Grindelwaldmagazin 17 18 en sommer

PART-TIME ALPINE DAIRYMEN BUSINESSMEN FIND NEW IDEAS BUSINESSMEN FIND NEW IDEAS IN THE MOUNTAINS

ANNIVERSARY

AFTER 30 YEARS, THE GRIWAPLAN AG REORGANIZES HER BUSINESS

SWISSMAN

ABOUT AN EXTRA-CLASS TRIATHLON

ADV. GRIWARENT

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L E A DIN G A R T IC L E

30 YEARS GRIWAGROUP - and now?

Dear friends, For thirty years, I had the privilege of leading the management of GriwaPlan AG and later the GriwaGroup with its various companies. During this time I experienced many ups and downs, joys and sorrows. I actually wanted to be a teacher and never considered being an entrepreneur. My career, however, pulled me in this direction. Nevertheless, I am happy to be where I am today because GriwaGroup has developed well, without big business plans and complicated company strategies; that sort of thing has never interested me. My motto is the attitude I grew up with: «Ora et labora».

Nevertheless, I began thinking about the future of the GriwaGroup some time ago, because everything on our planet has a time limit. It was important to me to plan carefully with the involvement of senior staff. After all, it is not just about me but also the future of many employees.

From this succession planning, the GriwaGroup Holding emerged, various sections of the companies were integrated and have been active since January 1 2017. It is a great pleasure for me to see the enthusiasm and motivation in the staff now running the companies. The new organizational form allows me to give up the operational management in various areas but I still enjoy providing support when it is requested.

My future tasks include developing projects and implementing them with the GriwaPlan AG as the main, or general, contractor and, of course, to work together with the «GriwaFamily». Many very interesting projects are already in progress and I am anxious to know which ones can be realized and, of course, also where my path will lead me. For the time being my wife Fabienne and I will stay in Chalet Shalom in Grindelwald.

Fabienne continues to work in her medical practice in Interlaken.

I sincerely thank you, dear friends, for the journey we have shared together thus far, and I look forward to seeing you again.

Your Markus Friedli President and Chairman of the board GriwaGroup

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HOTEL

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SU M M A R Y

SUMMER Timeout with cows

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Team development at the Bussalp

The flying banker

A village with traditions

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About building chalets in Grindelwald

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Roger Fischer and his passion for

Terrasses with view

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Nice places around Grindelwald

paragliding

Summer activities Griwa-Special

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Sport, nature and experiences

Traditional company from Grindelwald

Shopping & Eating

celebrates his 30. anniversary

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The new companies of GriwaGroup

Publisher: GriwaGroup

Interview with Markus Friedli

Concept: GriwaGroup in cooperation with Ville&Casali

Strong nerves needed

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Layout: GriwaGroup, Michael Ackermann, Dep. Head of Marketing GriwaGroup

The Swissman-Triathlon with finish

Redaction: Susan Lerch-Stettler, Head ofMarketing GriwaGroup

Grindelwald

Texts: Annette Marti, GriwaGroup

Interview with Finisher Ueli Amstad

Photos: David Birri, Michael Ackermann, Speedy FĂźllemann, Jungfraubahnen

Grindelwald First

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The Adventure-Mountain in Grindelwald

Translations: Eva Sailer, Enrico Morelli, Sandro Bolton, Cristina D'A ndrea Print: Arti Grafiche Boccia - Salerno

ADV. SCHERTENLEIB PLATTEN

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EIGERALP

TIMEOUT with COWS ALPINE DAIRYMEN and MOUNTAIN FARMERS know it well – alpine fever – men as well as animals are gripped by it. But also distinguished urban dwellers are prone to the virus. Immersed in the alpine way of life, on the Bussalp above Grindelwald, they find new inspiration.

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t is early in the morning – 4:30am. It is cold in the alp hut above Grindelwald.

The two men work silently. One turns the cheese from the previous day in the cheese press, which is weighed down with large stones, the other one carefully scoops the thick cream off the milk in the copper kettle with a wooden ladle. They quickly drink a sip of warm coffee before setting off towards the dark alpine pastures to begin moving the cows into the

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stables to be milked. Later, during the milking, the morning sun rises over the mountain summits whose everlasting snowfields now shine with a golden hue. Dres Michel stands up. In his rubber boots, he trudges with his milking chair still attached to his bottom, to the stable door. The upper part is open and he says the first words of the morning, «Come, Michael, look at this.»

Dres’ family has been living in the valley for generations.

Above The cows determine the tact: Team development at the Bussalp, high above Grindelwald.

The mountain peaks, the glaciers, ridges, crests and hollows all around are well known to him. He grew up at the Bussalp at the foot of the Faulhorn and this developed into a mountain farmer’s life.

Nevertheless, he enjoys the magnificent view every day anew. The second man of the well-trained team is Michael Utecht, who is professionally the complete opposite of the

Gr in de lwald from alpine dairyman Grindelwald. Utecht lives in Paris and Zürich during the winter. He works as a communication consultant and systemic coach. He followed the classic career path in international corporations for a long time but it was only when he decided to take some professional time-out on an alp, that he was able to find the right balance in life. This balance defines his life today.

«I need the contrast between pulsating urban life and seclusion in nature», says Michael. At the end of the first alpine summer he got to know Dres and his family. Michael happily agreed when Dres asked him if he wanted to come to the Bussalp as a mountain farmer because he had already begun to feel the

grip of ‘alpine fever’ and had developed a love of the mountains.

As different as the two men seem at first glance, their enthusiasm for the traditional life on the alp is very similar.

They also share similar views on standards for the animals and for the quality of their products.

«Traditions are important to me, but in order to keep these traditions one has to compromise and let others participate», says Dres, who is proud not to own a Facebook profile. The two began to open the alpine farm to a broader audience and created the name Eigeralp for the alpine farming on the Bussalp, which had previously been managed by Dres’ father.

His father had also organised

Above At the alp in summer, in town in winter: Michael Utecht.

regular demonstrations of cheese making in the alp hut.

Dres and Michael expanded this offer, serving guests an alpine breakfast with homemade products such as butter, yoghurt, jams, different kinds of cheese and freshly baked bread. From there it was a small step to the idea of involving visitors in the production.

The concept «Experience the Alp» was born.

Couples or small groups of up to six people can come on a daily basis to the alp and become part of the team. The small sleeping rooms, which are traditionally located above the barn, have been renovated and now surprise with a simple but appealing chalet style. The outhouse has also been upgraded. Nevertheless, Above Do they make it right? Alpine farmer Dres Michel (behind) only intervenes when it goes badly wrong. Sascha, Jan and Carsten (from left to right) pour cheese in the molds.

ADV. HIMMELBLAU 7

EIGERALP

Above Break after a hard morning: The team recovers in front of an alpine cabin on the Bussalp.

the alpine huts are far from luxury in the traditional sense.

