3 exciting destinations for big and small explorers
Children love to learn new things and are constantly pestering their parents with the strangest questions: How did they once live? How did Ötzi hunt? How do trees grow? If you don't want to read the answers to these questions in books or on the Internet but would like to discover them together as a family during a wonderful holiday in South Tyrol, we have three tips for you today.
The first and third recommendations will delight nature lovers in particular, the second will delight history and culture enthusiasts. All 3 of today's destinations will teach you and your children something more in a fun and interesting way.
Museum of Natural Sciences
A visit to the South Tyrol Natural Sciences Museum in Bozen is always an exciting experience for young and old, thanks to its permanent and temporary exhibitions. From 26 October 2024 until 12 October next year, it will be possible to explore the temporary exhibition 'Al Pascolo', which explores the history and culture of pastoralism. You will be able to observe scenes of the serene life of shepherds and grazing animals, moments of hard work facing adverse weather conditions and often difficult environments.
Humans began to settle in the Alps with their animals in the post-glacial period. The exhibition includes sculptures, models, games, interviews and videos highlighting the activities of shepherds and their dogs, offering insights into the cultural practice of shepherding and the fundamental role of shepherds, who protect the flock not only from wolves. Indeed, pastoralism has a significant impact on the environment, biodiversity, animal welfare, climate and human nutrition.
Return to the Stone Age
In the archaeological open-air museum archeoParc Schnals, visitors of all ages can discover how people lived in these mountainous regions some 5,300 years ago. Close to the place where Ötzi, the famous Iceman, was found, there are interesting exhibitions and exciting hands-on activities on an area of 5,000 m² - from lighting fires to archery.
The visit takes at least half a day. The archaeoParc Schnals is open until 3 November every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pre-registration is required for groups, group visits are also possible outside opening hours. The famous ice mummy, Ötzi, can be found in the South Tyrol Museum of Archaeology in Bozem.
Chestnut Experience Trail in Völlan
If your children are lovers of nature rather than history, we recommend a walk along the Chestnut Experience Trail in Völlan. It is not too long and therefore also suitable for children, along which you will come across various themed stations telling you everything about the chestnut tree, from the wood to the fruits of the different varieties.
You park your car near the Völlan church or near the football pitch, and take Propst Wieser Street. Near the Weinreichhof, you will notice a sculpture in the shape of an enormous chestnut husk, which indicates the start of the path. Awaiting you during the pleasant walk are 10 stations, some of which are also interactive, which will tell you all about the beautiful chestnut tree and its fruits in an entertaining way.