Tag: italy

Monte Baranci: Adventure for All Ages in the Dolomites

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Dolomites from the Cable Car

Trip Duration: Full Day ⛰️ Difficulty Level: Easy & Buggy-Friendly 🚸 Trip Date: August 2025

It was only few minutes into the trail when I realised that we actually made it 😊 everything I’ve been dreaming about for the past few months was right there: fresh mountain air, sharpe mountain peaks above the emerald green forests, and sunshine ☀️

The pressure of the packing and driving had started to wear off slowly with every step we took.

Easy Family Adventures at Monte Baranci: Play, Trail, Drone Views & More!

Nestled just above the charming town of San Candido (Innichen), Monte Baranci in the Italian Dolomites is the ultimate family-friendly mountain escape—perfect for families traveling with kids of all ages. This special destination makes memorable adventures look effortlessly fun. Here’s why it captured our hearts (and will yours too).

Getting There and Parking

We drove there and parked in their enormous car park (can accommodate hundreds of cars). Once opened the boot a car park attendant saw us contemplating which buggy to take up onto the mountain. He quickly pointed out that no matter the size, the chairlift will take it up. So we opted in to the double trailer for our younger passengers. With the nap time secured, everyone else could have an all-day fun.

The place is also comfortably accessible with train. The train station is just a few minutes walk from the chairlift. There are also local bus services. This destination is a huge ski paradise in the winter season with a well established infrastructure to accommodate sport enthusiasts.

Chairlift to Play Paradise

In less then 10 minutes the four-seater chairlift brought up to our destination. Along the way, we saw some brave souls whooshing downhill with the funBob. We spotted some happy cows grazing and running across the rolling the hills. Hikers and bikers taking on the mountain on various trails. And the best view of the Dolomites mountain range.

The Realm of the Giant Haunold / Gigante Baranci

Once we arrived, our little explorers raced toward the mountain playground, including the whimsical Giant’s Realm—a 2 km circular trail dotted with 10 interactive stations that bring fairy-tale elements to life.

I recommend starting on the trail, where you can explore lost items of the legendary Giant Hanuld. One messy giant who kept the locals and their animals in fear. The trail is suitable for buggies, however make sure you are fit to push it up the gravel path.

According to the signs it takes about 60 minutes to walk around the loop. We took a good 2.5 – 3 hours. We took on the pace of our 19 months old, who insisted to walk majority of the trail by himself. We took plenty of snack and craft breaks with the kids.

Once we found all the things the giant lost, we re-fuelled our bodies and headed straight to the bearfoot lakes to cool down a bit. We spent over and hour to there, letting the kids splash in the shallow ponds filled with water of fresh mountain streams.

Woodland Trail to San Candido

Another buggy friendly path starts from the giant’s footprint ponds downhill. It is 2.9 km trail with an elevation of 325 m. It is proclaimed buggy friendly again, due to its surface. However I would not recommend for heavy or double buggies. We took our trailer down the path as both littles ones were napping. But it was a struggle to control the buggy on this descent. Our knees were burning with pain by the time we got back to the car park. So, think twice and take a rest.

Thrill of the Funbob (Coming Soon)

Stay tuned—for the next part of this adventure! In Part 2 launching next Wednesday, we’ll take on the thrilling Funbob alpine coaster—South Tyrol’s longest summer toboggan run.

The Village of San Candido / Innichen

Once back down at the car park, we drove around the village to capture its charm in the video below.

Why Monte Baranci Is a Bucket-List Family Destination

  • All-ages friendly: From toddlers to teens, activities like the interactive trail, playgrounds, and toboggan appeal across ages.
  • Packed with variety: Adventure, nature, play, gentle slopes, and storytelling—all in one accessible day trip.
  • Spread out everything: Plenty of space for kids to explore while parents soak in the panoramic alpine views.
  • No stress, all fun: Easy chairlift access and safe descent paths make this a low-hassle mountain day.

Final Thoughts

If you’re a family seeking easy yet enriching mountain fun, Monte Baranci offers the best of the Dolomites without the heavy lifting. Your video beautifully showcases how effortlessly kids can be kept entertained—from imaginative trails and playgrounds to sweeping aerial views. And Part 2? I can’t wait to see the Family Funbob in action!

Family Road Trip from Ticino to the Dolomites (Austria)

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Finally, it’s time to pack up the crew and set sail—well, more like buckle up the kids, load the snacks, and hit the road! 🚗✨ For the past two years we’ve been dreaming about returning to South Tyrol, and this summer the Dolomites are calling us back.

Last time, we only had a taste of what the region has to offer: emerald-green meadows, turquoise mountain lakes, and adventure parks where kids can play for hours. We left with happy memories but also the feeling that we’d only just scratched the surface.

