Heididorf: Where the Heidi Story Comes to Life
Step into the world of Heidi in Maienfeld, Switzerland, and experience the charm of this timeless Alpine village.
Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Maienfeld, Heididorf invites visitors to step into the pages of Johanna Spyri's timeless tale, Heidi. This unique open-air museum offers an immersive experience of 19th-century Swiss mountain life, showcasing the simple yet heartwarming world of Heidi, her grandfather, and their Alpine surroundings. Explore Heidi's House, a meticulously recreated version of the original dwelling, furnished to reflect the era and lifestyle depicted in the novel. Wander through the village and discover the schoolhouse, offering insights into the education system of the time. The Johanna Spyri Museum provides a deeper understanding of the author and the global impact of her work, with exhibits featuring props from various Heidi film adaptations. Interact with the environment and get up close with goats and chickens that roam freely in the village square. Visit Switzerland's smallest post office to send a Heidi-themed postcard. For a panoramic view of the region, follow the Heidi Trail to the Hotel Restaurant Heidihof. The trail continues to an old oak tree with a spiral staircase leading to the top, and Heidi's fountain, before winding back to Maienfeld. Heididorf is more than just a museum; it's a celebration of Swiss culture, literature, and the enduring appeal of a story that has captured hearts worldwide.
Local tips
- Heididorf is open daily from mid-March to mid-November. Check the website for specific dates and winter opening days.
- Purchase tickets on-site as online tickets are not available.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the Heidi Trail and exploring the village.
- Dogs are allowed in Heididorf but must be kept on a leash. They are not allowed inside the buildings.
- Consider visiting the Hotel Restaurant Heidihof for a meal with panoramic views.
A brief summary to Heididorf
- Oberdörfligasse, Maienfeld, 7304, CH
- +41813301912
- Visit website
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Maienfeld railway station, take the Heidi Bus (PostBus route 14) on Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays from May to October. The bus departs from Maienfeld, Bahnhof, and arrives at Maienfeld, Heididorf. The journey takes approximately 6 minutes. A single fare costs between CHF 1-3. Alternatively, you can walk from Maienfeld station to Heididorf via the Heidi Trail in approximately 40 minutes. Luggage storage is available at the Heidi-Shop/Tourist Information at Bahnhofstrasse 1.
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Car
From the A13 motorway, take exit number 13, 'Maienfeld'. Follow the brown signs for 'Heididorf' to reach the center of Maienfeld. From there, follow the signs with the car or bus symbol to Heididorf. The Heididorf car park is located directly at the Hotel Restaurant Heidihof. Parking is free.