A family adventure in Isonta's valley
Hiking and playing in the realm of the Celtic fairy Isonta? It sounds magical - and it truly is! On the Play & Hike trail, families can enjoy a relaxing day outdoors full of movement, nature, and water fun.
The trail connects the hiking villages Piesendorf and Niedernsill over a distance of 6.4 km - with almost no elevation gain. Along the way, you'll discover 12 creative nature play stations that make hiking playful and exciting for all ages.
Whether jumping, balancing or exploring - you'll play your way along the Salzach river, through a valley once settled by the Celts. Even today, the Naglköpfl hill, a place of ancient energy, watches over the valley - and can be seen clearly from the trail.
The name Isonta comes from the Salzach river itself. The people who once lived here called themselves the Ambisontes - "those who live by the Salzach".
Then as now, water is essential for life: for drinking, bathing, farming - and as a shared habitat for humans and animals. Along the way, you'll encounter topics like flood protection, water treatment, and nature conservation - presented in a playful and child-friendly way.
At the end of your journey, the natural swimming lake in Niedernsill or the Hinkelsteinbad pool in Piesendorf awaits - perfect for relaxing and cooling off.
A day in Insonta's realm? Sounds good. And it is.
Good to know
This trail leads you right into nature - which is wonderful, but also calls for mindfulness:
🐶 Dogs are NOT allowed on the trail - to protect grazing areas and animals.
📍 Please stay on the marked trail and be aware of fences and gates.
🌊 At the Salzach river and other water spots, pay special attention - never leave children unattended near water.
🌱 Respect plants, animals and habitats - let's protect this special place together.
Whether you start in Piesendorf or Niedernsill - both villages offer convenient parking. The Pinzgau Lokalbahn train also stopsjust steps from the trail, making a car-free journey easy.
The Play & Hike trail is about 7 km long and ideal for active families. It's mostly flat, well-maintained, and easy to walk.
If you're hiking with toddlers, please bring a child carrier or an off-road buggy. Some parts of the trail lead cross meadows and farmland, divided by gates or pasture fences - there you may need to lift the buggy briefly.
How do the nature games work?
Along the trail, you'll find game stations marked with signs (in German). Simply scan the QR code, switch to the language English and follow the 4-step instructions - including a tip for the activity. You can get startet right away!
Of course, every game can be adjusted to fit your child's age, mood, and interests. Nature is the most beautiful playground - and your imagination knows no bounds!
Why play?
Playing is a wonderful way to explore the nature between Piesendorf and Niedernsill with all your senses. Each station invites you to be active together: discover, learn, move and laugh.
- And the best part? While playing, the path seems shorter - the kids are engaged, the parents are relaxed, and everyone goes home with new ideas.
- Tip: Many of these games work just as well in your own garden or local park!
- Looking for more outdoor fun? The outdoor game collection (in German) offers many more creative ideas for playing outside - just try them out and keep playing!
All games at a glance
Which way will you hike?
Whether you start in Piesendorf or Niedernsill - here you'll find the right route description for your discovery tour along the Hike & Play trail.
👉 Just follow the game stations and dive into the magical valley of the Celtic fairy Isonta.
"We believe that nature is the world's greatest playground. We want to inspire people to get outside and explore. Playing builds a connection between people and nature - it nurtures, challenges, and gives us unforgettable moments outdoors."
