Recovering from seasonal flu (a gift from the educational system), we spent the first half of the Easter holidays in bed. I usually manage to get the kids through it without antibiotics, but this time I had to give in and take them for a check-up. A few days of proper rest, and thankfully everyone was back on their feet.
Easter was a gentle reset. We shared a simple family meal and enjoyed a quick but joyful egg hunt in the garden. On Easter Monday, we joined a “scavenger egg hunt” at a nearby farm—an adventure that fully lived up to its name. I noticed some seasoned moms tackling the trail by bike, which felt like a glimpse into our future. We walked the full 5.5 km instead—laughing, sweating, navigating a few tears, and soaking in the early spring warmth. Note to self: next year—bikes only.
Golf season is back, and our eldest has joined the junior group at the local club. He proudly carries his clubs to each lesson, eager to learn. Most sessions take place on the range or in the academy, and his excitement is contagious.
I’ve stayed consistent with my morning walks since mid-February. With longer days and warmer weather, we’re naturally shifting into more bike adventures too. This month: 11 morning walks and 10 days on the bike.
One highlight was a trip to Locarno with friends and their two kids. We made a very worthwhile stop at what might be the best ice cream spot in the region—huge scoops, no regrets. Most of our rides took us along the sandy river beaches, which are quickly becoming a favourite.
One day, I took all three kids out on the bike—one riding independently and two with me. It wasn’t exactly smooth (a few technical hiccups along the way), but we made it home safely, and I felt ridiculously accomplished. Note to self: with a bit more practice, I’ll manage one child on the back and one asleep in the double Thule. Goal for this summer. Worst case—I build some much-needed muscle.
Our favourite adventure spot, Wonderwood, is officially open for the season. It runs on weekends and bank holidays, and we usually go for the “plus” ticket (return within 14 days for a small extra fee). As I’ve mentioned before, it truly offers something for everyone. (Linking our previous visit and latest High5 sensory check-in here.)
With warmer weather, birthday parties in Ticino have moved outdoors again. This month included a beautiful double birthday celebration in nature, up on Monte Verità. It felt just as much like a parents’ gathering as a kids’ party—children roaming freely through the woods, while we chatted nearby. As usual, I found myself stationed at the playground with my two youngest, catching toddlers mid-tumble alongside a few wonderful moms.
May in Planning
Bank holidays
Two family birthdays
Mother’s Day
Trip to Hungary
School trips and open days
1000 Hours Outside Challenge
We passed the 300-hour mark in April, spending over 110 hours outdoors together. As the days stretch longer, it becomes easier to say yes to going outside—even when it feels inconvenient.
In just over a month, school will be out. And with it, a little more freedom to shape our days around fresh air, movement, and time together.
Even in the messy weeks—the sick days, the logistical chaos, the moments of doubt—getting outside continues to be the one thing that grounds us. Not perfectly, but consistently.
If you’re visiting Riva del Garda and want one unforgettable viewpoint, the Bastione di Riva del Garda should be at the top of your list.
Perched high above town, this historic fortress offers panoramic views over Lake Garda—and the best part? You can either hike up or take a scenic panoramic lift.
Quick Overview
Location: Riva del Garda, northern Lake Garda
How to get there: Walking trail or panoramic lift
Lift duration: ~3 minutes (130 m elevation)
Entry: Free (Bastione ruins)
Family-friendly: Yes (especially with lift)
What to Expect
Getting to Bastione from Riva del Garda
There are two main ways to reach the Bastione:
1. Panoramic Lift (Best for Families)
We chose the lift this time—and it made everything easier with three kids.
Smooth, fast ride (only ~3 minutes)
Great views even on the way up
Ideal if you’re traveling with toddlers, strollers, or limited energy
With a carrier (for our 3-year-old) and a yo-yo buggy (for our 1-year-old), the lift worked perfectly.
2. Hiking Trail
We’ve done this before, and it’s a great option if you enjoy walking.
Scenic path through olive groves and woodland
Moderate incline (can be steep in sections)
Not ideal with bulky strollers
Parking & Arrival Tips
If you’re not staying nearby, a convenient option is Parcheggio Monte Oro, a multi-level car park just a short walk from the lift station.
We stayed close enough to walk, which made things even easier with kids.
What It’s Like at the Top
Once you arrive, you’ll find:
A short staircase or small lift to the terrace
The beautiful Ristorante Bastione Lounge & Restaurant
Easy access to the Bastione ruins
The ruins themselves are free to explore, and you can walk around freely. The views over Lake Garda are absolutely stunning—especially in autumn when the light is softer and the crowds are smaller.
