Kinder Kaiserland, Scheffau, Austria

Kinder Kaiserland is the award-winning children's ski school at the top of the Brandstadl Mountain in the resort of Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser, Tirol, Austria.

This innovative children's ski park is designed specifically for children to take their first steps on skis away from the hustle and bustle of the slope. Take the gondola up to the top of the mountain and you can't fail to miss Kinderland with it's snow castle and mini-pistes, not to mention it's special flags waving in the breeze.

The whole idea is based on sport and fun - learning this delightful sport in a safe environment whilst making a real holiday of it.

Ski carousels are where most children start their ski course, learning to slide and balance as they go round and round, playing games to improve their skills. A series of conveyor lifts, including The Mini Lift and The Zwerger Lift mean that little legs don't have to do much work in between runs.

When children can stop they progress to The Grottenbahn and find themselves going through the snow castle to the top of a series of mini-runs including bumps, bells, turns and steps. Here the real fun starts as children gain in self-confidence and learn to turn and balance before heading onto The Zauberteppich - the magic carpet!

By the time children have reached this lift it's time to start free slalom and perfect their technique before venturing out onto the mountain with their instructor.

Daily visits from Bobo, the ski school mascot, and his friends the Ice Bear and Snowman liven up proceedings no end and the children will learn Bobo's special dance in time for the Prize giving on Friday. Don't worry if you're a parent who's feeling left out - come along at the end of the morning and afternoon sessions and you too can learn what to do.

If all that's not enough the children can take a rest in the Kinderland Express and sit back as the dragon drives around the park before everyone goes home. A perfect end to an exciting day learning and having fun in Kinder Kaiserland.

Smaller children (2 to 4 years) can enjoy Kinder Kaiserland at lunchtime for their own special mini lesson. 45 minutes of Kinderland fun in groups not exceeding 4 children to 1 instructor. Successful minis can join the full course when they're ready to do so.

Opening Times: Daily throughout the season -
9.45am to 12 noon and 1.30pm to 3.30pm