Unexpected Europe for Families
Finland
“The Land of 1,000 Lakes” could just as easily be known as the land of a million saunas … or perhaps reindeer. The superlatives are endless, as are the wonders this Scandinavian treasure holds. Perched on the Baltic Sea, its capital city, Helsinki, showcases cutting-edge interior design, modern architecture, and world-class museums.
Lapland sits above the Arctic Circle in a location perfect for viewing the shapeshifting phenomenon that is the northern lights. This is also where Sami, Indigenous reindeer herders, reside. While exploring this winter wonderland, you can partake in myriad outdoor adventures. Dog sled across the vast tundra to your luxury glass igloo to watch shooting stars above you.
Finland is the quintessential holiday destination where you can introduce your children to Santa’s elves in their workshop and mailroom, as well as the world's most epic sleigh ride.
Slovenia
Cavernous caves … snowcapped mountains … glacial lakes. Add medieval castles and the sparkling Mediterranean, and you have a recipe for a vibrant European destination. Sprinkle in thousands of vineyards, thermal hot springs, and islets and you’ve completed a truly magical experience—without crowds!
Italy’s neighbor to the north not only features Lake Bled, one of the most beautiful in Europe, but also its pristine alpine landscape, fringed by the Alps. Here, alpine rivers provide epic whitewater rafting opportunities—an active family's adventure paradise. This locale also provides easy access to Croatia.
The Netherlands
Welcome to one of the few places on earth where bikes outnumber cars. This country has always been at the forefront of sustainability and green living, and its egalitarian culture is a welcoming place to immerse your family.
Amsterdam, the capital, features established world-class art museums, such as the Rijks Museum, and Van Gogh, and quirky “Dancing Houses” abutting narrow canals flanked with more than 1,000 bridges. However, there is so much more to this country … (flat!) bicycle excursions, romantic windmills, and endless fields of tulips are perfect excursions 30 minutes outside the city outskirts to city exploits.