Tag: nature

Fondue with Sledging on Monte Tamaro on New Year’s Day

Posted in Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , , , , Leave a comment
Winter Walk on New Year's Day

First Day of 2026

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.

Homepage

On the first day of Christmas…

Posted in Journey JournalTagged , , , , , , Leave a comment

Boredom had settled in early this year. Hiding from the rain at home with all three kids and hubby.

What can we do around kiddies’ nap times and in between food and Christmas movie??? 🎥

On the first day of Christmas
My true love gave to me
A partridge in a pear tree

Well… it’s a good time to go through all the photos we took this year. Twelve days of Christmas means a month for each day. Let’s start with January.

…. 11 days later.

I am finally back at the keyboard BUT all the romantic ideas about posting each day of the 12 days of Christmas had passed. Here I am a day before Epiphany, contemplating if I should make one big post about 2025. Is it too late? Probably it is, but this is life and I am so ready to kick off 2026 on a high note. But first lets review 2025 :

January:

February:

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

  • trip to Viamala gorge
  • B starts school
  • M starts kindergarten
  • PediBus initiative
  • trip to Lake Orta
  • my birthday
  • trip to Lake Garda
  • Budo
  • great outdoor party at Palagnedra

October

  • B turned seven and invited everyone to his party after school
  • Lego expo
  • Halloween Party at Palagnedra

November

  • trip to Italy
  • Night of Story Telling – Notte del Racconto (Swiss-wide initiative)
  • another outdoor birthday party
  • surprise friends’ visit at the end of November
  • exploring the Winterland in Locarno – B’s class decorated a Christmas tree
  • ice skating
  • Advent brunch in Intragna

December

  • winter craft for teacher’s gift
  • San Nicolao
  • Christmas concert, where B and M both participated and sang
  • trip to look at the Lucini di Natale in Italy
  • Christmas break for M
  • New Years celevration in Palagnedra: disco on ice

The one and only plan for the year of 2025 was to spend at least 1000 hours outdoors with the kids. Aaaand… we smashed this goal. Totalling 1004 hours outdoors in temperatures between -5 and 40 degrees Celsius. I call this a success.

And to celebrate we kicked off 2026 with a trip to Monte Tamaro for some sledging and Fondue.

This year I ask for at least the same amount of hours outdoors, for less screen time and more laughter if that is even possible. It’s time to stick a fresh tracker on the wall to record our time in the nature. I look forward to more adventures with my loved ones.

Family Adventure at Croda Rossa – Buggy-Friendly Hike in the Dolomites

Posted in Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , , Leave a comment
View of the Dolomites behind one of the carve-wood station of the Lost Spirits Trail.

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.

Monte Baranci: Adventure for All Ages in the Dolomites

Posted in Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , Leave a comment
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!

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

Posted in Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , , 1 Comment
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!

The Enchanting La Froda Waterfall: A Hidden Gem in Valle Verzasca, Ticino, Switzerland

Posted in Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , , 1 Comment


Trip Duration: 4 hours ⛰️ Difficulty Level: Easy 🚸 Trip Date: 3 May 2025

Ready to step into a real-life fairytale? In this post, we take you on a magical family day out to the car-free village of Sonogno and the stunning La Froda Waterfall — ending at a playful spot where a wooden ball track begins!

Getting There & Parking

The drive through Valle Verzasca is an adventure in itself! The winding road hugs the turquoise Verzasca River, and along the way, you’ll pass iconic sights like the Verzasca Dam (featured in a James Bond movie!) and the popular jump spot at Ponte dei Salti in Lavertezzo.

As you approach Sonogno, you’ll spot a large, well-maintained car park on the right. It has toilets and is monitored by local authorities — don’t forget to pay your fee before heading off on your adventure!

What to See & Do

Sonogno: The Village

This peaceful, car-free village is perfect for little legs and wandering souls. Start at the tourist info center near the souvenir shop and choose from two scenic paths through the village — one past the church and ice rink, or a slightly elevated route with Alpine views and rustic houses nestled into the rocks.

Don’t miss the drinking fountain for a water break and the charming Efra restaurant, which makes a great lunch stop. There’s also a small playground here for a quick run-around.

La Froda: The Waterfall

The highlight of the trip! Cascading down from 100 meters, Cascata La Froda is dramatic, refreshing, and unforgettable. As you approach, you’ll feel the mist in the air — expect to get a little wet if you get close (which kids usually love!).

The short trail includes dirt paths, wooden bridges, and stone steps. Most of the tricky parts are secured with railings, but it can get slippery near the waterfall — hold hands with younger kids and take it slow.

