Saalbach Hinterglemm is an famous for its skiing and as a winter destination but even when skiing is not part of your family’s plans. The snowy Glemmtal valley offers some great experiences like enchanted woodland walks, sleigh rides, tobogganing and other gentle adventures suitable for toddlers and younger children, so if you have none skiing person or just fancy a day off the then try these activates for a fun filled day.
Here are eight of the best family activities to try.
8 Wonderful Winter Activities for Kids
1. Explore the Fairytale Forest
The Fairytale Forest near Hinterglemm which is short walk for bus ride from the Chalet-Hotel Christina is filled with carved characters, woodland creatures and interactive story scenes, a total of 1.4-kilometre long the trail is about right for kids to keep interest while been longer enough use up some of their energy. Early-evening is a great time to visit as it is it illuminated making it particularly magical, prefect just before or after the chalet afternoon tea.
Admission is free and the forest is accessible throughout the year. A child carrier is usually more practical than a pushchair in winter, while sturdy, non-slip footwear is essential when the path is icy. Fairytale Forest visitor information
Best for: Toddlers, preschoolers and fairy-tale fans.
2. Walk through the treetops
At the end of the valley, the Golden Gate Bridge of the Alps leads to an elevated wooden trail among the treetops. Viewing platforms and bridges make it feel like a real adventure for small children.
Open from Tuesday to Sunday, 11 a.m.–9 p.m throughout the ski season. The trail climbs up a fair height, so make sure you kids are comfortable on bridges, steps will feel the excitement of the hight. Golden Gate and Treetop Trail information
Best for: Confident walkers and children comfortable with heights.
3. Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride
This is a total classic for every ski resort. wrap up warm with blankets and travel through the snowy valley by horse-drawn sleigh. Afternoon rides towards Lindlingalm are available for families and provide a wonderfully peaceful alternative to more energetic winter activities.
Reservations are required, and Monday is normally the operator’s day off. Horse-drawn sleigh information
Best for: All ages, including toddlers needing a quieter afternoon.
4. Go family tobogganing
The Reiterkogel run in Hinterglemm and Spielberghaus run in Saalbach offer exciting mountain tobogganing. Reiterkogel is reached by cable car, while Spielberghaus can arrange an unusual ascent aboard a piste groomer to add a little extra thrill to the adventure.
These are substantial mountain runs rather than small nursery slopes. Great for those of a more adventures nature who what to experience it with their parents, this is one is sure to get come screams of joy going.
Best for: Adventurous children who can sit securely with an adult.
5. Try ice skating
A visit to the local ice rink offers a fun change of pace. Beginners can remain close to the edge while holding an adult’s hand, and older children can practise moving independently, a great one for those an wider age range is kids.
Bring you ski gloves for sure, plus any padded you have it make the tumbles more comfortable. Opening hours can vary with weather and events, so check the resort’s winter activities directory before setting out.
Best for: Children developing their balance, with close adult assistance.
6. Take a gentle winter walk
Saalbach Hinterglemm has an extensive network of cleared winter walking routes. For young children, choose a short, level section along the valley rather than an exposed mountain route.
A snow-covered walk can be turned into a simple nature hunt: look for animal tracks, frozen streams, icicles and different-shaped snowflakes. Paths can become icy, so adults should carry traction grips and use a carrier for toddlers when necessary. Winter walking information
Best for: All ages when the route is chosen carefully.
7. Spend an afternoon at Zell am See indoor pool
There is no standalone public indoor swimming pool in Saalbach Hinterglemm itself, although several hotels have pools for their guests. For a proper public swimming day, travel to the indoor pool at Zell am See, this is a short bus ride, and can be caught for just out side the Chalet-Hotel Christina.
The pool includes a dedicated toddler area, a 74-metre waterslide and a diving tower. Open daily from 11 a.m. until 9:30 p.m., in the winter. Check the timetable before travelling in case of maintenance or special closures. Zell am See indoor-pool information, plus you get see the town of Zell am See which in it's self is some to behold, make a day of the trip, to enjoy the views and more in one of the most iconic towns in the Alps.
Best for: Babies, toddlers and water-loving older children.
8. Leave time for simple snow play
Some of the best family moments need no booking or entrance ticket. Find a safe, level space away from roads and designated routes, then build a snowman, make snow angels or create a miniature snow castle.
A short hour of unstructured play is often more enjoyable for young children than a tightly packed day of organised attractions.
A final tip for parents
Plan one main activity each day and regard anything else as a bonus. Carry spare gloves, warm socks, snacks and a flask of something hot. Outdoor attractions may change their hours because of snow, ice or wind, so confirm conditions on the morning of your visit.