Martin Fricker

In minuscule Montenegro, some of Europe’s most spectacular scenery is just waiting there to be discovered. Across the Adriatic from Italy, and nestled between Croatia and Albania, this tiny country is crammed with majestic mountains and historic, walled towns – and boasts a colourful coastline perfect for summers in the sun.

After gaining independence from Serbia in 2006, its once sleepy fishing villages began to develop at a steady pace. One of the newest and most exciting hotels for families is the First Choice Holiday Village in Ulcinj.

Set on the 7.5m-long, 165ft-wide Velika Plaza Beach, it is in a prime location for those who love to feel the sand between their toes or snooze under a parasol to the sound of gentle waves.

Launched last year, the four-star, all-inclusive resort has a real luxury feel to it – with pristine pool areas, quality restaurants and gorgeous rooms.

In fact, it has proved such a hit

with guests, it has already added some beautiful new additions for this year, including a swanky new pool as well as deluxe rooms.

For those not familiar with TUI’s allencompassing Holiday Village concept, they are designed to offer maximum fun for families.

Keeping kids of all ages fully entertained with a huge range of activities, these are the holiday resorts which keep on giving. The big attractions are the “academies” for sports fans and those who love to show off talents.

The popular Football Academy sessions are led by FA or UEFAqualified coaches and are open to children aged five to 16. My son Archer, five, loved sharpening up his ball skills followed by a friendly kickabout with his newfound pals.

He also enjoyed some really fun and productive swimming sessions in the Swim Academy. Led by ASA-qualified teachers, they can either be booked on a one-to-one or group basis.

For budding thespians keen to learn all types of stage craft, the BULL’S-EYE Martin shows off his archery skills