Tag: switzerland

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. 💛

Family Road Trip Through the Historic St. Gotthard Pass: A Swiss Alpine Adventure with Kids

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Trip Duration: 4 – 6 hours ⛰️ Difficulty Level: Easy 🚸 Trip Date: 28 June 2025

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!

🌸 Happy travels from our family to yours!

San Bernardino, Switzerland: Our Secret Summer Escape with Kids

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San Bernardino village river bank with bridge by sport center

Trip Duration: 6 hours ⛰️ Difficulty Level: Easy & Buggy-Friendly 🚸 Trip Date: 24 June 2025
Highest Point: 2065 m (Laghetto Moesola)
Lowest Point: 1602 m (Lago D’Isola)

Last year, we passed through San Bernardino countless times while moving from Thurgau to Ticino. But this time, we returned with a purpose — to escape the heatwave that was blanketing Lake Maggiore. And we found our perfect alpine oasis.

With three young kids (ages 6, 3, and 1), we’re always on the lookout for stroller-friendly adventures, and this one turned out to be a winner. Trail 643, listed on the San Bernardino Resort website, promised a buggy-friendly path, and it did not disappoint. If you’re a family looking for an easy, cool mountain walk, read on.

🚗 Getting There & Parking

We reached San Bernardino village from Ticino in under an hour. Even on a hot summer day, the temperature here (26°C) felt refreshing and much easier to handle than down by the lake.

The village offers plenty of parking options, and everything felt accessible and well signposted. This made it easy to get everyone out of the car and onto the trail without stress.

🛤️ Trail 643: Exploring the Lago D’Isola Loop

Our adventure began near the adventure park and playground at the edge of the village. From there, we set off around Lago D’Isola, keeping the lake on our right.

We planned to stay on Trail 643 — but the scenery quickly distracted us! Wildflowers, waterfalls, and fluttering butterflies led us slightly off-course (in the best way possible), cutting the loop a little shorter but making the day even more magical.

Highlights along the trail:

  • 🛝 Playground & Adventure Park
  • 🚴 Pump Track & Sports Center
  • 🎾 Tennis courts
  • 💪 Exercise stations tucked into the forest
  • 🦋 Butterflies, wildflowers, and fascinating slate piles
  • 🌉 A wooden bridge crossing over the motorway
  • 💧 Alpine fountains, a water dam, and hidden beaches
  • 🚻 A public wooden toilet cabin
  • 🪑 Many benches to rest and bins to keep it tidy
  • 🏔️ Nonstop majestic mountain views

It’s a sensory wonderland — and all of it accessible with our trailer buggy. The trail was wide and mostly flat, with plenty of breaks and natural stops for the kids to rest, snack, or run wild.

🏔️ Laghetto Moesola: A High-Altitude Pause

After our lake loop, we took a short scenic drive up the San Bernardino Pass to Laghetto Moesola — sitting above 2000m. The landscape here is dramatically different: treeless, raw, and rocky.

We parked right by the road (ample space on both sides) and enjoyed a leisurely rest by the crystal-clear lake. A nearby guesthouse provided toilets and refreshments, which was a big bonus.

Slate stones were everywhere — and our kids were thrilled. While our youngest loved toppling over mini towers, the older two competed to build the tallest stack. Simple fun, high up in the mountains.

📷 Final Stop: Grand Tour of Switzerland Photo Spot

Before heading home, we made a quick detour to the Grand Tour of Switzerland photo spot. It’s perched on a hill and offers a postcard view of the pass from above — the perfect family photo opportunity to end the day.

🧺 Practical Tips for Parents

Stroller access: ✅ Trail 643 is buggy-friendly. A trailer or off-road stroller is ideal.
Toilets: Available in the village and on the trails.
Food: A few restaurants in the village. We packed snacks and water.
Shade: Yes — especially along the lakeside path.
Safety: The area felt very safe for families.
Best season: Summer. Bring layers — mountain weather can shift quickly.

❓ FAQs for Families Planning a Visit

Is the trail flat and stroller-friendly the whole way?
Mostly, yes. Some natural paths may have gentle bumps or tree roots, but nothing extreme.

Are dogs allowed on the trail?
Yes, on a leash. We saw many happy four-legged friends along the way.

Can we swim in the lake?
There are shallow areas at Lago D’Isola where you can wade in — but it’s chilly! Great for a quick cool-down. We also saw people getting into Lahgetto Moesola, however it felt much colder for us.

