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7 tips for unforgettable family holidays in Davos

Planning your next family holiday in Switzerland? The Davos Klosters Mountains are the ideal spot for a summer getaway, packed with family-friendly activities set in stunning alpine scenery. From thrilling adventure parks to scenic hikes and a charming petting zoo: We’ve compiled our top seven tips to help you make the most of your stay in Davos.

Davos Klosters Mountains logo in blue round button | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Davos Klosters Mountains
06.05.2025
Family having picnic on hiking trail with barbecue fireplace  | © Davos Klosters Mountains

Family holiday bucket list

Must-experience adventures while on holiday in Davos:

  • Visit a mountain playground boasting scenic views
  • Sizzle sausages together at beautiful BBQ spots
  • Take a refreshing dip in a crystal-clear mountain lake
  • Meet the playful Madrisa Gang – fun for all ages
  • Learn how to make traditional alpine cheese
  • Ride an exciting downhill bike trail
  • Spot an ibex in its natural mountain habitat
  • Stay in a family-friendly hotel or at a cosy campsite

 

Family time on Rinerhorn

Tip 1: A visit to the playground and petting zoo

A top recommendation from the Schwab family from Davos, especially for those with younger children:
«Our favourite spot to spend a nice day as a family is Rinerhorn. With sausages packed in our rucksacks and excitement in the air, we take the cable car up the mountain – an adventure in itself with so much to see along the way. At the top, the playground with its breathtaking mountain views awaits. The kids can play freely and safely while we kick back and relax. A visit to the petting zoo is a must, too – it’s always a hit with the little ones. After some time in the sandpit or bouncing on the trampoline, we like to round off the day with an enjoyable picnic together.»

Family feeds a goat with grass  | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Toddler on swing is rocked by his mother | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Child sitting on plate elevator | © Davos Klosters Mountains

Tip 2: A scenic walk and barbecue on Äbirügg

The Schmuker/Göldi family recommends their favourite BBQ spot on Äbirügg – a hidden gem for a relaxed day in nature:
«A gentle, wide trail leads from the Rinerhorn mountain station to the Äbirügg picnic area. It’s about a 30-minute walk that’s perfect for the whole family – grandparents, children, and even babies in pushchairs can easily join. Once there, you’ll find a tranquil barbecue area with a table, bench and firewood ready. As the sausages sizzle on the fire, you can soak in the sweeping views over Davos and the surrounding peaks. After your walk back, be sure to treat yourself to a visit to the Jatzmeder mountain restaurant – for ice cream on warm days, or a hot drink and cake if it's cooler. With its spacious children’s play corner, the restaurant is a family favourite.»

Looking for more action? Families with older kids and teens can rent scooters at the Rinerhorn mountain station and race down the wide trails into the valley – an exciting way to end the day! Scooter bookings can also be made online in advance.

View towards the public fireplace at Abirügg. | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Mother with 2 children having picnic  | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Four scooter riders stand in a row on the Rinerhorn and look down into the valley. | © Davos Klosters Mountains

Tip 3: Cool off at Lake Nüllisee

On warm summer days, Lake Nüllisee on Rinerhorn is a lovely place to unwind and cool off. In a designated shallow area of the reservoir, the cold, ankle-deep water also offers a safe and fun place for children to splash around and play – ideal for floating little toy boats or just dipping your feet after a walk. Please note: While wading in the shallow section is at your own risk, swimming in the deeper area is not permitted.

Want to explore other refreshing spots? The Davos Klosters Mountains are home to numerous stunning alpine lakes perfect for a quick dip or a peaceful break in nature. Discover our top seven mountain lakes for even more cool adventures!

Mountain lake | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Family cools their feet in the mountain lake  | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Child barefoot at the edge of the lake  | © Davos Klosters Mountains

Fun-filled experiences on Madrisa in Klosters

Tip 4: Madrisa-Land: Splash and play all summer long

On sunny summer days, Madrisa in the mountains of the Canton of Grisons is the ultimate destination for family fun. Madrisa-Land is a playground paradise for children and teens, bursting with adventure: They can bounce on trampolines, glide along the zip line, or uncover the secrets of the mysterious snake cave. It's a world of discovery, laughter, and memorable moments. And after a day packed with fun and excitement, the whole family will head home with happy memories and smiling faces.

Tip for parents: Along the themed trails on Madrisa, there’s also plenty for adults to discover and experience.

The highlight

The popular story of the Madrisa Gang continues! On Hanna’s egg ball run, kids can help make egg-laying fun again for Hanna the hen. And with a bit of luck (or good timing), you might even meet Hanna herself while playing on the wooden ball run.

Children having fun on a raft at Madrisa-land. | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Children playing with a water lock at Madrisa-Land.  | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Large ball track made of wood | © Davos Klosters Mountains

A day on Jakobshorn is a must while on family holiday

Tip 5: A hike to Clavadeler Alp show dairy, where delicious alpine cheese is made

For a relaxed and scenic hike, take the Jakobshorn cable car to the Jschalp middle station, located at close to 2,000 metres above sea level. From there, a picturesque trail winds through a lush alpine forest, leading you to the Clavadeler Alp show dairy – a highlight for all ages. From June to mid-September, you can watch traditional alpine cheese being made right on site (every day from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m).