Visiting Bastione with Kids (Honest Tips)
Traveling with three young kids (including a 1-year-old and a neurodivergent child), here’s what stood out:
Low crowds in November = huge win
Quiet environment compared to summer
Short activity duration (perfect attention span fit)
Flexible access (lift vs hike)
If you’re traveling with neurodivergent kids, I highly recommend visiting outside peak season. It made the experience far more enjoyable and manageable.
History of the Bastione
The Bastione was built in the early 1500s by the Venetians to defend the town after taking control of the region.
It was later heavily damaged during the War of the Spanish Succession and never fully restored. Today, it stands as a scenic ruin and one of the most iconic landmarks in Riva del Garda.
❤️ Why We Loved It
One of the best views in Lake Garda
Easy access thanks to the lift
Great for families with young kids
Calm, uncrowded experience in off-season
Combines nature, history, and a bit of adventure
Would We Return?
Yes—without hesitation.
Next time, we’d likely hike up again as the kids get older and continue our hike to Capanna Santa Barbara. But having the option to choose based on energy levels makes this spot especially appealing.
Practical Tips for Visiting
Buy lift tickets on-site(quick and easy)
Bring water, especially if hiking
Visit at sunset for the best views
Weargoodshoesif walking up
Check lift opening times before visiting
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning a family trip to Lake Garda, the Bastione is an easy win.
Whether you hike or take the lift, the views, history, and relaxed atmosphere make it one of the best things to do in Riva del Garda—especially outside peak season.
If you only have time for one viewpoint in Riva del Garda, make it this one.
From winter to summer, we’ve got blown over with a horrible wind lasting for a week. Opened and closed the month with sickness and rough coughing.
Beginning of March
Riding the motivation wave from last month, I continued waking up super early to go for an hour walk before sunrise. Overall I managed to get out 19 times in 31 days. I am now focusing on increasing the number of days I take 20’000 plus steps.
AgriNido
AgriNido is a parent-child morning on a farm led by a childcare professional. We basically met up with a bunch of parents and their tiny human aged 1 to 4 years-old. We followed our guide around, who introduced the kids to all the animals on the farm.
Once we collected some fresh grass, we fed the bunnies, while the other half of the group fetched some water for the tiny bunnies. Then we visited the goats and played on their playground after topping up their hay stack. Next we cleaned the donkeys and last but not least we cleaned up the stable of the alpacas before feeding them some carrot and apple slices. After the tour the smaller visitors were ready for their well-deserved nap time in the car on the way home.
It was a truly hands on experience both for the kids and for their caretakers. I wish this type of nursery would take place on a weekly basis in our area. I would have signed up for a day a week as opposed to one more day in an indoor setting. But I am told it takes a lot of permits to operate such a setting in our region.
Safari Park
March 19 is a bank holiday in Ticino. It is also Father’s Day. As my husband was working that day, I packed the car and set off to visit the Safari Park at Pombia, Northern Italy. The park – for our surprise – was much more than a Safari Park.
After a quick lunch we set off to visit the reptiles in the Rettilario. With more than 400 animals of 100+ species, the kids were eagerly looking through each terrarium to spot the well hidden creatures.
Next up, we hopped on one of those cool Dotto Trains to feed the animals at the Safari Park. Before we took off, they handed out buckets of carrots to everyone so we could toss them to the animals through the train windows. The giraffes totally knew it was snack time when they spotted the train coming! With their chests at eye level, they had to lean down to grab the carrots we held out. My youngest was totally amazed by how long the giraffes’ tongues were and ended up finishing the ride in grandma’s lap, watching those big guys from a comfy distance. Our daughter and eldest had a blast feeding the animals, even though they often dropped the food on the ground instead of handing it to them.
We saw these animals during the 45 minutes drive:
Giraffes
Zebras
Ostrich
Buffalo
Antilopes
Rhinos
Elephants
Hippos
Lions
Tigers
Pelican
Camels
After the Safari ride we had to visit the amusement park before heading home. Although we were still in the Safari Park, the fun rides had to be paid separately. As that Thursday was not a bank holiday in Italy, the park was almost exclusively ours 🙂 One big bonus for families with neurodivergent kids. One of the employee told us that during the holiday season they get around 4-5000 visitors per day. That Thursday we visited they had about 300 visitors. It was a very chill day for them.
