If you are looking for something a little bit different to do this year, then it could be worth taking the family to the Alps. In the summer months, the mountains make a great playground, different from the ski slopes of winter.
It is fair to say most people associate the Alps with ski holidays. Our view of these magical European mountains is shaped entirely by snow and towering ice cliffs. In actual fact, the mountains are green for many months of the year and there is a whole host of great adventures and excursions to be had for the active family in this part of the world.
Vitality And Variety
If you are someone who enjoys spending their holidays getting active, then the mountains offer a great deal of possibility. Hiking is obviously one of the main activities which can be enjoyed in the Alpine regions, but family activity holidays can also encompass other exciting pursuits, such as white water rafting or bouldering. To see more of the region, you can also explore on horseback, something which somehow perfectly captures the romantic spirit of these ancient mountains.
Mountain bikers can find plenty of testing routes with which to tangle, whilst road bikers can tour some challenging and breathtakingly beautiful road routes. The rivers and streams of the mountains provide adventure for canoeists and rafters and climbers of all descriptions and types are unlikely to be bored when travelling here.
Many travel package providers also build family friendly activity trips which include plenty of things for children to do. Indeed, some children’s services, such as bike hire, are often provided as a complementary part of active holiday packages. Children will also receive expert tuition in activities in safe environments, helping them to enjoy their holiday even more.
History And Culture Too
Of course, any visit to the Alps is not limited to adventurous activities. There are plenty of lovely villages to explore, many of which have ancient churches and cultural delights. The cuisine of the Alpine region is invariably hearty and excellent, whichever country you are in. Swiss chocolate and dairy produce are renowned the world over, whilst if you are in France, Italy or Germany there are wonderful culinary nuances and regional specialities to explore and enjoy.
There is also the chance to spot wildlife in this part of the world. Chamois and elk can be found in many of the mountain woodlands and valleys, while spotting marmosets in Switzerland is always fun. Impressive birds of prey such as Golden Eagles sweep and soar overhead. For anyone who prefers a more sedentary and calm kind of adventure, wildlife watching can make for a wonderfully memorable holiday.
So next time talk turns to family activity holidays, make sure that the Alps are mentioned. With a choice of different countries and a whole host of transport hubs to choose from, getting there is not too hard. You are guaranteed to return with a rucksack full of magical mountain memories.
AUTHOR BIO: Joana Hall is an American journalist who now lives and works in Europe, with her main area of expertise the travel industry. She now writes about a range of travel adventures, including family activity holidays, for a whole host of blogs and websites across the internet.
