14-day Worldschooling
Austrian Skiing & Christmas Market Retreat
SKI SNOWBOARD
WINTER ADVENTURE
CHRISTMAS MARKETS
KRAMPUS PARADE
Activities | Resort | Rooms | Pricing | Sample Day | FAQ's
This trip is in 2027. For 2026 click here: Austria Winter 2026 Other Trips: Austria Summer 2027 and Austria Fall 2027
WORLDSCHOOLING IN AUSTRIA
Winter Retreat in the Mountains
Set in a snowy wonderland of Austrian peaks, this worldschooling ski retreat is the perfect place to connect, learn, play, and carve fresh tracks together.
Imagine waking up in a cozy Alpine resort, the snow-covered peaks of the Austrian mountains just outside your window, and your kids already buzzing with excitement for another day on the slopes. Our Austrian mountain winter trip is more than just a vacation — it's a magical blend of learning, bonding, and adventure that worldschooling families cherish. From ski lessons to Christmas markets to fireside chats with families from around the globe, every day is packed with moments that build connection and create lifelong friendships. Watching your children navigate a new culture, zip down powdery trails with newfound confidence, and laugh over hot cocoa with friends from different continents — these are the memories that stick. End the evening relaxing in the sauna as you rejuvenate for the next day. Austria offers not just breathtaking scenery and top-notch skiing, but a sense of community and wonder that stays with you long after the snow melts.
Welcome to our Austrian Winter Mountain Retreat!
Destination
Austrian Winter Mountains
Accomodation
Bad Gastein Resort
Dates
Dec 5- 19, 2027
Activities
Ski & Snowboard
Carve the Austrian Slopes with Friends
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 skiing to paragliding, thermal spas and experiencing new cuisines and cultures. We will carve powder snow mountains, take ski lessons, ice skate, ice curling, partake in local Austrian Christmas traditions, and more!
What learning opportunities will my kids have on this trip?
- Daily Encounters with Nature
- Explore Mountain Tops
- Healing Thermal Waters
- Alpine Ecosystems
- Independence and Confidence
- Nature Skills
- Physical Fitness
- Social Skills
- Group Collaboration & Team-Building
- Cross-Cultural Friendships
- Multi-Age Peer Interaction
- Local Customs and Traditions
- Immersive Traditional Christmas Markets
- Historical Exploration
- Real World Language Skills
- Living like a Local
- Observing traditional foods, crafts, and music
- Skiing & Snowboarding Lessons
- Ice Skating & Ice Curling
- Daily Active Play in Alpine Environments
- Snow Sledding (Tobogganing)
- Winter Hiking & Snowshoeing
Ready to join?
Mountain Winter Activities
Horse Sleigh Rides
Horse sleigh rides in Gastein for all ages, for groups or romantic for two!
Husky Dog Sledding
A thrilling dog sledding adventure through the snowy trails of Gastein, Austria.
Ice Skating
Glide across the sparkling ice at one of Gastein’s charming outdoor skating rinks.
Curling
Try your hand at traditional alpine curling on Gastein’s ice rinks for some friendly, family fun.
Tobogganing
Want to swoosh downhill through the snow? The Aeroplan natural sledding run in promises endless downhill fun for the whole family.
Winter Hiking
As you revel in the endless expanse of snow-covered scenery stretching as far as the eye can see, you’ll experience an invigorating alpine adventure
Ski Touring
The idyllic forest trails make this ski tour a must-do for nature lovers. Relax and enjoy some delicious local food on the spacious sundeck while soaking up the warm winter sun.
Paragliding
A tandem flight amidst the Gastein mountains is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll remember forever!
The Gastein Classics
Pro and Amateur ski races held Gastein. Attend as a spectator or sign up to compete! The Pro Team Race is followed by the Gastein Classics Challenger competition over 30 km, which is open to both professionals and amateurs. The thrilling Bad Gastein Criterium, a men's and women's mass start race over 36 kilometers.
Krampus Run
Krampus is a horned, beast-like figure from Alpine folklore — the dark counterpart to Saint Nicholas. On December 5 and 6, he comes to life as over 100 Krampus groups parade through the villages, clanging chains and wearing hand-carved masks in a centuries-old tradition called the Krampus Run.
Snowshoeing
The almost untouched winter landscape in the Austrian mountains beckons with its rolling hills, wide plains and steep slopes. You can really let off steam on a snowshoe hike and find the right winter hiking route for every level - from a leisurely hike to more challenging snow tours.
Mountain Carts
The “Early Winter Mountain Cart Rides at Fulseck” is a unique experience full of adrenaline and driving fun. Even before the official ski season begins, you can race down freshly groomed slopes into the valley in mountain carts with specially-tired tires from 7:30 a.m.
