OUTDOOR KIDS CAMP

• Merano
• 2025

• Accommodation

Outdoor Kids Camp – architecture, nature and fantasy

The Outdoor Kids Camp project is a new playground amidst the mountains realized within the Merano 2000 ski and hiking territory at the top station of the cable car that connects the city of Merano to its “terrace” in the mountains.

The project was born from the desire to rethink the “hill” on which the playground stands, given the importance of its location: it represents the first point of arrival in Merano 2000. At the same time, the aim was to create an attraction that would bring children closer to the mountains in a playful and fun way. The unique landscape of Merano 2000 is the guiding motif of the entire project.

The idea behind it is to bring the mountain environment and its experiences into the children’s playful world. The playground blends into the surrounding landscape and becomes an extension of it, playfully evoking the natural elements of the environment and typical mountain experiences.

The playground is spread over three terraces, bordered by wooden panels whose design echoes the surrounding mountain silhouettes. The organic shapes of these elements accommodate various games, in which children can exercise their strength, balance, and agility enhancing the kids’ motor skills while having fun. Climbing the terraces, jumping and balancing, represents the first mountain adventure for children, preparing them for future adventures on the surrounding peaks. The end of the “climb” is the big slide. It is like a stone at the top of a mountain, and it represents the highest point of the adventure within the park, and it is also a new iconic feature of Merano 2000.

The various games include trampolines, a sandpit, slacklines, a water game with pumps and dams, a via ferrata, an underground tunnel, climbing walls, a bridge to cross, balancing games, marble mazes, slides, nests to reach, ropes and logs, and a large net to climb on. In addition, various elements have been added to make the area enjoyable for the whole family: picnic tables and sun loungers on which to relax and enjoy the scenic view.

The materials and colors reflect those found in the natural environment of which the playground is part: wood and beige are interrupted by red elements, reminiscent of the iconic cable car station. The landscaping throughout the play area helps to harmonize the Outdoor Kids Camp with the surrounding landscape.

The Outdoor Kids Camp is an organic ensemble, a playful landscape in tune with the unique landscape of Merano 2000.