Pirchner Hof News Summer & Autumn 2019

SUMME R 2 01 9

Summer’s here!

Pure nature

Hildegard von Bingen: Nurture your life From happy holidays to a happy life

Celebrate the here and now

‘Europe’s most beautiful village in bloom’ is surrounded by hundreds of kilometres of trails for hiking, walking and cycling, limpid lakes, romantic ravines, lush pastures, mountain peaks and splendid views. Soak in the power of nature and enjoy wellbeing for the whole family.

The first dedicated Hildegard von Bingen hotel is home to a thoroughly appealing and holistic way of life.

Join us and embark on a journey of vitality and self-discovery based on the harmony of Hildegard’s teachings on nature, food, the seasons, the elements, exercise and relaxation.

Body, mind and soul in harmony, all your senses engaged in doing – or refraining from doing… with fasting and walking holidays, Spa and beauty treatments. From Aqua Fit to Yoga, you’ll find fresh motivation in our exercise and regeneration programme.

In Alpbachtal Seenland, Tyrol

Be more, do less

Welcome to the Pirchner Hof! Immerse yourself in crystal-clear mountain lakes. Find happiness in our pastures and mountain huts. Seek out the best views. Or simply contemplate the flowers, smell the herbs, eat naturally, enjoy being pampered and a healthier life. In harmony with the environment, the season, the four elements and above all: with yourself.

or simply indulge in the ‘beauty workshop’s’ exclusive, natural beauty treatments – feel free to try it all!

Try something new. Revisit old favourites.

And be inspired by the first dedicated Hildegard von Bingen hotel in Reith in the Alpbach Valley at the heart of Tyrol. Nestled in ‘Europe’s most beautiful village in bloom’ and surrounded by spectacular mountains.

Walk new paths with our exercise and regeneration programme and explore Hildegard von Bingen’s teachings on life and health.

Best wishes, The Peer family

At the Pirchner Hof, we live and teach her life-affirming and health-promoting philosophy – and look forward to sharing it with you. In our Hildegard garden for example, where we grow fruit, vegetables and herbs that make their way into our varied and deliciously wholesome cuisine. Or in our Spa world of wellbeing with the year-round heated outdoor pool, sunbathing lawn, garden, pond, foot massage path, indoor pool, saunas and excellent range of massages and treatments. Walk in Hildegard’s footsteps

‘Finding a balance between activity and relaxation, infusing all of your senses with the power of the Alpbachtal Seenland’s mountains and lakes – all this is balm for body, mind and soul – and can be very helpful in rediscovering the sheer joy of exercise.’

We look forward to welcoming you and hope you will find inspiration, relaxation, enjoyment and a bond with nature – even long after your return home.

‘It’s astonishing really: Hildegard von Bingen practised in the 12th century. And yet her teachings could not be more relevant today.

She focused on mindfulness, consciousness, zest for life and holistic health – as we do today at the Pirchner Hof.’ Christa Peer

Wolfgang Peer

Sunshine & a sea of flowers Summer fun in the Alpbach Valley Walk across pastures and flower meadows, along the shores of limpid mountain lakes and up to the mountain tops. Breathe deeply, enjoy the view and the fresh air: rejuvenate in the Alpbach Valley. Hike, walk, cycle, swim or simply unwind – find your favourite outdoor spot, relax in the Pirchner Hof garden or dive into the outdoor pool with a 360° view of Tyrol’s mountains. And the gnarled old fruit tree is all the invitation anyone needs for a snooze under its canopy…

Spring special 7=6 12.05 – 02.06.2019

• 7 nights for the price of 6 • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine • The Pirchner Hof’s wellbeing services • Guided walk • Walking map of the region • Complimentary backpack and walking pole hire • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €594 per person excluding local tax

ALPBACHTAL SEENLAND CARD

More holiday experiences for you!

Included with your stay at the Pirchner Hof! Free use of: • The region’s summer lifts • Regiobus buses and the Sightseeing Bus Jenbach-Stans Schwaz • Free childcare at the Juppi Kids Club Reith (MON – FRI) • Free mini golf for kids at the Kinderpark Reith im Alpbachtal • Bathing lakes and waterparks throughout the region • Museums & cultural experiences, including the Museum of Tyrolean Farms in Kramsach • Exercise & activity programme • Guided walks (MON – FRI) • And much more!

