What to Do:
What to Do:
See the Top of the World
INTERLAKEN, SWITZERLAND
Even with FaceTime, it’ s harder than ever to connect across generations. But the next chapter of childhood doesn’ t have to happen on screen— it could just as well happen on trails, lakes or even the tops of mountains. Might we suggest Switzerland? Interlaken is one of Europe’ s favorite destinations for active travel, especially for multigenerational families who want big scenery with built-in infrastructure. Set between Lake Thun and Lake Brienz and fringed by the breathtaking Swiss Alps, it acts as an outdoor adventure hub with trains, trails and gondolas that make movement safe and easy for everyone, even grandma and grandpa. Here, outdoor thrills are balanced by Swiss efficiency, cozy villages and easy recovery days by the lake.
What to Do:
• Take scenic lifts to places like Mürren or Grindelwald for gentle walks with dramatic views.
• Climb thrilling via ferrata routes or hike alpine trails serviced by mountain rail access.
• Go lake kayaking, raft glacier-fed rivers or bike lakeside paths and valley routes.
Search for the Supernatural
IN ICELAND
If the finale of your favorite Netflix show( no spoilers!) has you dreaming of a land with at least three waterfalls, Iceland is your answer. From glowing blue glaciers to bubbling mud pots, Iceland’ s dramatic landscapes are truly otherworldly— and we’ re not just talking optics. This is a country known for centuries-old sagas involving elves, trolls, spirits and magic.
These stories are not treated as children’ s tales, but as explanations for the natural world, and many Icelanders today still won’ t dismiss them. Some construction projects have even been rerouted to avoid“ elf habitats”— so don’ t expect luxury resorts and lazy rivers. Iceland is for adventures! If you really want to explore these mystical lands, you’ ll have lace up your hiking boots or hop on a bike.
Expert Tip
For family bike touring, consider e-bikes— they make hills easier, extend range and help everyone stay together.
What to Do:
• Rent a bike with a guide— many shops offer both short and multi-day routes for all ages.
• Ride along scenic coastal roads, stopping for a dip in natural hot springs along the way.
• Hike to hidden caves, prismatic waterfalls and strange lava fields while hearing about the mythical creatures believed to reside there.
78 · CONNECTIONS 2026