Your own pizza – Children´s Club at Waldhaus Sils
Europe may well be a place of romance, adventure and history, but it’s also wonderful for families. From lush green parks to hands-on museums, there’s so much to do together in European cities. Choose the right place and little ones will fall in love with the continent: landmarks straight out of a fairytale, castles with countless stories to tell, mountains wilder than they could ever imagine… the only problem you’ll have is cramming it all into one adventure.
Here are three of the best places to visit with the youngsters – and the most welcoming family hotels to stay in while you’re there:
Ireland with children
Mount Juliet Country Estate
From the legend of the Giant’s Causeway to the wild and wonderful Phoenix Park, Ireland feeds children’s imagination like no other place in the world. Where else can you search for faerie raths, discover magical castles, and jig to traditional folk music as a family?
Do visit the exciting capital, Dublin, for a Viking Splash Tour – not only will they teach you the rich history of the city, they’ll do it all in a fun, amphibious vehicle. If you’re staying closeby, just over one hour from Dublin and only 20 minutes from the historical city of Kilkenny is Mount Juliet Country Estate. This spectacular walled estate sits within 1,500 acres of sprawling countryside, perfect for woodland walks and bike rides together.
Families can be assured of a break brimming with activities, from horse riding in the vast grounds to an introduction to the world of golf for little ones. If you want to recharge the batteries, let the hotel’s daily supervised kids club keep the children busy while you enjoy treatments in the luxury spa.
Switzerland with children
Waldhaus Sils
Switzerland may be small, but it packs in a whole lot for families. Travel to sparkling azure lakes, wander through chic cities and take trains high up in the Swiss Alps. Whether you’re going for an easy stroll in Zurich or a long trail in the Lake Geneva region, you’ll find the country is a hiking paradise – just look out for the ‘Wanderweg’ signs.
For a stay the children won’t forget, book at night at the iconic Waldhaus Sils in Sils-Maria. From a bright and colourful children’s club to a playground in the forest, there’s plenty to keep little ones occupied. For the more adventurous, take a dip in Lake Sils, rent a mountain bike, go windsurfing or head to the nearby high-rope park. If you’ve budding chefs in the family, they’ll love becoming pizza chefs in the big Waldhaus kitchen on Thursdays.
France with children
Le Bouclier d’Or
With croissants, baguettes and crepes galore, children will love the food and atmosphere of France. Head to Paris with the family and you’ll find the city isn’t just for romantics. Parks are plentiful – you’re sure to fall in love with Jardin Luxembourg’s palace, peddle cars and toy boats for sailing.
Another welcoming city for families is Strasbourg, with Cathedral Notre Dame in all its glory and historic boat tours around the city. The Petite France district, close to the centre, is a must-visit. The cosy neighborhood is straight out of a fairytale, with half-timber gingerbread houses and old-world streets to wander. Spend a night in the heart of it all at the idyllic boutique hotel Le Bouclier d’Or, which boasts spacious rooms fit for families.
