worldschooling journeys

14-day Worldschooling

Austrian Mountain Fall Retreat

Explore forests, mountains and waterfalls together

Authentic Austrian worldschooling adventure

Visit Salzburgerland and local mountain villages

Build new relationships and lifelong friendships

Field Trips | Resort | Rooms | Pricing | Sample Day | FAQ's | Location

This trip is in 2026. For 2027 click here: Austria Fall 2027

Other Trips: Austria Summer 2026 and Austria Winter 2026

WORLDSCHOOLING IN AUSTRIA

Fall Retreat in the Mountains

Set among the stunning Austrian mountains, this worldschooling retreat is the perfect place to relax, play, work and learn together.

Imagine your kids racing down leaf-covered trails with new friends from around the world, climbing and splashing together in mountain streams, or challenging each other on suspension bridges and rock walls. They are free to explore, laugh, and be children in nature.

Meanwhile, parents unwind in the fresh alpine air, share stories of travel and learning, or slip away for a moment of quiet in the spa, sauna, or indoor pool at the beautiful Mondi Hotel. With spacious family rooms overlooking the lake, hearty Austrian meals, and wellness options like yoga classes, it’s the perfect base for our community.

Each day brings a new adventure: rafting wild rivers, flying across valleys on a zipline, or enjoying the panoramic views from mountain carts and bridges. In the evenings, we gather together to share meals, conversations, and laughter, building that “village” where everyone belongs.

Welcome to our Austrian Mountain Retreat!

JOIN US NOW

Destination

Salzburgerland, Austria

Pricing

See HERE

Dates

Sep 7- 21, 2026 (See 2027 dates HERE)

Activities

See HERE

Austrian Mountain Worldschooling Experience

Nature as Your Playground

Kids crunching through colorful leaves, families hiking together, and golden peaks all around, fall in Austria feels like a storybook come alive.

Adventures for All Ages

Rafting, ziplining, mountain carts, or gentle lakeside walks, whether you’re a little explorer or a thrill-seeking teen, there’s something for everyone.

A Cozy Family Base

Spacious rooms, a warm pool, and family meals at Mondi Hotel, the perfect home to return to after days filled with laughter and adventure.

Worldschooling trips are a perfect opportunity to spend time with like-minded families, make deep connections and learn from each other

What learning opportunities will my kids have on this trip?

Grounding in Nature & Sensory Awareness

Daily connection with alpine landscapes
Learning about local geography, flora, and fauna
Sensory regulation through cold water dips, forest walks, and mountain air
Building confidence through risk-taking and decision-making on trails

Life Skills & Personal Growth

Gaining independence in a safe, gated hotel community
Developing physical endurance through daily hikes
Strengthening social skills through mixed-age group play
Building confidence by navigating new places and routines

Cultural Immersion & History

Experiencing local customs, foods, and seasonal traditions
Visiting historic alpine towns and castles
Interacting with locals and learning about regional livelihoods

Physical Activities

Staying active through hiking, biking, or climbing
Reconnecting with joy and movement through daily playground time
Swimming and relaxing at the hotel’s pool or at the many thermal spas

Ready to join?

BOOK NOW

Austrian Alps Endless Beauty

Enjoy the Beauty of Austrian Mountain Valleys

Field Trips & Activities

Every day we will do an activity together as a group that will allow us to not only explore the amazing mountains of Austria and learn about the lifestyles and culture of the locals, but to bond together as a group. We will be exploring forests, lakes and streams, hiking mountains, eating and playing at the summits, riding local trains and buses. Here is a list of all the activities we might be doing. The final itinerary will depend on the weather, specific group's abilities and ages, as well as availability.

Mountain Activities

Rafting

Feel the thrill of whitewater together as you paddle through Austria’s alpine rivers. It’s an unforgettable bonding adventure for families who love a splash of adrenaline.

Suspension Bridge

Step out onto the sky-high bridge with sweeping panoramic views of the mountains. Kids and parents alike will remember the excitement (and the photos!) forever.