The breakfast is prepared in the simple kitchen and the cheese making still takes place in a big copper kettle over an open fire. Luxury shows itself in another way: products, which cannot be any fresher, quietness and authenticity. Life and work on the alp take their normal course and everyone can participate. You are a guest, yes, but real working life continues to take place in the huts. This has its own very special charm and - you might be surprised – is very well received by the visitors.

They come up the mountain for many different reasons: some want to recharge their batteries far away from their hectic everyday life, some have the urge to clear away the cobwebs through physical activity in nature. As a systematic coach, Michael also works with people who want to change something in their

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lives but do not quite know ‘what’ and ‘how’. It does not matter if guests come for pure pleasure or if they come with personal baggage, they are integrated into the alpine life in an uncomplicated way.

One example is a group of five men from Germany, management members of the German railway, who booked a team development package on the alp.

Their assignment began with a detailed briefing in which Michael and Dres told the new dairy farmers which tasks they had to do as a team and which aspects required special attention. This included the cheese making and having the «Mutschli» (a small, round, semi-hard cheese) finished by midday.

The new mountain farmers started the tasks courageously, and it did not seem so difficult at first. Soon they realized that every little bit of work had to be spot on. Michael and Dres deliberately remained in the background. The team had to discover by itself how it

would deal with the new challenges. Not many of the men had ever had anything to do with animals let alone worked on an alp. In their professional life they had only started working as a team recently and the goal of the stay was to get to know each other better and to understand the patterns of their collaboration better. Quiet tasks such as stirring the milk or the rubbing of the cheese with salt liquor, gave room for discussion.

The five also discussed important strategic points from their everyday work life during extensive hikes in the afternoon. «I really asked myself before our departure why we had to take this long journey to Switzerland», said Sascha, who was somewhat critical about the whole thing.

«But now I am realizing that this is really something different. This unusual work, the animals and the nature – all of this has a very positive impact on all of us.» Sven emphasized this statement:

Gr in de lwald «It is hard to put into words – the environment, the atmosphere, the people – all of this is impressive. In an unobtrusive way we become part of the alp and our teamwork has meaning and a goal which motivates me a lot.»

The stable door is still ajar towards the valley. Two comfortable wooden chairs in the cool shade are meant as an invitation to enjoy what adds the special zest to Dres and Michael’s life, the breath taking view out over the mountain landscape. The now mountain farming businessmen take a little rest. «How small the houses look down there», says Jan and points down over the green meadows into the valley. «From this perspective one does not think of oneself as that important anymore.» From up

here many things seem much smaller and less important all of a sudden. This different perspective of the world helps to clear the head and to create space for new thoughts.

Michael knows the effect. He has seen his guests begin to perceive their own situation, their own world differently, many times. As a coach he builds on such moments. «The work with the animals, nature and the withdrawal from electronic media», he says, «encourages people to deal with issues more consciously and to think about new ways.»

Later, the «Mutschlis» have been pressed into their forms and the conversations at the table in front of the alpine hut revolve around the work on the alp. As managers, they have already discovered

ADV. HOTEL DERBY

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EIGERALP

various processes, which in their view could be optimized.

«Yesterday I thought that one has to rationalize some things or even not do some things», Carsten says aloud. «But now I realize that this might not be right. People here value their traditions. And it makes sense.» Philipp agrees: «Dres answers all our questions that is not to be taken for granted. He really wants to teach us something because this lifestyle is important to him». The others agree that this morning they did not only learn something about themselves and their colleagues but also gained respect for a type of work they had no idea about before. They will value a piece of alpine cheese quite differently in the future. No doubt, the guests have felt the magic of alpine life and will return strengthened into their regular work life. Perhaps they

will come back some day, because those gripped by ‘alpine fever’ know, that for humans and animals the alp is the hardest time of the year… and the most beautiful one.

More Info: www.eigera lp.ch

Above

Text: Annette Marti

Such moods above the valley are a special gift for the

Photos: David Birri

alpine farmers and their guests.

CHEESE DIRECTLY TO YOUR DOOR Zenger­bringts delivery service also available for private households The alpine cheese, produced during the summer by Dres Michel and Michael Utecht is also available at Zenger cheese in Grindelwald. Marc Zenger, who took over the cheese farm at Dorfstrasse 62 in Grindelwald from his parents, runs a small factory shop there. His main service is to supply restaurants and hotels with cheese and beverages. Private households can also make use of this service. When requested, Marc Zenger provides cheese for holiday apartments and delivers the cheese or the fondue mix directly into your fridge, including the white wine! Amongst others, the alpine cheese from the Eigeralp is available as a semi­hard cheese. The wheels of cheese are often sold out before they can be stored for a long time. It is best to contact the specialists at Zenger­bringst, or at Eigeralp, if you have a taste for multi­year Hobel cheese from the alp.

Above

www.zenger­bringts.ch

His family has been working on the alpine pastures for generations: Dres Michel..

ADV. SANTAG THUN AG 10

Gr in de lwald

ADV. KIRCHHOFEER

ADV. JUNGFRAUMARATHON

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PARAGLIDING

The FLYING BANKER from Grindelwald THROUGH THE AIR IN A SUIT - He either flies to work with his paraglider or spends his lunch break in the air: investment adviser ROGER FISCHER would not be happy working anywhere else than in Grindelwald.

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araglider and tie? No problem. At least not for Roger Fischer. This is why the financial expert from Kriens, in the canton of Luzern, now lives in Grindelwald. «It is fantastic that I can work in the place whereI like to spend my spare time», says Fischer. This is why he and his partner moved to Grindelwald ten years ago.

They both love mountain sports, skiing, mountaineering, paragliding and much more. «The combination of work and sport is simply unique for me in Grindelwald», enthuses Fischer. «It is part of my happiness». In a video from his former employer, he was seen with fluttering tie, flying a paraglider – an advertisement for their location in Grindelwald. «I am probably the only banker who flies to work with a paraglider» he says in the video. But he does not only wear the suit for photo shoots. Sometimes it just happens to be what he is wearing because Fischer uses every moment possible to go paragliding, for example, in his lunch break or even on the way home from work when he takes the last gondola up in order to fly back to the village.

If the bank’s annual general meeting takes place in a mountain restaurant, Fischer logically arrives with his paraglider.

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A few months ago, Fischer’s carefully assembled life structure began to crack. Due to a reorganisation of the bank he was working for, he was transferred to Spiez. There had even been the possibility that he would be transferred to Bern.

Fischer’s world collapsed. «To work in the lowlands is simply not an option for me», says the financial expert. «Commuting, I find very tiresome», Heavy heartedly Fischer drove to work for a while in Spiez but was never happy with the situation.

