Best Farmstay Family Holidays in Europe

Lo-fi, low-cost (in most cases) and eco-friendly – the very essence of sustainable and local travel – farm-stays are proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to have a fantastic family holiday or break. Staying on a farm is an especially good option for those with very young kids, who adore being able to pet and feed – and perhaps even milk – resident animals and to run free in the fresh air.

Feather Down Farms are hugely popular in the UK. An alternative in Italy is an agriturismo, combining farming with hospitality amidst beautiful landscapes.

Farm-stays may consist of cottages converted from barns and other old agricultural buildings or offer ‘glamping’ accommodation such as safari-style tents and yurts. At many, guests have the option of helping with farm tasks, from animal feeding to egg collecting, and can cook home-grown produce from on-site honesty shops.