Höhenluft 2014 - Englisch

Höhenluft The Mayrhofen-Hippach Holiday Resort Magazine

2014/ Euro 5.–

Photo credit: Sven Bänziger

Michael Mittermeier backstage

This edition of Höhenluft meets living legends, embraces old tradition and introduces brand new trends. www.mayrhoƒen.at

Ć’all.com d n a e s i r . w ww

Editorial

Photo credit: Paul Sürth

Höhenluft

Dear Reader,

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ayrhofen-Hippach Holiday Region is full of contrasts. Beginning in the valley, with its’ diverse examples of architecture, from traditional farmhouses to the contemporary Europahaus, up in the mountains with rustic alpine lodges, or the architectural highlight – Freiraum. The region offers manna from heaven for all tastes, whether hiking in the Zillertal Alps Nature Park, cycling in one of the idyllic tributary valleys or stopping off for refreshments on Leisure Mount Ahorn, while intrepid skiers hurtle down the Harakiri Piste on Mount Penken. The party atmosphere and cool sounds at the annual Snow-bombing music event or the “Zillertal Schlager-Pop Night of the Year” with stars such as Hansi Hinterseer and Semino Rossi; just some of the contrasts that make our region so very unique.

Andreas Lackner, Managing Director Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board

Some experiences, however, are more elusive.

With that in mind, this magazine was created for you. To provide you with a peek behind the scenes at the many adventures that can be enjoyed here in both summer and winter. This allows you to not only gather your own experiences and insights, but learn more about the many different backgrounds.

Some great tips have also been included. An exclusive look behind the scenes, for example, at the Altitude Comedy Festival - usually only possible with expensive backstage passes. Take your time to browse through this magazine and join us for a while in one of the most beautiful places in the world – Mayrhofen-Hippach Holiday Region.

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06 Spectacular winter opening

The RISE&FALL extreme sporting event enters its second year

12 The new Penkenbahn lifts

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An innovative and unrivalled new construction is in the starting blocks

14 Full speed ahead

Anna und Rosina Schneeberger on their way to the forefront of the Ski World Cup

16 Piste pleasures on Mount Ahorn

The leisure mountain has everything a skier‘s heart could possibly desire

18 Stalking around

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Hunter Max Dornauer and his passion for wild game

20 Favourite wild game recipes

Angela Troppmair opens the lid on her cooking secrets

22 Zillertal „Doggln“

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The best answer to cold feet. Felt slippers handmade by Maria Hanser

24 The magic of cross country skiing by night

Indulge in the popular sport of cross country skiing under the stars

26 On tour in nature

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Ski touring in backcountry terrain is booming like never before

32 Pure Mittermeier

The „Altitude Comedy Festival“ star gives us a peek behind the scenes

Höhenluft 36 Open your eyes!

Trained guardians of the landscapes raise awareness for nature

38 Star without airs and graces

Marc Pircher, who was born for the stage, will host the „Schlager Night of the year“

40 The talented „Emperor“

Franz Eberharter – A portrait of this jack of all trades and (life) artist

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44 40 years on stage

Erwin Aschenwald, creative mind of the „Mayrhofner“, in an anniversary interview

46 Rare handicraft

The quill embroidered „Ranzen“ belt, an indispensable part of the Zillertal costume

48 High flyer

Mountain Guide Climbing World Cup Victory - the zenith of a mountain freak

52 Dedicated to edelweiss

Antler carver, Thomas Rauch, breathes new life into stag horn

54 Pedalling in unison

The Thülig Family pedal their triplet through the world in perfect harmony

56 Legends Trail

Follow in his world famous footsteps, along the new Peter-Habeler-Route

58 Football stars up close

VfB Stuttgart will be training at Linden Stadium in Hippach in summer 2014

Impressum Upcoming Events

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RISE&FALL II. on 14th December 2013 –

Season opening in true Mayrhofen style The weather gods did not bestow any particular favours on the premiere in 2012, but the cold and wet conditions could do nothing to dampen the fine sporting performances and excellent entertainment programme in Mayrhofen. So now it is curtains up for the season opening event second time round, where the sporting opportunities presented by the Mayrhofen-Hippach holiday region are reflected in a special show of superlatives and an exciting competition.

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Photo credit: Dominic Ebenbichler, Michael Werlberger

Höhenluft

RISE&FALL

Mayrhofen will be transformed for a second time into a giant show stage both up on the mountain and down in the valley for this season opening event. After the sporting and, probably unique in this form, extreme spectacle of

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irst off: All 50 starting positions were taken by August, which obviously means the interest of the athletes to compete and compare themselves against the best of the best is immense again. Last year - with only 30 available starting positions - 15 teams had to be consoled with the promise of participation this year.

Even with the increased quota of starting places, the maximum was reached immediately, which impressively underlines the high acceptance levels of this unconventional and tough sporting event.

Four people, one team and no mercy – is the motto of this spectacular and extraordinary competition,

RISE&FALL and subsequent live concert in the event which heralds the start of the winter season in the Mayrhofen-Hippach holiday region. Touring skiers and mountain bikers climb the 410 metres in vertical drop to the start point on the Mayrhofen Action Mountain, Mount Ahorn (=RISE) – paragliders and skiers or snowboarders hurtle back down the slope again (=FALL). In a relentless race against time and opposing teams, the athletes have to give it their all, whether uphill or downhill.

Höhenluft, in an interview with project manager and RISE&FALL inventor, Christoph Ebenbichler: qualified sports scientist and former World Cup ski-cross racer.

grounds, owners of the local watering holes invite you to join the big party.

Tickets for the winter opening are available under www.riseandfall.com or from Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board, www.mayrhofen.at

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Photo credit: Dominic Ebenbichler, Julia Türtscher

And the Winners are ...

Over the following pages, a short biography on the athletes from the 2012 winning team, who will be returning to the starting blocks on the 14th December 2013 to defend their RISE&FALL title.

Christoph Ebenbichler can look back with pride on his „baby“ RISE&FALL.

Höhenluft:

How would you sum up the pre-

miere event?

Christoph

Ebenbichler: The first RISE&FALL was a truly successful sporting event and participants raved about it afterwards. When „Sportfreunde Stiller“ took to the stage we counted 2,500 visitors and the positive mood could be felt all over Mayrhofen. The change in the weather was simply force majeure; there‘s nothing you can do about it.

Höhenluft: Will changes be made to the programme in light of last year‘s experiences?

Christoph Ebenbichler:The format will be more compact – so the start will now be at 14.00 hrs, two hours later than last year. Furthermore, the

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event venue will be moved from the old Ahorn lift area to the current base station of the Ahorn lifts.

This year visitors will be entertained on the music front by just one supporting band, CIELA, and „Revolverheld“ , as the main act.

Höhenluft: Will the After-Show-Party be happening again?

Christoph Ebenbichler: Yes, all Mayrhofen is involved with RISE&FALL. The whole town will be declared a party-zone at 18 hrs, which all the restaurants, bars and clubs are involved in and demonstrates a united front for this season opener.

After the purely sporting event on Mount Ahorn, the imminent winter-season will be celebrated everywhere in town.

Photo credit: Airdesign, www.fly-cook-film.at

Höhenluft

The daring air acrobat Mayrhofen man, Patrick Hörhager born in1986, inherited his passion for flying from his father - who used to manage the Zillertal Flying School. He still trains predominantly with his father and works at the family-owned sports shop, which he will probably take over in a few years time. Unless, of course, he happens to be in the air ...

Because that is where Patrick, who flew solo for the first time at the tender age of six (!) years old, spends every spare minute of his time. Not least to ensure he is perfectly prepared for the second RISE&FALL event. „Competition was definitely fierce in 2012 the worlds very best met to compete in Mayrhofen, including Olympic medallists and world champions and it won‘t be any different this year“, Patrick has the greatest respect for the upcoming event.

In addition to this training, he is pursuing his goal of competing at the Red Bull X-Alps in 2015, the world‘s toughest paragliding competition. Starting from Salzburg, participants have to reach ten various check points - distributed among the highest mountains in Austria, Switzerland and France, by air or on foot before heading to the finishing line in Monaco. The current record is an astonishing six days (the race duration is limited to a maximum of 21 days), and Patrick‘s greatest wish would be just to get over the finishing line in Monaco. „You need to be very well acquainted with the inner-alpine regions and in top form. I have been training for it now for five years“, Patrick explains his plans for the future - which he hopes to achieve backed up by two support staff for massages, thermals, weather and food.

The former slalom and giant slalom skier had to give up his racing career because of injury. „Flying is much better for the ligaments anyway“, he no longer mourns his thwarted alpine ski ambitions and has plunged boldly into new adventures. Such as AcroFlying (flying acrobatic manoeuvres) where he came fifth in the Austrian Championships in synchronised flying with Zillertal colleague, Tobias Wechselberger, and fifth in the world rankings. The fact that training involves 40 flights a week and Patrick can therefore, „only do it on the side“ is just something we will mention in passing ...

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Photo credit: privat

The „Racehorse“ on two wheels Athlete Alban Lakata, is a specialist in mountain bike marathons. Born in 1979 in Lienz/East Tyrol, he turned pro in 2005 and is currently a member of the German professional team, Topeak Ergon (based in Koblenz), from which he is sponsored and supported.

He competes in 30 races per season all over the world, was world champion in 2010, European champion for the second time in 2013, and Austrian champion several times over, yet he was not considered to be one of the favourites at last year’s RISE&FALL event: „For one thing, this is an uphill race and my strength actually lies in fast ascents and descents. Also, I normally only start firing on all cylinders somewhat later in a race and here in Mayrhofen, we only had 20 minutes between the start and the finishing line. Not my style at all, in fact completely contrary to what I normally do and therefore a major challenge. But I was having a good day and was fully motivated after an intensive training period. Be that as it may, it was definitely a bit of a gamble. I am delighted that it paid off, and despite not exactly ideal weather conditions - but a great winter cross-bike

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- I was able to achieve the fastest time of the day.“ Alban Lakata, who describes himself as a racehorse, will be in Mayrhofen for the season-opening event and second RISE&FALL with the clear objective of defending last year’s victory. It is a question of (sporting) honour, of course.