Only when a new job offer from the competition in Grindelwald was put on the table, life began to go uphill again. Since February 2017 he has been working for the Raiffeisen bank in Grindelwald as financial advisor. «I don’t work for a bank

Above

Goes to work by paraglider:

Roger Fischer, the «flying banker» from Grindelwald .

because money fascinates me but because I love dealing with customers» says Fischer. «The fact that I was not able to advise my customers at my old place of work anymore pained me. It had taken time to build up trust».

During his work life difficulties, Fischer concentrated on his young daughter and put lots of energy into his training as a tandem paraglide pilot. With the new job many things took a positive turn. Fischer is happy to have his work on his doorstep again, in midst of the mountains which are actually a huge playground for him. Moreover, he can now also do passenger flights with his tandem brevet. In

particular, he offers Hike&FlyTours – hiking up to a beautiful spot and then flying down with the paraglider. Moreover, a new book project is in the works.

Fischer has already published a freeride guide for the Jungfrau region and one for the Davos Kloster area (see box). Fisher’s motor, which is fuelled by his experiences in the mountains, is running again – and well!

Above Tandem-paragliding with a passenger from the Jungfrau: Roger Fischer (behind) loves Outdoor Sports and cannot imagine a better place to work and live

BOOKS FROM ROGER FISCHER Roger Fischer’s website www.freerideguide.ch does not only offer «Hike&Fly» packages and other flight adventures but also two books for ski fans. These are available in the online shop: the Freeride Guide to the Jungfrau Region contains 43 variants in the ski area of Grindelwald­First, Kleine Scheidegg­Männlichen and

Text: Annette Marti

Mürren­Schilthorn, and the Freeride Guide to the

Fotos: zvg. Roger Fischer

Davos Klosters Region contains 48 variants in the ski area Parsenn, Jakobshorn, Pischa, Rinerhorn and Madrisa.

ADV. WYSS SPORT

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GRIWA­SPECIAL

A whole PALET TE of COMPANY SERVICES...

In March 2017 GRIWAPLAN AG celebrated its 30TH ANNIVERSARY. MARKUS FRIEDLI took this anniversary as an opportunity to organize his succession. He is passing sections of the companies of the GRIWAGROUP AG INTO NEW HANDS.

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success story was created in 1987 when several entrepreneurs in Grindelwald decided to found GriwaPlan AG. Over the past 30 years the company has developed into GriwaGroup AG through additional start-ups and acquisitions. GriwaGroup AG now includes several companies with 90 employees. Markus Friedli, who at first came reluctantly to Grindelwald (see interview) has become one of the most important entrepreneurs in the region and his company

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Above The new managing directors and deputy heads of GriwaGroup (fltr): Sandro Bolton (GriwaTreuhand AG), Stefan Garbani (GriwaArchitektur AG), Jan Ewert (dep. Head GriwaTreuhand AG) Markus Friedli (GriwaPlan AG), Susan Lerch-Stettler (GriwaRent AG) and Ewald Wellig (dep. Head GriwaArchitektur AG).

group, a driving force for the entire Grindelwald region.

Friedli has thoroughly planned for the future of the company and handed over a lot of responsibility into new hands at the beginning of this celebratory year. His young cadre of employees now has an increased involvement in the

shareholder base and Friedli has given most of the operational responsibility to them. On January 1st 2017, Sandro Bolton became the managing director of GriwaTreuhand AG, Stefan Garbani the managing director of GriwaArchitektur AG and Susan Lerch-Stettler the managing director of GriwaRent AG.

Gr in de lwald These three companies have built on each other and together cover a whole service chain.

Customers receive a selection of services from the same company group, which range from planning, construction, administration, real estate and rental.

This offer is complemented by the newly acquired furniture store Wohncenter von Allmen in Interlaken, which specialises in furnishing and consultation. The portfolio of the GriwaGroup also includes the Hotel Aspen, which is a showcase in respect to quality and style in Grindelwald.

Moreover, after the shock of the second home initiative, it is a

model for real estate management with its hotel-like administered apartments. Markus Friedli himself is retiring from the operative management of the individual divisions, but GriwaPlan AG as the general and overall contractor stays under his leadership. In this role, he takes care of new project acquisitions and the comprehensive consulting of customers.

Above

Where everything begun: The Chalet

Diamant at the village entrance of Grindelwald is Text & Fotos: GriwaGroup

one of four houses of the first development Markus Friedli realized. Today it is the headquarters of GriwaGroup.

GriwaTreuhand AG Real Estate, Real Estate Trustee, Long Term Rental

GriwaTreuhand AG is a hub for all matters when looking to buy, sell, long­term let or administer property. Since 1995, the company has offered a whole range of services, which go way beyond buying, selling and marketing property. GriwaTreuhand AG also takes care of administrative and legal work, advises on matters related to financing, insurance or taxes and handles the administration and management of properties. Who likes to deal with formalities such as the billing of ancillary costs or the maintenance of infrastructure during their leisure time?

Comprehensive and personal consulting is a major concern of the new managing director of GriwaTreuhand, Sandro Bolton.

His two deputies, Iris Küttel­Jufer and Jan Ewert, as well as a team of ten employees support him.

Above Managing director of GriwaTreuhand AG, Sandro Bolton (right) and dep. Head of sales, Jan Ewert

www.griwatreuhand.ch

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GRIWA­SPECIAL

GriwaRent AG Rental Service for Holiday Apartments & Chalets Grindelwald has a wide portfolio of apartments and chalets, which can be rented by guests. The selection ranges from a comfortable holiday apartment with luxury interior, cosy chalets, to simple apartments for an attractive price. Susan Lerch­Stettler, managing director of GriwaRent AG, and her team focus on the well being of their guests. Therefore, the team takes care of all customer concerns in order for them to enjoy carefree holidays. The selection of the right apartment is just as important as a comprehensive service, which starts with the smooth key handover and provision of detailed information from the beginning. If required, extra services such as a filled fridge ready for the first breakfast or the organisation of ski passes can be provided. All services are listed on the GriwaRent AG webpage and can also be booked online. www.griwarent.ch

Left The GriwaRent Team (from left to right):Amanda Abegglen, Sabrina Schuster, Vivienne Bosboom, Michelle Gerber and managing director Susan Lerch-Stettler

GriwaArchitektur AG Architecture & Property Development GriwaArchitektur AG is the youngest company but the one with the longest tradition within the GriwaGroup AG. It was detached from GriwaPlan AG at the beginning of 2017 and covers the entire architectural division. Planning and building were the first pillars when everything started 30 years ago in Grindelwald and therefore the experience, which managing director Stefan Garbani and his deputy Ewald Wellig can build on, is substantial. Together with their employees they insure that the planning of real estate and its architectural implementation are conducted as carefully and professionally as they were with GriwaPlan AG. GriwaArchitektur AG takes into account the smallest details in every phase in order to achieve its high quality standards. The synergy generated by the whole GriwaGroup AG is also beneficial to the team. www.griwaarchitektur.ch