Playground back in Sonogno: BoBosco Trail

After our hike, we followed the path back through the village and ended at the local playground — a wonderful reward for tired adventurers. With plenty of benches for parents and space to play, it’s the perfect cool-down stop.

BoBosco wooden ball run starts here too! There are 4 fun stations in the playground, and the full 10 km trail continues into the valley. We’ll save that for another day — our little hikers had already gone on quite the journey!

💡 Tips & Tricks

  • 🌦️ A light waterproof jacket can be useful near the waterfall mist
  • 🎒 Pack snacks, water bottles, and sun hats
  • 👟 Wear comfy shoes with good grip — it gets slippery near the waterfall!
  • 🚼 Bring a scooter, balance bike, or ride-on toy for little ones in the village
  • 🛺 Leave the buggy at the bottom of the waterfall, just after crossing the bridge

❤️ Why We Loved It

In this half a day trip we managed to move the kids along the village to the gorgeous waterfall. Finishing the trip with a well deserved rest at the playground.

⭐ Top Family Highlights

  • 🛝 Fun playground and the unique BoBosco trail
  • 🏡 Safe, car-free village ideal for young kids
  • 🚗 Scenic road trip with exciting stops along Verzasca Valley
  • 💦 A touch of adventure with an easy hike to a breathtaking waterfall
  • 🌿 Rustic charm with wildflowers, mountain views, and stone houses


Have you visited Sonogno or La Froda Waterfall?
We’d love to hear your tips or favorite spots in the Verzasca Valley — share them in the comments!

Leave a comment

Resources

📍 Bonus: Check out the Traveler’s Map of Verzasca Valley to plan your own fairytale adventure.

Cascata di Foroglio: a Heavenly Waterfall in the Val Bavona, Ticino, Switzerland

Posted in Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment
Cascata di Foroglio

Trip Duration: 4 hours ⛰️ Difficulty Level: Moderate 🚸 Trip Date: 11 May 2025

A Day Trip to Magical Foroglio – Perfect for Families with Young Explorers

Early May took us to one of Ticino’s most picturesque gems: the village of Foroglio, tucked away in the breathtaking Bavona Valley. This car-free village, nestled at the foot of a dramatic 110-meter-high waterfall, is a dream destination for families craving nature, peace, and a little adventure. Its rustic charm, cobbled paths, and roaring waterfall made it a perfect day trip with our little ones in tow.

📍 Highest Point: 1110 m
📍 Lowest Point: 683 m

Getting There & Parking

The drive alone felt like an adventure! From Centovalli through Valle Maggia to Val Bavona, we followed the winding road beside the sparkling Maggia River. Foroglio is one of the final villages in the valley, and you can’t miss the large car park near the entrance. There’s plenty of space, plus clean public toilets and a handy fountain for refills.

Just before the forest trail starts, there’s a charming Alpine Self-Service station—a kiosk for drinks and snacks. Unfortunately, it was already empty when we arrived, so it’s worth bringing a few supplies just in case.

What to See & Do

The Village ∞∞∞ The Waterfall ∞∞∞ The Forest Trail

🌿 Foroglio: The Village

From the car park, we had two routes: a trail toward the waterfall or a forest path alongside a cascading stream. We chose to explore the village first, and it did not disappoint. The kids were excited to cross the bridge and discover the little restaurant “La Froda”, where you can enjoy local specialties to the soundtrack of falling water. Next time, we’ll plan ahead to dine here—it smelled amazing!

We wandered through the narrow lanes, where stone houses huddle together like a fairy tale scene. Among them, we spotted a few curious timber-built stilt houses, traditional to the Valais region. Their unique design—elevated on stone “legs”—was a fun architectural discovery for both us and the kids.

💧 Foroglio: The Waterfall

Well-marked signs led us uphill toward the waterfall. The trail is rocky, dotted with tiny streams, and filled with adventure. Our little ones needed some help scrambling over rocks, but that just added to the fun. The climb took us about 30–40 minutes at a kid-friendly pace—and it was so worth it.

Up close, the waterfall is absolutely awe-inspiring. The sheer force and mist make it feel like a scene out of a fantasy movie. On the way back, we returned in just 20 minutes—proof that the promise of a snack can really speed up little legs.

🧒 Parent Tip: Pack waterproofs or quick-dry clothes if you plan to get close—there’s serious spray!

🌲 The Forest Trail

After our waterfall hike, we took a more relaxed stroll along the forest path. From down here, the waterfall appears to drop straight from the sky. The crashing water creates a fine mist—beautiful, loud, and a bit wild!

As we walked further into the forest, the noise faded and birdsong took over. It was incredibly peaceful. We eventually turned back—our smallest explorer hit “low battery”—but we’re already planning to return and see more.

