ALPE Winter 2011/2012 EN

Winter 2011/12

ALPE Alpe di Siusi Magazine

CASTELROTTO · SIUSI ALLO SCILIAR · ALPE DI SIUSI · FIÈ ALLO SCILIAR

Music at its best Swing on Snow

Safety Piste Angels in action

Delicacy Favourite dish in South Tyrol

www.alpedisiusi.info

Werbemitteilung / Messaggio pubblicitario

Der Hände Arbeit hat Zukunft.

Lavorare per il futuro.

Der Schaffenskraft Südtiroler Bauern verdankt unser Land einen Großteil des heutigen Erfolges.

Und der Erfolg von heute ist das Kapital der Zukunft. Raiffeisen steht zur Verantwortung für den Lebensraum.

Ziel dabei ist es, Tradition zu erhalten und Zukunft zu sichern.

L’Alto Adige deve una grossa parte del suo attuale successo all’impegno degli agricoltori.

E il successo di oggi è il capitale del futuro. Raiffeisen si sente responsabile dell’ambiente in cui viviamo e intende sia preservare la tradizione che garantire il futuro.

Unsere Geschäftsstellen / Le nostre filiali: Kastelruth / Castelrotto

Seis / Siusi

Seiser Alm / Alpe di Siusi

Tel. 0471 711 711 E-Mail: rk.kastelruth@raiffeisen.it

Tel. 0471 711 700 E-Mail: rk.seis@raiffeisen.it

Tel. 0471 727 944 E-Mail: rk.kastelruth@raiffeisen.it

Überwasser / Oltretorrente

Runggaditsch / Roncadizza

Tel. 0471 711 800 E-Mail: rk.ueberwasser@raiffeisen.it

Tel. 0471 711 811 E-Mail: rk.runggaditsch@raiffeisen.it

www.raiffeisenkastelruth.it

Photo: Helmuth Rier

Editorial & Contents

Dear friends,

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Swing on Snow Alpe di Siusi WinterMusicFestival Page 10

Arnold Karbon and skiing

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intertime and Christmas magic, culture and culinary delights: skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing and cross country skiing, paragliding over the Dolomites and ice-skating at the Lake Laghetto di Fiè, huts charm and alpine wellness – the holiday area Alpe di Siusi is the place of unlimited incantation.

Whatever you decide to do, you will forget your everyday life in any case for the duration of your holiday. Perhaps some of the following articles may inspire you to try out something out of the ordinary that will really excite you.

In the following pages, bon vivants, sports lovers and all those who would like to get to know traditions of the Holiday Area Alpe di Siusi will find interesting news. This issue features “Swing on Snow”, the Alpe di Siusi WinterMusicFestival: in January, the festival impresses with a mixture of alpine sounds and contemporary interpreted folk music. The culinary highlight is all about a round delicacy, the “Knödel” (dumpling). It get’s sportive with Arnold Karbon, father of the alpine ski racer Denise Karbon, who dedicates his time and

enthusiasm to the new generation of skiers. In “A day with Michelle”, ski instructor Hubert Aichner tells us about his most famous “student” Michelle Hunziker. For a safe snow experience, there is the piste rescue service: have a close look at its everyday work for all winter sports fans in the article “First aid in the snow”. “Global summiteers” tells the story of three high fliers and their conquest of the Seven Summits. Dive into Peter Senoner’s world of art, discover and explore with us the picturesque village of Castelrotto and get to know about the right jewellery to each traditional costume.

We wish you a wonderful, pleasant and unforgettable holiday, good health and relaxation.

Eduard Tröbinger Scherlin, President for Alpe di Siusi Marketing and the Tourist offices of Castelrotto, Siusi allo Sciliar, Alpe di Siusi and Fiè allo Sciliar

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Mountain high: Destination Seven Summits Page 16

A day with Michelle Hunziker Page 20

Rescue on the pistes in action Page 25

Traditional jewelry Page 28

Castelrotto: a complete work of art Page 32

Peter Senoner’s world (of art) Page 34

A round delicacy Page 36

Recipe: Spinach dumplings Page 38

Winter Highlights ’11/12 Page 40

Summer Preview ’12 Page 42

Around & About

Winter | ALPE 3

Experimental “Folk” Music

4 ALPE | Winter

Swing on Snow Alpe di Siusi WinterMusicFestival

“Swing on Snow” came into being at the start of the new millennium thanks to the vision of Alpe di Siusi’s ski-lift managers. Music on the ski slopes abounds, but often a night of booze and good cheer simply isn’t enough. That’s why South Tyrolean journalist and festival curator Hartwig

Mumelter put together a program with music that would boost the quality levels somewhat. The working title “Swing on Snow” was so well liked by one and all that it went on to become the festival title. Very little “swing”, however is actually played; the groups embody the finest of Alpine folk music at its purest and most experimental: Music that comes from the folk, that has its roots in ancient traditions and that may entail some accustomed sounds. But then again, who can honestly say that they are accustomed to the sounds of the Swiss zither? No doubt the musicians themselves are equally unaccustomed to seeing their saxes freezing as they play. Weather permitting, the hut-concerts in the afternoons will be played in the open air - and with over 300 days of sun in South Tyrol, the chances are high. In the evenings, the villages of Castelrotto, Siusi and Fiè allo Sciliar will be enlivened with more traditional sounds as “Swing on Snow” moves a little closer to the traditional “Stubnmusi”, fireside music. »

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concerts in 23 unusual settings: From the 22nd to the 29th of January 2012, visitors to Alpe di Siusi can enjoy a taste of original music at its best: outstanding bands from the Alpine region will be transforming Europe’s highest alpine pasture into one immense stage. 60 kilometres of slopes for Alpine skiers, 80 kilometres of cross-country trails, 30 kilometres of winter walking paths and seven tobogganing slopes totalling 18 kilometres all lead to the “Swing on Snow” concerts. You will also find the King Laurin snow park, 2 speed traps, 4 self-timers, numerous ski parks for kids and romantic horse-drawn carriage rides. The free-entry concerts will take place on the slopes in the mornings, in the mountain huts in the afternoons, and in the villages at the foot of the legendary Sciliar mountain in the evenings. Over 4000 fans are expected for the seventh “Swing on Snow”, the Alpe di Siusi WinterMusicFestival.

Extraordinary bands from around the Alps bring swing to the slopes of Alpe di Siusi and the villages of Castelrotto, Siusi and Fiè allo Sciliar

Text: André Bechtold Photos: Helmuth Rier, André Bechtold, Andrea Zecchini

Winter | ALPE 5

Perfect open air arena

“Swing on Snow” is as wide-ranging as it is surprising. There’s one thing that the musicians from Germany, Austria, Italy, Switzerland, France, GreatBritain and Slovenia have in common, however: the way in which their modern take on traditional folk music mirrors the musical culture of the Alpine area. In 2012 a few surprises are in store for spectators and listeners.

The kick-off on Sunday (January 22, 2012), goes to Austrian “Stelzhamma”, paying tribute in name to the Austrian poet Franz Stelzhammer, at the Alpe di Siusi mountain station. “Stelzhamma” guarantee an entertaining combination of verve and modern musical styles. “Charly” Karlheinz Schmid’s fourpiece band is refreshing and fast-paced, ever with a glimmer of wit and a swinging ease. “Stelzhamma” will play the morning concerts until Thursday and can be heard all over the slopes of Alpe di Siusi.

In the mornings from Friday January 27th 2012 until the following Sunday, local band “Bifunk” are a must-hear and above all, a must-see. When the

6 ALPE | Winter

entertaining band is on stage no feet can remain still, and before long skiers are sure to pull up and join in the dancing on their skis. Giorgio Beberi has found here not only experienced musicians but also a highly entertaining team, whose polonaise in the snow is by now legendary.

The Hotel Icaro open the “Swing on Snow” 2012 afternoon concerts on Sunday (January 22, 2012), playing host to 6-member band “Crossfiedler” at 1pm. Don’t panic if you hear talk of Knödel (dumplings) seasoned with piri-piri – it’s just a spot-on description of the crossover style of “Crossfiedler”: Fireside music meets samba night in New Delhi with Irish fiddle tunes. Icarus would undoubtedly have planned his flight to greater effect if he’d had the benefit of these spellbinding strains.