Right Dep. Head Ewald Wellig (left) and managing director of GriwaArchitektur AG, Stefan Garbani

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Gr in de lwald

von Allmen AG Interior Design Apartments & Office In 2016 the GriwaGroup AG took over the renowned furnishing company von Allmen, which is located by the train station in Interlaken Ost. This first step outside Grindelwald makes sense for the GriwaGroup from a business perspective (see also interview), but also adds value for the customers. The idea of providing furnishing concepts strengthens the offer of the service chain as a whole. Managing director Marco Niederberger has the vision to plan and implement furnishing concepts for private and business customers from start to finish. He plans to begin the consultation process from the customers’ present point, or where he wishes to be, wishes to live, or wishes to work. In this way, the consultation keeps the customer as the focus and builds a plan with them very much at the centre. Right now the building in Interlaken is being modernised extensively, and converted into a building complex with apartments and business space. www.wohncenter­vonallmen.ch

Right Marco Niederberger, the new managing director of Wohncenter von Allmen AG

Hotel Aspen AG Alpin Lifestyle­Hotel, Gourmet­Restaurant, Wellness & SPA Markus Friedli started early to think of ways GriwaPlan AG could counteract the problem of cold beds. The GriwaPlan AG joined forces with the hoteliers Suzanne and Stefan Grossniklaus and together redeveloped the hotel in 2011. They followed the concept of multiple usage, which is attracting great attention.

The apartments in the attached multi­family chalet are partly used by the owners, but are also rented out to hotel guests. The owners are permitted to use the apartments for 120 days a year themselves. Another possibility in the new system is that a buyer invests in the apartment as a “business premise”. This means that he does not use the apartment himself, but that it is rented out throughout the year. The Hotel Aspen has developed into a role model through this modern approach to managing accommodation. The restaurant is not only a figurehead for the company group but for Grindelwald in general. www.hotel­aspen.ch

Left The host family of the ASPEN alpin lifestyle hotel (from left to right): Suzanne, Mara and Stefan Grossniklaus

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GRIWA ­ SPECIAL

An ENTREPRENEUR against his WILL What MARKUS FRIEDLI never wanted and yet excelled in

Annette Marti: You said in an interview that you actually never followed a real strategy or a business plan. After all that you have achieved, I can hardly believe it…

Markus Friedli: But it is true, many things in my life just happened.

My dream profession was a teacher and yet I became an architect, which I actually never wanted. People have always interested me more than business. A lot turned out differently to what I had planned and yet I am glad and thankful to be where I am today.

How did you actually get to Grindelwald?

My father had a carpenter’s shop in Wynigen and, although I trained as a carpenter too, I was happy that my sister married a man who took over the business.

I came to Grindelwald as a

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young architect for an internship, after the Technikum and a long military service. It was not a particularly happy time but then the pivotal moment occurred when five local architects asked me if I would like to found GriwaPlan AG with them.

How did the five come up with the idea to ask you, someone who describes himself as an unmotivated professional, to join such a project?

Frankly, I have no idea. But it was an important step because I would have never tackled such a project on my own. I turned it over in my mind for a while and then accepted. It was important to me to do something so that the cycle of the economy in Grindelwald kept turning. This is why we have always worked closely with local industries.

Above «I've worked hard, but I never got married with the work,"», says Markus Friedli, founder of the GriwaPlan AG. In January 2017, he gave the operational management of various business areas to the new managing directors.

But you could have easily blown the company…

I grew up with the principle «Ora et labora», when I do something I give it everything I have. Some people think that I have been married to my work, but this impression is not true. I have shown commitment, yes, and there have also been difficult times. After a good start in 1987 the market totally collapsed in the 1990s. At times I was alone with a draftsman and one secretary. We realised the first project in 1997, Eigerblick, where

Gr in de lwald our office is integrated today, without any of our own resources. The big companies all thought it to risky to implement such a thing. But a banker motivated me to take a bank credit, which I then did. Other than that we were not supported and still succeeded.

And the municipality of Grindelwald, did they support you?

In the beginning not really, no.

Well, I was a «foreigner». Our relationship was not so good for a long time, although we depended on each other.

However, I was always treated fairly when it came to constructional matters. I have had one commission from the public hand during the 30 years we have been working in Grindelwald – to build a small refuse chalet. That was three years ago. Even though it was a small commission, it was nevertheless important to me. I sincerely hope that the cooperation as we see it, will continue to improve and that the new managers will be given a chance and that the value chain will remain in the region.

You could have left at any time, why didn’t you?

It is not so simple to just leave again. I was married, my wife opened a doctor’s surgery in Interlaken and therefore I quickly had commitments. In addition, I had the feeling that I was not allowed to run away. It was important to me that everything I did was also good for the valley. It is quite clear: the structure only works when the economic cycle is turning. In 2000 I was also elected as the president of the trade union – after a dozen other candidates had cancelled – so I had a double interest in promoting local trade.

And your Work­Life­Balance was really never a problem?

Of course there were difficult times, but I have never defined myself just with my work. I was able to maintain a healthy inner distance. In this way one organises oneself differently. For example, I have nearly never worked in the evenings but often six days a week. When I go for a walk with our dog Nicky or when playing tennis, I can relax

well. It is also part of the balance to sometimes cancel things and not to try to monopolize everything.

Besides your innate sense of diligence and responsibility, you seem to have a sixth sense – otherwise the GriwaGroup would not be where it is now.

I have always had a certain confidence that everything will move in the right direction despite setbacks and resistance.

It was probably a combination of faith, confidence and the knowledge that I have no alternative. In the 1990s, when we received very few architectural orders, I discovered the market niche real estate trust.

This was obvious as there was nothing like this in Grindelwald at the time. Therefore, I completed an additional training and had to improve my English because today our customers come from approximately 40 different nations. We also began early to look for new solutions for the ‘cold beds’ problem, and established the Hotel Alpine Lifestyle Aspen with its managed apartments.

We founded GriwaRent, which now rents out a total of 450 beds. One just has to let things grow naturally.

The real estate market has collapsed with the second home initiative. How can you compensate for that?

Administration, marketing and rentals are stable. We would probably have had to give up planning and constructing but now the step to Interlaken has potential. I have never intended that the company grows too big, even if there were times when we could have realized double or triple as many projects – here and in the whole of Switzerland. It was important to me to keep the business manageable in order to be able to react at any given moment.

But I was more thinking about market changes than new laws.

The circumstances now forced me to give up the partitioning.

And there are indeed many interesting projects in the Jungfrau region and also many interesting other regional projects that have been proposed to us.

