Family Holiday in Belgium: Tips for a Great Family Break
A holiday with children takes a bit of extra planning. Where do you find a holiday home that suits everyone? Which region has the most activities for the little ones? And what about teenagers? Here is an honest overview of the best options for a successful family holiday in Belgium.
For a family holiday in Belgium, the Ardennes and the Belgian Coast are the most popular destinations. Look for a holiday home with an enclosed garden, play area and swimming pool. Choose a property that is centrally located near activities so you do not spend too long in the car.
What to look for in a child-friendly holiday home?
Not every holiday home is equally suitable for families with children. When searching for the ideal home, there are a number of things that make the stay more enjoyable for both parents and children. An enclosed garden so toddlers cannot wander onto the road. A playground or trampoline in the garden makes long afternoons much easier to fill. Safe stairs and no dangerous open mezzanines are also important points for families with young children.
Practically speaking, you also need a fully equipped kitchen, as you will not want to eat out every evening with children. A washing machine is not an unnecessary luxury. And enough bedrooms so parents can truly rest. A holiday home with a separate children's bedroom or bunk beds makes it extra fun for the kids.
The Ardennes: adventure for the whole family
The Ardennes score highly as a family destination. The mix of nature, adventure and charming villages keeps both children and parents happy. Children can burn off energy in the woods, by rivers and on adventure playgrounds. And there are plenty of quiet moments for parents.
Activities for families in the Ardennes:
- Kayaking on the Lesse or Ourthe: accessible for children from age 6. Most kayak hire companies offer family rates and suitable kayaks.
- Caves of Han-sur-Lesse: the impressive stalactites and stalagmites fascinate children of all ages.
- Walibi Belgium: the theme park is a must for families with children aged 8 and over.
- Luge in La Roche: a short but thrilling attraction that everyone enjoys.
- Family-friendly walking routes: there are specific children's trails with play elements along the way.
The Belgian Coast: classic and child-friendly
The Belgian Coast has been a beloved holiday destination for families for generations. The beach is the perfect playground for children. Building sandcastles, counting waves and exploring the tideline keeps young children busy for hours. The promenade offers ice cream, chips and plenty of entertainment for older children.
On the coast, it is better to choose a holiday home or apartment within walking distance of the beach. Trekking to the beach every time with a pushchair and beach toys quickly becomes tiring. Coastal towns such as Wenduine, De Haan and Nieuwpoort are quieter than Knokke or Blankenberge and lend themselves better to a family holiday.
Holiday homes with a swimming pool for children
A holiday home with a swimming pool is the ultimate holiday for children. A private pool offers the freedom to swim whenever you like, without crowds or opening hours. Do check the depth of the pool and whether there is a fence if you are travelling with young children. Some owners also offer inflatable options for toddlers in the shallow section.
A covered or heated pool is an advantage when travelling outside the high season. The Ardennes and Kempen have beautiful holiday homes with an indoor pool, so even a rainy day can be fun for the children.
Practical tips for a successful family holiday
- Book a home with a garden: a safe enclosed garden gives children space to play and gives parents peace of mind.
- Plan activities but do not force them: children also simply need free time. Too much planning can backfire.
- Bring familiar items: a favourite toy or cuddly animal makes the transition to an unfamiliar environment easier for young children.
- Ask about children's equipment: many owners have a cot, high chair and toys available. Ask in advance so you do not carry unnecessary luggage.
- Choose the right region for the age group: for toddlers, the beach or quiet countryside is better. Teenagers benefit more from a destination with adventure and more stimulation.
Family holiday in Belgium: no need to travel far
A successful family holiday does not have to be far away. Belgium offers a surprising amount for families. From the rugged nature of the Ardennes to the wide beach on the coast, from the charming villages of the Flemish Ardennes to the vast heathland of the Kempen. Choose a holiday home that suits the age and interests of your children, and you are guaranteed a great holiday.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best regions for a family holiday in Belgium?
The Ardennes are a classic: forests, rivers, castles and adventure parks. The Belgian Coast is ideal for young children thanks to its wide, safe beaches. The Kempen has vast nature playgrounds and cycling paths. For a day in the city, Brussels and Ghent are perfect options.
Which holiday homes are suitable for families with young children?
Look for homes with an enclosed garden, multiple bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen and toys. On vakantiewoningen-in-belgie.be you can filter on child-friendly homes. Single-storey homes are more practical with pushchairs.
What are good activities with children in the Ardennes?
Kayaking on the Ourthe or Lesse (from age 6), forest adventure parks, the caves of Han-sur-Lesse, the Wildpark Ardenne in Coo and riverside walks are popular. On rainy days, the caves and indoor play areas are a good option.
How far is it to the Ardennes for a weekend away with children?
The Ardennes are centrally located: from Brussels it is 1.5 hours to La Roche, from Antwerp 2 hours, from Ghent 2 hours. For Dutch families, the Northern Ardennes can be reached in 2 to 3 hours from the Randstad.
Looking for a child-friendly holiday home?
Browse our selection of holiday homes with garden, play area and swimming pool. Ideal for families with children of all ages.
View child-friendly holiday homes