Mountain Carts

Zoom downhill on three-wheeled carts, safe, fun, and a favorite with kids and teens. The laughter and friendly races make it a highlight of the trip.

Rock Climbing

Challenge yourself on the practice climbing route and discover the joy of alpine climbing. Guides are there to help, making it accessible for both beginners and adventurous families.

Zipline

Soar across valleys and forests for an unforgettable family adventure in the sky. The rush of flying above the treetops is guaranteed to be a story the kids tell for years.

Cultural Excursion

Step back in time with a visit to Austria’s nearby castles, charming villages, and Hallstatt’s world-famous heritage site. It’s the perfect way to show your kids the magic of European history.

Educational hiking trails

Enjoy themed, family-friendly hikes around three scenic local mountains — a paradise for nature lovers with marked trails, forests, lakes, and streams. Strollers are welcome, making this an ideal outdoor adventure for all ages.

Mountain Top Playgrounds

Many Austrian mountains feature exciting nature playgrounds and adventure courses at their peaks, offering kids and adults alike a chance to explore, climb, and play while surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the Alps.

Mountain Biking Trails

Follow thrilling mountain biking routes designed for adventure seekers, or take a magical Gnome Hike along rivers and waterfalls to enjoy a refreshing cold-water plunge and rejuvenating Kneipp path experience in nature.

River & Waterfall Hike

Take part in an experiential barefoot cultural walk through alpine meadows, then dive into the crystal-clear mountain-top lake for an invigorating swim surrounded by stunning natural scenery and peaceful mountain air.

Kneipp path

Discover Geisterberg Alpendorf — a magical mountain playground near the Gorge, filled with ziplines, climbing towers, and creative play areas that invite families to explore and enjoy nature together high in the Alps.

Geisterberg Adventure Mountain

Visit the charming Rucki Alm playground featuring a petting zoo with friendly goats, a wooden raft for children to cross the lake, and countless other outdoor attractions perfect for family adventures in nature.

Sightseeing & Exploration

Liechtensteinklamm Gorge

Walk through one of the longest and deepest gorges in the Alps, where wooden pathways lead to a stunning waterfall. The rushing water and towering rock walls create an unforgettable natural spectacle for all visitors.

Mountain Huts

Experience warm alpine hospitality at cozy mountain huts offering traditional culinary delights. Relax on sunny terraces while children enjoy nearby playgrounds, surrounded by mountain views, fresh air, and the charm of rural Austria.

Schauhöhle “Entrische Kirche”

Discover the Entrische Kirche, the largest natural cave in the Salzburg Central Alps. This remarkable geological site, one of the region’s oldest natural monuments, invites exploration into its mysterious chambers and ancient rock formations.

Bastein Waterfall, Bad Gastein

Cascading through the heart of town, the Gastein Waterfall is a breathtaking natural landmark. Enjoy scenic views, refreshing mist, and a perfect photo opportunity surrounded by alpine architecture and mountain charm.

Geisterberg Alpendorf

Along the scenic Geisterberg hiking trails, discover over 40 exciting play stations including castles, villages, water games, swings, climbing towers, family hikes, and slides — endless fun and discovery for children and adults alike.

Cultural Celebrations & Experiences

Join in authentic Austrian cultural festivities throughout the year, from traditional music and folk dances to local craft fairs and harvest celebrations, offering visitors a true taste of alpine community life and heritage.

Farmhouse Donuts

Savor delicious Austrian donuts filled with chocolate or jam, paired with refreshing drinks. Children can play on the playground, meet friendly goats and donkeys, and cuddle adorable bunnies in the farm’s bunny pen.

Panning for Gold

Try your hand at traditional gold panning and uncover the excitement of this historic local pastime. Learn about prospecting methods, swirl your pan in mountain streams, and maybe discover your own tiny treasure.