By the way: Mountain bike marathons have as distance of between 80 to 120 kilometres and take around four hours to complete – very dependant, of course, on the number of altitude metres and terrain involved. In the USA, the marathon distance is usually a formidable 100 miles (equivalent to 160 kilometres).

Training intensity naturally increases during the largely race-free winter months, with long training days of around six hours of pure cycling, an important regeneration phase, massages and focus on the right nutrition. One of the current objectives is the 2014 World Championships which (after being held in Austria in 2013) will be held in South Africa.

A training plan that he is more than willing to interrupt in December for the welcome contrast of participating in the spectacular RISE&FALL ...

Photo credit: Michael Neumann

Höhenluft

Freethinker of the snow lands Roman Rohrmoser, born in 1985, who grew up in and still lives - when not travelling - in Ramsau, has been a freeriding devotee since the very first moment this popular sport burst onto the scenes. Infected ten years ago by this incomparable feeling of freedom on two wide skis, Roman turned pro five years ago. As there is (still) no official representing association, contracts are made directly with the sponsors and he organises his own training, with his private trainer and freeski colleague, Christoph Ebenbichler (RISE&FALL organiser) at the Sportmed Centre in Ramsau.

This freeskier is not only full of ambition on the sporting front, but also on the professional side. The qualified machine and tool maker, as well as mechatronics engineer with master’s certificate continued his education at evening school and began a degree in mechanical engineering, which he didn’t quite finish because of missing attendance levels – Plan B is therefore to complete this at some juncture, if and when his freeride career is no longer working out. There is no question of that happening at the moment, testified by starting positions worldwide in Alaska, Chile, Japan, Iceland and the entire Alpine region, in Switzerland, France and, of

course, back home in Mayrhofen. The summer months are spent training in climbing and biking closer to home, before Roman returns to Chile for the snow and training opportunities offered there in early autumn.

Now it is time again to rise to the challenge of RISE&FALL in Mayrhofen and justify his role as favourite and successfully defend last year’s title – whatever the weather! „Everyone has to give what they have got in a team event, a single good athlete can accomplish nothing“, Roman Rohrmoser defines the great challenges presented by this field of top contestants - against whom all participants must be prepared to be measured against.

Just as one would expect of this ambitious young freerider, he also has Plan C up his sleeve: He passed the hunter’s license aged 18 and four years later officially qualified as a gamekeeper – more strings to his bow for the future, as far as he is concerned. „Who knows, if things carry on the way they have been with the Euro, we may need to be self-sufficient again one day ...“, says Roman with a grin and, with his proven talents and zeal, will undoubtedly be one of the last men standing should the situation arise.

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Photo credit: Mayrhofner Bergbahnen AG, Hofer

The Penkenbahn floating into the future.

Innovative flights of fancy: The new Penkenbahn lifts Mayrhofner Bergbahnen AG Cable Car Co. has always been at the cutting edge of technology and therefore a trail blazer for cable car enterprises.

True to this credo, large scale investments are in the starting blocks: The new Penkenbahn will rewrite cable car history all over again.

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Mag. Michael Rothleitner, Director of the Mayrhofner Bergbahnen AG.

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e all know that stagnation means regression – and standing still is something the Mayrhofner Bergbahnen could never be charged with! Guests can look forward to even brighter times with the planned new construction on Action Mountain Mayrhofen. Sports enthusiasts and summer walkers can take advantage of the neighbouring Horbergbahn lifts in Schwendau/ Hippach to access Mount Penken quickly and conveniently during the construction period.

Mayrhofen vacationers, amongst others, can look forward to a new era of modern cable car comfort and technology with groundbreaking conveyance capacities from, when all goes to plan, the 2015/16 winter season.

HĂśhenluft chatted to trained attorney, Michael Rothleitner; President of the Bergbahnen since April 2009 after several years as Vice-President of the Supervisory Board, about events surrounding the forthcoming restructuring.

Höhenluft

The future Penkenbahn

The first Penkenbahn was built as a reversible aerial tramway in1953 and converted to the existing 2-cable-car in 1995, 2,000 people can be currently transported per hour.

The new 3-cable-car operates with two supporting cables

The planned new base station has not only architectural potential.

and one haul cable using a so-called continuous gondola system, with room for 32 people per cabin, 28 of which seated. In future, around 3,900

Höhenluft: What impact will the new Penkenbahn have on Mayrhofen?

of engineering. Do you aspire to add another chapter?

Michael Rothleitner:

Michael Rothleitner:

We want to offer our guests a quality skiing experience. Sporting developments have meant that we are now faced with new challenges. 15 years ago people wanted moguls (and two linear metres per turn), which has been superseded by the carving trend and the desire for turns with a 30 m radius, which is almost a threat to families. We cannot „pump“ unlimited numbers of people onto the pistes, instead we should find solutions to the question of: „How many skiers is there room for?“ Fact is that we have reached our limits of capacity – but we can certainly improve quality with regards to conveyance capacity, particularly for descents to the valley as well as in service and comfort.

Construction of the new Penkenbahn will also have ramifications on the entire village with regards to a potential increase in the number of beds available, which is why a common strategy is necessary. It is important to have balanced quality standards - the new Penkenbahn should therefore assume the role of a perfectly functioning valve between the activities offered on the mountain and those in the village.

Höhenluft:

The Penkenbahn wrote cable car history in 1995 with its’ high standards

The new lifts will be another world first with a superlative conveyance capacity and maximum comfort in the stations and cabins - wide double width doors for easy entry and exit, as well as 28 flexible seats.

An improvement in quality for children especially, as they will no longer have to face a rear view of the adults.

Höhenluft:

guests can be transported per hour back down to the valley.

Preparations are underway for the construction of the upper station in the summer of 2014. The lifts will be out of service during summer 2015 – Mount Penken can be accessed using the Horbergbahn lifts during this period! Following construction

The bottleneck at Mayrhofen railway station – how is the expected onslaught of visitors going to be dealt with?

of a new base station (at the

Michael Rothleitner:

should commence operations

The implementation of a new railway station with new tracks and generous space for the integration of bus services – summer and winter - has been agreed by the local authorities and an attractive ski bus concept including the development of a new route for the glacier is in the planning phase. Fourteen buses leaving in one direction from the station will provide smooth and quick transport for guests heading to the Penkenbahn lifts. Without this new hub at the railway station, the Penkenbahn construction could not be realised.

existing site) and support tower 1, the new Penkenbahn in the 2015/16 winter season.

Thus ensuring the descent in particular from Action Mount Penken to the valley, is faster, hassle-free and with maximum comfort. www.mayrhofner-bergbahnen.com

www.mayrhofen.at

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Anna (left.) and Rosina Schneeberger on their way to joining the ranks of the world‘s best

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Höhenluft

Full speed ahead ...

Life in the fast lane Those who have loved growing up in the snow (Schnee) on the mountains (Bergen) and have taken their passion for skiing as far as the European and World Cups, can only really go under the name of „Schneeberger“ ... Just like Anna and Rosina, who are taking the ski world by storm from their hometown in the Mayrhofen-Hippach holiday region.

With a surname like that they are almost obliged to live up to all it entails!

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nna, born in 1993 may be a year older than her younger sister, Rosina, but the two could actually be twins when you look at their history – so parallel are the paths of these two young ladies, who are dedicated to pursuing a career in ski sport.

First attempts on skis at the age of four and a half, local junior school followed by a specialist ski sports high school in Neustift, then completion of the Baccalaureate at Stams „Skigymnasium“. First racing experiences aged six and seven years (with a big teddy bear as „prize“), the first Student County Cup, enrolment in the county youth squad, FIS races Austria-wide with first competitive experiences against racers from other nations, inclusion in the Austria Ski Fed youth squad; Anna and Rosina‘s history reads like that of a textbook ski racer.

Their lives consist of gruelling training all year round and a constant requirement to be on top form (only in spring to they get a short break to „chill out“), yet they are fully committed, displaying an incredible will to succeed. They work with a fitness coach six times a week during the summer – which recently has had to be completed worldwide, like in September when they were in New Zealand.

Papa Schneeberger, a former ski instructor and constant presence in the early days of their sporting careers, even servicing their skis himself, is an avid supporter at the races he can get to. „Stay relaxed“ is the motto he taught his girls to live by from an early age, in order to alleviate any counterproductive stress and pressure. We could always rely our

... on their favourite Mount Penken

parent‘s support; otherwise we would never have got this far, chime the speedy ski duo in unison.

Both are all-round talents, race in technical and speed disciplines and are delighted to have made it into top international rankings, such as bronze in Super-G at the Junior World Championships in Quebec (Rosina) and the European Cup top ten.

Unfortunately, an injury (torn cruciate ligament with long term consequences) called a halt to Anna‘s string of successes and put her out of action for the last two years. She will be celebrating a come-back to the sport in the 2013/14 season and can start training with the C squad. In the meantime, Rosina has made it into the B squad, although the two of them have differing goals for the coming season.

While Anna hopes to remain injury free and that her knee doesn‘t let her down, enabling her to compete in the European and World Cup in 2014, her „little“ sister Rosina, wants to ski even better than last year, be a constant presence at World Cup races and win an Olympic medal – or at least secure a coveted start bib. The Schneeberger girls are in total agreement about their final goal – they want to be contenders for the next Olympics or World Championships ...

