Travel Guide Bregenzerwald - Winter 2015-16

travel guide

wi nter 2015/16 Ideas and Addresses.

Your guide through the Bregenzerwald.

winter 2015|16 № 13

reisemagazin

winter 2015/16

Ausgabe 13 10 | € 5,50 | www.bregenzerwald.at

reisemagazin bregenzerwald

n

Schwarze Pisten In der Sennerei Seelenwanderung Naturkosmetik Neue Blicke auf die Dörfer Besondere Ferienhäuser Kochen als Kunst betrachtet

13.07.15 17:41

On around 60 pages (in German only), the Bregenzerwald travel magazine provides information in the form of edited stories and reports. Regional and international authors report on people in and from the Bregenzerwald and about those things which give them pleasure and joy. Available from Bregenzerwald Tourismus and in the tourist offices in the Bregenzerwald.

Can also be read online at: www.bregenzerwald.at/uk

16.07.2015 13:42:40

Published by:

Photo credits:

Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH,

Monika Albrecht (p. 33)

Impulszentrum 1135, 6863 Egg

Au-Schoppernau Tourismus (p. 6/53) Rudolf Berchtel (p. 62/64)

Design by:

Ludwig Berchtold (p. 16/58/60/72/91/92/100)

broger grafik, Andelsbuch

Adolf Bereuter (Titel, p. 10/30/50/63/70/78/ 80/81/88/96/99)

Text by:

Baschnegger Ammann / Adolf Bereuter (p. 90)

Kinz Kommunikation

Christa Branz (p. 52)

Florian Aicher (p. 6–7, 76–77, 78–79, 82–83)

Hubert Cernenschek (p. 62)

Kurt Bracharz (p. 88–89)

Damüls Faschina Tourismus (p. 2/65) Thomas Gretler (p. 47)

Carthography:

Hotel Hirschen Schwarzenberg (p. 85)

Aries Werbegrafik-Design

Hittisau Tourismus (p. 59)

© State of Vorarlberg for geographic information

Alex Kaiser (p. 20)

system data

Hotel Krone, Au (p. 98)

Text and planning of hiking routes: Dr Rudolf Berchtel

Marc Van Landeghem (p. 71) Christoph Lingg (p. 76/86/93)

Dates and prices subject to change. Typographical

Peter Löwy (p. 82)

errors cannot be excluded. Issue: August 2015

Peter Mathis (p. 84) Alois Metzler (p. 61) Mathias Moosbrugger (p. 74) Roswitha Natter (p. 94) Helmut Tiefenthaler (p. 56/57/66) Dietmar Walser www.walser-image.com (p. 12) Warth-Schröcken Tourismus (p. 67) Ligia González (drawings p. 81)

Printed by our reliable, regional partner: Druckhaus Gössler, Bezau

contents

land & lives...................................... 2 The Bregenzerwald 2 For your orientation 4 Living space 6 Snow levels 8 ski & board....................................... 9 3-valley ski pass 10 Diedamskopf Au-Schoppernau 12 Damüls-Mellau-Faschina 16 Warth-Schröcken SkiArlberg 20 Alberschwende 24 Bödele-Schwarzenberg 25 Egg-Schetteregg 26 Hochhäderich Hittisau-Riefensberg 27 Niedere Andelsbuch-Bezau 28 Hochlitten Riefensberg 29 Ski! Project 30 ski & freedom................................ 31 Map of the area 32 Interesting information 33 Skiing tours 34 Variation skiing 36 xc skiing......................................... 37 Au-Schoppernau 38 Bezau-Bizau-Reuthe 39 Damüls 40 Hittisau 41 Mellau-Schnepfau 42 Riefensberg-Hochhäderich 43 Schwarzenberg 44 Sibratsgfäll 45 Sulzberg 46 Nordic Sport Park Sulzberg 47 Warth-Schröcken 48

family tips...................................... 49 Kids’ programme 50 Day trip tips 54 active winter................................. 55 Winter hiking 56 Snow-shoe hikes 67 Horse and carriage rides 70 Arctic experiences 71 Tobogganing 72 Paragliding 74 culture........................................... 75 Everyday culture 76 Building Culture 78 Umgang Bregenzerwald 80 Werkraum Bregenzerwald 82 Cabaret & village culture 84 Culture in hotels and pubs 85 Exhibitions & museums 86 dining out...................................... 87 KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald 88 Culinary winter hikes in the Bregenzerwald 90 Exceptional specialties 92 Dairy farming up close 94 well-being ..................................... 95 Health hotels 96 Wellness hotels 97 Natural products 99 Vorarlberg 100 How to reach Vorarlberg, public buses and taxis 101

1

2

the bregenzerwald

The Bregenzerwald is a winter region for the sensitive. Lively and ­spirited yet peaceful and tranquil at the same time, sure of itself and firmly rooted in a pleasantly perceptible way. It is part of the identity of the ­Bregenzerwald locals to offer good quality and well thought-out ideas.

Life and living 30,000 people live in the Bregenzer­ wald, in 22 villages in total. The Bregenzerwald locals have always made sure that their living space is carefully designed. This applies to themselves as well as to their guests.

The villages are strikingly attractive.

The exciting combination of old and modern wooden architecture takes you by surprise. The mountains have been moderately developed. The accommodation and food are of high quality. In the well-tended inns and restaurants, the chefs are ­masters of pepping up regional specialities, making them into magnificent creations. Most of the produce used comes from local farms. Even during the winter months, the village dairy farms along the KäseStrasse Bregenzer­wald demonstrate how milk is made into cheese. Events and tasting sessions are features on the cheese culture agenda. Exhibitions and concerts allow you an insight into the cultural goings-on.

the bregenzerwald

3 land & lives ski & board culture dining out

Read on to discover the special ­qualities of the Bregenzerwald as well as ideas for your sporty, enjoyable and cultural activities.

active winter

Practical: the distances between the skiing areas are short. The 3-valley ski pass links all skiing areas. It is also valid on the ski buses.

The wellness hotels offer baths, ­massages and all sorts of pampering treatments, including for day visitors.

family tips

Ski tourers and those variation ­ skiers who like to leave their tracks on the unprepared slopes also ­benefit from the great deal of snow.

Conditions in the Bregenzerwald are great for both groups of people. Ski schools offer appropriate courses, and package deals can be booked at Bregenzerwald Tourismus.

Hiking and more There are plenty activities for those whose winter enjoyment is found away from the piste. Winter hiking paths guide you through picturesque landscapes to lovely viewpoints.

Cross-country ski runs follow rivers, penetrate woods and take you across white plateaux. If you prefer, you can hike through the wintery valleys on snow shoes. There are toboggan runs aplenty. There is a diverse, ­varied range of programmes on offer for families with children.

xc skiing

Skiing and boarding Most visitors to the Bregenzerwald during winter come for the great ­skiing. Choose between skiing areas more appropriate for the athletic or for family fun. Top conditions reign: thanks to the great location on the northern edge of the Alps, the Bregenzerwald enjoys above-average snowfall.

ski & freedom

View from the Damüls skiing area to the mountains of southern Vorarlberg

well-being

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for your orientation

Kar

Widderstein

241

2533 m

A

l

l

g

ä

u

e

r

A

l

p

e

Lechtal Innsbruck Reutte

n

WARTH 1495 m

Hoher Ifen 2230 m

Diedamskopf 2090 m

Hochtannberg 1676 m

SCHR 12

SCHOPPERNAU 860 m

Schönenbach 1025 m Hirschberg 1834 m

AU 800 m Damüls

Winterstaude 1877 m

SIBRATSGFÄLL 929 m

Niedere 1711 m

Baumgarten 1620 m

Balderschwang (D)

So Hochhäderich 1566 m

SCHETTEREGG 1066 m

HITTISAU 790 m Kojen 1300 m

Hochlitten 971 m

RIEFENSBERG 781 m Aach (D)

ANDELSBUCH 613 m GROSSDORF 662 m LINGENAU 687 m

KRUMBACH 733 m

EGG 564 m MÜSELBACH 585 m

Tannerberg

Dress

LANGENEGG 695 m DOREN 709 m

SULZBERG 1015 m

Oberstaufen (D) Oberreute (D) Buch 725 m Hirschberg Thal 598 m

1095 m

LANGEN 657 m

Pfänder 1062 m

F 73

Scheidegg

Hohenweiler

BR

Lindau Friedrichshafen München Ulm Stuttgart (D)

Lochau

B

o

d

for your orientation

16 m

2403 m

Braunarlspitze

LECH

Saloberkopf

Glatthorn

Zafernhorn

2134m

2107 m

2649 m

Hochkünzelspitze 2397 m

Ski Arlberg

Portlahorn 2010 m

Faschina 1486 m

Uga

1850 m

2095 m

2006 m

Ragazer Blanken

DAMÜLS 1431 m

Mittagspitze

Hohe Wacht

2051 m

Au

Kanisfluh 2044 m

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Körbersee

RÖCKEN 260 m

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Zitterklapfen

rhorn

5

Hochblanken 2068 m

ski & freedom

Wildgunten 1705 m

Rossstelle 1391 m

SCHNEPFAU 734 m

Hoher Freschen 2004 m

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BIZAU 681 m

MELLAU 688 m

onderdach 1208 m

REUTHE 650 m Hochälpelekopf

BEZAU 650 m

H

Staufen 1465 m

BÖDELE 1139 m

SCHWARZENBERG 700 m

slerberg

Karren 976 m

DORNBIRN 475 m

Kennelbach

REGENZ

Dornbirn/Nord Bregenzerwald

Dornbirn Süd Feldkirch Basel (CH) Zürich (CH) St. Gallen (CH)

LAUTERACH

400 m

Bre gen zer ac he

s

e

e

St. Gallen (CH)

ein

Rh

HÖCHST

dining out

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SCHWARZACH 438 m

WOLFURT 412 m

culture

Pfändertunnel

e

Achrain Tunnel

Bildstein 760 m

Fluh 30 m

active winter

ALBERSCHWENDE 721 m

family tips

Brüggelekopf 1182 m

1463 m

BERSBUCH 612 m

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6

living space

Travelling the Bregenzerwald always means having to overcome dizzy heights to start with: from Bregenz you take the Pfänder, from the Rhine Valley the valley side which ascends 500 m, from the north you take the Sulzbergstock, from the east the Riedberg or Hochtannberg pass, from the south the Furkajoch or Faschinajoch.

spectrum which, right at the start of tourism, had travellers extolling the “charming landscape” as an “enclosed park” whilst at the same time shuddering at the “Siberian exile” on the wild, upper course of the Ache. A valley area of contrasts, borders, crossings.

Crossings Cross-border experiences also leave Up and over is the way to go – the most their mark on the locals – they know how to set themselves apart from outimpressive views are from the north side. Yet the scarce rural areas have and the west – and a space is revealed which, in all its diversity, is completely never been sufficient to feed the population. The locals had to get movdifferent to all that surrounds it, with ing, cross borders, leave behind their the Bregenzerache uniting it all. Your homes and families. This took on route takes you through gorges and many different forms: the nomadic flat hollows – wide between the hills existence of alpine animal ­husbandry of the foothills of the Alps around Alberschwende and ­Lingenau, narrow (home, mountain pasture, alp → between the mountains of the foothills page 88), or in the form of seasonal migrant work outbound commuting of the Alps around Andelsbuch and Bezau, squeezed in between the alpine or even emigration (to America in the 19th century in particular). Flexibility, peaks of the Kanisfluh, Diedams­ ideas and self-help were essential to kopf, Zitterklapfen and ­Widderstein stave off poverty. around Schnepfau, Au, Schoppernau, The area was only sparsely populated Warth and Schröcken. This correlates for a long time: only plot names give with the division into the Vorderrise to assumptions about the border wald, ­Mittelwald and Hinterwald between Celtic and Rhaeto-Romanic (front, central and rear regions of the cultures. It was not until the High ­Bregenzerwald) – a topographical

living space

7 land & lives ski & board active winter culture dining out well-being

This culture has succeeded in maintaining its vitality. Innovation and flexibility based on the acquired continue today in initiatives such as the Werkraum (→ page 82) and have turned the Bregenzerwald into a model European region.

family tips

Hard cheese and lace It was during this time that the region developed in the form you see today.

Rational, mercantile methods gained importance in agriculture, desertedness became characteristic of the Vorderwald to the Mittelwald, production of hard cheese grew (alpine dairy → page 76) to such a sustainable extent that the first dairy farm

school in the Habsburg Empire was established. The new rulers were the cheese barons who amassed staggering wealth with the products of the new form of agriculture, and textile manufacturers who supplied material produced by the textiles home industry (decoration and taste → page 77) before the railway provided factories in the Rhine valley with workers after 1902. Such changes were also accompanied by resistance – Franz Michael Felder, author and spokesman of the revolt, is still considered an exceptional character (Franz Michael Felder Museum → page 86) in the valley today, and which is why one’s own house and home are tenaciously clung to. New sources of income have to be continuously developed – the multitude of manual skills is proof of this.

xc skiing

Middle Ages that Mehrerau Monastery in Bregenz encouraged the population of the area upwards of the Bregenzerache. From above, coming the opposite direction, you come across a second wave of population with the Walsers. The particle “Wald” (forest, wood) found in many of the names of places makes it clear how undeveloped this settlement area was for a long time. Naturally, the locals gladly take advantage of this remoteness: interesting as a hunting ground at best for the feudal rulers, extensive autonomy was allowed to develop which went down in literature as a “peasants’ republic”. It ended with the brief Bavarian occupation (1806 – 1814) as a result of the realignment of Europe by Napoleon.

ski & freedom

Au and the Kanisfluh

8

snow levels

175.1

179.8

170.7

156.8

97.5

91.5

16.9

October

November

December

January

February

March

April

Amounts of new snow expressed in cm (snow measured in Schröcken – 1,263 m above sea level – by the Central Institution for Meteorology and Geodynamics: www.zamg.ac.at)

What makes winter into winter?

Snow, of course! Thanks to its location on the northern edge of the Alps, an above-average amount of snow falls in the Bregenzerwald.

With ­precipitation ­amounting to 2,000 mm per year (up to 3,000 mm at higher altitudes), the ­Bregenzerwald is one of the ­highest-precipitation regions in ­Austria (­average 900 mm).

Info: For the latest snow reports, please see: www.bregenzerwald.at/uk

Damüls, a village at an altitude of 1,400 m, even bears the title “the world’s village most assured of snow”. During his ­investigations in 2005, a journalist from ­Nuremberg discovered that, thanks to their exposed backwater position, the ­villages along the northern Alps break records in their annual amounts of new snow. He then ­compared the measurements with those of recognised weather stations from the past five years. The result?

Per winter, almost 10 m of new snow falls in Damüls, which earned the village the title “the permanently inhabited village most assured of snow in the world”.

In 2008 the ­British “Daily Mail”, in turn, honoured Warth-Schröcken with the title “Europe’s skiing area most assured of snow”. The snow readings from a whole century formed the basis of this assessment.

The average amount of new snow in Warth-Schröcken exceeds 11 metres per winter.

9 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing active winter

The Bregenzerwald’s skiing areas have pistes for all tastes and all levels, the most ­ up-to-date lifts, cosy mountain inns and lovely lookout points. Put simply: a joy for skiers and snowboarders!

family tips

ski & board

culture dining out well-being

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3-valley ski pass

In the Warth-Schröcken skiing area

The 3-valley ski pass is valid for 29 ­skiing areas in the Bregenzerwald, in the Große Walsertal, in the Lechtal, in Balderschwang (in Allgäu) and on the ski buses. You can choose from ski passes for between 2.5 and 21 days, special passes for between 2, 5 and 8 days and season passes.

These prices are valid for all those who produce a Guest Card from any town or village in the Bregenzerwald.

Anyone not possessing such a Guest Card pays an additional € 4 per ski pass.

Should the high and low seasons overlap, a mixed price is calculated.

It is possible to extend a 3-valley pass valid for at least 2.5 days by one day.

Group tariffs apply from 18 people.

Advance sales possible from 3 p.m. on the day before from the cable cars and from the information centre of Bregenzerwald Tourismus in Egg. All prices include smart card (except season tickets), are in euro and include VAT at 10%.

Season dates low season Start of the season until 18 December 2015 10 until 22 January 2016 6 until 18 March 2016 3 April until the end of the season high season 19 December 2015 until 9 January 2016 23 January until 5 March 2016 19 March until 2 April 2016 Age limits Seniors, born in 1951 and older Youths, born in 1997 – 1999 Kids, born in 2000 – 2009 Snowman, born in 2010 or later Ski buses included To go skiing, holders of the 3-valley ski pass can use the public buses to reach the skiing area of their choice.

In addition, ski buses which can also be used free of charge operate in numerous villages.

an Sn

ow

m

n re i ld Ch

s th Yo u

on Ad Lo ul w ts se as on Pe ns io ne rs

A H dul ig ts h se as

e tim ay s/

11 land & lives

D

3-valley ski pass

active winter culture dining out

information 3-Täler-Infocenter Impulszentrum 1135 6863 Egg, Vorarlberg T +43 (0)5512 2365-30 info@3taeler.at www.3taeler.at

family tips well-being

Facts and figures Bregenzerwald skiing region 15 skiing areas 90 lifts, comprising 1 large cable car 4 cable cars 32 chair lifts 53 ski tows and practice lifts 259 km of prepared pistes, comprising 98 km of blue pistes 128 km of red pistes 33 km of black pistes

xc skiing

*AD = additional day immediately following the ski pass from 2.5 days **Choose between 2x1 day, 5x1 day and 8x1 day: valid for 2 or 5/8 days within an entire winter season Ski pass prices are valid upon presentation of a Guest Card: otherwise, a surcharge of â‚Ź 4 per ski pass applies.

ski & freedom

Should the high and low seasons overlap, a mixed price is automatically calculated!

