The Sound of Music – Mayrhofen, Austria

Phenomenal.  Gorgeous. Breathtaking.  Family friendly.  Highlight.  We decided to go to Mayrhofen, Austria for several reasons.  First, we were heading back to the Middle East and we were coming out of extreme business and going into extreme business.  We needed a break and were not going to get one unless we escaped completely.  Second, Erich had fond memories of being in this area (skiing Hintertux) when he was younger and he wanted us to share in those memories.

Erich found an apparthotel online that we booked for several days.  Boasted two rooms, bathroom and kitchen!  I’ll take it!  Also it boasted a yard for kids to play.

Apparthotel Ederfeld

So, aside from Opal vomiting several times a day and me being 7 months pregnant, it was fabulous.  I desperately needed the rest.  Our appartment was fabulous!!  One bedroom and one living room that could convert to a bedroom.  Cute little kitchen with small stove, toaster oven/microwave, refrigerator and dishes.  The backyard of the establishment was amazing.  You could sit in one of the lounge chairs on the grass and gaze at the Zillertal Alps directly in front of you… no obstructions.  Meanwhile, while you are relaxing, sipping a glass of schnapps MADE by the Ederfeld family, your children are playing on the small playground  in the corner or jumping on the trampoline or exploring the grounds around the hotel.  Sound impossible?  No, this is truly what it is like.  Ok, granted, this area is best known for its skiing and winter sports, but don’t let that stop you from enjoying the area in the summer.  There is loads to do and see in this alpen village!

We took the cable car up the mountain and hiked around… pet the alpen cows with those huge bells around their necks (more cow bell anyone).  We sat and sang Edelweiss, of course.  We roamed the quaint town of Mayrhofen, rode the train that gave us a tour around the town and basically enjoyed a leisurely few days.

I have attached a short video my husband did of our time in Mayrhofen.  We will go back!

TIPS:

1.  Apparthotel.  I HIGHLY recommend staying in an apparthotel (apartment/hotel).  These are amazing!  At least two rooms, PLUS a small kitchen, bathroom and foyer.  The absolute best for families with kids.  The appart hotel we stayed in was Apparthotel Ederfeld.  Delightful!!!  Gorgeous backyard area overlooking the Alps, large grassy area for kids to run around, small playground, relaxing outdoor area for eating and socializing.  Additionally, a small grocery store was located on the front side of the apparthotel, so any and all food needed was easily attainable!  They also had workout room, sauna… we plan to go back and ski in the winter!

2.  Explore, explore, explore!

3.  It rained a bit while we were there, so having games for kids to play or movies to watch are helpful as everything on tv was dubbed.

4.  Mayrhofen Tourist Office offers babysitting referrals.  There is also a Guest Kindergarten for kids ages 3 months to 7 years old called Wuppy’s Kinderland.  We did not use either of these options as we were not skiing, I was pregnant and we just wanted to spend time together, BUT, there are options if you are interested.