If you are planning on booking a vacation rental in South Tyrol or a holiday rental in Trentino this autumn to hike, explore, take in stunning views, and breathe the freshest of air with your family, be sure to keep an eye out for something that is certain to delight any little ones (or those who are young at heart) in your group: marble runs!
Marble runs are elaborate tracks that curve, loop, make noises, and more when you set a marble on them. The marbles shoot along these marble runs and thrill those watching. And the best part? All you have to do is spend a euro or two at one of the marble vending machines (or bring your own along from home) to enjoy the excitement any time you encounter a marble run along the trail.
Here's everything you need to know to enjoy the marble runs that can be found in Italy's northern mountain regions...
1. Stock up while you can!
If you don't bring a marble from home, be sure to buy one as soon as you spot a dispensary selling the marbles. Oftentimes you won't find another for a long time and you'll have to miss out on all of the extraordinary runs and thrills that you will encounter along the way.
2. Best Marble Run In Trentino
The best known outdoor wooden marble run in Trentino can be found at Latemar MontagnAnimata in Gardonè. Getting to the run involves taking the Predazzo gondola lift from Val di Fiemme, which is already a fun way for the family to take in the surrounding area in its own rights. The run is just one activity to enjoy in this park alongside some thematic and child-friendly (also stroller-friendly) trails like the Dragon Forest, an Alpine Coaster, a tubing slide, and a playground. Longer and slightly more difficult hiking trails and biking routes are also available if your kids are slightly older or are up for more of a challenge. Interactive shows are offered along some of the trails at specific times and introduce kids to the area and a host of colourful and engaging characters. All of which is ideal for exploring the Alps in a way that kids can really get on board with!
3. Best Marble Run in South Tyrol
The Jochtal Adventure Park in Vals, near Brixen (Bressanone), meanwhile, is one of the best options for those interested in the marble runs of South Tyrol. Visitors start at the top station of the Jochtal Cable Car with a vending machine with wooden balls for sale and the first large marble run . Then there is a wide and stroller-friendly trail through the woods with a gentle incline. Along the way there is the bell station with dozens of cowbells and another marble run right next to it, a large wooden tractor, and more. There is also a wooden adventure play area with several more marble runs, swings, a giant climbing deer, a small village of wooden huts with slides and other toys, a play area with a pond, raft, and water games, picnic areas, loungers, and more that can all be enjoyed while taking in astounding views of the mountains. Just 20 minutes further along the trail are more toys, relaxation areas, and 360-degree panoramic views of South Tyrol’s mountain scenery at the Steinermandl Panoramic Platform.
If you're heading to the Alps, don't just enjoy the views and incredible hiking trails but make the most of the thrills and excitement on offer so that everyone in the group can have an unforgettable time during their vacation in Italy!