This time, we’re not going alone. Between us and our friends, we’ve got 5 kids, 6 grown-ups, and an entire car full of snacks and strollers—ready to trade daily routines for mountain trails, playground forests, and alpine adventures. It’s going to be messy, loud, and unforgettable… in the very best way.

🛣️ Road Trip Planning with Kids (6, 3, and 1-Year-Olds)

Normally, the drive from Ticino to Sillian takes about 5.5–6 hours. With kids, though, we plan at least one stop along the way. This time, we’ll pause at Riva del Garda for a picnic and a play break—giving our youngest travelers some much-needed time outside the car.

On road trips, we always pack our picnic basket with whatever the fridge and pantry can spare. Eating on the go helps us keep nap schedules intact and saves time compared to wrangling everyone out at a restaurant.

For entertainment, we rotate between CoffeeBreak Italian podcasts, car games like “I Spy” or “Word Chain,” and plenty of storybooks for the little ones between naps and snack times.

🧳 Packing with Kids: Our Family Checklist

When traveling with a 6-, 3-, and 1-year-old, packing can feel like moving house. Over the years we’ve learned that a little planning goes a long way—especially when you’re heading into the mountains where weather and needs can change quickly.

✨ Two Days Before Departure

  • Clothes: lots of layers (valley vs. mountain temperatures can differ hugely).
  • Shoes: slippers, trekking sandals, sturdy hiking shoes, and wellies for rainy days.
  • Comfort items: soft toys, blankets, or bedtime must-haves.
  • Kid input: we let the kids choose a few toys, books, or games for the trip—it gets them excited and involved.

✨ One Day Before Departure

  • Electronics & gear: phones, cameras, drone, action cam, night lights, and all chargers.
  • Bug protection: plug-in mosquito diffuser or spray.
  • First aid: a full medical kit for the car + a small trail kit.
  • Sun protection: hats, sunglasses.
  • Documents: wallets, passports, and any medical papers.

✨ Day of Departure

  • Snacks & drinks: a packed picnic basket for easy, on-the-go meals.
  • Entertainment: podcasts, simple car games, books.
  • Quick-access bag: wipes, spare clothes, small toys, and comfort items within reach.

🗺️ The Route: From Ticino to Sillian

Leaving Ticino means waving goodbye to lakes and palm trees and slowly climbing into alpine scenery. The kids love spotting changes along the way – high mountain peaks, cows grazing in meadows, and tunnels that seem to go on forever.

Family Tip: Plan longer stretches of driving during nap times and keep shorter ones for awake periods. This helps everyone’s mood (parents included!).

🏡 Destination: Arriving in Sillian

Sillian is a small, cozy village that feels made for families. It’s quieter than the big Dolomite resorts but still close to everything. Accommodation options range from family-run hotels to farm stays and holiday apartments with kitchens—perfect for cooking quick meals when kids get hungry outside restaurant hours.

The best part? Sillian is a central base for hikes, cable cars, and family adventures while offering plenty of playgrounds for downtime.

🏔️ Family-Friendly Activities in & Around Sillian

Croda Rossa (Rotwand)

  • Giant cable car rides that kids love.
  • Wide-open meadows.
  • Brand-new Family trail chasing the lost spirits of the mountains.
  • Buggy-friendly trails, easy for the whole family.

Monte Elmo (Helm)

  • Barefoot adventure trails with child-friendly themes.
  • Panoramic views without long hikes.
  • Petting zoo playground near the mountain station.
  • Panoramic bar terrace for a well-deserved Aperol Spritz or Mountain Ginger.

Baranci (Haunold)

  • A summer toboggan run and an adventure park.
  • Toddler-friendly trails and safe play areas.
  • Wooden ball track and tubbing.
  • Parents can relax while kids cool down in the Giant’s footsteps pools.

Assling Wildlife Park

  • The ultimate forest wildlife park on the mountain.
  • Grandpa’s model train collection.
  • Playground with water play, slides, swings, and climbing.
  • On the mountain with pram-accessible walking paths.
  • Funbob side by side with the park.

Galitzenklamm

  • A dramatic gorge with waterfalls and wooden walkways.
  • Kid-friendly paths (but better with carriers than strollers).
  • Adventure climbing park nearby for older children.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Tips for Families Traveling this Route

  • Dress for all seasons: mountain weather changes fast—layers are your friend.
  • Snacks = sanity: hungry kids = grumpy kids. Always overpack snacks.
  • Balance big days and rest days: mix cable car + hike days with simple playground afternoons.
  • Bring the right gear: a sturdy stroller or carrier makes life easier.
  • Keep small distractions handy: sticker books, cards, or a tiny toy can save a wait at a mountain hut.
  • Embrace the unexpected: some of the best memories come from unplanned moments, like watching cows or splashing in streams.

