14-day Worldschooling
Austrian Summer Mountain 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 for 2027. For 2026 click here: Austria Summer 2026 Other Trips: Austria Fall 2027 and Austria Winter 2027
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!
Destination
Austrian Mountains
Accomodation
Bad Gastein Resort
Starting Dates
May 30 / Jun 13 / Jun 27, 2027
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.
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?
- Hiking
- River and Alpine Lake Bathing
- Ice Cave Visits
- Guided Forest Walks and Playgrounds
- Independence and Confidence
- Nature Skills
- Physical Fitness
- Social Skills
- Local Customs and Traditions
- Historical Exploration
- Language Skills
- Living like a Local
- Climbing/Hiking/Biking
- Daily Playground Visits
- Swimming
- Forest Foraging
Enjoy the Beauty of Austrian Mountain Valleys
Ready to join?
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
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?
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
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
€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
- Lift Tickets
- Retreat Leaders
- Registration Fees
- Organized Itinerary
- Apartment
- Entry Tickets, Lift Tickets, Coaches, Tour Fees
- Transportation
Gov. Tax (15+ years): 4.50 € per person/day
Frequently Asked Questions
Please click one of the buttons in the "Book Now" 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. 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 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
Ready to join our group?
Please select the date you'd like to attend. 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. A rest day is built into the itinerary every 3 days.
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.
20:00
Thermal Spa & Sauna
Wind down with spa and sauna time before bed — a perfect end to the retreat day.
Real Austrian Mountain Village Living
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 $220 → Salzburg $54
- New York → Paris $167 → Salzburg $54
- Los Angeles → Paris $233 → Salzburg $54
- Minneapolis → London $461 → Salzburg $54
- Denver → London $453 → Salzburg $54
- Atlanta → London $453 → Salzburg $54
- Seattle → London $418 → Salzburg $54
Direct Flights + Train
- Orlando → Munich $986
- New York → Munich $898
- Atlanta → Munich $715
- Seattle → Munich $1,108
- Los Angeles → Munich $1,108
- Denver → Munich $1,108
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 select the date you'd like to attend. You will be taken to our checkout page to pay the deposit. The deposit reserves your spot.
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