6 Best Self-Guided Trips for Families

Bask in all-year-round sunshine on the Canary Islands of Tenerife and La Gomera. From ascending the iconic Volcano El Teide to crossing by ferry to the next island and journeying into the enchanting cloud forest of Garajonay National Park, the whole family will enjoy this easy-moderate graded self-guided walking adventure. Receive a warm welcome in rural Canarian villages and feast on delicious Spanish tapas in friendly cafes. 

Cycle, surf and swim to your heart's content on this self-guided cycling tour along Portugal's wild west coast. You'll never be too far from the sea as you cycle from the Algarve to Alentejo along quiet tracks and cycle paths, stopping for fresh seafood lunches in quaint waterfront villages along the way. Teenagers will love this easy-going adventure and, if they have the energy to spare, there are opportunities to play in the ocean around every corner.

If you're keen for an active adventure holiday but have a toddler in tow, this self-guided walking tour along the coastal footpaths of Ligurian Riviera is a great choice. With walks averaging 11km per day and the option to catch a local bus or train to shorten the routes, carrying toddlers in a child carrier is feasible on this five-day break. Feel a world away from busy home life as you stroll along craggy cliffs lapped by the azure-blue sea, uncover lush vineyards and twisted olive groves, and stop for swims in secluded sandy coves.