10 of the best family self-catering holidays in Spain

From a cottage in the mountains to stylish pads in Seville and Barcelona, we select the best self-catering properties in Spain to keep the kids – and you – happy

Ea Astei, near Guernica, Basque Country

In the green and rolling hills of the Basque Country, this off-beat retreat skilfully navigates the line between chic and child-friendly. Choose between a traditional apartment in the main house with stone walls, open fire and wooden ceilings, or one of the state-of-the-art zero-energy pads in the garden built from glass and wood, with white-washed walls, black granite kitchens and wood-burners. There's also a little garden house with a bunk room for kids. Children can let off steam in the big, shady garden with its hammocks, pergola and tame rabbits, or splash about in the swimming pool. There are lots of good beach options within 10km, from paddling in the shallows at Ea or taking on the big waves at Mundaka, a renowned surf spot. You can also head to the Guggenheim in Bilbao (45km) and nearby Guernica to stock up on local honey, cheese and wine at the market. 
• Apartments sleep two to six people; from €140 per night for the Etxola garden house, which sleeps 2-4, to €500 for Vita, which sleeps 4-6, i-escape.com

http://www.theguardian.com/travel/2014/jul/09/10-best-self-catering-holidays-spain