Thermal Spas & Wellness

Felsentherme Spa, Bad Gastein

Relax in natural thermal pools with breathtaking Alpine views. The spa features indoor and outdoor pools, saunas, and panoramic relaxation areas, offering the perfect retreat after skiing, hiking, or a full day exploring the surrounding mountains.

Alpentherme Gastein, Bad Hofgastein

Experience six themed spa worlds including family-friendly pools, slides, a sauna village, and a “Ladies World” section. Enjoy the year-round outdoor thermal lake and unwind in a fun, relaxing environment suitable for all ages.

Solarbad Dorfgastein

A family-friendly waterpark with pools, slides, and thermal baths in Dorfgastein, perfect for kids and adults alike. Enjoy hours of fun, relaxation, and alpine scenery, making it an ideal destination for both energetic adventures and leisure.

Healing Caves (Heilstollen)

Visit the therapeutic Heilstollen caves, known for their radon-filled climate. Guided sessions offer potential relief for respiratory, musculoskeletal, and autoimmune conditions, while guests experience the unique historical and natural environment of these underground tunnels.

Historical Attractions

Montan Museum Altböckstein

Explore the history of gold mining in the region at the Montan Museum. Exhibits reveal Bad Gastein’s mining heritage, showcasing historical artifacts, tools, and stories that bring the rich past of the area to life.

Grand Hotel de l’Europe, Bad Gastein

Step inside the historic Grand Hotel de l’Europe, a symbol of Bad Gastein’s 19th-century elegance. Guided tours explore its opulent architecture, grand interiors, and fascinating stories from the hotel’s glamorous past.

Pilgrimage Church of Maria, Böckstein

Visit the Pilgrimage Church of Maria, an 18th-century gem known for stunning frescoes and scenic surroundings. This charming church offers spiritual serenity, historical insight, and beautiful photography opportunities in the heart of Böckstein.

Burg Hohenwerfen

Cascading through the heart of town, the Gastein Waterfall is a breathtaking natural landmark. Enjoy scenic views, refreshing mist, and a perfect photo opportunity surrounded by alpine architecture and mountain charm.

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Your Mountain Resort

Our Austrian Worldschooling Fall Gathering will be hosted at a beautiful resort in Bad Gastein. The quaint spa town of Bad Gastein just south of Salzburg making it a great home base for your family as they explore Austria this fall.

Bad Gastein is home to a legendary waterfall, healing caves, and natural baths where you can relax during your time at the resort. At the resort you will have free access to:

supervised kids club
playground
game room -table tennis, billiards, air hockey, darts
bowling alley
thermal spa - sauna, steam room, foot baths, relaxation lounge
indoor pool
indoor hot tub
fitness center
full bar and restaurant

While it would be incredibly easy to fill your time with all the activities available at the resort, our worldschooling group will be taking a variety of daily field trips and excursions that will help families experience all the things Austria has to offer together.

Included Facilities and Perks of your Stay

Gastein Card with lots of discounts in the valley

Loan of bathrobe, slippers and towels on arrival

Hotel’s own indoor pool and kids’ pool with slide and whirlpool

Wellness area with bio sauna, Finnish sauna and steam bath

Showers with essential oils, relaxation room and sunbathing lawn next to the wellness area

Gym with strength and cardio equipment

Childcare with fun-filled entertainment program (Age 3 min)

Co-working space and separate dining room for our group

Youth club room with billiards, table tennis, air hockey, darts and table football

Use of the bowling alley (booking required)

Hire of mountain bikes and walking poles =

Bike facilities, including store, washing area, bike washing service, etc.