Health from the garden throughout the year

The connection to the earth is vital. It supports and nourishes us, gives us poise, courage, strength and confidence. As soon as the earth is warm enough in the spring, we begin to plant and sow flowers and herbs. At this stage in the year it is still advisable to cover the beds with fleece to encourage plant growth and provide protection against the cold. Planting and seed sowing can go on until June. Always loosen the soil again, water if necessary and reap the rewards of your labours through to late autumn!

Maria, what do you grow in the Pirchner Hof ’s herb and vegetable garden?

Our herb garden has some rare plants that many guests may not have seen before. Every plant has its own story. We grow fennel, carrots, savoy, courgette and many other varieties in the vegetable garden. It’s a short journey from the Pirchner Hof ’s garden to the kitchen – and to your plate!

What do our guests take away with them?

The courage to try new things. Many rediscover a love of gardens and nature. And, aware of ‘greenness’, they are mindful of nature.

Any tips for gardening at home?

Again, ‘less is more’. Keep the work that needs to be done within manageable bounds.

Gardens seem to grow as if by magic and

‘No tree blossoms without viriditas, no stone can do without this greening power, no being is without this quality of fecundity, living eternity itself is not without its vitality.’ Hildegard von Bingen developed the term viriditas, or ‘greenness’ to describe one of the most important sources of energy – and healing. The more of it we absorb, the better we feel!

nothing beats watching your plants thrive without pesticides, providing bees, hover flies and other useful creatures with the very best food. Don’t worry if all you have is a balcony: you can plant marigolds, nasturtiums and herbs in pots for a very attractive effect. Plus you will have something to harvest that’s really good for you and extremely aromatic.

The biggest error people make?

Doing nothing and overdoing things. The most important thing is to enjoy gardening.

And what are your favourites?

Roses – I love their beauty and scent. They are comforting and work well in oils, syrups, sugars, jellies and in sage and rose powder.

Herbs too. Simply take a sprig of rosemary in your hand and feel the energy! We also grow angelica, mullein, purple coneflower, masterwort and many more. But I’ll save all that for my herb forays!

‘The biggest mistake is… doing nothing!’

Maria Schellhorn, the Pirchner Hof’s queen of herbs, teaches our guests about the gardening year. She knows which herbs remedy which ailments.

The ‘Hildegard village’ of Reith in the Alpbach Valley is blooming!

With the Hildegard garden run by the Saint Hildegard Association, the vegetable and herb garden at the Pirchner Hof, and the treasure trove of dried herbs in the Hildegard shop, Reith is continuing Hildegard’s green legacy! And soon there’ll be a Hildegard walking trail too…

Tyrol’s first herb show garden inspired by Hildegard von Bingen Every Wednesday morning, the women of Reith’s Hildegard Association invite guests and locals to garden, weed and chat in the first Hildegard garden in Reith in the Alpbach Valley. Guided tours take place every Wednesday at 10am from mid-May to the end of September (minimum 5 participants). Personal tours can be arranged on request.

EVENT TIPS 12.06.2019

7pm, Hildegard von Bingen garden in Reith: Association meeting, ‘Energy for life – garden trees and shrubs’

04 & 11.09.2019

8pm, Reith parish hall: Association meeting, ‘Simply healthy with Hildegard medicine’

17.09.2019 The Hildegard garden is… an 800sqm tranquil oasis divided into themed areas including the heart, airways, head, joints and mind. As well as herbs, the garden features a relaxation space with a barefoot walk and massage trail, aiming to both preserve and spread Hildegard’s teachings.

Visitors… tend to be interested in natural medicine or simply wish to do something positive for themselves. The garden is often

the first step to finding greater harmony with nature.

Gardening… is becoming ever more popular as the pace of everyday life increases. It’s good to return to your roots.

Listen to your body, don’t seek out a doctor at the first cough or sneeze, and trust in the healing power of herbs – simplicity is key.