Even though their role models include Lindsay Vonn, who constantly delivers top performances, or Marlies Schild, who has often bounced back after injury to the top of the rankings, Anna and Rosina have enough self confidence to stress: „We are who we are, and we go our own way,“ hopefully accompanied by good health.

Ski stars on Mount Penken Anna und Rosina Schneeberger are following in the footsteps of famous skiers from Zillertal, such as Stephan Eberharter, who won the overall World Cup twice, was Olympic champion and three time world champion. Penken in Mayrhofen has always been the favourite resort for the two ski racers. According to them it offers unrivalled skiing - and these girls should know, as they have experienced many slopes, all over the world... www.mayrhofen.at

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Pleasure skiing on their favourite Mount Ahorn: Helen und Mike Pramstraller, without helmets just this once for the benefit of the photo shoot!

Pure pleasure for piste lovers Mount Ahorn certainly lives up to its Leisure Mountain name.

Helen and Mike Pramstraller come from two very different worlds, yet they met in Mayrhofen and would like to share their unconditional love and passion for “their� Mount Ahorn with all other piste loving pleasure skiers.

Try for yourselves - the side effects can be extremely positive ...

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Höhenluft

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hile Mayrhofen born and bred Mike Pramstraller has been skiing the slopes of Mount Ahorn since early childhood days and knows the mountain like the back of his hand, Helen encountered a few detours before being able to make its acquaintance.

Born in Norwich in the East of England, she studied business economics and German, before working in Austria for five years as a tour guide – ending up at the Mayrhofen Concierge-Service-Team at the Tourist Board in Mayrhofen-Hippach, which she particularly enjoyed. It wasn’t just the stunning landscapes and perfect job, thanks to her bilingualism, that caught her attention, but a certain young man named Mike ...

The two first met during snowboarding lessons. Mike has been instructing for over 20 years and could never imagine a life without snow and snowboarding.

Due to the rather intensive (private) lessons, Helen was soon able to indulge in the world’s best pasttime with him away from the slopes – and put unconditional faith in her “teacher”.

After four years together, they married at Mayrhofen register office in December 2012, followed by extensive celebrations at the Kristall Ski Lodge in Kaltenbach - Pramstraller style. True to form, Mike rode his snowboard to the mountain lodge and the bride was provided with suitable transport on the back of a Piste Bully snow groomer. A bi-cultural relationship soon to be crowned with a Pramstraller baby, due in November 2013 (shortly after publication of this edition

of Höhenluft). The two generally converse in English – initially because Mike, an authentic “Zillertaler”, speaks local dialect and would have had to have switched to “high German” for Helen to understand ...

They are now challenged with having to perfect the other’s language; a fortuitous situation for the expected baby, who will grow up in a bilingual family.

Last winter they were able to enjoy their favourite Mount Ahorn again to the fullest in sweet harmony. Fantastically prepared pistes and diverse back country terrain for beginners, families and expert skiers (for which the Mayrhofen cable cars are indeed predestined) – combined with the huge Ahorn advantage of being able to ski right down to the valley and back into the gondola or straight into the world of après-ski.

High pleasures on Leisure Mount Ahorn with inviting ski lodges and hearty Tyrolean cuisine (Helen especially likes the classic dishes of “Kaiserschmarren” (sweet, shopped omelette) and “Kasspatzln” (cheesy egg noodles) followed of course by the obligatory shot of schnapps), a great atmosphere where you can hook up with likeminded people, ski in powder snow and soak up the sun and après ski after an eventful day on the slopes – are all part of the pleasure, the prospective parents agree. They may have to limit some of the latter, however, in the near future. But you can be sure the new addition to the family will be on skis in no time at all and discovering Mount Ahorn - it is inevitable, with that gene pool!

Leisure Mount Ahorn 160 persons in one (!) cable car float seemingly effortlessly up the mountain in only 6.3 minutes in this technical tour de force.

Since its commission in December 2006, the new Ahorn cable car has transported over 1,580,000 passengers to enjoy skiing and hiking on Mount Ahorn - which represents approx. 320,000 persons per year. Visitors that have chosen Mount Ahorn with good reason; because pleasure simply comes from enjoyment. www.mayrhofner-bergbahnen.com

www.mayrhofen.at

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On the hunt ...

A passion for hunting has been in his blood for as long as he can remember.

Although he retired ten years ago, Max Dornauer is the „restless hunter in person“, who still prefers to be in the great outdoors in all weathers than anywhere else and cherishes „his“ wild game above all, ensuring they are fed and cared for in winter.

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Höhenluft

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e can look back on a career as professional hunter spanning 36 years, before which he worked as a joiner and HGV driver. His genetic make-up, however, was too strong to ignore - his father was the tenant of a shoot and gamekeeper and his grandfather was a poacher (not unusual back in those days ...), from whom he inherited a gun, which he still owns today.

Aged 27, he took on the job as gamekeeper for the Wilde Gerlos hunting grounds from Holz Binder and completed a professional hunter‘s apprenticeship surprisingly late in life at the age of 38. With that he could finally dedicate his future working career to what he was obviously born to do.

His relationship with and respect for animals continues to grow after all these years. „It isn‘t just about slaying an animal, in fact, it is more about being outside and to be able to experience this wonder of nature anew every day“, said Max Dornauer, who regrets the fact that there are so many prestige hunters nowadays and that hunting no longer has the significance which it enjoyed 50 years ago.

Even the shortest hunting jokes, one of which the editor managed to drag out of him, namely that two hunters didn‘t stop at a guest house (haha) – he doesn‘t consider to be appropriate any more. „Even that is not what it used to be. We used to enjoy sitting together after hunting, but now you have to be so much more careful with driving“, the 74 year old ruminates on the fact that things have changed a lot since yesteryear.

Unchanged is the fact that he - often together with

the 84 year old tenant of the shoot who helps him as gamekeeper - visits the hunting grounds every third day during the winter months from October/November to, depending on snow conditions, March/April in the mornings to feed the game. Mainly deer and a few alpine ibex roam in „his“ territory in Laimach.

Larger herds are located in the subsidiary valleys of Stillup, Zillergrund and Tux. Hay is not always hay when it comes to feeding game. Roe deer, in particular, need hay rich in clover leaves, lady‘s mantle and dandelions. The type of hay suitable for red deer is less particular, nevertheless is must be prime mature hay and of the first cut, carefully harvested (dry stored and not damp and mouldy) and enriched with small amounts of concentrated feed. „One must never overdo it, though“, adds Hunter Max, who can be booked by guests as a hunting guide.

He still spends a lot of time stalking the forests and fields with the shoot tenant and senior owner of the Gasthof Hubertus in Laimach – to quote his wife, „He is out and about just as much now as when he was a professional hunter“. There is simply no cure for something you do with a passion ...

Speaking of Gasthof Hubertus: It is no coincidence that most of the kill from their land as well as that from the surrounding hunting grounds ends up in their kitchens. Gourmets can therefore be doubly sure they will only be served with local game. Besides Max Dornauer‘s favourite dishes of saddle of venison and goat, there are countless other creative wild game meals to choose from and enjoy.

Wild game feeding Approximately 900 to 1,000 kilogrammes – of selected mountain hay is necessary per winter for a territory with five feeders. It is important to maintain a routine for feeding days.

The Laimach hunting grounds, for example, are stocked with 70 to 80 head of game in summer, whereby 20 head are permitted to be hunted (divided amongst five license holders), meaning winter feeding is necessary for around 50 deer.

These hunting grounds are also home to 25-30 alpine ibex, red deer or deer crossing from other territories, as well as foxes, martens, wild rabbits, wood grouse and blackcock. www.mayrhofen.at

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Photo credit: iStockphoto

Wild Recipes Cook, Angela Troppmair

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t Gasthof Hubertus in Hippach/Laimach the emphasis is on clear lines and honest cuisine, whilst taking seasonal and regional produce into account. In addition to classic dishes, wild game specialities are prepared in-house, with venison ravioli, venison Carpaccio, salad with fillet of wild game, game stew or roasted game often gracing the tables.

The family run business with guest rooms is very

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popular with locals and visitors alike for its excellent wild game. Furthermore, the hotel is an ideal venue for all kinds of celebrations. www.hubertushof-hippach.at Tel.: +43 (0)5282 2373.

The Troppmair Family look forward to being your hosts!

Höhenluft

Sliced venison fillet with chanterelles and apricots Ingredients: 600 g venison fillet 2 desert spoons of butter 12 chanterelles 6 apricots Salt Freshly ground black pepper 6 desert spoons of cream ¼ l game jus (sauce) Method: Fry the sliced fillet, chanterelles and apricots briefly in a non-stick pan. Season with salt and pepper, add the hot game jus and finish with cream.

Schupfnudeln (potato noodles)

Curd Cheese Mousse with blueberries

Ingredients: 220 g floury potatoes, peeled and boiled 100 g course flour 30 g wheat semolina 20 g Butter 1 egg Salt Butter for frying

Ingredients: 150 g curd cheese 150 g sour cream 150 g whipped cream 300 g fresh blueberries mixed with 20 g castor sugar 2 oz blueberry schnapps Juice of one lemon 80 g icing sugar

Method: Mix all the Ingredients together to form a smooth dough.

Shape the dough into a thick roll and cut it into slices on a floured board. Flour the pieces of dough liberally and roll the palm of your hand back and forwards repeatedly over the individual pieces to create noodles. Boil for two minutes in salted boiling water, rinse under cold water and sauté in a pan until lightly brown.

Method: Mix all the ingredients to a smooth cream. Spoon it into portions and garnish with blueberries.

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The „Ingredients“ for genuine Zillertal Doggln.

Handmade for warm feet „Doggln“ (felt slippers) are considered to be a Zillertal speciality. Not for your taste buds, but for warm feet. These cosy slippers are made entirely by hand and wonderful to wear on cold winter days. This ancient traditional handicraft lives on, thanks not least to Maria Hanser.