The different divisions work now independently under the umbrella of the GriwaGroup Holding AG. Are you stepping back now?

No, that’s not the idea. I would like to continue to support and encourage the companies, but only as long as I am useful. It is important to me to think about the succession in good time. I want to pass the companies on step by step. The people who have taken over the management of the various divisions are all long­term employees, who are highly qualified, and in whom I have full confidence. I want to support this process to the best of my abilities and to be there in a consulting manner; this makes me very happy – I think this is where the teacher comes through again.

Is it difficult to let go?

No, on the contrary – it makes me happy to let go. But, of course, this does not mean that I do not care what happens with the companies. But I have not brought anything into this world and will not take anything with me either. I rather see it like this: one can manage something for a certain time and to passing it on does not hurt, but is a logical consequence of life.

At the beginning of 2017 you reorganized your companies.

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SHW OITSESLM A N

Journey through SWITZERLAND IN AN EXTREME WAY THE SWISSMAN is a long distance triathlon without pomp and ceremony. The almost purist event puts the actual sport in the centre. The extremely challenging route leads through some of the most beautiful landscapes of Switzerland and finishes at Kleine Scheidegg.

T

he route is certainly not lacking in highlights: with the lovely lake Maggiore, the breath-taking Alpine passes, the turquoise lake Brienz and finally, the high peaks around Grindelwald. One attraction follows the other. Normal people do not usually get to see these natural wonders of Switzerland in just one day. However, the participants of the Swissman see them all – even if it is a very tough day. The strenuous journey through Switzerland starts early in the morning on the Brissago islands. As soon as the sun rises, the participants plunge into the lake and

20

swim 3.8 kilometres to Ascona. Next they traverse three Alpine passes, Gotthard, Furka and Grimsel (180 km) by bike, only then to put on their running shoes in Brienz and to round off their adventure with a marathon (42.2 kilometres).

When the participants reach their destination, the Kleine Scheidegg, they have covered not only a great distance but also climbed 5,500 metres in altitude.

Grindelwald and the Jungfrau region have made a name for themselves as venues for numerous sporting events. The landscape is made for outdoor events such as the Inferno

Above

Finally finished: Participants of the

Swissman Xtreme Triathlon at Kleine Scheidegg.

Triathlon and the Eiger Bike Challenge, which have become established traditions. For a few years now, the Eiger Ultra Trail One has been one of the highlights in trail runners’ agenda. The Swissman Xtreme Triathlon adds another pearl to these events. The organizers of the long distance triathlon are especially interested in the breath-taking natural surroundings. “Neither loudspeakers nor sales booths are to tarnish the event”, it says on the webpage.

Organisation committee president, Beat Stadelmann explains: «We want to put the focus on our

Gr in de lwald sport. The participants should take as much as possible from this experience, especially in respect of the event and camaraderie.» In concrete terms, the Swissman does not have any timekeeping, food or referees.

Loud speakers are also not used.

It is important to get on with yourself and the route. «It is about finishing the Swissman», Stadelmann explains. «Whoever reaches the finish line, regardless of their time, belongs to the Swissman family and this is forever. In order to emphasize this perception, there are no trophies or ranking lists – just a finisher list. » This focus on the route and the performance separates the Swissman from other long distance races and helps to counteract the tendency towards the technical hype and the squabbling about, for example, slipstream riding.

Stadelmann says that a time trial bike is of limited use at the Swissman. It might be beneficial for the first stretch in the south of Ticino, but the challenging pass rides can only be mastered with muscle strength. «The choice of the route is deliberate», says Stadelmann, and to a certain

extent, also predetermined by the topography of Switzerland.

«Towards the end, when the participants begin tackling the passage from Grindelwald to the Kleine Scheidegg and then all of a sudden the Eiger stands in front of them – this simply cannot be topped.»

The Swissman is part of a series of long-distance races, which have friendly ties – the Norseman in Norway and the Cletman in Scotland – the socalled allXtri Trilogy.

The 24 June 2017 sees the fifth edition of the Swissman Xtreme Triathlon.

Many people are interested in participating. The 250 starting places are raffled – nearly four times as many sportsmen and women want to start. The number of participants has to be kept low in order to preserve the family character of the sporting event. It is also important that each athlete has his or her individual support person, who takes care of the change zones in the middle of the night, the start of the swimming and all the food, as well as other tasks.

Below

The support people even accompany their athletes on the last stretch from Grindelwald Grund until the Kleine Scheidegg.

This also acts as a safety measure, as many athletes finish this last part of the race in the dark and are on the verge of exhaustion. The 250 participants are informed if they can participate in November of the previous year. This way they have ample time to prepare themselves.

Every year there are top athletes among the participants who really appreciate the spirit of the Swissman. Whether the participant is a professional, semiprofessional or an amateur – without good preparation and experience no one succeeds in finishing this literally breathtaking course from Ascona to Grindelwald.

Text: Anette Marti Fotos: Swissman

The number of participants at the Swissman is limited. The

organizers guarantee an event in a family setting.

21

SHW OITSESM L AN

"And then I JUST RAN HOME..."

He has an old-fashioned name, is 30 years young, graduated from the University of St. Gallen and lives and works in Grindelwald - UELI AMSTAD is a man of contrasts. But one thing stands above all: THE LOVE FOR SPORTS AND NATURE. This is why he took part in the SWISSMAN 2016.

Annette Marti: What made you decide to participate in a competition such as the Swissman?

Ueli Amstad: When I moved to Grindelwald, I had the idea that I could participate in the big sporting events. I call them the «Big 5» of the Bernese Oberland: Jungfrau Marathon, Inferno Triathlon, Eiger Bike Challenge, Eiger Ultra Trail and the Swissman Xtreme Triathlon.

The Swissman is a long distance triathlon – one does not register for such an event without preparation.

Certainly not, no. I had some experience with long distance, because I participated in the Ironman in Zürich in 2012.

Nevertheless, the Swissman is something completely different.

The variation in altitude alone is difficult to manage. I like to exercise during my everyday life ­ simply because I like to move and I like to be outside throughout the year. This is

22

never a chore for me. In winter I like to go on ski tours, in summer on mountain tours – I think if one can count the Mittellegi Ridge as training then this is not a bad sign of one’s fitness. I love the combinations involved – sport, fun and the experience of nature.

How do you solve the need for swim training on the Mittellegi ridge?

Well, that’s right… swimming is not my favourite discipline.

However, I knew that I have a fairly good command of the technique and that I could master the distance. I went two or three times to the swimming pool in Interlaken to see if I had the stamina for a good hour of swimming, but then I concentrated on running and cycling. On the day of the race, the swimming was actually cancelled! A storm reared in the early morning and so we went for an extra run.

Above

Ueli Amstad from Grindelwald was not sure

if he would make it to the finish line before midnight. But everything went better than expected.