Leolandia
For our father’s day trip we opted in to see what Leolandia has to offer. It was a gloomy day with spurs of sunshine here and there.
It was a mix of emotions throughout the day. I would definitely advise against visiting with a neurodivergent child. We faced a lot of minor challenges, that did not went down well with our daughter. I am talking about simple things, like you are not able to choose the colour of the ride you need to sit on when it’s your turn finally. All the rushing to take your spot and the sudden ending of it, was a lot to take in.
We also had lots of fun feeding the farm animals and meeting Bluey and Bingo. Lunch was surprisingly great. Only saying because we are so used to eating crappy food when visiting such parks. But not this time, there are many options to choose from.
Of course at the end everyone must leave through the souvenir shop. Ensuring that people not only go home with frate memories but also with a souvenir in hand.
April in Planning
Easter Time in Ticino
Family visiting from Italy and Poland
Longer Days – more time to spend outdoors
Our Bikes needs a face lift
1000 Hours Outside Challenge
It’s heartwarming to see that we managed to spend 85 hours outside, even if it felt like a slower month overall. We faced some challenges with illness at both the beginning and end of the month, which made our outdoor adventures more limited. Nonetheless, during the two and a half weeks we felt well, we truly embraced the time we had, planning experiences that allowed us to enjoy full days together in nature.
Snow, hail, rain, storm, breeze, clouds, sunshine and anything in between. Temperatures were varying between -6 to +17 degrees Celsius (with the feeling of 25 in the sun). The first flowers had appeared in the garden, although the ground was still asleep.
Beginning of Feb
Spring cleaning at home turned into room swaps. We turned our bedroom into the kids room and created a cosy sleeping room. Decorated the walls with posters and set up a book shelf in the corner. There is plenty of space in the middle for our pikler frames. Our new bedroom feels more spacious with our furniture than we originally thought. There is even space for my work station in there. Away from the noise of the TV in the living room.
Our little ones tried a new activity in Locarno. The trial day of the Ball Session was fun. We have to decide whether to spend our Saturday mornings in a gym, now that basically ‘summer’ is here.
We tried one of the viral Insta recipes, and it quickly became our go-to dinner meal. Baked parmesan onion crisp. Here are some of our raw photos, which don’t do it much justice. I’ve linked one of the videos in case you want to try it yourself. This dish is a delicious alternative to bread, as you can fill it with anything you like for a sandwich. You can roll it up or simply layer it with your choice of filling in between.
Just before the holidays, the kids dressed up in all sorts of costumes to celebrate Carnevale in the school. For merenda I made a light fruit snack and served it on a crocodile.
Vacanza di Carnevale
Ski break in other places. A whole week off school. We packed the car and drove to Hungary. Checked in to our hotel just before dinner. Not bad for a 1000 km plus trip. Key is to leave early and pack the night before.
We spent nearly the entirety of the week within the cozy confines of the hotel, seeking refuge from the stormy weather outside. Each day we ventured out briefly to tackle some administrative errands in town. Regardless of our short errands, we relished in the abundance of delightful activities that AquaWorld had to offer.
Unfortunately on this trip we couldn’t explore in person the city, but we cannot wait to return very soon.
By the end of the month
Our two little ones start to switch from parallel play to cooperative one. It is so nice to see them playing together more and more.
As the days light gets longer, the winter blues is lifting and the energy returns in us and everything around. I decided it is time to get fit again. Now that my youngest is two, I have slight memory of what it felt like owning my body again. As the kids returned to school, I decided to carve out an hour of my day to myself. I decided to wake up early every morning and go for a walk / jog. Those 60 minutes are life saving. I actually have some thoughts of my own now. I listen to the river cascading along the rocks next to me and the birds singing on the trees as it gets lighter. It is liberating both to the soul and to the body.
As the days are warmer and nobody is ill, we also spend more time outdoors. Enjoying the sunshine, roller skating, tree climbing, cycling, and skateboarding.
1000 Hours Outside Challenge
This month, we logged 60 hours outdoors, bringing our total to 116 hours for the year. While this may not seem like a significant amount for just two months, I’m not concerned, as I know that the first couple of months are typically our slowest, with the fewest opportunities to get outside. Our main season spans from March to November. I’m quite confident that we’re already surpassing last year’s hours, and that’s what truly matters to me. Improving in what we do is essential for our growth—never compare your progress to anyone else’s pace.
