A family vacation is a perfect time to get a super dose of nature in for you and your children. While we think nature belongs on the schedule every day and in constant doses, vacations offer a chance to completely unplug from technology and the demands of life and just tune in to your surroundings.
But you don't have to be too far off from civilization to experience a nature-filled getaway with your kids. Many cities around the world get the balance of culture and nature right. They offer all of the conveniences of city living, with the bonus of breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and many opportunities for outdoor recreation. Some even offer towering mountain ranges or pristine beaches! A perfect blend of urban conveniences and natural wonders ensuring you and your family will never be at a loss for things to do!
Now you just have to decide where to go! To make the decision easier, here are some of the best cities for nature-loving families:
- Seattle, Washington, USA
Seattle is a city that is surrounded by natural beauty and boasts a thriving outdoor culture. The city is located near the Cascade Range and Olympic Mountains, offering access to spectacular hiking, skiing, and snowboarding. Visitors can also explore the iconic Puget Sound and visit nearby islands to watch for whales, seals, and other marine life.
- Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver is known for its mild climate and stunning natural scenery. The city is surrounded by mountains and the Pacific Ocean, offering a diverse range of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowboarding, hiking, and water sports. In the city itself, visitors can explore Stanley Park, a massive urban park with towering trees, scenic views, and numerous trails for hiking and biking.
- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Rio de Janeiro is a city that is surrounded by lush tropical forests and pristine beaches. The city is famous for its iconic Christ the Redeemer statue and Sugarloaf Mountain, which offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding coastline. The nearby Tijuca National Park is a large urban forest that is home to an array of wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and other tropical species.
- Sydney, Australia
Sydney is a city that is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic Sydney Harbour, the Blue Mountains, and numerous beaches. The city is known for its world-famous surf culture, and visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including swimming, surfing, and kayaking. The nearby Royal National Park is a popular destination for hiking and camping, offering scenic views of the surrounding landscape.
- Chiang Mai, Thailand
Chiang Mai is a city in northern Thailand that is surrounded by lush forests, rolling hills, and ancient temples. The city is a hub for eco-tourism and offers a range of outdoor activities, including trekking, elephant riding, and rafting. Visitors can also explore the nearby Doi Inthanon National Park, which is home to an array of wildlife, including rare bird species and monkeys.
- Reykjavik, Iceland
Reykjavik is a city that is located on the edge of the Arctic Circle and is surrounded by spectacular natural landscapes. The city is known for its geothermal hot springs, glaciers, and abundant wildlife, including whales, seals, and birds. Visitors can explore the nearby Thingvellir National Park, a stunning landscape of glaciers, lakes, and mountains, and go on whale watching tours to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
- Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town is a city that is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, including the iconic Table Mountain, the Cape of Good Hope, and the rugged coastline of the Western Cape. The city is a hub for outdoor recreation and offers a range of activities, including hiking, surfing, and wildlife watching. Visitors can also explore the nearby Cape Point Nature Reserve, which is home to an array of wildlife, including baboons, ostriches, and other species.
Any of these cities offers nature-loving families the conveniences of urban life and astounding natural wonders. Whether you prefer mountain hiking, beachcombing, or wildlife watching, each of these cities has something special to offer. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready to immerse your family in the beauty of nature.