Tips & Tricks

  • 🧺 Tips for Families
  • 💶 Pay for parking—fines are not the kind of souvenir you want.
  • 🕛 Dine early at La Froda—it gets busy in the afternoons.
  • 🧃 Picnic-friendly: plenty of spots to enjoy a packed lunch.
  • 🥾 Sturdy shoes a must—the terrain is uneven and rocky.
  • 🚼 No strollers—bring a carrier for babies/toddlers.
  • 💧Water and toilets available near the car park and at the village top.
  • 👟 Choose your route—doing both the village and forest trail in one trip might be too much for smaller kids.

❤️ Why We Loved Foroglio

The journey through Val Bavona alone was worth the trip, but arriving in Foroglio felt like stepping into a storybook village lost in time. The preserved houses, the mighty waterfall, the peaceful trails—everything felt raw and untouched. Though the village seemed deserted, it’s lovingly maintained.

Our kids had a blast exploring the paths, balancing on rocks, spotting lizards, and racing through the forest. It’s a destination that sparked curiosity and joy in all of us.

⭐ Top Family Highlights

  • 🚗 Scenic drive through the Bavona Valley
  • 🏡 Car-free zone—safe and fun for active kids
  • 💦 Dramatic waterfall views and forest adventure
  • 🧗‍♂️ A moderate challenge that feels like a true adventure
  • 🌿 Nature immersion without the crowds

Have you visited Foroglio? Let us know in the comments—or share your tips for exploring with little ones!

Leave a comment

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

Posted in Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , 1 Comment
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.

Goodbye January: Welcome Back Sunshine

Posted in Journey JournalTagged , , , , , , , , , , 4 Comments
cloud above snowy mountain lit by hiding sun

January is a month filled with short days. Our January – if I would need to chose a theme – would be noise. Yes, NOISE. Now, put your hands up if you are not great with noise. That’s me. My soul rests when there is no noise around. Does it happen often? Nope. My poor chimming heart gets heavy and sweaty trying to race with the loudness. My breaths get shorter and rapider. When I bare no more, I remove myself from this atmosphere and spend some time cooling down.

Bandi Gianee

New experience alert. This month we got to know the story behind Bandi Gianee. A custom typical to the Italian part of Switzerland. In particular to Locarno and its close vicinity.

What do you need? Some empty cans on a long string that can be tragged around town, making as much noise as possible.

Winter is still in full swing in the mountains, however in the warmest part of Switzerland, the locals are already calling for the spring and summer. Here, in Centovalli, the sun arrives to the valley towards the end of January. So it makes sense to make as much noise as possible to scare the winter away for another year.

my kids are making noise with a stick on the playground drums
First Day of January
kids with instruments scaring the winter away
Last Day of January

It is yet another great opportunity to spend time outdoors with the community. The celebration often ends with a ‘merenda’. All participants contribute with some drinks and snacks. We got to spend it with a group of amazing, dedicated parents and caretakers. With the tummies filled, the guitarist took his instruments and the sound of the music gathered all the singers around. Time flies when you are having fun.

1000 Hours Outside Challenge

With a fresh start, I am logging the time spent outdoors (roughly). In January, with the winter flu blooming, we spent 35 hours and 15 minutes outdoors. This is a tiny bit more than one hour per day on average. I expect, it is the toughest to show results in the first month of the year. My tiny peeps are not a big fan of cold and dark. So the window of opportunity is pretty narrow. Based on that I am happy with the results and I am looking forward to seeing some longer days to come.

  • Bike Time
  • Puddle Fun
  • Puddle Biking
  • kids with instruments scaring the winter away
    Noise Fun
  • Winter Forest
  • Winter Walks
  • Forest Stream
  • Sunshine spotting
  • Swimming Lessons
  • Indoor Sand Play
  • More Winter Walks
  • Frosty Grounds
  • Frosty Forest
  • Winter scene
  • Happy Birthday
  • Family Pic
  • River Maggia
  • Family Pic
  • Indoor Play
  • Duplo Fun
  • Christmas Deco
  • Winter in Poland
  • Winter Seaside Fam
  • First Day of January

Winter Sunbathing: Exploring Brissago and other family low/highlights

Posted in Journey Journal, Toddler TripTagged , , , , , , , , 2 Comments

Swimming Lessons, Back to Work, Winter Flu, Exploring Brissago, Family Pool Fun

Brissago

Driving straight into the winter sun, which is sitting low on the horizon. Lake on the left and mountain on the right. The road hosts two way traffic but with the width of two old minis, very narrow. It is full of twists and turns. Just around one corner a garage door amongst the rocks of the mountain. Park the car and take the lift to get to your residence.

