Warm, welcoming, and wonderfully relaxed - that's the spirit of the Oberforsthof. The sound of children's laughter is part of everyday life here, creating an atmosphere that's as joyful as it is contagious. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Pongau mountains, it's a place where families can slow down, reconnect, and spend meaningful time together surrounded by nature.

At this family-run retreat, little guests take centre stage. Ice cream before dinner? A later bedtime? A little extra excitement? It's all part of the holiday. There's room to play, explore, and simply be a child. And while the youngest guests are making unforgettable memories, parents can do the same - whether that's enjoying a quiet moment together in one of the hotel's peaceful hideaways or heading out for adventures the whole family will remember long after the holiday ends.

Whether you choose a cosy double room or a spacious family suite, every stay at the Oberforsthof begins the same way: by stepping into a warm, inviting retreat where Alpine charm meets contemporary comfort. Open the balcony door, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and let the rhythm of everyday life fade into the background.

Designed with families in mind, the generously sized suites offer everything you need to feel at home. Stylish living and sleeping areas, separate children's bedrooms, and spacious bathrooms mean there's room for everyone - and all the luggage that comes with travelling as a family. Evenings are just as memorable, whether you're watching a summer thunderstorm roll across the mountains from your balcony while the little ones are already fast asleep, or simply enjoying the peace that settles in after a day spent outdoors.

That same sense of space and ease extends throughout the hotel. The beautifully redesigned restaurant is flooded with natural light thanks to its floor-to-ceiling windows, creating the feeling of dining right in the heart of the mountains. On sunny days, the terrace becomes the perfect spot to linger over lunch or an afternoon coffee, while the garden invites children to play freely and parents to relax on a sun lounger. And when the weather turns, cosy lounge areas, a library, and family games ensure there's always somewhere to unwind together.

The recently opened FORA Spa is another highlight of the hotel. Families can splash, play, and relax together in the dedicated Family Spa, complete with a heated indoor pool, baby and toddler pool, family sauna, and fun water slides. For those seeking a little quiet time, the Adults Only spa offers a peaceful sanctuary with a soothing onsen-style pool, cold plunge, saunas, and tranquil relaxation rooms overlooking the surrounding greenery - the perfect place to slow down and recharge.

From sunrise to bedtime, there's always something to spark young imaginations at the Oberforsthof. Whether exploring alongside their parents or making new holiday friends, children have endless opportunities to play, discover, and create unforgettable memories.

Throughout the summer, little adventurers aged three and up can join the supervised Kids Club, where every day brings a new adventure. From arts and crafts and treasure hunts to animal feeding, splash-filled afternoons in the pool, and cosy movie nights with popcorn, the programme is packed with experiences that children will be talking about long after the holiday ends.

One of the biggest highlights? The hotel's own oberHof petting zoo. Friendly alpacas Paolo and Apollo are always ready for a visit, while miniature pigs Max and Moritz, rabbits, and chickens are equally popular with young animal lovers. For many families, the unforgettable experience is taking one of the alpacas on a guided walk through the surrounding countryside - a magical moment for children and adults alike.

The outdoor spaces are every bit as exciting. A large playground with swings, slides, a trampoline, and a spacious sandpit invites hours of carefree fun, while the brand-new Family Spa adds even more excitement with heated pools and thrilling water slides for all ages.

Thoughtfully designed for parents as much as for children, the Oberforsthof takes the stress out of travelling with little ones. Strollers, buggies, and child carriers for hiking are available to borrow free of charge, making family adventures effortless from the very first day. During winter, the hotel even offers its own ski school, while babysitting and childcare services for babies and toddlers can be arranged for extra flexibility.

And because anyone who's travelled with a baby knows just how much gear comes along, the hotel has already thought of everything. Cots, baby baths, changing mats, nappy bins, baby monitors, potty chairs, socket covers - you'll find all the essentials waiting for you. Better yet, the dedicated baby kitchen is fully equipped with kettles, bottle warmers, microwaves, sterilisers, cookware, as well as washing and drying facilities, so parents can pack a little lighter and spend more time enjoying what really matters: making memories together.

Come hungry - breakfast at the Oberforsthof is an experience in itself. Each morning begins with an abundant buffet showcasing fresh local produce, from warm pastries and artisan breads to regional cheeses, cold cuts, homemade spreads, egg dishes, fresh juices, and barista-style coffee. Younger guests are just as well looked after, with waffles, cereals, cocoa, and all their breakfast favourites waiting to be discovered.

Travelling with a baby? Everything has been thought of. A dedicated baby corner offers porridge, cereals, and baby food, while high chairs, bibs, and child-friendly cutlery make family breakfasts refreshingly easy.

After a morning of adventures, little explorers can refuel from the children's menu, grab an ice cream, or help themselves at the juice station. Meanwhile, parents can slow down with homemade cakes or a light afternoon snack, best enjoyed on the sunny terrace overlooking the mountains.

As evening falls, the hotel's culinary experience reaches its highlight with a beautifully prepared five-course dinner. Executive Chef Martin celebrates the flavours of Austria with seasonal ingredients sourced from the surrounding region, transforming traditional recipes into elegant dishes full of character. While adults savour refined Alpine cuisine, younger guests can look forward to comforting classics they'll happily finish to the very last bite.

There's no shortage of things to do at the Oberforsthof - whether you're staying on the property or setting out to explore the surrounding mountains. Thanks to the Höllwart family's thoughtful *Holiday by Design* concept, every day can be as relaxed or adventure-filled as you like. The hotel's Experience Cloud is packed with hand-picked recommendations, family-friendly excursions, and outdoor activities to help you make the most of your stay.

For young adventurers, the region is one giant playground. Test your courage on the treetop adventure course at Hahnbaum, or spend a magical day at Ghost Mountain (Geisterberg), where over 40 interactive play stations, castles, climbing towers, water features, swings, and the famous ghost train bring a world of imagination to life. It's the kind of place where toddlers, school-age children, and even teenagers find something to love, while parents soak up the mountain views or enjoy a leisurely lunch at a traditional alpine hut.

Looking to venture a little further? The spectacular Liechtenstein Gorge, the world's largest accessible ice cave, and Ferleiten Wildlife Park are all within easy reach, making memorable family day trips effortless.

Parents eager to explore the mountains on foot will appreciate the complimentary Herbie hiking shuttle, which runs several times a week to some of the region's most scenic trailheads. Guided hikes, bike tours, yoga sessions, and other activities are also part of the weekly programme, offering plenty of opportunities to discover the beauty of the Pongau together.

Good to know: During the summer months, guests receive the Sôha Summer Card, which includes a range of complimentary experiences and exclusive discounts throughout the region. Highlights include free admission to the Liechtenstein Gorge, a return ride on the Alpendorf cable car to Ghost Mountain, and many more family-friendly benefits that make exploring even easier.

True to the Mountain Hideaways philosophy, every image in this story was captured during our personal stay.

All images © Mela Hipp, 2026

Published: 2024 | Last Updated: 30.07.2026