*AD 44 42 42 39 23 3.50 2x1 day** 93 - 89 83 47 7 5x1 day** 216 - 206 191 108 8x1 day** 313 - 298 276 157 -

ski & board

2.5 (from 11.30) 113 108 108 100 57 10 3 128 122 122 113 64 11 4 157 150 150 139 79 13 5 187 178 178 165 94 15 6 216 206 206 191 108 17 7 242 230 230 213 121 19 8 267 254 254 235 134 21 9 291 277 277 257 146 23 10 313 298 298 276 157 25 11 334 318 318 294 167 27 12 353 336 336 311 177 29 13 372 354 354 328 186 31 14 389 370 370 343 195 33 15 405 385 385 357 203 35 16 421 400 400 371 211 37 17 434 413 413 382 217 39 18 446 424 424 393 223 41 19 458 436 436 404 229 43 20 468 445 445 412 234 45 21 477 454 454 420 239 47

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diedamskopf au-schoppernau

Diedamskopf with the panoramic cable car and mountain restaurant

The skiing area of Au-Schoppernau is located on the Diedamskopf, at an ­altitude of 2,090 m above sea level.

From the mountain plateau, you get a magnificent panorama as far as Lake Constance and way across the surrounding mountains. The ­Diedamskopf is also well-known for its colourful paragliding and hang-­gliding scene. You can walk to the peak of the Diedamskopf via the ­winter h ­ iking path from the mountain station.

Night-time skiing at the Grunholz lift in Au The Grunholz lift is easy to reach in Au. The ski tow opens up two lovely, gently sloping pistes. This is one of the few places in the Bregenzerwald that you can ski and toboggan in the evening under floodlight. Evening opening times are every Wednesday and Friday between 7 and 10 p.m. The right-hand piste is open for skiers, the left-hand piste for tobogganists. The three-valley ski pass is valid on the lift.

tip: diedams ­valley descent The fit choose the 10 km-long ­valley descent, with a difference in altitude of 1,250 m!

Guest kindergarten in Didi’s kids’ adventure land Located on the top floor of the mountain station is a kids’ adventure land 300 m² in size. In addition to the game stations, lovingly crafted wooden toys from Wälder-Spielzeug are available for the children to play with. Kids are supervised and can spend the whole day or a few hours playing here. Didi’s kids’ adventure land is open between 10 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. when the cable car is operating, and is free for all children from 3 to 8-years. Lunch is also available upon request. There is a parent/child area for children up to 3 years of age.

Admission is free.

Panoramic mountain As the highest point in Bregenzerwald, Diedamskopf is well known as a panoramic mountain. With the breath-taking view it offers of over 300 peaks, Lake Constance and, on good days even as far as Ulm Cathedral, Diedamskopf delights the young and the old alike.

diedamskopf au-schoppernau

dining out well-being

après ski Schoppernau: Ski Inn Au: Ur-Alp restaurant

culture

day ticket Adult: € 41 Child: € 23.50

active winter

ski rental • Sport Gorbach, Au T +43 (0)5515 4141-1 www.gorbach.at • Sport Fuchs, Au T +43 (0)5515 2315 www.sportfuchs.com • Sport Matt, Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4120 www.matt.at

family tips

ski school & children’s ski school Au-Schoppernau snow sports school T +43 (0)5515 2133 www.schneesportschule-bregenzer­ wald.at

xc skiing

information Diedamskopf cable cars Au-­Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4110-0 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5515 4110-99 www.diedamskopf.at www.facebook.at/diedamskopf

ski & freedom

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 40 km of which: 13 km are blue pistes 11 km are red pistes 7 km are black pistes 9 km of ski trails

ski & board

Diedamspark & Freeriding As the largest snow park in the region, Pleasure Diedamspark is a highlight for both snowboarders and freeskiers. Fun for all is guaranteed: there is something for everyone, beginners and advanced athletes alike, with the varied rails, boxes and kickers from easy through to pro. The Pleasure Diedamspark is supervised daily by a shape crew of four from the Quality-Parks company (QParks).

Loungers and a pleasant sound in the chill area invite you to hang out. In addition to steep shoots and gap jumps, Diedamskopf offers any amount of first-class spots for powder kickers. The runs in the hollow on the Krüzlelift are a classic. The terrain is fairly steep: and that is why it is imperative to always obey the avalanche warning levels! www.­diedamspark.at www.facebook.at/diedamskopf

lifts and cable cars 2 cable cars 2 chair lifts 4 ski tows

land & lives

Innovative and child-friendly: the snow sports school Kids playfully take their first steps on skis in “Didiland”. There are three moving walkways, a carousel, shuggy boats, a snow igloo, a tent and a lot more. The ski courses for older children include an adventure and safety programme with a BBQ in the tepee, snow-rafting on a skidoo, abseiling and jumping on the bungee trampoline. The snow sports school’s safety camps inform children about everything they need to know regarding “safety in snow sports”.

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diedamskopf au-schoppernau

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diedamskopf au-schoppernau

land & lives

ski & board

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culture

dining out

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16

damüls-mellau-faschina

Varied ski runs in Damüls-Mellau

The cable car and a ski tunnel 120 m in length connect the skiing areas of Mellau and Damüls. 109 km of pistes around the centrally located Mittags­ spitze await guests. In Damüls, you literally step out of the front door and are on the piste. NEW: ten-seater cable car from Mellau to the skiing area The skiing area full of snow and ideas – for everyone The natural conditions which reign in Damüls and Mellau mean that they perfectly complement each other. Sunny south slopes, top piste conditions right through to spring on the north slopes – and snow in abundance! With around 10 m of new snow per winter, Damüls has been the proud bearer of the title “the permanently inhabited village most assured of snow in the world” since 2005. In the picturesque Walser ­village of Damüls, most hotels and guest houses are situated directly next to the slopes. Skiers just have to leave the front door to start enjoying the skiing fun. A slope even passes the ­village church, worth seeing for its cultural history. Mellau enjoys a ­central location in the valley and offers easy access to the skiing area.

NEW from Dec. 2015: ten-seater Mellau cable car The new ten-seater Mellau cable car can transport over 3,100 people per hour, and has a range of services on offer at the valley station: sports shop, café with terrace, après ski, ski rental, ski depot, workshop, ski school and inside cash desk area. A supervised kindergarten for guests is located in the mountain station.

Burton Snowpark in Damüls Seit Jahren ist der Snowpark als Freestyle Hotspot bekannt. Vor Ort kümmert sich eine engagierte Crew darum, dass alles in Schuss ist. Zu den vielfältigen Einrichtungen ­zählen verschiedene Rails, Tables, Boxes, eine Chill-out-Area und einen Small-Park mit zusätzlichen Obstacles. www.snowparkdamuels.com Here’s to the little heroes of the pistes The ski schools in Damüls and Mellau offer: child care for toddlers, children’s skiing courses including lunchtime supervision, motorised sleigh rides (→ p. 19), beginners’ area with rope tows.

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lifts and cable cars 2 cable cars 15 chair lifts 2 ski tows 4 practice lifts 2 rope tows 6 moving walkways

ski school & children’s ski school • Damüls ski school T +43 (0)5510 295 www.skischule-damuels.at • Mellau ski and snowboard school T +43 (0)5518 2222-24 www.skischule-mellau.at

land & lives

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 109 km of which: 28 km are blue pistes 50 km are red pistes 10 km are black pistes 21 km of ski trails

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 46 Child: € 26

xc skiing family tips active winter culture well-being

Certificate of Excellence 2015 The skiing resort of Damüls-Mellau-Faschina was awarded with the ­Certificate of Excellence 2015 by the travellers of TripAdvisor. www.tripadvisor.at

dining out

ski rental • Madlener Sport, Damüls T +43 (0)5510 391 www.sport-madlener.at • manis rent sport center, Damüls T +43 (0)699 12109630 www.manis-center.at • Sport Broger, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2240 www.sportbroger.at • Sport Natter, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 22620 www.sportnatter.com • Sport Natter, Mellau cable car valley station T +43 (0)5518 2222-37 www.sportnatter.com • Sport Natter, Mellau Alphof Rossstelle inn T +43 (0)5518 2222-38 www.sportnatter.com

ski & freedom

information • Damüls cable cars T +43 (0)5510 600 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5510 600-14 • Mellau cable cars T +43 (0)5518 2222 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5518 2222-23 www.damuels-mellau.at

après ski Damüls: ’s Scharfe Eck, ’s Damülser Après Ski, Alpenkluft, Schwartenstadl, Kiosk Uga, HeHo Hütte, Heikes Schirmbar Mellau: Après ski in Mellau cable car valley station, Kanis Stadl Sandro, ’s Bärle, Metzgerstüble

ski & board

damüls-mellau-faschina

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damüls-mellau-faschina

Fun sports afternoon with snowblades and Ski Fox In the company of the skiing and snowboarding instructor, guests ­discover the skiing area of Mellau-Damüls – by snow blades and Skifox.

Meeting point: office of Mellau ski school, valley station of Mellau cable car Date: daily upon request Duration: approx. 2 hours Price per person: from € 45 including fun sports equipment, excluding ski pass, minimum number of participants is 3, otherwise ­subject to a surcharge. information & registration Mellau ski and snowboard school T +43 (0)664 3946253 www.skischule-mellau.at

damüls-mellau-faschina

19 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter culture

Bunny’s snowmobile rides for children A very special experience for the kids. Dash through the snow on childfriendly snowmobiles.

Meeting point: 10.30 a.m. on the practice terrain of Damüls ski school at Riedboden Date: every Wednesday between 23 December 2015 and the end of the season Price: € 5 for 5 rounds information & registration Registration for people not enrolled at the ski school by 4 p.m. the day before Damüls ski school T +43 (0)5510 295 www.skischule-damuels.at

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warth-schröcken ski arlberg

View of Warth

The alpine Walser villages of Warth and Schröcken with their skiing area located at between 1,500 and 2,050 m above sea level are assured of snow.

According to a survey carried out by the Daily Mail, it is the skiing area most assured of natural snow in the whole of Europe. Its altitude combined with its north and east slopes means that Warth-Schröcken is assured of the best snow and piste conditions until the end of April. The new “Auenfeldjet” has been joining the skiing areas of Warth-Schröcken and Lech-Zürs, resulting in the largest skiing area in Vorarlberg, since the ­winter of 2013/14.

Ski connection Warth-Schröcken and Lech-Zürs With 340 km of ski runs and 97 lifts, SkiArlberg offers a unique skiing experience from Warth-Schröcken to Lech-Zürs and St. Christoph as far as St. Anton. Guests in Warth-Schröcken can choose between various types of ticket: the ski pass for WarthSchröcken is still available. Now, the 3-valley ski pass for the regions of Bregenzerwald, Großes Walsertal and Lechtal is also available. Holders of 3-valley ski passes can also purchase a discounted Ski-Arlberg ski ticket for

individual days. Alternatively, guests in Warth-Schröcken can purchase the Ski-Arlberg ski pass which includes use of the entire Ski-Arlberg area, which covers over 340 km of pistes.

Snow fun for the whole family Ski movie racing track At the new ski movie track on the Steffisalp-Express, skiers are filmed by an automatic video camera during their giant slalom run. They are also timed: you can download your very own ski movie free of charge by entering your ski pass number at: www.warthschroecken.at.

Steffisalp fun slope On two lines, winter athletes discover an alternative to classic pleasure on the slopes thanks to numerous waves, bumps, steep curves, fun boxes, butter boxes and a snail. Well-established and new winter sports elements come together for a unique experience for young and old, professionals and beginners. You can access the new Steffisalp fun slope by taking the fourseater Wannenkopf cable car or the Steffisalp-Express.

Further offers: Parallel giant slalom with high-tech timing, speed-check

warth-schröcken ski arlberg

Ski-Arlberg ski tickets Discounted Ski Arlberg ski tickets, available for holders of 3-valley ski passes.

culture dining out well-being

Ski & Concert Après ski at its best – live music from pop and rock through to blues and Irish folk as well as top acts from the new folk music scene – live on the open-air stage at Sporthotel Steffisalp.

Dates: 6 February until 9 April 2016, at 3 p.m. every Saturday Location: open-air stage at Sporthotel Steffisalp, Warth Free admission Information: Skilifte Warth GmbH & Co T +43 (0)5583 3601-0 www.skiandconcert.at

active winter

après ski Schröcken: Holzschopf, Café Bar Bistro Ritters, S1-Salober Warth: Best Of – Pub, Sennkuchi, ­Steffisalp – skiing hut and umbrella bar, ’s Finale – Wartherhof

family tips

ski school & children’s ski school • Ski and snowboard school Salober-Schröcken T +43 (0)5583 4259600 www.skischule-salober.at • Ski and snowboard school Warth T +43 (0)5583 3443 www.skischule-warth.at

Arlberg: Adult: € 51 Child: € 30

xc skiing

Ski lifts Schröcken Strolz GmbH T +43 (0)5583 4259-0 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5583 2255 www.warth-schroecken.at

day ticket (high season) Warth-Schröcken: Adult: € 49 Child: € 25

ski & freedom

information Ski lifts Warth GmbH & Co T +43 (0)5583 3601-0 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5583 3601-11 www.warth-schroecken.at

ski & board

pistes Length of the slopes: 340 km, of which: 145 km are blue pistes 140 km are red pistes 55 km are black pistes

ski rental • Sport Schneller, Schröcken T +43 (0)5519 201 www.sportschneller.at • Sport Jug, Warth T +43 (0)5583 39827 or T +43 (0)664 5559910 www.sport-jug.at • Sport Knitel, Warth T +43 (0)5583 3612 www.sport-center-hotel-garni.at

land & lives

lifts and cable cars 6 aerial tramways 5 cable cars 51 chair lifts 32 ski tows

21

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Pauli’s Ski Arena for families Pauli’s Ski Arena at Salober valley station – makes younger guests’ dreams come true. The learning terrain enjoys a sunny location in the middle of the skiing area, and is directly connected to the large lifts.

Young skiers can test their skills on the toddlers’ training terrain, in the adventure land and on Pauli’s rope tow. The sliding hill and the igloo construction site offer great playground experiences for a change of scenery.

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warth-schröcken ski arlberg

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xc skiing

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ski & freedom

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active winter

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family tips

14

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culture

6

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dining out well-being

Permanent avalanche search equipment training centre and SAA camps With one of the most modern avalanche search equipment training ­centres in the Alps, the Warth-Schröcken ski area offers freeriders and variation ­skiers ideal training conditions, and focuses increasingly on the topic of safety competence. The permanently installed training centre next to the ­Steffisalp Express enables you to learn how best to handle the latest a ­ valanche search equipment, to rehearse successful search strategies and to try out an ­emergency under realistic conditions every day between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Snow and avalanche awareness camps for skiers and snowboarders are also held on specific dates.

24

alberschwende

ALBERSCHWENDE Ortszentrum, Bank, Arzt, Tourismusbüro BRÜGGELEKOPF Sessellift und Schlepplifte, Skischule INTERSPORT SPETTEL LANGLAUFLOIPE BRÜGGELEKOPF TALSTATION ALPENGASTHOF BRÜGGELE IMBISSTUBE BERCHTOLDSHÖHE TANNERBERGSTÜBLE TANNERSTÜBLE DRESSLERSTÜBLE

SESSELLIFT BRÜGGELEKOPF SCHLEPPLIFT SOHMSBERG ZIPFELLIFT HÖHENLIFT TANNERBERGLIFT TANNERBERG-BABYLIFT DRESSLERBERGLIFT BÜHLERBERG-ABFAHRT GREBAN-ABFAHRT RUNDFAHRT TANNERBERG DRESSLERBERG SOHMSBERG RODELROUTE LORENA RODELBAHN ZIPFELLIFT

lifts and cable cars 1 chair lift 6 ski tows pistes Length of the slopes: 18 km of which: 4 km are blue pistes 14 km are red pistes information Ski lifts Alberschwende T +43 (0)5579 4323 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5579 4323 or T +43 (0)5579 4233 www.alberschwende.at http://lift.alberschwende.info

tip: skiing area for families This is the ideal skiing area for beginners and families with small children.

ski school & children’s ski school Skiing and snowboarding school Alberschwende T +43 (0)664 73086707 http://lift.alberschwende.info ski rental Sport Spettel, Alberschwende T +43 (0)5579 4241 www.spettel.at day ticket (high season) Adult: € 28.50 Child: € 15.80

bödele-schwarzenberg

25 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom

après ski Berghof Fetz, Meierei

active winter culture dining out well-being

information Tourist office Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 3570 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5572 7321 ski school & children’s ski school www.boedele.info • Ski school Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)664 2214075 www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at Skiing with the magic wand • Ski school Bödele A method developed by the T +43 (0)664 75036843 school itself guarantees that all www.skischule-boedele.at children from 3½ years of age are able to ski on the practice slopes ski rental on their own after four ­individual • Bergsport Fink, Schwarzenberg lessons.

T +43 (0)5512 2918 Should a child not succeed, the www.bergfink.at ski instructor keeps on skiing free • Skishop Bödele of charge until he/she does!