There are many such garage doors along the road south from Ascona just like that. Each one has a concrete lift shaft above. I can only imagine how people live / commute from places like this. I wonder what happens when the lift breaks down.

We kicked off the trip at the southern part of the town. Parking near the lido of Brissago, we planned to check out the slide leading to Lake Maggiore. However it is closed in the winter and it is not accessible with a buggy / trailer due to the stairs.

Chiesa di S. Maria di Ponte

A few meters further to the south on foot, we found a church. Large wide stairs leading down to what it looks like to the lake. To the right the cemetery to the left the most well maintained church yard, I have ever seen. The church is open for visitors from April until November. However the surrounding garden is open all year around. The lawn is manicured with precision, the trees are pruned for the next season. It is a great spot to fill up on vitamin D on a nice sunny day.

Looking around we can see the nearby lido and long slide just behind the church. On the lake the island of Brissago is visible. It’s botanical garden offers a couple of hours excursion for the visitors. On the other side of the lake, the mountains go from green bottom to brown middle to white caps.

From here we carried on towards north of the town. Along the way, many of the Mediterranean features can be spotted. The houses have warm colours, the palm trees keep their unique shades all year around. Stone dominates many of the walls, bridges and due to the steep hill Brissago is built on, there are many not-so-hidden stairs along the town.

Lungolago of Brissago

Lungolago is filled with benches to rest on. Unique statues and fountains break up the path. Lemon and orange trees show off their fruit even this time of the year. The winter sun makes long shadows creating a dramatic effect on the photos we took along the journey.

Below the promenade the large stones form theater seats like structure. Great spot to admire the the ‘vista’ in front.

The houses are colourful with large balconies maximising on space to admire the view of the lake and mountains. Tranquility dominates the lake side in January. I imagine that it is the perfect calm before the high season storm begins.

However the winter sun has now disappeared behind the mountains. We pulled up the zips of our winter jackets, to keep the cold out and headed back towards the main road. Behind the fire station, a lively sport field breaks the serene site.

Along the main road, the town is busy with locals chatting in the bars, rushing from one place to another. Busy traffic rushing in front of the hill covered with terraced houses facing the lake.

It was our first time visiting Brissago, however, we would love to visit in the high season, to be able compare the atmosphere between the seasons.

Brissago in summary

It was a great 2-3 hours trip (including playground pit stop, which is unavoidable with little kids). The playground is secured with a fence and has a few different features. There are many parking spots available around the town with various facilities. The trip can be stretched out to a whole day experience by visiting the Botanical Garden on the island of Brissago.

Visiting with a buggy / trailer was easy. The only challenge was to drag the trailer back up the wide stairs from the church to the main road. The stairs are really small and deep, so the passengers did not complain.

Swimming lessons

While waiting for the lesson to kick off, M had a few rounds on the water slide. She is gaining confidence in the pool. During the lesson we walk in big circles with the little ones (1 & 2 year old) across the whole lane. Each round we do a different activity. This is the quietest time in the pool. I can hear the lifeguards’ chatter faintly while focusing on blowing bubbles underwater for M’s entertainment. She is mesmerised with all the toys and busy keeping them in her hands while being pulled around in the water.

I hope next week O can join as well. He is home with flu, he needs a rest.

Back To Work

Holidays are over and M is back to his work routine. It was so nice to be together for a couple of weeks. But as anything, this is now over, which means I need to get my sh!t together again.

Winter Flu

Baby is moaning, temperature soaring above 40 degrees Celsius. Last night I called the hospital for advice. I was reassured that I can safely increase the amount of meds given to keep the fever in check. Next day, we were due for O’s one-year-old routine check up. Our paediatrician prepared me to keep fighting the fever potentially for a whole week. ‘It is flu season!’ Important to keep up the dosage every 4 hours. However, during the night I let him sleep through one 4 hour window. At 3 am I woke up for an inconsolable crying for help. His temperature was nearing 41 degrees Celsius. From that point onward I skipped zero 4 hour windows. The following night was even worst and I had to give him another med, which is like a horse kick. It takes ages to make a difference, but once it works it lasts for 24 hours. Eventually we got out of this madness by the second part of the week.

Family Pool Fun

Sunday FunDay. The pool was the busiest yet plenty of space to splash about. Four grown ups for 3 kids is a great balance in a busy pool. Huge inflatable across two lanes keep the bigger kids busy and the parents anxious. Blue elephant slide keeps M focus sharp. She is growing into a little adrenaline monkey. Sliding down, immersing under water, climbing out of the pool and starting all over again for another twenty rounds. Before she disappears behind the stairs again, but instead of appearing on the top of the slide, she is off to the baby pool. Luckily Granmy with little O are already there splashing on the tiny water fountains.