Horse sleigh rides
Sightseeing & Exploration
Suspension Bridge
The Stubnerkogel Suspension Bridge stretches 140 meters across a dramatic alpine ridge, offering heart-pounding views at dizzying heights. Walking across this swaying bridge is an unforgettable experience, with panoramic vistas of snow-covered peaks all around you.
Zip Line
Soaring above the snow-covered Gastein Valley, the Bad Gastein zip line offers a thrilling ride with panoramic views of the Austrian Alps blanketed in white. In winter, the crisp mountain air and frosted treetops make this high-speed adventure feel like flying through a winter wonderland.
Groomed Winter Hiking Trails
In winter, the Felsenweg Trail transforms into a magical, snow-dusted path with breathtaking views over the Gastein Valley. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly walk where you can take in the crisp mountain air and admire the frozen waterfalls and dramatic alpine cliffs.
Gastein Waterfall, Bad Gastein
Located right in the heart of town, this waterfall is an iconic sight and a perfect photo opportunity. Breathe in the ions from this magical and healing waterfall that patrons have been traveling to visit for thousands of years.
Christmas Markets & Holiday Fun
Bad Gastein Christmas Markets
Nestled in the snowy Austrian Alps, the Bad Gastein Christmas Markets offer a cozy, small-town charm with twinkling lights, handmade crafts, and warm seasonal treats. Surrounded by grand Belle Époque buildings and mountain views, it’s a magical spot for families to enjoy holiday cheer away from the crowds.
Bad Hofgastein Christmas Markets
The town center of Bad Hofgastein, with its pedestrian areas illuminated by Christmas lights, provides the unique setting for festive Advent markets. Tradition and variety are guaranteed by local folk-music groups, brass ensembles and Nativity plays. Every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from 3pm.
Salzburg Christmas Markets
The Salzburg Christmas Markets transform the historic city into a festive wonderland filled with twinkling lights, handcrafted ornaments, and the scent of roasted chestnuts. Set against the backdrop of the Salzburg Cathedral, these markets offer a magical holiday experience with traditional music, mulled wine, and cozy alpine charm.
Gastein Waterfall, Bad Gastein
The St. Johann im Pongau Christmas Markets blend alpine tradition with festive cheer, featuring local crafts, horse-drawn carriage rides, and twinkling lights in the town square. With the stunning cathedral as a backdrop and live music filling the air, it’s a warm, family-friendly way to celebrate the holiday season in the Salzburg region.
Christmas Markets
Thermal Spas & Wellness
Felsentherme Thermal Spa
Relax in natural thermal pools surrounded by breathtaking Alpine views. This spa offers both indoor and outdoor pools, sauna facilities, and panoramic relaxation areas, perfect after a day on the slopes.
Thermal Spa for Families
Known for its six themed spa worlds, Alpentherme offers family-friendly pools and slides, a sauna village, and a "Ladies World" spa section. There’s also an outdoor thermal lake open year-round.
Sauna, Whirlpools, Steam Rooms
Unwinding in the saunas is a beloved part of the alpine wellness experience, offering deep relaxation after a day on the slopes. With panoramic mountain views and soothing heat, these saunas help melt away tension and restore both body and mind.
Radon Healing Waters
The healing waters of Gastein, Austria, are rich in natural radon and have been used for centuries to support pain relief, joint health, and overall wellness. Whether soaking in a thermal spa or visiting the famous Gastein Healing Caves, many visitors report a deep sense of relaxation.
Ready to join?
Slopes & Ski Runs
Austrian Ski Slopes
Schlossalm-Angertal-Stubnerkogel
The largest interconnected ski area in Skigastein. Easily accessible by ski bus, it caters to all kinds of winter sports fans with ski runs of all difficulty levels.
Graukogel Mountain
The exhilarating steep slopes, weaving through the enchanting stone pine forest, make for a wind-shielded and wonderful skiing experience.
Sportgastein Mountain
Sportgastein’s allure also extends beyond the slopes into the thrilling world of off-piste freeriding.
Dorfgastein Mountain
Situated at 2,033 meters above sea level, this family-friendly skiing destination boasts over 70 kilometers of ski runs catering to skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels.
Enjoy the Beauty of the Winter Austrian Mountains
Austrian Alps Endless Beauty
Ready to join?
Your Mountain Resort
Our Austrian Worldschooling Mountain Ski 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 the Austrian slopes this winter.
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 hitting the slopes as much as possible as well as enjoying other winter activities in the area.
Included Facilities and Perks of your Stay
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.
What Others Say About Our Trips
It was kind of a leap of faith and, oh my goodness, my expectations were more than exceeded! Not only was the booking for reals, and Elena a real person, she is amazing! I don’t know how she does it, all that trouble-shooting and organizing and still she is a blast. Super fun and welcoming and full of love and positive energy. Go, go, go! You will not be disappointed!