Berghof Fetz Price: T +43 (0)664 75036843 € 59 per hour www.skischule-boedele.at Information • Skifit Bödele Schwarzenberg ski school Hochälpele ski lift, valley station T +43 (0)664 2214075 T +43 (0)5512 26807 www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at www.skifit.at

family tips

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 24 km, of which: 9 km are blue pistes 12 km are red pistes 3 km are black pistes

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 31.50 Child: € 17.30

xc skiing

lifts and cable cars 1 chair lift 8 ski tows 1 connecting lift

26

egg-schetteregg

Abf 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11

5 9

9

10 8 6

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lifts and cable cars 1 chair lift 5 ski tows

= schwierig

Wanderwege:

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 10 km of which: 3 km are blue pistes 6 km are red pistes 1 km are black pistes

Schetti’s kids’ paradise Magic carpets and a ski carousel in the kids’ paradise can be used free of charge by all visitors.

Young guests have enough to do in the breaks in Schettiland with its igloo, climbing hill and a ­tubing run.

Pistes for kids: all pistes in Schetteregg bears a mascot which briefly describes what children should be capable of in order to ski on that particular piste. From the snowplough turn on the hedgehog circuit, through to safe curving on the bear slope through to dynamic carving on the lynx piste.

kleiner Wanderweg

Startpunkt großer Wanderweg

information Egger lift company T +43 (0)5512 4750 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5512 4750-13 www.schetteregg.at ski school & children’s ski school Ski school Schetteregg T +43 (0)680 2446881 www.schi-schule.at ski rental Sport Waldner T +43 (0)5512 4750-21 www.sportwaldner.at day ticket (high season) Adult: € 31 Child: € 17 après ski Jokler inn

hochhäderich hittisau-riefensberg

27 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 29 Child: € 19 après ski Umbrella bar at the valley station

culture

ski school & children’s ski school • Snow sports school Hochhäderich Timm Stade T +43 (0)5513 8254-171 www.skischule-stade.de

active winter

information Alpenarena Hochhäderich T +43 (0)5513 8254-0 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5513 8254-51 www.alpenarena.com

family tips

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 9 km of which: 4 km are blue pistes 3 km are red pistes 2 km are black pistes

ski rental • Jakobs Skishop, Hochhäderich T +43 (0)5513 8254-61 www.alpenarena.com • Sport Spettel, Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6341 www.spettel.at • Sport Gotthard, Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 2260 www.sport-gotthard.com

xc skiing

lifts and cable cars 1 chair lift 4 ski tows

well-being

Almhotel right next to the piste with family apartments, swimming pool and wellness area.

Ideal for families with small children.

dining out

tip: skiing area for families

28

niedere andelsbuch-bezau

lifts and cable cars 1 large cable car in Bezau (60 p.)

2 chair lifts 4 ski tows 1 practice lift 1 moving walkway valley station Andelsbuch

ski rental • Sport Dorner, Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5512 2482 www.schneeprofi.at • Bergsport Leitner, Bezau T +43 (0)5514 31441 www.alpinsports.com

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 15 km of which: 5 km are blue pistes 9 km are red pistes 1 km are black pistes

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 30.80 Child: € 17.80

information Andelsbuch cable cars T +43 (0)5512 2540 Snow hotline: T + 43 (0)5512 2540 www.bergbahnen-andelsbuch.at Bezau cable car T +43 (0)5514 2254 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5514 2254 www.seilbahn-bezau.at

après ski Andelsbuch: Mooser Stüble, s´piano in Gasthof Löwen, Jöslar, Lissbar und E-Werk

tip: variation skiing: Fantastic north and south slopes for variation skiers.

Bezau cable car, an aerial tramway with a stop at Sonderdach.

Plus: panorama restaurant, seats approx. 150, in Baumgarten ­mountain station.

hochlitten riefensberg

29 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 26.50 Child: € 17

active winter

information Ski lifts Hochlitten T +43 (0)5513 8312-2 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5513 8239 www.skilifte-hochlitten.com

family tips

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 4.4 km of which: 4.4 km are blue pistes

ski school & children’s ski school Ski and snowboard school Hittisau-Sibratsgfäll T +43 (0)664 2143723 www.ski-snowboard-schule.at Paul Heinzle T +43 (0)664 1511623

xc skiing

lifts and cable cars 4 ski tows

dining out well-being

Located away from the ­hustle and bustle of large skiing areas. Small yet exquisite skiing area, ideal for families with small children.

Plus: racing service and three racing tracks for club, association or company races NEW: FIS-homologated slalom run for men and women.

culture

tip: skiing area for families

30

ski!project – skiing courses & exercise coaching

Check out www.skiprojekt.at/methoden to see what this is all about!

Turning and floating, on the slopes or through powder snow. That is the motto of these skiing courses – ­including following a recovered injury.

In these skiing workshops you develop a dynamic, energy-saving skiing technique that is kind to your joints – according to your own individual needs. The special method and the structure of the workshops enable you to improve your ­skiing in a quick, sustainable manner.

Complex sequences of movement needed for carving or skiing in deep snow are conveyed and optimised by means of simple, playful movements and exercises to reinforce your body awareness.

Please note: The courses are held on specified dates. Booking is required. You can only start on the first day of the course. Detailed information is available on the website: www.skiprojekt.at and in the programme brochure.

Management: Michael Widmer-Willam He is a passionate skier, dance and performance artist and, as a ski trainer, enjoys trying out new skiing techniques and movements. In his workshops, he combines his many years’ experience in teaching ­skiing and his knowledge of the body and movement with the lightness of dance.

Offers: Intensive workshops in s­ kiing technique for all skill levels, deep snow courses, courses for ­returnees following extended absences, ­injuries or physical weaknesses Services: • 6-8 lesson programme • constant video analysis • individualised skiing model • long-term, individual development planning • personalised equipment consultancy • cultural trips in the region (optional) information & reservation ski!Projekt T +43 (0)664 42 05 221 www.skiprojekt.at

31 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing active winter

The conditions for off-piste skiing are ­perfect since there is so much snow about. Skiing tours and – the more leisurely version – ­variation ­skiing are enjoying increasing popularity.

family tips

ski & freedom

culture dining out well-being

32

map of the area

5

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Skiing tours for beginners 1: Brendler Lug (1,767 m) 2: Portlahorn (2,010 m) 3: Hirschberg (1,500 m) 4: Hochälpele Kopf (1,464 m) 5: Feuerstätterkopf (1,645 m) Skiing tours for the advanced 6: Juppenspitze (2,412 m) 7: Üntschenspitze (2,135 m) 8: Kanisfluh (2,044 m) 9: Winterstaude (1,877 m) 10: Hochkünzelspitze (2,397 m)

Routes for variation skiing 11: Klemm via Salober 12: Bockbachtaltour 13: Around Hohen Ifen

recommended reading “Skitourenführer Bregenzerwald inkl. Großes Walsertal und Lechquellengebirge” by A. Kempf/ R. Kempf published by Panico Alpinverlag (in German only)

interesting information

33 land & lives ski & board active winter culture dining out

Respect your boundaries However, anyone out and about enjoying the countryside needs to keep in mind that it is also a very sensitive habitat for plants and ­animals which is worth ­protecting.

Please don’t take any short-cuts through forest paths, since they are often used by wild game as a ­refuge. Moreover, the edges of skis and snowboards can easily damage the young forest. Observe the no-go hunting areas and, if necessary, choose a different tour destination.

It is with this in mind that we also appeal to you to respect preservation and conservation areas and to observe any restrictions.

family tips well-being

emergency telephone numbers (free of charge) • 112 European emergency number • 140 alpine emergencies, Austria • 144 alpine emergencies, Vorarlberg

vorarlberg avalanche warning service Free use of the avalanche alarm ­service via fax, e-mail or the Internet: www.vorarlberg.at/lawine Avalanche information app: www.snowsafe.at 24-hour recorded message: T +43 (0)5574 201 1588

xc skiing

Safety tips for off-piste skiing Please note that you are skiing at your own risk! This brochure only contains suggested routes.

• Off-piste skiing is fun when you master the technique. The Bregenzer­wald ski schools offer courses to this end.

• The correct equipment and clothing are essential safety factors.

• Anyone skiing off piste needs ­avalanche equipment (­avalanche search equipment, probe, avalanche shovel, First Aid kit) and also needs to know how to use such equipment!

• Never set off too late. In ­winter, it starts getting dark at 4.30 p.m.

• Never set off if it is snowing/foggy.

• The skiing and mountain guides are familiar with the place and ­terrain and ensure that you safely reach your destination – and back home.

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Annalperjoch ascent

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skiing tours The Bregenzerwald is famous for its wide range of enjoyable skiing tours, comprising the very gentle through to the more arduous. ­Following an ascent taking 2 to 5 hours on cross-country skis and skins, swing down the magnificent slopes off the prepared pistes and down into the v ­ alley. You can rent the appropriate equipment such as skis and avalanche search equipment from the local ski rental shops.

At the following pages we present 10 recommended tours. We recommend that you only embark on these tours in the company of the ski schools’ mountain and skiing guides, or that you reserve one of our package deals.

This way, you’ll safely reach the loveliest places, and receive valuable tips on the way.

Package deals on offer Take your pick from our selection of package deals for ski tourers. Package deals for beginners and advanced ski tourers alike are presented on www.bregenzerwald.at, which is also the address for making reservations.

Skiing tours for beginners 1: brendler lug (1,767 m) The gentle, classic skiing tour close to Au, with north-facing slopes and glades is most fun in the powder snow/new snow.

Difference in altitude: 950 m Starting point: car park of Au’s ­village hall 2: portlahorn (2,010 m) Straightforward panorama tour across the Damüls skiing area.

Difference in altitude: 400 m Starting point: Jägerstüble inn on the road between Oberdamüls and Furkajoch

3: hirschberg (1,500 m) This tour takes you through ­ fantastic skiing terrain in an area ­formerly home to pistes.

Difference in altitude: 700 m Starting point: valley station of the Hirschberg cable car 4: hochälpelekopf (1,464 m) This area is recommended particularly for beginners or those wishing to enjoy a short afternoon tour.

Difference in altitude: 450 m Starting point: Gmeind, part of the village of Schwarzenberg 5: feuerstätterkopf (1,645 m) This lovely, popular tour takes you across gentle ski slopes, without any flat spots.

Difference in altitude: 650 m Starting point: from Sibratsgfäll, Alpenrose inn Skiing tours for the advanced 6: juppenspitze (2,412 m) This skiing tour has perfectly inclined and sunny slopes at higher altitudes.

Difference in altitude: 1,200 m Starting point: at Mohnenfluh hotel in Schröcken 7: üntschenspitze (2,135 m) This tour, which covers lovely slopes to the south west and the north east, is hidden away on Schoppernau’s impressive very own mountain.

Difference in altitude: 1,150 m Starting point: Schoppernau, Bad Hopfreben inn 8: kanisfluh (2,044 m) Dominating the entire Bregenzerwald, the mighty Kanisfluh – with its steep north side sloping over 1,200 m – takes you by surprise with

skiing tours

family tips active winter culture dining out well-being

ski!project skiing tours These specific ski tour workshops incorporate Feldenkrais units. The objective is to simplify the sequences of movements in order to minimise the amount of effort required for the ascent and for skiing down the slopes. The focus of these workshops is on the interplay between movement, skiing and a relaxing experience in nature.

Offers: for all skill levels, for beginners who are unsure of their

Ski tours for beginners and experts alike Enjoy a bit of peace and quiet away from the slopes, and recharge your batteries in a practically unspoilt ­natural setting – that is what is so ­fascinating about a ski tour.

Location: Schröcken Meeting point: to be disclosed upon booking Dates: weekly, between December and early April Duration: tours with climbs between 1.5 and 3.5 hours Price per person: from € 130 information and booking Schneesportschule Schröcken Hochkrumbach, Josef Staggl T +43 (0)664 7575500 or +43 (0)5519 271 www.schneesport-schule.com

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Well supervised!

Skiing in the deep snow and going on skiing tours are fascinating a ­ ctivities.

However, problems frequently come from a lack of regard for safe skiing, skiing which doesn’t conserve one’s own energy or simply a lack of self-confidence.

ski & freedom

10: hochkünzelspitze (2,397 m) The Hochkünzelspite offers the ­experienced ski tourer magnificent runs in an alpine setting.

Difference in altitude: 1,300 m Starting point: Schröcken, Landsteg bus stop, approx. 2 km to Bad Hopfreben

Skiing tour with Moses Ski and mountain guide Markus Moosbrugger shows his guests the mountains. Depending on time and fitness levels, various peaks in the Bregenzerwald and on the Arlberg are on the itinerary.

Meeting point: Schoppernau, Riese 238 Date: daily, upon request Duration: day tour, approx. 4–5 hours Price per person: from € 60 information Markus Moosbrugger T +43 (0)664 3429465 www.mitmoses.at

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9: winterstaude (1,877 m) It is close to Egg that the most-used route is located: despite its steep grassy slopes, it is used astoundingly frequently.

Difference in altitude: 800 m Starting point: Egg-Schetteregg, lift car park

condition or ability to ski downhill, for returnees (following injuries or long absences). The snow sports school in Au-Schoppernau is a cooperation ­partner. Please note: fixed dates. Booking is essential. You can only start on the first day of the course. information Michael Priesner, T +43 676 7245641 www.skiprojekt.at

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an ­outstandingly lovely skiing tour on its south side.

Difference in altitude: 1,250 m Starting point: from Au, in the ­direction of Damüls, across the ­Argenbach bridge (car park)

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variation skiing Variation skiing is the leisurely, enjoyable form of skiing off piste. Most ascents are taken by lift, and then you ski off piste.

Here are 3 recommended routes. For reasons of safety and orientation, we recommend that you only embark on these tours in the company of the ski schools’ mountain and skiing guides.

the lifts, you only have short ascents to overcome. The Hike & Ride offer is available for 4 days on specific dates. dates, information & booking www.warth-schroecken.com

Freeriding with Moses The objectives of the day are ­effortless ascents and long runs with ski and mountain guide Markus Moosbrugger.

Place: Schoppernau Meeting point: Schoppernau, Riese 238 Routes for variation skiers Date: daily, upon request 11: klemm via salober Duration: day tour, approx. 5-6 hours Place: Warth – Schröcken – Lech in total Starting point: Salober Express Price per person: from € 70 Ascent: Auenfeld-Sattel, information approx. 20 min.

Highest point: Mohnenfluhsattel 2,300 m Markus Moosbrugger Destination: Schröcken – H ­ eimboden T +43 (0)664 3429465 www.mitmoses.at 1,270 m Difference in altitude: approx.

1,630 m run Freeride-terrain variation skiing You take the Mellau cable car to the skiing area of Mellau-Damüls, where 12: bockbachtaltour guests ski off piste on a number of Place: Warth – Steeg Starting point: Wartherhorn cable car ­different routes under the supervision of a state-certified ski instructor.

Ascent: Wartherhornsattel, approx.

30 min., Wöstersattel, approx. 45 min. Location: Mellau-Damüls skiing area Meeting point: ski school office, Highest point: Rüfikopf 2,340 m 10 a.m.

Destination: Steeg 1,250 m Dates: 14 December 2015 to 10 April Difference in altitude: approx.

2016, daily upon request 1,800 m run Duration: 2 hours Minimum number of participants: 3 13: around hohen ifen Price per person: € 45 including Place: Schoppernau – Kleinwalsertal ­avalanche search equipment Starting point: Diedamskopf (excluding lift pass) Ascent: approx. 300 m information and booking Highest point: 2,060 m Destination: Schönenbach near Bizau Book before 4 p.m. the day before Mellau ski school Difference in altitude: approx.

T +43 (0)664 3946253 2,000 m run www.skischule-mellau.at Hike & Ride in Warth-Schröcken Skiing tour events Under the professional guidance Hahnenköpfle race of the local ski schools in WarthDate: 20 February 2016 Schröcken, you get the best views of www.fcbizau.at the back country of the Hochtannberg and Arlberg region. If you take

37 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom family tips active winter

Cross-country skiing is very popular as an 足alternative to skiing or as a good way of 足recharging your batteries in the fresh air.

Especially when the cross-country ski runs are as well looked-after as they are in the Bregenzerwald.

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au-schoppernau

Village cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 50 km of classic cross-country ski runs 13 km of skating runs

Village cross-country ski run length 13.8 km

altitude 850 m classification easy to difficult preparation Mid-December until Easter cross-country skiing courses Au-Schoppernau snow sports school T +43 (0)5515 2133 Au-Schoppernau cross-country ski school T +43 (0)677 61096022 ski rental • Sport Gorbach, Au T +43 (0)5515 4141-2 • Sport Fuchs, Au T +43 (0)5515 2315 • Sport Matt, Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4120

difference in altitude 85 m itinerary This cross-country ski run takes you through Au and Schoppernau with various connection points to other cross-country ski runs.

From Au-Argenzipfel, it takes you through Äuele to Schoppernau and through a forest to the mountain pasture settlement of Armengemach. Via the Bregenzer­ achsteg, you pass through “­paradise” and, across open fields, to Äuele forest. Via Kreuzgasse, you arrive at the underpass next to the church bridge. After Reute grazing meadow and Argenzipfel, you arrive at Kanisfluhloipe. chances to stop off for a drink/food in Au-Schoppernau

bezau-bizau-reuthe

39 land & lives ski & board

The circuit length 12 km

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cross-country ski runs 20 km of classic cross-country ski runs 12 km of skating runs

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Circuit

altitude 650 m classification easy to intermediate difference in altitude 50 m

characteristic Scenic, charming and varied ­circuit.

