Gone are the days of chasing destinations and sticking to carefully planned itineraries.
For mum of five Rachael, the best adventures are often found in the simplest moments: discovering rock pools, collecting sea glass, climbing trees and watching her boys experience the magic of the coast.
In this Seashell Spirit Interview, Rachael shares how travelling as a family of 7 has taught her to slow down, embrace the chaos and find joy in the journey.
How has becoming a mum of five changed the way you experience adventure?
It’s made me slow down and notice the little things. Before children I would have chased the destination, now the magic is in the journey. Watching five boys discover rock pools, collect shells, climb trees or spot a crab for the first time reminds me that adventure doesn’t have to be big or expensive. Some of our happiest memories have been made on an ordinary beach with a picnic.
Trips with the kids. What’s one parenting ‘rule’ you’ve happily thrown out the window?
The idea that everything has to go to plan. I’ve learnt to embrace the chaos because that’s usually where the best memories are made. We don’t stick to strict itineraries, we’re happy getting sandy before breakfast, staying out until sunset or stopping because someone has spotted an interesting shell. Flexibility has made travelling with five boys so much more enjoyable.
You’ve explored so many beautiful places as a family. Where’s the one destination you’d return to again and again?
North Devon has my heart. We were married on the beach at Tunnels in Ilfracombe and go back every year to take a photo in the same spot so it holds so many memories for us. It has everything we love, wild coastlines, hidden coves, incredible beaches and so much charm.
One thing that’s always in your beach bag?
A tiny glass jar to collect sea glass in. The boys never come home empty handed, and I love that every little treasure reminds us of a day spent together by the sea. I also always carry a towel, to perch on a rock or dry someone off as a quick dip is fun when spontaneous.
What adventures are still on your family’s bucket list?
We’d love to take the boys on a road trip around Scotland, wild swimming and exploring remote beaches along the way. I’ve still got so many beaches I really want to see and explore, I find them all unique. More than anything, we just want to keep giving the boys a childhood full of nature, adventure and memories they’ll carry with them forever.
Thank you for sharing your Seashell Spirit with us, Rachael! Follow along with the family adventures on Instagram here.
Now get off the internet and go outside.