Sun terrace

Regular live music

Parking area

Free Wi-Fi

Amenities

On-Site Free Thermal Spa

Saunas - Refreshing Showers - Steam Room - Lounges - Foot Baths

Pools and Hot Tub

Kids Pool - Indoor Pool - Large Indoor Hot Tub

Studio Apartments

**Double Murphy Bed - Dining Table - Kitchenette - Kitchenware - Tea Pot - Coffee Maker - Shower - Bath Tub* - Flat Screen TV**

1 Bedroom Apartments

**Double Bed - Double Murphy Bed - Dining Table - Kitchenette - Kitchenware - Tea Pot - Coffee Maker - Shower - Bath Tub* - 2nd Toilet - Balcony - Flat Screen TV's**

2 Bedroom 2 Bath Suites

**2 Double Beds - Double Murphy Bed - Dining Table - Kitchenette - Kitchenware - Tea Pot - Coffee Maker - Shower - Bath Tub* - 2nd Toilet - Balcony - Flat Screen TV's**

Full Bar & Restaurant

Bar - Dining Room - Breakfast - Dinner

Meal Plans

Enjoy fresh, local meals during your stay. Half-Board is a highly recommended add-on for breakfast and dinner, while lunch is optional on excursions. Half-Board pricing starts at €47 per day for adults, €25 per day for children aged 5–14, and is free for children aged 4 and under—making it a convenient and cost-effective dining option.

What Others Say About Our Trips

What's Included?

Itinerary- Scheduled group activities and daily experiences.

Retreat Leaders- Your hosts will be staying at the resort and joining group outings as personal guides and facilitators.

Worldschooling community- You’ll be exploring Austria with a like-minded group of worldschooling families.

Group Communications- Private WhatsApp chats for connection, coordination, and bonding — for both adults and kids.

Trip Support- We’re here to help! Let us know how we can support your family in making this trip possible.

Room Accommodation- Accommodation type you selected and paid for will be included once you have selected your room package

Entry Tickets- Admission to all main group-planned activities.

Transportation- Group transportation to and from activities is included. You’ll also receive a travel card for free local transit in Salzburgerland (If a coach bus is arranged for a specific outing, we’ll inform you)

Resort Amenities- Includes access to the thermal spa, kids club, game room, coworking space, fitness center, and bowling alley.

Dedicated Group Space- There will be a conference room available for our group to use as a co-working space or board game room and hangout space.

Private Dining Room- Our group will have a private dining room area, away from the main guest dining room, to ensure quality time and be as crazy as we want!

Kids Club - Extra dedicated hours will be open at the kids club for our group.

What's Not Included?

Transportation to Resort- Travel to the retreat location from your home is not included.

Food/Drinks- Only meals included in the resort food package are covered. All lunches and additional snacks or drinks are at your own cost.

Extra Cost of Activities- If any optional experiences come with additional fees outside of our main group activities, those costs are not included (unless stated otherwise).

Lift tickets- Only single-day lift tickets for scheduled group mountain days are included. Additional lift passes are not covered.

Flights and Train- Costs for getting to Austria are not included. However, trains and buses between Salzburg and Gastein are included.

Travel Insurance- Travel insurance is not included, however it is recommended. Please see the link for Safety Wing and Faye

Resort Fees & Extras- Any resort purchases (e.g., alcoholic beverages, extra meals, taxes, fees) will be your responsibility.

Pricing & Availability

*Note: Our pricing is based on a 14-night stay and does not include food. The prices shown are rough estimates meant to give you a general idea of cost, and final pricing may vary depending on availability and when you book. These are base rates, so upgraded rooms will cost more, and extending your stay will increase your total. The examples reflect common family setups, but every family is different, so your pricing may vary slightly.

1 adult 1 kid

1 Studio Aparment

€3,450*

1 adult 2 kids

1 Bedroom Apartment

€4,356*

1 adult 3 kids

1 Bedroom Apartment

€5,206*

1 adult 4 kids

1 Bedroom Apartment

€6,056*

2 adults 1 kid

1 Bedroom Apartment

€4,356*

2 adults 2 kids

1 Bedroom Apartment

€5,206*

2 adults 3 kids

2 Bedroom Suite

€7,624*

2 adults 4 kids

2 Bedroom Suite

€8,474

Our pricing is based on a 14-night stay and does not include food.
These are rough estimates only. Final pricing may vary slightly depending on room availability and your booking date.
Prices shown are base rates, upgraded rooms will cost more.
These estimates reflect common family types, your setup may differ.
If you choose to book more nights at the hotel it will increase your cost. These prices below are just to give you an idea of what it will roughly cost you family situation.
We understand that not every family situation is listed here, but just some of the common ones.
Adults = age 15+ | Kids = age 14 & under
Group transportation to and from activities is included. You’ll also receive a travel card for free local transit in Salzburgerland & Gastein (Train and bus)

