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. 💛
Expat Mom Journal 