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Höhenluft

aker“.

Maria Hanser, the „Doggln-M

Doggln

„Doggln“ are 100 percent

Y

ou do need a skilled hand to be able to master the complex procedure of making “Doggln”. Maria was looking for a new way to occupy her time when she learned the art of “Doggln-making” around seven years ago from two elderly ladies, who were masters in their craft. She now churns out around 240 pairs a year, most of which are snapped up by the locals at the Advent Market in the Forest Festival Area in Mayrhofen. The “Doggln Maker” is busy all year round in preparation for this onslaught, needing around five days to create one pair (including the drying phase) of these popular Zillertal slippers.

The materials required often come from old coats and are pressed together into three layers with „flour paste“ (= rye flour and water mixed into a thick pas-

handmade. This ancient craft has simply been passed down the generations and cannot be te). A lengthy process, as each layer must dry for at least twelve hours! The first layer is then sewn together to form a so-called „Loascht“ (not really translatable) and is nailed onto the shoe moulder, on which the second and third layers are stuck with glue. Now the felt sole is attached, before the „Loascht“ is removed and the fabric is cut. A self crocheted or knitted border is then added as a decorative edge.

Doggln are available in sizes ranging from 17 to 46.

The “ancient tools” are, in fact the shoe moulds, which are very difficult to get hold of nowadays, explained Maria Hanser. You need to have good contacts to be able to obtain these pieces, often from older people who had the foresight to purchase them in bygone years. You see, old tradition never dies!

officially learned.

Anyone who has ever worn Doggln will never want to put normal slippers on their feet again. Doggln are a way of life in Zillertal and something that cannot be bought off the shelf.

Cosy feet at Mayrhofen Advent at the Forest Festival Area, or direct from Maria Hanser, maria.hanser@gmx.at www.mayrhofen.at

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Hansjörg Aschenwald enjoys some stress-free trail grooming during the night hours.

The cross country ski trail for active night owls Hansjörg Aschenwald, 1988 Olympic bronze medallist in the Nordic Combined team competition in Calgary and Nordic coach for Mayrhofen Ski Club was actively involved in the cross country ski trail design, and now trains there in the evenings with young athletes. This innovative cross country ski night trail (sponsored by Allianz) in Mayrhofen (Burgstall) enhances immeasurably the sporting choice offered to all cross country ski enthusiasts.

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nd the number of enthusiasts that use this trail - launched by Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board, easily accessible on foot and snow-sure because of artificial snow making facilities - is growing year by year. As previously mentioned, aspiring young athletes meet their mentor Hansjörg Aschenwald at around 18.00 hrs, after he has travelled from Innsbruck, many locals from all over Zillertal turn up to make a few rounds after work as a welcome balance to their busy working

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day and visiting guests, of course, appreciate the special magic of this floodlit cross country ski trail. „It is great that we have this facility – it doesn’t matter if you are an ambitious competitive athlete, amateur skier or an old age pensioner, everyone has the opportunity to get outside and exercise in the fresh air“, comments Aschenwald, full of enthusiasm. Just how much cross country ski sport is booming across all ages is amply demonstrated during the evening hours.

Höhenluft

The joy of exercise, at any time of the day or night.

Cross country ski night trail Die

Profile

der

Allianz

Burgschrofen-Loipen gliedern sich in Marathon, Profi, Sprint und Genuss (letztere drei bis Born in 1965, the former top athlete (eight years In the Austrian Nordic Combined Team, Olympic bronze medallist and ranked 10th in the World Cup) has been a member of Cobra since 1998; Austria’s elite police unit. For the past two years Aschenwald has been working primarily as a mental coach, preparing his colleagues psychologically for operations in the field. In addition, the mental coach also shares his 30 years of experience with other athletes.

He had to put his own mental strength to the test two years ago when he broke both ankles, tibia and spine during a work related rope technique exercise (rappelling from a helicopter and forcing access into an apartment via a balcony), resulting in a month’s stay in hospital and two months rehabilitation.

As coach and „jack of all trades“ at Mayrhofen Ski Club Nordic Section, he is now able to join his 16 protégés aged eight to fifteen again on the night

trail. He trains with them daily for two hours, concentrating on coordination, endurance and technique, joins the younger ones for races in Tyrol and the older ones for races all over Austria and organises the whole supporting programme - on an entirely voluntary basis. „I live for this sport, otherwise I could never have won any medals“, is his logical explanation for his efforts, and he works with great enthusiasm and conviction with the youngsters.

Both sons have been infected by cross country ski fever: 18 year old Philipp is on the cusp of joining the World Cup, while 21 year old Patrick, who used to compete at international level, has chosen instead to join the coaching community and is in the process of completing his coaching exams. „Both decided to get involved in the sport voluntarily, they must have just inherited their love of Nordic sports “, says the proud father, in whose footsteps it will be a challenge to follow.

22.00 Uhr beleuchtet!) und bieten damit jedem Langläufer die für ihn ideale Spur auf einer Gesamtlänge von 8,2 Kilometern mit einem Höhenunterschied von 10 bis 60 Metern.

Ob klassischer Stil oder Skating-Technik – auf allen vier Loipen herrschen perfekte Verhältnisse für jeden Anspruch und jede Kondition, Streckenteile „Ski-Cross“, und „Kamelbuckel“ für intensive Trainingseinheiten inklusive. www.mayrhofen.at

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Christian Eder enjoys the silence in the midst of unspoilt nature.

The mountain enthusiast on high tours Christian Eder, head of the Mayrhofen Mountain Sports School, „Zillertal Alpin“ as well as committed and passionate instructor for the Tyrolean Mountain Rescue, enjoys taking alpine tours - preferably in winter when he can discover the deep snow landscapes with his guests, well away from the busy pistes. Ski touring and climbing the mountains unaided (without using lifts) is booming like never before.

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Höhenluft

Sport and an unparalleled natural spectacle in snowy winter landscapes.

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his has been facilitated, not least, by the industry which has quickly jumped on the bandwagon and developed the appropriate equipment. It definitely gives people a further incentive, comments Christian Eder, former owner of the Dominikus Hut at the Schlegeis Reservoir. He inherited this mountain lodge from his parents, but sold it in 2010 and turned his mountaineering hobby into a professional career, thereby fulfilling a long cherished dream of opening a Mountaineering School.

In addition, he spends around 120 days of the year training future mountain rescuers and holding advanced training courses, for which he is permanently employed by the Tyrolean Mountain Rescue Services.

As an all-round specialist, Höhenluft asked him for a few words of advice on the subject of ski touring.

Experience ski touring 2) Equipment (easier than ever now, thanks to the wide range available) 3) The problem of exaggerated self-evaluation (especially for those aged between 40 and 60 years – even if you feel very fit, the mountains have laws of their own) 4) Off-piste avalanche risk – ask the locals or mountain hut owners for their opinion/assessment of the situation 5) An absolute MUST: Personal safety equipment with a LVS device („beeper“), avalanche probe, shovel and an ABS airbag

preparations, with the right equipment and awareness of the avalanche situation in particular, ski tours exert an inimitable charm in unspoilt natural alpine landscapes (and not necessarily on freshly groomed slopes ...).

Qualified

Höhenluft:

Höhenluft: Who is this sport suitable for?

In your role as mountain rescuer you are often confronted by accidents in alpine landscapes. What message would you give to mountain sports enthusiasts, regardless of whether they are out and about in summer or winter?

Christian Eder: The prerequisites for ski tou-

Christian Eder:

ring are a certain level of physical fitness and stamina, you should of course be able to ski or snowboard ...

In complete contrast, by the way, to snowshoeing another increasingly popular pastime, where you do not need to be incredibly fit to explore the natural backcountry terrain.

After making the necessary

My heartfelt message to all guests who have an affinity with the Alps: Please do not see the mountains as a playground and have respect for nature. And raise your awareness about the fact that this terrain is associated with certain risks - regardless of whether they are self-inflicted or caused by force majeure.

mountain

and

ski guides familiar with the - predictable - freaks of nature guarantee an unforgettable mountain experience. Without wanting to detract in any way from the many charms of these alpine pleasures: safety is of utmost importance and should not be underestimated.

In this sense we wish you „Safe skiing!“ with the pros

Höhenluft: Safety is a key issue during high

Höhenluft: Which routes can you recommend

mountain tours. What must one pay attention to?

to Mayrhofen guests?

Christian Eder:

Christian Eder:

1) The weather forecast (including predictions for the next few days) and a correct interpretation of the avalanche report

Two real classics of medium difficulty: the Ahorn Peak (starting from the top station of the Ahorn lifts) and the middle Grinberg Peak (approaching from Finkenberg) offer eve-

in the stunning alpine landscapes around Mayrhofen!

www.zillertal-alpin.at www.mayrhofen.at

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rything ski touring enthusiasts are looking for, in the midst of unspoilt landscapes and incredible scenic beauty.

A detailed route description can be found under: www.bergsteigen.com/skitour/tirol/zillertaler-alpen/ ahornspitze-von-der-ahornbahn-bergstation bzw. www.bergsteigen.com/skitour/tirol/zillertaler-alpen/ mittlere-grinbergspitze-von-finkenberg.

Höhenluft: Is it advisable to attempt the route with a mountain guide?

Christian Eder: Every (!) ski tour should only be attempted after an experienced assessment of the avalanche situation. Involvement of a mountain guide is, therefore, highly recommended for every tour. I (or one of my colleagues) would much rather accompany visitors to the backcountry terrain, rather

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than have to turn out with the mountain rescue services to look for them.

Höhenluft: How can awareness levels of ski tour enthusiasts be raised with regards to safety?

