When animals can be observed or petted at the end of a hike – or maybe even during the hike – our kids’ motivation to hike is even higher. On the South Tyrolean pastures, you’ll often find grazing cows, and many mountain huts also have petting zoos with alpacas, llamas, donkeys, goats, or rabbits. Please be careful and respectful when interacting with the animals!
Hikes with Animals
Trails where kids can meet animals
Rainguthof Animal World – Petting Zoo in Gfrill near Merano
Cheeky goats, curious deer, and colorful peacocks – at Rainguthof in Gfrill near the Gampen Pass, young animal lovers are in for a treat. Petting, feeding, and marveling are not just allowed – they’re encouraged!
Region: Burgraviato
Categories: With animals, stroller-friendly, with playground
Seasons: Spring, summer, autumn, winter
— learn more
Categories: With animals, stroller-friendly, with playground
Seasons: Spring, summer, autumn, winter
— learn more
Family hike to Häusler Sam in the Dolomites
This family-friendly hike leads through stunning Dolomites scenery to Häusler Sam, with views of the Latemar and Catinaccio ranges, animals around the hut, and a small play area for children.
Region: The Dolomites Region (Val d’Ega)
Categories: Stroller-friendly, with playground, with animals
Seasons: Summer
— learn more
Categories: Stroller-friendly, with playground, with animals
Seasons: Summer
— learn more
Hike to the Fairytale Playground on the Villandro Alp
Nestled in the forest, you'll discover numerous fairytale characters carved into tree trunks and a charming playground, reached by a scenic 20-minute hike on the Villandro Alp (Villanderer Alm).
Region: Isarco Valley
Categories: Stroller-friendly, with playground, with animals, forest playgrounds & Adventure playgrounds
Seasons: Spring, summer, autumn, winter
— learn more
Categories: Stroller-friendly, with playground, with animals, forest playgrounds & Adventure playgrounds
Seasons: Spring, summer, autumn, winter
— learn more
Hike to the Inner Falkomai Alpine Hut (Innere Falkomai-Alm) in the Ultental Valley
A beautiful hike along a mountain stream that leads to a charmingly rustic alpine hut, complete with handmade wooden play equipment – including a zip line! There are plenty of animals to see, and in the late afternoon, visitors can even help with feeding time upon request.
Region: Burgraviato
Categories: For super-motivated kids, with animals, with playground, by the water
Seasons: Summer
— learn more
Categories: For super-motivated kids, with animals, with playground, by the water
Seasons: Summer
— learn more
Tuff Hut near Fiè
The Tuff alpine hut is a true paradise for children. After a short hike, you reach the hut, which features a petting zoo and a playground, nestled in a breathtaking mountain setting.
Region: The Dolomites Region (Altopiano dello Sciliar)
Categories: Stroller-friendly, with playground, with animals
seasons: Spring, summer, autumn
— learn more
Categories: Stroller-friendly, with playground, with animals
seasons: Spring, summer, autumn
— learn more