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chances to stop off for a drink/food ­Inns in Bezau, Bizau and Reuthe

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ski rental • Bergsport Leitner, Bezau T +43 (0)5514 31441 • Sport Bertsch, Bizau T +43 (0)5514 4127

itinerary The circuit takes you through all three villages, and can be ­commenced and terminated at any of the villages.

active winter

Langlaufkurse Daniela Moosbrugger T +43 (0)664 5257110

family tips

preparation Mid-December until Mid-March

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damüls

Stofel alpine cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 7 km of classic cross-country ski runs 7 km of skating runs

Stofel alpine cross-country ski run

altitude 1,500 – 1,650 m

length 5 km

preparation Early December until early April

classification intermediate to difficult

cross-country skiing courses Damüls snow sports school T +43 (0)5510 295

difference in altitude 80 m

ski rental Sport Madlener, Damüls T +43 (0)5510 391 tip The free local bus takes cross-­ country skiers to the starts of the ­cross-­country ski runs.

itinerary Zimba inn – circuit around the Stofel high plateau – Zimba inn characteristic Circuit with an impressive ­mountain panorama. chances to stop off for a drink/food Zimba inn

hittisau

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length approx. 70 km

preparation December until end of March

classification easy to intermediate

fee for use of cross-country ski run Day ticket € 4.50, Afternoon ticket € 3 free for guests of the village

difference in altitude 240 m

characteristic An extensive cross-country skiing tour which can be shortened according to wishes.

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chances to stop off for a drink/food Loipenstüble, Biberstein and inns in ­Balderschwang and Hittisau

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ski rental • Sport Spettel, Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6341 • Sport Gotthard, Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 2260 • Jakobs Skishop, Hochhäderich T +43 (0)5513 8254-61

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cross-country skiing courses Ski school Hittisau-Sibratsgfäll T +43 (0)664 2143723

itinerary Hittisau centre – Helmisau – Dornbündt – Sippersegg – ­Biberstein – border with Germany– start of the Balderschwang ski-hiking network – return by bus or along the ­cross-country ski run

active winter

altitude 800 m – 1,040 m

family tips

Border country ­cross-country ski run

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cross-country ski runs 50 km of classic cross-country ski runs 30 km of skating runs

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Border country cross-country ski run

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mellau-schnepfau

Cross-country ski run in Mellau, Hirschau, Schnepfau

cross-country ski runs 23 km of classic cross-country ski runs 20 km of skating runs

Cross-country ski run in M ­ ellau, Hirschau, Schnepfau

altitude 700 m

length 10 km

preparation December until March

classification easy

cross-country skiing courses Ski school Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2222-24

difference in altitude 40 m

ski rental • Sport Natter, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2262 • Sport Broger, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2240

itinerary Car park of Mellau cable cars – Enge – Hirschau – Schnepfau ­centre (return the same route or by bus) characteristc Lovely route at the foot of the ­Kanisfluh through the Enge mountain pasture. chances to stop off for a drink/food Inns in Mellau, Hirschau and Schnepfau

riefensberg-hochhäderich

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length 8.3 km

preparation December until mid-April

classification difficult

fee for use of cross-country ski run Day ticket € 5, with the regional Guest Card € 4

difference in altitude 151 m

chances to stop off for a drink/food Hörmoosalpe, Hochwies inn, Hotel Hochhäderich

dining out

ski rental Jakobs Skishop, Hochhäderich T +43 (0)5513 8254-61

characteristic The course takes you through the sunny high plateau on the Hochhäderich. Those experienced in skating techniques can take a detour to the Falkenhütte.

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cross-country skiing courses Hochhäderich snow sports school Timm Stade T +43 (0)5513 8254-171 www.skischule-stade.de

itinerary Car park of the Hotel ­Hochhäderich – Hörmoos lake – car park of the Hotel Hochhäderich

active winter

altitude 1,300 m

family tips

Hörmoos cross-country ski run

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cross-country ski runs 12 km of classic cross-country ski runs 4 km of skating runs

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Hörmoos cross-country ski run

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schwarzenberg

Fohramoos cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 10 km of classic cross-country ski runs

Fohramoos cross-country ski run

altitude 1,130 – 1,190 m

length 10 or 6 km

preparation Early December until Mid-March

classification easy to intermediate

ski rental • Bergsport Fink T +43 (0)5512 2918 • Skishop Bödele Berghof Fetz T +43 (0)664 75036843 • Skifit Bödele Hochälpele valley station T +43 (0)5512 26807

difference in altitude 60 m itinerary Start and end at the valley station of Oberlose lift: from there, you go in a westerly direction through the nature reserve of Fohramoos in several bends towards Losenpass (old) and then along Schwendeweg back to Oberlose mountain ­station. You return to Oberlose ­valley station via Schwendeweg. characteristic Scenic and varied circuit through Natura 2000 and the nature reserve. chances to stop off for a drink/food ­Meierei, Berghof Fetz

sibratsgfäll

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length 18 km

preparation Mid-December until early April

classification intermediate

fee for use of cross-country ski run Day ticket € 4.50, free for guests of the village

difference in altitude 150 m

cross-country skiing courses Ski school Hittisau-Sibratsgfäll T +43 (0)664 3054015

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chances to stop off for a drink/food Bilgeri snack bar in Sibratsgfäll, Egender inn, Schönenbach

dining out

characteristic A route for cross-country skiing enthusiasts, not too technically demanding. Particularly scenic route through the valley of the Subersach.

culture

ski rental Engelbert Dorner T +43 (0)5513 2113

itinerary Krähenberg ski lift – walk to the base of the cross-country ski run at the Bilgeri snack bar – along the Subersach as far as Vorsäß Schönenbach mountain pasture – return the same route

active winter

altitude 930 m

family tips

Cross-country ski run between Sibratsgfäll and Schönenbach

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cross-country ski runs 25 km of classic cross-country ski runs 2 km of skating runs

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Cross-country ski run between Sibratsgfäll and Schönenbach

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sulzberg

Panorama cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 20 km of classic cross-country ski runs 20 km of skating runs It is possible to cross over the border to the Westallgäu network of crosscountry ski runs. altitude 1,015 m preparation December until 15 March cross-country skiing courses Cross-country biathlon school Nordic Sport Park Sulzberg Ingrid Fink-Nöckler T +43 (0)664 5323102 www.langlaufschule-bregenzerwald.at night-time cross-country skiing By floodlight every Mon to Fri between 5 and 9 p.m.

Part of the cross-country skiing runs is served by a snow making system. biathlon facility Nordic Sport Park (→ page 47) ski rental Nordic Sport Park

Panorama cross-country ski run length 6 km (classic and skating) classification easy to difficult itinerary Leave Oberdorf – continue in the direction of Hochsträß – circuit (it is possible to turn off on to the Westallgäu network of cross-­ country ski runs) chances to stop off for a drink/food Hochsträßstüble (closed on Mondays) info The use of the panorama crosscountry ski run is free. All other cross-country ski runs in the ­Nordic Sport Park are subject to a fee. (→ page 47).

nordic sport park sulzberg

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Selection of cross-country ski runs • All cross-country ski runs are groomed for classic and skating purposes (→ page 46).

• The cross-country ski runs in the ­Nordic Sport Park are subject to a fee, including during the day. The

Events 12 December 2015: opening of the crosscountry skiing season 15 and 22 January 2016: Skinfit crosscountry workshop 17 January 2016: family cross-country skiing day information Tourist office Sulzberg T +43 (0)5516 2213-13, www.sulzberg.at Nordic Sport Park www.nordic-sport-park.at

active winter

Try out Biathlon Please register if you want to try out this exciting sports activity.

family tips

The Nordic Sport Park also includes the Sulzberg village lift and a popular tobogganing run for sledging and sliding – both of which are only about 200 m from the stadium. Via a connecting cross-country ski run, you arrive at the panorama crosscountry ski run on the ridge of Sulzberg, with a magnificent view of the mountains. Well-groomed paths are available for ­winter hikers. prices € 4.50 per day (including night-time cross-country skiing) or € 65 per season

­ anorama cross-country ski run which p ­connects to the Westallgäu network of cross-country ski runs can be used free of charge.

• Guests from Sulzberg staying three or more nights may use the runs in the Nordic Sport Park (including nighttime x-country skiing) free of charge.

Tickets available from the tourist office upon presentation of the guest card.

• A 4-km circular route is illuminated by floodlights. Cross-country skiing by floodlight is possible every Mon to Fri between 5 and 9 p.m.

The direct connection to the West ­Allgäu network of cross-country ski runs ­provides the trained athlete with over 100 km of cross-country ski runs for all ­levels of proficiency.

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Around 20 km of cross-country ski runs for classic and skating techniques await in the Nordic Sport Park in Sulzberg.

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Nordic Sport Park in Sulzberg

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warth-schröcken

Around Kalbelesee

cross-country ski runs 17 km of classic cross-country ski runs 4 km of skating runs

Around Kalbelesee length 2.5 km

altitude 1,600 m preparation December until mid-April cross-country skiing courses • Ski school Warth T +43 (0)5583 3443 • Ski school Salober-Schröcken T + 43 (0)5583 4259 600 • Schröcken snow sports school T +43 (0)5519 271 or T +43 (0)664 7575500 ski rental • Sport Schneller, Schröcken T +43 (0)5519 201 • Sport Jug, Warth T +43 (0)5583 39827 • Sport Strobl, Hotel Lechtalerhof T +43(0)676 845413200 dogs permitted

classification easy difference in altitude 0 m itinerary Salober car park – around ­Kalbelesee – Salober car park characteristic flat cross-country ski run, suitable for beginners, in a sunny location chances to stop off for a drink/food Mountain gastronomy at the ­valley station in the Salober Ski Arena

49 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom family tips

How about a lap around the ice rink? Or a 足lantern-lit ramble at dusk? Visits to the farm offer exciting insights into ways of life.

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kids’ programme

Tobogganing – a great pleasure

The Bregenzerwald boasts the best conditions for enjoyable family ­holidays. Friendly hosts in the hotels, guest houses, holiday apartments and on the farms offering holidays ensure the right setting for this.

In the ski schools, the youngest guests playfully learn skiing. Those who prefer their winter and snow away from the slopes can take one of the numerous toboggan runs ­ (→ from page 72) or participate in the varied programmes offered by many villages.

If the weather proves an obstacle to outdoor activities, there are many indoor swimming pools to try out, such as the swimming pool in the Hotel Quellengarten in Lingenau, the swimming pools in Bregenz and Dornbirn, and the Aquaria family adventure pool in Oberstaufen in the neighbouring Allgäu (→ page 54).

Tobogganing with children Almost all towns and villages have one or several toboggan runs, many of which are illuminated in the evening. This includes many runs which children can ride alone, or on their parents’ toboggan. Toboggans are available for rent in many towns and villages. The starting points of several toboggan runs can be easily reached by lift (→ page 72).

Well-supervised in the ski schools The Bregenzerwald’s ski schools are well-known for their ­child-friendly programmes. You can find ­further information on selected offers in the chapter Ski and Board (→ page 9).

Village lifts for young skiers The clearly laid-out village lifts are ideal for families with younger children: Bizau: Hütten rope tow Buch: Buch ski lifts Hittisau: Hittisberg ski lift Reuthe: Reuthe Baienberg ski lift Sibratsgfäll: Krähenberg ski lift Sulzberg: Sulzberg village lift, Hagenberg ski lifts

family tips active winter culture dining out well-being

Au-Schoppernau – lantern-lit ramble Carrying brightly lit lanterns and accompanied by mascots “DIDI” and “BASTI”, the children ramble through Schoppernau. The lanterns can be taken home, and burn brightly as a reminder.

Location: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: tourist information office, Schoppernau Dates: 17 December 2015 to 17 March 2016, every Thursday at 5.30 p.m.

Duration: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge information & registration Bookings must be made by 12 p.m.!

Au-Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2288 www.au-schoppernau.at

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Au-Schoppernau – farm experience Life on the farm has a magical appeal to children. They are allowed to stroke the animals and watch the farmer feed, care for and milk the animals.

Place: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: Au, Rehmen church Date: 15 December 2015 until 29 March 2016: every Tuesday at 5.30 p.m.

Length: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge information & registration Tourist office Au-Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2288 www.au-schoppernau.at

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Andelsbuch – mini-bob race Mini-bob race on the practice slope of the valley station of Andelsbuch cable car.

Place: Andelsbuch Meeting point: cable cars Date: every Thursday in February at 4.30 p.m.

Duration: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge information & registration Tourist office Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5512 2565 www.andelsbuch.at

Au-Schoppernau – natural ice-skating area Depending on the weather, the area is prepared between December and February/March. Ice skates can be hired right next to the ice-skating area. Ice-­ skating is free of charge for guests from Au-Schoppernau. information & opening times Tourist office Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2495

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Andelsbuch – craftsmanship in the Werkraumhaus Under pedagogic supervision, children from the age of 5 can try their hands at different crafts.

Location: Andelsbuch Meeting point: Werkraumhaus Dates: every Wednesday in February at 4 p.m.

Duration: approx. 1.5 hours Price per person: free of charge information & registration Tourist office Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5512 2565 www.andelsbuch.at

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Andelsbuch – a look behind the stable door Romantic ramble with lanterns, a look behind the stable door on the farm.

Place: Andelsbuch Meeting point: tourist information office Date: every Tuesday in February at 4.30 p.m.

Duration: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge information & registration Tourist office Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5512 2565 www.andelsbuch.at

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kids’ programme

Watching the farmer at work

Bezau – visit to the petting zoo During a visit to the petting zoo at Kanisfluh adventure inn, kids can not only stroke the animals – they can also help at feeding time.

Place: Bezau Meeting point: fountain on the ­village square (next to Hotel Gams) Date: every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Duration: approx. 1.5 hours Price per person: free of charge information & registration Tourist office Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2295 www.bezau.at/tourismus Damüls – ramble for children The objective of this ramble is to impart a sense of fun in the snow for children (for children from the age of 4).

Place: Damüls Meeting point: at the Gasthaus zum Glöckle, Damüls Date: 7 January to 7 April 2016, every Thursday at 3.30 p.m. (except 21 January) Duration: approx. 1.5 hours Price per person: € 10, free of charge for guests of “BergAktiv” member establishments

information & registration Damüls-Faschina Tourismus T +43 (0)5510 620 www.damuels.travel Egg-Großdorf – Lantern-lit ramble Particularly well suited for families: a romantic ramble into the silence of the night. The light of the lanterns, of the moon and the stars, make the outing into a special experience.

Guide Marianne relates stories on the way.

Place: Egg-Großdorf Meeting point: Falken inn Date: 22 December 2015 until the end of March 2016: every Tuesday at 6 p.m.

Register by 4 p.m. on Monday Length: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge information & registration Tourist office Egg T +43 (0)5512 2426 www.egg-bregenzerwald.com

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53 land & lives ski & board family tips active winter

Package deals on offer: Kids’ Snow in the Bregenzerwald The special offer for kids between 3 and 6 years (born in 2010/2011/2012) incl. a ski pass and a 4-day skiing course for free.

Bookable dates: December 12 – 19, 2015 Jan 16 – 23, 2016 March 5 – 12, 2016 March 12 – 19, 2016 information Bregenzerwald Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 2365 www.bregenzerwald.at

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Mellau – Lantern-lit ramble Winter hiking guide Hans leads participants through the fairytale-like, snow-covered winter landscape at dusk. Hurricane lamps and torches light up the way.

Place: Mellau Meeting point: Tourist office Mellau Date: 17 December 2015 until 10 March 2016: every Thursday at 7.30 p.m.

Length: approx. 1.5 hours Price per person: free of charge information & registration Tourist office Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2203 www.mellau.at

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Au-Schoppernau – lantern-lit ramble

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day trip tips There is plenty for families to do should the weather not play ball: Museums and exhibitions inatura – nature show in Dornbirn Touch, crawl in, try out, play and experiment. information T +43 (0)5572 23235-0 www.inatura.at Schattenburg in Feldkirch The medieval castle depicts life ­during the age of chivalry. information T +43 (0)5522 71982 www.schattenburg.at Toy Museum in Wolfurt The loveliest toys from Granny and Grandpa’s time are lovingly ­presented here. information T +43 (0)650 5000681 www.spielzeugmuseum-wolfurt.at Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen (Germany) The history and technology of aeronautics. information T +49 (0)7541 3801-0 www.zeppelin-museum.de

Indoor swimming pools Swimming pool in Hotel Quellengarten in Lingenau 25 m pool, kids’ pool information T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 www.hotelquellengarten.com Dornbirn municipal pool Family pool with toddler and parent area, tunnel slide, diving platform information T +43 (0)5572 22687 www.dasstadtbad.at Bregenz swimming pool 25 m pool, kids’ pool with slide information T +43 (0)5574 44242-0 www.stadtwerke-bregenz.at Aquaria adventure pool in Oberstaufen (Germany) Family swimming pool with water slides, diving platforms and much more information T +49 (0)8386 9313-0 www.aquaria.de Climbing hall K1 climbing hall, Dornbirn 2,000 m² of climbing area indoors, 400 m² of boulder area, 600 m² ­outside area, climbing courses, taster courses information T +43 (0)5572 394810 www.k1-dornbirn.at

55 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom family tips

There are various ways to explore the winter landscapes. Hiking and tobogganing, for example. Or guided snow shoe tours. By horse and carriage or by husky-pulled sleighs.

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winter hiking

View of the Niedere, close to Andelsbuch

There are plenty activities for those whose winter enjoyment is found away from the piste. Winter hiking paths guide you through picturesque landscapes and to lovely viewpoints.

Tips for winter hikers We have compiled several tips for your hikes through the snow: make sure that you have the right equipment with you, such as adequate, waterproof footwear (e.g. climbing boots) and warm outerwear. ­Further useful items include: headgear, gloves, snow goggles or sunglasses, sun screen. “Shoe chains” prevent slipping on ice and snow: they are available from shoe shops and sport shops. Sticks are also helpful. signposts Winter hiking paths throughout the whole of the Bregenzerwald are clearly signposted in an easily ­visible pink.

notes on safety • Stick to the signposted hiking paths (pink signposts).