What were your expectations when you began the race?

Looking at my timing plan, I thought that I could just make it before the maximum racing time at midnight. I wasn’t certain, as I did not have any reference times. But I started the whole thing relaxed. Sure, I like to measure myself and when I do a competition for the second time I know what time the stopwatch showed last time and want to do better. Nevertheless, the whole thing remains fun for me and I go to the start without pressure.

And? Did you manage to reach the finish line on the Kleine Scheidegg before midnight?

Yes, indeed! And even before – I was shortly before eight on the top. I would have never

thought that. I owe quite a bit to a colleague who accompanied me on his bike during my run and, of course, to my supporter Tina Gertsch. She ran with me on the last stretch between Grindelwald Grund and the Kleine Scheidegg and chatted a lot, which distracted me because I was dog­tired. It involves a certain amount of idiocy; you think «only» 1100 meters more to climb! But such a distance would be quite a training run on any normal day.

Although at that moment it is true – it is «only» an 1100 altitude difference and 8 kilometres because you have already come from Ticino…

The whole route is challenging, but what did you find the most difficult?

The cycling went quite ok.

However, I underestimated the distance from Meiringen to Brienz. It seemed to go on forever – you manage the three passes and you are almost there but only almost.

As I had expected, the transition to running was not so great. It

takes some time for the body to get used to it. I started the running stretch slowly, stayed patient, but from Iseltwald I nearly ran the whole way. My spirits were also good ­ at some point I saw the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau and I just though: now I just run home.

TO THE PERSON Ueli Amstad from Grindelwald, Finisher of Swissman 2016 Ueli Amstad (30) grew up in Altdorf, UR, studied business administration at the University of St. Gallen and finished with a Master of Arts HSG in business innovation. He came to Grindelwald rather by chance in December 2012 for an internship at Grindelwald Sports, the Swiss ski & mountaineering school. A brief stay turned into years, and in the meantime Ueli Amstad became the deputy­ managing director. At the moment he prefers to work in a medium sized company rather than a larger one because he likes the diversity and likes to take responsibility.

23

GR I N D E L W A L D ­ F I R S T

THRILL AND FUN on the MOUNTAIN Up with the cable car – down on a rope, on wheels or in a mountain cart. Since last summer GRINDELWALD - FIRST has offered a whole range of adventurous options that take you from the mountain station all the way down to the village. Variety and fun are guaranteed.

G

rindelwald-First, the mellow and green side of Grindelwald, has many adventures to offer. The best thing is that these adventures can be linked like a chain, and take you from the mountain station First all the way down to the village.

The Jungfraubahnen set the last stone to link the offer together in the late summer of 2016. Anyone traveling up with the First cable car can come down the complete distance in an adventurous way – flying or driving.

24

The First Flyer, which is kind of an oversized zip line, has connected the mountain station First with the mid station Schreckfeld for quite some time. The circular walk on the First Cliff Walk is recommended before the start.

This is a spectacular path which snakes around the cliff at the restaurant First, leads over a hanging bridge and then ends at a pier which extends out 45 metres into the air and allows for an unique and unsurpassable view of the mountains. The view

Above Manoeuvrable and fast to drive: the carts of the Firstbahn.

through the lattice bars gives a first impression of how it might be to fly through this world of mountains.

It is only a few steps from the Cliff Walk to the starting point of the First Flyer. There you go down fast, free like a bird, yet securely attached to the rope, rollers and a special seat. It is an exhilarating feeling to be whisked over the alpine meadows and to have

Gr in de lwald an aerial view of the world. The First Flyer covers a difference in altitude of 800 metres in lightning-speed, as top speeds of up to 84 kilometres per hour are possible. But everybody who likes to go fast will not be disappointed at Schreckfeld, as what comes next is driving fun par excellence. The mountain carts are similar to go-karts.

They are manoeuvrable, fast and can go on virtually any terrain due to their widely spaced wheels. Hydraulic brakes help drivers negotiate the three kilometre long dirt road from Schreckfeld to Bort safely. There, in the last ‘changing zone’ of this multiple sporting descent the trottibike scooters await you. With their wide footboards, the suspension forks and the large tires, they are comfortable to ride even on bumpy roads. The last stage

from Bort to the village evokes a feeling of easy cruising. The trottibike scooters are goodnatured companions: they like it fast or slow and are therefore perfect for sportive descents as well as easy strolls. But one thing should never be forgotten despite all the thrills is the position of the Grindelwald mountains on the big stage of the Bernese Oberland Alps.

These mountains cannot be seen anywhere better than from Grindelwald First.

Above At the First Flyer between Grindelwald-First and the station Schreckfeld.

Below The First Cliff Walk, a spectacular tour in airy heights.

Further information: www.jungfrau.ch/dech/grindelwaldfirst Fotos: Jungfraubahnen

25

H E LI T I O N & C U L T U R E T ROATD

A VILLAGE with many TRADITIONS About BUILDING CHALETS in Grindelwald

26

Gr in de lwald

WITNESSES OF HISTORY SPECIAL FEATURES OF THE ARCHTECTURE IN GRINDELWALD THE CHALETSTYLE has always shaped the architecture of Grindelwald. Some typical elements are still the same; others have been adapted to modern times – a crash course in local architecture.

The houses of Grindelwald tell many stories. Some of the

pipes are not compressed. In the past, houses were

facades are several hundred years old, marked by the

barely insulated, except for moss, which was often

sun and wind, somewhat askew and rather weathered.

placed between the beams to keep the wind out.

Other buildings convey a shiny image, glowing with a

Good insulation layers are indispensable today, but

new look, yet still resemble the old chalets in many

they are much easier to install behind cladding.

ways. The farmers from Grindelwald have always built

Just like in the past, many modern chalets are adorned

their houses in block construction. This involves massive

with ornaments, especially at the so­called «Stockgurt»,

squared timber beams being stacked on top of each

the connection. This is the section that kept the house

other or tucked into each other. The corners where the

together in the former method of construction. The

single wooden beams interlock (Gwättecken) are

decorative elements vary according to the carpentry;

«Many

they are, so to speak, the signature of the carpenter

elements of the block construction were transferred

and the natural expression of professional proudness.

characteristic and

of

adapted

this

for

block

today’s

construction. architecture»,

explains

The patterns on the balconies also vary from house to

of

house. What have changed dramatically over the

which

decades are the windows. In the past only small

belongs to the GriwaGroup has been following

windows were customary for thermal reasons. Now

traditional customs for years and has still been able to

large windows are being installed or roof trusses are

ensure that the chalets meet the demands of today. In

filled

the modern chalets one can still see the Gwättecken,

construction methods are for Stefan Garbani part of

but most of the time the wall is cladded rather than built

the tradition of Grindelwald: «This construction style

with block construction. Nowadays, the base level is

belongs to our valley, but I also find it important that

built from brick. «Block construction is rather complex»,

the construction methods continue to develop.»

architect

Stefan

GriwaArchitektur

Garbani, AG.

