The kids are off from school and summer vacation time is entering full swing. While adults exploring Europe might swoon over its historical sites and cultural riches, a younger generation may want for nothing more than space to play and thrills to be had. Here are some ideas for adventurous and close-to-nature experiences this summer:

Mountain coasters: The German term “sommerrodelbahn” refers to a sledding track or toboggan run built into the contours of a steep hill or mountainside that can be used without benefit of snow or ice. After riding a chairlift or being towed uphill in the very contraption one goes down in, chutes or rails carry carry riders swiftly downwards, reaching speeds of up to 25 miles per hour as they go.

Germany’s longest such attraction, the Hasenhorn Coaster, is found in the Black Forest town of Todtnau. The nearly two-mile descent features enough bends and tummy-twisting drops to give even grown-ups a thrill. The attraction remains open year-round. Adults pay 14.50 euros for the up-and-down trip; a single ride for children ages 4 through 15 costs 12.50 euros. Online: hasenhorn-rodelbahn.de

Similar attractions can be found throughout Germany; other ones close to U.S. bases include the Sommerrodelbahn in Garmisch-Partenkirchen or the Eifel-Coaster Sommerrodelbahn in Gondorf, close to Spangdahlem. Those based in the United Kingdom have a single option available to them; the Fforest Coaster in Betws-y-Coed, Wales. The alpine coaster is just one of many thrills available at this particular location of the recreational facility known as Zip World; other possible experiences include ziplines, a freefall or taking a turn on a massive, five-passenger swing. Online: zipworld.co.uk

Ziplines: While acrophobics would rather give a miss to the Hirschgrund Zipline Area in Germany’s Black Forest region, thrill-seekers will revel in this park built into the stunning natural landscape of the Kinzig Valley. Here, brave adventurers make their way along a circular route leading high above slopes and valleys, hills and streams. Each of the seven ziplines to be traversed has its own particular charm and character, but the biggest adrenaline kick is promised by the ride along the Gründlebahn. Towering 270 feet about ground and stretching a third of a mile long, the zipline is rated by many as the best single ride in the country. A trip along the parcourse accompanied by a guide (the only way to do it) costs 59 euros adults and 52 euros for youth ages 12-16. Reservations are essential. Online: hirschgrund-zipline.de

One of the world’s fastest ziplines can be found in Wales. Velocity 2, embedded in Penrhyn Quarry in Snowdonia, allows its riders to achieve speeds of up to 100 miles per hour along its nearly mile-long course. The attraction’s four parallel lines allow friends and family to experience the adrenaline rush simultaneously. A ride on Velocity 2 costs from 92 UK pounds ($126).

Those based in Italy can make way to the Dolomites for their high-flying adventures. The Adrenaline X-Treme Adventures park in San Vigilio di Marebbe is home to a series of seven ziplines that stretch over a combined distance of some two miles. At one point, the void beneath one’s feet is roughly the equivalent in height to a 30-story building. Riders rave about not only the experience but the stunning surroundings. A guided adventure along the course costs 89 euros. Online: adrenalineadventures.it/en

Via Ferrata: A via ferrata, or “iron road” in Italian, is a fixed climbing route through mountainous terrain. Steel cables, ladders and other fixtures allow newbies to get a taste of the thrills experienced by more seasoned climbers. The use of helmets, clips and harnesses greatly reduces the chance of accidents and injury. Germany-based adventurers could opt for a trek along the Calmont Klettersteig, which passes through the Mosel Valley, home to some of the steepest vineyards in Europe. While experienced hikers note this two-mile route is nothing like the via ferratas found in mighty mountain ranges such as the Alps, any walkers wishing to take on this particular hike should be sure of foot and not prone to dizziness. At just a half-hour’s driving distance from the Geierlay Suspension Bridge, the two attractions would combine nicely as a fun-packed and inexpensive day out. Online: tinyurl.com/5b7z8c5d

Canyoning: The jumping, rappelling and climbing demanded by the sport of canyoning makes this activity the most active of our options. The LOLGarda outdoor activity provider uses northern Italy’s Lake Garda and other smaller lakes such as Ledro, Idro and Tenno as its playgrounds. With wetsuits, footwear and a waterproof case provided by the outfitter, adventurers are led through a course along one of the rivers that serve as feeders to the lakes. A four-hour trek along the Rio Nero costs 75 euros per participant. Online: lol-garda.it/en

Canyoning can also be enjoyed in the environs of Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Canyoning-Tour is a provider offering three different tours. The “Who Made You” tour featuring slides, jumps and abseiling provides beginners with an introduction to the sport. A four to five-hour tour including use of all necessary equipment goes for 109 euros. Tours for more advanced participants are also available. Online: canyoning-tour.de