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7 can’t miss activities for your family holiday in winter

Alpine-Mediterranean family holiday with skiing and urban flair in South Tyrol

Plenty of sun, good food, lots of fun and time for two for mum and dad. These are the ingredients of an unforgettable ski holiday with the entire family. This and more are in ample supply in Merano and environs. The combination of pleasant temperatures, 300 days of sunshine a year and slopes guaranteed to have snow make Merano the ideal destination for your family-oriented winter holiday in South Tyrol. After an active day in one of the five surrounding ski areas, head out for some afternoon shopping followed by dining and strolling in the Mediterranean spa town of Merano.

Headed to Merano in winter? Don’t miss these 7 things:

1. Outdoor Kids’ Camp at Merano 2000
Reaching the Merano 2000 ski area takes just minutes from Merano. With its bright red colour that stands out in the white snow like a piece of jewellery, the modern cableway is a real highlight. Meanwhile, the children's ski area with three magic carpets offers plenty of space for playing, skiing and sledging. Here, adults can also discover their inner child as they whiz down the valley on the Alpine coaster. Tip: Merano 2000 also offers a self-catering room with a play area. Little ones can warm up inside and you can enjoy the food you packed for the day.

2. Eat inside a Christmas ornament
You read right! During the Christmas season, six giant Christmas ornaments in shades of pink, red, green and silver will be on display at the Thermenplatz square in the heart of Merano, where up to 8 people can enjoy the finest South Tyrolean cuisine. Beyond just culinary delights, it is a wonderful photo opportunity.

3. Aroma oil massage with South Tyrolean essences in the Therme Meran spa
After an active day on the slopes, there is nothing better than a relaxing massage. Soothing South Tyrolean-style massages featuring natural ingredients are available at the Therme Meran spa and many of the surrounding hotels. For example, an aromatic oil massage featuring natural South Tyrolean essences is particularly recommended for its calming effect on the autonomic nervous system.

4. Hygge: enjoy the slow pace of winter
At the idyllic, romantic Vigiljoch located on Lana’s local mountain, visitors can enjoy skiing the way it once was: the high plateau is car-free, the gentle and sunny slopes are a paradise for nostalgics, and the snow-covered forests are a place of tranquillity. Here, kids can play in the snow, sledge and learn to ski without a care in the world.

5. Standing tall on a glacier
A trip to the Schnalstal Glacier is certainly one of the most impressive winter experiences. The glacier became world famous almost 30 years ago when the world's most famous mummy, Ötzi, was found there. While kids busy themselves looking for the perfect place to take a selfie with the glacier (at this altitude the glacier is quite spacious and flat), parents can indulge in a fine glass of wine and excellent food at the huts.

6. Night skiing by floodlight
Those overnighting in the Plan ski area will never be more than three minutes from the closest lift when they wake up. This small village in the Passeiertal valley knows exactly how to offer its guests the perfect car-free winter holiday. The magical landscape was named "Alpine Pearls" and is one of the most beautiful gems in all of the Alps. Highlight: Free night skiing with floodlights is offered every Thursday at the Gampen lift.

7. Marvel at the snow art in the Ultental valley
The Bärenhöhle (bear cave) ski kindergarten at the Schwemmalm ski area in the Ultental valley always showcases winter’s creative side. Children’s eyes will light up as they admire the huge snow castle. In the morning, young skiers practice their first turns close to this landmark before enjoying lunch all together. In the afternoon, kids can do handicrafts, paint and play.