Winter holidays with kids

Q: What precautions should parents take in cold weather and snow?

First of all, dress warmly ! Nothing is fun when you feel cold. Nevertheless, it is also important to make sure that children (and adults) have enough elbow room and that they don’t wear uncomfortable clothes. Sunscreen is an absolute must even on cloudy days as the UV radiation is reflected and intensified by the snow. Sunburns hurt just as much in winter as they do in summer.

Family time in Ötztal

We can strongly recommend holidays in Ötztal to everyone, especially to families. Tirol’s longest side valley offers many individual options and a huge variety of activities - fun and action for young and old are guaranteed here!

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What is an absolute must-do in winter?

When it comes to winter holidays with children, skiing is a must. Ski schools take care of children from the age of 3. They get in close contact with popular winter sports in a playful way. An absolute children’s dream: the Hochoetz ski area with WIDI - the sweet mascot - and family-friendly ski schools. Even the valley’s large ski areas can easily keep up when it comes to having fun on the slopes. The Sölden ski area boasts a variety of ski runs and sporting challenges, including 2 glaciers and a world cup downhill race track. The wide open and easy slopes of the Gurgl ski area are ideal for leisurely skiing days. Short jumps and first tricks can be tried on the fun slope or the fun mountain. Our small but fine ski areas in Vent, Gries and Niederthai are just perfect for all those who prefer clearly arranged and uncrowded pistes.

What activities are there for children in winter?

There are also many activities for winter holidays with children away from the ski slopes. It will never get boring in Ötztal! Snow playgrounds invite you to romp around in the snow throughout the valley. If you need a change from skiing, you should try the valley’s ice skating rinks or the natural ice on beautiful lake Piburger See. Or how about a toboggan race? Many toboggan runs are accessible by mountain lift. We can also highly recommend a short hike to one of our mountain huts, followed by a tasty and well-deserved rest stop and a fun-packed toboggan adventure. And if the weather is really inclement, a visit to AQUA DOME or Freizeit Arena Sölden is a great idea. So don't forget your swimwear!

What equipment do children need for a winter holiday?

Of course, that depends on which activities are planned. What you definitely have to take with you are warm clothes, ski underwear, ski suit, gloves and helmet. Countless rental shops within the valley can help you with further equipment: from skis to toboggans, everything for a winter holiday with children can be found here.

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Which are the best accommodations for a winter holiday with kids?

It mainly depends on how old the children are and, above all, what needs and expectations the accommodation should meet. For example, there are children's hotels that are explicitly geared to the youngest guests and offer many advantages, such as child supervision, activity programs, play areas and a lot more. You are sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your needs thanks to a selection of over 1500 hotels, apartments, guesthouses, B&Bs etc. That’s a promise!

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Which destinations are best for a winter holiday with children?

Ötztal and its huge variety of ski areas and off-piste activities, offers families everything their heart could possibly desire. No matter where exactly you will stay in Ötztal, the next adventure is usually just a stone's throw away. If the distance should be longer, our public transport lines will take you quickly and easily to the favorite destination.

What precautions should parents take in cold weather and snow?

First of all, dress warmly! Nothing is fun when you feel cold. Nevertheless, it is also important to make sure that children (and adults) have enough elbow room and that they don’t wear uncomfortable clothes. Sunscreen is an absolute must even on cloudy days as the UV radiation is reflected and intensified by the snow. Sunburns hurt just as much in winter as they do in summer.

How can you make sure that the kids stay warm and dry?

Proper clothing is the secret. We recommend the so-called "onion principle": first functional underwear that keeps you warm, then another layer (e.g. fleece jacket) and finally a waterproof anorak. Depending on the weather, you could add another layer, for example a sweater, or omit a layer on warmer days. Warm socks (e.g. ski socks) for your feet, as well as functional underwear under the ski pants are essential. Headgear such as a helmet, cap and gloves should not be missing in winter. A skiing overall would also be an option (especially for small children), so that no snow gets under the jacket when sliding and playing in the snow.

What is the best way for parents to plan and book a winter holiday with children?

It’s best to answer a few basic questions when planning your holiday with kids: do you need child supervision in the hotel or a ski school? Do you want to do something off the slopes? Equally important: do you want to cook for yourself or rather eat in the hotel restaurant? If this has been clearly discussed, you can easily book accommodation, ski tickets and adventures on oetztal.com. In case of doubt, our local experts are always happy to help if you have further questions and need personal advice.