Jocelyn
THE. BEST. TIME! If anyone is thinking about signing up next year, DO IT! I could not imagine having a more fun 2 weeks! Elena and Joe worked so hard to put together an incredible trip and it shows!
Ashley
We had never done anything like this before our April trip. IT WAS AWESOME! Our kids had such a great time and we loved being in a group and having a sense of belonging and understanding. Elena is legit and does a wonderful job putting these trips together. My family is so thankful that we found her
Barry
Thank you very much to the whole group for a wonderful experience of traveling and learning together! And, SPECIAL GRATITUDE to Elena and Joe, our group leaders and organizers, for amazing accommodations, at a truly great value!
Maria
You know how people sometimes say "I could never be kidnapped... I talk and eat too much that the kidnappers would go broke trying to feed me and crazy from listening to me chatter on endlessly"? Elena and Joe could never be kidnapped either. But they know their isht, they're 1000% real and they're committed to this life. I think if they were kidnapped... the kidnappers would end up worldschooling with them... just folded into the tribe.
Wren
Our Austria trip was everything I’d hoped it would be. Before we even got on the plane, I told my husband, “If this works out, these worldschool tours may be how we travel for the foreseeable future.” The idea that I could go on a vacation that I didn’t plan myself, and actually enjoy each and every activity chosen for me, seemed too good to be true. But we love being outdoors, we love hiking, we love playing… so this trip seemed like a great fit. And we weren’t disappointed! Not only was the itinerary a blast, but this was the first trip in a long time that actually seemed like a vacation. This mama didn’t plan a single activity, cook a single meal, figure out any transportation… I was truly able to “vacate” and simply enjoy. The locations and hikes Elena and Joe chose were beautiful, the playgrounds and other kids’ entertainment kept my son occupied for days, and the spas were an awesome respite for my husband and me. We WILL be going back… and we WILL be booking future worldschooling adventures with Elena and Joe!
Mary
We are leaving tomorrow and heading back to Munich from where we fly home this Friday. What we had imagined for this trip was far exceeded by the reality. Trish you were spot on when you said you didn’t imagine you would make so many wonderful friendships so quickly. Austria still has an open ticket of places I want to see and experience. I felt like this was a bit like summer camp for adults as well. You come in a little nervous, unsure of what to expect (sharing your holiday with complete strangers-for some of us) and find that no matter where you came from we all love adventure, seek play (inner child), and are willing to challenge ourselves out of our comfort zones. I have memories with each member of this group (big and small). I loved watching how the group worked as a community taking care of each other always offering to help. Elena and Joe you fill a much needed void of helping people connect with other people. Allowing for a space to forget all things (political/social etc) and existing as humans and focusing on the essence of life.
Cheers to a great trip!
Jael
I found myself tearing up getting on the van earlier. Thanks to everyone. This was such a special experience. I’m beyond grateful for how everyone embraced Zachary and supported me too. Please reach out whenever in the Pacific NW. I very much look forward to staying in touch with you all.
Debbie
Pricing & Availability
1 adults 1 kid
1 Studio
Starting at
€2,600
1 adult 2 kids
1 Bedroom
Starting at
€3,400
1 adult 3 kids
1 Bedroom
Starting at
€3,650
1 adult 4 kids
1 Bedroom
Starting at
€3,900
2 adults 1 kid
1 Bedroom
Starting at
€3,400
2 adults 2 kids
1 Bedroom
Starting at
€3,650
2 adults 3 kids
2 Suites
Starting at
€5,450
2 adult 4 kids
2 Suites
Starting at
€5,700
- 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.
- 14 nights of lodging
- Resort Amenities
- Private Dining Room
- Additional Kids Club Hours and Staff
- Dedicated Co-Working and Gathering Room for our group
- Retreat Fees
- Apartment w/ Kitchenette
- Retreat Leaders
- Event Schedule
- Free Train and Bus Travel Card
Gov. Tax (15+ years): 4.50 € per person/day
Frequently Asked Questions
Please click the "Reserve Your Spot" button right below this section. Here you will be taken to our checkout page to pay the deposit. The deposit reserves your spot. aPlease click the "Book Now" button right below this section. Here you will be taken to our checkout page to pay the deposit. The deposit reserves your spot.
You can find our contact information at the bottom of this page if you need help.
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
Yes, there will be a list of suggested excursions and activities offered throughout the retreat that you're welcome to join if you wish. While the main focus is on skiing, ski lessons, and exploring as many mountains and runs as possible, we’ll also include optional outings like visits to nearby villages, scenic hikes, and relaxing trips to the Gastein Valley’s famous thermal spas — perfect for winding down after a day on the slopes.
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, 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, ski equipment rentals, ski lessons, and laundry.
