Three week summer adventure with three kids: any ideas?
Jan 11th, 2018, 08:31 AM
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Three week summer adventure with three kids: any ideas?
We are a family of five (three kids ages 8,13,15). We have three weeks to spend in Europe this summer and I’m looking for some help with preliminary plannning/inspiration from you experts out there!
A bit more about us: we are active and love the outdoors. We aren’t big on days spent exploring museums and tourist sites. We prefer to get to know a couple of places really well rather than trying to see it all.Our kids have asked for warm weather, some beach time, and good food (Italy is their fave!).
Places we have been: France (Paris, Provence), Italy (Rome, Venice, Tuscany, Amalfi C, Puglia), England (London, Cotswolds), Scotland (Edinburgh, Highlands, Skye).
Here are the basic bones of what we would like the trip to look like:
Week 1 - 2 (10 days) family adventure of some sort (biking, hiking, boating). We love the outdoors and being active. We are up for moving around a bit from place to place for this week if needed. Places considered so far: Switzerland hiking, biking in Spain, boating in Croatia. We are good to fly into a larger city and spend a couple of nights getting over jet lag before heading out to the countryside.
Week 2-3 (10 days) - time to relax in a private house somewhere with a pool and within driving distance to the beach. We love slow days with time to explore small towns and then spending time by the pool or at the beach. Puglia was our most amazing experience like this so far! Places considered so far: Sicily, Sardinia, N Tuscany near Florence, Greece
I know this will make some of you crazy since I am being quite vague. I am really just looking for some inspiration and ideas at this point. I will dive deeper into planning once I sort out a basic plan. THANK YOU. You guys have helped me plan three amazing family. trips so far....I’m hoping number four will be the best yet!
A bit more about us: we are active and love the outdoors. We aren’t big on days spent exploring museums and tourist sites. We prefer to get to know a couple of places really well rather than trying to see it all.Our kids have asked for warm weather, some beach time, and good food (Italy is their fave!).
Places we have been: France (Paris, Provence), Italy (Rome, Venice, Tuscany, Amalfi C, Puglia), England (London, Cotswolds), Scotland (Edinburgh, Highlands, Skye).
Here are the basic bones of what we would like the trip to look like:
Week 1 - 2 (10 days) family adventure of some sort (biking, hiking, boating). We love the outdoors and being active. We are up for moving around a bit from place to place for this week if needed. Places considered so far: Switzerland hiking, biking in Spain, boating in Croatia. We are good to fly into a larger city and spend a couple of nights getting over jet lag before heading out to the countryside.
Week 2-3 (10 days) - time to relax in a private house somewhere with a pool and within driving distance to the beach. We love slow days with time to explore small towns and then spending time by the pool or at the beach. Puglia was our most amazing experience like this so far! Places considered so far: Sicily, Sardinia, N Tuscany near Florence, Greece
I know this will make some of you crazy since I am being quite vague. I am really just looking for some inspiration and ideas at this point. I will dive deeper into planning once I sort out a basic plan. THANK YOU. You guys have helped me plan three amazing family. trips so far....I’m hoping number four will be the best yet!
Jan 11th, 2018, 08:45 AM
#2
Have a look at the Mosel river in Germany, nice river with boating options on it and good bike paths up and down the river, the wine is nice too.
https://www.mosellandtouristik.de/en/
https://www.mosellandtouristik.de/en/
Jan 11th, 2018, 09:18 AM
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Netherlands: check out one of the Dutch Islands. Texel is the most easy to reach, but Vlieland, Terschelling and Ameland are wonderful too. Your family adventure could also be to do a barge/bike cruise in the Netherlands. For instance
https://boatbiketours.com/boat-bike-...st-of-holland/
There are loads of outfits to choose from. I encounter many bike touring groups and in summer most also have children in the group, from about 8 years old and upwards, so it might suit your family.
https://boatbiketours.com/boat-bike-...st-of-holland/
There are loads of outfits to choose from. I encounter many bike touring groups and in summer most also have children in the group, from about 8 years old and upwards, so it might suit your family.
Jan 11th, 2018, 12:08 PM
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In Italy, there are some very nice bike routes in the Parco del Ticino, in Lombardia. The river Ticino runs through the park, and there are also canals with towpaths. Before the 20th century, the Grande Naviglio (canal) was an important connection with Milan and many noble families built their villas there. We spent several days biking in the area with a group of friends. We stayed at a B&B in the town of Abbiategrasso, where other cyclists also stayed. There is lots to see in the area: the 12th century abbey of Morimondo, with incredibly beautiful intarsia choir stalls; the beautiful piazza of the town of Vigevano, the villas along the Naviglio (the grand canal leading to Milan), the picturesque village of Casinetta di Lugagnano, the bridge of boats across the Ticino river near Bereguardo, constructed during WWII and still in use.
