Discovering the fun side of Ladis in the Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis Region. Tyrol, Austria.
The it factor
SNOW FUN:
Family Skiing: Berta's ski village | Indian Village | Dragon run | Snow playground | Family restaurant with Indoor playroom
Sledging: Witch run | Mountain restaurant with a playground and goats | Village restaurant with trampolines
OFF THE SNOW FUN:
Hiking: Play and Adventure trail | Picnic at the Ladis Laudegg Castle
Animal Fun: Treasure hunt with huskies
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The fun factor
Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis, nestled in the Austrian Alps, with slopes reaching heights of up to 2,820 meters is a snowy winter paradise. It's hailed by some as one of the best places for kids in Austria, offering excellent snow conditions and many family-friendly amenities and activities. I tend to agree. From top-notch ski schools to dedicated kids' zones, sledging, and off-the-slope fun, boredom is simply not an option. Plus, you can even rent a stroller suitable for snow and the food is fantastic!
The region comprises three interconnected villages, each offering its own unique charm.
Serfaus, the largest village, offers a winter promenade with shops, restaurants, and lively apres-ski options. It even has its own metro line for convenient transportation around town.
Fiss, slightly quieter than Serfaus, also offers some action with its own selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. It's the perfect balance for those seeking a bit of excitement without the hustle and bustle of Serfaus.
Ladis, the quietest of the three villages, is the ideal choice for families looking for a more peaceful holiday experience. Nestled amidst picturesque scenery, Ladis offers a tranquil atmosphere and a chance to truly unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Austrian Alps.
This guide is designed for families opting to stay in Ladis, the perfect choice if you are seeking a more peaceful holiday getaway.
Here are our top 12 family fun factors of the Serfaus Fiss Ladis Skiing Area:
- SNOW FUN | FAMILY SKIING IN LADIS -
Berta's ski village, Indian village and dragon run
1. Step into Kids Ski Paradise
Serfaus-Fiss-Ladis is renowned as one of the premier ski destinations for kids in Austria (and beyond). Featuring two distinct ski villages, Serfaus is home to the charming Murmli, the Marmot village, whilst between Fiss and Ladis is Berta Kinderland (ski village), the cow's domain. For those lodging in Ladis, Berta is the most convenient option, easily reachable with a single gondola ride. Simply disembark at the middle station of Sonnehnbahn Ladis-Fiss to access Berta's ski village.
Covering an expansive 80,000-square-meter area, Berta's Kinderland features 11 conveyor belts and nine beginner ski areas dedicated exclusively to kids' classes. Given its popularity, especially during peak seasons, we recommend booking in advance to secure your spot. Additionally, please note that group classes are not available on Saturdays; only private lessons are offered then.
2. Master your skiing with the 'Pizza' and 'Broom Turn' Techniques
Lessons are available every day except Saturday, either in the morning or afternoon. Our four year old joined the K1 morning beginner class, which is the only one available for one day only. When we arrived, we were warmly greeted by Berta's snowmobile which gave us a ride to our designated ski area - a fun way to start a ski class.
Starting on gentle slopes, our 4 year old began mastering essential techniques like braking, turning, and learning the "pizza" shape method to stop, all explained in kid-friendly terms. We were particularly impressed by the innovative teaching methods, such as using a broom to teach turning.
As beginners progress, they can tackle more challenging slopes across the nine ski areas.
The value factor (2023/2024 season)
Kids half a day class for kids 4 - 12 years old:
One day: 95 EUR
Two days: 249 EUR
Three days: 290 EUR
Four days: 331 EUR
Five days: 372 EUR
More info: Class for kids 4 - 12 years old | Class for teens 13 - 17 years old
2. Ski while your kids have snowy fun!
After completing their skiing lessons, children have the opportunity to extend their stay in the Berta's kindergarten under supervised care. This is available from 9 am to 4 pm Sunday through Friday. Here, a variety of activities await, including animations, games, indoor play areas, and a dedicated restaurant exclusively for kids (Planet Kids, not accessible to the public), all under supervision. In the outdoor play areas, the parents can join again. Occasionally, Berta the cow herself makes an appearance to interact with the children and join in the fun—although unfortunately, we missed her during our visit.
This supervised care provides children with a relaxing break whilst allowing you to fully enjoy the 214 km of slopes, knowing they're in capable hands.
Additionally, for younger children aged 3-4 who may not be ready for extended skiing sessions, there's a perfect alternative: a bambini 2-hour snow adventure. This special outdoor program is specifically designed to engage children in snow activities beyond skiing, ensuring a fun and enjoyable experience for the little ones.
The value factor (2023/2024 season)
For little ones (3-4 years old):
Half a day Bambini Course - with skis: 63 EUR
Half day Snow Adventures - without skis: 45 EUR
Berta's kindergarten (from 3 months old):
Half a day: 45 EUR
Full day: 68 EUR
Intro ski lesson: 19.50 EUR
Supervised lunch: 22 EUR
More info: Bambini course | Snow adventures | Berta's kindergarten | All rates
3. Make sounds at the playground
We decided to stay together with our four-year-old and explore the area. We headed to the playground, which is in the ski village, just next to the learning areas. It featured in addition to all usual suspects, a climbing wall, an igloo for imaginative play, and a sound path adorned with bells and various items to create different sounds. Fun!