What a bipolar month you turned into January… You began with your exciting, action filled, sweet half, before turning into a gloomy, sickly few weeks in the middle / second half, just turn back to normal for the last week before February arrived.
Off to a Great Start
Every day was filled with adventures. We kicked off the year with a snowy day trip to Monte Tamaro. Where we had fondue lunch before sledging on the slopes. We explored the Fortress and the rode back down on the cable car.
On the way home, the little ones fell asleep. We drove straight to Ascona for the New Year’s Day Fireworks Show. Entering the underground parking lot, we spotted an A4 sized paper saying that the show was cancelled. We were confused, but went ahead to park. We agreed that Ascona is worth a visit even without fireworks. Later at home we saw the devastating news about the New Year’s Eve celebration party that ended tragically for so many young souls in Crans Montana. No wonder the fireworks and other extravaganzas planned for the beginning of the year, were cancelled or toned down. I think you would agree that Ascona is magical with its winter lights.
We celebrated a friends birthday in Italy and our eldest had a chance to try go karting for the first time in his life. What an experience for those 6 – 7 year old boys to race on the track for the first time together.
Next up we visited an iceskating BBQ party up on the mountains with many of the school friends of the kids and their families. We got to know an acquaintance family to one of the boys. It turns out that this family is as much traveled (or perhaps more) than we are. We, moms spent the whole afternoon getting to know each other’s colourful stories and adventures. Note, to self – I must reach out to her to strengthen connection.
We celebrated our youngest’s second birthday. This cheeky monkey is really putting the cheeky into the m…. Cake is made by my Mom, who has enormous passion and patience to create the masterpieces for her grandchildren. I feel really lucky to have such a great grandmother to our kids.
We ended up visiting Como one more time a week later to meet up with Mac’s cousin. There we took the kids to an American restaurant, which offers access to a soft play area with the lunch kids’ menu. The food was delicious and it wasn’t overpriced. The mayhem started when we descended to the soft play zone. With plenty on offer, the age range went from 0 to 12 years. Around the main zone, four side half open rooms hosts birthday parties. That afternoon all rooms were rented. A constant flow of kids with parents arrived all afternoon. Once the kids were adequately worn out, we returned to the restaurant for our dessert and coffee before heading back home.
The Middle
The day after this adventure our youngest started to show signs of flu. Next couple of days, he slept through the following few days and nights. His fever crept up above 40 degrees Celsius. Then on Tuesday, the eldest got sent home from school with fever. He suffered the most. I actually had never seen him so – so ill. His fever crept up as well, he cried out loud having muscle pain especially in his legs and back. Usually he sleeps off the illness, but this one was harsher on his body than ever. He could not get himself to eat for a week and often throw up the little water that he tried to send down.
By Wednesday, our daughter was sent home as well with fever. Interestingly she had handled it easier than ever. She had two days of fever and sleepiness. The third day she was on the mend by the look of it. Although the next week, she was still sent home from kindergarten with another round of fever, but luckily that only last 24 hours.
I struggled with the most horrible migraine so far in my life. It took a week to get rid of this awful headache. It felt like the mucus in my nose / head turned into cement and that pushed on my brain. All I could feel that my head will literally explode. I do not wish for anyone to have this feeling. And yet, I think my mom is having the same kind of headache at the moment.
Mac fell ill as well. High fever, muscle pain, awful cough and cold, headache. The list was endless. He head to stay home two extra days that week as he had no energy from the fever.
I hope this is the end of this brutal flu. And I hope, you are not going through this with your family.
Welcome Back Normality
After skipping three swimming sessions, a couple of Budo classes and whole lots of days in school, kindergarten and nursery, we finally made it back to our normality. The air outside is still crisp and around zero degrees Celsius. But finally the sun is back on our terrace. We get two doses of sunshine throughout the day thanks to the high mountains surrounding our valley.
Bandii Gianée – Chasing the Winter Away
This year, we got a dust of snow overnight mid January and nothing more, but cold and some rain – not complaining. The kids were, but its all ok. Same as last year, we got together with the kids of the school / kindergarten and their families to scare the winter away. The streets were filled with deafening noise while we walked around the old town. Arriving to the church, lovely author Valeria Nidola (writer of Mucche in Volo) presented a story for the kids. Followed by food – drinks – music by the fire.
