £293 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Huvafen Fushi

Maldives (North Malé Atoll)

Unique Maldivian luxury resort that combines the wonders of nature with the luxuries and style of the 5*. Sleek villas mirror the surrounding crystal blue water. Fantastic watersports, the ultimate pampering in world's first underwater spa and delicious meals. A true hideaway in utter bliss.

  • Eco break - This resort gives back to the local community, supporting coral-reef rehabilitation projects and sustainable local businesses.
  • Honeymoons - Honeymoon heaven: destination dining anywhere on the island, sunset cruises, couples' massages and long walks on the beach.
  • Spa - The world's first underwater glass-walled spa.
  • Swimming Pool - Lovely outdoor pools.
from £866 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hideaway Beach Resort & Spa

Maldives

A luxury boutique resort situated on a privately owned virgin island. Exclusive villas come with personal butlers and some with private pools. An extensive spa uses Natura Bissé products. Five star cuisine served in a truly romantic setting. Plenty of activities on offer. Complete bliss.

  • Families - Superb family friendly accommodation and a wide range of activities for all ages make this ideal for a family holiday in the sun
  • Beach Life - White sands, crystal clear waters and a watersports centre offering water skiing, wake boarding, jet skiing and diving.
  • Romantic Break - Secluded and spacious Villas boasting private pools or Jacuzzi's, with romantic couples dining under a canopy of stars.
  • Diving - Meridis is a PADI 5* Gold Dive Resort licensed centre, so get out there and explore the fish filled waters!
from £392 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi

Maldives (Northern Atolls)

The Maldives can be frighteningly expensive. Iru Fushi is an exception. Far enough from Male to require a seaplane transfer, this well-run resort offers desert island seclusion (the whole island is given over to the resort) and tons of family friendly activities.

  • Spa breaks - The pampering spa has a resident Ayurvedic doctor who will tailor make a programme for your individual needs
  • Families - This resort has everything you need for a family holiday: kids club, kids' menus, pool, water sports...
  • Restaurant - As well as the expected international buffet, you can go to a range of restaurants from Vietnamese to French
  • Spa - Superb spa with 20 treatment rooms, which focusses on holistic and Ayurvedic treatments.
from £217 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel V Frederiksplein

Amsterdam (Canal Ring)

This modern B&B in the heart of Amsterdam with stylish rooms and a handful of self-catering apartments. Interiors mix retro furniture with chic modern design pieces. Apartments, complete with kitchenettes, are perfect for small groups & families. A convenient and well-priced base in the city centre.

  • City Style - A chic mix of vintage designer furniture and contemporary design pieces set against steely hues makes this a stylish stay
  • Local exploring - Set between the old city centre and the hip quarter of De Pijp, it is convenient both for sightseeing and restaurants
  • Self catering - The self-catering loft apartments (that sleep three) are a great option for those in search of a home-away-from-home
  • Artworks - Find photos by the renowned 19th-century Dutch photographer Jacob Olie adorning the walls
from £101 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Park Centraal Hotel

Amsterdam (MuseumKwatier)

A stylish contemporary hotel well located between Leidseplein and Vondelpark. Spacious rooms and suites are decorated in cool steely hues and feature coffee makers and modern artworks. Home to MOMO Restaurant, there's excellent fusion Asian cuisine plus there's a chic cocktail bar.

  • Local exploring - Well positioned between Leidseplein and Vondelpark giving guests access to both the city's best nightlife and major attractions
  • Families - Spacious Family Suites are made for contemporary families with coffee machines, living areas, and a separate area to work
  • Foodies - Home to the award-winning MOMO restaurant which is Amsterdam’s first upscale Asian-fusion restaurant
  • Contemporary - Stylish contemporary style sees steely hues, hip Scandi-esque furniture, and modern artworks
from £132 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Swann House

Washington DC (Dupont Circle)

A lavish and inviting 19th century B&B. The more opulent suites come complete with four poster beds, sateen sheets, private whirlpool bathtubs, and wood burning fireplaces. Conveniently located just minutes from major sites, in the charming and historic Dupont Circle neighborhood.

