If you’re the kind of parent who likes to lead by example when it comes to being physically active, then you probably like to throw a bit of adventure and action into your holidays too. Often there’s no better way to really enjoy a new environment than getting out there – whether it’s via mountain bike, horseback, or just armed with your hiking boots!
Even better, testing your skills at a new sport or physical activity with your kids gives you all the chance to discover new strengths, and maybe even a passion that will last a lifetime. Here are some of the best places to do just that!
Sand boarding the desert dunes in Namibia
Humanity has long been fascinated by the desert, and if you have a couple of teenagers in tow, then this vast sandy landscape becomes one giant adventure playground! Many families enjoy the freedom of a self-drive safari, but long trips in the car can be a bit problematic if you have very young kids.
If your kids are at that classic skateboarding age, however, then you absolutely have to let them have a go sand boarding the colossal dunes that Namibia is so famous for! Stay in Swakopmund to take advantage of both easy access to the dunes and the rigged coastline, as well as some world class shopping, fine dining, and even an indoor heated swimming pool to soothe aching muscles after your desert adventure!
Camping in the Wild West
Camping under the stars among the towering canyonlands of America’s south-west has to be one of those memories you’ll treasure forever, and this dramatic landscape lends itself perfectly to hiking.
With five national parks to hike, plenty of horse trails to explore and even a bit of kayaking and other water sports on offer, you’re guaranteed to find something to delight every member of the family. And if you find yourself craving a bit of glitz and glam, why not spend a night or two in Vegas for a change in scenery?
Pottering about in Scotland
If you have younger kids, then they will absolutely adore this charming adventure wonderland set in Scotland’s Big Tree Country! Two hours’ drive from Glasgow is the 18th-century mansion of Dalguise, which used to be the summer home of none other than Beatrix Potter.
Today, the 50 acres of garden are given over to zipwiring, abseiling,tree and rock climbing, canoeing, and mountain biking activities, and there’s even an indoor sports arena for those rainy days and chilly evenings. Mom and dad can get in the action, or just enjoy the ancient natural woodland that makes you feel you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale.
Learn something new at Porto Elounda, Crete, Greece
The list of activities at this innovative beach retreat appears to be endless, so you should have no problems finding something to entertain every member of the family no matter their age!
From yoga and Tai Chi, golf, water aerobics and tennis, to water sports and oriental dancing, you can pick up a new skill all while you enjoy the stunning seaside views. Plenty of activities designed for younger kids as well as a 24 hour nanny service mean that parents can take a bit of a break in the onsite luxury spa when they feel the need too!
Clamber your way to the top with a rock-climbing holiday in Spain
Whether you’re an experienced climber or a complete beginner, Spain’s rocky terrain offers the perfect location to hone your skills! Get in touch with one of the country’s expert tour providers to help you find the right location, show you the ropes, and make sure you and your family are in safe hands every foot-hold of the way!
Better yet, the temperate climate makes Spain an ideal climbing destination all year round.
Surf’s up down under
With such an epic coastline, it’s not surprising that Australia is home to plenty of world-class surfing schools, and learning to ride the waves has to be one of the most fun ways to enjoy those gorgeous waters!
They’ll provide you with all the equipment you need, and most schools accept kids from 6 years of age. When it comes to accommodation, can take your pick from charmingly low-key beachfront cottages, or stay in one of the more glamorous resorts or hotels for a bit of pampering!
The family that plays together, stays together
Whether your ideal holiday includes sun, sand and surf or scaling the heights, having a shared adventure is always a great bonding experience.
So get out there, get active, and create some awesome memories you and your kids will treasure forever!
Cat Robinson is a freelance writer lucky enough to be living on the beautiful KwaZulu Natal coast of South Africa. Instilled with a love of language from an early age, she enjoys bending her pen to different subjects, researching new topics and, hopefully, giving a touch of flair to every piece she writes!
She is passionate about educating her readers through entertaining content that makes complex issues easier to understand, and has written on topics as diverse as vegan nutrition to woodworking tools to travel. When she’s not writing or entertaining her three feline furbabies, she enjoys experimenting in the kitchen with indigenous plants – often with mixed results!
Find her at http://catrobinson.pressfolios.com/
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