Our Favourite Places & Tips for a Summer Holiday with Kids in Tirol
Advertisement: This post about family holidays in Tirol was created in collaboration with Tirol Werbung and Wilder Kaiser.
Wilder Kaiser, you’ve done it. We used to think of you mainly as a ski destination – but now you’ve revealed yourself as a true outdoor paradise in summer. And honestly? You’ve made it onto our personal best-of list in no time – packed with small adventures, real mountain moments and that special kind of family magic.
As the last patches of snow melt away, this winter hotspot transforms into a summer haven for curious explorers of all ages. Between Ellmau, Going, Scheffau and Söll, you’ll find a world that not only looks incredible but simply feels right. Hiking, climbing, biking – and pausing again and again, just because the view is too good to pass up.
If you’re planning a family holiday in Tirol, the Wilder Kaiser is a definite hit.
What to Expect at the Wilder Kaiser
The Wilder Kaiser is located in eastern Tirol, between Kufstein and St. Johann in Tirol – easily reached from Munich, Innsbruck or Salzburg. And yet, it quickly feels like a world of its own: gentle alpine pastures, rugged peaks, clear lakes, small farms and people who take their time – for guests and for good conversations.
What we love most: the mix of alpine adventure and experiences that truly excite kids. Nothing’s a must, but everything’s possible. From relaxed alpine hikes to guided climbing sessions, there’s something for everyone – whether you’re travelling with a balance bike, a child carrier or teens.
The region is deeply committed to sustainable tourism – and you can feel it. In the great public transport, in the many nature-based initiatives, and in the warm, genuine way local hosts run their small family-owned places.
Our Favourite Spots Around the Wilder Kaiser
Hexenwasser Söll – Nature Magic Without the Overload
Even the gondola ride up to Hexenwasser is an experience in itself – you don’t just get transported, you listen to stories told by the villagers along the way. At the top, the real adventure begins. With water channels, mud slides, water experiments and witches’ cellars.
At Hexenwasser, kids can play, explore and learn for hours. And like magic, they’re constantly on the move. The beautifully designed activity stations are spread out along loop trails of 1 to 2 km. While the little ones tinker and splash, the grown-ups can soak in the views of the Hohe Salve and enjoy a quiet moment on the sidelines.
Our tip: If you want to dive deeper, don’t miss the “Hexerei” – a calm space to recharge with a foot bath, herbal wisdom and sound bowls.
Good to know: Hexenwasser is part of the award-winning “Tirol Summer Mountain Lifts” – with 27 themed mountain adventures to discover across Tirol.
Climbing with Kids: From Boulder Block to Rock Wall
The Wilder Kaiser is known as one of Austria’s most traditional climbing regions – and not just for pros. Families will find a great mix of climbing gardens, indoor climbing halls and guided courses.
In Ellmau, a modern climbing hall offers kid-friendly routes, a bouldering area and Topstop belay systems – perfect for a first try, no matter the weather. Once you’re ready for the real rock, head outside to the Kaiserklettergarten or explore the family-friendly routes in the area.
Extra bonus: With the Wilder Kaiser Guest Card, public transport is included – ideal for getting to your next climbing spot in a relaxed (and eco-friendly) way.
To Hintersteiner See by E-Bike
We’ll admit it – this tour was love at first pedal. From Scheffau, you head out on an e-bike toward Hintersteiner See – one of those turquoise mountain lakes that looks like it was painted into the landscape. It’s the perfect spot for a swim break with a picnic blanket, feet in the water, and schools of fish gliding by.
Then it’s a few more gentle climbs up to the Hinterschießling Alm – a small, charming alpine hut with alpacas, rabbits, a splash-friendly fountain and down-to-earth food. Homemade spreads, Angus specialties and delicious cake just like grandma used to make – what more could you want for a perfect family day?
Bonus tip: Early risers can book a mountain breakfast with a view. From 8:30 to 10:00 a.m., you’ll get fresh bread, jam, muesli and eggs from the farm – served right on the terrace with a stunning view into the valley.
Our Accommodation Tip: Chaletdorf Leitenhof
Just a few bends above Scheffau lies the Leitenhof – a small chalet village with style, heart, and a real sense for what families truly need today. From the sauna and natural swimming pond to barbecue evenings and pottery workshops, everything here is easygoing, relaxed and thoughtfully designed.
The chalets are cosy yet modern: lots of wood, clean lines, a spacious living area with a fireplace and a private sauna for that extra dose of deep relaxation. Step outside and the family adventure begins right at the doorstep – with a petting zoo, nature playground and a playroom for rainy days. It’s all set up so kids can roam freely while parents switch into chill mode for a while.
The breakfast is a real highlight. Freshly pressed juices, regional ingredients, homemade spreads – plus Palatschinken and Eggs Benedict. Just the right fuel for a day full of outdoor fun.
And when the sun slowly sets behind the Wilder Kaiser, the kids tumble into bed with tired legs and full hearts, and you’re still sitting on the terrace with a glass in hand – that’s when you know: at the Wilder Kaiser, you’re making memories worth saving.
Good to Know for Your Family Holiday in Tirol
Best time to visit: The summer months from June to early October are ideal for all things outdoors. July and August are the busiest – for a quieter vibe, September is a great choice.
Trip length: For a first visit, 3 to 4 nights are enough to get a feel for the area. But to really soak it all in, plan for 5 to 7 days.
Getting there: By car or sustainably by train – Kufstein station is just nearby. Once you arrive, many local bus lines are free with the guest card.
The Wilder Kaiser isn’t just a region that welcomes families – it invites you to experience it with all your senses. Between alpine meadows and climbing routes, e-bike trails and tales of mountain magic, chalet charm and fluffy Kaiserschmarrn, it’s the kind of summer holiday that stays with you.
A place for everything that often gets lost in the everyday: being together, awakening the senses, discovering something new – and cherishing those little in-between moments that make it all so special.
Ready for more family adventures in Tirol?
If the Wilder Kaiser has already captured your heart – with its mountain views, magical legends and moments made for the memory jar – just wait, there’s more. Tirol is full of places that make family hearts beat faster: mountain lakes to dive into, warm-hearted hosts, and experiences that truly stay with you. Discover the best family experiences in Tirol here.
