Guide: family attractions in the German Alps

Guide: family attractions in the German Alps

July 16, 2025

The German Alps are a true paradise for families seeking an active vacation surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. This picturesque region offers an unusual combination of nature, history and adrenaline that will satisfy both the youngest and adult adventurers. From climbing in rope parks to animal encounters to exploring medieval castles, every day can be filled with new and exciting experiences. Let's explore five unique destinations that will make a family vacation in the German Alps an unforgettable experience.

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High altitude adventure and animal encounters

Hochseilgarten Füssen im Allgäu is a place that is sure to awaken the spirit of adventure in every member of the family. Located in picturesque Füssen, this impressive rope park offers trails of varying degrees of difficulty, so both children and adults will find the right challenge. The youngest can begin their adventure on routes just a meter above the ground, while older children and parents can try their hand at higher platforms, reaching up to several meters.

What sets this park apart from others? First of all, its location - it is surrounded by the Bavarian forest, and the highest platforms offer a breathtaking view of the Alpine peaks. Instructors with many years of experience take care of the safety of each participant, and modern belay equipment allows for stress-free fun even for those with a fear of heights.

The park also offers special themed trails that relate to local legends and history of the region. Children can feel like medieval knights overcoming obstacles on their way to the castle or like alpine climbers conquering mountain peaks. This is not only fun, but also experiential education.

Price-wise, Hochseilgarten Füssen is in the middle range, making it affordable for most families. It's worth planning a visit for a minimum of three hours to take full advantage of all the attractions. The park is open from spring to autumn, and during the summer season it also organizes special night climbs by moonlight - an unforgettable experience for older children and adults.

A completely different kind of attraction, but equally fascinating for children, is offered by Burgberger Tierparadies mit Kafe Kult. Located in the picturesque village of Burgberg im Allgäu, this charming mini-zoo is home to many species of animals that children can come into direct contact with. Unlike large zoos, this place focuses on close interaction and education.

The animals at Tierparadies are not kept in cages, but in spacious enclosures that mimic their natural habitat. Children can feed the alpaca goats, stroke the rabbits and guinea pigs, and even observe up close the life of a family of alpacas - animals that have become the real stars of the place. Animal keepers are eager to share their knowledge, telling fascinating stories about each zoo resident.

A unique feature of Tierparadies is the combination of the zoo with the cozy Kafe Kult café, where parents can relax with a cup of delicious Bavarian coffee while the children continue their adventure with the animals. The café's menu offers traditional Bavarian baked goods, including the famous pretzel and apfelstrudel, which are prepared according to local recipes passed down from generation to generation.

Price-wise, Burgberger Tierparadies is very affordable, making it an ideal option for an afternoon outing. You should know that the place has a rich history - it was founded by a local family of farmers who decided to share their love of animals with visitors. Today, after three generations, it is still in the hands of the same family, which cares about preserving its authentic family character.

Winter madness and historical discoveries

For families visiting the German Alps in winter, Snowpark Zermatt is a true winter sports mecca. Although technically located on the Swiss side of the border, it is easily accessible from the German part of the Alps and makes an excellent day trip destination. This renowned ski resort offers specially designed trails for the youngest, where they can take their first steps on skis or a snowboard under the guidance of experienced instructors.

Snowpark Zermatt stands out from other ski resorts for its approach to families with children. A special beginner zone 'Wolli's Park' named after the resort's mascot, Wolli the sheep, is where the little ones can safely learn to ski. The park is equipped with magic carpets (moving walkways), snow carousels and gentle slopes that make learning fun.

For more advanced young skiers, the Snowpark offers specially designed trails with small obstacles, jumps and tunnels to develop skills and confidence on the slopes. Parents can accompany their children or enjoy the more challenging trails, safe in the knowledge that their kids are well taken care of.

Interestingly, Snowpark Zermatt has a rich history associated with the pioneers of mountaineering. It was in the Zermatt area in the 19th century that British climbers began exploring Alpine peaks, and local mountain guides created the first trails that are now legendary ski runs. There is a small museum dedicated to this history in the center of the resort, which is well worth a visit during a break from skiing.

Price-wise, Snowpark Zermatt is among the more expensive ski resorts, but the quality of the trails, infrastructure and views of the famous Matterhorn fully justify the price. It is worth knowing that the resort offers special family packages, which can significantly reduce the cost of your stay.

