Neverland is actually a playground in Basel, Switzerland

Right now we are in Basel, one of Switzerland’s largest cities.  It is centrally located in the heart of Europe, with both Germany and France within walking distance or a short tram ride away there are many opportunities for family fun day trips, learning travel experiences, and of course a castle or two. If you are thinking about traveling here do the suggested things to do, take a boat ride on the Rhein visit the Zoo, take in a castle ruin or local Schloss. 



However, some of the best things for kids are hidden within the local landscape of Basel.  Almost by accident we discovered the Robi Daronga Spielplatz. 

 From the website it might not look like it would be worth your time and deciphering the Swiss German language isn’t easy.  But don’t be fooled; it is an absolute Neverland for children of all ages. 

The Robi parks are sponsored by the city and by a once a year donation of 60 CHF by local families.  It’s open every afternoon and has festivals to celebrate the seasons and holidays, clean bathrooms, an indoor play area with a complete kitchen, a woodworking shop, an instrument barn to try your hand at being in the band and perhaps most importantly it’s designed by kids for kids.  


The staff will help the children design, construct, and paint new structures in the forest to promote play.  When visiting with one staff member, he explained the concept to me like this; “it’s just for play.  School is very rigid and here children can explore their own imagination.”  My children have brushed the live Hogs,helped to paint the toy shed, and tried out a pogo stick for the first time.  It’s no wonder that we go back anytime we’ve got an hour or two to spare.  Next week, we will attend the first annual Halloween party.