‘In Switzerland, it’s possible to sledge between two railway stations’: readers’ favourite family adventures in Europe

Alpine Thrills: Sledging from Preda to Bergün on the Bernina Express Route
Layla Astley’s journey back from a ski trip in Italy took an exhilarating detour, proving that rail travel in Europe is ripe for impromptu escapades. Opting for a segment of the iconic Bernina Express, a UNESCO World Heritage route renowned for its spectacular engineering and breathtaking Alpine vistas, Layla and her companions seized an opportunity for a unique winter adventure. The Bernina Express itself is an marvel, traversing 196 bridges, 55 tunnels, and scaling impressive gradients without cogwheels, offering panoramic views of glaciers, viaducts like the Brusio Circular Viaduct, and pristine mountain landscapes as it connects Tirano in Italy to Chur or St. Moritz in Switzerland. It’s a year-round favourite, but its winter charm is particularly captivating.

Upon hearing about a distinctive local tradition, they disembarked at Bergün, a picturesque village nestled in the Albula Valley. The plan was simple yet ingenious: leave their luggage securely at the station, then take the regional train back one stop to Preda. This seemingly counter-intuitive step set the stage for a thrilling descent. Preda is the starting point of one of Switzerland’s most celebrated natural toboggan runs, a 6-kilometre (approximately 3.7-mile) stretch that transforms a former railway track into a high-speed winter playground. Unlike many purpose-built sled runs, this one follows the natural contours of the valley, making it accessible yet exciting.

Renting traditional wooden sledges from Preda, Layla anticipated a gentle glide into town. What unfolded, however, was a fast-paced, two-hour burst of adrenaline and laughter. The tree-lined course, often illuminated for evening runs, provided a dynamic backdrop as they hurtled down. Layla vividly recalled moments feeling like they were "in the game Mario Kart," a testament to the twists, turns, and sheer speed of the descent. The unexpected highlight was being overtaken by a children’s birthday party, the birthday girl’s sledge adorned with colourful trailing balloons, underscoring the run’s universal appeal across all ages. This communal, joyful atmosphere, combined with the crisp mountain air and stunning scenery, elevated a simple journey into a cherished memory. The Bergün-Preda toboggan run is a prime example of how Switzerland, with its efficient public transport and embrace of outdoor activities, seamlessly integrates adventure into its landscape, attracting an estimated 20,000 visitors annually to this specific route alone during the winter season. The experience highlights a growing trend in "slow travel" and experiential tourism, where the journey itself, punctuated by unique local activities, becomes as significant as the destination. After their exhilarating ride, they simply collected their luggage and continued their onward rail journey, refreshed and invigorated.

Venice by Dawn: A Night Train’s Unforgettable Gift
Sophie’s family of five discovered the profound rewards of strategic planning and the magic of overnight rail travel during their Interrail adventure. Interrailing, a rail pass allowing unlimited travel across European countries, has long been a favourite for its flexibility and environmental benefits, particularly appealing to families seeking to explore diverse cultures without the constant hassle of airport security. While often associated with backpacking, it offers a surprisingly comfortable and cost-effective way for families to navigate the continent, though managing logistics for five, including luggage, requires careful thought.

Their "cherry on the cake" moment was the night train from Vienna to Venice, likely the popular ÖBB Nightjet service. These modern overnight trains offer a range of accommodation from basic seats to private sleeping compartments with beds, providing a unique blend of practicality and romance. For a family, securing a private compartment transforms travel into an adventure in itself, with the rhythmic clickety-clack of the tracks lulling them to sleep and the excitement of waking up in a new country.

Arriving at Venice Santa Lucia station around 8 am, before the city fully awakens, proved to be a stroke of genius. Venice, a city famously grappling with overtourism, reveals a different, more intimate character in the early hours. Instead of battling the throngs, Sophie’s family could take the vaporetto (water bus) along the Grand Canal in relative calm. The vaporetto system, Venice’s public transportation network, offers a scenic and efficient way to navigate the city’s waterways, providing an unparalleled first glimpse of its architectural splendour.

They wandered through quiet, atmospheric streets, the morning light painting the ancient facades in soft hues. The pinnacle of this serene experience was lingering on the Rialto Bridge in "relative solitude," a feat almost unimaginable during peak daylight hours. This iconic bridge, usually a pulsating hub of activity, became a vantage point for private reflection, offering unobstructed views of the bustling canal life below. They took their time crisscrossing canals and exploring hidden calli (narrow streets) before the city’s daily hustle and bustle truly began.

This unexpected calm in mid-August, a time when Venice is typically overflowing with tourists, underscores the value of early starts and off-peak explorations. While Venice hosts over 20 million tourists annually, with August being a peak month, arriving just as the city stirs offers a distinct advantage. As one travel expert might advise, "To truly experience the soul of a heavily touristed city, you must embrace the dawn. It’s when the city breathes, before it performs for the crowds." For families, this early morning window provides a stress-free environment, allowing children to absorb the magic without being overwhelmed, creating precious, unforgettable memories that defied all expectations.

