Looking for a holiday that gets the whole family moving? In this guide, Alexa shares her top picks for active breaks that combine outdoor fun with family bonding.
Finding the perfect holiday that keeps the whole family entertained can be tricky, especially when you’re trying to balance energetic kids, scenic surroundings, and a bit of rest for the grown-ups, too. Active family breaks are ideal for this, combining the excitement of new places with a healthy dose of outdoor adventure.
Whether you’re looking for cycling trails, water sports, hiking, or dog-friendly fun, there are destinations across Europe that cater brilliantly to all ages – even four-legged members. Here are five top picks for unforgettable, activity-packed family getaways, from the rolling countryside of Somerset to the sun-soaked coastline of Spain.
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Scotland
Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is a rugged, magical place that’s ideal for families wanting to swap screen time for fresh air and unforgettable memories. The vast lochs and forested hills offer something for everyone: kayaking on the loch, forest trails for mountain biking, and gentle walks that still feel like a proper adventure.
Kids love wildlife spotting; red squirrels, deer, and even golden eagles can be seen if you’re lucky. Water-based activities are everywhere here, with guided canoe tours, wild swimming spots, and even paddleboarding.
If you’re travelling with little ones, the lochside beaches are perfect for a picnic and a paddle. There are also family-friendly visitor centres and educational trails that keep young and curious minds engaged.
With plenty of cosy lodges and campsites, it’s easy to base yourself somewhere scenic and central. It’s wild, beautiful, and bursting with activity; perfect for families craving outdoor fun.
Costa Brava, Spain
If you’re after a mix of sunshine, adventure, and downtime, Spain’s Costa Brava ticks all the boxes. This Mediterranean coast is lined with family-friendly beaches, dramatic cliffs, and hidden coves waiting to be explored by kayak or paddleboard.
Inland, you’ll find hiking routes through pine forests and hills, many with panoramic views of the coast. Towns like Tossa de Mar offer snorkelling excursions, cycling tours, and boat trips ideal for kids keen to explore nature from a new angle.
For accommodation, you’ll find plenty of luxury family villas in Spain that offer the space and privacy families crave, often complete with pools and outdoor play areas. Many are close to beaches or natural parks, so you’re never far from your next activity.
Whether it’s splashing in the sea, horse riding, or simply enjoying an evening walk along the promenade, Costa Brava is a brilliant pick for energetic families.
The French Alps, France
Often associated with winter sports, the French Alps are just as thrilling in summer, especially for families who love to stay active.
Resorts like Morzine and Chamonix turn into outdoor adventure hubs, offering everything from mountain biking and zip-lining to white-water rafting and hiking. Many lifts run year round, so even younger children can enjoy high-altitude views without the uphill effort.
Family passes and well-marked trails mean you can explore safely and at your own pace. There are dedicated adventure parks for kids, complete with climbing nets, trampolines, and summer luge tracks. The alpine lakes, like Lac Montriond, are brilliant for swimming, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun.
Accommodations range from chalet stays to eco-lodges, often within walking distance of trails or bike hire. It’s active, exciting, and offers a refreshing alternative to a beach holiday. Just what every family with a taste for the mountains and a love of nature wants.
Somerset, England
Somerset is a gem for families wanting an active break without straying too far from home. With the Mendip Hills, Quantocks, and Exmoor all within reach, there are countless hiking and cycling trails suitable for all ages.
Children can run wild at Wookey Hole or climb through the treetops at nearby Go Ape. Cheddar Gorge is a must-visit, a natural playground for curious minds and active feet. Plus, Somerset is incredibly dog-friendly, making it ideal for families with pets in tow.
Staying in one of the many dog-friendly Somerset cottages means no one gets left behind, and there’s plenty of space for both kids and dogs to stretch their legs. Round it off with a paddle along the River Brue or a fossil-hunting trip to Kilve Beach. Somerset blends countryside charm with endless opportunities for adventure, making it a standout option for an all-around family escape.
Lake Bled, Slovenia
Lake Bled is a storybook destination that’s growing in popularity among families, and for good reason. The calm lake is perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, or rowing to the iconic church on Bled Island.
Around the lake is a 6km walking and cycling path that even younger kids can manage. The nearby Vintgar Gorge offers a stunning (and safe) trail through emerald waters and waterfalls.
You can also explore nearby Triglav National Park, with family-friendly hikes and opportunities for rock climbing, canyoning, or zip-lining. The castle perched above the lake has interactive exhibits and panoramic views, which is a fun way to mix education with adventure.
In summer, the area buzzes with outdoor markets, lakeside cafes, and open-air events. Accommodation includes lakeside apartments and family-run guesthouses, often with gardens for kids to play in. Slovenia may not be the first place you think of for a family break, but Lake Bled might just change that.
Final thoughts on family breaks
An active family holiday doesn’t have to mean compromising on comfort or fun, and these five destinations prove it. From the rolling green hills of Somerset, with its dog-friendly cottages, to the sun-drenched shores of Spain, where luxury family villas offer the perfect base for adventure, there’s a break to suit every kind of active tribe.
All of these places combine beautiful landscapes with endless outdoor activities. So pack the walking boots, the wetsuits, and maybe even the dog, and head off for a family holiday that everyone will remember.
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Photo Credits:
All photos on this page are either shot by our team and watermarked as such or stock images from Dreamstime.com.
About the author
Alexa is a talented photographer, writer, and world traveller who speaks four languages. She is equally comfortable walking around a city and exploring museums as she is out in the wilderness discovering nature and photographing wildlife. She is an avid coffee drinker, and can often be spotted in local cafes when she needs a break.