Christian Eder: My Zillertal Alpin Mountaineering School offers a two day introductory course, „Ski touring - avalanche awareness“. Here you are taught the basics of ski touring as well as an introduction to avalanche awareness. On the first day we climb up to a mountain lodge, where we hold the course and then stay overnight. On day two we make a short ski tour according to the standards of ability of the attendees and prevailing weather conditions, and try to put into practice what we have just learned. Apart from the knowing the basics of alpine skiing, no prior knowledge is required for ski touring.

Photos: Ferienregion Mayrhofen-Hippach, Norbert Freudenthaler, Europahaus Mayrhofen, www.shutterstock.com

DYNAMIC MEETINGS MAYRHOFEN active & full of energy

Mayrhofen: One location - 1.000 possibilities Tyrol’s 2nd largest congress & event centre, more than 10.000 hotel beds, unique special event locations in the valley and on the mountains, professional and flexible partners, huge diversity of local leisure facilities & one contact person for the entire event organisation.

Welcome to Congress Zillertal!!

Congress Zillertal . Dursterstrasse 225 . A 6290 Mayrhofen . www.congress-zillertal.at

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Photo credit: Paul S端rth

Hรถhenluft

Photo credit: Sven Bänziger, Anthony Upton

The double play on language Thousands of visitors descended on Mayrhofen‘s Europahaus in March 2013 to give their laughing muscles a proper work-out at Europe’s best and literally highest comedy fest, the „Altitude Comedy Festival“.

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M

ichael Mittermeier is slap bang in the middle of the international who‘s who of the comedy scene as the only German contributor, and has been performing to packed concert halls in English speaking regions for several years now. Despite a busy programme, he was good enough to find the time talk to us - in his „second language“, Bavarian German.

I am a paradox for the Brits sitting in the German speaking audience. For them, a funny German comedian doesn‘t exist - which is why they went wild here in Mayrhofen. That was really cool - to be able to win them over to such an extent. You couldn‘t get this kind of constellation in the UK - it would not be affordable. The audiences in Mayrhofen were incredible!

Höhenluft: A trivial question: how do you become a comedian? Is it something you can learn?

Höhenluft: What distinguishes an English cabaret artist from a German one?

Michael Mittermeier: Either you have it, or

Michael Mittermeier:

you don‘t. There is no formal training, you just get up on stage and do your thing. I joined the tour circuit with my own programme in 1987, after initially entertaining people in the streets with short performances.

Höhenluft: You have toured Germany, Austria and Switzerland with your programme, but have also triumphed in London, New York, South Africa, Dublin, Montreal and Edinburgh. How differently do audiences respond regionally?

Michael Mittermeier: The audience is different every night, no matter where you are. You just have to be good wherever you happen to be performing, there is no basic cliché.

Höhenluft:

What makes the festival in Mayrhofen so special?

Michael Mittermeier: What is great about Mayrhofen is that as a German, you get to meet many English counterparts. Some of the world’s best comedy giants have gathered here. My path crosses often with these colleagues, who I have got to know all over the world and with whom I have shared the stage in Montreal, Scotland, Africa, England - this time in Mayrhofen. And that is nice.

English comedians are used to touring all over the world, which is unheard of for our German, Austrian or Swiss colleagues. You therefore require a completely different approach on stage if you want to perform internationally - you have to look at the whole world, not just regional corners of it. The level is very high - certainly much higher abroad than at home.

„If being a comedian isn‘t in your blood it is torture for both yourself - and the audience.“

Michael Mittermeier

Political scientist and specialist in American studies, Michael Mittermeier, lives

Höhenluft: How much more difficult is it – despite studying in America - to convey the punch line in a second language?

Michael Mittermeier:

It is incredibly difficult and sometimes impossible. I am gradually familiarizing myself and have done more work abroad over the last four years. I would go as far to say that I now take the stage in London or Ireland as if I was in Austria, for example. What I mean is that I can talk about what is currently happening in the respective country, without having to spend weeks of translating in advance. Whereby translation alone doesn‘t always work. It is great when I can use the same subject matter as I use in German, but with different words. There are, however, puns in English that I cannot use in German. People love it - but it cannot be translated.

That is the point I would like to get to: to be able to play with another language as if it were your own. I hope to get there eventually.

with his wife and child in Munich. He has been impressing audiences with his solo programme since 1987 and is the only bilingual in German and English comic currently treading the international boards.

Mittermeier is one of Germany’s most successful comics, with over 1.5 million sales in video and sound recordings.

He has been touring through Austria, German and Switzerland since May 2013 with his current „Blackout“ programme. www.mittermeier.com

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Höhenluft: Was this your first visit to Mayrhofen or Zillertal?

„The audiences in Mayrhofen were incredible!“

Michael Mittermeier:

Around 25 years ago I rented a mountain hut in Zillertal together with some friends for two years. It was the real McCoy, with an outdoor loo and all that that entails. We shared the costs to make it affordable and visited Zillertal often during this time - but I haven‘t been back since. I have also drastically reduced the amount of time I spend on skis. As a one man show it wouldn‘t be ideal if something happened to me. Finding a replacement may prove tricky ...

Höhenluft: What comes across on stage as being relaxed and easy requires, in fact, exact preparation ...

Michael Mittermeier:

Of course there is lots of work to be done. But for me, this is not a job but a way of life. If being a comedian isn‘t in your blood it is torture for both yourself - and the audience.

Höhenluft: How long do you spend working on a programme?

Michael Mittermeier: The problem is that you never know when a new programme actually starts. You have ideas, fragments which can be incorporated into an existing programme - or just as easily be left to lie for a while. At the end of the day, it takes around six months to create a new programme and get it ready for the stage. It has to mature.

Höhenluft: Where do you get your inspiration from?

Michael Mittermeier:

It‘s all there. Open your eyes and ears, „Helmi“ is here ...

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Höhenluft: What do you not find funny?

Michael Mittermeier: I am a very political person and do not find it at all amusing when ridiculous decisions are made by political parties that have nothing to do with people or meaningful laws.

Politicians are all the same. I simply cannot understand why the ban on assault rifles in America has no chance. Who on earth needs an AK 47 at home?

I certainly don‘t want my neighbour to have one. The Republicans are bowing to a lobby movement - and it hurts to watch.

Höhenluft: Which topics are taboo for you?

Michael Mittermeier: None. Not to talk about something would be self censorship. It is my job to make a good number out of a difficult subject. We Germans and Austrians are a little more uptight on this front. Every English speaker thinks that if the point is good - it doesn‘t matter at all what the subject is. Why should I leave out jokes about Hitler, for example? He is - unfortunately - part of our culture and the whole world makes jokes about him. So why shouldn‘t I? Where is the problem?

Nobody is bothered in England when I bring up a „hard case“. That is the art of stand-up comedy - to still be able to poke fun, even if the subject matter is tricky.

Höhenluft: A sad individual hiding behind the proverbial clown‘s mask. Is that something you can identify with?

Michael Mittermeier: That is another one of these many clichés. I am a normal person and the stage is part of my life. It is comparable with being an actor, just a bit more extreme. We are probably more extreme in general. Of course some comedians are depressive, but no more than in any other walk of life.

Höhenluft

Höhenluft: What is the difference between a cabaret artist and a comedian? Or is the latter just a modern Anglicism?

Michael Mittermeier: You have to ask the press about that. Our profession is described throughout the entire English speaking world as stand-up comedian – a recognised term for the English. Only society and the German literary world make a distinction between the two words. You call it cabaret in Austria and still mean the same thing.

There are two types of stand-up comedians, political and non-political - that is the only internal differentiation. It is nonsense that people want to know the difference. It is all about whether someone is good or not. Nobody is interested in the rest Höhenluft: Having to be the joker at work can‘t always be easy. How to you get motivated on not so good days?

Michael Mittermeier: What could be better than going on stage in front of a few thousand people who are clapping for you? Even if my mood isn‘t great, I know it will improve more or less immediately. I would be in the wrong job if I needed motivation.

The consequence of that would be to stay t home.

Höhenluft: How narcissist does one have to be to present oneself alone on stage?

Michael Mittermeier: I think that it is a form of schizophrenia. Most good comedians love being in the limelight – not, however, for egocentric reasons and the need to be loved. Of course everyone wants to be liked, but you don‘t need to push yourself into the limelight for that. What we do is in our blood. I only ask myself if my current programme is as good as the one I had ten years ago, or maybe even better. That is what keeps the good comics going, but everyone has to decide for themselves.

Some have the money, others have the fame, and others again the artistry At the end of the day, it is all about whether you are good or not.

Höhenluft: Comedians (appointed and self-appointed) are popping up all over the place. How do you separate the wheat from the chaff?

Michael Mittermeier: It is a simple and natural evolvement: the good stay and the bad disappear into obscurity again. There are exceptions, but you don‘t think about it too much. There has always been good and bad humour. Not every funny movie in the 50‘s was really funny. Even if Peter Alexander used to make cheesy filmy - the quality was just fine.

The fact that there are so many comedians these days is the result of supply and demand. People like to watch a show - they are not forced into it. Who likes who is all a matter of taste. Some will laugh at complicated and political humour, while others just want to run away. It is all perfectly justifiable and nothing is better or worse.

Höhenluft: How do professional comics behave among each other - during a festival for example?

Michael Mittermeier:

Very friendly, very collegial, I have known lots of these guys for many years now because our paths often cross. We check out each other‘s shows - after all, we enjoy watching a good performance like anybody else. If it is good, it‘s good. If not, nobody talks about it.

Höhenluft:

The age old and mutually observed love-hate relationship between Germany and Austria – is it still the subject matter of comedians’ dreams?

Michael Mittermeier: I do play with this cliché of course, but not as much as I used to. „Piefke“ had an entirely different meaning 20 years ago.