From 9am, Hildegard breakfast in the Hildegard garden – weather permitting!

23.10.2019

8pm, Reith parish hall: Association meeting, ‘People and illness’ with Dr Felicitas Karlinger

The joy of small gardens Brigitte Pregenzer, founder of the Hildegard Academy and best-selling author, shares her tips and tricks for creating your own green paradise.

By Brigitte Pregenzer, Hildegard expert and author

Even if you don’t have a garden of your own, you can make your living space blossom with a balcony and just a few pots of herbs and flowers as well as natural decorations such as driftwoood, branches and willow trellises.

Tended and nurtured by your own hands, the herbs, shrubs, spices and flowers on your balcony will feel at home and thrive, becoming a pleasure to look at, care for and harvest. The aromas of the herbs and edible flowers will also enrich your cooking.

Herbs require low-nutrient soil and shouldn’t be overwatered. Suitable choices include hyssop, chive, parsley, basil, oregano, thyme, mint, lemon balm, lemon verbena and lavender. Most shrubs also do well in large pots.

Flowers meanwhile mostly require a weekly (natural) fertiliser and plenty of water. Seed mixes will also flourish in large, deep pots and will attract a wide variety of insects.

Nasturtiums are rewarding, add a wonderful dash of colour, and their flowers enhance the taste and look of any salad. Roses are also easy to care for, adding a delightful fragrance to the air. Ask your retailer which variety is best for your balcony. And don’t forget to add a seat from which to enjoy your natural oasis!

Let’s get growing!

• Pick and harvest plants for your larder in dry weather, ideally first thing in the morning.

• Harvest herbs on the moon calendar’s fertile days (Aries, Leo & Sagittarius) and store when the moon is waning.

• Dig up roots in the autumn or very early spring when they still have or are regaining their strength. They will develop their healing powers only if planted in very large pots.

• Store in a dark, dry spot, ideally in paper bags or dark glass jars.

Hildegard taster days Allow us to introduce Hildegard von Bingen: the newcomer’s package gently acquaints you with Hildegard’s philosophy.

05.05 – 27.10.2019 4 nights Sunday to Thursday, or 3 nights Thursday to Sunday Hildegard just for me – our newcomer’s package: • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine with Hildegard nutrition for dinner • 1 x St John’s wort body pack (40 mins) – calms the muscles and nerves and pacifies an agitated mind • 1 x copper bristle brush massage (50 mins) – stimulates energy channels • Talk on Hildegard von Bingen • Copy of Brigitte Pregenzer’s book (in German) From €414 per person excluding local tax

The healing power of food Regional, seasonal, delicious and healthy: chef Dusko Petrovic and his team invite our guests – and nature – to the table.

‘The Hildegard diet is all about balance and quality. We have taken this to heart by using ingredients from our own garden and farm as well as from regional organic food producers’, he says. As chef de cuisine and a connoisseur and nature lover, he’s the right person to ask.

‘Many of our dishes, salads and herbs are based on Hildegard von Bingen’s nutritional teachings and are marked accordingly.’ His favourites? ‘Difficult to say. After all, most herbs have a healing effect – and taste delicious! But as it gets warmer, I really appreciate the cleansing and detoxifying effect of nettles – cooked just like you would spinach – and wormwood.’

OUR EXTENDED HALF BOARD Look forward to: • Breakfast buffet with special Hildegard dishes • Healthy afternoon snack • Tea bar • 4-course Hildegard-inspired dinner with choices

Tip: If you would like to learn

more about Hildegard von Bingen’s teachings on herbs, feel free to attend Christa Peer’s weekly lecture.

Walking for fun far & wide Adventure and themed walks for families, meadow walks for nature lovers and summit hikes for sporty types – with hundreds of kilometres of hiking and mountain trails, our region offers perfect routes for all.

The Pirchner Hof’s regular guests’ week Feel free to come along and get a taste of the Pirchner Hof holiday experience.

16.06 – 23.06.2019

Hildegard said that ‘Human beings owe sight to fire, hearing to air, movement to water, and the ability to walk to earth’.

