Erlebniswald (Fairytale Forest)

Hinterglemm’s fairytale woodland is a popular attraction for families and tourists in the Austrian Alps. It is a forest trail with wooden carvings of characters from fairytales and local folklore, as well as animals and plants. The fairytale woodland was created in 1986 by local wood carvers and is open all year round, day and night. It is free to enter and has three access points near the town of Hinterglemm. The fairytale woodland is part of the Kids Hiking Challenge and the Kids Winter Challenge, which are fun activities for children in the region.

Imagine walking through a forest where you can meet Snow White and Rose Red, Little Red Riding Hood, and Frau Holle. Where you can see gnomes, water wheels, and mushrooms. Where you can hear the sound of a mountain stream and the rustle of leaves. Where you can feel the magic of nature and the stories that have been told for generations. This is what awaits you at Hinterglemm’s fairytale woodland, a unique attraction that has been enchanting visitors for more than 35 years.

The fairytale woodland is located about one kilometer from the Hinterglemm town center, in the heart of the Saalbach Hinterglemm valley in the Austrian Alps. It is a loop trail that covers about two kilometers and takes about an hour to complete. Along the way, you will encounter more than 80 wooden carvings of characters from fairytales and local folklore, as well as animals and plants. The carvings are made by local wood carvers who have put their passion and skill into creating realistic and expressive figures. Some of the carvings are interactive, such as the water ghost who turns the water wheel, or the witch who pops out of her house. Others are hidden among the trees, waiting for you to discover them.

The fairytale woodland is not only a place to admire the art and craftsmanship of the wood carvers, but also a place to immerse yourself in the stories and legends that have shaped the culture and identity of the region. The fairytales and folklore that are depicted in the fairytale woodland are mostly from the books of the Brothers Grimm, who collected and published the oral traditions of Germany and neighboring countries in the 19th century. Some of the stories are well-known, such as Cinderella, Hansel and Gretel, and Rapunzel. Others are less familiar, such as The Three Snake Leaves, The Golden Bird, and The Six Swans. The fairytale woodland also features characters from local folklore, such as the Perchten, who are mythical creatures that drive away evil spirits during the winter, or the Krampus, who is a horned beast that punishes naughty children during the Christmas season.

The fairytale woodland is not only a place to learn about the history and culture of the region, but also a place to enjoy the beauty and diversity of nature. The fairytale woodland is situated in a natural forest that is home to various species of trees, flowers, and animals. Some of the animals that you can see in the fairytale woodland are deer, squirrels, rabbits, and birds. Some of the plants that you can see in the fairytale woodland are ferns, mosses, mushrooms, and berries. The fairytale woodland also follows the course of a mountain stream that adds to the charm and tranquility of the scenery. The fairytale woodland changes with the seasons, offering different colors and atmospheres throughout the year. In spring, the fairytale woodland is filled with fresh greenery and blossoms. In summer, the fairytale woodland is a cool and shady refuge from the heat. In autumn, the fairytale woodland is a riot of reds, yellows, and oranges. In winter, the fairytale woodland is a snowy wonderland with sparkling lights.

The fairytale woodland is a place that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. It is a place that appeals to the child in everyone, who loves to explore, imagine, and play. It is a place that inspires the adult in everyone, who appreciates the art, culture, and nature. It is a place that connects the past and the present, the local and the global, the real and the fantastic.