We have become closer since, the borders are open, we have a common currency and we have a more easy-going relationship than before.

No comedian from Hamburg would have performed in Vienna 20 years ago - they would have ended up going home crying. And some actually did. As a Bavarian I had it a little easier because I knew the Austrian mentality. You could almost call it a home game. And we both speak a language or dialect that the north Germans wouldn‘t recognise anyway.

Dates

After its great success in 2013, Europahaus Mayrhofen will be staging the Altitude Comedy Festival again next year. Those wanting to have a laugh with Europe’s best comedians should get these dates in the diary: 31st March - 5th April 2014 SAVE THE DATE! www.mayrhofen.at

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Raise awareness for nature It still exists, the (truly) untouched and completely traffic-free alpine areas, where public roads, helicopter flights, or cable car systems for tourism purposes are taboo. This is guaranteed by the high mountain landscapes of the Zillertal Alps, bearer of the prestigious title, “Nature Park” and supported by the presence of highly trained Rangers and their “eagle eyes”.

T

he Zillertal Alps Nature Park encompasses a surface area of 379 square kilometres, including the municipalities of Mayrhofen, Ginzling, Brandberg, Finkenberg and Tux. It was designated as a protected area in 1991, received the Nature Park title in 2001 and represents altitudes of between 1,000 and 3,510 metres. Hikers, if they should feel so inclined, would need to walk for eight solid days to cover the entire area.

Eight refuge mountain huts, countless three thousands metre peaks with craggy rock faces, unique vegetation and rare species of animals fascinate visitors who, stamina levels permitting, can explore these spectacular mountain landscapes on a network of 200 hiking trails in all levels of difficulty.

There is something suitable for all nature lovers, with

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Höhenluft Opportunity creates knowledge: Rangers Andrea Sporer and Alfred Stock (rear) meet interested Nature Park walkers.

Ranger-Days

Four guardians of the landscapes, who are underway in the Zillertal Alps Nature Park on the so-called “Ranger Days”, raise people’s awareness for this picturesque, traffic and noise free mountain world of the Zillertal Alps. Nature Park visitors can find out the respective dates from the various toll stations, for example in Zillergrund, or from the homepage. A ranger blog has also been created under blog.naturpark-zillertal.at, in which the landscape guardians report on their exspecial guided walks for the young ones (days in the forest for children aged four and over which take three to four hours and parents are welcome to join, or children’s expeditions to a wooded gorge) as well as guided herbal walks or a tour of the peaks with the legendary Peter Habeler.

Andrea Sporer and Alfred Stock are two of the four trained Rangers – also known as Nature Park guides and guardians of the landscapes since summer 2013. They are on hand to answer any questions and provide information, as well as being responsible for documenting any irregularities in the natural landscapes, keeping an eye on cleanliness along the trails and encourage walkers to observe nature more

closely. Out and about along the trails, or at one of the mountain huts and equipped with a tripod and telescope – they inspire guests with a detailed look at the beauty of nature, which is literally lying at their feet. An alpine ibex, for example, viewed through a telescope seems suddenly close enough to touch, is a lasting experience and one that will be often remembered.

To raise awareness of the guests, teach them to open their eyes as they walk through the mountains and enjoy a more conscious experience of nature is the Ranger’s credo, which they have committed themselves to with much knowledge, passion and empathy.

periences and encounters.

Just look carefully – and observe the guidelines given by the Rangers. The choice of over 200 themed guided walks in the Nature Park summer programme can be viewed under www.naturpark-zillertal.at www.mayrhofen.at

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Clear the stage for Marc Pircher!

He is in a “music” league like no other: Marc Pircher, winner of the Grand-Prix of Folk Music and multiple gold award winning folk music star has, for many years, made the Europahaus his focal point in summer.

His crowning highlight, in addition to the already legendary Marc Pircher-Festival, will be his moderation of the “Zillertaler Schlager Night of the Year” on 23rd August 2014.

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Höhenluft

Marc Pircher

Clear the stage on 23rd August 2014 for Marc Pircher, Semino Rossi, Hansi Hinterseer & Co at the „Zillertal Schlager Night of the Year“ – open air concert at the Europahaus! www.mayrhofen.at Marc Pircher-Festival from 9th to 15th June 2014 with a 3 day

F

amous names such as Semino Rossi, Hansi Hinterseer, Die Mayrhofner, Die Jungen Zillertaler, die Amigos, das Nockalm Quintett, die Zellberg Buam and Ursprung Buam have already agreed to perform at the “Zillertaler Schlager Night of the Year” at the Europahaus in Mayrhofen, where the famous local hero will be moderating and, of course, performing.

In addition to his three day festival in June, to which Pircher fans have been flocking in their droves for the last 15 years, the “ Zillertaler Schlager Night of the Year” in August 2014 will prove to be yet another highpoint in Mayrhofen’s event calendar: When the parking lot next to the Europahaus is transformed into a concert area and the crème de la crème of the folk music scene grace the open air stage. „The Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board want to attract high level events that have a great fun-factor for their guests – the perfect combination and the reason why I have enjoyed working for so long and intensely in collaboration with Mayrhofen “,Marc Pircher only has praise for those responsible and greatly appreciates their efforts.

This likeable and down to earth musician, who celebrated the 20th anniversary of his performing career in 2012 with 20 stars of the folk music scene,

combined ticket 13th to 15th June with star parade, covers everything with his three arrangements that is to say, every preference for every location: Whether as a solo artist, part of a duo or in a line-up with a nine-piece band; with over 200 gigs per year (with 100,000 kilometres of car travel) he certainly knows how to get his audiences going, He loves the beautiful contrast between the weekly summer evenings in front of around 300 guests and performing to audiences of 10,000 at a festival.

It is the variety which he likes most, as well as his popular fan walks or relaxing boat rides on Lake Achensee on MS Marc Pircher – the former MS Tirol, which was renamed in his honour!

In September 2014, his large family of fans will be setting of for the high seas on the 5* MSC Splendida for a second time – where they will „cast off“ for a fan cruise from Genoa to Naples, Messina, La Goulette, Barcelona, Marseille before returning to Genoa, with concerts, exclusive welcome cocktails and disco parties on board.

Marc Pircher will be in the middle of it all, spreading his Zillertal roots all over the world in inimitable style, be it on land or water, at the Europahaus, on TV or event platforms. With his Styrian accordion, distinctive voice, unwavering good humour, as well as an awareness that the loyalty of his fans should not be taken for granted.

Marc Pircher Evening with special guest, Semino Rossi, as well as brunch to music at the acclimatised Hotel Berghof Events Hall, (next to the Europahaus).

Not included in the combination ticket: Welcome evening at the Mayrhofen ErlebnisSennerei Dairy, welcome evening at Europahaus and excursion to Lake Achensee with boat trip.

If you are lucky you can still get hold of tickets. Don‘t miss out and order your tickets now, or make reservations for 2015 ... info@marcpircher.at For the latest information, please visit www.marcpircher.at

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Photo credit: Franz Eberharter

May we introduce the Tyrolean, Kaiser Franz!

It is not easy to describe multi-talented Franz Eberharter in only a few words.

The eclectic career of the „Kaiser“ ranged from working on a drug enforcement team, to stand-up comedy, from musician to writer, visual artist and columnist, hunter, sailor and politician. „Kaiser“ - meaning Emperor - is his stage name and the one God and the world knows and (mostly) loves him by.

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Höhenluft

An imperial talent in metamorphosis: Whether a.k.a. Andreas Hofer or a law enforcement officer, laughs are guaranteed.

A

fter completing an apprenticeship as a blacksmith, he spent thirteen years on the police force in the drug enforcement department. After leaving the services in 1987, he began to explore his own sense of humour. He dared to take his first steps on stage in imitable style as an authentic “Zillertaler” with, of course, an inherent feel for music. After establishing „Lachgas“ (laughing gas) as a publisher and cabaret act in 1998, he enjoyed resounding success: Eight different show programmes in eight years, 1,000 performances with audiences of 500,000 and four television productions hauled Franz Eberharter onto the Emperor’s throne, which still “identifies” him to this day. „It had to happen, everything happens for a reason, to end up on this path”, Franz reflects on his busy life full of excitement and twists and turns and admires his wife for putting up with it all for 35 years. „I am going to have to get very old to make all that good again“ he says with a contrite wink. With all his bustling activities he still makes sure there is enough quality time spent with the family. So every year, he sets sail with them for a week to Croatia on a large catamaran-- crew members are his wife, four children and five grandchildren (with a rising tendency). A regular feature in the Eberharter-Clan diary and a solid foundation for a family that sticks together through thick and thin.

The Emperor’s Kingdom He seems to have the monopoly on ambivalence: Franz

The (Life) Artist In 1998 he exhibited his works of etching and staining techniques for the first time in Switzerland. He loves working with metal and, using diverse chemicals he is able to create a wide range of colours, which manifest themselves in intensely expressive and powerful compositions. A form of art which has many admirers – all exhibits sold out during his last exhibition in the Europahaus Mayrhofen 2012.

As we all know, art comes from ability and his skilled craftsmanship is demonstrated by the production of, amongst others, leather belts and original buckles (i.e. for Marc Pircher with music notes or a butcher, with the guild’s emblem) as well as authentic covers for individual leather hip flasks.

The Writer After two published books, „Darüber lacht Tirol“ (Tyrol laughs about it) and „Tirol in Rätseln“ (Tyrol in riddles), he is currently brooding over his new novel called „Der Verlierer im Namen des Gesetzes“ (The loser in the name of the law), which is peppered with a few autobiographical touches. The story is about a special investigator who is slaughtered while working as an undercover agent in the drug scene. The book is scheduled for release 1n 2014.