This means that we are replenished by the four elements every time we take a stroll in the natural world.

• 7 nights • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine • The Pirchner Hof’s wellbeing services • Varied programme of events, excursions and culinary extravaganzas • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €602 per person excluding local tax

...with guided themed walks Energetic mountain hiking weeks 02.06 – 06.10.2019

• 7 nights • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine • The Pirchner Hof’s wellbeing services • Guided walks: summit hikes, herb forays, pasture walks • Walking map of the region • Complimentary backpack and walking pole hire • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €665 per person excluding local tax

Mountain hiking and Alpine flora 4=3

OUR HIGHLIGHT: 21.09 & 28.09.2019:

Farmers’ market in Reith with cattle drive and fair. Activities begin at 10am as the centre of the village becomes one big stage!

05.05 – 16.08.2019 & 01.09 – 25.10.2019 Available Sunday to Thursday or Monday to Friday • 4 nights for the price of 3 • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine • The Pirchner Hof’s wellbeing services • Walking map of the region • Complimentary backpack and walking pole hire • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card From €297 per person excluding local tax

Soak in the power of nature Take a wonderful walk in the Alpbach Valley with herb expert Maria Schellhorn, watch the sun rise on the Gratlspitze or experience the ‘Kitzalp24’ 24-hour hike on 13 and 14 July… One region, a thousand possibilities! Hosts Christa and Wolfgang Peer – a state-certified fitness instructor and coach – reveal what inspires them.

Climbing: Add variety to

your mountain adventures by climbing along the region’s via ferratas. They include the ‘Rofan 5-peak tour’, the via ferrata at the Reintaler See and the high ropes course in Kramsach – and cater for a range of abilities.

Cycling: More than 20

Our favourite hike…

Obviously, we have many favourite spots, but we’re particularly fond of the Farmkehralm (1,517m) in Inneralpbach. There are several ways to get there, and all of them offer superb views of the surrounding Kitzbühel Alps. At the top, a cosy, rustic hut awaits with friendly service and typical Tyrolean dishes.

On a hiking holiday, I always take… comfortable hiking boots with a good tread, a light rucksack, rain jacket, small first aid kit, a water bottle, walking poles and sun cream.

A quick and easy walk… to the Böglalm for Maria’s mountain breakfast – always a pleasure and the views are great!

Our hiking treat is… galangal tablets! They stimulate the circulation and strengthen the cardiovascular system.

Walking… grounds us, connects us with nature, sends the soul soaring, makes us happy… as well as strengthening the cardiovascular system and burning calories!

GET MOVING IN THE ALPBACH VALLEY!

official mountain bike trails, 5 tarmacked road-racing routes and family-friendly cycle trails along the River Inn.

Water sports: Family-

friendly outdoor swimming pools, several bathing lakes (including Lake Reith, Lake Reintaler, Lake Krummsee and Lake Berglsteiner), wild water swimming and rafting along crystal-clear mountain streams and romantic ravines.

Perfect coaching

Yoga & hiking fun with Christiane Sasse

As well as being a state-certified fitness instructor and coach, host Wolfgang Peer also knows how to help the most dedicated couch potato rediscover all the joy of exercise, improve their health and become more mindful of their bodies.

29.05 – 02.06.2019

• 4 nights • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine • The Pirchner Hof’s wellbeing services • 3-4 Yoga sessions, talks and 90-120-minute meditations per day • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €664 per person excluding local tax

Balance to body, mind and soul The practice of Yoga’s holistic philosophy enhances body awareness and mindfulness for harmony, relaxation, strong muscles and joints, increased flexibility and suppleness.

Enjoy selected breathing exercises and posture, accompanied by deeply relaxing meditations.

Experienced, empathetic and highly knowledgeable, Christiane Sasse inspires and supports her Yoga students.