14 nights of lodging
Resort Amenities
Group Activities
Group Tours
Lift Tickets
Retreat Leaders
Registration Fees
Organized Itinerary
Apartment with Kitchenette
Entry Tickets, Lift Tickets, Coaches, Tour Fees
Group transportation to and from scheduled activities
Travel card for free local transit (bus and train)

Half-Board Meal Plan (optional):

Includes daily breakfast and dinner at the resort restaurant.
Adults: from €47 per person/day
Children (5–14): from €25 per person/day
Children (4 and under): Free
Lunch is not included and is optional during excursions.

Drinks Package (optional):

Includes beer, house wine, bottled soft drinks (including iced tea, Almdudler, and juices), water, coffee, and tea.

Additional Activities:

Any activities not specifically listed in the official schedule may incur extra costs.

Government Tax:

€4.50 per person/day for guests aged 15 years and older.

Frequently Asked Questions

To reserve your spot, click the “Book Now” button located just below this section. You’ll be directed to our checkout page to submit a deposit. This deposit secures your session date.

After your deposit is received, we’ll reach out by email to gather a few details about your family—such as the number of participants, children’s ages, and any add-ons or special requests you’re considering. This helps us create a fully personalized quote tailored to your family’s specific needs.

The pricing shown in the section above reflects base pricing and is intended to give you a general estimate of what most families invest. Because every family chooses different options and add-ons, the final price may vary and is always customized after we review your details together.

If you have any questions before booking, you’ll find our contact information at the bottom of this page—we’re happy to help.

You’ll book your own accommodations using our provided links, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for your family. Pricing is based on a 14-night stay, but your total cost will vary depending on your room type, travel dates, and length of stay. Food is not included, but we do recommend selecting the half board option for ease during your stay. Our trips are designed to be flexible and connection-focused, so you can join group experiences as much or as little as you’d like.

There is no age limit. The hotel provides the following free of charge upon request ahead of time:

Children’s bed
Highchair
Baby bathtub
Toilet seat reducer
Changing pad
Bottle warmer
Stool
Safety equipment for small children (e.g. socket protector etc.)
Free of charge rental of back baby carriers, baby buggies

Every single travel experience is educational. On this trip we will not be sitting in classrooms, or looking at textbooks. We will be exploring, immersing, learning from doing. We will be sharing all the knowledge about the area that we have collected over the years. We will be encouraging kids and adults to break out of their shell and step a little out of their comfort zone and remember what it's like to be a wild child. This might not be in your local school's curicullum but it will be transformational in another way.

We hope that you will leave inspired, full of wonder and with your soul well rested.

Yes, every day we will take a group field trip to different attractions in the area. The activities listed on the website is an example of what you might experience. We'll make a plan based on weather and availability for the whole two weeks prior to group's arrival. You do not have to follow this plan and may explore the area on your own or stay and enjoy the resort at your leisure. Whoever wants to join the group for the days' scheduled activity is welcome to do so. Please note that bus fare, train tickets, entry fees to attractions or lift tickets are to be purchased separately, if needed. Many of the group activities will be covered in your booking.

Yes, all the families will be added to a WhatsApp group to get to know each other before the trip and discuss the itinerary. We will also use WhatsApp to communicate during the trip.

I think that's a question you need to ask yourself. Most families get along really well if they actually participate in the group and are open to new friends.

During our past trips, introverts have enjoyed sporadic company of other introverts, while their kids were able to be social and extroverts had fun with the whole group. No matter what you will have the perfect experience for you. The more you put into it the more you will get out of it. Be yourself, be authentic, and make time to connect with others. You'll be so happy you did!