At the heart of Castelrotto’s history and in the centre of the famed village, the memory of Kraus Fodor von Sala, aristocratic landowner of Hungarian descent, lives on, above all in the imposing Krausegg

Palace. Just a few metres down the Kofelgasse from the palace, you will find the old courthouse to your right. Now the Hotel Zum Turm, on Monday (January 23, 2012), it provides the perfect setting for the “Crossfiedler” concert at 9 p.m. Young landlords Günther & Gabi will be your hosts for the evening in this historical building.

A Spafudla is a character, a lovable rogue, or one who brandishes a torch. Equally as curious are the “Saltner”, the traditional herdsmen of Alpe di Siusi, whose role was laid out in no uncertain terms as far back as the 16th century; among the inventory of what they must and, more importantly, mustn’t do, regulations stated that he had to keep a discreet distance from women, all the more so if dairymaids or spinsters. The “Saltner” of Alpe di Siusi today welcome the Austrian quartet “Spafudla” to their mountain hut on Monday (January 23, 2012). And who knows? Perhaps a few of the Saltner from days gone by will creep out from their hide-outs on the Sassopiatto to enjoy the music of Bernadette and

Lucia Froihofer who, together with their brother Gabriel and all-round talent Daniel Fuchsberger, play with passion, humour and originality.

If the old guardians should ever decide to abandon their pastures, it would be to see “Spafudla” on Tuesday (January 24, 2012) at 9 p.m. in the Vinebar Rubin in Castelrotto. Host Sandra Schgaguler will be serving exceptional wines, while the music of Castelrotto is in good hands for the evening.

And there’s much more to see and hear: Hotel Palindrome with Albin Paulus, one of the world’s leading virtuosos on the Jew’s harp, playing in the Alpenhotel Panorama and the Hotel Heubad. Austrian “boy-band” Federspiel will be cheering the Tirler, and later the Sanon hut for the end of the festival, with their Hungarian-influenced sounds.

Christine Lauterburg from Switzerland is playing with “Doppelbock” at the Molignon hut, guest of restaurant owner of “Alfio”, whose wife Meggi will be preparing some special drinks for the »

Info box More information on bands, dates and places can be found at www.swingonsnow.com.

If you’ve missed “Swing on Snow 2012” live, you can listen to the bands and two of each of their songs on the CD of the same name and mark the dates in your diary for the “Alpe di Siusi WinterMusicFestival Swing on Snow 2013”, beginning on Sunday January 20th and ending on Sunday January 27th 2013.

Easier to remember: “Swing on Snow” takes place in the last week of January every year!

Winter | ALPE 7

Brass and wood

occasion on the terrace. “Doppelbock” will be also be playing in the Romantik Hotel Turm in the evening, while Slovenian Gypsy band “Langa” will be performing in the breathtaking setting of the mountain cabin Zallinger, in the heart of Alpe di Siusi. 9 p.m. on Thursday (January 26, 2012) will see you straight from the slopes to Après Ski Santner at the valley station of the Alpe di Siusi, where Hermann Trocker and his team will be mixing some distinctive cocktails to go along with the passionate music of “Langa”, while at the Williams hut the “Col de Carlot” will be shaking to the sounds of French accordionist Miranda Cortes and the fiery temperament of British Marianne Wade.

Sunday (January 22, 2012) is a date to remember: “Swing on Snow 2012” will be staging the progressive folk music of cult Tyrolean band “Opas Diandl” at the Hotel Genziana in Siusi allo Sciliar.

The grand finale on Saturday night (January 28, 2012) sees the appearance of “Aluna”, an interesting “duet” with best-selling author Veit Heinichen in the majestic hall of Castle Prösels. South Tyrol is one of the themes, and Oswald von Wolkenstein will certainly get a mention.

Post Script: On the way to Alpe di Siusi on the cable car from Siusi to Compaccio, travellers will see a castle ruin in the wood under the Santner peak. This is Hauenstein/ Castelvecchio, the famed castle in which, half a millennium ago, Oswald von Wolkenstein wrote some of the most influential songs in the German language. He couldn’t suffer the sight of snow, and wrote “The sorrow is leaving my heart, as at long last the snow is melting and flowing down from the Alpe di Siusi and the Flack”. Who knows what he would have made of “Swing on Snow”! Possibly he would have said “The sorrow is leaving my heart, as at long last I can ski on Alpe di Siusi once more”. Maybe he’s listening to the concerts too, together with the guardians, witches, fairies, King Laurin and the fairytale kingdom between the Sassolungo, the Sassopiatto and the Sciliar. «

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THE DOLFILAND “THEME PARK”!

The art of woodcarving from South Tyrol.

Come and have a tour in the heart of the Dolomites and visit the fascinating WORLD OF WOOD!

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> OPENING HOURS: MO-SA 800 - 1200 1400 - 1800

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Arnold Karbon and skiing Arnold Karbon has made his most favourite pastime his profession. The father of the world-class skier, Denise Karbon, is himself a keen skier and trainer of the ambitious new generation of skiers of the Holiday Area Alpe di Siusi.

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lthough Arnold Karbon is on the ski pistes for almost the whole year round, his enthusiasm for skiing has not waned over the many years. On the contrary: “I have skiing in my head for 365 days of the year. Whenever the season ends in spring, I then think again about new plans for training. I just like my job,” Arnold Karbon said.

Athletic with short grey hair, Arnold Karbon does not look his 59 years, especially if seen on his skis on the pistes among his athletes. You could think that he was one of them. The skiers and Arnold Karbon form an entity, they belong together. Very few of his age have made the transition from the long downhill skis to the carving skis so successfully. “I tried these new skis and knew that they were made for me.” It was exactly the same with his talented daughter Denise. Rather small and slightly built, she took to the shorter skis and new style of skiing very quickly. “She was one of the first who went to the races with the carving skis,” says her father and trainer proudly of the successful skier.

Text: Barbara Pichler Photos: Helmuth Rier

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As a genuine native of Castelrotto, Arnold Karbon could ski from a very early age. There was already a lift in Castelrotto at that time. At the age of six he went on a ski course of the sports club and already took part in several races. Since then Arnold’s enthusiasm for racing has not waned. After his apprenticeship in a sports shop in Bolzano

he did his military service with the sports group of the Carabinieri and took an active part in skiing for nine years. During this time, Karbon took part in many races and won the Italia cup twice. It was the time of Gustav Thöni, Helmuth Schmalzl and Erwin Stricker, certainly the most successful years for Italy’s national team.

Towards the end of the 1970’s, Arnold Karbon began to train the children in Castelrotto and since then skiers of both sexes have consistently made it to the national team or even to the world cup group. At the present time, the two most successful skiers of the Sciliar region and the pride of Castelrotto are Karbon’s daughter and nephew, Denise Karbon and Peter Fill. On the successful skiing career of his daughter he said: “I am consistently surprised at the amount of hard work and assertiveness Denise has put in after her injuries to find her way back to the world cup again. After various setbacks she has always managed to be among the frontrunners of the world cup. That does not come easy. You have to work very hard for this.”

Training centre of the Holiday Area Alpe di Siusi. At the beginning of the 1990’s, a group of parents keen on sports set up the training centre of the Holiday Area Alpe di Siusi. The idea behind it was that all three sports groups of the Holiday Area Alpe di Siusi could train together. From the beginning Arnold Karbon supported the young talents as trainer. »

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12 ALPE | Winter

The athletes of the training centre of the Holiday Area Alpe di Siusi listen carefully to their trainer’s advices

Denise Karbon and Peter Fill: Top World-Cup athletes from Castelrotto

Most athletes of the training centre go to a sports school. The training together takes place especially in summer. Between May and October the group ski up to 35 times on the Val Senales glacier.

There they ski freely in turns, work on their technique or train between slalom poles. In the meantime the group moves about in the mountains or on dry runs. In order to make the training more varied, Arnold Karbon has built a course in cooperation with the municipality and the improvement club in the woodland above the sports field.

The programme in the wood fills the young athletes with enthusiasm. “The training has become more varied in recent years. It is important to train coordination as well. There are still athletes who

would prefer to train only on strength-improving equipment. Strength is of course good, but skiing is dynamic. It needs strength when moving,” Karbon explains.

