Evie, aged 11, went on an exciting and fun-filled Spanish adventure last year with her dad Steve, from the KE office. We asked them both to share their views and thoughts of their family holiday of On the Tapas Trail - Family Active Holiday. 

Holidaying in Picos de Europa in Spain with Evie was an unforgettable experience for me. It was my first organised group adventure with her and in turn, our first adventure without Mum as part of our family dynamic. Northern Spain was the perfect destination for our week of fun and a truly amazing location for being out in the Spanish sun!

We kayaked, went canyoning, cycled and trekked in the mountains. On the optional day Evie chose horse riding which was brilliant, even though our horses were always lagging behind everyone elses. I was a bit worried about the canyoning because I don’t like being out of my depth in water, but the instructor we had was great and put me at my ease. I felt a real sense of achievement having taken part – definitely a highlight of this trip for me. We both had a great time together and it was a wonderful bonding experience. We have some very special memories and it’s a trip that will stay with me forever…Evie gave it a ten out of ten – high praise indeed for an 11 year old.

My name is Evie and last August, me and my dad went on the On the Tapas Trail – Family Active Holiday to Northern Spain. We met lots of new people and I made new friends and enjoyed all of the fun activities the trip included.

My favourite activities were the optional horse riding and the canyoning – I have done ghyll scrambling in the Lake District where we live, but this was more intense and loads of fun. We got to swim in clear cool pools, jumping or abseiling off small waterfalls and sliding down smooth rocks in to the water.

We also did kayaking, cycling and a mini-trek to a mountain hut in the mountains, where we stayed overnight.

It was very different going abroad with only my dad because usually we go on holiday with my mum too, but it was cool being away with just one parent and having time together. The other kids (and parents) on the trip were really nice. We all got on really well together. Overall, I really enjoyed going on this holiday and would love to do another one in the near future!

1. What did you like most about being on holiday with other families?

I couldn’t believe how quickly the families got to know each other and it was great to chat with the other parents about their travelling adventures with their kids.

2. Did you get much free time to relax?

There was plenty of downtime as most activities were in the morning, so we were back at the hotel by mid-afternoon. There was plenty of time to spend in the pool, shopping or chilling out with a game of cards.

3. What was the most special moment about being in the Picos with Evie?

Overall being on a trip just as dad and daughter was special and we had a lot of fun together.

4. What advice would you give other parents if they are considering a KE family holiday?

Just do it! Pick a trip that ticks the boxes in terms of activity and accommodation so that you aren’t out of your comfort zone. It is a fantastic experience going on an organised holiday and meeting other likeminded families.

1. What was your favourite food on holiday?

I did try the local food and we had choices of different tapas but there were child friendly meals too – I had spaghetti bolognese a few times and it was the best!

2. What was your most memorable moment with your dad?

The horse riding day was great and me and my dad were on horses at the back of the group – my dad told me a joke and I nearly fell off my horse! Also the kayaking day was so much fun – we got really wet at times but we didn’t care!

3. Which hotel did you like the most and why?

The hotel with the pool – it was so good to spend time in the pool with the other kids after the day’s activities.

4. What would you say to other parents wanting to take their children on a KE family holiday?

We had so much fun stuff to do. I had a great time and dad loved it. Definitely take your kids ….I loved it - it was 10 out of 10.