The

managing planning

director

office,

with

triangular

glass.

The

rather

uniform

says Garbani, «the wood is influenced by moisture and there are large settlements, about two to three centimetres per floor. These circumstances must be taken into account by all the companies involved in the construction,»Garbani continues, «so that, for example,

Above

Installation of the single wooden beams interlock in a chalet (left) and classic wooden ornaments on a new chalet.

27

THROATD E LI T I O N & C U L T U R E

THE HIGHLIGHT OF THE ALPINE SUMMER: ALPINE CHEESE FESTIVAL ON THE GROSSEN SCHEIDEGG When the alpine summer comes to an end, it is time to celebrate with the big alpine cheese festival on the Grossen Scheidegg. This festival originated from the annual presentation of the wheels of cheese to the cow owners, which is also called

«Chästeilet»

or «molchnen». The mountain farmers work every

day, throughout the summer, looking after the cows, milking them and producing cheese. They make the cheese with care until the special day in September when they open their cheese storage and handover the big, golden­yellowish cheese wheels to the owners. The storage facilities are lovingly decorated with fir­branches, autumn flowers and bells for the festival; there is much chatter, celebration and food. However, it is not only the farmers and mountain herdsmen that meet, many guests who are interested in the traditions of the alp, and who like to buy on the spot, also join the festival. Real connoisseurs know, alpine cheese is the best there is, but there are still many variations.

How does fresh whey cheese «Zieger» taste? Or «Mutschli»? Or how does a one or two­year old alpine cheese compare to a three­year old one? At the Alpine Cheese Festival all farm produce and other agricultural products are available for tasting. The next festival is on 16 September 2017.

Right

28

The «Käselaiber» - the pride of the alpine farmers and dairymen.

Gr in de lwald

WITH COURAGE AND KNOW HOW TO SUCCESS HOW THE GRINDELWALD FARMERS TOOK DESTINY INTO THEIR OWN HANDS If someone knows how to produce mountain cheese, then it is the farmers in Grindelwald.

Nevertheless, it is difficult to survive in the market, especially because the price paid for delivered milk has been low for many years. Therefore, the farming families of Grindelwald decided to do something about this and invested in their own small cheese factory. Eigermilch Grindelwald AG began operations at the beginning of 2011 and has since produced a number of different dairy products, which are now successfully on the market. «It was a brave decision to set up a new cheese

dairy»,

says

Hans

Peter

Baumann,

chairman of the board of directors of Eigermilch AG. «It is all the nicer to see that the development is positive». The Eigermilch AG was able to open up a market with its clear commitment to quality and tradition, sales are going well, the products made from Grindelwald mountain milk enjoy a good

reputation

and

the

dairy

processing

company is writing black figures. Bauman specifies

Above

Climber-descendant Albert Almer (left) and Eigermilch-chairman of the board

that this is only possible because of the high

Hans Peter Baumann on the occasion of the baptism of the mountaineer cheese in the Eiger's

standards and special products. Every year, the

North Face.

cheese factory in Grindelwald Grund processes around 1.5 million litres of milk delivered by 65

matured for fourteen months, and for nine of these it is stored in a rock cellar. The

farms. The products are sold in Grindelwald but

Eigermilch products are available in many shops and restaurants in Grindelwald,

also through the sales channels of Migros Aare and

amongst them Landi Grindelwald, in the VOI on the Dorfstrasse and in the dairy

in various speciality stores throughout Switzerland.

shop Gertsch.

The latest product of the Eigermilch AG is the Bergführer­Käse (mountain­guide cheese), which is

Above

www.eigermilch.ch

Eigermilch-cheese manufacturer Johann Wittwer (left) with his invention, the mountain guide cheese, which certainly not only tastes the mountain guides.

29

HIKING ­ TIPPS

MOUNTAIN TERRACES around Grindelwald THERE ARE MANY UNIQUE, BEAUTIFUL PLACES WITH BREATHTAKING VIEWS IN AND AROUND THE GRINDELWALD VALLEY. Special mountain restaurants and terraces let you enjoy and celebrate the beauty of the alpine nature.

Restaurant Pfingstegg A BALCONY invites to linger A restaurant with a cable car basically at its doorstep cannot be found everywhere. On Pfingstegg, the restaurant is only a few steps away from the top station of the cable car. You literally stumble onto the terrace – and that is not a bad thing at all. Behind you, the high rock faces rise, and in front of the tip of your toes the green meadows roll gently down into the valley. Pfingstegg also offers a toboggan run and is the starting point for many hikes. The relaxed atmosphere is particularly attractive as the cosy balcony high above Grindelwald invites visitors to linger. A dinner high above the village is a special experience. Depending on the season, the cable car also runs in the evening. www.bergrestaurant­pfingstegg.ch

Mountain Restaurant Schreckfeld In the midst of the HIKING, BIKING, and ADVENTURE AREA Reaching a mountain restaurant by air is something that is usually reserved for experienced paragliders or alpine cough. However, the restaurant Schreckfeld is different. It is situated next to the end station of the First Flyer and whoever wishes can glide through the air to the terrace where you can allow yourself to be spoiled. Hearty meals from the regionally inspired Schreckfeld cuisine will help to calm your pulse again. The First Flyer is only one of the adventures offered by the Firstbahn – there are more. The terrace of the Schreckfeld restaurant is always worth a visit, be it after the thrill of the First Flyer, a hike or a mountain bike ride. It is situated in the middle of paradise, on the sunny side of Grindelwald. For those who prefer things more serene: the cable car also stops at Schreckfeld. www.restaurant­schreckfeld.ch

30

Gr in de lwald

Glecksteinhütte Visit the HIGH ALPINE AREA The Glecksteinhütte is the only place in Grindelwald which offers a lot of high alpine feeling in a short time. The hut is situated on a rocky spur above the upper Grindelwald glacier and is the starting point for many mountain tours. The climb is challenging because the trail leads through exposed terrain.

However, those who make it to the top are in the midst of an arena of rock and ice. The view from the hut is dramatic. From the terrace you can see down to the village and over the wide slopes of First and Faulhorn to the Swiss plateau. The peaks of the great mountains of Grindelwald are within easy reach.

There is no doubt that rösti and a homemade cake taste better in this setting than anywhere else. Clever planners stay the night in this simple accommodation, but experience an absolutely luxurious location. www.gleckstein.ch

ADV. RUGENBRÄU

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HIKING­TIPPS

Restaurant Grindelwaldblick In view of EIGER, MÖNCH and JUNGFRAU The name of the restaurant is a slight understatement because you can not only see Grindelwald from the restaurant but you are in the immediate vicinity of the Eiger North Face and the imposing glacial ice avalanches underneath the Mönch and the Jungfrau.

