Switzerland’s pristine landscapes offer the perfect setting for numerous outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for active family trips. The Swiss Alps offer skiing and snowboarding in winter, while summer brings hiking, biking, and paragliding amid breathtaking scenery. Family-friendly resorts like Zermatt and St Moritz cater to all skill levels and ages, providing adventure parks, zip lines, and boat cruises.
Switzerland’s efficient transportation system makes exploring with kids convenient. Its safety, cleanliness, and stunning natural beauty create an unforgettable setting for active family adventures amidst the heart of Europe.
Below, check out our list of the best destinations in Switzerland for active family trips.
1. Zermatt
Nestled in the Swiss Alps, Zermatt is an idyllic destination for active families craving outdoor adventures. Surrounded by majestic peaks, including the iconic Matterhorn, it offers activities tailored to families seeking active holidays.
For families keen on skiing and snowboarding, Zermatt boasts extensive slopes catering to all skill levels and top-notch ski schools offering lessons for children. During summer, hiking trails abound in Zermatt, winding through lush alpine meadows and offering breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains. Families can embark on guided hiking excursions, discovering hidden lakes, charming hamlets, and diverse wildlife.
Adventurous families can also indulge in mountain biking excursions along scenic trails, paragliding flights offering bird’s-eye views of the Alps, or thrilling experiences like summer skiing on the glacier. Families who prefer a more relaxed pace can enjoy picnics amidst stunning landscapes, scenic strolls through Zermatt’s car-free village centre, or refreshing dips in alpine lakes.
The best part about choosing Zermatt for your family holidays is it offers a range of family-friendly accommodations and amenities. Stay in a catered luxury Swiss chalet including playgrounds, swimming pools, and adventure parks, ensuring that children of all ages find joy in the alpine paradise.
2. Les Crosets
Les Crosets is a dream destination for families seeking outdoor adventures in Switzerland. This charming alpine village offers a perfect blend of breathtaking scenery and exhilarating activities, making it an ideal spot for an active holiday.
During winter, Les Crosets transforms into a winter wonderland, with access to the expansive Portes du Soleil ski area. Families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports on slopes catered to all skill levels. Children can enrol in ski schools or partake in fun-filled snow activities like snowshoeing and tobogganing.
In the summer, Les Crosets reveals its lush landscapes, inviting families to explore its network of hiking trails. From leisurely walks to challenging hikes, there’s something for every family member amidst the picturesque mountain scenery. Families can embark on guided nature walks, discover local flora and fauna, or join guided mountain biking excursions along scenic routes.
For those seeking adrenaline-fueled adventures, Les Crosets offers opportunities for paragliding, rock climbing, and via ferrata experiences. Families can also try their hand at summer tobogganing or enjoy picnics by alpine lakes while soaking in the stunning scenery.
3. St Moritz
Another destination for families who relish outdoor adventures amidst the breathtaking Swiss alpine landscapes is St. Moritz. Nestled in the Engadin Valley, this iconic resort town offers outdoor activities that cater to families seeking exhilarating experiences in both winter and summer.
During winter, St. Moritz transforms into a winter wonderland, offering world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities across its pristine slopes. Families can explore vast ski areas suitable for all skill levels, with dedicated children’s zones and ski schools ensuring young ones have a safe and enjoyable experience on the snow. Additionally, families can partake in thrilling activities such as snowshoeing, ice skating, and tobogganing, adding to the excitement of their alpine holiday.
When summer comes, St. Moritz unveils its natural beauty, inviting families to explore its extensive hiking and mountain biking trails. From scenic strolls around sparkling lakes to challenging alpine hikes, there’s an adventure for everyone.
Families can further enhance their kid’s experience by enrolling them in international summer camps held amidst stunning landscapes. These camps not only provide a fun-filled and educational environment for kids but also offer a unique opportunity for cultural exchange. Additionally, while parents explore the scenic surroundings, their children can partake in enriching activities, forging new friendships and creating lasting memories. Beyond the mountains,
Families can also enjoy water sports on the Engadin’s pristine lakes, including sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding, or embark on scenic train rides through the region’s picturesque landscapes. A great idea for the kids is to
Moreover, St. Moritz offers a wealth of family-friendly amenities, including adventure parks, playgrounds, and cultural attractions, ensuring that families have a memorable and fulfilling active holiday amidst the stunning surroundings of the Swiss Alps.
4. Saas-Fee
Saas-Fee is another breathtaking destination in the Swiss Alps that makes a perfect haven for families seeking outdoor adventures amidst stunning alpine scenery. Renowned as the “Pearl of the Alps,” Saas-Fee offers activities that cater to families all year round.
Saas-Fee transforms into a winter wonderland in winter, making it a prime destination for families seeking winter sports. It boasts pristine slopes suitable for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. Families can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other snow sports in a safe and family-friendly environment. Children can enrol in ski schools or explore the dedicated snow parks, ensuring memorable experiences on the slopes.
In summer, Saas-Fee reveals its natural beauty, inviting families to explore its extensive hiking trails that wind through lush forests, alpine meadows, and glacier landscapes. Families can discover hidden gems on guided hikes, such as crystal-clear mountain lakes and cascading waterfalls.
In addition, Saas-Fee offers a range of adrenaline-pumping activities for thrill-seeking families, including rock climbing and thrilling zip lines, providing unforgettable experiences amidst the stunning alpine scenery.
5. Geneva
Geneva is another destination in Switzerland that offers families outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for families seeking active family trips. Situated on the shores of Lake Geneva and surrounded by the stunning Alps, Geneva provides a picturesque backdrop for families to explore and enjoy various outdoor activities.
Begin by exploring the scenic lakeside promenades and parks, perfect for leisurely walks, picnics, and bike rides. The pristine waters of Lake Geneva also offer opportunities for swimming, sailing, and paddle boarding during the summer months, providing refreshing escapades for families seeking aquatic adventures.
For families keen on hiking and mountain exploration, Geneva serves as a gateway to the nearby Jura Mountains and the Alps. Families can embark on scenic hikes along well-marked trails, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and opportunities to discover charming alpine villages and hidden gems.