THE PIRCHNER HOF EXERCISE AND REGENERATION PROGRAMME • Aqua Fit • ‘smovey’ • Back exercises • Foot fitness • Kneipp pool • Hiking • Nordic walking • Mountain biking • Yoga

Rebalance your body & life with Christiane Sasse 29.08 – 01.09.2019

• 3 nights • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine • The Pirchner Hof’s wellbeing services • 3-4 exercise sessions, talks and 90-120-minute meditations per day • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €563 per person excluding local tax

Less is more Why fast? There are many answers to this question: It helps us let go and focus on essentials. Releases us from physical and emotional burdens. Helps us to be open towards unexpected aspects of ourselves – and of life.

Fasting – the holistic remedy.

Why not take some time out for peace and tranquillity and do yourself some good. Our ‘gentle Hildegard fast’ includes three small meals a day and can be followed by anyone.

It’s enjoyable, effective, enlightening and exciting as it sharpens our perception, sensitises body awareness, and helps us let go of the things that trouble us. Holistic fasting relieves stresses of all kinds and facilitates the journey within.

Innovative and natural: the ‘beauty workshop’ As the Pirchner Hof ’s Spa, beauty and cosmetics manager, Tina Peer harnesses nature’s power by using only natural products. Her combination of traditional treatment methods and organic biotechnology creates results you can both see and feel.

Rosalpina by Piroche Cosmétiques is the answer to maintaining youthful skin.

Containing only the most exquisite organic ingredients, Rosalpina protects the skin against ageing. Alpine rose, buddleia, marigold, chamomile, arnica and other ingredients are combined with natural mountain spring water to create a feeling of lightness.

Massada The Natural Therapy offers a wide range of natural and mineral products based on over 30 years of experience. The combination of organic biotechnology and natural extracts leaves your skin feeling fresh and radiant.

Tip: Book your treatments

before arrival by calling +43 (0)660 6689 600 or sending an email to die.Verschoenerei@gmail.com

Fasting full board Spelt bread, a lunch of fasting soup or leafy salad with spelt grains, spelt semolina soup, heart wine, chestnut honey, galangal, pellitory, psyllium, fennel tea and lunch on Saturday. Spelt and Hildegard’s healing herbs and spices strengthen the immune system, stimulate the metabolism and cleanse the blood, lungs, liver, kidneys, gut and skin.

SPECIAL PACKAGE Only bookable when making a room reservation!

• 1 purifying body wrap • 1 lymphatic drainage • 1 copper bristle brush massage at a special price of €130

Fasting week with Christa Peer 12.05 – 19.05.2019 Fasting weeks always start on Sundays. After a meeting at 5pm we take our first fasting soup.

BASIC PACKAGE

• 7 nights • 6 x fasting full board • 1 x Hildegard nutrition • Daily DIY liver compress and foot bath • Daily baldmoney pear honey • Daily morning or evening meditation • The fasting group meets every day to share their experiences • 3 talks on a range of Hildegard topics • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €665 per person excluding local tax

‘What comes to mind when I think about fasting is not even a whole sentence, but simply: freedom from... and freedom for!’

Felicitas Karlinger, Hildegard physician, expert and ambassador

Fasting week with Dr Felicitas Karlinger 20.10 – 27.10.2019 Fasting weeks always start on Sundays. After a meeting at 5pm we take our first fasting soup.

BASIC PACKAGE

‘Fasting adds new aspects to your life because consciously choosing abstinence from the foods and things we don’t need creates space. ‘Finding the right measure’ sensitises us so that we can easily embrace a healthier lifestyle.’

Christa Peer, host and Hildegard von Bingen fasting professional

• 7 nights • 6 x fasting full board • 1 x Hildegard nutrition • Daily DIY liver compress and foot bath • Daily baldmoney pear honey • Daily morning or evening meditation • The fasting group meets every day to share their experiences • 3 talks on a range of Hildegard topics • One-to-one consultations available on request • Daily exercise and regeneration programme (excluding Sundays) • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €763 per person excluding local tax

A dazzling delight Stroll through Tyrol’s most beautiful Christmas markets. Revel in the medieval Christmas magic of Rattenberg. Harness the power of Raunächte. Celebrate a Tyrolean Alpine Christmas amidst snowcovered mountains and local traditions. Spend time together at the Pirchner Hof.

