One of the challenges of planning a family getaway is finding a destination that everyone will love. But with a little inspiration, it’s actually easier than you think! From visiting the Italian lakes to skiing in Switzerland and cycling in France, here are five ideas for the perfect family escape!
- Visit the Italian Lakes
Italy is one of the world’s most family-friendly destinations, so it’s an ideal choice for your family escape. And if you’re a family who loves adventures in the great outdoors, you should venture into the country’s lake regions.
Lake Garda is an exceptional choice. Since it’s the largest lake, there will be endless opportunities for you and your kids to bond over fun activities. You can swim, sail, or try your hands at windsurfing! The towns surrounding Lake Gard are also worth exploring. Stroll through their narrow streets and stop by cosy cafes or gelato shops. The region is also home to Gardaland, a fun theme park with rides and water slides!
Lake Como is another fantastic option. It’s very scenic, with dramatic mountain views on its backdrop. You and your kids can bond by exploring quaint villages like Bellagio and Varenna. Join a boat tour, a fun and easy way to see different areas of the lake. And if you have kids who love hiking, follow the trails surrounding Lake Como and stop by at some viewpoints to enjoy the spectacular views!
If you prefer somewhere quieter, consider Lake Maggiore. It’s more tranquil than the other famous Italian lakes, so it’s the perfect place for families looking to unwind. Consider taking a boat tour to the nearby Borromean Islands. Your tour will take you to picturesque islands like the Isola Bella, home to a majestic palace with lush gardens.
- Go on a Safari in Kenya
A safari in Kenya is the ultimate escape for families who love the wildlife. It’s an excellent way to let your kids experience nature up close and witness their favourite animals in their natural habitats. Kenya has beautiful national parks and reserves that allow you and your kids to enjoy incredible animal sightings.
The Maasai Mara is especially famous for its annual Great Migration. It’s an incredible wildlife spectacle where thousands of zebras and wildebeest journey across vast plains in search of fresh grazing lands.
Take your kids on a guided game drive to see the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo). Make your visit to the Maasai Mara unforgettable by trying a hot air balloon ride at sunrise. It’s a fascinating way to admire wildlife from above!
Another option is the Amboseli National Park, which is perfect if your kids love cute elephants. Here, they can observe large herds of elephants with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background! Make the most of your wildlife adventures by booking a guided walking safari. It allows your kids a closer look at smaller animals. You also stop by some local villages and learn about the Maasai culture.
Safari in Kenya
- Go Skiing in Switzerland
Want to bond over winter sports? Then a skiing adventure in Switzerland is the perfect family escape! The Swiss Alps are home to some of the world’s best ski resorts, boasting incredible views and reliable snow. Many of these resorts have top-notch facilities for you and your kids to have fun on the slopes all day!
Zermatt is a popular choice for families, thanks to its variety of slopes. If your kids are new to skiing, they can take lessons, while the more experienced skiers can enjoy the challenging runs.
Zermatt is home to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, which has breathtaking views and year-round snow. For non-skiers, try tobogganing, ice skating, or scenic winter hikes. There is something for every family member to enjoy in Zermatt!
Grindelwald is another excellent option for family-friendly skiing adventures in Switzerland. It’s part of the Jungfrau region and is best known for its gentle slopes, ideal for young skiers. While here, take your kids on a scenic train journey to Jungfraujoch, the “Top of Europe,” where you can marvel at incredible mountain views.
- Explore the Spanish Islands
For fun days at the beach, consider exploring the Spanish Islands for a family escape. Spain is home to charming islands with pristine white sands, where you can bond with kids over fun activities.
Mallorca is one of these islands. It has sandy beaches with calm and shallow waters, perfect for those with young children. The island is also home to Palma Aquarium, where kids can see marine life up close. There are also fun water parks, such as the Aqualand and Western Water Park, perfect for bonding with your kids over fun slides and rides!
Ibiza is not only for parties; it’s great for families too! The island has family-friendly beaches, such as Cala Llonga, where the water is shallow and safe for your little ones. Besides hanging out at the beach, take your kids on boat trips to discover hidden coves. Consider staying in villas in Ibiza for families for a relaxing and private experience.
These villas can come with fully equipped kitchens where you can prepare meals for picky eaters or enjoy a family BBQ. Plus, they’re often located in peaceful areas, away from the busy nightlife, so you can enjoy the beauty of the island in a quiet setting.
Explore the Spanish Islands
- Try Cycling in France
France is the perfect destination for families who bond over outdoor adventures like cycling. The country has many scenic cycling routes, including easy ones that lead through charming villages and stunning vineyards.
Loire Valley is perfect for a family cycling trip. The trails here are peppered with stunning châteaux and vineyards, allowing for an unforgettable cycling adventure. Plus, most trails are flat and easy, suitable for your kids. You can also cycle along the Loire a Velo route, known for its historic castles and beautiful gardens.
France Vineyards
Provence is another fascinating region for cycling in France. It has trails leading through lavender fields, lush olive groves, and vineyards. Explore the Luberon Regional Park on a bike and cycle along gentle paths ideal for families. Stop at charming villages like Gordes and Roussillon along the way and dine at family-run restaurants to sample Provencal cuisine.