  • Local exploring - Located in the historic Dupont Circle neighborhood, there is plenty to see and do in the vicinity and further afield
  • Full of character - Plenty of original features including crystal chandeliers, elaborately carved fireplaces and original plaster moldings.
  • Restrictions on children - Children over 12 years old can be accommodated, however no extra beds will be provided.
  • Sights nearby - The White House, Tudor Place, Mount Vernon, The Old Town Trolley and the National Zoo
from £131 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Hay-Adams

Washington DC (Downtown)

Award-winning hospitality, fabulous views of the White House. A prime location for Washington DC. Luxurious large rooms with Italian linens and modern bathrooms. The Lafayette is an upscale restaurant popular around town, or head to Off The Record for a cocktail. Prime spot for local exploring.

  • Sights nearby - Farragut Square and the Admiral David G Farragut Statue are just around the corner to the hotel.
  • Restaurant
  • Great walks
  • Boutique
from £373 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Charlotte

California (California)

This historical B&B offers brilliant service, location at the gateway to Yosemite perfect for nature ramblings and family activities. Comfortable and cozy rooms come with a complimentary breakfast. Fork & Love serve a mix of classic and French cuisine with local produce. Sun, snow, hiking, climbing.

  • Fishing - Bring your fishing gear and head to the Tuolumne River.
  • Great walks - Walks around Pine Mountain Lake are stunning.
  • Views - Don't forget your camera!
  • Restaurant
from £75 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Pacuare Lodge

Limon Province (Río Pacuare)

Secluded lodges in the heart of the rainforest. Creatively designed to immerse nature and architecture; think carefully placed windows giving maximum views, baths overlooking the forest canopy and plenty of wood. Feast on exquisite cuisine. A grown-up's luxury adventure land.

  • Back to Nature - Immerse yourself in the rainforest. Fall asleep with the calls of the wild and spend adventure filled days exploring the jungle.
  • Hideaway - When it takes a raft to reach the property you can be sure of total seclusion.
  • Birdwatching - The rainforest is teaming with birds many of which can bespotted early morning from the property itself.
  • Restaurant
from £396 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Cala Luna

Tamarindo (Guanacaste)

A contemporary boutique hotel boasting an enviable location just steps away from white sand Playa Langosta. Chic rooms, suites and villas are light and airy with soft hues, plenty of glass and luxurious bathrooms. Excellent restaurant, poolside bar and pampering spa treatments. Fabulous.

  • Active Holiday - The coastal rainforest positioning provides the perfect terrain for numerous outdoor pursuits.
  • Sailing - Take a half or full day excursion in one of the hotel's boats and choose to snorkle, fish or dive.
  • Surfing - The hotel offers lessons and Tamarindo beach is perfect for beginners.
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool.
from £166 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Tortuga Lodge and Gardens

Limon Province

A chic lodge with an enviable locality deep within the jungle. Airy lodges are all wood and glass. Large terraces are the ideal spot to take in the view. Sample local delicacies in the atmospheric restaurant and enjoy lazy hours lounging by the pool. A glorious spot to really get back to nature.

  • Back to Nature - A luxury property located riverside and set amidst the jungle.
  • Sailing - Take a guided boat ride through Tortuguero National Park in search of the bountiful wildlife.
  • Fishing - Fish for Tarpon or Snook on the Atlantic coast.
  • Restaurant
from £140 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Van de Vijsel

Amsterdam (Vondelpark)

A beautifully crafted hotel offering cool contemporary aesthetics in the heart of the city. Designed in and out with wood while mixing traditional and modern designs. Rooms are simple with a Scandi-chic feel (plenty of wood again and simple crisp white linen). The city's sights are a stroll away.

  • Local exploring - Set right between two of Amsterdam’s most desirable places — to the east, the canal district, and to the southwest, Vondelpark
  • Architectural - Once home to the timber trade family business, it has been artfully designed using lots of reclaimed wood - a design masterpiece
  • Museums - Stroll down to the Rijkmuseum and marvel at the Dutch Golden Age painting masterpieces and vast European art collection
  • City Style - An architecturally slick property crafted from fine wood craftsmanship in the heart of the city
from £119 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Riggs

Washington DC (Penn Quarter)

This is a special place. An old bank building, with all the associated grandeur and large proportions, completely overhauled with gallery-worthy contemporary style. Rooms are all individually designed; there is a superb french bistro and a bar that's sure to keep you coming back!