Is the Pass drive safe for kids prone to motion sickness?
The curves are mild, but we’d suggest frequent stops (like at Laghetto Moesola!) and plenty of fresh air.

💛 Why We Loved It

This trip reminded us why we love living in Switzerland: there’s always a hidden gem just around the corner. San Bernardino offered us a cool escape, a stroller-accessible trail, and unforgettable views, all wrapped up in a peaceful, uncrowded setting.

If you’re looking for your next family-friendly alpine outing — especially during a heatwave — San Bernardino might just be your new summer favourite.

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

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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!

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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

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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!

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Paradise at the End of the Tunnel

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River bank in the sunset

An impromptu discovery. Light at the end of the tunnel that leads into a local paradise.

Light at the end of the tunnel
Boy in the dark tunnel
Boy is leaving the dark tunnel

Growing up in various big cities, it was unimaginable to enter a tunnel system like this when I was a child. Life in a valley brings change of scenery. Tunnels like this help the rain water tickle down the mountains to the river. It is safe most of the year, but of course the devil never sleeps.

Boy in the tunnel system

My brave son and his grandfather explored the underground system by the time I caught up with them at the playground. His face lit up when he saw me and finally could share his new findings with me. He immediately called me to return underground with him. So we did. I wasn’t expecting such a pretty view after walking through a few dark round tunnels.

River bank in the sunset at Golino, Ticino, Switzerland
River bank in the sunset at Centovalli, Ticino, Switzerland

Out in the fresh air again, we slid down a few large water washed rocks to get to the riverbank. Complete tranquil scene greeted us. We filled our lungs clean fresh air. Warmed our skin in the setting sun. I could had spent hours sitting there listening to the melody of the River Melezza.

Father’s Day at Monte Generoso, Ticino, Switzerland

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Cog train at Capolago

We set off to visit Monte Generoso in Ticino on Father’s Day. On this cold but sunny day, the sat nav guided us to the train station, where signposts helped us find the designated car park for the attraction.

Cog train at the Capolago train station.

An orange and blue cog train was ready at the Capolago train station. The very first train departed at 10:15 AM, carrying many hikers on board. A German lady sat next to me, fully equipped for an all-weather hike. Her backpack was packed with essentials, and she had foldable walking sticks attached to its side. She explained that she planned to take the train to Bellavista, from where she would hike up to the summit. Bellavista is the station just before the last one, situated at 1,223 meters. From there, it’s almost a 500-meter elevation gain on a snowy path to Fiore Di Pietra, which stands at 1,704 meters.

Ascent

The train carried a large open container in front of the wagon. Passengers could place their tools, backpacks, or strollers and trailers there. By leaving bulky items outside in this container, boarding was much easier.

The wagon had two row seats facing each other, which is perfect for a group of four. Our train was almost full, but eventually we settled down. The train set off on time and departed on its 9 km journey on the steep slopes slowly climbing up and up. There were 3 stops along the 40 minutes ride.

The departure felt like the takeoff of a plane. The train slowly ascended the hill, crossing several roads along the way. Looking out the window on one side, the mountain was almost within arm’s reach, whereas the valley we had left behind was visible only if we stood up from our seats. As the train continued through the forest, it passed through many tunnels. The horn sounded before each entrance, alerting passengers to the darkness ahead.

Arriving to the top through the clouds with the cog train.

After passing through the bare forest, we finally reached the snow level and slowly everything around us turned white. The trails were well signed for hikers, but mostly covered with snow. By the time we pulled into the final station, the snow was thick and strong on the ground.

Fiore di Pietra

The cog train stops right in front of the ‘stone flower’ building. Although, I can see the concept of the flower bulb when looking at the building, but to me, it looked like a rocket station. Standing out tall from the bare snowy mountain top. Surrounded by the blue sky and some white clouds. The antennas of the weather station in the area were just adding more to this futuristic picture.

The ground was covered in snow, piled as high as the benches, which made our stroll a bit challenging. After a quick round on the cloud swing, we decided to head in the opposite direction. We took the elevator with the buggy to the terrace of the Fiore di Pietra building. From the terrace, we navigated around the playground and found the path leading up to the “Grand Tour” sign.