Find out what others said about our groups: POST

Our first and foremost personal belief is in freedom of choice. All of the trips we organized lead with that belief. You are NEVER required to do an activity you do not want to do or participate in group's gatherings that you do not want to participate in. We will always encourage you to step out of your comfort zone, but ultimately you know yourself and your family better than anyone else and you will need to be the judge for what aligns with you and your family best.

Food outside the resort meal plans, transfers, tips, airfare, pre-/post lodging, as well as additional attraction tickets, lift tickets, outside of those stated in the schedule. Any other additional day trip expenses are not included in the price. Public buses are very easy and run very often. Much of the travel around the area will be done by bus or train which are both very affordable. Coach buses will be hired for further destinations and there may be additional fees for private buses.

The resort will have breakfast and dinner included with the Half-Board option. The rooms do have small kitchenettes if you want to prepare food and snacks. Lunch will most likely be out on the mountain or in another village while exploring the area. Light lunch is available for purchase at the resort if you choose not to go out that day or you can always walk to any of the local restaurants.

Half-Board includes daily breakfast and dinner at the resort restaurant. We highly recommend this option as an add-on. The food is amazing and much cheaper than eating out at other restaurants.

Pricing starts at €47 per day for adults, €25 per day for children aged 5–14, and is free for children aged 4 and under.

A Drinks Package is also available, covering beer, house wine, bottled soft drinks (such as iced tea, Almdudler, and juices), water, coffee, and tea—perfect for a fully relaxed dining experience.

Deposit of 250 Euros per person is due at the time of booking.

The deposit is non-refundable after April 10, 2026

Final payments are due 120 days before the retreat date.

- Final payment is due by May 10, 2026

Refund Policy for Remaining Balance (After Non-Refundable Deposit)

More than 120 days before retreat start date: 100% refundable

91–120 days before: 50% refundable

61–90 days before: 25% refundable

31–60 days before: 10% refundable (or non-refundable)

30 days or less before: Non-refundable

In any case, we recommend travel cancellation insurance.

If the final payment is not received within two weeks of the due date, your spots will be released and the deposit will remain non-refundable.

For bookings made after the final payment deadline, the full balance will be due immediately once the quote is shared. Please note that the deposit alone does not secure the spots in this case. Spots can only be confirmed once the final payment has been received.

Read this post about our mission and vision: POST

Ready to join our group?

Please click the button below. You will be taken to our checkout page to pay the deposit. The deposit reserves your spot.

A Sample Retreat Day

This is an example of what a day at the retreat might look like. All activities are optional — skip any part, stay at the hotel, or explore with your family.

Morning

Breakfast Gathering

Join the group for a relaxed breakfast in our dedicated hotel dining area to start the day together.

10:00

Waterfall Walk & Gnome Hunt

A gentle walk through town along the waterfall. Kids can hunt for hidden gnomes on the trail. Tweens & teens can climb the hill and explore. Adults will enjoy the aerial views of the village below.

Length: easy, stroller-friendly sections
Good footwear recommended for hill sections

11:00

Wild Strawberry Discovery

As we walk, guides point out edible wild strawberries and teach kids how to identify berries safely.

12:00

Streamside Break & Optional Dip

Descend to the stream where locals enjoy alpine water baths and sunbathing on the rocks. A cold dip is optional but refreshing.

Afternoon

Lunch at the Historic Dam (Optional)

At 2:00 pm the group can return to town with an optional stop at a converted hydro-electric dam café — stunning waterfall and town views.

16:00

Free Time Back at the Hotel

Return to the hotel for free time. Options:

Kids: playground or supervised kids' club
Teens: game lounge and board games
Adults: quiet time, catch up on work, or relax

18:00

Group Dinner & Optional Night Out

Family-friendly group dinner at the hotel. Adults may choose an optional outing to town for drinks and live music while kids/teens continue with evening activities.