Heididorf: Where Heidi's Story Comes to Life

Heididorf, located in Maienfeld, Switzerland, is more than just a village; it's a living tribute to Johanna Spyri's timeless tale of Heidi. This idyllic locale brings the story to life, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the world of the cheerful orphan girl and her life in the Swiss Alps. Founded in 1888, Heididorf recreates the 19th-century setting of Heidi's story, showcasing traditional Swiss architecture, lush green pastures, and breathtaking mountain views. As you wander through the village, you'll encounter Heidi's Alp Cottage, a replica of the hut where she spent her summers with her grandfather. Explore the cellar used for food preservation, the kitchen where Heidi and Goat Peter did their homework, and Heidi's bedroom with its simple wooden furniture. Visit the 300-year-old Heidi House, the heart of the village, furnished as it would have been in Heidi's time. Discover the schoolhouse in the town hall, where Heidi and Peter attended classes, and learn about the Swiss education system in the 1880s. The village also features a barn with goats and a horse-drawn carriage, a souvenir shop, and Switzerland's smallest post office. Heididorf is an interactive experience, encouraging visitors to touch and engage with the environment. Get up close with goats and chickens in the village square, and learn about medicinal herbs. The Heidiland museum above the gift shop offers insights into Johanna Spyri's life and the global impact of her Heidi novels. Open from mid-March to early November, Heididorf welcomes visitors daily from 10 am to 5 pm. From December to mid-March, it opens on select days, with updated hours on the website. Tickets are CHF 14.90 for adults and CHF 6.90 for children aged 5 to 14. Children under 4 enter free, and those under 10 must be with an adult.