Grand Tour

Grand Tour sign on Monte Generoso

The snowy, steep path had a rope handrail on the left, and at the edge was an opening to the valley, which felt both exciting and dangerous. Obsessed with taking photos at the Grand Tour sign, we took our time as we gradually ascended. To our right, the peak was covered in long grass beneath a blanket of snow. Our eldest found some huge icicles where the grass hung off the stones. With the sun at its highest, we could hear the water dripping from the melting icicles. The atmosphere was quiet, with our heavy breaths mingling with the sound of dripping water and occasional giggles whenever we slipped on the melting snow. Reaching the sign was a challenge with a baby strapped to my front, but we managed to get there.

There was no way to push the buggy up to the viewing point, it was a walk and carry path for those with little kids in the crew.

Bellavista

On the way down we had brunch at the Bellavista Buffet restaurant. With the train stopping right at the entrance of the restaurant, we created a bit of a traffic jam. With the warmest welcome from the waitresses, we were seated at our table. The place and the set up reminded me to the English pubs. Bare tables with a quirky table numbers made out of the cog of the train track. Buffet style set up with help yourself stations, just like a good old Sunday roast in England.

Across from the restaurant, there is a lovely lookout terrace with benches to relax while enjoying the magnificent view. We took the next train down as the kids started to get overtired.

Descent

The journey from Bellavista to Capolago took only 25 minutes. The leaves on the ground glowed golden in the sunlight, making the forest look stunning. After passing through tunnel after tunnel, we finally returned to the village. Following two more road crossings, the train came to a complete stop. Just like on an aerplane, passengers were eager to disembark as soon as possible.

We haven’t left the village yet, when both little ones were snoozing loudly in the car. Mission accomplished – I thought. I know they won’t remember. But they can listen to the stories of our mini adventures and look at the photos and videos we are making.

Why We Love Monte Generoso

Playing in the snow is number one on our eldest’s list. He told me we must return in the summer, so he can try the playground on the top of the mountain, and go all the way up to the very top look out, which was not possible due to the snowy circumstances. So be aware a summer version of this trip will come to your way sooner or later.

Our daughter would definitely include swinging in the clouds on her list. She really enjoyed going back and forth on the long swing at the top of the mountain.

The train ride felt like an attraction in itself, reminiscent of a miniature train at a funfair with kids. We passed through numerous small tunnels, holding our breath at the sound of the horn until we emerged into the light on the other side.

TreeTop Walkway – Baumwipfelpfad – Neckertal – Switzerland

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Hosting Challenge – Finding Things To Do in November

Hosting guests from abroad at the end of November presents challenges when it comes to selecting places to visit. Choosing an outdoor location that both toddlers and adults can enjoy in any weather is not easy. The limited number of days to make it happen adds to the pressure of the decision-making process.

Treetop Walkway Neckertal

I was searching for a new outdoor adventure when I stumbled upon a place in Neckertal with an unpronounceable name. I had heard a lot about forest detox trips and nature tourism, and I would definitely categorize this attraction within that realm. It’s also educational!

Treetop walkway pictured from the ground

Reading up on their website, I got immediately intrigued. It is a truly a unique project. Should you wish to know more about the architecture of the attraction, click on the link here.

Take a look at their map to see all the aspects it has to offer.

Our Visit

We arrived on a rainy day in November. We almost had the whole place to ourselves, with just a handful of other families wandering around the site.

Information Board

We parked the car and followed the signs to the entrance. Along the way, we passed a few houses and a self-service souvenir shop. It is quite common in Switzerland to find a self-service shop near attractions, whether they are natural, like the mountains, or man-made, like our destination for the day. Personally, I am still amazed by this cultural tradition and have a greater admiration and respect for Swiss culture. I don’t think this concept would last long in many other countries.

Souvenir Shop

The receptionist recommended that we visit the treetop walkway track first before exploring the ground trail. The view from the walkway was stunning, even on a gray, rainy autumn day. The upper path was filled with activity stations, balancing games, and even a few marble runs, which kept our little ones entertained while we browsed through the information boards. Along the path, we found snippets of interesting facts tied into the games, making it easy to enjoy without feeling overwhelmed by the end.

The ground trail took us beneath the treetop walkway, following the wooden marble run stations. Between the stations, we spotted several wooden carvings of animals with their babies. Although we haven’t visited it yet, the lower part of the trail features a playground and a relaxation area for visitors.

Both upper and lower trails are filled with large wooden benches.

Once we tested out all the marble run stations, we opted for a warm soup at the cafe.