Page Turner Challenge
Finally we onto ‘chapter books’, I am not sure why but I think I was waiting for this moment more than my eldest could imagine. He is happy to follow day by day (or I should say night by night) as the story progress. I feel these kinds of books really take you on an adventure and let you grow your imagination (which I always lacked of)…
How Winston delivered Christmas is a colourful adventure story of the main character, Winston the Mouse. I read it in italian and I cannot wait to re-read it in the years to come. The chapters are short and easy to grasp. Between each chapter there is an activity for children to do in preparation for Christmas. It’s a lovely read and a great alternative to sugary advent calendars. Story and activity a day to make the days fly by until Christmas.
Winnie-the-Pooh is a classic that brings back many memories of my childhood. My eldest cracks up of spelling of the animals and various names of imaginary figures, such as Wizzles and Woozles and Heffalump. The very important Missage of Piglet and the Expotition to the North Pole are his favourits. I have to admit that the long sentences challenge my breathing ability sometimes.
It’s okay NOT to share is an eye opening book for me. As a single child having three kids I feel I have to relearn what to do in certain situations. These kind of books are my rock and I try to listen to them while cooking in the kitchen. Unfortunately I am not in a position yet to sit down with a book 18+ in my hands.
The 2026 Book Club List of the 1000 Hours Outside Challenge proposed the book ‘Parental as Anything’ for January and I went along and listened to it while cooking. The subtitle sums up really well the value of the book. I loved listening to it.
We attended the ‘Storie & Biscotti’ after school event, where the kids listened to two stories in italian. And as previously mentioned during Bandii Gianee, Valeria Nidola presented a story for the kids.
At school the kids go to their library every two weeks and they can lend three books for a month. This month only my eldest managed to attend one of the library sessions. He is into comic books now. It’s the third Minecraft comic book that he borrowed from the library. At first I thought he reads it once and that’s it, but he keeps it by his pillow and after our high-low-buffalo and What made you proud today? chat, he turns on his night light and reads until he falls asleep with his glasses on.
1000 Hours Outside Challenge
Adventurous start of this month led us to more hours spent outside in the nature than last year during the whole month. The first two weeks, we spent over 30 hours outside. Then after two weeks bedrest and the last week we ventured out although starting slowly and gradually building up the kids stamina over a period of few days.
Last year January we spent over 35 hours outside, while this year I am proud to say that over 56 hours. What a difference to our family. How did we do it? Our approach to stay outdoors has changed significantly. We are looking for adventures on days when everyone is free of work, school, kindergarten and nursery. On weekdays, we try our best to lengthen our time in nature after office hours. All in all, it worked out well and here are some extra snippets of some precious animal time,
The last 31 days were like a rollercoaster, I am so ready to see what the next 28 days bring. Hello February!
New Years Day in our house started super slow, which is unusual with three little kids. This morning they enjoyed a longer snooze than usual. Being up early, a small voice in my head got louder and louder. It was encouraging me to look for a unique experience to welcome the new year, 2026.
A couple of days ago, I saw that the cable cars of Monte Tamaro were in operation. Looking up their website, I noticed that they offer a Fondue lunch / cable car package on New Years Day. After a quick call we had a plan: wake up kids, get ready, find the sledges and his the road to get there on time.
Arrival
Sign posts guided us from the main road to the car park. It is shared visitors of with the Splash & Spa. Plenty of spaces to park, near the cable car station. At reception we picked up our return tickets, and went through the gate to take the next cable car.
The cabin was bright with windows on all sides. It had 8 seats and large space between the chair rows, hence our sledges fit in with us easily. The ride took us about 10 minutes with a slowing down phase in the middle station, but no stopping.
Alpe Foppa
Lunch was great, the Alpe Foppa restaurant was a large hut and it could accommodate large crowds. Lunch was easy and filling, the service was quick. Our cable car pass included the lunch, we only paid for drinks. Kids menu was available for 15 fr per hear, which included a huge plate of their choice and drinks.
What to See & Do
Next we headed outdoor with the plan to discover the winter trail, which is a 3.2 km long circular path. It was a nice plan, we didn’t get that far. The kids just wanted to enjoy the snow. So we made it up to the top of the closest slope and used that to sledge for a while.
Once they were ready to leave to the slopes and the playground, we headed to explore the Fortress. This unique architecture was designed by Mario Botta (who also design the famous building, Fiore di Pietra on Monte Generoso). The church sits on the edge of the slope with a magnificent view.