Swiss Alps: A Summer Playground for Families
Lucy’s account of exploring Switzerland’s Lauterbrunnen Valley in summer with her young children paints a picture of a meticulously designed, family-centric alpine paradise. The Lauterbrunnen Valley, often called the "Valley of 72 Waterfalls," is a stunning U-shaped glacial valley in the Jungfrau region, famed for its dramatic cliffs, verdant meadows, and iconic waterfalls like Staubbach Falls. It’s a hub for outdoor activities, effortlessly accessed by Switzerland’s world-class public transport system.

The Swiss Federal Railways (SBB) are renowned for their efficiency and innovation, and Lucy highlighted their "playground family carriages," often branded as "Family Coaches" or featuring interactive "Tschu-Tschu-Bahn" themes. These dedicated compartments are equipped with slides, climbing frames, and games, transforming travel time into playtime – a brilliant solution for keeping children entertained on longer journeys. This commitment to family comfort extends throughout the Swiss tourism infrastructure.

The alpine playgrounds, such as the Allmendhubel Flower Park and Alpen Playground above Mürren, are far from ordinary. Reached by scenic cable cars, some even boasting whimsical karaoke machines, these playgrounds are integrated into the natural landscape. Allmendhubel, for instance, offers stunning panoramic views of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau peaks while providing imaginative play structures inspired by alpine flora and fauna. These are not just places to play, but immersive experiences designed to connect children with nature and local culture.

In the charming car-free village of Wengen, the family discovered further unique delights. Interactive marble runs carved into the landscape captivated the children, while the option to hire a "fondue backpack" epitomized Swiss ingenuity and culinary tradition. This portable kit allows families to enjoy an authentic fondue picnic amidst breathtaking mountain scenery, turning a simple meal into an adventurous outing. Many shorter, waymarked walking routes in the region are thoughtfully designed for families, incorporating engaging activities along the way, such as interactive stations for blowing an alpine horn or milking a model cow. These playful elements encourage participation and make hiking enjoyable for even the youngest adventurers.

Unlike crowded coastal resorts, the Swiss Alps in summer offer vast, uncrowded spaces for exploration, catering to all abilities with well-maintained trails. The emphasis on active, educational, and culturally immersive experiences, combined with Switzerland’s reputation for safety and cleanliness, makes it an ideal destination for families seeking an enriching holiday. As a representative from Switzerland Tourism might state, "Our mountains are not just for extreme sports; they are a grand playground for families, fostering a love for nature and adventure from a young age, supported by unparalleled infrastructure." This focus on diverse, engaging activities is a significant driver for the Jungfrau region, which sees millions of visitors annually, with a growing segment being families drawn to its unique blend of adventure and accessibility.

Norway: Where Teenage Boys Find Their Wild Side
Lucy Bissell’s family adventure through Norway demonstrates the country’s unparalleled ability to captivate and challenge even the most discerning teenage boys. Norway, a land of dramatic fjords, towering mountains, and vast wilderness, is a natural playground for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike.

Their journey began in Oslo, Norway’s capital, where they embraced the city’s modern outdoor culture. The inclusion of "saunas and fjord jumps" highlights a burgeoning trend: floating saunas dotting the city’s waterfront, offering a unique blend of relaxation and invigorating cold plunges into the fjord waters. This urban yet wild experience set the tone for the adventure that followed. From Oslo, they travelled north to Lillehammer, home of the 1994 Winter Olympics. The Olympic Park isn’t just a historical site; it’s an active centre offering bobsleigh rides, ski jumping experiences, and museums that continue to inspire sporting ambition.

The heart of their trip lay in Jotunheimen National Park, a majestic wilderness often referred to as "The Home of the Giants" for its concentration of Norway’s highest peaks. This region provided ample opportunities for rigorous hiking, culminating in the ascent of Galdhøpiggen, Norway’s highest mountain at 2,469 metres (8,100 feet). Climbing Galdhøpiggen typically involves a guided trek across a glacier, a challenging yet incredibly rewarding experience that demands physical stamina and a sense of adventure, perfect for engaging teenagers. The panoramic views from the summit are breathtaking, offering a sense of achievement few other activities can rival.

Beyond peak bagging, they explored a glacier, likely on a guided tour, which provided an educational insight into glaciology and the raw power of nature. This was complemented by the exhilarating experience of white-water rafting, probably on one of Norway’s famed rivers like the Sjoa, known for its thrilling rapids. Safety briefings and expert guides ensure that such high-octane activities are both safe and immensely fun.

The combination of Norway’s dramatic scenery, from the serene fjords to the rugged mountains, and the abundance of diverse outdoor activities created a perfect summer holiday, particularly for teenagers who thrive on challenge and independence. As an adventure travel outfitter might confirm, "Norway is a dream destination for families with teens. It offers that rare blend of natural beauty and structured adventure that keeps young minds engaged and bodies active, pulling them away from screens and into the wild." The growth in adventure tourism in Norway reflects this appeal, with national parks like Jotunheimen experiencing increasing numbers of visitors seeking active, immersive experiences that create lasting bonds and memories.