For the time near a beach, Sardegna has some amazingly beautiful beaches. I don't know if you're looking for the kind of beach that would appeal to kids and teens, or if you want scenic beauty, or unspoiled nature.
There are also some very nice hill towns in Le Marche (where I live) that are not far from beaches. Recanati is one such town. Others to consider would be Serra de' Conti, Corinaldo, and Monterado. Since I live in the area, and have no connections in the tourist industry, I'm not an expert on rental properties. Properties with pools are usually called "country house". I know that there's a castle in Monterado that rents rooms to guests. They also have six apartments in the village, that have full access to the park of the castle, including its pool. The pool, of course, would be shared.
I've never stayed there, but someone else on Fodors did, on my recommendation, and enjoyed her stay very much.
In the summer, almost all Italian beaches would be crowded, except those that are not very accessible. For example, along the Riviera del Conero, a scenic stretch of coast in Le Marche, I know of two beaches that are not crowded in the summer. One can only be reached by boat, and the other is only reached by a steep path. (There may be others I don't know about.) However, even the busiest beaches are much less crowded on weekdays (except in August, when they're always crowded). You can usually find parking by going early in the morning (before 8) or in the late afternoon.
The new Fodors format doesn't recognize me as a long-time contributor, and won't allow me to post links until I have made at least five posts. I wanted to post a photo album of our bike tour in Lombardia and a link to the castle of Monterado.
I'll try to return in a few days to post the links.
For the time near a beach, Sardegna has some amazingly beautiful beaches. I don't know if you're looking for the kind of beach that would appeal to kids and teens, or if you want scenic beauty, or unspoiled nature.
There are also some very nice hill towns in Le Marche (where I live) that are not far from beaches. Recanati is one such town. Others to consider would be Serra de' Conti, Corinaldo, and Monterado. Since I live in the area, and have no connections in the tourist industry, I'm not an expert on rental properties. Properties with pools are usually called "country house". I know that there's a castle in Monterado that rents rooms to guests. They also have six apartments in the village, that have full access to the park of the castle, including its pool. The pool, of course, would be shared.
I've never stayed there, but someone else on Fodors did, on my recommendation, and enjoyed her stay very much.
In the summer, almost all Italian beaches would be crowded, except those that are not very accessible. For example, along the Riviera del Conero, a scenic stretch of coast in Le Marche, I know of two beaches that are not crowded in the summer. One can only be reached by boat, and the other is only reached by a steep path. (There may be others I don't know about.) However, even the busiest beaches are much less crowded on weekdays (except in August, when they're always crowded). You can usually find parking by going early in the morning (before 8) or in the late afternoon.
The new Fodors format doesn't recognize me as a long-time contributor, and won't allow me to post links until I have made at least five posts. I wanted to post a photo album of our bike tour in Lombardia and a link to the castle of Monterado.
I'll try to return in a few days to post the links.
Jan 11th, 2018, 01:03 PM
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If you do biking, do it in the Netherlands. We have the best bicycle in the world, especially for kids. Here, 8 year old kids cycle to school and everywhere. On their own.
And it's flat. I don't see your kids biking up a hill. And if you go outside of Amsterdam, suddenly, meals and lodging become much cheaper. Even if you only do a few nights in B&Bs north of Amsterdam, it'll be good. Waterland, the island of Marken, Monnickendam, Volendam. I bike all over, also overnight, so if you want tips, just let me know
And it's flat. I don't see your kids biking up a hill. And if you go outside of Amsterdam, suddenly, meals and lodging become much cheaper. Even if you only do a few nights in B&Bs north of Amsterdam, it'll be good. Waterland, the island of Marken, Monnickendam, Volendam. I bike all over, also overnight, so if you want tips, just let me know
Jan 11th, 2018, 01:14 PM
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bilboburgler Thanks for the suggestion. I will look into it a bit more. You gave me helpful info when i planned our last trip.Thanks for coming onboard again!
Last edited by Francewithfive; Jan 11th, 2018 at 01:21 PM. Reason: more info to add
Jan 11th, 2018, 01:15 PM
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We had not considered going back to France this time but i have heard of the Dordogne and will give it a bit of research time. Any specific places you suggest? I guess we could mix it up with hiking, biking, boating...and wine drinking for the adults!