After a day of skiing or when you're ready to head up to the restaurant, another enchanting adventure awaits: the Märchenexpress, a magic carpet ride featuring displays behind glass that showcase moving fairy tale characters accompanied by music.
4. Conquer the blue slope and discover the Indian Village
As kids grow more confident on skis, they can tackle the blue slope leading directly to Ladis. Along the way, they'll pass by an Indian village—a cute mini settlement with various houses to play in and a wigwam featuring a picnic area.
The village is visible from the gondola ride, providing an enticing goal for kids to strive for. Skiing down to reach the village becomes a motivating challenge, encouraging them to continue learning and improving their skills on the slopes. This year, our four year old didn't make it, but we're crossing all our fingers for a triumph next year!
You can check our map for details on the location of each run.
The value factor (2023/2024 season)
5. Ride with the dragon in the Cave World Fiss
For the more advanced skiers, there's the Dragon Run (Cave world) in Fiss —a short but fun slope filled with dragon-themed music, statues, and storytelling as you glide through. With its narrow path winding through the forest, this run requires a solid skiing skill level, likely achievable in the next few years.
You can check our map for details on the location of each run.
The value factor (2023/2024 season)
The food factor
6. Relax at the Sonnenburg restaurant
Situated above the Berta ski village are two restaurants: Kinder Planet, reserved for kids under supervised care, and top rated Sonnenburg, open to all. Opting for Sonnenburg during our visit, we found it offered a varied menu of typical ski food and kid-friendly options in a charming and cozy atmosphere. With its ample indoor and outdoor seating areas, it provided the perfect setting to refuel and unwind after a day on the slopes.
7. Uncover the Play Zone at the Sonnenburg restaurant
Here's a tip for families with little ones who enjoy indoor playrooms: if you are eating at the Sonnenburg restaurant, head to the family eating area located at the far end of the restaurant on the first floor. This area includes a restaurant section with a play area tucked behind a glass wall. It's a brilliant setup—it keeps the noise of kids playing at bay while still allowing you to keep an eye on them from a distance.
- SNOW FUN | FAMILY SLEDGING IN FISS -
8. Sledge with a witch on- Hexen Toboggan
In the area, you'll find two sledging runs, with the easiest one to access from Ladis being the Hexen Toboggan - a witch-themed sledge run in Fiss with two family restaurants along the way. To reach it, take the Sonnenbahn gondola over to Fiss and then the Schönjochbahn I gondola up to Steinegg (Schönjochbahn I Middle station) at 1920 meters.
Here is a map to help you plan:
This 4 km long run is equipped with artificial snow and follows a charming witch-themed hiking path that's also enjoyable during the summer months. Last year, we had the opportunity to explore the same path in the summer, where we entered a fascinating witch world and met her friends. Our four-year-old fondly remembered the stories from our summer hike and was thrilled to reunite with her 'old friends' as we sledded down.
The run is mostly gentle, with only a few minor steep sections along the way. Overall, I would rate it as one of the easiest sledging runs we've experienced, making it suitable for families.
Tip: if you have a severe fear of heights, I wouldn't recommend it as there are steep edges on the side with no barriers. Fortunately, younger children can ride with an adult on the same sled, ensuring it's a fun and safe activity for everyone.
If you're a big sledding fan, you'll also want to check out the second sledding run in Serfaus, which we saved for another Serfaus-specific adventure or night sledding.
You can check our map for details on the location of each run.
The value factor (2023/2024 season):
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The food factor | Where to eat
9. Make a pit stop at Kuh Alm restaurant
About halfway through the run, you'll come across the Kuh Alm restaurant, offering a nice kids menu and a playground with an amazing view —perfect for a mid-sledding break.
Just a heads up: they only accept cash, so make sure to bring some along.
9. Meet the goats
Right next to the Kuh Alm restaurant lies a charming highlight for animal lovers: a small goat area. Although petting isn't permitted, you can still enjoy observing these adorable creatures up close. We all agreed the goats were absolutely adorable!
10. Wrap up with fun dining and Après-Ski party at Hexenalm Fiss
When you arrive at the bottom, another treat awaits: Hexenalm Fiss. Its a witch themed restaurant with a trampoline park, and delicious Nutella pancakes, along with other food options including a kids' menu.
They also host après-ski music with a DJ, perfect for little dancers or those who enjoy a lively atmosphere. We're big fans of après-ski parties in Austria as they always play modern remixes of old hits that get you in the mood to bounce!