From the restaurant a narrow corridor with tiny windows leads the way to the chapel entrance. On the white ceiling and interesting painting represents two cypress trees reaching to each other. Entering the church my son spotted a stand with candles lit. I remember when I was little, I used to love lighting a candle in places we visited. Around the walls wooden benches positioned like ribs in the human body. A little window, at the end of each row, is letting in day light showing off the image above.
On both sides of the chapel, stairs are leading up to the look out to admire the dramatic view from the outer most spot of Monte Tamaro.
Why We Loved It
From the first phone call to the very last employee we saw on the way down, everyone were particularly kids and courteous. I write this as it should be any hospitality settings – but I found it essential to highlight, because since we left England, I don’t often find employees of hospitality settings / attractions having their ‘game face’ on. I felt heard and not rushed with my enquiry.
Other aspects:
spacious panoramic cable car
large restaurant with great choice of drinks and meals
playground right in front of the restaurant
Would We Return?
Absolutely yes! We are planning to try the summer activities:
plenty of trails to explore with many circular options
Adventure Park at the middle station
Coaster Bob at the top
Zip Line – not sure if I will be brave enough to try 🙂
Their brunch to go package includes the return ticket with the cable car and packed lunch that you can take on your hike for a few CHF extra.
My Resources
Monte Tamaro website provides the latest and most up-to-date information available for your visit.
Today I felt at ease. I said no to something very important to be able to focus on celebrating the second birthday of my son properly.
It meant that I could keep my sanity all day and my focus on the celebrations. As it should be. But it wasn’t like me before, it’s my new me. In the past I would had squeezed in all the things came in my way, before prioritising myself and family.
Today I felt good with the progress at home and preparation. It’s far form perfect, but it’s right for the current season of our lives.
The Birthday Boy
After a long nap, our little boy was his happy self again. He went on exploring all the new ‘tidy’ layout, that he found at home 😃 It doesn’t happen often.
I could tell that he fully understands that all the fuss around the house and kitchen is for his celebration.
Grannies were invited for dinner at six in the evening. Allowing some quite after school time for the eldest and a short nap 💤 time for our daughter.
Dinner
Fondue 🫕 with steamed potatoes, fondue bread, some meat and pickles. The latest is my son’s absolute favourite. He can eat half a can for one meal.
Grandma prepared a masterpiece birthday cake. It was not only stunning to look at but delicious 😋 as well.
Birthday cake
Presents and glowing balloons 🎈 made everyone happy for the rest of the evening.
My Birthday Wishes
To my lovely youngest boy: your smile warms my heart immediately! I wish you keep your gorgeous smile forever and ever. Stay healthy and strong always. I love you to the moon and back.
In conclusion
And with that we close a huge era in our lives. No more babies. We take a short break before preparing for grand babies to come 🤗 But until then, look out for more adventures.
Trip Duration: half a day ⛰️ Difficulty Level: Easy & Buggy-Friendly 🚸 Trip Date: August 2025 Croda Rossa Mountain Station: 1925 m
Active Holidays in the Dolomites with Kids
If you’re planning an active holiday in the Dolomites with kids, Croda Rossa is a destination not to miss. This mountain station in South Tyrol offers everything a young family could wish for: buggy-friendly trails, creative playgrounds, alpine huts for a snack break, and jaw-dropping views of the Dolomites.
For us, this was one of the highlights of our trip. My oldest son had been waiting for this adventure all week, and it didn’t disappoint.
Getting There & First Impressions
After parking in the spacious car park, we set off on the cable car ride up to Croda Rossa. The kids were instantly glued to the windows, spotting cows in the meadows below and waving at hikers. The swishing cabin set the tone for the day—it already felt like an adventure before we even reached the top.
At 1,925 meters, the mountain station greeted us with fresh alpine air and plenty of space to explore.
Family-Friendly Fun at the Top
The first thing we noticed was the giant board displaying all the hiking options. This was a relief—Croda Rossa really caters to all kinds of visitors, from young families with strollers to serious hikers looking for a challenge.
Just a few steps away, Rifugio Rudi Hütte tempted us with wide terraces and delicious alpine meals. It’s the perfect spot to grab a bite while soaking in panoramic mountain views. A second hut is already under construction to keep up with the growing number of families visiting in both summer and winter.
But for us, the star attraction was waiting just beyond: the Rocky Spirits’ Adventure Trail.