• Taking short steps and maintaining an even pace going uphill save your strength, and go easy on the joints going downhill.

• Slightly bending your upper body forwards when going downhill reduces the danger of slipping.

• Take plenty of drinks with you: it is also important to drink even if you are not thirsty.

• Ask your hosts about the weather forecast. Fog and bad weather can set in surprisingly quickly. Turn back in good time rather than risking getting into danger. As a winter hiker (or a summer hiker), you hike at your own risk.

recommended reading “Vorarlberg ­Winterwanderungen”

by Helmut Tiefenthaler, ­published

by Tyrolia Verlag (in German only)

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Difference in altitude: up: 190 m/ down: 190 m Total hiking time: 2.5 hours

family tips

way back, enjoy the fascinating view across the Rhine valley through to the Swiss mountains. On the way back, you pass the sports field in Buch, then take the hiking piste back to the Hotel Linde, which is located somewhat further down. starting point Sulzberg-Schönenbühl, Hotel Linde bus stop culture on the route As the “village on the mountain”, the location of Sulzberg in ­Vorarlberg gives it a very special quality of its own. The parish church in the Empire style is exceptional. It was built in 1828/29 by Alois Negrelli, the designer of the Suez Canal. characteristic Scenic mountain path on mainly ­flattened hiking paths chances to stop off for a drink/food Hotel Linde (Schönenbühl), Sulzberg Ochsen inn, Alpenblick inn and Adler inn in the center of the village

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Negrelli’s church and endless views – Sulzberg mountain path From Vitalhotel Linde, Schönenbühl (820 m), a cleared agricultural path, or, if snow is plentiful, a hiking piste directly from Hotel Linde, leads to the mountain farms in Unterköhler: from there, you take a flattened hiking path to the Oberköhler plot of land at 985 m, then you follow a forest path to the approach road on the sunny side to Sulzberg, which you then follow on past the parish church to Sulzberg ­village square (1,013 m). Once you arrive at the village square, enjoy the endless views across the Bregenzer­wald. On the

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Through the open landscape close to Sulzberg

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winter hiking

Out and about on the Hochhäderich

Across the upland moor – the Hochhäderich circuit The route follows almost completely flattened hiking trails through the mountain valley basin between the Nagelfluh ridges of Hochhäderich and Kojen-Fluh. It takes you from the Hochhäderich car park (1,227 m) across the Austrian-German border, and takes you up to the plateau of the Hörmoos alp (1,270 m). From there, you go downwards for a while to the Hochwies alp (1,230 m), then to the Glutgschwanden alp (1,200 m) and finally back to the starting point via the Moos alp (1,224 m).

starting point Hochhäderich car park culture on the route The cross-border circuit connects the Bregenzerwald with Oberallgäu, i.e. Vorarlberg with Bavaria. Between the approach road and the Moos alp, the blanket of snow conceals the ­Kojenmoos, an upland moor which has been widely preserved and which is protected. The Riefensberg locals used to cut peat here, and ­convey it into the valley via a material ropeway. characteristic Lovely mountain path in the alp area of the Vorderwald chances to stop off for a drink/food Hotel Hochhäderich, Hörmoos alp, Hochwies alp, Glutgschwanden alp, Moos alp

Difference in altitude: up: 70 m/ down: 70 m Total hiking time: 2.5 hours

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59 land & lives ski & board active winter culture dining out well-being

Difference in altitude: up: 110 m/ down: 110 m Total hiking time: approx. 1.5 hours

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starting point Village hall in Hittisau culture on the route With over 100 alps – making it the ­village with the most alps in ­Austria! – Hittisau has a long ­tradition in the art of alpine dairy ­farming, and was one of the first centres for full-fat cheese making in Vorarlberg. The route takes you right past the Alpine Dairy Farming Museum in Hittisau. Also worth a visit are the Women’s Museum in ­Hittisau and the objects on the “Wood + Culture” trail (please contact the tourist information office in ­Hittisau for more details and guided tours). characteristic A gentle walk with lovely views chances to stop off for a drink/food Hittisau

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A circuit with a view – around the village of Hittisau From the centre of the village (790 m), you follow a flattened ­hiking path along the cross-country ski run until you reach the Brand plot of land. Cross the road, where a path takes you up to Bütscheln (860 m). Via scenic hillside locations, you follow a flattened winter hiking path to the part of the village called Korlen. From here, take in the lovely views of Hittisau as you return to the starting point.

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Around the village of Hittisau

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winter hiking

Winter hiking trail in Alberschwende

From the peak to the valley – Brüggele-Alberschwende Take the chair lift up to the Brüggelekopf. From Brüggelekopf mountain station (1,160 m), a partially paved, partially well-trodden winter path takes you down to Kaltenbrunnen (906 m). Here, the path turns northwards into a forest and then winds its way across sunny slopes through the Tannen and Lanzen plots of land back to Alberschwende (722 m).

starting point Alberschwende, valley station of the Brüggelekopf chair lift culture on the route The Lorena pass is an old crossing into the Bregenzerwald. Between the Middle Ages and the mid19th c­ entury, this was the most ­popular connection with the Rhine ­Valley. The scenic sunny slope of ­Kaltenbrunnen was used as a mountain p ­ asture back in the Middle Ages, and has been permanently inhabited by several families since the 18th ­century if not earlier. characteristic Scenic valley hike chances to stop off for a drink/food Brüggele mountain inn, Alpenrose inn (Kaltenbrunnen), Alberschwende

Opening times of Brüggelekopf chair lift: T +43 (0)5579 4323 or 4233 http://lift.alberschwende.info

Difference in altitude: down: 420 m Total hiking time: approx. 3 hours

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starting point Bödele, bus stop culture on the route It was on the Bödele, close to Losen pass, an ancient crossing into the Rhine Valley, that Otto Hämmerle, an industrialist from Dornbirn, erected a countryside summer resort. After the Arlberg, the Bödele is the second birthplace of Vorarlberg skiing (in 1903/1904 a ski jump was built, and the first ski race was held. In 1907, the first ski lift in the world was built here). characteristic Hike into the valley on wide-tracked winter paths chances to stop off for a drink/food Bödele, Lustenau hut, Bregenz hut, Schwarzenberg

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Panorama hike – Bödele-Schwarzenberg From the bus stop on the Bödele (1,140 m), take a short walk along the road to Schwarzenberg where you pick up the winter hiking path.

Cross the pistes of the Hochälpele lift, hike through alpine forests to the Hochälpele alp (1,250 m, extensive views across the Bregenzerwald) and continue to Lustenau hut (1,250 m, chance to take a detour to the Bregenz hut). From Lustenau hut, take a scenic path across the Klausberg mountain pasture down into Schwarzenberg (695 m).

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Bödele close to Schwarzenberg

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Difference in altitude: up: 120 m/ down: 570 m Total hiking time: 3 hours

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Alp landscape, Schetteregg

Where cattle graze in the summer – Schetteregg circuit The entire route follows flattened ­hiking trails. It takes you from ­Schetteregg (1,066 m) to the alpine pasture area of Eggatsberg and ­Hammeratsberg, with the lovely Bregenzerwald mountain p ­ asture huts. You soon arrive at the Untere Falz alp, where you get lovely views of the ­southern mountains of ­Bullerschkopf and ­Winterstaude (1,877 m). The route now takes you up to the Obere Falz alp and ­continues into the Ochsenhof alp area. Your return trip is rewarded with lovely views of Schetteregg and the foreland of the Bregenzerwald.

starting point Schetteregg car park culture on the route Eggatsberg and Hammeratsberg are two cooperative mountain pastures.

They are collective property, whereas the huts are private property. The cattle are brought here for several weeks each spring and autumn, the milk is processed into butter and cheese in the collective’s own dairy.

During the summer, the pastures are mowed. The Falz alps are extensive dairy alps. characteristic Varied circuit through the peaceful mountain pasture and alp area chances to stop off for a drink/food Schetteregg, “Leo’s hut”

Difference in altitude: up: 180 m/ down: 180 m Total hiking time: 2.5 hours

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Difference in altitude: up: 200 m/ down: 200 m Total hiking time: from Krähenberg car park 3.5 hours, from the centre of Sibratsgfäll 4.5 hours

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starting point Car park at Krähenberg ski lift culture on the route Schönenbach is one of the loveliest, largest mountain pasture settlements in the whole of the Bregenzerwald.

It was mentioned for the first time in 1491, comprises over 25 huts and one chapel. Cattle graze on the ­mountain pasture before and after the alp period. During the summer, the pastures are mowed. In the spring and autumn, the milk is processed into butter and cheese in a collective alpine dairy. characteristic Wild and romantic trail through the Subersach gorge chances to stop off for a drink/food Sibratsgfäll, Bilgeri’s in Krähenberg, Egender inn, Schönenbach

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To the loveliest mountain pasture – Sibratsgfäll-Schönenbach If you take the bus, you must first take the road or follow the ­flattened winter hiking path down to the car park in Krähenberg (approx.

30 ­minutes). From the Krähenberg car park, the road descends steeply to Bilgeri’s snack bar in Krähenberg.

The flattened winter path starts here (keep on the cross-country ski run). ­Crossing a narrow gorge with impressive views down to the ­Subersach is a lovely experience.

The valley soon reveals itself, and the beautifully located mountain pasture ­settlement of Schönenbach (1,025 m) is in front of you.

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Mountain pasture settlement, Schönenbach

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Chapel in the mountain pasture settlement of Boden, close to Au

Walk up, toboggan down – Bergkristall hut in Au From Au (800 m), a perfectly ­prepared path takes you along the northern edge of the Lug, mainly through a forest, up into the ­Dürrenbachtal to the idyllically located Boden mountain pasture.

This is also the location of the Bergkristall hut located at an altitude of over 1,200 m. This tranquil, beautiful mountain valley is surrounded by the impressive, steeply rising rock massifs of the Zitterklapfenstock (2,403 m). You descend the same way.

When the conditions are right, it is a good idea to take along a sledge for the descent into the valley.

starting point Au, village hall culture on the route The Boden mountain pasture, at an altitude of 1,200 m, is a rural ­settlement with a chapel. The land is ­collective property, whereas the huts are private property. This is where the farmers come with their cattle for several weeks before and after the summer. The Boden mountain ­pasture is one of the largest alpine dairy pastures in the Bregenzerwald. characteristic Rewarding hike in a tranquil, remote mountain valley chances to stop off for a drink/food Au, Bergkristall hut (closed on Mondays) Please contact the tourist i­ nformation office in Au-Schoppernau for the conditions for sledging.

T +43 (0)5515 2288

Difference in altitude: up: 420 m/ down: 420 m Total hiking time: 3.5 hours

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starting point Tourist office Damüls culture on the route Damüls is one of the first ­documented Walser settlements in ­Vorarlberg (enfeoffment with Uga alp in 1313, and with “Tamülls” alp in 1326). There is documentary evidence of its own parish church dating back to 1382. The late Gothic church (1484) has a remarkable interior such as frescoes from around 1490. characteristic A marvellous mountain circuit at an altitude of over 1,400 m with a unique view of the mountains chances to stop off for a drink/food Damüls, Jägerstüble, Oberdamüls

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On ancient Walser trails – the Damüls alpine circuit From Damüls (1,425 m), you f­ ollow the path towards Oberdamüls and after the Gasthaus zum Glöckle ­continue on the fully prepared ­valley path next to the cross-country ski run as far as the Unterdamüls alp (1,486 m). From there, a steep ascent to the Jägerstüble (1,614 m) awaits.

From here, a mountain path takes you up to an altitude of approx.

1,700 m (views as far as the Rätikon), past the Oberdamüls alp (1,667 m) and to Oberdamüls. From Hotel Alpenstern, you walk along the road back to where you started.

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Winter hiking in Damüls, Stofel

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Difference in altitude: up: 290 m/ down: 290 m Total hiking time: approx. 3 hours

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Körbersee panorama

To the hotel at the lake – Hochtannberg pass-Körbersee From the Hochtannberg pass (1,676 m), you follow the hiking path close to the road (take the red path for the circuit!), pass the K ­ örber cross and take a considerable hike up to the Witelesattel (1,750 m) and then down to the Hotel Körbersee (1,665 m). If the snow conditions are good, it is worth following this up by taking another walk around the ­frozen Körbersee. If you take the right piste on the way back too, you will enjoy a circuit via various paths.

starting point Hochtannberg pass, bus stop characteristic Gentle ramble at altitudes above 1,600 m on prepared hiking paths chances to stop off for a drink/food Valley station of the Saloberkopf cable car, Hotel Körbersee

Difference in altitude: up: 90 m/ down: 90 m Total hiking time: approx. 2 hours

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Bizau – Winter landscapes Guide Konrad Feurstein hikes through the countryside in Bizau, pointing out special insights and views.

Place: Bizau Meeting point: village square Date: 28 December 2015 until 21 March 2016: every Monday at 1.30 p.m.

Length: approx. 3 hours Price per person: free information & registration Konrad Feurstein T +43 (0)664 6324537, www.bizau.at

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Au-Schoppernau – Diedamskopf tour The cable car takes you to the mountain station, from where you walk downhill in snow shoes to Diedams­sattel, continue through the lovely Haldental, and walk uphill via the Neuhornbachjoch to the Neuhornbachhaus. Back in the valley, p ­ articipants race down the longest natural toboggan run in the ­Bregenzerwald (5 km).

Place: Au-Schoppernau Diedamskopf Meeting point: Au-Schoppernau snow sports school, next to the valley station of the cable car Date: 14 Dezember 2015 until 3 April 2016: every Wed or Thur at 9.30 a.m.

Length: approx. 6 hours incl. breaks Price per person: from € 70 ­depending on the number of participants (incl. cable car ticket, snow shoes and toboggan).

Minimum number of participants: 5 information & registration Snow sports school Au-Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2133 www.schneesportschule-bregenzer­ wald.at

Bezau – Baumgarten high-altitude hike The Bezau cable car takes you to the mountain station: from there, Pius takes you to the Niedere Höhe.

Place: Bezau Meeting point: Valley station of Bezau cable car Date: every Friday at 10 a.m.

Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 10 including the use of snow shoes, excluding return trip by Bezau cable car information & registration Tourist office Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2295 www.bezau.at/tourismus

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In many towns and villages, hiking and mountain guides take guests on snow-shoe tours.

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Out and about with the experts

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snow-shoe hikes Egg-Schetteregg – mountain pasture landscape The guided hike commences in Schetteregg, which lies in a tranquil side valley. The hike takes you to two mountain pasture settlements. Farmers and their cattle spend the spring and the autumn in the simple wooden huts. The milk is processed into butter and cheese in a collective alpine dairy.

Place: Egg-Schetteregg Meeting point: sport rental shop Waldner Schetteregg Date: End of December and January: every Friday at 11.30 a.m., February and March: every Friday at 10.30 a.m.

Register by Thursday at 4 p.m.

Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 15 (including snow shoe rental) information & registration Tourist office Egg T +43 (0)5512 2426 www.egg-bregenzerwald.com Hittisau – snow shoe tour by the light of the full moon in the Lecknertal Out and about on snow shoes by the light of the full moon in the Leckner­ tal – suitable for the moonstruck not wishing to spend such a night at home.

Place: Hittisau Meeting point: Village hall, Hittisau Date: 23 January, 22 February, 23 March 2016, at 8 p.m.

Duration: approx. 1.5 – 2 hours Price per person: € 20 (including snow shoes, sticks) information & registration Helga Rädler T +43 (0)664 5793 566 www.kulturinbewegung.at

Hittisau – snow-shoe hike into the sunset Guided tour into the snow-covered landscape.

Place: Hittisau Meeting point: Hittisau village hall Dates: December to April Every Monday between 2.30 and 4 p.m.

Return between 5 and 7 p.m.

Price per person: € 25 information & registration Christoph Oberhauser T +43 (0)664 7670520 www.bewegend.com Mellau – romance and relaxation The easy snow-shoe hike takes you from the mountain station of ­Mellau cable car to Kanis alp (1,463 m), which is located in an idyllic mountain valley.

Place: Mellau Meeting point: office of Mellau ski school Date: 14 December 2015 until 10 April 2016; daily, upon request Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 35, including equipment, excluding return trip.

Minimum number of participants: 3 information & registration Mellau ski and snowboard school T +43 (0)664 3946253 www.skischule-mellau.at Schröcken – evening hike, the quiet way This tour takes you off the beaten track, through unspoilt nature on the Hochtannberg.

Place: Schröcken Meeting point: 5 p.m. Hotel Mohnenfluh Date: every Tuesday Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 13 Minimum number of participants: 4 information & registration Alpinschule Schröcken, Josef Staggl T +43 (0)664 7575500 www.alpinschule-schroecken.at

snow-shoe hikes

ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter culture dining out well-being

Schwarzenberg – snow-shoe hiking in the nature reserve Tour guide Daniel takes his guests through the nature reserve “Fohramoos” at the Bödele – an extensively intact upland moor featuring bog forests. Upon request, he gladly c­ ombines the snow-shoe tour with a stop for refreshments in a skiing hut on the Bödele.

Minimum number of participants: 4 Place: Bödele/Schwarzenberg Meeting point: Schwarzenberg skiing school, Weißtanne 375 Time: 9 a.m. every W ­ ednesday between early December and midMarch, Further dates available on request Duration: approx. 2.5 hours Price per person: € 19 (including snow shoes) information & registration Register the day before until 4 p.m.

Skischule Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)664 2214075 www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at

Sulzberg – snow shoe and orientation Orienteering hike across forest paths and hollow-ways through the ­forest and across meadows. Following a ­coloured map to a scale of 1:2500 resembling an aerial photo, the guests make their way to the forestry workers’ hut.