Arnold Karbon describes himself as strict but consequent. His passion for skiing and racing fills young skiers with enthusiasm and the training centre was able to record successes again and again in recent years. Denise Karbon and Peter Fill represent it in the world cup; Alex Hofer has been nominated this year for the national team C group and Elisabeth Egger for group B. They are definitely successful results that bode well for the future! «

Winter | ALPE 13

Stefan Rier, Stefan Mahlknecht and Helmut Kritzinger: Together on world’s highest mountains

Global summiteers Seven Summits-success celebrated in Fiè allo Sciliar

Text: Rosa Maria Erlacher Photos: Helmuth Rier

14 ALPE | Winter

fantastic achievement that friends and mountaineering enthusiasts recognised with a lot of applause at a joyous mountaineer festivity. The mountain guide Helmut Kritzinger from Fiè and Stefan Rier and Stefan (known as “Steve”) Mahlknecht from Castelrotto succeeded at something many alpinists had dreamed of for a lifetime.

The seven highest mountain peaks in the world. The three friends climbed each of the highest mountains in each continent, beginning in 2001 with Kilimanjaro in Africa and then followed at almost yearly intervals the Cerro Aconcagua in South America, Mount Elbrus, the highest mountain in Europe (if we define the main ridge of the Caucasus Mountains as the inner Eurasian border in accordance with today’s view), the Carstensz Pyramid in New Guinea as primus of the mountain peaks of the Australian tectonic plate, Mount Vinson in the Antarctic, Mount McKinley in North America and finally in May 2011 the superlative eight-thousand-metre-high Mount Everest, whose successful ascent put the cap on the ten-year project, Seven Summits.

Careful preparation. “We really stumbled into this project,” the three friends remember smirking. Stefan and Steve, both innkeepers by profession, were super fit men in their early thirties ten years ago when they got together with Helmut for the first time, who spent their leisure time climbing in the Dolomites and going on ski tours and lusting after new challenges. “After we had climbed Kilimanjaro with Helmut, we were so enthusiastic of the mountain experience, by the exotic nature, by the strange culture, that we wanted to repeat something similar without fail,” Steve relates. After that mountaineer expert Helmut suggested climbing Aconcagua to them that he himself already knew, on condition that they carry out a carefully elaborate programme of preparation with fitness and stamina training and periodic assessments of their fitness.

“All our efforts paid off completely on the Aconcagua because the mountain put us non-experts to the test, especially as we had to climb such a height without oxygen,” both Stefans reported. They were not at all averse to the pleasurable side of life such as a good glass of wine, good food and other luxuries of everyday life. The drudgery however also had its advantages. Each new peak strengthened their selfconfidence, steeled their will and caused them to lose not a few pounds in weight.

Border experiences. Each of the seven mountains has buried itself in its own special way deep into the memory of the

three “conquerors”. They remember the McKinley in Alaska as a physically very challenging mountain that they conquered at bitterly cold temperatures and fierce wind speeds with about 55 kg of luggage in tow split between rucksack and sledge. The Carstensz Pyramid in New Guinea was completely different again. At 4,884 metres above sea level it is not especially high, but, because of its 600 metres wet climbing wall, is however technically very challenging. “The journey lasting several days through the Papuan jungle under the hardest climatic and hygienic conditions and the exciting meetings with its original inhabitants were an adventure on their own,” relates Steve.

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Have they never asked themselves why they actually go through all these exertions? Of course they have, they remember the conditions in the Antarctic hostile to man where they came very close to despair. At a bitterly cold -47° C the stormy blasts of wind had blown away their tents and the complete isolation racked their nerves. “It was our South Tyrolean pig-headedness that motivated us to persevere,” is how Stefan recalls the exciting experience on Mount Vinson.

Arriving back healthy. The three of them took three weeks leave of absence for each mountain and, as the mountain guide Helmut emphasises, were unbelievably lucky enough to be able to climb each peak at the first attempt. Only for the mountain of all mountains, Mount Everest, they estimated two months in spring in order to acclimatise body and mind.

They chose the rather more challenging but less dangerous north route from Tibet as the way up, set up three camps and waited for favourable weather. “Without bottled oxygen we would never have managed Mount Everest.” They both unanimously admire the achievement of Reinhold Messner, who is the only South Tyrolese to have climbed all Seven Summits before them.

For a start, they both now look back, are astonished themselves in retrospect at what they were able to do, what they were able to withstand and are pleased at the same time that they have overcome everything safe and sound.

New challenge. Mountain guide Helmut on the other hand is already moving on to new pastures again. He now has the Seven Second Summits in his sights. They are apparently much more difficult from a mountaineering point of view than the seven highest peaks. The two Stefans can no longer keep up. But they are certainly there in their thoughts ... «

Winter | ALPE 15

16 ALPE | Winter

Dream on: Hubert, ski- school teacher, is a lucky man for having had the chance to ski with Michelle Hunziker

A day with

Michelle »

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t New Year 2011, a breeze blew in from St. Moritz over the Alpe di Siusi in the shape of a blond angel who preferred the sunny and snug Alpe di Siusi to a sophisticated winter sports resort. Michelle Hunziker is well-known in Italy from various shows and especially as a presenter on “Striscia la notizia”, an Italian satirical TV programme. The attractive Swiss woman, proficient in languages, has presented the highly rated German TV show “Wetten, dass..?” with Thomas Gottschalk since 2009 and has also gained a high degree of popularity in the German-speaking region. The former wife of Eros Ramazzotti also works as a model and actress and with her good looks and fascinating charisma is often emblazoned on numerous front pages of magazines.

Last winter the TV star took a short time out on the Alpe di Siusi. ALPE asked the ski instructor Hubert Aichner how he got on with Michelle Hunziker.

ALPE: How well does Michelle Hunziker ski?

Hubert Aichner: Michelle is a good skier. For this reason she was not looking for a traditional instructor, who would practise with her and give her technical instructions, but she simply wanted only to ski with someone familiar with the surroundings. I was astonished and positively surprised when we set off for the first time. Michelle skis technically well, very fast and skis every piste non-stop.

Does that mean that Michelle is very fit?

She is very well trained and has a lot of stamina.

Because of the lurking paparazzi, our choice of pistes was unfortunately limited. Because the photographers were always waiting at the bottom of steep slopes, we often had to avoid them by using easier slopes.

How did Michelle react whenever she was recognised?

Usually quite well. Most skiers recognised her, especially at the ski lift. She then always approached people, even when eating when she was surrounded by children. She was happy to be photographed with people and gave autographs.

Sometimes however she was not recognised.

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Interview: Elisabeth Augustin Photos: Helmuth Rier

Winter | ALPE 17

Did she have “staff” in tow?

Apart from her boyfriend and a girlfriend there was nobody. As I said, Michelle was very casual and unaffected.

Party time: Michelle Hunziker and her friend Kerstin Zago celebrating some nice moments

Did Michelle speak German or Italian with you?

We spoke Italian because she had Italian friends with her. Interestingly enough Michelle

And South Tyrol’s traditional cuisine?

I got the impression that she would especially like the dump-

read the menu in German and explained to her companions what there was to eat and what Knödel (dumplings) are.

lings, but she also watches her figure and counts the calories when she eats. She could not resist South Tyrolean desserts.

Where did Michelle stay when on holiday?

She stayed at the five star Hotel Alpina Dolomites.

Does Michelle like to have fun?

Absolutely. Once she wanted to dance waltzes on the piste according to the freestyle technique. On the third attempt she managed to make the turn finally. And as I said she was otherwise very casual.

For how long has Michelle Hunziker been coming to the Alpe di Siusi?

She was here once a few years

18 ALPE | Winter

ago with her daughter and came again last winter. And I am convinced that we will see her here again if she has time. She enjoys the plentiful sun and the unique landscape of the Alpe di Siusi.

What did Michelle do on holiday when she was not skiing?

That unfortunately I do not know. We did nothing private and I was not there for the evening programme.

But were your colleagues not jealous?

Yes, to a certain extent.

Some of my colleagues would definitely have liked to have skied with Michelle Hunziker.

I was the lucky one who had that privilege. All the more I was asked how it was.

And what happened when it was all over?

She gave me a kiss on the cheek and a photo to remember her by! «

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The piste helpers on their rescue vehicle

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moment of carelessness is enough for you to end up lying in the snow. The best advice is to remain calm whenever there is an accident on the piste. If it is possible, move away from the danger zone such as bottlenecks, knolls or ridges in order not to endanger yourself and others. And if you or someone else dials the emergency number 118, you can reckon on quick support.

118 is a magic number. It takes you directly to the provincial emergency call centre, the central coordinating centre for all South Tyrol’s rescue services. And it caters for speedy help to the farthest corners of South Tyrol with a rescue vehicle, helicopter or even with a snowmobile. In this case you notify the piste rescue service on the Alpe di Siusi immediately from there, known in short as piste service.

