Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
Do your kids find it hard to sit still? Ensure they’re entertained from beginning to end when you go away together by choosing one of these amazing holiday types for active children.
Surf’s up!
Making sandcastles can entertain children for hours when they’re young, but it doesn’t cut the mustard when they get older and more active. That doesn’t mean you have to say goodbye to beach holidays though! Enter: surfing and other sea-based water sports.
There are many family-friendly coastal areas in Europe where children can learn how to surf, and younger siblings can ride the same waves on bodyboards. You can get a private villa in the Algarve, the southernmost corner of Portugal renowned as a surfing playground, or cosy up in a converted cottage along the coast of Cornwall which holds a surfing festival each August.
Wildlife safari
Is there anything more wondrous than seeing the world’s incredible creatures in the wild? A safari adventure is a great way to get outdoors and occupy young minds and will also deliver enchanting moments that will be memories to last a lifetime.
Africa is the obvious safari destination. Vast unspoiled landscapes stretch for as far as the eye can see, ranging from deserts to jungle and concealing an astonishing array of animals. Tanzania is a great choice for a traditional jeep safari: led by expert guides, spend days spotting lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos in the national parks around Mount Kilimanjaro, and nights discussing your sightings over dinner beneath the stars.
Cycling trip
Combine countryside, culture and cuisine on a cycling trip in Europe. The region is designed for safe exploration on two wheels with cycle paths in towns and along most roads, and there are many fairly gentle trails suitable for little legs.
Slovenia is an up-and-coming option where you can easily escape the crowds while experiencing the breathtaking beauty of the Alps. Cycle around the iconic Lake Bled which is straight from a fairytale with a floating castle at its centre and continue into the low-lying hills. The Austrian lakes are equally picturesque and almost completely flat.
Skiing
Looking for a winter break rather than a summer holiday? Head to higher areas of the Alps for incredible skiing and other winter sports. These energetic pursuits will thrill your kids, and they’ll gain skills that will come in useful repeatedly during the rest of their lives.
France’s Avoriaz is a great option for younger children where safety is of prime concern thanks to its car-free centre and choice of nursery slopes and green runs. Val Thorens is fantastic for kids of all ages with excellent facilities in addition to the snow-sure runs. For a more relaxed, laidback feel and plenty of festive magic, look no further than Zell Am See in Austria.
Disclosure – this is a collaborative post.
