If your family is looking for more than just lounging by a pool, you’re in the right place. These active getaways are all about movement, laughter, exploring together and discovering new landscapes as a team.
Whether your kids want to ski down slopes, pedal through countryside, hike in wild terrain or surf waves at sunset, there’s a destination here that offers both fun and fresh air.
Here are five destinations where the whole family can get stuck in, from gentle to thrilling and everything in between. So, grab your gear, your sense of adventure and maybe a towel for the occasional splash.
New Zealand
Often top of the bucket list for a reason, New Zealand’s scenery is dramatic, varied and made for moving together. From lakes and mountains to coastal trails and jet-boats, your family can mix hiking, biking, paddling and sheer wonder.
You might cycle around a lake, jump on a boat across fjords, trek through native bush and finish with a BBQ beside a turquoise river. The beauty is it’s built for all ages: enough action for older kids, enough “wow” moments for younger ones, and enough rest stops for Mum and Dad. If you want an active getaway that becomes a story you’ll tell for years, this is it.
Courchevel 1850, France
The alpine village of Courchevel 1850 snow resort is more than a luxury stop; it’s a full-on playground for families who like to be on the move. From beginner slopes where little ones first push off to gentle green runs perfect for building confidence, to more adventurous terrain for teens, you’ll find it all.
The resort doesn’t just stop at skiing: there’s tobogganing, night skiing, husky rides and indoor water fun in the Aquamotion centre. Staying in Courchevel 1850 means you’re immersed in crisp mountain air, fir-tree forests and fun-filled days, and evenings winding down with fondue or family games by the fire. It’s a place where everyone, from the youngest to the grandparents, can find their pace and share exciting new terrain.
Costa Rica
Swap snow and Alps for lush rainforest, volcano views and Pacific beach time. Costa Rica brings the whole family together for adventure and nature in one. You’ll hike through the jungle, spot colourful birds and monkeys, maybe paddle in a calm river and finish the day watching the sunset on the beach.
It’s a place where teens can zipline and younger kids can splash about while everyone still shares a moment watching sloths or iguanas. Active doesn’t mean exhausting. You’ll find a rhythm: explore, breathe, rest, repeat. For families who want terrain, creatures and a bit of splash-down fun, Costa Rica hits the sweet spot.
Provence, France
When you think of sun-drenched vineyards and gentle hills, you might not immediately think “active family holiday”. But that’s exactly what Provence offers with a twist.
For families who like to cycle, this region is ideal for the best cycling holidays in France. Imagine pedalling through lavender-scented air, stopping in a village for ice cream, then perhaps hiking a forest trail or canoeing down a river as a team. Mix that with picnics, swims in hidden lakes and lazy afternoons in a Provençal village square, and you’ve got a balanced blend of activity and downtime.
It’s active, yes, but relaxed enough for younger ones and for kicking back afterwards too.
Namibia
For something a bit different, such as wide open skies, red dunes, wildlife sightings and a sense of space, Namibia offers an active holiday for families who like exploring off the beaten track.
Think safari drives in Etosha, sand-boarding down dunes, riding camels, nature walks and stargazing like you’ve never done before. It’s less about resorts and more about shared adventure.
The kids will remember the elephant tracks in sand, the heat of the sun on red earth and the quiet of the bush at sunset. For a family who wants to combine activity with something a little wild, Namibia offers a memory-making backdrop.
Summary
In each of these five destinations, you’ll find something your whole family can try, cherish and talk about long after you’re back home. Whether it’s skiing together in Courchevel 1850, pedalling through Provence, jungle trekking in Costa Rica, heading full-on in New Zealand or embracing desert adventure in Namibia, you’re doing holidays differently: together, active and immersive.
No screens dominating the day, just motion, nature, laughter and shared stories. Pick your pace, pick your style, and prepare for a holiday where every family member leaves with a grin and unforgettable memories.