Piste service Alpe di Siusi. Helping is in Klaus’s

Text: Rosa Maria Erlacher Photos: Helmuth Rier

DNA. His father was in the Alpe di Siusi mountain rescue service, BRD for short. He himself, an excellent climber and skier, was also in the BRD earlier. During the warm seasons he works in his profession, but is always on call whenever it is essential to speed to all kinds of accidents in the mountains. Voluntary and unpaid work and risking his life at the same time. A friendly helping hand. »

First aid in Rescue on the pistes in action 20 ALPE | Winter

n the snow Winter | ALPE 21

In order to be able to offer properly qualified first aid, he spends a lot of his spare time training for emergencies with the main emphasis on piste rescue. This winter he and his friend Robert have reported for piste rescue service on the Alpe di Siusi full-time at all weathers daily from morning to evening as long as the pistes are open. If a lot is happening at weekends and peak seasons, they are supported by voluntary helpers. Otherwise they could hardly cope with those days with up to 20 operations!

The Aiut Alpin rescue helicopter knows how to deal with difficult situations

22 ALPE | Winter

700 operations. The mountain rescue service has carried out the piste service for many years commissioned by the lift operating company Alpe di Siusi –Val Gardena, as safety on their pistes is close to their heart. They also support the police, known as the Carabinieri in Italy, who have to guarantee public safety on pistes and carry out investigations in the event of accidents.

According to Klaus, the piste service of BRD and the Carabinieri recorded more than 700 opera-

> February 7, 2012

South Tyrol Moonlight Classic Alpe di Siusi

Klaus and Robert enjoy working as piste rescuers

tions last winter on the Alpe di Siusi. About 75 per cent of these involved skiers and snowboarders, in about 70 operations tobogganers were rescued and the rest involved hikers and cross-country skiers. They have covered more than 5,000km in their snowmobiles and 50 times the rescue helicopter had to be requested because there was a suspicion of grave injuries or because it did not appear to be advisable to move the injured party over the piste for other reasons.

The moon will be astounded when it peeks over the Dolomites. Because that’s when the starting pistol will fire for a cross-country marathon of a most unusual kind. At 8 p.m., namely, several hundred cross-country skiers will shove off from Compaccio and glide on their narrow skis in the light of their forehead-mounted lamps through the luminescent night-time winter landscape.

They’ll follow the route for 20 or 36 kilometers, finally returning to their starting point. But the „South Tyrol Moonlight Classic Alpe di Siusi“ is a fantastic experience not only for the participants, but for the spectators, too! A ski show with veterans, romantic alphorn sounds in the stillness of the night, traditional dishes and a fire show provide the perfect setting for the crosscountry race. www.moonlightclassic.info

In action. State-of-the-art equipment is needed to provide the best possible patient care for causalities. Rescuers must be on the spot within a few minutes in order to help, whether a matter of traumas or medical emergencies. For this reason rescue vehicles and emergency rucksacks are always ready. A rescue sledge, vacuum mattress and warming sleeping bag are used to bring patients down to the valley as carefully as possible. It is a boot-shaped aluminium sledge attached to a snow mobile. The rucksack contains a first aid kit with oxygen and an external semi-automatic defibrillator (AED), a medical device that can stop arrhythmia by quick shocks and for which both piste rescuers have been specially trained.

Lift personnel and ski instructors often turn out to be valuable helpers at the accident location. Whenever the rescue helicopter is required the piste has to be closed off. Accordingly it is important that communication between pistes and air rescue has to function perfectly. The same is true whenever »

Winter | ALPE 23

Air rescue and piste service work perfectly together

the patient is handed over to the paramedics of the rescue vehicle. The medical measurement data taken at the accident location is passed on and can be very valuable for further medical care.

Everything ok? The piste rescuers let their eyes wander across their area of operation, Alpe di Siusi’s piste and path network

24 ALPE | Winter

“For a start, we have to take the patient somewhere warm, for instance the first aid station at Compaccio, or the rescue vehicle comes as close as possible to us and takes us from there, possibly with an emergency doctor, to the nearest hospital,” Klaus explains how the rescue chain functions consistently.

A variety of activities. “Piste service covers very much more than only piste rescue,” comments Klaus. For example to start with the rescuers have to use a lot of psychological finesse to calm down patients, understand their fears, explain what is going to happen and inform and attend to the next of kin. They work closely with the Carabinieri, if they are investigating the accident, and they are also the point of contact for parents whose children are missing. “That happens often,” Klaus relates, “but usually the children report back of their own accord or we track them down very quickly.”

Finally, they can rely on a network of helpers, lift personnel, ski instructors, innkeepers etc, who all keep their eyes and ears open and are happy to help whenever it is necessary.

Only seldom do both piste rescuers find the time to relax in front of the TV, to bask in the winter sun or to ski without stress. In addition to rescuing, they also pass on their knowledge. For instance, when they prepare volunteers for piste rescue, or whenever they introduce school classes and ski course participants to the basics of first aid and safety precautions on and away from ski pistes.

Because as we so aptly say: prevention is better than cure. «

The silver watch chain with pocket watch is part of Castelrotto’s male traditional costume

Rural jewellery

Y

es, the people of Castelrotto take traditional costume very seriously: each traditional costume needs the right jewellery. Castelrotto’s goldsmith Udo Zemmer knows exactly which the right one is. People go to him whenever they want jewellery for diverse traditional costume.

The traditional costumes indeed look very much alike, specified by centuries of old traditions, however at least some small indulgences are allowed.

Perhaps to show that you “do not fall off the turnip truck”, as people say in Castelrotto, and are not poor and can afford an opulent watch chain whose bulky silver thalers jingle at every step.

Men’s jewellery. Men wear the “jingling chain” with formal traditional dress with buck leather shorts with white socks Udo explains. It is a real show-piece and consists of several silver link chains from the ends of which hearts, Tyrolean eagles or ornate thalers and silver coins with the wearer’s initials jingle above the belt. The chain is fixed in the second button hole of the waistcoat and stretches more or less loosely to the left waistcoat pocket where the watch is – on the left because it is usually taken out with the right hand.

The watch itself may or may not have a lid and can be more or less elaborately decorated. That is not as important as the chain, explains Udo, because it is usually in the pocket. »

» »

Each traditional costume needs the right jewellery

Text: Rosa Maria Erlacher Photos: Helmuth Rier

Winter | ALPE 25

The “Bairische Kette”, a silver brooch and the “Stecherle” are ornamental elements of Castelrotto’s female traditional costume

The formal male traditional costume with long trousers on the other hand is worn with the “Herzlkette” (chain with hearts), which also consists of several silver chains but is more modestly worked and held together with one or several silver hearts.

On the other hand, the everyday male traditional costume made from brown loden cloth and velvet waistcoat only needs a simple silvery curb chain that is more practical than decorative and is stretched from one waistcoat pocket to the other.

If you do not consider other embellishing additions to male traditional costume such as feathers, flowers or tassels on the hat, a belt decorated with pinfeathers, velvet bows, ruffs and gold braid then there remains still the “Tüchlring” of gold that each owner of traditional costume must call his own. It is rather small in diameter so that the colourful silk cravat that is pulled through on both sides does not slip. It is made of filigree and shows a smooth badge as the visible part or a heart with initials.

Female jewellery. The outstanding Gollerkette (necklace) for women equates to the “Schlatterkette” for men. The name “Goller” comes from the Latin concept “collare” for necklace. The chain is part of the lacy necklace, a white collar with broad lace that is typical for the immaculate traditional costume and for the traditional costume with the green hat. It is a rather massive silver chain that is made rather delicately, Udo explains, because the links are only bent. The chain is fixed by eyelets under the armpits and hangs in loops from the breast 26 ALPE | Winter

with the ends in spirals that catch the eye.

The other pieces of jewellery for women are very much simpler: the silver hairpin, the golden earrings, the “Bairische Kette”, a silver brooch and the “Stecherle”, a cross with safety pin to pin it to the stomacher.

Each silver hairpin is unique, Udo emphasises, and both sides are shaped like lancets and engraved with flower motives and refined subsequently by hand work. It decorates the plait on the back of the head.

The tradition-conscious women of Castelrotto often wear golden earrings everyday that is not only in traditional costume.

The Creole earrings all look the same at first glance: flat tapered downwards hexagonal rings. On closer inspection however you can see that they really are different in shape and size.

