Luxury residential resorts are redefining their offerings to ensure that both children and adults enjoy their stays. The focus is shifting from merely providing physical amenities to creating immersive experiences tailored for all age groups, particularly teenagers who often seek more engaging activities than traditional resort facilities provide. Kevin Blary, an outdoor pursuits director at CostaTerra in Portugal, emphasizes the importance of experiences in bonding families. From organizing competitive sports to arranging private lessons with world-renowned athletes, these resorts aim to create lasting memories. Meanwhile, developers recognize the need for innovative recreational programs that cater specifically to older children, ensuring that family retreats remain appealing even as kids grow up.
In the heart of Portugal's coastal beauty lies CostaTerra, where Kevin Blary orchestrates a variety of adventures designed to captivate property owners and their families. Nestled between Comporta and Melides, this exclusive resort offers mountain biking excursions, horseback rides along pristine beaches, and numerous sporting challenges. Blary highlights the competitive spirit among residents, noting how they eagerly participate alongside their children. For those seeking extreme thrills, surfing lessons with Garrett McNamara or helicopter trips to Nazaré showcase the resort's commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences. These activities foster family connections, making the time spent here invaluable throughout the year.
Robert Green, founder of Sphere Estates, underscores the evolving needs within the luxury second-home market. Over 60% of sellers cite their children's transition into adolescence as a pivotal factor influencing decisions to part ways with properties. Many resorts traditionally prioritize toddler-friendly amenities while neglecting teenagers' interests. To address this gap, modern developments now incorporate dynamic options like FC Bayern football camps, NBA coaching sessions, and archaeological digs. Costa Navarino exemplifies this approach by integrating educational programs alongside sports training, enriching the overall experience for young guests.
Further innovations emerge from high-end destinations such as Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani in the Maldives. These renowned resorts emphasize wellness through yoga classes, marine biology workshops, and mindfulness exercises. By steering children away from digital screens, they promote healthier lifestyles and encourage exploration of new hobbies. Upcoming projects like Baccarat Maldives plan to extend these efforts further, offering junior wellness programs and creative workshops. Similarly, One&Only Mandarina Private Homes in Mexico invites teens to delve into nature's mysteries via rainforest expeditions led by award-winning designers.
As the demand for experiential distractions grows, so does the potential for child-focused hospitality. Consultancy firm Wanderland estimates a global market worth $175 billion, encompassing various sectors including gaming and media. Developers increasingly adopt hotel-like strategies, focusing on soft programming rather than relying solely on infrastructure. This shift includes introducing cultural education, culinary arts, and ecological awareness initiatives. Such enhancements not only satisfy current owners but also cultivate loyalty among future generations.
The evolution of residential resorts reflects a deeper understanding of family dynamics across different life stages. By prioritizing unique experiences over conventional attractions, these establishments secure long-term engagement from their clientele. As John Hitchcox demonstrated with The Lakes by Yoo in the UK, creating environments conducive to interaction and discovery ensures sustained interest. Ultimately, keeping children entertained translates directly into increased satisfaction for adult homeowners, establishing robust foundations for tomorrow's luxury property enthusiasts.