Place: Sulzberg Meeting point: cross-country biathlon school, Nordic Sport Park Dates: 29 December 2015 and 19 ­January 2016 at 10 a.m.

Further dates available on request.

Minimum number of participants: 4 Duration: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 25 plus rented equipment information and booking Book by 4 p.m. the day before Ingrid Fink-Nöckler Cross-country biathlon school T +43 (0)664 5323102 www.langlaufschule-bregenzerwald.at

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Schröcken – to the loveliest destinations in the area of Hochtannberg Off the beaten track, the tour takes you at a leisurely pace through the winter landscape.

Place: Schröcken Meeting point: Salober bus stop Dates: December 2015 to March 2016, every Thursday, upon prior booking only Duration: approx. 2.5 hours Minimum number of participants: 6 Price per person: € 24 including snow shoes and safety equipment, avalanche search equipment information & registration Alpinschule Schröcken, Josef Staggl T + 43 (0)664 7575500 oder +43 (0)664 2525200 www.alpinschule-schroecken.at

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horse and carriage rides

Out and about on the Hochhäderich

Tucked up warm in a blanket and pulled by powerful horses: aboard a horse and carriage, this is the ­particularly elegant way to glide through the winter landscape.

This is a delight offered by several ­Bregenzerwald coachmen.

Langenegg Riding and driving association, T +43 (0)664 3746501

Andelsbuch Elmar Metzler, T +43 (0)664 1032778

Mellau Raimund Dietrich, T +43 (0)5518 2164 Gotthard Simma, T +43 (0)664 1155766 Josef Berbig, T +43 (0)5518 2336

Au-Schoppernau Mathias Erath, T +43 (0)5515 2298 Franz-Josef Dünser, T +43 (0)5515 2295 Jakob Rusch, T +43 (0)5515 2532 Jakob Lingg, T +43 (0)5515 2928 Bezau Christoph Moosbrugger, T +43 (0)5514 2901 Damüls Alfons Bischof, T +43 (0)664 3382257

Lingenau Wendelin Stöckler, T +43 (0)664 8690126

Riefensberg Steinhauser family, T +43 (0)664 4122915 Schwarzenberg Josef Schneider, T +43 (0)5512 4382 Krumbach Klaus Mennel, T +43 (0)664 1312345

Sulzberg Friesenhof Blank, T +43 (0)664 4411380 Egg-Schetteregg Schneider family, T +43 (0)664 3744794 Baldauf family, T +43 (0) 664 9319896 Hittisau Michael Schelling, T +43 (0)664 3037239

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Husky trail Following the welcoming of the ­huskies, the sledges are divided up, the dogs are harnessed and the ­commands for the wolves are learned. After a short trial run, off you go into the terrain.

Trails: Körbersee, Jägeralpe, Hochtannberg (Warth-Schröcken); Gräsalp, Grunholz (Au-Schoppernau) Duration: approx. 1.5 to 4 hours, depending on the trail Prerequisite: sporting ability of the mushers and a great love of dogs Price: from € 220 for two persons information & registration Husky & Co, Marc Van Landeghem T +43 (0)664 2407422 www.huskytouren.at

Building an igloo Armed with saws and shovels, guests try to copy the Inuits and build a winter-proof dwelling for the night.

Dates: by agreement Meeting point: 10 a.m., Hittisau ­village hall Return: 5 p.m., or at around 10 a.m. the next day if the night is spent in the igloo Price per person: € 45, € 55 if the night is spent in the igloo information & registration Christoph Oberhauser T +43 (0)664 7670520 www.bewegend.com

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Travel through the wintry landscape on a husky-drawn sleigh – an ­adventure for the dog and budding musher alike.

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Dog sleigh tours in Warth-Schröcken

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tobogganing

Tobogganing - enjoyment for everybody

It is not only children that take great pleasure in visiting the natural ­toboggan runs that Bregenzerwald has to offer! Merry groups steering their toboggans into the valley are particularly abundant in the evening.

Alberschwende ** Brüggelekopf (accessible by chair lift) Length: 4 km Toboggan rental: Brüggelekopf chair lift T +43 (0)5579 4323 www.lift.alberschwende.net Au-Schoppernau * Snow-tubing run at Alpen-Hotel Post in Au with moving walkway Snow tubing rental: Tourist office Au T +43 (0)5515 2288 * Toboggan lift Grunholz, Au Length: 650 m On special toboggans which can be rented at the valley station, you take the ski tow up the mountain. ­Tobogganing in the evening: Wednesday and Friday, 7 to 10 p.m. Toboggan rental at the Grunholz lift.

* Lebernau pasture, Au Length: 500 m * Lisse, Au Length: 750 m ** Hinterargenzipfel, Au Length: 870 m ** Godlachen, Au Length: 2.9 km ** Gschwend, Schoppernau Length: 1.5 km *** Neuhornbach, Schoppernau Length: 5 km Toboggan rental: • Sport Fuchs, Au, T +43 (0)5515 2315 www.sportfuchs.com • Sport Gorbach, Au T +43 (0)5515 4141-1, www.gorbach.at • Sport Matt, Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4120, www.matt.at Damüls *** Uga (ascent by the Uga Express) Illuminated toboggan run, W ­ ednesday and Friday 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. Ascents are not covered by the 3-valley pass.

Length: 2.5 km Toboggan rental: Sport Madlener, T +43 (0)5510 391 www.sport-madlener.at

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Key: * gentle, for children ** medium, for families *** strenuous, for adults

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Sibratsgfäll ** Krähenberg toboggan run, illuminated Friday and Saturday 7 until 10 p.m. ;

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Riefensberg *** Steinernes Tor Length: 1,000 m Toboggan rental: Alois Berkmann, T +43(0)5513 8238

Warth-Schröcken ** „von der Höhi“ Illuminated toboggan run daily until 10 p.m. 2x a week toboggan party, ascent by tractor, hot mulled wine and alcohol-free punch for the kids. Toboggans are provided. Start: 8 p.m. Larger groups are requested to book.

Length: 700 m Toboggan rental Sport-Knitel, T +43 (0)5583 3612 ** Toboggan run Schmitte-Schröcken Toboggan run open daily. Toboggan parties are possible, depending on the weather. Upon request, a shuttle to the starting line is available.

Length: 1.4 km Sledge rental, registration for groups: Herbert Ritter, T +43 (0) 664 3411540

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Sulzberg * village lift Length: 150 m Toboggan rental: Nordic Sport Park, T + 43 (0)5516 2213

Mellau * Dosegg Illuminated toboggan run, on Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat from 6 p.m.

Mulled wine, tea and snacks are served in the “Rodelhüsle” below the ­toboggan run.

Length: 2 km, illuminated over 800 m Toboggan rental: Rodelhüsle, Sport Natter, T +43 (0)5518 2262, www.sportnatter.com

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Bizau * Escha Length: 1.2 km The bottom section of the toboggan run is illuminated every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday until 9 p.m.

Toboggan rental: Sport Bertsch, T +43 (0)5514 4127

Upon request: illumination of the toboggan run for groups including outside of the usual operating times.

Length: 800 m Toboggan rental: Hubert Nussbaumer, T +43 (0)664 5251866

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Bezau * Gschwend Illuminated toboggan run daily until 11 p.m.

Length: 1.7 km Toboggan rental: Pius Feurstein, T +43 (0)664 1344358 ** Baumgarten-Sonderdach (ascent by cable car) Length: 3 km Toboggan rental: Bezau cable car , T +43 (0)5514 2254

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Schwarzenberg ** Angelika-Höhe I Length: 400 m * Angelika-Höhe II Length: 100 m Toboggan rental: Bergsport Fink, Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2918, www.bergfink.at

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paragliding

Tandem flight

The Bregenzerwald flying area (­Niedere close to Bezau-Andelsbuch and Diedamskopf close to Au-­ Schoppernau) is well-known for its laminar upwind and its pleasant thermal conditions.

The special thing about it is that an increasing number of flight/training areas can be offered within 10 km with each (wind) d ­ irection. The proximity and the easy accessibility of both flying areas ensure that training is both flexible and fast. On the ­Diedamskopf, you can take off towards the southerly, south-easterly and easterly directions across alpine, steep terrain.

From the approx. 10° in the pull-up area, the take-off area continually passes into a steep slope. Two take-off ramps are available for hang-gliders.

Also on offer: tandem flights. information & lessons Bregenzerwald flying school Jodok Moosbrugger T +43 (0)5514 3177 www.gleitschirmschule.at

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The reflective Advent season in 足Schwarzenberg, concerts, exhibitions and music salons in the hotels: the calendar of events promises an exciting mix of styles, even in the winter.

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culture

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everyday culture

The cheese-makers cast a critical eye

Anyone who allows himself the ­pleasure of watching cheese being made here – such as in S­ choppernau alpine dairy – can understand how close the ties are between rural ­activities and everyday culture.

Alpine dairy The introduction of hard cheese ­making in the middle of the 18th ­century not only opened up new sources of income, it also changed the farmers. Initial failures are evidence of how much sweat and tears went into complying with the hygiene standards, into working out the complex production stages and the precise time standards. The alpine dairyman (hard cheese and lace → page 7) became a highly-­ reputable skilled worker with extensive expertise whose circumstances demanded him to be what we these days call somewhat interdisciplinary. For Franz Michael Felder, the poet from S ­ choppernau, he is “a jack-of-all-trades: shoe mender, vet, ­launderer, carpenter, tailor, ­philosopher and much more”. A ­century earlier, the valley community had already proven that its

people knew how to help themselves in the face of adversity: in the form of the Au Guild, a new branch of industry was created from n ­ othing: architecture and the building trade.

What: from nothing? Even though the background to this movement is unknown, one thing is for sure: it was born from necessity, and the resulting talent shown by the ­farmers of helping themselves.

And the architects’ contribution? ­Artistic talent (→ page 78) practiced for centuries.

Farmers’ palace and parlour However, none of the large buildings actually stand in the ­Bregenzerwald itself: they are constructed “­outside”: “inside” keeps house, tries to increase affluence and displays it with a reserved pride. When, in the early 19th century, agriculture started to prosper – especially in the Vorder- and Mittelwald – new farmhouses were built which were soon known as farmers’ palaces and which, according to the r­ elevant ­literature, were amongst the most magnificent in the whole of the alpine region. The log cabin was

As a rule, these skills are practiced at home, with the individual ­members committed to the family. One is ­surrounded by one’s own craftsmanship. This is also true of the clothing. The local costume stands out amongst all those from the alpine region: ornate, strict, proud – the “Juppe” is the first thing you notice.

A four metre-long black piece of cloth is folded into numerous pleats, smoothed in several stages – this is the skirt. It is decorated only with one bright blue band. Then there are the half a dozen different pieces of headgear. The artistically embroidered blouse, which is a good indicator of social standing, is not the end of the magic. Inspired by fashion worn by 18th century courtiers in Spain, the costume still demands poise of the wearer today.

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The magic becomes even more ­physical when it comes to cooking and eating. Whatever is produced by the soil and the garden is cultivated: the cheese from the largest silage-free dairy region, for example, is unique. And you can taste the meaning of refinement when you compare local cheese “knöpfle” with cheese “spätzle” from other regions.

It is hardly surprising then that the Bregenzerwald has, by far, the most “chef’s hats” (culinary distinction) of all regions far and wide. Or that here, where one in three is employed as a craftsman, this refined everyday ­culture is a fixed source of income.

(KäseStrasse → page 88).

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Decoration and Taste And then there were the covers and textiles: textile processing – first of all weaving, followed from around 1760 by embroidery and lace-making for manufacturers from St. ­Gallen – soon proved so lucrative that farming was sometimes neglected: a repeated upturn was experienced from 1865 following the introduction of the “Parisian machine”. This can still be felt today: there is something ­missing in a Bregenzerwald parlour without the white, finely crocheted net curtains.

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shingled, windows and doors were finely decorated in line with the ­Biedermeier period: more than anything else, however, people treated themselves to a panelled parlour, nice and bright thanks to large ­windows, cosy thanks to the tiled stove and special pieces of furniture.

The sofa was one such piece: around the middle of the century, manufacture of this piece exploded, only to dwindle in a few decades: usually manufactured in the evening at home by “laymen”, today they are popular collector’s items (Werkraum → page 82). The stoves, too, were ­special: the artistic tiles came mainly from local potters whose trade flourished during this century.

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building culture

Modernism and tradition

If a ranking of the most s­ ignificant architectural regions in the world were to be drawn up today, V ­ orarlberg would, without a doubt, be in the top ten. However, this doesn’t just mean the significance of the individual constructions, but also their number and density.

This phenomenon is ­comparatively new. Whilst it is true that ­Vorarlberg’s baroque master builders are a fixed feature in specialist literature, whenever the Vorarlberg school of architecture or architects are mentioned, they mean the generation born since 1950 which has been influencing the architecture here for about the past 30 years. Without counting the handful of pioneers that preceded them, this amounts to over 60 ­people: considering the 370,000 inhabitants, this is an amazing number. Such a ratio is only possible in a region where architecture is appreciated, where one in four houses is designed by architects.

From construction artists to architects However, this is the result, rather than the explanation, of a development. “Construction artists” is what the players called themselves at the start since, in the face of a v ­ ehement conflict with the “establishment” of the building industry and chamber, the title “architect” was refused.

According to one of the pioneers, public appearances, the joining of forces and dialogue were important right from the start. The ideal founded in terms of social p ­ olicy – social, affordable, sustainable, regional – promoted the solidarity of a generation that was searching for new life forms and other ways of cultural expression, that was resisting the sell-out of their land, and that found expression in building. The new type of architecture started off in residential buildings – by way of examining already existing buildings or as a new structure, often for residential groups – and grew into a clear sign of the cultural restoration which soon extended to the economic elite and the public sector. However, as important as this environment was, there are always people who take

building culture

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Worth a visit It is hard to list remarkable buildings, since many of them are p ­ rivate residential buildings which are not accessible. However, a walk through H ­ ittisau or Schwarzenberg for e ­ xample, can satisfy your curiosity. The village of Bizau is ­particularly suitable for such a walk: it boasts residential buildings from all epochs, estates, buildings for industrial, e ­ ducational and local authority ­purposes, as well as inns: the ensemble was awarded the ArGeAlp prize.

(Umgang Bregenzerwald → page 80).

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BUS:STOP Krumbach The town of Krumbach has invited seven renowned architects from around the world to design seven bus stops – known in the local ­dialect as “Wartehüsle”.

The intention behind the new bus stations is not only to set new trends in the Bregenzerwald ­architecture scene – cooperation with the international architects is also meant to contribute towards economic and cultural exchange, and to provide all those involved with new points of view. information www.kulturkrumbach.at

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Landscape and wooden buildings Located somewhat off the beaten track, the Bregenzerwald was part of this development, although in a way of its own. In contrast to the densely populated, industrial and commercial Rhine Valley with its mainly suburban structure, landscape, nature and rural craftsmanship culture is of great importance in the ­Bregenzerwald.

Outside of the Bregenzerwald, groups of houses and farms dominate, whereas inside the ­Bregenzerwald it is the single-ridge house ( farmers’ ­palace and parlour → page 76), ­outside of the ­Bregenzerwald it is households which commission the building, whereas inside the ­Bregenzerwald it is the young craftsmen. The ­Bregenzerwälder have a greater ­affinity for craftsmanship in general (Werkraum → page 82): for example, it is in the carpentry trade that the Kaufmann family of architects has its roots. While, following the initial years, the formal experiment is in demand outside, the tendency towards stringency and sobriety increases inside. Rural pragmatism and the discipline of construction with timber, which is now state-of-the-art, appears to be more effective here. Recently, examining the old buildings is also gaining in importance. Above all, however, the new buildings fit in with the surrounding landscape with regard to material, size and proportion. Is it this attitude that shies at the eccentric and that searches for the typical rather than the unique which guarantees this way of building a wide basis?

In any case, good carpentry firms now build residential buildings which architects in other places wouldn’t be capable of building: it is these houses which graze casually in the field like the c­ attle which are as typical of the region as the farmhouses and the churches.

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responsibility, and Eberle, Gnaiger, Dietrich, Kaufmann and Ritsch have long since become international stars with chairs at renowned universities.

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“bregenzerwald umgang” – 12 village walks

Information column of the “Umgang Bregenzerwald”

The way people in the Bregenzerwald deal with their environment is the subject of specially marked paths through the villages of the region.

Take these paths and, by observing selected objects, experience how ­people here have shaped their lives, and continue to shape them.

“Umgang Bregenzerwald” – 12 village walks The “Umgang Bregenzerwald” walks communicate the villages’ typical visual style through the ages. They can be discovered in the landscape, on houses, public buildings and ­commercial buildings as well as on everyday objects.

D

Lindau Bod Lak

ens

ee e Co nsta

nce

Sulzberg Riefensberg

Bregenz Doren

Krumbach

Langenegg

Hittisau

Alberschwende Egg

Lingenau

CH Dornbirn

Sibratsgfäll

Schwarzenberg

Andelsbuch Bezau

Reuthe Mellau

Bizau Schnepfau Au Br

Damüls

Schoppernau eg

en

ze

ra

ch

Warth Schröcken

“bregenzerwald umgang” – 12 village walks

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“Umgang Bregenzerwald” in the winter It is also possible to take these walks in the winter (cleared paths, winter hiking paths): Schoppernau, Mellau, Bizau, Andelsbuch, Hittisau, Krumbach These walks are only partially accessible in the winter. Please contact the tourist information office or your host for information about variants which are possible in the winter: Au, Bezau-Reuthe, Schwarzenberg, Egg, Lingenau, Langenegg information www.bregenzerwald.at

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On each walk, around 10 information columns draw attention to a building, to the special features of the cultural landscape, to artisanal or ecological details, to facets of artistic, culinary or touristic works.

