A walking holiday involving the whole family? What may seem inconceivable to some is perfectly possible in South Tyrol thanks to paths suitable for children and push chairs, themed walks offering lots of adventure, and places to stop for refreshment where the little ones are more than welcome. South Tyrol happens to be about more than mountaineering with plenty of uphill climbs and even more miles to cover.

When fun takes precedence over sport, a walking holiday with both little and big kids can turn out to be a great success. Climbing onto a huge dragonfly, floating across a pond, listening to ancient stories from a mountain shepherd, feeling the power of water. This is the Urlesteig. Paul holds his hand under icy water, while his sister toddles after a young kid goat. Hands-on hiking at its best. Not a word of complaint. Two hungry mouths eagerly devouring fresh milk and apple strudel. Cheeks rosy from fresh air and adventure.

Themes and walks

Short walking times and few uphill climbs are what family walks are made of. Fun and new experiences are the order of the day. South Tyrol’s flat panoramic paths, exciting trails and woodland tracks through dense lowland forests are ideal for this, and above all: the large number of themed walks. Whether it’s the mountain pasture trail in Pfossental valley, the Partschins Legends Path route, Bletterbach Gorge Geopark, or the Chestnut Trail through the Eisack river valley – suddenly kids are into walking when there’s something new to see, discover and explore.

Nature as an adventure playground

Nature also has lots of adventures in store that will make children’s eyes light up and cause their little hearts to jump for joy. Waterfalls, mountain pastures, mountain lakes, farms. Along ‘Waalweg’ irrigation channels or down a shady ravine – where there’s water, children will enjoy themselves as they build dams and sail little ships on the stops along the way. Dipping toes into cold water will produce squeals of delight. There may even be room for a little culture: South Tyrol’s fortresses and ruins have lots of wild stories to tell. The rest may be left to the little ones’ Imagination…

Tiny tots included

Even babies can enjoy trips to the mountains thanks to buggies with suitable tyres, shock absorbers, brakes and safety systems. New parents wishing to go on walks in South Tyrol should have a look at a book called ‘Wanderbabys’. Small children peeping contentedly out of backpack carriers are becoming a common sight and Daddy can get his sports fix on short walks too.

Where children are welcome

Children like going to places that are not too formal, where they can behave like children, and where they have the chance to meet other kids. As a result, parents do too. The ideal accommodation for your walking holiday with children in South Tyrol may be found here.