The “Bairische Kette” on the other hand is looped three times round the neck worn exclusively on a “Bairische” robe, the formal traditional costume with the black velvet bodice. (“Bairisch” means “rural” as opposed to “lordly”, and is used to describe everything that is not local in the dialect of Castelrotto).

In addition, a silver brooch also adorns the collar. “Small coins with symbols for belief, hope and love are very popular for the brooches,” the goldsmith reports. Sometimes a small ruby is inserted. This preference for coins arose during the difficult war years when people could no longer afford to have the brooches engraved with flowers or decorative fancy shapes in silver as earlier. «

Expert hands form the Original Castelrotto “Tüchlring” in filigree

The golden earrings of Castelrotto’s women have to be flat and hexagonal

Winter | ALPE 27

28 ALPE | Winter

The Mendelhaus and the frescoes of Eduard Burgauner

Castelrotto: a work of art The character of the village of Castelrotto is shaped mainly by the baroque tower visible from afar. However, Castelrotto’s landmark is also surrounded by an impressive classic parish church, an architectonically interesting parish hall, painted houses and a porphyry hill steeped in history in the middle of the village.

The village square. Not until summer 2011 did

For this reason each tour of the village begins with the history of the church tower. In 1753, a village fire destroyed a large part of the houses and the Gothic church with its tower. The worst loss for the citizens of Castelrotto was the peal of bells that had melted in the fire. A village without bells was just about unthinkable in the 18th century.

They served not only to announce the time and church services, but at the same time were a defence against storms and calamities. Thus a few courageous farmers tackled the job with determination and quickly commissioned new bells: larger than the old ones and above all heavier than those of the neighbouring villages. After six months the bells were delivered and, amidst high expectations, installed in the provisionally restored tower.

After only the first chimes it was clear that the old tower was too small and dilapidated for the new bells. This was why a new tower was built in the middle of the village square. From now on nine bells would hang in the belfry, one of which was the fifth largest in the province. During the First World War eight of the bells were smelted, only the small funeral bell still dates from the 18th century.

The tower and the 298 steps were restored in 2007.

The stairs can be climbed when accompanied by a guide on a guided tour.

The community was in debt for decades to pay for the construction of the church tower. For this reason the re-construction of the church could only be thought of much later. The neo-classical building, because of its size is also known as the “mountain cathedral”. It was only finished in the middle of the 19th century. The church is consecrated to the apostles Peter and Paul. Inside the church the story of the martyrdom of both these saints is portrayed in frescoes in the chancel.

the improvement club have more benches arranged on Castelrotto’s square. They almost enclose the square completely and are in great demand by locals and tourists alike as a place to sit in the sun in front of the picturesque backdrop of the houses. Castelrotto’s village square is surrounded by the impressive village hall, the parish church and both historic inns, the hotel “Zum Lamm” and the hotel “Cavallino d’Oro”.

The village hall, built in the 16th century by the Hungarian family Kraus von Sala, has an impressive appearance. The Krauses had come to Castelrotto as provincial administrators and settled »

»

E

verything began with a devastating village fire in the spring of 1753. On this day the story of Castelrotto’s tower began: the landmark and most popular photo motif of the village of Castelrotto. The 82-metrehigh tower is usually the centre of interest of visitors who stand in Castelrotto’s village square for the first time and marvel: “Why does Castelrotto have such a big tower? Why is it on the village square and not next to the church?”

Text: Barbara Pichler Photos: Helmuth Rier

» Castelrotto and its gothic church tower drafted before the fire of 1753

Winter | ALPE 29

One of the Chapels leading to Monte Calvario

Villa Felseck, built in Jugendstil shows its pictures representing the 12 months

30 ALPE | Winter

here. Thus, at the beginning of the 17th century, Jacob Kraus built the manor house Krausegg out of the Saffran and Stueterhof farm. Since 1909, this stately residence has been the property of the municipality and still today expensive cockle stoves and the beautiful Renaissance panelling in the council chamber still bear witness to the wealth of the Krause family.

Colle. The porphyry dome in the centre of the village, accessible via a path through the village hall, is simply called the “Colle” by the citizens of Castelrotto. A local recreation area, a pilgrimage trail, but also an adventure playground for children, the Colle was converted into a Calvary by the Kraus family in the 17th century. Several chapels line the pilgrimage trail and wooden-carved figures illustrate Christ’s ordeal. The destination is the knoll of the Colle. The Calvary trail ends here at the entombment chapel and the Imperial jubilee fountain of 1908, which the then improvement club built on the occasion of the sixtieth anniversary of Emperor Franz Joseph’s reign. The fountain is especially interesting because of the German art nouveau paintings of Eduard Burgauner. The twostoreyed tower with its St. Antonius chapel in the lower storey is a remnant of the medieval castle buildings on the Colle. From afar the Colle is rather inconspicuous; however on closer inspection this proves to be a mistake, because in all probability the settlement history of the village began here.

It is almost certain that the naming of Castelrotto has its origins here. Already in pre-Roman times there was a hill fort on the Colle that was extended into a castle (Kastell) by the Romans. The castle buildings were destroyed with the barbarian migration and the end of the Roman Empire. During the 10th century the name “Castellum ruptum” (broken castle) appears for the first time in written records. The name Castelrotto came from it later.

Every year the popular Oswald von Wolkenstein Riding Tournament takes place on the Colle.

Eduard Burgauner. ”Working and striving is God’s command – work is life, doing nothing is death.” This saying, on the wall of hotel “Al Lupo”, contains the words by which the professional painter Eduard Burgauner lived. Burgauner was born in 1873 in Castelrotto as the son of a baker.

He preferred to devote himself to art rather than learn the baker’s trade. For this reason he went to Munich and Vienna where he got to know the German art nouveau. At the beginning of the 20th century, he returned to his home village. He had made it his business to transform Castelrotto into the most painted village of South Tyrol and in this way to create a complete work of art. First of all he decorated the bakery Burgauner (Via Platten), the house of his birth. St. George with dragon provides the focal point of this composition. However, also St. Florian, the patron saint of fire fighters and St. Honoratius, patron saint of bakers, have to be included here as well. We can find the portrayal of St. Florian on every house painted by Eduard Burgauner; the lurking fear of the danger of fire was too great even after more than a hundred years after the big fire in the heads of the citizens of Castelrotto. Villa Felseck, the house that the painter built for himself very close to the house where he was born, is also in Via Platten. Here the artist displayed all his skill. The interior decoration in modern style is completely influenced by German art nouveau in the figurative portrayals of the twelve months and ages, still very traditional. The wooden gate is something special. It seems to be very modern and nevertheless had already been designed

by Burgauner.

The hotel “Al Lupo” is located on the lower square in the centre of the village. Often tourists are there trying to decipher the inscriptions that indicate what the house, a butcher’s and an inn, has to offer. The portrayals of revellers and a butcher with his patron saint, St. Theodotius, also tell the story in pictures.

Going in a southerly direction, the building “Mendel­haus” can be found in the lane of Hotel Lamm. The garlands of kitchen and household implements are a reference to plumbers and glaziers. This is emphasised with the figure of St. Luke, the patron saint of glaziers. The small putti are portrayed especially lively. The paintings on the “Mendelhaus” are considered to be the high point of Burgauner’s work.

> December 2011

Christmas in Castelrotto For the sixth time, the inhabitants of Castelrotto will unveil the secrets of their Christmas traditions and allow others to participate in them.

Beside the little Christmas market, local farmers’ wives will offer their cookies, Christmas logs, pastries, and other authentic goodies for sale.

On the third weekend, the well-known „Kastelruther Spatzen“ folks music group will present songs and tunes in keeping with the „Feast of Love“.