Details of the objects are described in an ­accompanying folder.

Furthermore, a book on the subject containing the background histories to the way of life in the Bregenzerwald is available. The information media are available from any one of the tourist information offices and from Bregenzerwald Tourismus.

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Each of the “Umgang ­Bregenzerwald” walks takes you between 1.5 and 4 hours. The 12 Bregenzerwald ­villages – Au, Schoppernau, ­Mellau, Bizau, Bezau-Reuthe, Andelsbuch, Schwarzenberg, Egg, Lingenau, ­Langenegg, Hittisau and Krumbach – will reveal completely new aspects.

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“Umgang Bregenzerwald” information media

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werkraum bregenzerwald

Werkraum Haus in Andelsbuch

The culture of building and living is everywhere you look in the Bregenzerwald. The locals have been appreciating the artisan production methods employed in small and medium-sized enterprises since way back when. Reliability, sound finishing and a good design mean that craftsmanship and trade are the largest employers in the Bregenzerwald.

Nowhere else in Europe will you find such a comparable density of workshops. Work performed in the Werk­ raum has an international presence, and the innovative craftspeople are in demand both at home and abroad.

The Handwerk+Form competition, held every three years for over 25 years now, shows the public how experts from all areas of design cooperate with craftsmen from the Bregenzerwald in order to develop useful objects which do justice to their material and shape.

The latest developments arising from this competition have been on view in the Werkraum Haus since 2015.

A house dedicated to craftsmanship The building designed by Peter Zumthor, the internationally renowned architect with an

outstanding affiliation with craftsmanship, was opened in 2013. His visionary design for the Werkraum Haus is based on two basic ideas: on the one hand, the building serves as a meeting place. On the other hand, it is a large showcase for the culture of craftsmanship in the Bregenzerwald.

This idea finds expression in a protruding roof made from wood and a façade made from glass. There is no distinction between inside and outside – the landscape flows through the building. In the shop windows works of Werkraum members are exhibited all year round. House builders, architects and interested parties get impressions and individual counsel concerning the works of the craftmen of the Werkraum association.

An open and flexible hall of 700 m² offers room for exhibitions, events, a shop and a restaurant.

Bregenzerwald Werkraum Since its establishment in 1999, the Bregenzerwald Werkraum, organised as an association, has been providing a platform for innovative craftsmanship in the Bregenzerwald. It ­currently comprises 85 innovative firms, mainly

werkraum bregenzerwald

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Werkraum Haus in Andelsbuch The Werkraum Haus is a platform for exhibitions and information regarding the culture of craftsmanship in the Bregenzerwald. The advantages of products made by craftsmen are communicated to the visitor.

Services: special exhibitions, ­presentations of products by ­members of the Werkraum, advice on the member enterprises, sale of regionally produced crafts in the Werkraum shop, training and seminars opening times Tue – Sat 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.

The association’s restaurant keeps the same opening times as the Werkraum. admission €5 information & booking Werkraum, T +43 (0)5512 26386 www.werkraum.at

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Qualities of craftsmanship Work on site, consideration of special cases, direct commissioning, closeness to customers and flexibility are quality standards of this craftsmanship; specialised skills and a ­creative instinct are par for the course, acquired in a highly developed culture of craftsmanship, naturally handed down from generation to generation. This store of knowledge and skills is maintained and continually extended: raw materials – such as the silver fir – are cultivated to their most exquisite form, small batches in the field of furniture construction open up new markets, the pre-production of construction elements, e.g. in the field of hotel construction, is making progress. The latest manufacturing technologies such as CAM and CNC have been introduced; the finish of coatings, for instance, has been expanded – craftsmanship meets engineering.

Hence, it comes as no surprise that you can find kitchens from Hittisau in Athens, that the furnishings of a hall of residence in Massachusetts come from Schwarzenberg or that, in 2008, a living unit from Reuthe was visible on the roof of the MoMA in New York.

Public relations work, advertising, marketing – the Werkraum uses those advantages which industry

has over trade. Yet without a huge budget: instead, it has capital ­typical to ­craftsmen – brains and skills, a ­network, links. And so ­exhibitions put on by the Werkraum have been presented to an interested p ­ ublic in Vienna, Munich and Paris, for ­example. A regular topic in the ­specialist press, the Werkraum has been described as a “landscape of knowledge”. Yet that is not all: the Werkraum has always been involved at local level, such as in t­ raining, in schools, in specific ­construction projects, in dealing with historical ­building stock. It is a ­contribution towards the structural change of the region, and an example of social competence.

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involved in wood processing, such as joiners and carpenters, but there is also a handful of locksmiths, stonemasons, bricklayers, ­plumbers, ­electricians, lighting producers, ­painters, upholsterers, tailors and cobblers, through to coopers and feltworkers. Most of the firms have up to around five employees, some of them are one-man workshops, and only a few have ten or more employees.

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cabaret & village culture

Listed village square in Schwarzenberg

The cultural calendar also has plenty to offer during the winter: Advent in Schwarzenberg is particularly atmospheric. Music and cabaret are staged.

Schwarzenberg Advent 22 November – 20 December 2015 The atmospheric “Schwarzenberg Advent” enriches the Advent period with cultural and culinary evenings.

Highlights: 22 November Concert by the Musikverein Schwarzenberg 27 – 28 November Christmas market 29 November Concert by the Wiener Streichersolisten 3 December ÜÜ – music with Alfred Vogel and Norbert Mayer 6 December Reading with Julia Stemberger 8 December Concert by Bradlberg Musig 13 December Reading with Erika Pluhar 19 December Lantern-lit ramble with musical accompaniment 20 December Church organ concert information Tourist office Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 3570 www.schwarzenberg.at

Bahnhof Andelsbuch cultural society Culture is a regular visitor to the “­bahnhof”, the converted imperial and royal station in Andelsbuch from the abandoned Wälderbahn. It hosts over 50 events every year. Exhibitions, lectures and discussions, fairy story readings, lieder evenings and concerts attract locals as well as visitors from Switzerland, Germany and Liechtenstein to the bahnhof events location. It is the objective of those running the bahnhof to bring global culture to the Bregenzerwald and to show the world which culture thrives in these parts. This may take the form of art by young avant-gardists or the artistic craftsmanship of older people from the Bregenzerwald. The bahnhof enjoys an international reputation amongst musicians, music agencies and the media alike. Moreover, it is the birthplace of the most exciting new band in Austria at the moment – the Holstuanarmusigbigbandclub (HMBC). information Kulturverein bahnhof T +43 (0)664 2507789 www.bahnhof.cc

culture in hotels and inns

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Wälderness in Hotel Hirschen in Schwarzenberg Once upon a time, it was the “fiveo’clock-tea” which offered refined entertainment after a day on the slopes: now it is the music salons held in the evening. Under the motto “Wälderness”, selected jazz, blues, rock and new folk music ensembles – all of which have a touch of inside tip about them – play in the Hotel Hirschen in Schwarzenberg every Thursday (between January and March). information Hotel Gasthof Hirschen T +43 (0)5512 2944 www.hirschenschwarzenberg.at www.waelderness.at

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Literature salon in Hotel Krone in Hittisau The “Literature on Saturday Afternoon” cycle is a joint event hosted by Ensemble 89 Hittisau and Gasthof Krone. information & dates Hotel Gasthof Krone T +43 (0)5513 6201 www.krone-hittisau.at

Hans Bach moving pictures The vague, constant purring of the 35-mm projector, the massive, heavy rolls of film, the minor ­mishaps putting in the next reel of film, and an audience which couldn’t be more different if it tried – this and much more are conjured up on the first Sunday of every month at the cinema evening in the Jöslar – ­presented by Hans Bach moving pictures. Interested cineastes sit wherever they can find a place – a cinema seat, a chair or a bar stool – and indulge in best of cinematic fare.

And drinks, of course.

Date: the first Sunday of every month, 8 p.m. information Jöslar inn, Andelsbuch www.jöslar.at www.hansbach.at T +43 (0)5512 2312

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Several hotels and inns in the ­Bregenzerwald extend a warm ­invitation to participate in ­entertaining cultural activities.

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Wälderness – Hirschen’s exquisite music salon

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exhibitions & museums Insights into the history, lifestyle and creative activity are provided by lively museums and exhibitions.

Kulisse Pfarrhof in Damüls 100 years of skiing history and tourism in Damüls: “Woods. Walsers.

Winter sport” exhibition opening times 15 December 2015 to 8 April 2015 Tue and Fri 3 to 6 p.m.

Groups upon request information Tourist office Damüls T +43 (0)5510 620-0 www.damuels.travel Franz Michael Felder Museum Schoppernau Franz Michael Felder was a farmer, writer and social reformer and is an important historical figure from the Bregenzerwald. The exhibition is an exploration of his life, displaying ­original documents, quotations and pictures, and featuring audio points. opening times Mon 4 – 6 p.m., Thu 9 – 11 a.m., Fri 5 – 7 p.m., Sun 9.30 – 11.30 a.m. information Tourist office Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2495 www.au-schoppernau.at Bezau local history museum A typical residential building, maintained in its original style. It holds national costumes, offers insight into the style of home furnishing in days gone by, and displays a valuable collection of sacral art. opening times with guided tours Tue 2 p.m. further guided tours upon reguest T +43 (0)664 73513036 information Bezau Tourismus, T +43 (0)5514 2295

Women’s Museum Hittisau “I, on the summit. A history of women in the Alps” The topic of “women and the mountains” is being documented and communicated in an exhibition for the very first time. opening times Thur, 2 – 5 p.m., Fri, Sat, Sun 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 2 – 5 p.m., Mondays, 6 p.m. guided tour open to the public (no reservations required) as well as ­following prior appointment.

T +43 (0)664 88431964 T +43 (0)5513 620930 information & guided tours T +43 (0)5513 6209-30 www.frauenmuseum.at Angelika Kauffmann Museum Schwarzenberg Fascination and madness – Schwarzenberg between 1914 and 1918 The exhibition highlights how the life of the Schwarzenberg locals changed dramatically during the First World War. This is exhibited in numerous forces letters, war chronicles, news­ paper articles and official documents. “hüslo, bopplo, spielo” – children’s toys then and now The exhibition presents a selection of toys from the Bregenzerwald from the turn of the century through to the start of the “plastic era”. opening times 21 November 2015 – 3 January 2016 and 11 March – 10 April 2016 Fri – Sun 2 – 4 p.m. information & guided tours Tourist office Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 3570 47 www.schwarzenberg.at www.angelika-kauffmann.com

87 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom family tips active winter

The Bregenzerwald locals are masters in the art of cheese and cuisine. The Bregenzerwald KäseStrasse with its selection of enjoyable stations is ­dedicated to the subject of cheese. The chefs in the multi award-winning restaurants and inns skilfully master the art of cooking.

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dining out

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käsestrasse bregenzerwald

Alpine dairy in Schnepfau

How come a valley community in which, a century ago, Sunday dinner comprised a sort of wheat flour mash (with maize grits the rest of the week) is now a gourmet region with specialities whose origins are protected and where refined gastronomy is at home in many restaurants?

the Austrian Ministry for Food and the AMA (Agrarmarkt Austria), wishing to remind consumers of regional specialities. The basic ­prerequisites are that the ingredients come from the region, that production is regional, and that the products are firmly rooted in regional gastronomy.

The Bregenzerwald is an Austrian gourmet region. These days, the word “gourmet” is used all too frequently in advertising: however, the expression “gourmet region” has a specific meaning: it is a registered brand by

In the Bregenzerwald, this means alpine cheese. Every year, approximately 3,000 tons of alpine cheese are produced in the valley’s 17 dairies.

Every year, 200 tons of alpine cheese are handmade by the 90 or more dairy alps every summer. The special thing about this cheese is the silofree milk it is produced from, since only 2% of EU dairy farmers produce in this way, i.e. their cows never eat silo fodder – instead, between May and October, they only eat grass and herbs. During the winter, they only eat the air-dried hay from valley meadows. In the so-called three-stage farming method, following their ­winter in the barn, the animals graze on the mountain pastures located at medium height (around 900 m) ­during the spring and the autumn, and on the high mountain pasture

tip: cheese cellar lingenau From the foyer, you can observe the fully-automated treatment of the cheese: a robot goes along the 55-metre long cheese racks, individually lifts each loaf from the sprucewood boards, brushes it with salt water and puts it back in its previous place. information and opening times Tue to Fri 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

T +43 (0)5513 4287041 www.kaesestrasse.at

käsestrasse bregenzerwald

family tips active winter culture dining out well-being

Historical alpine dairy kitchen, exhibiting the working methods and equipment used for the production of cheese and milk processing over the past 300 years. guided tours: Wednesday at 10 a.m. and by arrangement information & registration Hittisau Tourismus T +43 (0)5513 620950 www.hittisau.at

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tip: hittisau alpine dairy museum

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The passage of this modest alp fare to the current first-class restaurants in the Bregenzerwald – which now use over 60 regional types of cheese – went through a series of changes which demanded quality rather than ­quantity. These include the 1997 EU Protection of Origin of alpine and mountain cheeses, the establishment of the “­KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald” in 1998 as a network of farmers, alpine ­dairies, craftsmen, publicans and businesses, the “Gourmet region of the ­Bregenzerwald” in 2005, the ­Vorarlberg quality marketing “luag druf” in 2005, the inclusion of ­Bregenzerwald mountain cheese into the “Ark of taste” by Slow Food 2008, and the “­Bregenzerwald Gourmet Days” by the KäseStrasse in July 2009. The toughest taste test is still the most regional however: every year, alpine and mountain cheese is judged in Schwarzenberg. The winner at this event is enough to ­satisfy any gourmet’s taste buds.

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The three-stage farming method (which was included in the national UNESCO list of immaterial cultural assets in spring 2011) in particular gives the alpine cheese the special flavour which means it can easily contend with the well-known European full-fat cheeses. It has been like this for a long time: back at the start of the 19th century, the inhabitants of the Bregenzerwald sold over 30.000 kg of cheese to the monarchy and abroad. In 1877, Karl von ­Seyffertitz wrote: “Everywhere – including in the cheerful Vorderwald, in Hittisau and Lingenau, you will meet a unique people in strange national dress in wood-panelled parlours with floors scrubbed white, with shiny door handles – the men busy looking after a dairy breed of cow and overseeing the production of a popular, worldfamous fine cheese, the women busy with elaborate whitework embroidery.” However, it wasn’t the producers back then who made all the money – it was the sellers. The Schnepfau local Josef Ambros Moosbrugger, for example, made so much profit from selling cheese that he could afford a city palace in Milan. No doubt he dined differently to the people back home, where cooking over an open fire resulted above all in simple panfried dishes such as the “Riebel” and the “­Schwozermuas”. Up on the alp, flour, salt, butter, quark and cheese were the main ingredients. The recipe for “­Schwozermus” – named for the woodcutters from Schwaz – was: “Water, flour, salt, dripping – and that’s it!” The lack of bread on the alp

gave rise to the “­Käsknöpfle”, to “Sig”, known only in the Bregenzerwald and which is caramelised lactose, since they wanted to make a further product from the whey.

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during the summer. The mountain pastures are run as a collective, since the farmers only have an average of 12 cows in the barn.

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culinary winter hikes in the bregenzerwald

Step by step from course to course

Hike through the wintry landscape and warm your cockles over a meal in cosy cafés, mountain inns and restaurants. With breakfast, lunch and dessert. Four impressive hikes are offered.

price per person € 36 – € 55 (depending on the hike) services included - Description of the hiking route - Vouchers for the meals - Tickets for the bus (if necessary) information & booking Bregenzerwald Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 2365 www.bregenzerwald.at

Alberschwende (26.12.15 to 13.03.16) Following breakfast in the friendly café, which is located in an old Bregenzerwald house, you hike up from the church square in Alberschwende to the sunny, panoramic slopes to Kaltenbrunnen.

The Alpenrose inn serves up typical cheese spätzle. Once you have fortified yourself at the inn, you go up to the Alpengasthof Brüggele. Once you have warmed up and enjoyed a sweet treat, you return to Alberschwende.

Breakfast: Café Caesars Alberschwende • Breakfast including drink Main course: Gasthaus Alpenrose Egg • Pancake soup with strips of vegetables and Cheese spätzle (“­Käsknöpfle”) with salad or • Pancake soup with strips of vegetables and Creamy veal goulash with spätzle with salad Sweet finale: Alpengasthof Brüggele • Peter’s home-made shredded ­pancake withcranberries or • quark strudel on fruits of the ­forest coulis withvanilla ice cream and whipped cream

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Hittisau-Hochhäderich (25.12.15 to 27.03.2016) Following breakfast in the modern yet cosy panorama restaurant, you hike from Vorarlberg to Bavaria.

Lunch is served in the Hochbühl mountain inn following a gentle ramble. An attractive mountain path in the alpine area takes you to the Alpstüble Moos where you finish off the day over coffee and cake.

Breakfast: Almhotel Hochhäderich • Breakfast buffet Aperitif: Hörmoos alp • Schnapps Lunch: Hochbühl mountain inn • Cheese spätzle with salad and drink or • Wiener schnitzel with salad and French fries Sweet finale: Alpstüble Moos • Home-made cake and a cup of coffee

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Mellau-Bizau-Bezau (19.12.15 to 27.03.16) After breakfast in the Sonne Lifestyle Resort Mellau, hike along the winter hiking path to Bizau. Dine on organic food in the “Schwanen”, beautifully prepared in accordance with the principles of Hildegard von Bingen. Follow Bizau brook as far as Bezau. Round off your day of winter hiking with some sweet treats in the friendly Café Katrina.