He is also preparing a new cabaret solo programme and is working on a book in collaboration with mountaineering legend, Peter Habeler, about the new

Eberharter, a living legend as „Kaiser“, who confidently treads the boards with his (meanwhile) solo cabaretshow, is active on the music stage (right up to church organist), in addition to being a dedicated freelance artist; he writes books and newspaper columns and, after a short interlude in politics, admires anyone still willing to subject themselves to this metier.

His political life is over, but he can be booked in all other aspects for corporate and private events and met personally on official dates and exhibitions - accompanied, of course, by much laughter. www.lachgas.at www.mayrhofen.at

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The „Kaiser‘s“ favourite material; metal.

Franz „Kaiser“ Eberharter: A tribute to a holiday in Zillertal, made by acquainted with this Many regular Mayrhofen guests are well l mountain during their signature, received on a design of the loca honorary guest celebrations.

„Peter Habeler-Route“. This hut to hut hiking route was established by the Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board and incorporates seven mountain huts, about each a humorous anecdote will be written.

A mountain lodge on Mount Penken belonging to his friend, owner of Hotel Kramerwirt, offers the ideal ambience for Franz Eberharter to work undisturbed on whatever project he is currently focussed. Every now and then in summer and winter, he retreats to its seclusion, far away from the distractions of everyday life.

The fact that he is a fervent hunter - not a trophy hunter he stresses, and an equally passionate chef and connoisseur, he prepares and cooks the wild game himself (for which he completed a cookery course with award winning gourmet chef, Martin Sieberer), or that in 1994 he initiated the first “Kai-

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sergürtelschnallenträgertreffen” (Kaiser Belt Buckle Wearer’s Reunion” , KGSTT in short and attended by over 100 people, to which TV crews were sent in the belief that he was launching a new political party, or the six years he spent on Innsbruck Council, where he will probably be remembered for all time as being “cured and discharged”, are just a few more examples of the colourful life multi-talented Franz Eberharter has led.

His heavenly mission, incidentally, can be heard regularly at Mayrhofen Parish Church, where he plays the organ. On which he comments jokingly, that it is the only place in the church were they can’t get to you with the collection bag ...

Franz „Kaiser“ Eberharter, a true Mayrhofen thoroughbred.

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The Original „Mayrhofner“ Congratulations! „Die Mayrhofner“ are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their performing career in 2013. The path they have taken has been paved with countless television appearances, golden records and concerts throughout Europe. More than enough reason to take a look behind the scenes with band founder, Erwin Aschenwald, who has patriotically transported the name of his home town to the global stage.

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ne of Zillertal’s most prominent musicians, multi-instrumentalist, poet, or „one of the last few original Zillertaler“ are just some of the attributes ascribed to Erwin Aschenwald. The fact that he trained as a carpenter and was an extreme mountaineer during his younger years, before dedicating himself to creating his original and distinctive music, is something we will only mention in passing. A big thank you on behalf of Höhenluft, that he found the time in between his 70 European shows this year and preparations for the

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traditional „Hooo-Ruck-Fest“ in October at the Sennerei Zillertal Dairy for a quick chat.

Höhenluft: How did it all begin?

Erwin Aschenwald: In 1982 I was awarded“Distinction” at the Austrian Harmonica Championships (after performing La Campanella, a theme by Paganini) and more or less taught myself to play the other instruments. I suppose I just met

“Der Mayrhofner” as poet: Mei Herz schlagt für Tirol, do is mei Muatter her, mei Vater a.

A Lied in Moll und Dur kann traurig sein und lustig a.

Mei Herz schlagt für Tirol, i sing’s in’d Welt hinaus, dass es jeder hört.

Und muaß i oamal gehen, schreibt’s auf mei Parte drauf: Du warst mir jeden Pulsschlag wert.

Mein Herz schlägt für Tirol, da ist meine Mutter her, mein Vater auch.

Ein Lied in Moll und Dur kann traurig sein und lustig auch.

Mein Herz schlägt für Tirol, ich singe es in die Welt hinaus, dass jeder es hört.

Und muss ich einmal gehen, schreibt es auf meine Parte darauf: Du warst mir jeden Pulsschlag wert.

My heart beats for Tyrol, From where my mother comes, my father too.

A song in minor and major Can be sad or funny.

My heart beats for Tyrol, I sing to the world, So that everyone hears, And if I should have to leave, Write on my obituary, You were worth every heart beat.

the right people at the right time back then, travelled to South Africa, Kenya, India, Australia, Japan, Mexico, Latin America, Canada, and played for America’s former president, Gerald Ford, for Arnold Schwarzenegger and at the World Championships in Vail.

The founding of „Die Mayrhofner“ followed in 1973.

There were only two of us at the time, now we are five. Two of my sons have since joined and my wife, Uschi, who manages everything also sings a song on the new CD. I followed my instincts and eventually focussed on writing songs – which number around 600 compositions to date and we have recorded 35 LP’s. I have written songs not just for our band, but also for Hansi Hinterseer, Andy Borg, Marc Pircher, die Ursprung Buam and Zellberg Buam, die Steinkogler, Walter Scholz and have written tracks together with Slavko Avsenik from the Original Oberkrainern band.

During our anniversary year we have won two gold records as well as the Gold Eurostar for services to folk music. I am particularly honoured to have been awarded with the Tyrolean Medal of Merit, which I will receive in August.

Höhenluft: It is unfeasible to imagine Zillertal without music ...

Erwin Aschenwald:You are right; music is a part of life in Zillertal. I am proud to have carried the name of Zillertal into the world, although the media opportunities of today are much more powerful than when I started out. Music is a phenomenon which infects everyone and their enthusiasm grows with the increasing opportunities presented to learn it. With such a fertile breeding ground, it is no wonder that true talents emerge.

Höhenluft: It is said that the prophet is not heard in his own land ...

Erwin Aschenwald:I

have never felt that way. Healthy competition is good; I take the whole thing with a pinch of salt and never expected to be honoured. I must say, however, that when I received a letter from the province of Tyrol informing me that I was to receive the Tyrolean Medal of Merit, I had to choke back tears of joy ...

Höhenluft: How many more anniversaries will you, or would you like to celebrate?

Erwin Aschenwald: I will continue to play for as long as I can still think of songs the audience want to hear – and will continue to be a worthy representative of my country on all stages.

Die Mayrhofner

40 years of „Die Mayrhofner“, 40 years of signature style music, 40 years of travelling the world as an advertising medium for their home town.

A Zillertal success story with

Höhenluft:

What characterises you?

Erwin Aschenwald:I was often on the mountain as a young boy; which certainly shaped who I am now. That is where I learned that individuality, perseverance and endurance are the best lessons in life. I don’t let it get to me if things do not go to plan on a certain day - but I jump for joy when they do. Keep your feet on the ground, keep your eyes open and never give up – is the motto I live by and it has not let me down yet. Most important is a strong family background and to stay healthy. I have been lucky, you need that in life.

With these words he hurries off to his next appointment (with music colleague Marc Pircher) ...

great musical significance that stretches impressively far beyond the borders of Tyrol.

More on the famous Mayrhofner, Erwin Aschenwald, can be found in his biography „HoooRuck, ein Hüterbub’ fährt um die Welt – A mountain boy travels the world“, to be released in 2014. www.mayrhofner.at www.mayrhofen.at

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A very original „Ranzen“ belt embroiderer A genuine Zillertal „Ranzen“ belt with elaborate quill stitching is something really very special. At least 80 hours of pure handwork are required by Alexander Stiegler to create one of these magnificent pieces. He is the only person in Zillertal to uphold and honour this tradition - that has been passed down the generations.

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Höhenluft

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n the sixth generation of the family business, 40 year old Alexander Stiegler, has been working full time as a self-employed „Ranzen“ (belt) and quill embroiderer for the last 13 years, after initially completing an apprenticeship as a carpenter and a spell working as an asphalt surfacer. The family business in Stumm goes back 180 years. His father, from whom Alexander learned his trade from scratch, is still actively involved.

There are only a handful of professional quill embroiderers left in Austria that are still pursuing this ancient handicraft as a full time career. In addition to inherited knowledge and skills (quill stitching is not a recognised apprenticeship trade) love, passion and a great deal of patience are required. Especially when some custom made orders demand an incredible 350 to 450 working hours to complete ...

Höhenluft was granted a glimpse of the inner sanctum, the workshop, and explore this lengthy creative process (albeit as a mere amateur) in greater depth.

First there is a peacock feather, from which the green - i.e. feathers - are stripped. The remaining quill is then divided into different width strips, which are used for the stitching. One quill can be split into five to seven strips, of which 120 to 130 are required per belt! Splitting the quills is a practised art and is the most tedious part of the job, explains Alexander with a sigh. The cutting technique

and how the blade is positioned is, incidentally, a fiercely guarded business secret!

Now the selected motif (whereby almost anything is possible) is stencilled onto the leather using tracing paper – by hand, mind you (!) - although some designs and lettering are drawn directly on the leather.

Now it is time to get stitching – with absolutely no mechanical assistance. Quite the contrary, one hundred percent handwork is used to pierce the leather with an awl tool before feeding the quill through from front to back. This process necessitates two punctures per stitch and only then is a tiny dot of the pattern visible...

Looking at the ornate and intricate motifs, one realises just how much effort is involved and respect for this traditional craft grows immeasurably.

In addition to creating these „Ranzen“ belts, Alexander Stiegler also performs repairs, creates neck straps for cowbells for the „Almabtrieb“ cattle drive festivities, as well as producing trouser belts, handbags and wallets. Each and every piece is a unique masterpiece with a very personal touch and an unmistakable reference to the holiday destination of Zillertal.

Interesting side note: one customer ordered fifteen (!) cowbell neck straps, although he doesn‘t own any cows - he was simply enthralled by this traditional handicraft. Well - other people spend a fortune on an expensive bike ...

