NiederauWildschönau · Tyrol

Activities

Animals and nature for children around Niederau

Farm animals, wildlife parks and zoos in and around the Wildschönau.

Children and animals make a good combination on holiday. In the Wildschönau you meet them in various ways: cows, sheep and goats on the mountain pastures, horses at farms and riding stables, and at the Markbachjochalm a small petting zoo that children can visit. An ordinary walk quickly becomes a small voyage of discovery.

A bigger destination is the Alpine Zoo in Innsbruck, at roughly 750 metres, which according to its own information shows more than 150 species of the Alpine region and over 2,000 animals. You can see bear, wolf, lynx, ibex, chamois and bearded vulture, among others, and in a show stable children can see rare domestic breeds up close. The zoo is generally open daily, longer hours in summer than in winter.

Respect for animals is important. Do not feed wild animals, keep your distance from cows with calves and follow the rules of the park or farm. The offer differs by season, so check opening times and conditions beforehand. The individual destinations for animal lovers are described below. A visit combines well with a picnic or a walk, and children often remember short, calm encounters with animals best.

Llama at a farm

Tips

  • Bring old clothes or boots for a farm visit.
  • Check feeding times beforehand.
  • Keep your distance from animals on the pasture.
  • Make it a short, fun day with a picnic.
  • Ask your accommodation about farms nearby.

When and for whom?

Animal visits are possible all year, but the offer is greatest in the summer season; the petting zoo at the Markbachjochalm, for instance, is best combined with a lift ride. Smaller children especially enjoy animals they can pet and short visits; older children like explanations and feeding rounds. Do not plan too much for one day, and note feeding times, which vary by park. A small backpack with water and snacks helps.

Rules and safety

Only feed animals where expressly permitted and with the food provided. Wash your hands after petting. Children should be supervised around animals. On pastures cows can react protectively towards dogs and calves; keep your distance, walk calmly and keep dogs on a lead. Close gates behind you and never walk between a cow and her calf. Wear sturdy shoes for a farm visit.

Summer

Frequently asked questions

Are there animal parks near Niederau?

Yes, the region has zoos and wildlife parks, such as the Alpine Zoo in Innsbruck with more than 150 species from the Alpine region. Driving time varies; check in advance.

Can children pet the animals?

Sometimes, especially on farms or in petting areas of parks. Ask on site and follow instructions.

Is it safe to walk past cows?

Generally yes, but be careful. Keep your distance, especially near calves, walk calmly and keep dogs on a lead.

Stay in Niederau Partner

Hotel Wastlhof, partner of Niederau.nl, is a family-run hotel with an indoor and an outdoor pool, wellness and its own riding stables, right in the village. For more places to stay and information you can also contact the Wildschönau tourist office.

To Hotel Wastlhof · Wildschönau tourist office · More about staying in Niederau