Dutch Road Trip: A Journey of Discovery and Delight
Noreen’s family of four opted for a refreshing change from their usual all-inclusive summer breaks, embarking on a two-week road trip through the Netherlands. This choice highlighted the country’s often-underestimated appeal as a family-friendly destination, celebrated for its excellent infrastructure, short travel distances, and a culture that warmly embraces children.

Their adventure commenced in Amsterdam, where they immersed themselves in the vibrant capital before picking up a rental car. While Amsterdam is known for its canals and historic sites, it also offers plenty for families, from canal cruises and Vondelpark’s expansive playgrounds to interactive museums like NEMO Science Museum, catering to curious young minds.

Their first stop after Amsterdam was Duinrell Eurocamp, perfectly pitched for her nine and twelve-year-old children. Duinrell, located near Wassenaar, is more than just a campsite; it’s a resort offering a wide range of accommodation, from mobile homes to luxury lodges, complemented by its own amusement park and the famous Tikibad subtropical water park. This setup provided days of self-catering fun and relaxation, allowing the kids to enjoy rides and waterslides while parents could unwind.

The next destination was the enchanting Efteling theme park, a place that left a profound impression on the children. Efteling, situated in Kaatsheuvel, is unique among European theme parks. Unlike its more commercial counterparts, Efteling is steeped in folklore, fairytales, and mythology, creating a truly "mythical, magical, thrilling" experience. Its meticulously themed dark rides, rollercoasters, and the iconic Fairytale Forest bring stories to life with exceptional artistry and attention to detail. It’s a cultural institution in the Netherlands, beloved for its ability to transport visitors into a world of wonder.

The final leg of their journey led them to Texel, one of the five Wadden Islands off the northern coast of the Netherlands. The ferry journey itself was an exciting part of the adventure for the children. Texel, part of a UNESCO World Heritage site, offered a slower, more relaxing end to their holiday. Staying in a cozy hut that came with bikes, the family embraced the island’s flat landscape and extensive network of cycle paths, exploring dunes, picturesque villages, and wide, sandy beaches. Texel is also known for its nature, including seal spotting tours and birdwatching. This progression from city excitement to active park, thrilling theme park, and finally, tranquil nature and relaxation, created a perfectly balanced itinerary. As a Dutch tourism expert might note, "The Netherlands offers an incredible diversity for families, easily navigable by car, allowing for a seamless blend of cultural immersion, active fun, and serene natural escapes." Noreen’s trip exemplifies the growing trend of families seeking authentic, multi-faceted travel experiences over predictable packages.

Winning Tip: The Majestic Grande Cascade of Gavarnie
Chris Henshall’s winning tip transports us to the heart of the French Hautes-Pyrénées, where his young family (a five-year-old and a seven-year-old) embarked on an awe-inspiring walk to the Grande Cascade in the Cirque du Gavarnie. This site is not merely a natural wonder; it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, celebrated for its dramatic glacial cirque – a colossal, natural amphitheatre carved by ice. The Cirque du Gavarnie is a jewel of the Pyrenees National Park, representing geological grandeur on an epic scale.

Starting from the charming village of Gavarnie, a gateway to the high mountains, the family wisely opted to walk the nearly 6-mile (round trip) path, declining the offer of a donkey ride. The trail to the Grande Cascade is well-maintained and relatively flat, making it an "easy day out in summer" even for young children. This accessible path allows families to truly immerse themselves in the pristine mountain environment.

The destination, the Grande Cascade, is a breathtaking sight. Plummeting 420 metres (1,378 feet) in a series of steps, it is France’s highest waterfall and one of Europe’s most impressive. Its waters originate from the melting glaciers high above, making its flow seasonal, strongest in late spring and early summer. The sheer scale of the cirque, with its towering limestone walls, creates an overwhelming sense of majesty and wonder.

Beyond the waterfall itself, the walk offered a rich tapestry of wildlife encounters. The children were delighted by the sight and distinctive whistling calls of marmots, furry alpine rodents. Above, the sky was patrolled by magnificent lammergeiers, also known as bearded vultures, with their formidable 2.5-metre (8.2-foot) wingspans. These rare birds of prey are a testament to the Pyrenees’ thriving ecosystem and ongoing conservation efforts. The presence of "snow bridges over streams" added another element of adventure, a unique natural phenomenon resulting from persistent snowdrifts bridging flowing water. At the walk’s conclusion, the powerful spray from the waterfall provided a refreshing, natural "free shower," a sensory culmination of their journey.

This experience perfectly encapsulates the benefits of family hiking: physical activity, a deep connection with nature, screen-free engagement, and a shared sense of accomplishment. As a hiking guide specializing in the Pyrenees might articulate, "Gavarnie offers an unparalleled opportunity for families to witness the raw power and beauty of the mountains in a safe and engaging way. It’s an adventure that sparks curiosity and leaves an indelible mark on young imaginations." The Cirque du Gavarnie attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, demonstrating its enduring appeal as a quintessential Pyrenean experience, especially for those seeking to introduce their children to the wonders of the natural world.