Appointments December 3 to 5, 2011 December 8 to 11, 2011 December 16 to 18, 2011 December 27 to 29, 2011 www.kastelrutherweihnacht.com

A tour of the village of Castelrotto through its neat centre offers extremely interesting insights and views at any time of the year. «

Winter | ALPE 31

Peter Senoner’s world (of art)

MIGR ANTS

P

ilot” is standing on an ice rink, “Zack” in a clearing and “Stitch” in a large, empty room. Each of the “migrants”, a term coined by Marion Piffer-Damiani for Peter Senoner’s sculptures, appears alone and unfamiliar, also because some are fitted out with accessories such as headphones. They are almost like beings from another world who have been transplanted here to fulfill a mission that is known only to them. They are looking into the distance out of cold, half-closed eyes and, if you manage to establish eye contact, their gaze goes straight through you and loses itself somewhere. It is difficult to penetrate the barrier of rejection and coldness. I ask myself, why I should do that. I try to approach them. I make an effort to come to terms with Peter Senoner’s figures and cherish the illusion to have had some success. What is this success? I don’t know. I can’t define the feeling. I only know that it is the beginning of a longer process. My visit to Peter Senoner’s studio in Laion was full of high expectations. The artist, born in 1969, raised in Castelrotto, graduate of the Academy of Visual Arts in Munich, lead me into a spacious studio in which his partly monumental, figural or amorphous sculptures are produced. Three figures dominate the room. One, larger than life, is leaning against the wall, the little dingo is standing in front of the right-hand wall and the artist is working on the bust on his work bench. There is that same feeling also here again that the room is being dominated by them in a restrained way. I also feel a presence again here, whose effect goes back to a message that is not aimed directly at me, that I perceive but do not understand. Peter Senoner took me to the equally spacious drawing studio.

There are sparingly-coloured sketches in small format and large-sized drawings. The type of portraits Peter Senoner produced mainly show the indicative facial features and eye characteristics of his sculptures. The meeting proceeded in accordance with the same pattern as my contacts with the figures in the sculpture studio. I sat down under the eyes of the portraits to speak to the artist at his work bench. What does art mean for Peter Senoner? His answer is: “The central motive for my artistic activity can be traced back to an inner need, to create and produce something so that a feeling can be expressed and visualised in the shape of a drawing or sculpture.” He expects openness, curiosity and above all discussion from viewers of his works of art. “What interests me first and foremost is what merit my work has and the reactions it provokes. The palette ranges from absolute acceptance to absolute rejection. If anyone gets angry discussing my work it is as important for me as if they react emphatically.” He listens to creative criticism, but he has until now not been dissuaded from his course. With a last very clear statement Peter Senoner let me go on a concluding tour through his studio: “You cannot explain art!”. As I took my leave from the sculptures and drawings, I found that I had come closer to them. Soon I shall pay them and their creator a visit again. «

Monomon (Passo Sella 17.08.2004) Wood, Cryolite glass, Cast aluminium 205 x 200 x 55 cm 2002-04

32 ALPE | Winter

Biography 1969 born in Bolzano 1994-2000 Academy of Visual Arts Munich 2001 Diploma (master student of Prof. Asta Göting) 1998-2000 Living and working in New York 2002-2004 living and working in Tokyo 2006 living and working in Vienna Since 2006 teaching assignment at the Institute for experimental Architecture/Studio 3 of the Faculty for Architecture, University Innsbruck (A) Living and working at Chiusa

Exhibitions (selection)

LEM Bronze casting, Stove-enamelled, Cryolite glass 200 x 50 x 45 cm 2001-06

2002 Das absolute Bekannte Sammlung Falckenberg, Hamburg (D) 2004 Skulptur, Präkerer Realismus zwischen Melancholie und Komik, Kunsthalle Wien, Vienna (A) 2006 Eccentrics, UrsulaBlickle-Stiftung, Kraichtal (D) 2008 Cosmorama, Landesgalerie am Oberösterreichischen Landesmuseum, Linz (A) 2009 NEW ENTRIES !

Museion, Bolzano (I) 2011 Arsenale, Museion, Bolzano (I) Zeichnung, Oechsner Galerie, Nuremberg (D) Figura – Una storia della scultura in Alto Adige, Tirolo e Trentino, dal 1945, Fortress Fortezza (I)

Text: Reinhold Janek Photos: Dario Lasagni, Archiv Peter Senoner

Winter | ALPE 33

Dunplings all the way “round”, as appetizer, main dish or as a sweet delicacy

A round delicacy As long as South Tyrolean farmers catered for themselves, they cooked whatever was available on the farm and altered recipes accordingly.

For this reason the South Tyrolean cuisine also varies according to valley or mountain location. However, there is a speciality throughout the province and that are the “Knödel” (dumplings).

»

Text: Barbara Pichler Photos: Helmuth Rier

34 ALPE | Winter

T

he story of the origins of the dumplings sounds adventurous, but it shows above all that with this dish it is a matter of creative reutilisation of provisions. A farmer’s wife was supposed to put a “satisfying” meal on the table as quickly as possible for a horde of lansquenets. Because of the rush and lack of more ample provisions, she had to improvise. Earlier every household had old, dry bread, even though they only baked a few times in the year. Every farmer’s wife had eggs immediately to hand from happy hens of course, there was milk on a farm also and herbs in the garden of course. If times were good, there would also be some Speck (South Tyrolean cured ham) in the cellar. With these ingredients, the farmer’s wife, whose name is no longer known, conjured up a hearty, nourishing meal for the lansquenets whereupon they soon took their leave satisfied. This is how dumplings came into being.

With feeling. There are probably just as many recipes for dumplings in South Tyrol as there are chefs, because everyone prepares the dumplings, perhaps the most favourite every day dish in South Tyrol, differently. Therefore if you ask a dumpling chef for a recipe you will only get the very vaguest of indications because they cook by intuition. The mixture of the ingredients depends first and foremost on the quality of the bread. If it is very dry, it needs more milk. Also according to provisions more or fewer eggs are used and concerning the addition of flour, each chef has their own opinion.

Earlier there were only Speck, fasting and buckwheat polenta dumplings; today there are virtually no limits to the chefs’ imagination. The recipes are ever more numerous and outlandish.

The most diverse ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, herbs and mushrooms are mixed in the ground mass of dry bread. Dumplings are becoming ever more popular as puddings.

Plum and apricot dumplings made from potato dough, or, if it has to be made quickly, from curd dough. Connoisseurs of the South Tyrolean puddings should not forego curd dumplings with their fine filling of nougat, one of the more recent creations.

Dumplings can be eaten as a starter with salad or Parmesan cheese and melted butter, or with soup, with Speck and liver dumplings as the most popular, or also as a tasty main dish to goulash or roast.

On no account should dumplings be cut with a knife. That is an insult to the chef. She might think that her dumplings are so hard that they cannot be separated with a fork. Small children in South Tyrol already know that. A dumpling must on no account be so hard that “you could batter someone to death with it”.

Incidentally: This year’s best “dumpling maker” of South Tyrol lives in Castelrotto. The gastronome Martin Aichner of Pasta & More succeeded in rolling 29 perfect dumplings in only three minutes at the dumpling competition in Vipiteno. A round record. «

Winter | ALPE 35

Spinach Dumpling Ingredience 300 g stale white bread 1/8-1/4 l lukewarm milk 800 g spinach (nettles can also be used) 30 g butter 1 clove of garlic 1 small onion 2 eggs salt and pepper nutmeg 1 table spoon of flour 2 table spoons of breadcrumbs 80 g butter 4 table spoons of grated Parmesan cheese

Preparation Cut the bread into small cubes; moisten it with milk as needed.

Wash the spinach very well, boil it in salt water, strain it and squash it thoroughly. Melt the butter, add a clove of garlic and sautĂŠ with finely cut onion, add spinach and braise for five minutes. Add eggs and spinach to the bread and mix well, season with salt, pepper and a pinch of nutmeg, add flour and breadcrumbs. Shape into small dumplings and simmer in salt water for about 15 minutes. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and pour melted butter over it. This quantity will amount to twelve dumplings.

Recipe: Kastelruther Bauernbuffet

36 ALPE | Winter

SANNI.it

JÄGERSTUBE In Seiser Alm Urthaler modern design and traditional cosy snugs create a unique symbiosis. ‚When ten years ago we built the Seiser Alm Urthaler, the first designer hotel in the Alps to be made from wood, we did not want to relinquish authentic South Tyrol cosiness‘ says Nina Urthaler with regard to how the ‚Jägerstube‘ came about. Typical Swiss stone pine walls, huge tables and chairs and even a ‚family shrine‘ were not to be left out. Superb South Tyrol specialities, in keeping with Slow Food criteria, expertly cooked with a pinch of international distinctiveness.

In the Urthaler you wander between realms, from a convivial gettogether in the traditional snug to a relaxed digestif at the exclusive Onyx Bar. A feeling of South Tyrol - quite simply special.

Skiing & Gourmet delights A South Tyrol snug is a cosy meeting place for bon vivants.

Head chef Marco Knepper selects the best ingredients for you and magics up exquisite recipe ideas.