The restaurant Grindelwaldblick is slightly hidden in a hollow above the Kleine Scheidegg within a few minutes walk from the train station. The whole backdrop of the three mountains looms majestically, impressively, intimidatingly and at the same time uniquely beautifully above. Remember to breathe when you admire with respect and awe. The terrace of the Grindelwaldblick restaurant is really nothing for the faint hearted. Such a panorama needs to be digested… www.grindelwaldblick.ch

Mountain Hotel Faulhorn Unrivalled in AGE, unrivalled in BEAUTY The real queen amongst the terraces in the Grindelwald valley is the Faulhorn. The mountain hotel is situated at 2680 meters above sea level and has a unique story.

Since 1830, guests have been entertained at the summit of the Faulhorn and it was already a must in one’s travel log back then. This is still true today.

Although no concessions are made when ascending the Faulhorn; the top can only be reached on foot.

However, the 360 panoramic view is simply stunning.

When observed from a distance, the entire range of the Bernese Oberland mountains spreads out in front of you and when the weather conditions are clear the view continues over the complete Swiss Mittelland to the Jura and even the Black Forest. A visit can be included in various hikes. It can be, for example, the highlight of the classic Schynige Platte – Faulhorn – First hike. What is highly recommended though is an overnight stay in the nostalgic rooms. www.berghotel­faulhorn.ch

32

Gr in de lwald

ADV. HOTEL KREUZ-POST

33

SUMMER ACTIVITIES

A paradise for OUTDOOR-SPORT NATURE and SPORT, these two words match to GRINDELWALD. In this valley, there are many different possibilities to go biking, hiking, and enjoy the Nature with all your sins.

34

Gr in de lwald

THEMED TRAILS AT THE MÄNNLICHEN A cow and royalty – what could these two possibly have in common? Visitors can follow the footsteps of one in the surroundings of the other, on the family mountain of Grindelwald, the Männlichen. The «Royal Walk» leads through the regal summits and on the «Liselotteweg» young and old follow the adventures of the cow Liselotte. The royal hiking trail leads from the mountain station to the top of Männlichen, an approximately 30­minute excursion through the majestic mountains. The crown­shaped lookout platform opens up a 360­degree panoramic view, which extends from the nearby triumvirate Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau, until the heights of the Jura. The Liselotte path starts at the mountain station and goes down to the middle station Holenstein. Liselotte, the famous picture book cow from Germany, spends the summer in the mountains. She travelled with her full backpack and three chicken friends from Westfalen to Grindelwald. Families and hikers can accompany this amusing travelling group and find out what happened to them during their holidays. There is a lot to discover and to try out!

Detailed route description: www.maennlichen.ch

Above

Fun for children with the cow Liselotte - on the

«Liselotte-

way» between the mountain station Männlichen and the center station Holenstein.

Rights

Royal: viewing platform on the Royal Walk from the mountain

station to the summit of Männlichen.

20 YEARS EIGER BIKE CHALLENGE The Eiger Bike Challenge in Grindelwald always takes place in August, and with approx. 1400 participants it is considered a classic by mountain­bike racers. The race is divided into three categories: the longest distance covers 88 kilometers with 3900 meters of altitude difference. The route leads in two loops, first up the Grosse Scheidegg, First and Bussalp, and then to the other side of the valley to Alpiglen, Kleine Scheidegg, Feldmoos, and Grindelwald. The medium route entails 55 kilometers with 2500 meters of altitude difference, and the short one covers a distance of 22 kilometers with 1000 meters of altitude difference. All three routes lead through beautiful mountain biking terrain, including hard climbs, technical passages, as well as lovely sections and descents. The breath­ taking mountain scenery adds a spectacular backdrop. The Eiger Bike Challenge celebrates its 20th anniversary in the summer of 2017. There will be a big trial show, a prologue through the village and, of course, a rousing anniversary party. www.eigerbike.ch Above

A highlight for mountain bikers: The Eiger Bike Challenge is

celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2017.

35

SUMMER ACTIVITIES

GLACIER GORGE GRINDELWALD Nature leaves its mark, especially in an alpine destination such as Grindelwald. The landscape around Grindelwald clearly demonstrates the impact of climate change. A spectacular example of this is the glacier. It once reached all the way down to the village, but has now receded dramatically. The forces of nature can be particularly felt in the glacier gorge. Visitors can follow the emergence of the Alps on a stunning path through the gorge, and at various stations, can gain an understanding of how the alpine world has been shaped by glaciers. The path includes a 1 kilometre long footbridge and leads through 300 metre high rock faces. The highlight of the hike is the spider’s net in the middle of the gorge. The traversable net is 170 square metres and floats above the rushing water. Anyone who scrambles onto it will find themselves in the midst of nature’s forces. An evening visit in the illuminated gorge is particularly spectacular. www.gletscherschlucht.com

Above

The accessible «spider web» in the glacier gorge

FURTHER SUMMER ACTIVITIES IN GRINDELWALD ­Oberländisches Schwingfest www.schwingfest­grindelwald.ch ­Tatort Jungfrau www.tatortjungfrau.ch ­Landart Grindelwald www.landart­grindelwald.ch ­Bergfrühlingsfest Männlichen www.maennlichen.ch ­Eiger Ultra Trail www.eigerultratrail.ch ­Inferno Triathlon www.inferno.ch ­Jungfrau Marathon www.jungfrau­marathon.ch ­OL Weltcup www.o­worldcup.ch

36

SHOP P IN G & EA T IN G

SUMMER Shopping & Eating BACKDOOR SPORTS www.backdoorshop.ch Backdoor sports has a big selection of modern sportswear, brands and many accessoires. Here you can rent or buy mountainbikes for your trip.

HOTEL ASPEN

BUTCHER'S SHOP BOSS

www.hotel-aspen.ch

Tel. +41 33 853 12 68

From the terrace of the restaurant

The «Boss­Sausage» or «Bossleni» are

Aspen, you have open view on the

well

village Grindelwald. From here you can

butcher’s shop boss. It’s worth it to visit

start several hiking tours.

the shop in the village center.

known

products

from

the

BAKERY WÜTHRICH www.gletscherbeck.ch Welcome at the

«Glacier­Bakery»,

where you can get daily fresh bread, sandwiches and desserts.

Their

special

product

ist

the

butterplait.

UNCLE TOMS CABIN

RESTAURANT PINTE

www.onkel-toms.ch

www.bellevue-pinte.ch

The

many

The common civil restaurant serves

housemade courts. Special features

little

pizzeria

offers

«classic swiss kitchen». Enjoy your stay at

are the cozy atmosphere and fresh

the sunny terrace.

quality products.

37

ADV. VILLE & CASALI

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