Family holidays in the Allgäu – Pfronten is relaxed, active, and full of surprises
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Hand on heart: Pfronten in the Allgäu truly surprised us. Who knew a holiday in Germany could be this beautiful? Surrounded by mountains and lakes – more than you can count on one hand – with unforgettable experiences for the kids and a warm, welcoming place to stay that we honestly didn’t want to leave. It’s the perfect mix for switching into family-time mode.
So if you’re planning a family holiday in the Allgäu where everyone finds their happy place – from little adventurers at the glassblower’s workshop to parents sipping chai lattes with a mountain view – then this is your spot. We’ve gathered our highlights, favorite places, and top day trip ideas for a holiday that really delivers.
Settling in at Hoimat – just the way we love to stay
Just two hours out of Munich, and that holiday feeling starts to kick in. The moment you leave the highway and begin winding your way toward the mountains. Windows down, peaks in sight, the first cows grazing in the fields. The pace slows, the excitement grows.
Arriving at the Hoimat apartments feels a bit like love at first sight. Six units, all with mountain views, all as cozy as they are beautifully styled. The amenities? Spot on.
A wine fridge in the kitchen, a private sauna in the bathroom, regional care products – everything thoughtfully curated to make you feel right at home.
The style is modern with alpine touches: plenty of wood, soft tones, clean lines. Outside, there’s a small playground – perfect for that first round of swinging, running, arriving. And right next to it, a covered outdoor lounge for the grown-ups – ideal for sipping coffee and chatting about where the next adventure might lead.
Also included: the Königscard, giving you access to over 200 free activities in the region – from mountain lifts to natural swimming spots.
A visit to the glassblower’s workshop
Instead of heading straight out on a hike, the holiday kicks off with a very special workshop visit. At Alexander Endres’ glassblowing studio, kids don’t just watch – they get to join in. Surrounded by burners, glass rods, and tools, a one-of-a-kind treasure takes shape in no time: their very own hand-blown drinking glass.
Alexander shares how glass is made and what the 2,500°C flame does – and then it’s time to blow. In the end, every child leaves with a small handmade masterpiece.
Heading up high – castle ruins with a view
On your first evening, it’s time to go a little higher – not steep, but full of views: up to Falkenstein Castle. A gentle path takes you the final stretch to the ruins – all that’s left of a castle once eyed by King Ludwig II himself.
At the top: wide-open views of the Vils Valley and the surrounding peaks. The kids climb through the remains of the fortress, and afterwards, it’s time for a drink at the Blaue Burg. This hotel right next door is full of culinary surprises – from fries and sausages outdoors to refined regional cuisine in the restaurant, or even a meal at the in-house Michelin-starred restaurant. The choice is yours.
Long ears & lightness – a morning with donkeys
As the sun slowly rises over the mountains, fresh pretzels from the local organic bakery taste even better out on the balcony.
Today’s plan includes something truly special: a donkey walk. At Nici’s farm, Gustl and Klausi – two donkeys with more zen than your average meditation coach – are already waiting. The kids brush, cuddle, and proudly lead their four-legged friends through the moor.
The loop takes about an hour – just enough time to slow down and soak it all in. Along the way, Nici shares lovely stories about her animals, who even join her on holiday trips.
Definitely one of the most heartwarming family experiences in the Allgäu.
Tropical dreams at the Butterfly House in Pfronten
After a little break, head over to the Allgäu’s enchanting Butterfly Experience World. Warm, humid air, lush greenery, and vibrant butterflies fluttering all around you.
The kids fall quiet, their eyes following a butterfly as it lands gently on a flower. Friendly staff are happy to explain how a caterpillar transforms into a butterfly and how long each species lives. And don’t miss the slow-paced turtles shuffling through their enclosure – always a hit with little animal lovers.
Hopfensee vibes – pedal boats, ice cream & sun-drenched moments
Just 20 minutes by car brings you to Hopfensee – possibly the most charming spot for a little break. Grab an ice cream from Café Seaside, settle by the shore, and watch the lake shimmer in the sun. It feels like the south of Europe right here.
If you’re up for it, rent a pedal boat and glide across the water – on clear days, you might even spot Neuschwanstein Castle in the distance. And when the sun’s out, don’t hesitate: Hopfensee is an officially designated swimming lake, perfect for a refreshing dip.
Dinner at Fallmühle – Regional, down-to-earth, and full of flavor
For dinner, head to the Gasthof Fallmühle. The menu is honest and regional – with game dishes, homemade spelt noodles, and the kind of cosy atmosphere that invites you to linger.
Back at your accommodation, it’s time for a glass of wine, feet up – and the calm of night settling gently over a day well spent.
Mountain moments at their best – adventure hiking on Breitenberg
A day that’s all about summit joy. Take the Breitenberg cable car for a relaxed ride up – and then the Hochalpbahn to climb even higher. From there, a partly steep but wonderfully scenic trail leads to the Ostlerhütte in about 40 minutes.
At the top, you’ll be greeted not just by the summit and a terrace with panoramic views stretching into Austria, but also by exactly what you crave after a hike: homemade Kaiserschmarrn topped with flower petals, or a chai latte with a view.
The way back leads along the Juwelenweg – a 2.5-kilometre adventure trail with interactive stations, fun challenges, and hands-on nature experiences. There’s balancing, guessing, climbing – and the best part? The kids don’t even realise they’re hiking.
One last gem hunt at the playground by the Hochalp hut – then it’s time to hop on the cable car and glide back down into the valley.
© Vipasana Roy