Tyrolean Christmas at the Pirchner Hof 18.12 – 26.12.2019

• 4 or 7 nights • Extended half board comprising wholesome cuisine • The Pirchner Hof’s wellbeing services • Advent reception with punch and home made biscuits • 22 Dec: A contemplative torchlight walk with Tyrolean Christmas stories • 23 Dec: The door-to-door buskers are here!

A tale of travellers in search of refuge, presented by members of the Reither choir.

• 24 Dec: Christmas Eve – Tyrolean family Christmas celebration followed by a festive dinner • 25 Dec: Christmas Day – gala dinner with zither music • The Alpbachtal Seenland Card

From €510 per person excluding local tax (4 nights) or from €825 excluding local tax (7 nights)

Ski season is finally here!

In Tyrol’s top ski resort for families and children – and one of Austria’s most attractive winter destinations: Ski Juwel Alpbachtal Wildschönau.

Everything you need to know at a glance Useful information All our rooms are non-smoking, with a shower or bath, WC, hairdryer, telephone, radio and cable TV. Bathrobes and towels are available for the duration of your stay.

•S pend less: Stay 14 nights or more and receive a 7% accommodation discount!

•B ed & breakfast only: Minus €11 per person/night •D ogs: €10 per day, food not included. Only one dog permitted per room. Please note that dogs are not allowed in the restaurant, Spa and beauty or garden areas.

•A rrival and departure: Your room will be ready from 2pm on your day of arrival.

Please vacate the room by 10am on your day of departure. Late check-outs are available for a surcharge.

Room rates 2019/2020

Prices per person/night with extended half board and the Pirchner Hof‘s wellbeing services, excluding local tax (€2 pp/pn) Spring Autumn

Summer 07.07 – 22.09.19

05.05 – 07.07.19 22.09 – 27.10.19

Christmas New Year 22.12.19 – 05.01.20

Low season

Winter

15.12 – 22.12.19 05.01 – 26.01.20 01.03 – 29.03.20

26.01 – 16.02.20

Winter high season 16.02 – 01.03.20

Small single room main building

€99

€106

€147

€108

€116

€128

Double room (single occupant) main building

€119

€126

€167

€128

€136

€148

Double room main building

€99

€106

€147

€108

€116

€128

Double room country house

€105

€112

€153

€114

€122

€134

Wellbeing suite (52sqm)

€119

€126

€167

€128

€136

€148

Family dream suite (sleeps 3)

€357

€378

€501

€384

€408

€444

Family dream suite (sleeps 4)

€435

€464

€624

€472

€504

€552

Children under 14

€62

€73

€85

€58

€62

€65

Children under 18

€71

€81

€101

€78

€83

€86

Children in their own room:

Children sharing with parents with extra bed: Aged 0-5: free Aged 6-13: double room €30, suite €35 Aged 14-17: double room €40, suite €45

Double room in the main building with wooden floors Double room in the country house building

Pirchner Hof Hotel & Farm

Neudorf 42 . 6235 Reith im Alpbachtal . Austria . Tel. +43 5337 62749 Fax +43 5337 62749 88 . info@pirchnerhof.at . www.pirchnerhof.at www.facebook.com/pirchnerhof

•R eservation: To confirm your booking, we request that you pay a 10% deposit or the total price of your holiday. Credit card information is required for short term bookings.

•P ayment options: A 10% deposit or payment in full is required upon booking.

The balance may be paid in cash or with EC, Visa, MasterCard, American Express or Diners Club cards.

Cancellation policy: •U p to 1 month prior to arrival date: Free cancellation •3 0 to 14 days prior to arrival date: 40% of the booking price •1 4 to 7 days prior to arrival date: 70% of the booking price •7 to 0 days prior to arrival date: 90% of the booking price We will be delighted to advise you personally and help you tailor your stay with one of our year-round health packages or seasonal programmes. Simply call us on +43 5337 62749.

Double room in the main building with carpets

Every care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of this information.

Errors and typing/printing mistakes reserved. ©marketing-deluxe.at Photos: Pirchner Hof Wolfgang Peer, Christoph Hitsch, Jack Coble

www.alpbachtal.at