Family adventures in Val di Funes: 10 attractions that kids and parents will love
April 11, 2025
Dear families, get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Italian Dolomites! Val di Funes is a true paradise for small and big explorers, where nature delights at every turn and tradition intertwines with modernity. In our guide we will introduce you to 10 unique attractions that will make your family vacation full of joy, fun and unforgettable moments. From scenic trails to fascinating viewpoints, each place you visit will leave an indelible mark in your hearts. Get ready to discover the mysteries of Alpine nature, admire majestic peaks and learn about local culture in a way that will delight both children and parents. Val di Funes is not just a place on the map - it's a land where family bonds are strengthened amid breathtaking landscapes. We invite you on a journey that will spark your imagination, provide lots of fun and create memories for a lifetime!
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Natural wonders of Val di Funes
Our adventure begins in the heart of the Val di Funes valley, which impresses with its natural beauty and variety of attractions for the whole family. It is a place where the majesty of the mountains meets the idyllic landscape of alpine meadows, creating the perfect setting for unforgettable family moments.
The first point of our trip is the Val di Funes valley itself, also known as Villnöß. It's a place of unique charm that impresses with its authenticity and tranquility. The valley is surrounded by the imposing peaks of the Dolomites, making it an ideal destination for both active vacationers and those who simply want to relax surrounded by nature. Families can choose from a variety of easy trails, such as the St. Magdalena Panorama Trail, which offers breathtaking views of the valley and its iconic churches. It's an ideal route for families with children, as it's relatively easy and short (about 6 km round trip), while still allowing you to enjoy beautiful panoramas.
Another place that is sure to delight the whole family is Ausgangspunkt Wanderrouten. This is an excellent base for excursions of varying degrees of difficulty. For families with children, we especially recommend the route to Malga Zannes, which takes about 40 minutes of leisurely walking. Along the way you can admire the alpine meadows and forests, and there is a pleasant mountain restaurant where you can relax and enjoy local delicacies. It is worth mentioning that there is also an Adventure Park in the area, which can be a great alternative to classic hiking.
Not to forget the spectacular Seceda Ridgeline, which, while it may be too challenging for the youngest tourists, is sure to delight older children and parents. This place offers some of the most impressive views in the Dolomites. You can get to the top by cable car, which is an attraction for children in itself. At the top, a panorama that will take your breath away awaits you - the sharp peaks of Geislerspitzen looking like the teeth of a giant dragon against the blue sky. This is the perfect place for a family photo shoot and learning about geology in the most spectacular setting imaginable.
Each of these places offers unique experiences and sights that will long be remembered by the whole family. Val di Funes isn't just about beautiful scenery, it's also a chance to explore nature's secrets together, learn about local culture and traditions, and spend time in an active and educational way. Remember to adapt the pace and choice of routes to the abilities of the youngest members of the family, so that everyone can enjoy this extraordinary adventure in the heart of the Dolomites.
Picturesque viewpoints and hidden gems
Continuing our family adventure in Val di Funes, we can't leave out some absolutely unique places that will delight both children and adults. Each offers unique experiences and views that will stay in your memory for a long time.
Let's start with Panorama di Santa Maddalena, a place that is a true icon of Val di Funes. This vantage point offers one of the most recognizable views in the Dolomites - the picturesque church of St. Magdalena against the majestic peaks of the Odle/Geisler group. It's the perfect place for a family picnic and a photography lesson for the little ones. It's worth coming here at sunset, when the last rays of the sun paint the mountains gold and pink, creating an almost fairy-tale-like setting. Access to the viewpoint is relatively easy, making it ideal for families with young children.
For those who want a slightly more exciting experience, a visit to the Cascata di Valluzza is recommended. This 45-meter waterfall is a true natural wonder that is sure to impress any member of the family. Although getting to the waterfall requires a short but fairly steep hike (about 20-25 minutes), the view of the falling water and the opportunity to cool off on a hot day are well worth the effort. Remember, however, to be careful on the slippery stones and to hold children's hands.
Another fascinating site is La sedia nel bosco, or 'The Chair in the Forest.' It's an unusual wooden sculpture that sits on the path connecting the Zannes parking lot to the Dusler mountain hut. This place is like taken out of a fairy tale - a huge wooden chair in the midst of a forest grove provides a great backdrop for family photos and stimulates the imagination of the little ones. It can be a starting point for conversations about art, nature and environmental protection.
We can't forget the Naturerlebnisweg Zans, or Zans Nature Path. This place is specially designed for families and educating the little ones. Along the route are interactive educational stations that teach about local flora, fauna and geology in a fun way. Here children can observe butterflies, learn about different plant species or learn about animal life in the mountains. The path is easy and safe, ideal even for toddlers.
Last but not least on this part of our trip is Viewpoint Bench Panorama. This is a place where a unique bench overlooking the valley and mountains awaits families. Getting here requires a short walk from the cable car station, but the views are worth it. This is the perfect place to relax, contemplate the beauty of nature and take a souvenir photo of the whole family.
Each of these places offers something unique, from spectacular views to educational experiences. Remember to tailor your tour plan to your children's abilities and interests. In Val di Funes, every day can be a new adventure that not only entertains, but also teaches and inspires. Whether you choose a relaxing picnic overlooking the mountains or an exciting trip to a waterfall, these shared moments are sure to become priceless memories for the whole family.
Hidden gems and practical tips
To conclude our fascinating journey through Val di Funes, we'd like to introduce you to a few more places that will round out your family trip, and share some practical tips to help you fully enjoy this remarkable valley.
One of the last but extremely charming spots on our map is Bester Blick auf die Kirche St. Johann in Ranui. This spot offers the best view of the famous church of St. John in Ranui, which is one of the most photographed buildings in the Dolomites. Importantly, this view is available free of charge, just a minute's walk from the parking lot. It's an ideal place for a short visit, especially if you're traveling with young children or seniors. The best time to visit is in the evening, when the light of the setting sun paints the church's facade and the surrounding mountains in warm colors. Remember, however, that the church itself is located on private property, so respect the boundaries and enjoy the view from a designated point.
Now for some practical tips to help you fully enjoy your stay in Val di Funes:
- route planning: Before setting out on a trail, always check the current weather conditions and adapt the route to the capabilities of the youngest family members. A lot of information can be found at local tourist information centers or apps such as SudTirol Outdoor.
2 Equipment: Even in the summer in the mountains, the weather can change quickly. Always pack warm clothes, rain jackets, comfortable trekking shoes and enough water and snacks.
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transportation: Val di Funes is well connected by public transportation. Consider purchasing the Val di Funes Card, which offers free bus rides and discounts on many attractions.
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Respect for nature: Teach your children the principles of Leave No Trace - take all trash with you, don't stray from the trails and respect wildlife.
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Local Delicacies: Be sure to try local specialties in mountain refuges. This is a great opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the region.
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Time to relax: Despite the many attractions, remember to take time to relax. Sometimes the most beautiful moments are those spent simply on a picnic overlooking the mountains.
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Safety: Always inform someone about your hiking plans and check the closing times of trails or cable cars.
Val di Funes is a place where there is something for every family. From easy walks to scenic viewpoints, educational nature trails to more challenging trails for older children, every day can be a new adventure. Remember that the most important thing is spending time together and enjoying the beauty of the nature around you. Whether you choose an active vacation or quietly admiring the scenery, Val di Funes is sure to steal your hearts and create memories you will return to for years to come.
We wish you unforgettable family adventures in this fabulous valley of the Dolomites!
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