- OFF THE SLOPE FUN | HIKING IN LADIS -
11. Embark on a Play & Adventure family hike (Spiel and Erlebnisweg)
For a change of pace from the slope adventures, we suggest an easy themed circular hike on the "Spiel and Erlebnisweg" trail in Ladis, perfect for younger kids. This 1.8 km trail with a 64 m elevation gain has an asphalt and forest part. The section in the forest, which is around half of the hike, features 9 fun stations with activities such as slides, play huts, chalkboards, balancing elements, a mini train, bells, and more. Our four-year-old thoroughly enjoyed the experience!
You have two options for the hike: you can either ascend on the asphalt road and descend along the activity-filled path, or you can climb up through the activities and then return down the asphalt road. We opted for the first option, although the uphill journey proved a bit challenging for our little one. However, a quick snack break and the promise of fun activities ahead kept her motivated.
In hindsight, we think ascending through the activities would be more motivating for kids, followed by a leisurely walk down the smooth asphalt road. Plus, the trail is stroller-friendly, making it accessible for families with young children.
12. Indulge in a Picnic at the Castle
The hike begins and ends near the castle with a tower dating back to the 13th century. Although the castle is situated on private property, it opens for visits during the months of July and August. During winter, the area offers picturesque views, with a small lake nearby that serves as a fantastic spot for a picnic after the hike. If you prefer dining out, there's a Gertis cafe with a playground overlooking the lake, although we didn't get a chance to check it out as we opted for a picnic. Be sure to let us know your experience if you visit!
In the winter, when temperatures drop, the lake transforms into a natural ice skating rink. Unfortunately, during our visit in early March, the temperatures were too high for skating.
Play & adventure family hike | Practical info:
Hike is accessible year-round
Free of charge
Hike start / end: Burger ladis lak
Access directly from the Ladis village — no gondola require
13. Embark on a Husky Adventure
If you're family is fond of dogs and scavenger hunts, consider embarking on a unique adventure with Wild Paw Adventures. Their scavenger hunt activity, lasting around 2-2.5 hours, combines puzzle-solving with the joy of being accompanied by husky dogs (one per adult). I would recommend it for kids from 4/5 years old.
Although we didn't get the chance to participate in the hike ourselves, we did have the pleasure of meeting the huskies. There were around 10 of them, and their enthusiastic greeting initially caught our 4-year-old off guard. However, with a little encouragement and some caution, she quickly warmed up to them and had an amazing time interacting with these friendly canines.
If you're planning to visit Wild Paw Adventures with small kids, it's a good idea to hold them in your hands or on your shoulders at the beginning, especially if they're a bit hesitant, as the huskies are quite enthusiastic and very powerful. This way, you can ensure their safety and gradually introduce them to the dogs without overwhelming them.
Once they're warmed up, interacting with the huskies becomes an incredible experience at Wild Paw Adventures! Plus, the owners are fantastic and really enhance the overall adventure.
The value factor (2023/2024 season):
Husky Scavenger Hunt: 50 EUR / person
The comfort factor | Where to stay
Tyrol in Austria is renowned for its Kinderhotels, specially designed accommodations tailored for families. These hotels typically provide all-inclusive dining options, childcare services, indoor and outdoor play areas, kids' pools, entertaining activities, and a mascot appearances during meals. It's a love-it-or-hate-it concept. We happen to be big fans because it allows us to relax knowing there are plenty of activities for our child, without worrying about disturbing other guests. However, some may find the experience overwhelming and prefer a less intense environment. With 118 hotels in Ladis alone, you're likely to find an option that suits your preference.
10. Join the fun at the Laderhof Kinderhotel
We opted to stay at the Laderhof Kinderhotel, recommended by Kinderhotels.com. Its smaller size than other kinderhotels in the area appealed to us, promising a cozier vibe. Tucked beside a serene lake and a charming castle, it's an ideal spot for families craving a peaceful getaway (well, except for the not-so-occasional chaos the little ones bring!). But for those who thrive on liveliness and adventure, Serfaus is where more action is!
Despite its size, it offered all the amenities expected from a Kinderhotel: family apartments with a separate small room for kids, three playrooms, entertaining kids' animations (we especially enjoyed their kids' disco), a dedicated kids menu, and reliable daycare services.
The pool area at Laderhof was good, offering both indoor and outdoor heated pools, along with a mini pool for the little ones. While it wasn't as extravagant as some larger water parks, it provided a nice way to relax and cool off after a day of activities.
The value factor & practical info:
The food factor | Where to eat
In total, Ladis has around 16 restaurants and there are many more in Fiss and Serfaus. These dining spots offer a taste of authentic and traditional cuisine. Regrettably, we didn't get the chance to sample them, as we chose the convenience of dining at our hotel after a full day of exploration. We're curious—do you have a favourite among them?
Winter Family Wonderland of Ladis - Practical Info
Arrival by car
Check at your accommodation for parking options
Arrival by public transport
Take the train to Landeck Zams and then catch bus B220. Note that the bus schedule varies, running every 40 minutes to 3 hours. Be sure to check in advance.
Interactive winter map | Open facilities | More info about the area | More info about the ski school
FREE: Download our 2024 Family Fun Factor map, complete with clickable links to Google Maps for each location.