Moving back to the German side of the Alps, make sure to stop at Kempten Tourismus, a tourist information center that is a veritable treasure trove of knowledge about the Allgäu region. This place makes an ideal first stop for families who are just planning their adventure in the German Alps.

Kempten Tourismus is no ordinary information center - it is a modern center with interactive exhibitions that present the history and culture of the region in an accessible way. Children can take a virtual tour of Allgäu's top attractions, try on traditional Bavarian costumes or play educational games related to local nature and geography.

The center's staff is a mine of knowledge about lesser-known but worthwhile places to visit. They can recommend hiking trails perfectly suited to children's ages, point out the best places for a picnic overlooking the mountains, or advise on where to taste authentic local delicacies without overpaying in tourist restaurants.

Interestingly, Kempten is one of the oldest cities in Germany, with a history dating back to Roman times. At the center, you can learn about archaeological discoveries made in the region and get a map guiding you along the trail of Roman remains, which can be a fascinating history lesson for older children.

A visit to Kempten Tourismus is free, and the benefits of the information gathered there can greatly enrich a family's stay in the Alps. The center also offers inexpensive guidebooks, maps and souvenirs related to the region.

Medieval adventure in the Burgenwelt Ehrenberg

The Burgenwelt Ehrenberg, although located on the Austrian side of the border, is easily accessible from the German part of the Alps and is a must-see for families interested in history and the Middle Ages. This impressive castle complex, also known as 'Ehrenberg Castle World,' is much more than mere ruins - it's a true journey through time that allows you to experience life in a medieval fortress with all your senses.

The history of the Burgenwelt Ehrenberg dates back to the 13th century, when the first watchtower was erected to guard an important trade route across the Alps. Over the centuries, the complex grew and eventually became a powerful fortress controlling the passage between present-day Germany and Austria. The tour begins at the modern visitor center, where an interactive exhibition introduces the fascinating history of the site.

What sets Burgenwelt Ehrenberg apart from other castles in the region? First of all, the variety of experiences it offers families. Children can take part in medieval craft workshops, where they will learn to weave baskets, create simple metal ornaments or write with a goose feather under the guidance of experienced instructors. For the brave, there are archery and fencing lessons (with safe wooden swords, of course).

One of the most exciting features of the complex is the 'highline179' - one of the longest pedestrian suspension bridges in the world, at 406 meters long, suspended 114 meters above the valley. Crossing this bridge is an unforgettable experience, combining the thrill of crossing with admiring the breathtaking views of the Alpine peaks and the Inn River valley. For families with small children or those with a fear of heights, an alternative tour is available, which also offers beautiful views.

The complex regularly hosts historical re-enactments, during which actors in medieval costumes present scenes from the daily lives of the castle's former inhabitants. Children can learn what life was like for a young squire, a lady of the manor or a craftsman. Of particular interest are falconry demonstrations, during which one can observe these majestic birds up close and learn about their role in medieval hunting.

Local legend has it that hidden in the castle's vaults is a Templar treasure that has never been found. Although historians approach this tale with caution, it provides an excellent excuse for a family 'treasure hunter's expedition' - a special field game organized within the complex, during which children solve puzzles related to the castle's history.

Pricing-wise, Burgenwelt Ehrenberg ranks in the middle range, offering different ticket packages depending on the attractions chosen. It's worth planning a full-day visit to take full advantage of all that the place has to offer. The complex also has a restaurant serving traditional Tyrolean food, where you can relax and gain strength for further sightseeing.

Comparing all the attractions described, it is worth noting that each offers a completely different kind of experience. Hochseilgarten Füssen im Allgäu and Snowpark Zermatt are places for active families looking for adrenaline and athletic challenges. Burgberger Tierparadies mit Kafe Kult provides quieter but equally fascinating encounters with animals. Kempten Tourismus provides an excellent introduction to the region, and Burgenwelt Ehrenberg combines historical education with adventure. With this variety, families can compose the perfect plan for their stay in the German Alps, tailored to the age of the children, the weather and their own preferences.

Regardless of the attractions chosen, the German Alps offer unforgettable experiences that will stay in the memory of the whole family for a long time. Majestic mountain scenery, rich history, local traditions and a friendly atmosphere make the region an ideal destination for a family vacation full of adventure and discovery.

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