Backroads Family Travel Boom Accelerates as Seven Global Destinations Attract Winter Holidaymakers

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Seven destinations Backroads of California, USA Backroads has seen almost a 20% increase in family holiday bookings for 2026 versus 2025, reflecting a demand for active holidays that unite kids, adults and grandparents. The luxury adventure travel company has chosen seven locations for winter escapes, from Costa Rica and Argentina to Hawaii, Vietnam, Iceland, California and Canada. Its newest holiday schedule mixes outdoor pursuits, cultural adventures and adaptable itineraries to suit every generation.

Meanwhile, the firm is seeing promising early bookings for 2027, including for child-orientated and teen holidays. This indicates the desire for shared travel experiences among families remains strong, away from traditional festive seasons.

For those heading for a winter break, some places promise tropical beaches and animal encounters, while for others there are glaciers, frozen wilderness and snow-capped peaks.

Why Are Multigenerational Family Adventure Holidays Gaining Popularity in 2026

Multigenerational travel allows relatives of different ages to explore destinations together without following identical activity schedules. Backroads structures its family itineraries around this flexibility, helping participants select experiences that match their interests, fitness and confidence.

Its Kids & Teens programmes introduce age-appropriate activities under dedicated adventure leaders. Meanwhile, adults can explore independently or participate in group experiences.

Families travelling with teenagers and young adults can choose separate programmes that encourage interaction with other families.

Backroads also coordinates accommodation, transport, meals and scheduled activities. This arrangement reduces the planning burden for larger family groups.

Travellers should compare daily activity requirements before booking. Older relatives may prefer shorter walking routes, while younger participants might enjoy more demanding cycling or hiking excursions.

The company says its programmes offer alternative activity levels, allowing family members to reunite after pursuing different experiences.

Seven Winter 2026 Destinations Offering Unforgettable Family Adventures

Costa Rica: Tropical Wildlife, Surfing and Rainforest Exploration

Costa Rica offers warm-weather adventures for families who prefer tropical landscapes. Backroads highlights surfing, wildlife observation, river rafting and volcanic scenery among its activities.

Travellers can explore the Arenal region, search for sloths and monkeys, and experience the Savegre River. Costa Rica’s official tourism website also identifies accessible rainforest trails around La Fortuna, where families can observe native wildlife.

Argentina: Patagonia’s Lakes and Summer Landscapes

Argentina’s Patagonia Lake District provides an alternative to northern hemisphere winter conditions. December through February brings summer to the region, creating opportunities for outdoor exploration.

Backroads features kayaking, horseback riding, mountain hiking and regional cooking experiences. Families can discover Patagonian landscapes while learning traditional culinary skills, including preparing empanadas.

Hawaii: Volcanic Landscapes and Coastal Adventures

Hawaii’s Big Island combines geological exploration with outdoor recreation. Families can cycle along coastal routes, kayak, snorkel and discover volcanic terrain.

The US National Park Service identifies Nāhuku, also called Thurston Lava Tube, as a notable attraction within Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. Travellers should check visitor information and trail conditions before exploring.

Vietnam: Cultural Discovery and Scenic Cycling

Vietnam offers families a combination of cultural experiences and outdoor activities. Backroads itineraries include cycling through agricultural landscapes, exploring local markets and travelling through the Mekong Delta.

Families can also discover Hoi An’s historic streets and cruise through Ha Long Bay, where limestone formations create dramatic coastal scenery.

Iceland: Ice Caves and Northern Lights

Iceland attracts families seeking distinctive winter landscapes. Backroads promotes glacier excursions, ice cave exploration and visits to frozen waterfalls.

Travellers may also experience the northern lights when atmospheric conditions permit. Families should prepare for cold temperatures, limited daylight and changing weather.

California: Santa Barbara and the Channel Islands

Santa Barbara and California’s Channel Islands offer coastal adventures without the extreme cold associated with mountain destinations.

Backroads features kayaking around Santa Cruz Island, cycling through coastal landscapes and exploring areas around Los Padres National Forest.

Families can combine outdoor recreation with comfortable accommodation and opportunities to discover California’s natural environment.

Canada: Snow Adventures in the Rocky Mountains

Canada’s Rocky Mountains provide traditional winter experiences, including snowshoeing, ice skating and forest exploration.

Backroads highlights activities around Banff and Lake Louise, alongside opportunities to discover Kootenay National Park.

Parks Canada advises visitors to check winter trail conditions, avalanche forecasts and ice safety before travelling.

What Should Families Consider Before Booking Winter Adventure Holidays?

Travellers should evaluate activity difficulty, destination climate, accommodation arrangements and the needs of every family member.

Families travelling with younger children should confirm minimum ages for excursions. Groups with older relatives should review walking distances, terrain and available alternatives.

Winter conditions also differ considerably between destinations. Patagonia experiences summer during the northern hemisphere’s winter, while Iceland and Canada require suitable cold-weather clothing.

Travellers should also confirm travel insurance coverage, entry requirements, medical considerations and cancellation conditions before departure.

How Can Families Plan Flexible Adventure Holidays for 2027

Bookings to Backroads so far in 2027 indicate that we will again see a strong demand for family adventure travel with families and youth.

The firm provides Gift Certificates that can be redeemed by families to participate in cycling, walking, hiking and multi-activity holidays. Backroads states that these certificates are valid for as long as they wish to use them.

Want to Have More Control over Group Tours The third option that families can consider if they want some flexibility is private tour itineraries. https://www.backroads.com/

Please contact the operator for the most up to date departure dates, prices, availability and programme inclusions before booking.