On the way back: Walk towards the Jschalp middle station and stop by the family-friendly Jschalp restaurant, which features a children’s play area. You’ll also pass a scenic barbecue area, perfect for a snack with a view. Alternatively, you can extend the experience with a longer hike down to Davos Platz, which takes about an hour and offers beautiful views all the way into the valley.

Tip 6: Action-packed downhill ride on the technical trail for teens and adults

«Davos Klosters is a single track paradise,» says a German visitor, thrilled by the biking options. He’s spending a few days in Davos with his 14-year-old son, and they’ve already explored several kilometres of trails. Their next tour starts with a cable car ride to the Jschalp middle station – the starting point for the second section of a winding, technical trail that’s perfect for honing your skills. Along the descent, you’ll find info boards offering tips and advice on technique training. You can also scan QR codes to watch short videos that demonstrate the techniques in action. A great choice for active families with older kids and teens!

A biker enters the bend of the technical trail on the Jakobshorn.  | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Exterior view of the Clavadeleralp show dairy in Davos. | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Herd of cows grazing on meadow | © Davos Klosters Mountains

Experience and enjoy nature as a family on Parsenn

Tip 7: Spot majestic ibexes in their natural habitat

Ever seen an ibex in the wild? These mountain dwellers are usually only spotted high above the valleys, making sightings extra special and rare. On Parsenn, families can join a guided ibex tour with Pur erleben, a summer highlight that brings you into the natural habitat of these majestic animals. It’s a must-do for any Swiss mountain holiday. Check our mountain experiences for tour dates and book your tickets directly online.

Great for families: There's a special family rate that includes both the ibex tour and mountain cableway ticket, making this unforgettable wildlife encounter even more attractive.

An ibex climbs over a rock and looks up to the mountain. | © Davos Klosters Mountains
A group with two guides from Pur erleben observe the ibexes on Parsenn by eye and with binoculars. | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Chamois standing on rock | © Davos Klosters Mountains

Our tip: The family packages

Book your accommodation and mountain cableway tickets all in one package

Our special family offer is available at both the Mountain Hotels and Hotel Waldhuus in Davos. Complimentary childcare at the Globi Kids Club at Hotel Waldhuus comes included in your stay. In summer, children up to 17 get to stay free of charge, and year-round, kids up to 16 stay for free at both hotel options. Mountain cableway tickets are also included for the entire duration of your stay.

Fully equipped nursery | © Davos Klosters Mountains
View of the campsite from the river side | © Davos Klosters Mountains
Double bed in Hotel Strela | © Davos Klosters Mountains

Four accommodation options for family holidays in Davos

1. Wonderful family days at Hotel Waldhuus Davos

Hotel Waldhuus Davos is a top choice for families. It offers spacious family rooms, child-friendly dining options and the popular Globi Kids Club with free childcare. Even families with babies will feel right at home there. And while parents head off for a challenging hike or mountain bike tour, the little ones keep busy with creative play, arts and crafts – and perhaps even with a surprise visit from Globi himself!

Highlights for children and teens: The Clubhuus playroom features table tennis and plenty of games for hours of fun and entertainment. And in the evening? A cosy film night at the new children’s cinema makes the day complete.

2. Hotel Strela: Quiet and central accommodation next to the sunny slopes of Davos

Situated in a quiet yet central location, the three-star Hotel Strela is ideal for families seeking both relaxation and convenience. You can choose between comfortable family rooms or a spacious three-room maisonette apartment, perfect for longer stays. Part of the Mountain Hotels group, Hotel Strela provides everything you need for a comfortable and carefree family holiday. Children will enjoy the on-site entertainment room with a dedicated play area, while the whole family benefits from short walking distances to cable cars, the indoor pool and local shops.

3. Spacious family comfort at the Parsenn Resort holiday flats

The modern Parsenn Resort in Davos Dorf is the perfect home base for a relaxed and flexible holiday with children. Families stay in a stylish 2.5- or 3.5-room apartment with space for up to six people, ideal if you want room to spread out after a day in the mountains. With a fully equipped kitchen, you are free to prepare your own meals and enjoy cosy family dinners or game nights in.

Extra convenient: Thanks to the resort’s new bakery delivery service, you can now start each morning with fresh bread rolls and other baked goods. Just place your order and enjoy!

4. Adventurous camping on Rinerhorn

Camping on Rinerhorn is a truly special experience for the whole family. Nestled in nature and right next to the Landwasser and the Rinerhorn valley station, this campsite offers unforgettable nights under starlit skies. It’s also the perfect starting point for exploring the many family-friendly activities Rinerhorn has to offer. And after a day full of hiking, biking and adventuring, kids will fall asleep contentedly in their tent or camper. These are just a few of the many accommodation options available through Mountain Hotels and Resorts. Discover even more family-friendly stays where guests of all ages feel right at home.

Feeling inspired for your next family holiday? If our tips have sparked your interest, you’ll find even more great ideas on our Perfect for families page, packed with excursion tips and activities in the beautiful mountains of Davos Klosters. And remember: Davos Klosters isn’t just a summer paradise. In the colder months, it transforms into a magical winter wonderland that’s just as popular with families. Whether you're planning a sunny hike or a snowy adventure, we’re happy to assist you with personalised tips for every season.

Have a fun-filled, memorable holiday! We look forward to welcoming you to the Davos Klosters Mountains!

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