Why We Loved Baumwipfelpfad

First and foremost, the attraction is fully accessible. We visited with a double stroller and small toddlers and encountered no issues accessing all areas. The treetop walk is wide and spacious, making it easy to navigate. Additionally, the path below has smooth terrain, which is perfect for stroller wheels.

Secondly, the balancing games along the walkway were a fantastic way to draw our attention back from the magnificent view of the treetops. They not only helped us balance our bodies but also engaged our senses. We shifted our focus from the vast expanse above the forest to our own small selves within nature.

Thirdly, it features its own wooden marble run track and playground. Wooden balls can be purchased at the café and souvenir shop. The playground is located in the forest, providing cool shade on hot summer days. For adults, there are plenty of benches available to relax while the children play.

Lastly, I loved that all the activity stations were presented in three languages: German, Italian, and English. As an expat mom, I really appreciate places where information is available in English. Although I speak Italian, I prefer to read in English when it’s an option. Would I visit this place again? Absolutely, no matter the weather!

Wind and Sun kissed cheeks: Ascona in the Winter

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Home of Jazz

Choppy waters on Lake Maggiore and an icy February wind welcomed us to Ascona. One might expect this in winter.

Yet, the brightness and warmth of the sun tricked us into believing that spring had arrived. The golden light that embraced Ascona in the early afternoon should have made the chill more bearable. But the wind, sharp and relentless, stripped away all comfort.

Our woolly hats, meant to keep us warm, barely fulfilled their purpose. Still, I can’t imagine how we would have coped without them.

Home of Jazz

Music and Art

This small town is home to the renowned Jazz Ascona Festival, which takes place every year from late June to early July. With over 15 concerts per day, the festival draws visitors from around the world. Uniquely, it is the only festival outside the U.S. officially linked to New Orleans jazz.

Walking through Ascona, you can feel its artistic soul. The streets and colourful houses bear the imprint of the many artists who have performed here over the years.

Blend of Italian charm and Swiss precision

One of my favorite things about Ascona is its car-free lakeside promenade, the LungoLago. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, where cafés and restaurants line the waterfront. Even the icy wind couldn’t keep visitors from admiring Lake Maggiore’s shimmering expanse.

In this video, we take you along Ascona’s cobblestone alleys, down to the lake, where we walk with the colorful facades of cafés and houses on one side and the deep blue waters of Lake Maggiore on the other. Our journey leads to the playground before circling back to explore the port and the town’s charming, narrow streets.

Why We Love Ascona

Ascona is Switzerland’s lowest town, sitting just 196 meters above sea level. Thanks to this unique location, it enjoys a mild climate year-round.

Each visit feels like a new experience—a place of sunshine and tranquility in winter, and of heat and lively crowds in summer. The traffic-free waterfront makes it an ideal destination for families, offering a safe space for little ones to roam freely.

With ice cream on every corner and countless spots to relax, Ascona has something for everyone. Whether you’re indulging in local delicacies or simply soaking up the sun, this lakeside gem offers the perfect escape—any time of the year.

Family Adventures: Snowy Roads and Swiss Waterfalls

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This week we set out to visit two beautiful waterfalls in Ticino. Do you think we made it? … Read on to find out.

Back to Ticino, and Back to Kindergarten, Catching up with Friends, Visiting Maggia, and Valle Verzasca, and a Birthday Celebration.

Back to Ticino

Week two of 2025 started off with a road trip back from Poland to Ticino. As we got to the Alps, we drove through the most beautiful snowfall. Crossing the border from Austria to Switzerland there was no sign of snow. We could see the mountains far away glowing with their white snowcaps. An hour later when we started the ascent to St Bernardino along the crooked road, the snow started to settle on the asphalt. Traffic was light so we had minimal distraction until we got to the other side of the tunnel.

On the southern side of the tunnel snow covered everything. At this point there was no snowplough in sight. Throughout the serpentine, the descent took a long time. Winter tyres did an excellent job for us. However a few cars in front of us an Italian car had to stop to wait for rescue services (summer tyres – I guess).

We don’t have too much experience driving in the snow, especially in the mountains. Luckily everyone was going sensibly throughout our journey. At home we were greeted with hot dinner made by my parents. Little treat to the soul, when you don’t have to think about feeding the fam after two long days of travelling.