Simple and light, exquisite and unique, from South Tyrol and international.

All meals are prepared according to the season using fresh produce.

We are happy to advise you on selecting some wines to match your meal from our Ciulé wine cellar.

Lunch is served from 12:30 p.m. and evening meals from 7:00 p.m.

Table reservation requested.

SEISER ALM URTHALER***** Alpe di Siusi – Alto Adige T +39 0471 727 919

www.seiseralm.com

Photo: André Bechtold

Winter Preview ’11/12

> December 2011

> December 11, 2011

> Winter 2011/12

> December 30, 2011

Christmas in Castelrotto

Highspeed Race

Winter Spirits at Castle Prösels

Ski race Fan & Fun with Denise Karbon and Peter Fill

Castle Prösels is a majestic, extremely well-preserved castle located in the hamlet of Presule in the vicinity of Fiè allo Sciliar.

In the wintertime, too, you can visit it and participate in a guided tour through impressive armories, and up breathtaking spiral staircases. The tour ends in the “Knight’s Hall”, with musical entertainment and a selection of delicious South Tyrolean specialties.

The traditional fan club race is a contest and fun-filled event all rolled into one. Ski fans meet on the Alpe di Siusi to measure their skills. Denise Karbon and Peter Fill will be there, too. www.denisekarbon.it www.peterfill.it

(Read more on page 31) > December 10, 2011

Krampus Run in Castelrotto “Krampus”- who are them and what are they doing in Castelrotto?

The Krampus is a mythical creature recognized in alpine countries.

According to legend, the Krampus accompanies St. Nicholas during the Christmas season, warning and punishing bad children, in contrast to St. Nicholas, who gives gifts to good children. On December 10, 2011 some Krampus’ teams from Italy, Germany and Austria will walk through the streets of Castelrotto, wearing hand-crafted masks and dresses and ringing bells.

38 ALPE | Winter

Europe‘s largest plateau opens the ski season 2011/2012 with its legendary Highspeed race: the whole family is invited to watch and participate. Challenger is Kristian Ghedina, winner of 13 World Cup races. All the Highspeed Race teams – consisting of four people with at least one woman – compete on the 230m speed slope Punta d’Oro. A special price awaits the winning team. > December 25, 2011

King Laurin Snowpark Opening King Laurin Snowpark Opening Perfectly planned and shaped for the winter season, the King Laurin Snowpark offers loads of different obstacles to rib on. All structures have a new look and there are even some new rails and boxes. Join in for food, drinks, and good music. www.kinglaurinpark.it

Appointments December 27, 2011 January 4, 2012 February 20, 2012 www.schloss-proesels.it

> January 12 to 22, 2012

Traditional “Hoazetkuchl” Authentic South Tyrolean „Knödel“ (dumplings) and calf’s liver, goulash soup and rye bread, sweet „Muas“ (applesauce) and holiday pastries are just a few of the authentic Tyrolean country dishes from which to choose during the traditional „Hoazetkuchl“.

Photo: Michael Reusse

> January 22-29, 2012

> February 7, 2012

> March 10, 2012

> March 11, 2012

Swing on Snow

South Tyrol Moonlight Classic Alpe di Siusi

Red Bull Jib Ski Kings

The “Blue Ribbon” Race of the Alpe di Siusi

Eight days of music on the Alpe di Siusi, the huts and in the villages at the foot of the Sciliar mountain, sweet melodies and dynamic rhythms, groups from the entire Alpine region, and above all a great atmosphere: this is Swing on Snow 2012. For the seventh year in a row the Alpe di Siusi WinterMusicFestival offers a mix of traditional folk music with jazz, soul, pop and classical music. www.swingonsnow.com (Read more on pages 4-8) > January 22, 2012

Winter golf tournment Play golf on snow and enjoy a wonderful winter landscape: for the 4th time in a raw, the winter golf tournament is held on the Alpe di Siusi. It is played over 9 holes, from 61 to 1150 m long. On skiers, snowboard or on sledge the participants go from hole to hole. The fairways are white instead of green, the greens whites and the golf balls stand out thanks to their bright colours. Food and music along the golf course will be provided. www.golfkastelruth.it

(Read more on page 23) > February 18 and 19, 2012

Subject Schlern 10 In 2012, the Subject Schlern in the King Laurin Snowpark celebrates its 10th anniversary. The Subject Schlern is one of the most prestigious snowboard contests in Northern Italy. With its competition character and its prize money the contest attracts riders from all over Italy, Austria and Switzerland. In the focus is the best rotation in so far 5 categories (180°, 360°, 540°, 720° and 900°) on the kickers of the pro line. On the occasion of this year’s anniversary the contest raises the challenge with a 1080° rotation. On both contest days the Panettone Bros. provide food and music and in the evening a fancy party keeps on going until the early morning hours. www.kinglaurinpark.it

The king of jibing on stage at Red Bull Jib Ski Kings: this unique event will rock the world of freeskiing and see pros and amateurs competing against each other on the Alpe di Siusi.

In contrast to a usual freeski contest the Red Bull Jib Ski Kings will not take place within a park but on a normal ski slope. The contest is all about the most “natural” dimension of this discipline which will stimulate the rider’s creativity such as the irregularities of the soil, slope changes and natural rails. www.kinglaurinpark.it

In 1953, more than 250 people participated in this traditional race, which was thus the number-one sports event of the entire region. The idea is original – an Alpine combination of downhill skiing and slalom – and it attracts even those ski sportsmen with less competitive experience. The fastest skier in each category will be awarded a “Blue Ribbon Trophy” like the ones awarded to the luxury ocean liners which could cross the Atlantic the fastest. www.dasblaueband.it > March 25, 2012

Raiffeisen Ski King A “Big Air Style contest”, that’s what the Raiffeisen Ski King 2012 is all about. Exclusively for this freeski event two kickers with 20m table will be realized in the pro line of King Laurin Snowpark. A very special event: big air, style, BBQ, music … and lots of fun. www.kinglaurinpark.it

Winter | ALPE 39

Summer Preview ’12

> June 8 to 9, 2012

> June , 2012

> Summer 2012

> July, 2012

Big Open-Air Concert of the Kastelruther Spatzen

Natural Food in Fiè allo Sciliar

Summer for families

World-best marathoners’ training camp

For the sixteenth time the famous folk music group from Castelrotto, the “Kastelruther Spatzen”, invites to the Open Air on home soil. But even after all these years, the fascination of the concert is unbroken: many thousands of fans will arrive in Castelrotto this weekend in June to enjoy the breathtaking landscape and to experience the „Spatzen“ live.

A special experience for all huge fans.

For years now, the cooks of Fiè have been peparing especially light and appetizing dishes in anticipation of the coming summer. Because in early-summer, the gardens are full of sweet, juicy, and hearty fruits and vegetables, and the desire for natural and unadulterated foods of course increases. The culinary month of June in Fiè allo Sciliar offers a tempting array of tasty, natural dishes skillfully prepared and cheerfully served. A secret tip not only for health-conscious gourmets.

Summer time is family time – the Alpe di Siusi will become a paradise for children: together with witch Martha children and parents will follow the footsteps of witches and wizards. Those of you who would like to discover what life is like on a farmstead can experience nature and agriculture close-up.

In July, the world‘s best marathon runners will be coming once more to Europe‘s largest mountain pasture.

The optimal altitude from 1.800 to 2.300 m leads the elite runners from Kenya, for the sixth time in a row, to the Alpe di Siusi. With two training sessions a day the runners prepare for the match season.

For everyone who wants to run side by side with the Kenyan stars there is the Alpe di Siusi Running on July 22, 2012. All amateurs are invited to lace the running shoes and to measure themselves with the marathon runners over 12,7km.

> June 1 to 3, 2012

30th Oswald von Wolkenstein Riding Tournament Galloping into the Middle Ages: the first weekend of June, the villages surrounding the Alpe di Siusi are dedicated to the biggest horseback riding festival in South Tyrol. A total of 36 teams face the challenging competition games of the Oswald von Wolkenstein Riding Tournament.

