Sledding like a pro
Why the sledding workshop in Navis is really worth it...
From energy playgrounds to accessible adventures—the best playgrounds in the Wipptal have come out of hibernation!
Spring is here—and with it, the Wipptal themed playgrounds are opening their doors once again. If you’re visiting the Wipptal with children, don’t expect artificial amusement parks—instead, you’ll find something much better: play areas with real character, nestled in a breathtaking mountain setting. We’d like to introduce you to 4 themed playgrounds that you absolutely must visit this season.
Located on the southern edge of Matrei, right next to the Sill River, is the accessible playground in Statz—and it lies directly along the bike path, making it the perfect spot for a break on your next bike ride. The accessible play equipment here actively encourages children with and without disabilities to play together. There is also a planted area where children are encouraged to “do some gardening” under supervision—and of course, the little ones can snack on the fruits they’ve grown themselves right away.
In Trins, the focus is on "energy and energy production." Informative display boards provide information on all aspects of energy in a fun and engaging way. If you need a break, you'll find comfortable loungers and tables for a picnic right by the pond.
Climbing is a big draw at Maria Waldrast. The playground in front of the inn features great climbing structures and swings—and for parents, there are shaded seating areas under large trees. Diagonally behind the church, there is also a small Kneipp facility, which is especially inviting for Kneipp therapy with the kids on hot summer days.
A hidden gem for days when the weather isn't so great: the free indoor wooden playground at JUFA Wipptal is a real hit. Right next door is the Tunnel Worlds exhibit, where, across 400 square meters, the theme of "tunnel construction" is explored in an interactive way. The exhibit is constantly updated with new elements for both kids and adults to discover.
In the Gschnitztal valley, the two water droplets Gschnitzy & Gossy tell their exciting story along the Gschnitzbach stream. Following drop-shaped signposts, you’ll experience some adventures and learn lots of interesting facts about water along the way. There’s even a riddle to solve—the reward awaits at the TVB Wipptal information office in Steinach. Since it’s a few kilometers to Gschnitz, we recommend taking a bike. The starting point is across from the Bergeralmbahn valley station, in front of the Tunnelwelten.
Apart from themed playgrounds, playing outdoors—especially by a shallow stream—is very popular with children, particularly in the summer. The Obernberg Valley and the Vals Valley are especially recommended. In the Obernberg Valley, about a 10-minute walk downstream from the parking lot at the edge of town, you’ll find beautiful shallow spots along the stream perfect for building dams and splashing around. In the Vals Valley, a 10–15-minute walk from the parking lot at the Nockeralmen leads to an idyllic forest clearing with several shallow streams—a true paradise on hot summer days.
Tip: If you are looking for more excursion options for the whole family in the Wipptal Valley, then take a look at our page with excursion destinations: www.wipptal.at/ausflugsziele