Purchase a ski lift pass for the number of days that works for you. The more days you buy, the cheaper the daily rate.
Ski or Snowboard lessons is highly encouraged. You may sign up for however many days you'd like, based on your needs and budget. Approx pricing - For a group lessons: 5 days of lessons are about 363 EUR per person. Lessons are 4 hours per day with a lunch break in the middle. See the section above for more pricing breakdowns. More details on the registration page.
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 free with your mobility card you get with your booking.
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 90 days or less to the retreat start date.
- September 5, 2025
Final payments are due 60 days before the retreat date.
- October 5, 2025
Refund Policy for Remaining Balance (After Non-Refundable Deposit)
More than 60 days before retreat start date: 100% refundable
46–60 days before: 50% refundable
31–45 days before: 25% refundable
30 days or less: Non-refundable
In any case, we recommend travel cancellation insurance.
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.
Ski & Activities Costs
Ski Lift Passes
Adult:
€320 – €377
Youth (born 2007–2009):
€240 – €282
Child (born 2010–2019):
€160 – €188
Equipment Rentals
Adult
- Starter Set: €163
- Sport Set: €198
Youth Set (≤15 yrs): €123
Child Set (≤120 cm): €63
Lessons
Group Lessons (5 Days)
Adults: 2 hours/day €259
Children: 4 hours/day €363
Private Lessons (Optional)
2- 4 hours: €228 – €372
Adult Package:
- Lift Pass: ~€350
- Rental (Sport Set + Helmet): €198.90 + €24.30
- Group Lessons: €25
- Total: ~€832
Child Package:
- Lift Pass: ~€175
- Rental (Child Set + Helmet): €63.00 + €15.30
- Group Lessons (incl. lunch): €363
- Total: ~€616
- Jacket & Pants Rental: €97.20
- Private Lesson (2h): €228
- Avalanche Gear / Safety Equipment available
Half Board Options
Adults: from €47 per day
Children: from €25 per day
Thermal Spa Prices
Adults: €47
Children: €27
Christmas Market
Ice skating boot rental: €4
Curling: €6
Additional Activities
Paragliding: €145
Zip line: €25
Other Activities
- Opening date: December 8th
- Age requirement: 6+
- Capacity: 6 per sleigh (18 people total)
- 2 sessions per day
- Price: €40 per person
- Price: €8 per person (round trip: lift up + sleigh down)
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. Ski Lessons and Skiing are a priority, but it will be up to each family how many lessons and ski days is comfortable for them.
Morning
Breakfast Gathering
Start your day with a cozy group breakfast in our private hotel dining space, surrounded by panoramic mountain views and the chatter of excited kids.
10:30
Ski School Drop-Off
Kids and teens head to ski or snowboard lessons with certified, age-specific instructors. Adults can hit the slopes, enjoy a quiet morning in the hotel, or co-work with other parents.
12:30
Mountain Lunch Break
Meet at a ski-in/ski-out mountain hut for a warm, casual lunch. Kids can share what they’ve learned before everyone heads back out for more time on the slopes.
16:30
Free Time at the Hotel
- Kids: supervised kids’ club or snow play
- Teens: board games and social hangout
- Adults: rest, read, work, or enjoy alone time
Everyone settles in and unwinds after a big ski day.
18:00
Group Dinner & Optional Evening Out
Enjoy a relaxed dinner together at the hotel. Adults who want a night out can head into town for drinks or live music while kids and teens continue evening activities in the lounge or kids’ club.
20:00
Thermal Spa & Sauna
A soothing end to the day. Families can visit the thermal spa (with kid-friendly zones) for warm pools, saunas, and wind-down time before bed.
Photo Gallery
What's Included?
What's Not Included?
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach the retreat is to fly into Munich, Germany or Salzburg, Austria. Both cities offer direct trains to Bad Gastein.
Fly Into
- Munich (MUC) – large international airport
- Salzburg (SZG) – closest & easiest connection
Tip: For the cheapest route from the US, fly to London or Paris first, then to Salzburg.
Cheapest Flight Combinations
- MIA/ORL → London $145 → Salzburg $40
- New York → Paris $160 → Salzburg $50
- Los Angeles → Paris $290 → Salzburg $50
- Minneapolis → London $290 → Salzburg $54
- Denver → London $453 → Salzburg $40
- Atlanta → London $350 → Salzburg $40
- Seattle → London $290 → Salzburg $40
Direct Flights + Train
- Orlando → Munich $640
- New York → Munich $510
- Atlanta → Munich $590
- Seattle → Munich $570
- Los Angeles → Munich $620
- Denver → Munich $710
Train to Bad Gastein
- From Munich → $35 • 3.5 hrs
- From Salzburg → $0 • 1.5 hrs
Once in Salzburg, your travel cards cover free train & bus rides.
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.
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