by Katy Holland

Are we there yet? Bargain family fun in the sun

Another plea from a cash-strapped parent has arrived in my inbox. Symi George is looking for "family fun in the sun during August" – on an impressively small budget. Just like the rest of us, then.

You can find some good-value breaks off the beaten track. Head for the Alps in the summer, for example, and you'll get sunshine, peace and tranquillity and lots of low-cost family activities, too. The Switzerland Travel Centre (020-7420 4934; stc.co.uk) has just launched its summer 2009 brochure, which includes some new and very affordable child-friendly options. Take a scenic break at a lakeside campsite at Interlaken, where the peak-season price for a mobile home for two adults and three children will set you back £728. You'll get mountains and river views, and a private beach where the kids can try canoeing and fishing.

Norway is also good value: top whack for a spacious mountain log cabin in the fjords is £930 in midsummer with Norsc Holidays (01297 560033; norsc.co.uk). You even get your own private boat for messing about in. Not a bad way to have fun in the sun during peak season.