The Rocky Spirits’ Adventure Trail – A Must for Families
Opened in July 2025, the Rocky Spirits’ Adventure Trail is the newest addition to the Three Peaks Family Adventure Parks—and it’s designed with families in mind.
This 2.5 km circular trail leads you past 15 interactive play stations, all made from natural wood and full of quirky, creative designs. Along the way, kids can:
Balance, climb, and explore unique wooden sculptures.
Build their own wooden animal statue at one of the stations.
Get up close to cows grazing peacefully on the alpine meadows.
We loved how easy the trail was—completely buggy-friendly and with benches placed in just the right spots for a snack break while gazing at the Dolomites. For us, it struck the perfect balance between play and nature, keeping both kids and parents happy.
Practical Tips for Families Visiting Croda Rossa
Best For: Families with toddlers, preschoolers, and school-aged children.
Bring Layers: Even though Croda Rossa isn’t the highest mountain, the open meadows can get breezy.
Allow Extra Time: Stations are popular, and little ones often want to stay longer than planned.
Snack Strategy: If a play area feels crowded, pause for a snack break—the trail is spacious, and things usually calm down quickly.
Why We Loved It
Croda Rossa gave us everything we look for in a family hike in the Dolomites:
Active, outdoorsy fun without being overwhelming.
Interactive play stations that kept the kids engaged the whole way.
Breathtaking alpine views that we adults could actually enjoy while the kids played.
We left with tired legs, happy faces, and the kind of rosy cheeks that only come from a day in the mountains. For us, that’s the recipe for a perfect family adventure in South Tyrol.
👉 If you’re visiting the Dolomites with kids, make sure to add Croda Rossa and the Rocky Spirits’ Adventure Trail to your itinerary. It’s an easy half-day trip that will create memories for the whole family.
When we planned our visit to Lago di Tenno, I wasn’t sure if it would work for our family. In fact — we almost left before even seeing the lake!
We stopped at the Tourist Information kiosk to ask if it was possible to get down to the lake with our buggy. The lady behind the counter shook her head and told us there was no way — “only stairs.” Disappointed, we almost turned back. But first, we decided to stop for an espresso.
I’m so glad we did.
At the hotel Restaurant, we asked the lady behind the counter the same question: “Is it true you can’t get to the lake with a buggy?” She looked at us like we’d just asked if the sky was blue.
“Of course you can,” she said, smiling. “Just take the path behind our hotel — easy.”
We followed her advice, walking through the hotel car park, and sure enough — there it was: a perfectly manageable path winding gently down to the lake.
First stop: the Suspended Bridge
The path itself was mostly easy — a couple of tree roots here and there — but we managed it just fine even with our double trailer buggy.
We decided to check out the suspended bridge first, which turned out to be a highlight. Built in 2023, at 120 m long and just wide (1.2 m) enough for our buggy to roll comfortably across, it was fun and exciting for the kids (and maybe a little for me too!).
After crossing the bridge, we settled down on the opposite shore to enjoy the scenery and let the kids play.
The most beautiful lake in Italy?
The shore is covered with tiny stones, but the lake itself is soft on the feet — no need for water shoes, though many locals wore them for extra comfort.
Lago di Tenno is said to be the cleanest freshwater lake in Italy, and it shows. Its turquoise‑blue color is mesmerizing — which is why locals also call it Lago Azzurro. As clouds passed overhead, the sun kept transforming the water into shades of green and blue. It was magical — truly heavenly.
👧🏼 What Kids Can Do at Lago di Tenno
We found plenty to keep our little ones happy: ✅ Swim and splash in the calm water ✅ Throw rocks into the lake ✅ Feed the fish at the shore (they go absolutely nuts for breadcrumbs!) ✅ Build little pozzi (stone “bays”) ✅ Explore the suspended bridge and the stream feeding the lake ✅ Go on a gentle hike or just explore the lakeshore ✅ Play in the sand, watch the fish, and of course… ✅ Eat a gelato
🍼 Useful Info for Parents
Here are a few things we wish we’d known beforehand:
Parking: There’s plenty, but bring coins for the meter.
Toilets: The car park has a pay toilet (50 cents), but there’s also a free toilet by the lake.
Snacks: There’s a small kiosk for drinks and snacks, but packing a picnic is a good idea.
Shade: Trees ring the lake, but shade moves throughout the day. A small umbrella or shade tent is handy.
Water toys: The water is calm — perfect for inflatables, toy boats, or buckets.
Lifeguards: Yes — on boats. A nice reassurance.