The following days were filled with various tasks around the house to get it into shape before our friends arrived. I think one day I did six loads of laundry just to give you an idea of the mess we had post holiday.

Back to Kindergarten

Kindergarten started midweek with half a day session. Easing back into the classroom routine was smoother this time than after autumn break. B can communicate much better now in Italian thanks to the lessons and the friendships he made in the last four months. Our nervous boy turned into a confident cheeky italianish-speaking boy.

Birthday Celebration

O turned one this week. Celebration was planned for the weekend. However, winter flu caught up on our little boy by the end of the week. With a temperature over 40 degrees celsius, he wasn’t enjoying much of his first birthday celebration.

Catching up with Friends

Hosting has become the highlights of my year. Since I am a full time stay at home Mom, I appreciate all the connections I get even more than before. Days fly by so quick with three little ones in tow.

I love the anticipation (cleaning / tidying). I love the meal planning and preparation process. Choosing things to do and places to explore. While adjusting the rhythm to suit 4-6 grownups and 4 kids (1-2-3-6) and the coolest dog and cat. Life is never dull.

Maggia

This time we visited a little village of Maggia. With the goal to visit the Cascata del Salto first then to head down to the river for a stroll. Little we knew that the waterfall is not accessible with buggy. Indeed it is a hiking trail gem. With the help of the locals, our crew quickly changed direction and headed to the river, Maggia. Dads took the cars, and Moms took the kids and the dog. Down in the village behind Migros, the suspension bridge, called Pontine di Maggia, leads across the Maggia river. The shore on the other side is easily accessible even with tiny feet (not with buggy though).

Overall, Maggia is a small village with about 2.5 k residents. It seems to be a good base for the many trials. There are many parking spots, convenience stores and restaurants. Looking at the mountains from the car park, I could see some chapels and waterfalls that I would have loved to explore but they were not accessible with a buggy. I am sure we will be back though.

Our tiny humans, and the doggy had plenty of space to roam. Hence, on the way home, they have all fallen asleep in the car. It’s impossible to plan a second stop when your passengers are snoozing. We called it a day and headed home.

Valle Verzasca

Set off as early as possible to catch the couple of hours of sunshine that reaches Valle Verzasca in January. First stop was Sonogno. The village is at the northern part of the valley. Parking was free of charge this time around. Although, the reminders for paying for parking in the high season were displayed everywhere. There is an option to buy a whole day parking ticket that covers the whole valley.

We were not prepared for the snow but it was very welcomed. We are yet to learn to plan properly, considering the elevation level. There was a crisp line showing the start of the snow on the trees and rocks. The divide was visible from far away.

While walking around in Sonogno we met a local gentleman, who was ever so chatty and helpful. He told us that this time of the year we can grab something to eat by the sport center. We quizzed him a little about the surroundings. He told us that when he was little snow was covering the area for most of the winter, however in the recent decade snow is less and less. We set out to look at the Cascata La Froda, however he told us that it is unlikely that we find any water running, but may be some ice. He also pointed out that the path is free from services during the winter but encouraged to see it for ourselves. So we did.

Turning right at the sport center, the road was clear until the next turn. Then it was clearly marked that no winter clearing services are in operation. First we tried to pull the buggy / trailer through the snow. Then we decided to ditch it and carry the kiddies. Following the map we got to the point where we should have crossed the river. However, there was no clear access to the other side. We decided to return to the car park, feed the empty bellies, and move onto the destination.

Verzasca Dam

Ever so famous dam appeared in the opening part of the James Bond movie ‘GoldenEye’. Mostly known as Verzasca dam is called Contra Dam or Locarno Dam. It is a popular spot amongst the adrenaline seekers. The dam is 220 m tall and has a well-known bungee jumping station. This year the dam has hosted the Red Bull dual ascent climbing event. Where ten teams of twenty climbers tackled 180 m route.

It is really hard to put into words how small one can feel standing on the dam, with huge opening in front of him / her when looking out to the Lake Maggiore. On the other side, Lake Vogolno holds a terrifying power of distraction should the anything happen to the structure of the surroundings. Running out of daylight, we have returned to home and warmed up with some homemade soup.

There are many places we wished we could further explore. However, due to our young crew, we need to limit our stops to two, maximum three. We aim to extend the time spent outdoors and the number places visited as the kids grow.

Two more family friends are visiting in the next few weeks. I am very much looking forward to these. Look out for more updates on our adventures with our tiny humans.