The traditional riding spectacle starts with celebrations in Siusi allo Sciliar. On Sunday, the audience draws on foot or by shuttle buses together with the riders from race to race. At the close of the tournament, there will be an awards ceremony at Castle Prösels, with a subsequent festive celebration quite in keeping with medieval traditions. www.ovwritt.com

40 ALPE | Winter

>

Photos: Helmurth Rier

> Summer 2012

> Summer 2012

> October 1 to 31, 2012

>October 12 to 14, 2012

Summer Classics in Siusi allo Sciliar

Summer at Castle Prösels

The „Kuchlkastl“ – Culinary Festival in Fiè allo Sciliar

“Kastelruther Spatzen” Music Festival in Castelrotto

For lovers of classical music, Siusi offers an extraordinary series of concerts. Artists (primarily from Italy, but with international experience) will perform the works of great composers. The „Summer Classics“ of Siusi represent a high level of musical talent and have long since become an integral component of our summer cultural program. Both locals and visitors will be enchanted.

In summer 2011, everybody will again be able to attend elegant evening concerts and thrilling matinees at Castel Prösels. The high-quality repertoire of the performing musicians and singers extends from the ethereal realms of classical music, to earthy brass band music, all the way to the finest jazz. And whoever can’t attend the events can still participate in guided tours and view the historical castle from the inside. www.schloss-proesels.it

The „Kuchlkastl“ Culinary Festival in Fiè allo Sciliar is a well-kept secret among gourmets and friends of „down home“ cooking, alike. Since 1978, the innkeepers and restaurant owners in Fiè have been inviting visitors to partake in the „Gastronomical October“. At the close of the season, the best chef cooks of Fiè will do their utmost to astonish and enchant you with new variations of traditional dishes – dishes prepared wit passion and enjoyed with fine appreciation. If you are in search of original dishes (based on time-honoured recipes, but with a modern accent), you ought not to miss this month-long culinary festival in Fiè allo Sciliar. www.voelserkuchlkastl.com

Three days of celebrating, spending pleasant evenings together, experiencing the “Kastelruther Spatzen” live: the Spatzen-Festival in Castelrotto is a must for every fan. Surrounded by the unique scenery of the Dolomites the seven “Spatzen“ enchant all friends of traditional music. www.kastelruther-spatzen.de

Winter | ALPE 41

Around & About

Ferrari FF photo shooting on snow. The photo shooting for the FF, the Ferrari Four XOP57902, was partly made on the Alpe di Siusi. In January 2011, the crew came to the Alpe di Siusi to take pictures of the red cult coupe in the winter landscape. In front of the impressive backdrop of the Sasso Lungo Group the red Ferrari Four shines in the winter sun. The picture is published in the FF series catalogue which is distributed worldwide.

Alpe di Siusi Winter Photo Competition “Alpe di Siusi Winter – our holiday region from your perspective”: that’s the theme of the photo competition open to amateur and professional photographers. We’re searching for the most beautiful, most extraordinary, or simply the best winter shot. The competition starts on December 3, 2011 and ends on April 15, 2012. More information at www.alpedisiusi.info.

1st Award: A week-end for two at the farm Kompatscher Hof with traditional breakfast 2nd Award: Guided excursion with Arc Alpin and wellness treatment at Hotel Heubad 3rd Award: Dinner for two at Vitalpina Wanderhotel Icaro

Viktor Röthlin on the Alpe di Siusi

On July 30, 1911 the well-known trail leading from the Alpe di Siusi to Passo Sella was inaugurated. The trail is named after the last King of Saxony, Friedrich August III. On the occasion of the 100th anniversary three panels inform about trail characteristics and anecdotes about the King of Saxony.

European champion and fastest white marathon runner at the Olympic Games in Beijing 2008, Viktor Röthlin, came to the Alpe di Siusi for training. From July 1 to 22, 2011, he was preparing for the upcoming autumn marathons, together with the marathon stars from Kenya. It was Röthlin’s second training camp on Europe’s largest mountain pasture.

Photo: Pierluigi Benini

100 years Friedrich Augustu Path

IMPRINT. ALPE: Reg. Court Bolzano / Bolzano, n. 9/2002 R.St. Published by: Alpe di Siusi Marketing. Responsible Editor: Hubert Unterweger.

Editorial Team: Elisabeth Augustin, Michaela Baur, André Bechtold, Rosa Maria Erlacher, Barbara Pichler-Rier. Advertising: Sabine Demetz, Christoph Trocker.

Translations: Studio Bonetti & Peroni, Daniela Perucatti. Graphicdesign: Komma Graphik. Printing: Litopat, Verona. Circulation: 50.000

42 ALPE | Winter

Fre pro sh duc ts fro

mo loca ur farm l ers

The new supermarket Coop in the heart of Castelrotto offers you a wide range of first quality products.

In the specialities‘ corner you will find unique culinary delights from local farmers, from biological origin and from fair trade. At the selling desk there is the famous butcher Heinz of the renowned Butcher Shop Silbernagl offering you typical Speck from Castelrotto and Helga, the soul of the Bakery and Confectionery Shop Burgauner, who will contribute with the “Schüttelbrot”. Why don‘t you come around?

Food - Butcher - Bakery - Confectionery Hardware - Gardening - Agriculture articles

Burgauner BAKERY · CONFECTIONERY

butcher’s silbernagl

MARKT

Famiglia Cooperativa Castelrotto Via Panider, 24 · Phone +39 0471 706 330 · www.konsummarkt.com Opening hours: From Monday to Saturday from 07.30 to 12.30 a.m. and from 3.00 to 7.00 p.m. (closed on saturday afternoon when out of season)

KOMMA | Foto: SAM©Laurin Moser

without auto-mobile

Affordably and conveniently through the winter wonderland

Herr Rüdig er Hoffman

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Senior - 72, 00 Euro Carta Nume ro: 003770 18.12.2011 - 9:06 Uhr

With the Combi Card or the Nordic Pass Combicard20

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Combi Card 3 in 7

38,00 Euro

Combi Card 7

48,00 Euro

Combi Card 14

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In the course of 7 days (after first use)

Valid for 7 days (after first use)

Valid for 14 days (after first use)

> 3 times to the Alpe di Siusi and back, with the Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway or the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) > Unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service around the Alpe di Siusi (Shuttle Buses, Almbus and Public Transport Buses) and the Nightliner > Unrestricted use of the Public Transport Services “Mobilcard Südtirol/Alto Adige”

> Unrestricted use of Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway or the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) > Unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service around the Alpe di Siusi (Shuttle Buses, Almbus and Public Transport Buses) and the Nightliner > Unrestricted use of the Public Transport Services “Mobilcard Südtirol/Alto Adige”

> Unrestricted use of Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway or the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) > Unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service around the Alpe di Siusi (Shuttle Buses, Almbus and Public Transport Buses) and the Nightliner > Unrestricted use of the Public Transport Services “Mobilcard Südtirol/Alto Adige”

Nordic Pass 3 in 7

Nordic Pass 7

Nordic Pass 14

43,00 Euro

57,00 Euro

90,00 Euro

In the course of 7 days (after first use)

Valid for 7 days (after first use)

Valid for 14 days (after first use)

> 3 days Fee for using the Cross-Country Ski Courses Alpe di Siusi / Val Gardena > 3 days unrestricted use of Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway or the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) > Unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service around the Alpe di Siusi (Shuttle Buses, Almbus and Public Transport Buses) and the Nightliner > Unrestricted use of the Public Transport Services “Mobilcard Südtirol/Alto Adige”

> 7 days Fee for using the Cross-Country Ski Courses Alpe di Siusi / Val Gardena > Unrestricted use of Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway or the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) > Unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service around the Alpe di Siusi (Shuttle Buses, Almbus and Public Transport Buses) and the Nightliner > Unrestricted use of the Public Transport Services “Mobilcard Südtirol/Alto Adige”

> 14 days Fee for using the Cross-Country Ski Courses Alpe di Siusi / Val Gardena > Unrestricted use of Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway or the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) > Unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service around the Alpe di Siusi (Shuttle Buses, Almbus and Public Transport Buses) and the Nightliner > Unrestricted use of the Public Transport Services “Mobilcard Südtirol/Alto Adige”

The Combi Card and the Nordic Pass are untransferable! Children (0-5 years) and persons on wheelchairs ride free of charge (Combi Card).

Juniors (6-13 years) pay only half fare for Combi Card and Nordic Pass.

The Combi Card and the Nordic Pass are available at all cash desks of cableway Alpe di Siusi, by Tourist Information offices and at your accommodation.

Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway 39040 Siusi allo Sciliar · Via Sciliar, 39 Tel. 0471 704 270 · Fax 0471 704 269 www.cabinoviasiusi.it · info@cabinoviasiusi.it