Depth: The lake does get deep within a few steps, so keep a close eye on little swimmers.
Best spot for kids: The little island near the car park side of the lake — shallower water and more consistent shade here.
Feeding fish: Don’t miss this! The kids loved watching the fish swarm at the shore for crumbs.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Let the Stairs Stop You
I’m so glad we didn’t listen to that first bit of (bad) advice. Lago di Tenno turned out to be one of our favorite discoveries on this trip — a peaceful, stunning, manageable escape that let us relax while the kids played happily.
If you’re traveling around Lake Garda and looking for a quiet, family‑friendly spot, don’t miss Lago di Tenno. Take it from me — yes, you can bring the buggy. Yes, it’s worth it. And yes, you’ll leave feeling like you’ve found a little slice of heaven.
📌 Have you been to Lago di Tenno? Would you dare to cross the suspended bridge? Let me know in the comments below!
Switzerland’s alpine passes are world‑famous, but not all of them are as steeped in history and as family‑friendly as the St. Gotthard Pass. This summer, we packed up the car, buckled in the kids, and set off on a breathtaking journey through one of Switzerland’s most iconic routes — and it didn’t disappoint!
Why Visit the St. Gotthard Pass?
The St. Gotthard Pass has connected northern and southern Switzerland since Roman times. At over 2,000 meters (6,900 ft) above sea level, it’s an engineering marvel and an unforgettable drive.
For families, it’s also surprisingly manageable — with lots of places to stop, stretch little legs, and admire the views. Of course as always with caution near roads. The pass is usually open between June and October, depending on snow conditions, so summer is the ideal time for a visit.
Getting There & Parking
🚸 From Valley to Summit
We began our adventure early in the morning, driving up from the Ticino side of the Alps. The climb was gentle at first, passing through green meadows, and charming alpine villages. As we got higher, the road became more winding — and more exciting for the kids!
🚗 The Tremola Road
One of the highlights was the Tremola, the historic cobblestone road that zigzags up the mountain in tight hairpin bends. Although there’s a modern, smoother road available, we couldn’t resist the charm (and photo opportunities) of the Tremola.
On the way up we found ourselves at the middle of a self-timed bicycle race. Cyclists were paddling up relentlessly as we passed by. I, for one, was always struggling with elevation when doing sport. I think my heart is just simply not built for climbing.
Family‑Friendly Tips
Here’s what worked well for us — and what we recommend if you’re bringing little ones along:
✅ Start early — The road can get busier by midday, and parking at the top fills up quickly.
✅ Pack layers — Even in summer, it’s chilly and windy at the summit.
✅ Plan stops — There are picnic spots and cafes near the top where you can take a break. Also, prepare some coins for toilet stops. There aren’t many on the way.
✅ Go at your own pace — The Tremola is narrow and slow‑going, but that’s part of the charm. No need to rush! Stop and take in the view and go slow.
At the Top: Views and History
At the summit, we parked and took time to explore. There are several trails start near the car parks. We walked around the lakes and looked for some wind sheltered picnic spot. You can walk as far as the you wish and there are plenty of spots to settle down for a quick bite. Around the lake there were some picnic benches but they get busy pretty quick.
After a quick lunch we explored the central area. There were several statues along the path, great opportunity to take magnificent photos with the dramatic mountain peaks at the background.
This trip took us around the outdoor areas of San Gottard Pass. But we are already planning to return to explore the Gotthard National Museum, and the Sasso San Gottardo exhibition center with the kids. We plan a whole day trip to allow plenty of wiggle time for the little ones. I read a lot about these attractions and they are definitely unique places to learn about the rich history of this iconic pass.
Why We Loved It
This trip reminded us that you don’t have to hike for hours to experience the magic of the Swiss Alps with children. The St. Gotthard Pass is like a time capsule, with its cobblestones, old milestones, and breathtaking landscapes — and you can enjoy it all from the comfort of your car with plenty of stops to explore.
For families looking for an easy, memorable alpine adventure, this one’s a must!
Quick Facts
📍 Location: Uri–Ticino, Switzerland 📏 Pass elevation: 2,106 m (6,909 ft) 🗓️ Best time to visit: June–October ⏳ Trip duration: Half‑day to full‑day
If you’ve ever driven the St. Gotthard Pass, or if it’s on your travel bucket list, I’d love to hear your experience in the comments below. And if you’re planning a family trip, feel free to ask me any questions — I’m happy to share more tips!
