Our top 10 family vacations in Europe

“We had a brilliant vacation in Granada. The food and hospitality were excellent and our hosts were intimately familiar with the language, locality, food, history and culture. The hotel is as off the beaten track as one could imagine and is in a tranquil and scenic setting. There is lots to see and do and the hotel proposes a variety of activities through local experts.” – David Graham

“As a single Mum of an 11 year old, I was a bit nervous to be staying in a rural hotel as I have always opted for the "safe" option staying in a hotel with kids club and on site entertainment etc, but in Granada we felt welcomed from day one! I also wanted my son to experience the outdoors, away from computer games and TV, and I was not disappointed. The kayaking was amazing, with my son leading the way up front. He was a little dubious of the horse riding at first, but he absolutely loved it! My son had the best time and didn't want to come home and has already decided on the activities he wants to do "next time we go" ! A fantastic vacation all round. Thankyou!!” – Tracey Davies

“As a three generation family this vacation, couple in their 60s plus our daughter and her 5 year old granddaughter, the Algarve was perfect.” – Jacqueline Precey

“The Algarve was totally relaxing, perfect for a couple or a family alike. Small children are well catered for with very friendly and helpful hosts. You will become part of their family for the week and feel that you are in your own home.” – Sian Mitchell

“We had a great week - perfect for families who want to do something active everyday, meet lots of like-minded people, and explore a beautiful, untouristy part of Croatia.” – Jane Irving

“Be prepared for an ambivalent relationship with your snowsuit and other protective clothing, gloves, helmets etc in Finnish Lapland. Taking them on and off takes time and they feel clumsy and uncomfortable at times – know that you will grow to LOVE them once you realise you can only enjoy the snow and the adventurous activities if you are wearing them. 10 mins without those layers will convince you. This can be a tough lesson for small children initially.” – Liz Garrett

“If you are active and want a well planned mix of cycling, kayaking and walking in the depths of the Swedish countryside then go for it. A good vacation for families with teenagers.” – Mike Platten

“Plan to eat with everyone in the evenings. It is a lovely friendly atmosphere with different families swopping suggestions and tips on the local activities in Granada, and the food is fantastic. The only tricky bit is how late dinner is for UK children as it usually started 8.45-9pm which is a stretch when bedtime is usually 7.30-8pm. It was worth it though and surprising how quickly they adapt.” – Tanya Hayes

“Romania was wonderful – we did four nights, which I'd recommend as a minimum as there is so much to see. Children were well catered for – ours were two and four and loved all the food and the adventures! (we didn't take a pushchair though, just a rucksack to carry the youngest and that was a good decision as it meant we could hike in the forests etc.)” – Susanna Booth

“This is far and away the best family vacation we've had in years. Romania is a fascinating corner of the world neither my husband or I had ever been to. We enjoyed learning about the area from our guides whilst having the pleasure of watching our children run wild about us in sunshine and fresh air!” – David Smith