Swap screens for storybooks and switch off with an off-grid family adventure

If you’re planning your next luxury family holiday, why not consider a low-tech escape to make the most of your precious time together? People of all ages are increasingly glued to their screens and often don’t make time to reconnect with nature or each other. Off-grid escapes are on the rise as they offer families the chance to prioritise shared adventures, outdoor activities, and quality time spent together. With the upcoming cinema release of The Magic Faraway Tree, there’s no better time to set your little ones’ imagination free and take to the great outdoors for some family fun.

Enid Blyton’s enchanting world will be brought to life in cinemas on March 27th 2026 and the much-loved characters of a series published nearly 90 years ago will return to the spotlight, providing the perfect inspiration to get the whole family excited about low-tech, outdoor activities. In a world where mobile phones, tablets, and consoles have become embedded in our daily lives, storytelling and slower-paced experiences are in demand as parents redirect their children’s attention away from screens and onto storybooks and real-life adventure, especially on holidays.

Children are curious so they will thrive from the adventure attention an off-grid family holiday affords. Research has shown the seemingly endless benefits of time spent in nature and these types of holidays encourage kids and grown-ups alike to use their imagination and bond with each other without technology getting in the way. The story of The Magic Faraway Tree is built on curiosity and courage and inspires children to be the main characters in their own fantasy stories by ditching their screens and heading outside to create and play.

The increasing popularity of off-grid, low-tech family holidays reflects this shift in mentality. Founded in 2003, Oliver’s Travels, an award-winning specialist in holiday rentals, has noted a growing demand for family villas and rural escapes including holiday homes without Wi-Fi and where nature takes centre stage. The company offers specialised service and local knowledge from the concierge team in addition to a wide range of one-of-a-kind properties in the UK, Europe, and all over the world like villas, châteaux, castles, stately homes, beach huts, hobbit houses, ski chalets, and cottages. There are optional additional services including food delivery, fridge stocking, spa treatments, airport transfers, chef and maid services, local excursions and more. Oliver’s Travels offers everything from a Greek Island escape for up to 20 guests to a grand French castle retreat for 15 to an intimate, 6-person Italian mountain getaway in the Dolomites.

What’s more, these types of holidays can be completely personalised with an itinerary full of fun for all the family from woodland exploration to water-based activities. The natural surroundings provide plenty of space to unwind in peace, dine under the stars, or try your hand at something new. Parents will set an example by showing that screen-free family time is more enriching and rewarding than days spent in front of the TV. Children will enjoy their new-found freedom and benefit from a stress-free break from day-to-day life.

Images courtesy of Oliver’s Travels

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