Jan 11th, 2018, 01:19 PM
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bvlenci thank you so much. Let Marchers is a region I considered before we went to Puglia. I love that it is a bit off the beaten path and offers that beach access. We found the beaches in Puglia quiet on weekdays as well so I can imagine what you are talking about. I am going to look into this area more carefully. Parcel del Ticino sounds really interesting too. We would be open to staying in Italy if it could offer both pieces of what we are looking for. My kids are in LOVE with Italy! I will definitely be back with more questions for you. I would love to see your photos if you are able to post them. Thank you
Last edited by Francewithfive; Jan 11th, 2018 at 01:22 PM. Reason: autocorrect made errors
Jan 11th, 2018, 01:20 PM
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menachem thank you for the ideas. I will be back with some questions for sure. The Netherlands seems idyllic for biking. Do you know o any companies that will transfer luggage while you bike? We don’t want to go on an organized tour but love the idea of moving from place to place for 3-4 days.
Jan 11th, 2018, 02:00 PM
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Right. I found you this: you'll have to google translate. Basically it's 4 day's biking through the northern part of the province of South Holland
https://www.dutch-biketours.nl/fietsen-met-kinderen-noord-holland-zuid-6-dagen?parentpid=1626&q=%7B%22type_id%22%3A%5B%222% 22%5D%2C%22textSearch%22%3A%22%22%7D
It's tailor made for families. For instance, on the day that you go to The Hague, the route takes you to Madurodam, which you can visit (great for kids)
You can even go skiing at Snow World in Zoetermeer.
The trip to The Hague, past the royal palace of Huis ten Bosch is great, through one of the last remaining dune forests to the sea. Next day is via Wassenaar to Noordwijk on the coast. This is where the Dutch rich people live. Beautiful estates. You'll cycle past where our king and queen now live, Eikenhorst. There's a theme park nearby, Duinrell, again, included because of the kids. Been there once with my son, years ago. Quite nice actually. The Rodelbahn is cool.
Next day is a cycle around out of Noordwijk. No tulips on the field in summer, but you can visit ESA Space Expo, our European Nasa, so to speak.
Last day is Noordwijk to Zoetermeer, via Katwijk (fishing harbour) and Leiden. (they don't mention it on the page, but make sure to visit the Antiquities Museum (RMO) and you can see the spot where the house stood where Rembrandt was born.
They'll transport your luggage. You can rent bikes for yourself and for the children.
https://www.dutch-biketours.nl/fietsen-met-kinderen-noord-holland-zuid-6-dagen?parentpid=1626&q=%7B%22type_id%22%3A%5B%222% 22%5D%2C%22textSearch%22%3A%22%22%7D
It's tailor made for families. For instance, on the day that you go to The Hague, the route takes you to Madurodam, which you can visit (great for kids)
You can even go skiing at Snow World in Zoetermeer.
The trip to The Hague, past the royal palace of Huis ten Bosch is great, through one of the last remaining dune forests to the sea. Next day is via Wassenaar to Noordwijk on the coast. This is where the Dutch rich people live. Beautiful estates. You'll cycle past where our king and queen now live, Eikenhorst. There's a theme park nearby, Duinrell, again, included because of the kids. Been there once with my son, years ago. Quite nice actually. The Rodelbahn is cool.
Next day is a cycle around out of Noordwijk. No tulips on the field in summer, but you can visit ESA Space Expo, our European Nasa, so to speak.
Last day is Noordwijk to Zoetermeer, via Katwijk (fishing harbour) and Leiden. (they don't mention it on the page, but make sure to visit the Antiquities Museum (RMO) and you can see the spot where the house stood where Rembrandt was born.
They'll transport your luggage. You can rent bikes for yourself and for the children.
Last edited by menachem; Jan 11th, 2018 at 02:04 PM.
Jan 11th, 2018, 02:11 PM
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I do not know how to make this print larger so here it goes. YOu do not mention your budget. i think Amsteredam is a very nice area for a family//children to use for a base for a week or so.... with lots to see and do and day trips out to villages/cheese factories, biking, windmills, easy to arrange from most hotels. etc.Most good hotels will have locked rooms where one can leave luggage for a day or two if returning to hotel, and plans made ahead with them. Also I'd suggest train down to Switzerland, maybe night in Zurich and train down to Grindelwald/Murren/ Wengen area which I think would be amazing for the children. The hiking is awesome, and above Wengen at the Mannlichen (big plateau area)there were these low to the ground sort of bicycles that children can use or rent, at the top of the lift (better research this, there in July 17) Looks like older children could use them too. Never seen mountains like this, Jungfrau, Monch, part of Eiger.....just awesome and great trains. I'd also limit how many places you are going to, not so easy with 3 children. More costly than Italy probably but an amazing part of Europe for me. Sue
Jan 11th, 2018, 07:04 PM
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menachem I can’t thank you enough for taking the time to find the tour for us. It looks great for the whole family. If we decide on Holland, I think that is the best way to do a bike trip!
Jan 12th, 2018, 01:25 AM
#16
You might like mybikeguide.co.uk which features a whole load of flat land bike rides across Europe.