✨ Closing Thoughts & Inspiration

As parents, we sometimes wonder if big trips like this are “worth it” with little ones. The packing lists are endless, naps don’t always line up, and someone always needs a snack just as the trail gets steep. But the Dolomites reminded us that adventure doesn’t have to wait until the kids are older.

Here, mountains meet playgrounds, hikes, and family memories are made in the small, unexpected moments—giggles in a gorge, a picnic by the roadside, or ice cream after a cable car ride.

We came for the scenery, but we’ll leave with something even better: a reminder that family travel is less about ticking off sights and more about collecting little moments of joy. And those tired, happy smiles at the end of each day? That’s the real treasure of traveling with kids. 💛

Lago di Tenno with Young Kids: A Hidden Gem We Almost Missed

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Lake Tenno with mountains and white clouds

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!

Wonderwood: Hidden Gem Family Adventure Park at Lake Maggiore, Italy

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Ranger Trail at Wonderwood

Trip Duration: 8 hours ∞∞∞ Difficulty Level: Easy ∞∞∞ Trip Date: 25 May 2025

I can’t believe it’s already been three years since we were in the hospital theatre, hearing the surprising words: “You have a baby girl!” We had always joked that girls just don’t happen in our families—so when life proved us wrong, we were overjoyed. And grateful beyond words.

Birthday cake made by Grandma.
Birthday cake made by Grandma.

To celebrate her third birthday, we decided to skip the traditional party and instead go on an adventure—a new experience we could all enjoy together.

Wonderwood Adventure Park

Getting There: A Drive to Remember

The journey to Wonderwood took us about an hour. Half of the drive followed the scenic shores of Lake Maggiore, the other half twisted upward along narrow mountain roads—complete with hairpin turns and dramatic drops. No barriers, just breathtaking (and slightly nerve-wracking) views.

I’ll admit: I needed a deep breath and a moment to reset after that drive before I could think about tree trails or ziplines. Want a glimpse of the road and the trip?

First Impressions & Planning Ahead

At the entrance, we were warmly greeted by a friendly receptionist who explained everything calmly and clearly. The atmosphere was unhurried, which set the tone for a truly relaxed day. We immediately reserved a table for lunch on the panoramic terrace—a must if you’re visiting during peak hours.

Rope Course Adventures for All Ages

We headed straight to the rope courses, where everyone received a helmet and safety harness. After a short but thorough training on a practice course, we split up:

  • Our daughter (the birthday girl!) tried the low-level course, which is suitable from age 3.
  • Our son and my husband tackled the medium course, which runs 3 to 6 meters above ground.
  • There’s even a high course 9 meters up—for next time!

More Than Just Ropes: Other Highlights

🐿️ Squirrel Coaster

A creative wooden obstacle track for racing wooden balls down the hill. Spoiler: I was so focused on the race, I almost landed on my backside. Watch your step!

Squirrel Coaster: wooden ball run

🚙 Ranger Trail – Land Rover Ride

It is one of my kids absolute favourite. The range rovers are suitable from 3 – 14 year. Parents must accompany the riders with a remote that can switch off the jeep before something goes downhill.

💦 Paddling Pool

After and during all the excitement, the best way to reset and cool down is to visit the paddling pool. The pool is shallower on one side than the other, but still perfect for toddlers. The swirling stream by its side with its ankle height water is great for babies.

🚜 Build It – Digging station

Diggers turned out to be a great distraction to both young and younger members of our crew. The two stations offer different things to grab. One is for digging up dirt and pouring over from one side to another, while the other has a grabber for lifting up wooden logs. Both the digger and the jeeps work with the same tokens. Tokens can be pre purchased or bought at the training center.

Food & Relaxation: The Grotto

The on-site restaurant, Grotto, gets busy—especially on weekends. Be sure to book a table when you check in. If you’re just after a snack, the WunderBar next to the playground offers a good selection of drinks and treats.

Signpost

Why We Love Wonderwood

Wonderwood is exactly the kind of place we love discovering:

  • Family-friendly without being overwhelming
  • No queueing for climbing due to the buzzer system in place
  • No cash needed on site due to the park green card system – pay at the end on the way out
  • Outdoorsy but safe, the park is fully enclosed providing a secure ground to roam
  • Structured enough for parents to relax, but adventurous enough for kids to feel brave

It offered something for each member of our family—from the curious toddler to the adrenaline-loving big brother. The best part? We’re already planning to return next week.