  • City Style - The hoteliers have done a stellar job here, blending the grandeur of the old bank building with some cool contemporary style
  • Bar - Arguably one of the most inventive cocktail lists offered in the city in this elegant bar
  • Sights nearby - Visit the iconic Washington Monument and the Memorial Mall or the U.S. Capitol
  • Spa
from £222 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Hotel Hive

Washington DC (Foggy Bottom)

An old converted warehouse offering a chic contemporary space with a central location. Rooms are simply styled with exposed brick whitewashed and beams left exposed. From spacious queens to bunk rooms there's a range of options meaning some come in at very reasonable rates.

  • Value chic - A chic property offering a variety of rooms from bunks to spacious queens - making this an affordable option
  • Sights nearby - Lincoln Memorial, the White House and the Kennedy Center are all about a 10 minute walk away
  • Restaurant
from £112 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Evergreen Lodge, California

California (California)

Running for nearly a century, Evergreen Lodge has the outdoor escape just right. Cosy lodges have roaring fires, plenty of wood and plaid fabrics. However, the bathrooms are reassuringly modern. Outside there are activities galore from hiking trails to a saltwater pool. Back to nature perfection.

  • Active Holiday - Located beside Yosemite National park there are a wealth of hiking an mountain biking opportunites in the area
  • Families - With boundless space and outdoor activities, this is the perfect base for a family holiday
  • Romantic Break - Cosy lodges, roaring fires, and complete seclusion - a great choice for outdoorsy couples
  • Great walks - Hike in the Hetch Hetchy Valley, just a 10-minute drive from the hotel
from £107 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Rush Creek Lodge

California

A lodge hotel with superb facilities just outside Yosemite National Park. Interiors are simple and modern, the best have sitting areas and wood-burning stoves. The property centres around a saltwater pool (there is an adult-only one too). With a spa and games room, this is a perfect family stay.

  • Families - With family suites, an extensive games room, and outdoor activities for all - this is a perfect family hotel
  • Back to Nature - Located just on the border of Yosemite National Park, expect some seriously beautiful surrounds
  • Spa - Indoor/outdoor spa with warm waterfall coves, Himalayan Salt sauna, Aromatherapy steam room and much more!
  • Spa breaks - With fantastic wide ranging spa facilities, and a comprehensive menu of treatments you can really relax!
from £149 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

AutoCamp Yosemite

California (Midpines)

All the comforts of a luxury hotel, in the form of a campsite. A collection of tents, Airstream trailers and cabins just a short drive from the entrance to Yosemite National Park. Pick a trailer for spa-like bathrooms and mini kitchens. Complete with a pool and outdoor firepits. Camping perfection

  • Back to Nature - Set in picturesque landscapes just 45 minutes from the entrance to Yosemite National Park
  • Romantic Break - Book an Airstream trailer for a cosy hideaway for two
  • Great walks - Spend days hiking in Yosemite National Park
  • Swimming Pool - Outdoor pool
from £223 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Mint Santa Teresa

Puntarenas (Santa Teresa)

A stylish adult-only boutique hotel set amidst the jungle with spectacular ocean views. Each of the five rooms are sleek, spacious, and airy. Expect sharp lines, locally crafted furniture and art, and epic views from your bed. With an infinity pool and the beach a stroll away, this is a hip stay.

  • Hideaway - Set back in the jungle and with wonderfully secluded rooms allowing guests to take in the views, this is an idyllic hideaway
  • Boutique - Expect chic modern design with locally sourced wooden furniture and art from Costa Rican artists at this boutique stay
  • Beach Life - Set just a 500m walk from the nearest beach, the whole property boasts ocean views and there's great surfing too
  • Groups - With just five rooms and stunning communal spaces, this would make a very hip base for a group getaway
from £164 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

The Highlander Hotel

Amsterdam

Set in a redbrick townhouse, this hotel sits in the lively heart of the historic centre of Amsterdam. A mishmash of patterns and design give the interiors a fun, creative vibe — think tartan walls and vibrant pops of colour. There's a stylish bar plus lots to do on the doorstep. A cool city stay.

  • City Style - Luxurious, king size beds, spacious bathrooms with rain showers, and unique, colourful decor make this a chic city getaway
  • Local exploring - There's so much to see here — visit historical museums, charming markets, picturesque canals and majestic buildings
  • Great walks - Wander around Dam Square and marvel at the heritage-listed facades that recite stories of the city's rich history
  • Sights nearby - It's a short walk to the Anne Frank House where you can learn about her amazing life and legacy
from £164 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees

Written by Katie Harris

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