Europe: secret family escapes

Come the summer holiday, locals head in their droves to the Stockholm archipelago leaving the city blissfully free from commuters and crowds. And, as is oft said, Stockholm loves children – it is lively, clean and, as it’s built on 14 islands, ripe for exploring by boat.

Skansen, the world’s oldest open-air museum. Fun and learning merge seamlessly, with staff in period costume and five centuries of historic buildings to be explored. You can also spot Nordic animals in the zoo, including moose, bears, wolves and reindeer.

One of the many parks and playgrounds dotted around the city. The parkleks (adventure playgrounds) have staff on hand to organise activities, free toys to borrow, plus you can buy snacks and – most importantly – coffee.

A day at Gröna Lund, an old-fashioned fairground on the central island of Djurgården. It’s easy to reach and admission prices are reasonable. Take the swing carousel to swoop right over the water.

One of the many cafés, where fika (the Swedish equivalent of a daily coffee break) is almost mandatory. Kids will love the kanelbullar (cinnamon buns).

The boutique Lydmar Hotel, with its picturesque views over the harbour. It’s bang in the city centre, the atmosphere is welcoming, and cots, extra beds and babysitting are all available.

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Menorca has more beaches than Ibiza and Majorca combined and, although it buzzes in July and August, it’s quieter and more family-focussed than its Balearic neighbours. There are clear waters and coves for snorkelling, prehistoric monuments to explore and picturesque coastal villages for a cool drink in the shade.

Little soldiers will love 18th-century Fort Marlborough, at the mouth of Mahon harbour, especially the daily re-enactment battle.

One of the island’s 100 or so beaches, which have clear blue water, swathes of white sand and shallow falls, making the water safe and warm.

A horseback trek along the Cami de Cavalls, a path that encircles the island.

One of the island’s many restaurants. While Menorca’s gastronomy is varied, rich and unique, you also won’t have far to look if your little darlings want pizza or a burger.

The Royal Son Bou Family Club, offers extensive activities in the kids’ club, a children’s buffet, two swimming pools, and is just 100 metres from the beach.

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Once the snow melts, St Moritz becomes the perfect place for children to channel their inner Heidi. Even getting there is fun: St Moritz is best reached by train from Zurich.

The Alpine Cheese Dairy close to the Morteratsch Glacier. Watch traditional Swiss cheese being made, before being able to sample all the delights of the cheese buffet (+41 81 842 62 73).

Well, just about anywhere. St Moritz is nestled in the Engadine Valley, which is known for its stunning walking trails (plenty are suitable for pushchairs – see engadin.stmoritz.ch).

A ride in a horse drawn carriage to take in the scented pine woods, burbling streams, and carpet of Alpine flowers.

Europe’s highest barbecuing point Sass Queder. Take the cable car to Diavolezza then it’s a 40-minute walk. Reservations are essential (+41 81 830 39 00).

The Kempinski Grand Hotel Des Bains, which describes itself as the ‘Gateway to St Moritz’. With its dazzling mountain setting, it won’t fail to impress, whatever your age. It’s five-star all the way with four gourmet restaurants, a second-to-none spa, tennis centre and luxury rooms – there’s even a dentist. Children might prefer the Kids Club, which offers everything from excursions out on the lake and muffin-making to painting and storytelling. Plus there’s babysitting, a children’s à la carte menu, and all the baby paraphernalia you might possibly need.

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Lisbon is positively buzzing right now and is leaping up the World’s Best Cities lists. Go now before it becomes too popular and discover a wealth of activities in the city for children.

The Science Alive Centre in the Pavilion of Knowledge makes learning about physics and science fun.

Monsanto Forest Park is the largest green space in Lisbon, with plenty of shady spots to escape the summer heat. The 10km sq space is a playground not just for nature lovers; there are climbing walls, obstacle courses and even a children’s driving school.

Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the world’s largest aquariums with 25,000 fish, seabirds and mammals in one central tank (the size of four Olympic swimming pools).

Bonjardim specialises in spit-roasted chicken served with chips, which locals like to eat with their hands. (+351 213 427 424).

Four Seasons Hotel Ritz Lisbon. Its central location means easy access around the capital. Nice touches include mini bathrobes, onsite treasure hunts, free nappies, and unlimited use of toys and video games.

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Avoid the crowds in Paris with a trip to Lyon. The third-largest city in France is a historical and gastronomical hub and pedestrian-friendly. What’s not to love when you’ve got the family in tow?

Children can play gladiators at Théâtres Romains de Fourvière which boasts two Roman amphitheatres. The views over the city are superb but it’s a bit of a hike to get there, so hop on the funicular.

Aerial activity park France Adventures will have children climbing ropes, net bridges and skateboarding through the treetops.

Older kids, in particular film buffs, will enjoy the Musée des Miniatures et Cinéma with its collection of miniature objects and sets used in the making of films.

Sébastien Bouillet’s shop-cum-laboratory Chokola. Expect eye-catching displays of macarons, a wall of liquid chocolate and a glass kitchen so you can see the creations being made.

The Novotel Lyon Gerland Musée des Confluences hotel, which is conveniently located in the Lyonbiopôle district – on the banks of the Rhône River – with great access to the city’s tram system. Plus there are family rooms, play areas, child-friendly menus and personalised welcome gift. All in all, little ones will be happy and (perhaps more importantly) you’ll be feeling relaxed.

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