I imagine for some people the idea of a holiday that involves spending time with children isn’t all that appetising. It’s not everyone’s idea of relaxation, but for those with beloved little ones there are few things more rewarding than down time with the mini-humans.

Now sending your children to school (and university) these days is enough of a strain on the finances without having to shell out thousands for a family getaway. Luckily there are options available to suit almost every budget, which is why we’ve selected five family friendly spots in the Western Cape that are also kind to the back pocket.

Check ’em out, just don’t show the kiddies until everything is booked and sorted or else it’s snot en trane time.

Kam’Bati River Resort, Swellendam – R1 000 per four sleeper unit

Kam’Bati River Resort is situated where the Riviersonderend and Breede Rivers meet, just 20 km outside of Swellendam.

The resort is a fisherman’s dream. The river boasts a large number of fish including the carp, bass, eel, springer and barber. It also has a super tube, swimming pools and canoes to rent. The resort is very safe and you wont have to worry about your kids enjoying themself on the farm.

Red Stone Hills Holiday Farm, Oudtshoorn – R380 per person

Red Stone Hills Holiday Farm is situated on Route 62, between Oudtshoorn and Calitzdorp and farms ostriches, cattle, sheep, lucern and vines. Children are welcome to join tractor rides in the mornings while feeding the animals and families can enjoy spectacular views of the Red Stone Hills, vineyards and river.

A scenic, circular route links the farm with the Swartberg Pass, Cango Caves and the Cango Wildlife Ranch. They offer horse riding on a pony, birdwatching, swimming in the pool or river, rock art, hiking and walking trails to view small mammals, antelope, fynbos and succulents. It is truly a paradise for children and artists.

Indigo Blue Beach House, Langebaan – R3 995 per eight sleeper unit

Indigo Blue is a classic beach house which provides the ideal base for a laid-back holiday. Situated on Sandbaai Beach, the house has its toes in the sand as you can literally walk from the front door out onto the beach.

The shallow and protected lagoon waters are great for kids, with the nearby rock pools providing hours of entertainment. Various activities are available, including kite surfing, guided kayak trips on the lagoon, deep sea fishing, horse riding and more. Attractions in the area include the West Coast National Park, the West Coast Fossil Park and the Kwa Ttu San Reserve.

The house has provided kids toys and games and a DVD player to keep them occupied when necessary.

Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway, Rawsonville – R280 per person

Dwarsberg Trout Hideaway is the perfect place for functions, fly fishing and family getaways. Cool off in the crystal clear river pool or enjoy mountain biking and hiking on the trails. Wine tasting and cellar tours are at the nearby Daschbosch Wine Cellar and can be prearranged, as well as great trout fishing in the Holsloot River.

Coral Tree Cottages, Plettenberg Bay – R385 per person

Coral Tree Cottages offers you a homely getaway to explore the delights of the Garden Route, easily within reach of the famous Cango Caves, Tsitsikamma Nature Reserve and many world-class golf courses.

Visit Adventure Land, where the whole family can enjoy the super tubes, water slides and play park. There is also Monkeyland, Birds of Eden and the Knysna Eelephant Park which are well worth a visit. View whales and dolphins, cycle through the indigenous forests or hike the many exciting trails that Plettenberg Bay has to offer.

Happy holidaying ladies and gents, with spots like these you may even squeeze in a moment or two where the kids are off doing their own thing…