The Netherlands certainly has a lot of bike paths and in some ways Denmark is almost at the same density of pathing but not quiet with Germany coming in about third across Europe. Italy and France are well behind that, but I have to admit I like riding in both countries, but I am an adult very used to riding on roads.
if I had kids of that age I might avoid Italian cycling, not that local drivers are not great (in Italy they amazingly are very courteous to bikes) but the routes are seldom complete. On the other hand bvlenci is a very good guide to Italy, so if they reckon the route is good it should be.
The Netherlands certainly has a lot of bike paths and in some ways Denmark is almost at the same density of pathing but not quiet with Germany coming in about third across Europe. Italy and France are well behind that, but I have to admit I like riding in both countries, but I am an adult very used to riding on roads.
if I had kids of that age I might avoid Italian cycling, not that local drivers are not great (in Italy they amazingly are very courteous to bikes) but the routes are seldom complete. On the other hand bvlenci is a very good guide to Italy, so if they reckon the route is good it should be.
Jan 12th, 2018, 04:27 AM
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Hi,
Why you'are not considering Portugal, best world destination by world travel awards 2017 (Oscars of tourism) it has everything you want and more...
For beach days look no further:
The Algarve region, the best beach destination of Europe 2017 by World Travel Awards 2107, lots of beach and water activities, lost of white-washed old villages, food to die for, plenty of restaurants, and the weather is perfect. Lots of island and a natural reserve to watch sea life.
VisitAlgarve - Portal de Turismo do Algarve
Hiking options close to the Algarve: Costa vicentina natural park : most amazing Atlantic unspoiled reserve of Europe, Wild rock clifs, white sandy beaches, waves, old fishing villages, unspoiled nature, were Europe finish and the mighty Atlantic starts, surf mecca of Europe,lagoons, hiking opportunities everywhere:
https://www.visitportugal.com/en/node/73805
At the north of the country:
The world heritage site of Porto and the Douro river valley, words can describe it, need to see:
Douro Valley | Visit Douro
Porto and Northern Portugal Tourism Official Website | ARPT Porto e Norte
Lisbon city, world best city break destination by world travel awards 2017, Culture, beach, nature, amazing architecture, romantic Villages like Sintra, world class beaches in the Arrabida natural Park, dolphins watch, hiking, surf mecca:
https://www.visitlisboa.com/lisbon
Strart your thread for Portugal, you wont regret
Why you'are not considering Portugal, best world destination by world travel awards 2017 (Oscars of tourism) it has everything you want and more...
For beach days look no further:
The Algarve region, the best beach destination of Europe 2017 by World Travel Awards 2107, lots of beach and water activities, lost of white-washed old villages, food to die for, plenty of restaurants, and the weather is perfect. Lots of island and a natural reserve to watch sea life.
VisitAlgarve - Portal de Turismo do Algarve
Hiking options close to the Algarve: Costa vicentina natural park : most amazing Atlantic unspoiled reserve of Europe, Wild rock clifs, white sandy beaches, waves, old fishing villages, unspoiled nature, were Europe finish and the mighty Atlantic starts, surf mecca of Europe,lagoons, hiking opportunities everywhere:
https://www.visitportugal.com/en/node/73805
At the north of the country:
The world heritage site of Porto and the Douro river valley, words can describe it, need to see:
Douro Valley | Visit Douro
Porto and Northern Portugal Tourism Official Website | ARPT Porto e Norte
Lisbon city, world best city break destination by world travel awards 2017, Culture, beach, nature, amazing architecture, romantic Villages like Sintra, world class beaches in the Arrabida natural Park, dolphins watch, hiking, surf mecca:
https://www.visitlisboa.com/lisbon
Strart your thread for Portugal, you wont regret
Jan 12th, 2018, 06:14 AM
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Or what about sailing in the Greek Islands - we have used this company twice and had a great time:
https://www.activityholidaysgreece.com/
https://www.activityholidaysgreece.com/
Jan 12th, 2018, 08:14 AM
#20
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bilboburgler I agree with Italy being suitable for older teens and adults. It’s outside of my comfort zone for my little one. Thanks for the link to bike routes - I will check it out.
mbjl1976 Portugal is definitely up for consideration. Our family is just getting into surfing so that appeals as well. I will check out those links - thank you.
jamikins sailing the Greek Isles sounds heavenly but I think we might save that until our little one is a bit older and more interested. I looked at the website and that company looks very good. I will save the link for future trips.
mbjl1976 Portugal is definitely up for consideration. Our family is just getting into surfing so that appeals as well. I will check out those links - thank you.
jamikins sailing the Greek Isles sounds heavenly but I think we might save that until our little one is a bit older and more interested. I looked at the website and that company looks very good. I will save the link for future trips.
