Alpenzoo, Innsbruck

I love the Alpenzoo! Whatever the season, there is plenty to see and do, and there's no reason to feel sorry for the animals in winter as they only stock animals native to the alps. So, if you're looking for lions, tigers etc, look elsewhere! The walks around the zoo are pleasant even in poor weather as there are plenty of rest stops, sheltered from wind and rain with tremendous views over Innsbruck, including a great view of the olympic ski-jump which shows you just how scary that sport is. All the animals seem happy and at home and my kids love it. There is a farm animal section for smaller children which gives them the opportunity to touch, smell and see animals up close. The otters are real show-offs, putting on an entertaining variety act when they're not asleep (which is quite often). The bears come up close enough to smell too - much bigger than you'd expect. The sound of the wolves howling at noon or the lynx barking at passers by stays with you a long time. Value for money refreshments are available year round and the shop stocks a lot of educational stuff to take home. Best value of all are the posters, costing from �3.60 which I have up on the kid's bedroom walls. I recommend this to anyone with or without kids, in any weather, on any budget. However, be aware of some steep-ish hills which manual wheelchair users would struggle with. Other than that, everyone is friendly and cheerful and are happy to see you. I forgot... there's a lovely bear-inspired adventure playpark for the kids too. Aim to spend a good half-day there - the place isn't that big!