3 Family Chocolate Experiences in Europe

Chocolate tours, offered in several European cities, appeal more to adults than to children, but these chocolate experiences will certainly please younger family members, too. Look for these when traveling in Switzerland, France and even Scotland.

As you might expect, Switzerland has plenty of chocolate museums and factory tours, but one experience is a real hit with kids. They might expect to meet Willy Wonka as they spin the dials and push the buttons in the wacky interactive exhibits in Mastrani Chocolarium in Flawil, Switzerland.

Watch the actual factory machines (not museum reproductions) create and package mouthwatering confections, as you learn all about chocolate. Tasting opportunities include a chocolate fountain, and kids can decorate their own chocolate bar. You can also reserve ahead for a family chocolate workshop.

France is known for premium chocolate brands, often by small producers whose products are highly prized by connoisseurs. One of those is Castelain in Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This town in Provence is best known for legendary wine, but it’s a destination for chocolate lovers, as well. Children as young as 3 can mold and decorate their own chocolates or make chocolate lollipops or covered marshmallows.

Adults and children ages 12 and up can work with a Master Chocolatier to learn about working with chocolate, using techniques like molding, shaping bars, enrobing and decorating. Participants in all courses leave with their creations.

Chocolatarium in Edinburgh, Scotland, adds a Scottish twist to chocolate making as you create your own personal dream chocolate bar. Taste various chocolate varieties and infuse them with traditional Scottish flavors, such as heather honey, buttery shortbread cookies or any of 20 other different ingredients. Kids will love creating a delicious souvenir in the shape of Nessie or Edinburgh Castle. Along with the workshop, a tour of the museum includes a chance to see live cacao trees, learn how beans become chocolate and taste different varieties.