Eccentric Family Holidays on the Continent

It’s easy to get caught up visiting the obvious tourist locations whenever you go on holiday. Places like the Eiffel Tower and the Leaning Tower of Pisa are so famous and carry such an aura that it’s hard to ignore them. However, by looking a little bit closer at the countries you’re visiting, and picking out paths not largely trodden, you could find yourself embarking on the unique family holiday of a lifetime.

Two roads diverged in a wood, and I—

I took the one less travelled by,

And that has made all the difference.

(Robert Frost, The Road Not Taken)

France

Cagnes sur Mer

Everybody goes to Paris, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s one of the most famous cities in the world, full of history, culture and famous monuments. Its icons, the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe and the Louvre Museum are desirable tourist destinations.  But it is not the only place in France worth visiting with your family. Beautiful architecture, serene landscapes, wonderful cuisine can be enjoyed across France in countless locations.  If you want to stay closer to nature and make your holiday a real adventure with the children, you could opt for camping. Some exploration and

Mont St Michel

preparation will uncover some perfect spots for camping holidays in France.

Somme is known largely because of the famous battle which took place there in the First World War Of course, there’s more to Somme than that, including the Mers-les-Bains in the south; a great place for an adventure walk with the kids. Of course, history lovers will have plenty to do including visiting Picquigny, where the peace treaty was signed – marking the end of The Hundred Years War.

Italy

Cilento in Italy is another undiscovered gem. It’s a protected region, which means a lot of it is national park and world heritage sites. It’s a village, and a beautiful one at that; like a sun-glazed hamlet from a romantic novel, framed by mountains beneath soaring eagles.

As if that wasn’t enough, it’s only a short distance away from bustling Naples, so you’re never too far away from that big city feel should you and your brood need a top-up!

Cliento really is a picturesque place to visit, and sure to appeal to all family members.

Croatia

Croatia is a fairly recent addition to the European holiday resort canon, but there are still loads of places being overlooked by tourists holidaying there. Among them is the Paklinski Islands, located just off Croatia.

The Paklinksi Islands have proved popular with holidaymakers but also local people who enjoy to stay active, undertaking pursuits such as swimming, watersports, diving and even yacht racing.

molluscs

And for a truly exotic destination, why not try Gambia?

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