14-day Worldschooling

Austrian Summer Retreat

Explore forests, mountains and waterfalls together

Authentic Austrian worldschooling adventure

Visit Salzburgerland and local mountain villages

Build new relationships and lifelong friendships

WORLDSCHOOLING IN AUSTRIA

Summer Retreat in the Mountains

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

Picture your kids running barefoot through the flower fields with other children from all over the world, laughing, messing around, making wild flower bouquets, chatting away with each other. Parents walking behind them talking about worldschooling, digital nomading or the latest destination they loved. The kids come across a stream and start splashing each other. They are now absolutely soaked, but no one cares. They are allowed to be children in nature. And you finally have that "village" that gets you and supports you. You're surrounded by gorgeous snow capped peaks. The air feels fresh and your heart is full. That is what the next 2-4 weeks is going to look like for your family and it feels good

Welcome to our Austrian Mountain Retreat!

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Destination

Austrian Mountains

Accomodation

Bad Gastein Resort

Starting Dates

May 31 / Jun 14 / Jun 28, 2026

Theme

Finding your inner child in nature

Austrian Mountain Worldschooling Experience

Worldschooling Community

Spend two weeks with like-minded families who share your passion for worldschooling and travel. This is an opportunity for you and your kids to create lasting friendships and build a supportive network while exploring a new country together and spending time immersed in nature and culture.

Explore the Austrian Alps

Discover the breathtaking mountains of the Austrian countryside and the rich history of Salzburg, all while having a comfortable home-base with other worldschooling families where you can build life-long friendships and connections.

Activities for the Entire Family

Enjoy a range of family-friendly activities, from hiking and biking to paragliding to thermal spas and experiencing new cuisines and cultures. We will swim in lakes and rivers together, climb mountains, explore mountain-top playgrounds, see ice caves, taste Austrian dishes and forest bathe.

What learning opportunities will my kids have on this trip?

Daily Nature Experiences

Hiking
River and Alpine Lake Bathing
Ice Cave Visits
Guided Forest Walks and Playgrounds

Life Skills and Personal Growth

Independence and Confidence
Nature Skills
Physical Fitness
Social Skills

Cultural Immersion and History

Local Customs and Traditions
Historical Exploration
Language Skills
Living like a Local

Physical Activities

Climbing/Hiking/Biking
Daily Playground Visits
Swimming
Forest Foraging

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Field Trips & Activities

Mountain Activities

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 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.

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.

Rucki Alm playground

Combine active exploration with peaceful moments — from scenic hiking paths and water play areas to cozy rest spots with alpine views, perfect for reconnecting with nature, family, and the spirit of adventure.

Sightseeing & Exploration

Werfen Ice Caves

Open only during summer months, the world’s largest ice caves offer a fascinating underground experience. Explore shimmering chambers, towering ice formations, and breathtaking frozen landscapes carved by nature deep beneath the Austrian Alps.

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.

Gastein 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.

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

Perched high above the valley, Burg Hohenwerfen is an 11th-century medieval castle. Explore history, architecture, and falconry traditions, and watch the thrilling Birds of Prey show demonstrating speed, precision, and centuries-old hunting techniques.

Traditional Pig Roast & Solstice Celebration

Bellevue Alm

Perched at 1,265 meters, Bellevue Alm offers breathtaking panoramic views. With a history spanning over 600 years, this unique alpine location invites visitors to experience tradition, scenery, and the charm of centuries-old mountain hospitality.

Traditional Pig Roast

During summer, enjoy lively barbecue evenings featuring suckling pig roasts, alm parties, and live music. Savor delicious local specialties while relaxing in the alpine paradise of Bad Gastein, surrounded by scenic mountains and festive atmosphere.

Live Music

Experience authentic Austrian culture with live music, traditional dances, and local drinks. Gather with friends and family to celebrate, enjoy lively performances, and soak in the joyful atmosphere of alpine evenings filled with melodies.

Summer Solstice Celebration

Celebrate the summer solstice with a spectacular alpine tradition. Hike remote mountain paths to light fires on peaks and ridges, enjoying stunning views as day slowly turns to night in this unforgettable seasonal event.

Ready to join?

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Austrian Alps Endless Beauty

Your Mountain Resort

Our Austrian Worldschooling Summer 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 summer.

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 in summer

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

Pools and Hot Tub

Full Bar & Restaurant

Studio Apartments

1 Bedroom Apartments

2 Bedroom 2 Bath Suites

Meal Plans

Enjoy fresh, local meals during your stay. Half-Board is highly recommended for breakfast and dinner, while lunch is optional on excursions.

Ready to join?

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Pricing & Availability

1 adults 1 kid

1 Studio

Starting at

€3,500

1 adult 2 kids

1 Bedroom

Starting at

€4,600

1 adult 3 kids

1 Bedroom

Starting at

€5,450

1 adult 4 kids

1 Bedroom

Starting at

€6,300

2 adults 1 kid

1 Bedroom

Starting at

€4,600

2 adults 2 kids

1 Bedroom

Starting at

€5,450

2 adults 3 kids

2 Suites

Starting at

€8,000

2 adult 4 kids

2 Suites

Starting at

€8,850

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.
Booking extra nights will increase the total.
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.

14 nights of lodging
Resort Amenities
Group Activities
Group Tours
Entry Fees
Lift Tickets
Retreat Leaders
Registration Fees
Organized Itinerary
Apartment
Resort Amenities
Main Group Activities
Entry Tickets, Lift Tickets, Coaches, Tour Fees
Retreat Leaders
Transportation

Gov. Tax (15+ years): 4.50 € per person/day

Frequently Asked Questions

Please click one of the buttons in the "Reserve Your Spot" button right below this section. Here you will select the date you'd like to attend and be taken to our checkout page to pay the deposit. The deposit reserves your spot. Please be sure to book your accommodations and make the final payment before the deadline. Hotel pricing will be added by July 31st, 2025.

You can find our contact information at the bottom of this page if you need help.

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. We have never had an issue whether families did not get along.

During our past cruises, 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 who sailed with 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 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.

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

- Non-refundable 150 days or less to the retreat start date.

- January 1st, 2026 for First Session

- January 15th, 2026 for Second Session

Final payments are due 120 days before the retreat date.

- January 31, 2026 for First Session

- February 14, 2026 for Second Session

Remaining balance refund schedule after non-refundable deposit:

100% Refundable more than 120 days before

50% Refundable more than 90 days before

25% Refundable more than 60 days before

Non-refundable less than 30 days before

In any case, we recommend travel cancellation insurance.

Yes, you may join for two sessions. The first session will be a slower, easier pace, with rest days built in. The second session will be back to our full schedule. If you would like to join both sessions your dates would be May 31 - June 28.

Read this post about our mission and vision: POST