Breakfast: Lifestyle Resort Sonne Mellau • Breakfast buffet Main course: Biohotel Schwanen Bizau • Meat/fish or • vegetarian dish of the season Sweet finale: Café Katrina Bezau • Apple fritters with vanilla ice cream and whipped cream or • quark dumplings on a vanilla and fruit sauce with raspberry sorbet

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Sibratsgfäll-Schönenbach (27.12.15 to 03.04.16) Start the day with breakfast in the Nußbaumer inn. A winter hiking path takes you to the mountain pasture settlement of Schönenbach, which enjoys a lovely location. The recently constructed Jagdgasthaus Egender, where you will enjoy your lunch, is well known for miles around. Back in Sibratsgfäll, enjoy dessert in Hotel Hirschen.

Breakfast: Gasthof Nußbaumer Sibratsgfäll • Breakfast including drink Main course: Jagdgasthaus Egender Schönenbach • Cheese spätzle with salad or • Wiener schnitzel with French fries or salad Sweet finale: Hotel Hirschen Sibratsgfäll • Home-made yeast pastry with vanilla sauce or • home-made apple strudel with ice cream and whipped cream

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culinary winter hikes in the bregenzerwald

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exceptional specialties

Regional cuisine with creative touches

The Bregenzerwald has a considerable number of restaurants and inns for those who enjoy good food. This includes a few exceptional addresses.

MundArt The term “MundArt” has two meanings in the Bregenzerwald: firstly, it means the special dialects maintained in this region – even the Vorarlberg locals don’t understand it all! Secondly, “MundArt” stands for the creativity displayed by the Bregenzerwald catering trade. For them, it is a matter of etiquette to use produce from local farms in their kitchens: meat, vegetables, herbs and dairy products.

The following award-winning ­Bregenzerwald inns and restaurants have made it their business to adopt “MundArt” as their motto. information www.mundart-restaurants.at

Gasthof Adler in Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2966 www.adler-schwarzenberg.at Gasthof Hirschen in Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2944-0 www.hirschenschwarzenberg.at Gasthof Krone in Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6201 www.krone-hittisau.at Gasthof Gams in Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2220 www.hotel-gams.at Hotel Krone in Au T +43 (0)5515 2201 www.krone-au.at Hotel Post in Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207-0 www.hotelpostbezau.com Hotel Das Schiff in Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6220 www.schiff-hittisau.com Restaurant Schulhus in Krumbach T +43 (0)5513 8389 www.schulhus.com

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“Zum alten Löwen” – Bergbrennerei A modern mountain distillery with small shop has been established in the former Gasthof zum alten Löwen in Au-Rehmen, which is a listed ­building.

Home-made cakes and snacks are served n the cosy premises of the traditional inn.

Cultural events and exhibitions are held in the Löwensaal.

0pening times Visit and tasting: Wednesday to ­Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m. and upon request Inn: Wednesday to Sunday, 2 to 6 p.m. information T +43 (0)5515 25964 www.zum-alten-loewen.at

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Vinothek FRANZMICHL The cosily furnished wine bar in the centre of Schoppernau boasts an abundant selection of choice wines.

0pening times Tue, Wed 5 p.m. to midnight, Fri 4 p.m. to midnight, Sat 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. information T +43 (0)680 500 1002 www.franzmichl.at

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Frau Kaufmann: Learn home-style cooking At “Frau Kaufmann”, a four-course meal is cooked according to old ­recipes, either true to the original or with a few contemporary changes.

All participants attend each course, either cooking or watching. The individual meals are eaten as soon as they are ready. Suitable wines are served. Depending on the topic, interesting guests, experienced chefs, farmers or wine-growers are invited along. The cooking session includes the recipes, an aperitif, ­communal dining of the dishes accompanied by wine, and a sample to take home. The shop and the online shop offer the perfect accompaniment for all those wishing to indulge in the entertaining atmosphere of the cooking ­sessions at home. The shop and the restaurants are open every Friday between 4 and 7 p.m. during term time. information Karin Kaufmann T +43 (0)676 4954144 www.fraukaufmann.at

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Ms Kaufmann in her cooking studio

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dairy farming up close A visit to the farm offers insights into the world of the farmers. Regional products are part of the the Bregenzerwald’s identity.

Au-Schoppernau – information on the production of yogurt, including tasting The Kohler family processes a large part of the milk into delicious ­natural and fruit yogurt, quark and rustic-style spreads. The guests get the chance to watch young farmer Martin during production, and to then taste the fresh, tasty products.

Place: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: Kohler farm, Au, Lugen 83 Date: 23 December 2015 to 30 March 2016, every Wednesday at 4.30 p.m.

Duration: approx. 1 hour Registration: by 12 p.m. information & registration Au-Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2288 www.au-schoppernau.at

Egg – Molke Metzler The project NATURHAUTNAH has created a place for energy-efficient and sustainable farming where visitors can experience all agricultural processes up close and in person.

Visitors can grasp, literally and figuratively, life at the farm and everything that it involves or creates; an experience that inspires an appetite for nature. From the imposing cow pens and the turbulent goat romping house with its visitor gallery, to the small animal cuddling zone, the herb garden, the high-tech cooling and heating system, through to the cheese production, on to whey-based cosmetic processing and the farm shop with its choice range on offer: there is nothing to hide.

Dairy tour for Individual visitors, Groups, ­Preschool and school classes Milking goats and cows with brunch or cheese buffet and whey drinks information & reservations Metzler Käse - Molke GmbH Bruggan 1025, 6863 Egg T +43 (0)5512 3044 www.molkeprodukte.at Schwarzenberg – from the field to the plate Guests experience how the ­coherent cycle of man, animal (cows, goats, pigs, chickens, rabbits) and countryside is lived out by the Held family.

The tour is rounded off with a homemade snack in the farm shop.

Minimum number of participants: 2 Place: Schwarzenberg Meeting point: Rainer Bergbauer, Auf der Egg 183 Dates: 19 October 2015 to 24 April 2016, daily upon request Duration: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 10 including a snack (€ 5 for children) information and booking By 5 p.m. the day before Rainer Held and family T +43 (0)664 8779940 or T +43 (0)664 3130658 www.ziegenheld.at

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Who doesn’t occasionally long for a retreat, for a ­leisurely pace, for stimuli which pamper the body and soul? The Bregenzerwald is such a retreat. With a great selection of specialised hotels and range of ­services for your very own well-being.

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health hotels

Wellness with a view

Curative or preventative: if you want to lend your health a helping hand, you are in the right place! Some health hotels also offer wellness days for visitors who are not guests of their establishments. Prior reservations are required for all these programmes.

Hotel Schwanen**** The only certified organic hotel in the Bregenzerwald – detox, fasting and wellbeing programmes.

Bizau, T +43 (0)5514 2133 www.schwanen.at Gesundhotel Bad Reuthe**** Applications using mud, wellness and beauty package deals. Lovely ­bathing house with a sauna and ­wellness complex and pool in the ­garden (open to the public).

Tip: it is recommended that you make a reservation by telephone during the peak season.

Reuthe, T +43 (0)5514 2265-0 www.badreuthe.at Relax day 1 mud pack with freshly cut natural mud or herbal bath, 1 all-over body massage, 1 facial exfoliant and mask, including day ticket to the thermal

bath and sauna and wellness world, ­fitness room.

Price per Person: € 111 Vitalhotel Quellengarten*** Active hotel offering sports and ­relaxation activities. Spacious bathing and sauna complex plus fitness centre (open to the public).

Lingenau, T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at Chill-out day 1 back massage, 1 wellness bath of your choice, 1 solarium session, day ticket to the bathing and sauna world, use of the fitness room.

Price per Person: € 94.30 Auszeithotel Rossbad*** for treatments and health Therapeutic fasting, Moor vitality weeks, Kneipp treatments, wholefood cuisine.

Krumbach, T +43 (0)5513 5110 www.rossbad.at Wellness day Full-body massage, Scottish salt bath in the flotation lounger, affusion stimulating to the skin, use of the sauna and wellness area, including breakfast buffet, lunch and evening meal.

Price per Person: € 150

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Hirschen Wohlfühlhotel**** Informal establishment, adventure swimming pool with panoramic view of the countryside.

Schoppernau, T +43 (0)5515 21150 www.hirschen.at Wellness day A sparkling welcome, snugly bath robe, pampering facial, relaxing partial-body massage, light wellness lunch, relaxation in the whirlpool, in the sauna, in the steam bath, on waterbeds, total immersion in the panoramic adventure pool (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

Price per Person: € 135

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Romantik Hotel Das Schiff**** enjoyment the metzler way: Light-flooded relaxation areas, outdoor pool heated all year round, modern nature spa, saunas and steam baths.

Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 6220-0 www.schiff-hittisau.com

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Sonne Lifestyle Resort****S Modern-yet-cosy Superior-design and penthouse-design rooms, spacious [comfort zone] spa.

Mellau, T +43 (0)5518 20100-0 www.sonnemellau.com Wellness day in the Comfort Zone day spa for him and her 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Long breakfast from the Marktwelt (open daily between 7.30 and 10.30 a.m.); swimming bag including bathrobe, slippers, towel for use during your stay; bathing and nude zone, fitness centre.

Wellness vitality snack in the

Damülser Hof****S Wellness & Spa Family-run establishment with an informal atmosphere in a picturesque location at an altitude of 1,500 m above sea level, large wellness area (1,500 m²) with swimming pool, panorama sauna, Aroma steam bath, bio sauna, infrared booth, Kneipp footbaths, tranquillity room, modern fitness room, sunbathing lawn with meditation corner. A “Realm of the Senses” for massages, beauty packs and baths.

Damüls, T +43 (0)5510 210 www.damuelserhof.at

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Hotel Post Bezau & Susanne Kaufmann Spa ****S Mother Nature and sports, spa and detox, enjoyment and culture come together for the perfect holiday.

Bezau, T +43 (0)5514 2207 www.hotelpostbezau.com 1 day All-round healthy Relaxing tuina massage for the face and head, back massage, herb and whey bath, full-day use of the wellness area, welcome aperitif, light lunch Price per Person: € 188

r­ estaurant, snacks and drinks in the tea & juice corner.

Deal including voucher worth € 100, can be redeemed against all spa treatments and therapies.

Price per person: € 139

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GAMS, Genießer- & Kuschelhotel****S Blossom palace and cocoon with 52 romantic suites. Da Vinci Spa dream world with 2,000 m² of wellness.

Bezau, T +43 (0)5514 2220 www.hotel-gams.at

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These hotels are particularly orientated towards pampering their guests with pleasurable and exciting sensations for body, mind and soul.

Some also offer wellness days for visitors who are not guests of their establishments. Prior reservations are required for all these programmes.

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wellness hotels

Sky spa with a view of the mountains

Hotel Krone**** Modern wooden architecture, Wellness area, Sky spa with a lovely ­panorama . ­Bathing lake with ­spacious garden and relaxation complex. Indoor pool, wellness ­treatments.

Au, T +43 (0)5515 2201-0 www.krone-au.at

Sporthotel Steffisalp**** Modern hotel with SteffisSpa. Warth, T +43 (0)5583 3699 www.steffisalp.at Wellness day at SteffisSpa Use of vitality pool, sauna complex, steam bath and infra­red cabin.

Price per person: € 19 (incl. bathrobe and towels )

Wellnesshotel Linde**** Wellness and golf hotel with the elegant Sunset spa and a magnificent view. (open to the public) Sulzberg, T +43 (0)5516 2025 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at Wellness day 1 pack of fresh hay flowers, 1 back ­massage, day ticket to our Sunset spa with wellness pool, sauna complex, fitness room.

Price per Person: € 75.50

Landhotel Hirschen*** Yoga and herb weeks/days, wellness days, Moon week, forest experience days, base fasting, therapeutic fasting according to Dr Buchinger, talks on herbs, own herb garden.

Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 2320 www.landhotel-hirschen.at Wellness day 1 massage of your choice, 1 coloured light and sound therapy, 1 bath of your choice, use of the sauna, steam bath and wellness oasis.

Price per Person: € 120

Hotel St. Hubertus Spa area (massages, cosmetic treatments), wellness complex with 9-metre indoor whirlpool, 3-metre outdoor whirlpool, swimming pool (28°C all year round), bar and open fireplace.

Egg-Grossdorf, T +43 (0)5512 2785 www.sthubertus.at

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in Au-Schoppernau Selected vegetable fats and oils, caustic soda and Schoppernau spring water serve as the basis.

Flowers and herbs from her own garden and the surrounding mountain pastures are additives which give the hand-made natural soap their colour, texture and other properties. (for guests from the age of 14) Place: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: Karin Beer, ­Schoppernau, Halde 395 Date: 19 January to 22 March 2016, every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m.

Duration: approx. 2½-3 hours Price per person: € 39 including materials and detailed manuscript with recipes.

Registration: by telephone until 6 p.m. the day before information and registration Karin Beer T +43 (0)664 4155330

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“Helden in Grün” Elisabeth Breidenbrücker runs a herb garden in Bizau. She turns her herbs into tea, herb syrup, herb vinegar, herb salt, incense and much more.

The products are available from Reformhaus Fürpaß in Hittisau, from Jöslar inn in Andelsbuch and from her directly. inform­­­ation www.heldeningruen.com

tip: soap boiling course family tips

Susanne Kaufmann Spa Cosmetics A clear look and essences from ­Bregenzerwald nature determine the products. They are available in the Hotel Post and in the online shop. inform­­­ation www.susannekaufmann.com

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Whey body care products and soft drinks Ingo Metzler p ­ roduces fine personal hygiene products and powder to be made into drinks from whey. These products are also ­available online. inform­­­ation www.molkeprodukte.at (→ page 90)

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Whey body care products

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vorarlberg

Exciting views in the Damüls-Mellau skiing area

Vorarlberg is an imaginative state, inspirational in many senses.

The atmosphere? Dynamic. The ­awareness of life? Exciting and cultivated.

In the west of Austria, between Lake Constance and the mountains, the art of skiing has been practised for over a century. The culture of hospitality has a much longer tradition. The skiing areas and winter sports resorts are comfortable and modern. Thanks to Vorarlberg’s location on the north edge of the Alps, it gets any amount of natural snow, which is appreciated by skiers, winter hikers and crosscountry skiers alike.

A feast for the eye: the villages have maintained their picturesque appearance. The bold combination of traditional and modern wooden architecture is a surprising feature in many of the Bregenzerwald’s villages.The famed innovative craftsmen from the Bregenzerwald combine ancient skills with contemporary design.

Attentive hosts pamper their guests with their awareness of quality and regional produce. Ski schools and providers of outdoor services organise varied natural experiences. Concerts and music salons enrich the cultural landscape in the winter season. information Vorarlberg Tourismus Poststraße 11 6850 Dornbirn, Österreich T + 43 (0)5572 377033-0 F +43 (0)5572 377033-5 info@vorarlberg.travel www.vorarlberg.travel

how to reach vorarlberg

Munich 216 km

Friedrichshafen 62 km Memmingen 103 km

Lake Constance

D

Altenrhein 41 km Zurich 140 km

CH

Bregenzerwald Klein walsertal

BodenseeVorarlberg

FL

Brandnertal – Alpen- Arlberg stadt Bludenz – Klostertal – Großes Walsertal

Innsbruck 200 km

A

Montafon CH

Distances to Egg in the Bregenzerwald

How to reach Vorarlberg by car from the north • Stuttgart-Ulm-Lindau • or München-Memmingen-Lindau from the west via Swiss motorways* via Zurich-St. GallenSt. Margrethen from the south via the routes • Brenner motorway-InnsbruckArlberg pass-Lech-Warth** • or Arlberg road tunnel*-BludenzGroßes Walsertal • or Arlberg road tunnel*-Feldkirch-Dornbirn • Como-San Bernardino-ChurSt. Margrethen* from the east • Innsbruck-Arlberg pass-LechWarth** • or Arlberg road tunnel*-BludenzGroßes Walsertal • or Arlberg road tunnel*-Feldkirch-Dornbirn *toll road / ** closed in winter

toll sticker reQuired by law A toll applies to the use of Austria’s motorways and dual carriageways.

Types of toll sticker: 10-day, 2-month and yearly stickers.

Information: www.asfinag.at

How to reach Vorarlberg by train The closest railway stations (distances to Egg): • Bregenz (A): 26 km • Dornbirn (A): 20 km • St. Margrethen (CH): 32 km • Lindau (D): 35 km Timetable information: www.oebb.at How to reach Vorarlberg by aeroplane Zurich (CH), Friedrichshafen (D), Memmingen (D), Munich (D), Innsbruck (A); Transfers from the airports to the Bregenzerwald: www.airport-drivers.com Public buses in the region The Bregenzewald has an excellent public bus service.

To go skiing, holders of the 3-valley ski pass can use the public buses to reach the skiing area of their choice.

Timetables, fares and information: www.vmobil.at Taxis in the region Taxi Fechtig Bezau, T +43 (0)5514 2311 Taxi Alfons Bischof Damüls, T +43 (0)5510 233 Hagspiel Touristik Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 6335 Felder Reisen Mellau, T +43 (0)5518 2257 Ritter Tours Schröcken, T +43 (0)5519 211 Taxi Zündel Schwarzenberg, T +43 (0)664 98 53 113 Taxi Hörburger Krumbach, T +43 (0)664 1851333

Bregenzerwald Tourismus Opening times: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday and bank holidays 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. | Closed on Sundays Impulszentrum 1135 | 6863 Egg | Vorarlberg | Austria T +43 (0)5512 2365 | F +43 (0)5512 3010 info@bregenzerwald.at | www.bregenzerwald.at