The „Ranzen“ Belt

A Ranzen is proudly worn by its owner for his entire lifetime. Every piece is unique and precisely tailored to the respective body measurements. It is an integral part of every Tyrolean costume (such as the „Schützen“ Riflemen and for musicians), is worn with „Lederhosen“ in Bavaria and ordered by many guests for major folk music events (for which Zillertal is famous, far beyond its borders). One should take into consideration, that the „Ranzen“ maker works exclusively to order. www.federkielstickerei.at www.mayrhofen.at

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A soft spot for rugged rocks Matthias Schiestl from Mayrhofen was bitten by the climbing bug at the age of ten.

As a young lad, he and a friend discovered a climbing wall directly behind his house, which provided the foundations for a passion that would propel him to the zenith of climbing sport, as two times World Mountain Guide Climbing Champion.

Peak victory of a different kind.

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Höhenluft

H

e is, quite simply, a 24 year old freak - there is no other way to describe this mountain obsessed young man.

Five days of the week, depending on the time of year, he is either in Switzerland, Italy, Spain, or - as in the case of Autumn 2013 - America, pursuing his passion for rock climbing.

He acquires the necessary fitness levels while working as a mountain guide in his own Alpine School in summer and in winter whilst free-riding, snowshoeing and skit touring, from which he makes his living. His working cooperation with the Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board, as well as with

other mountain guides is good and productive, as bookings are passed on amongst themselves, ensuring that all guest requests can be catered for.

Uncompromising outdoor enthusiast Never in his life would he think of going to the gym to improve his strength and endurance. „I can train in any weather in nature, if the motivation is there“, Matthias is very clear about that, otherwise he would give up sports all together. And this would be a real shame, given the successes he accrued at the Mountain Guide Climbing Championships

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2010 in Berchtesgaden and 2012 in Edinburgh.

He would like to take this opportunity to thank the Austrian Mountain Guide Association and Section Zillertal for the necessary support!

There is just as little chance of him being able to live from his hobby as there is of earning big bucks on the climbing scene. So he sleeps in his car or a tent when attending diverse activities or organises car pooling, so two or four people travel together in order to keep costs down. Sponsors for the world champion would therefore, be very welcome ...

Climbing is his true passion, he doesn’t see his sport in a competitive light, rather more a way of

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opening up new routes. His greatest goal is to reach the difficulty level of 9a. „That is a level which splits the wheat from the chafe, I will have to step on the gas pedal for that“, Matthias Schiestl defines his plans for the future and paraphrases that the nicest part of climbing is being able to spend the whole day in the great outdoors with friends.

Except during winter training, he is never without a partner when rock climbing. On being asked about the dangers lurking in steep rock faces, he quickly replies: „Climbing is relatively safe, it is important to be focussed, the equipment has to be right, the rope and proper anchoring – and you need to have great trust in your partner“.

Höhenluft

Climbing mania There are many experienced mountain guides in Mayrhofen‘s climbing paradise – one of them, Matthias Schiestl, managed at a very young age to win the Mountain Guide Climbing World Championships twice.

Regulars book him months in advance and he is happy to share his experience in all areas with climbers of all abilities - from beginners to pros - be it for ski touring, climbing or glacier tours.

Speaking of glaciers: Their decline is shockingly extreme, with 100 metres of eternal ice (?) vanishing every year. As the frozen ground begins to soften, rock fall is becoming an increasingly pertinent subject.

Safe in the hands of a mountain guide www.alpinschule-schiestl.at or www.mayrhofen.at

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An Edelweiss for Eternity Thomas Rauch has always been interested in carving. However, a few years ago he changed from working with the classic raw material of wood, to using stag horn.

Self taught, he is the only craftsman in Zillertal to dedicate himself to this purely hand crafted and rare form of art.

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Höhenluft

From deer antlers to edelweiss: Thomas Rauch makes it possible.

Edelweiss

The inner, white part of the antler is used to create the

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t is his edelweiss in particular that are „sprouting“ on the tables of rustic alpine lodges and decorating Bavarian hats, each unique in its size and form – just like each and every antler, which all grow differently. Being a passionate hunter, it was Thomas Rauch‘s hobby that gave him the idea of working with this novel material. „I have this stuff lying around at home, so I thought I might as well give it a try“, he explains how his passion for stag horn carving began. He has since become more proficient and, with growing creativity, creates true pieces of art such as edelweiss „growing“ out of beautiful stones (which he also finds himself) and adds maybe a couple of schnapps glasses to complete the decorative ensemble.

His hobby of music - he is a member of the Hippach Musicians and Schwemberg Fiddlers - means that he often meets up with his Bavarian, Sou-

edelweiss. The lower part of the horn, or „rose“, is also th and East Tyrolean counterparts, amongst whom his carvings are enjoying increasing popularity. It takes him at least one and a half hours to carve a small decorative edelweiss hat pin. Technical skill, patience and creativity are essential for this unique art of breathing life back into the antlers and giving them a new, ornamental shape.

Depending on the age of the stag, it sheds it’s antlers every year at the end of February and a new set grow back in the same place. If the material Thomas uses is still very fresh, it can occur that while someone is proudly wearing an edelweiss in their hat, the „donor“ animal is still prancing happily around the forest ...

Thomas Rauch‘s regular day job is with „Torrent and Avalanche Control“, so he has time during the winter months to devote himself to his handicraft.

And during this time, many artistic edelweiss & co. will grow and flourish in his workshop.

used to make belt buckles.

Mama Rauch uses the horn dust created while sanding the antlers down to fertilize her flowers. So nothing remains from the antlers, apart from works of art to be cherished through the ages - now if that isn‘t sustainable handicraft ...

Thomas Rauch, Schwendau/Hippach, Schormis 105, Tel.: +43 664 5339003 www.mayrhofen.at

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A special kind of threesome Take a „triplet“, sit two parents and a son on it, garnish it with three saddle bags, add a sprinkle of fun and just start pedalling. And this, please note, starting from Aachen/Germany on the Dutch border with the aim of arriving in Mayrhofen, some 900 kilometres and twelve days later!

The journey really is the reward ...

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hat may sound a little crazy to your average person is, in fact, quite normal for Andreas, Petra and Tim Thülig – even if they do attract plenty of attention with their three metre long triplet contraption.

The parents began tandem cycling in 2002. When Tim was born, he was initially “packed” into a special trailer, before he was able to join them on their specially designed triplet at the tender age of three. Now aged ten, he is as keen as ever on this unconventional form of sporting transport and has managed to

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convey this enthusiasm to his teachers. Consequently, he was allowed to take four weeks off school last year to take part in a great bike ride in New Zealand.

At the age of five, he cycled with his parents and 1,500 other “nutters”through Australia and was here in Mayrhofen with his parents and the triplet for a second time during this year’s summer holidays. The next European destination is Liechtenstein, and another invitation to Australia is on the cards ...

In reply to remarks about the fanaticism their son has developed, his parents commented: „Tim loves

Höhenluft

One, two, three – the Thülig’s on the road, yippee ...

The Triplet

The triplet, a bicycle with three seats, is around three metres multi-day tours, we certainly don’t push him – quite the contrary, it is him that pushes us to get back on the bike!“ The Thüligs actually have a very special relationship with Mayrhofen: Their grandparents spent their honeymoon here back in 1964. Andreas, Petra and Tim have also visited often and are acquainted with more or less every mountain. They always stay with the Kröll family at Landhaus „Matthias“, which could be described as their second home. Just as the „Kramerwirt Hotel“, where the family feast on delicious delicacies every evening during their holiday, and where they ride their triplet through the restaurant kitchen every time they finish their first tour of Mayrhofen - much to the astonishment of the chefs and amusement of the other guests. „We certainly couldn’t be described as inconspicuous during our travels“, smiles dad, who sees many advantages in travelling as a threesome in unison. „Apart from the fact that we experience so much, we start and end the journey together.

The holiday begins when we set off and nobody rushes the other. We spend quality time together and come home with priceless, shared memories. Not only that, we are completely free and flexible to do

what we want – if we see a lake we can just jump in spontaneously“ - just some of the many benefits of being able to explore the world harmoniously at the same pace.

Logistics: Their luggage was sent ahead to Mayrhofen, the three saddle bags were packed with essentials for the journey, which was divided into three days of cycling followed by one day of rest.

In other words, eight days of cycling with a total of twelve days on the road. The route could also be changed spontaneously, depending on the weather conditions and they only cycled in the rain when there is absolutely no other alternative. Friends collected the pedalling family and brought them and their triplet back home to Aachen – but only because the holiday wasn’t long enough and they ran out of time ...

By August 2013 they had already clocked up 3,500 kilometres. We are certain that they will have covered many more by the time this edition of Höhenluft goes to print. Tim can only benefit from this teamwork and the life experiences he has enjoyed - things that will serve him well during his subsequent school career. A fact his teacher also had the farsightedness to recognize ...

long. The captain sits up front, the first stoker sits in the middle and second stoker brings up the rear. The model belonging to the Thülig Family can be dismantled into three parts and fits in a suitcase, which of course makes things easier when travelling by air. If you remove the middle section, it can be converted into a tandem.

Those looking for a comfortable and adventurous ride through the countryside at the same pace while enjoying enormous freedom should look into this unconventional form of transport.

You are sure to be the centre of attention wherever you go ... www.mayrhofen.at

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Following in the footsteps of Peter Habeler This famous man from Mayrhofen and living legend in the Zillertal Valley was honoured this summer to have a new hut to hut high alpine hiking route dedicated in his name, to mark the occasion of his 70th birthday which he celebrated in 2012.

The route is a circumnavigation of the peaks of the western Zillertal Alps, passing six mountain huts along the way where welcome refreshments can be enjoyed.

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Höhenluft

S

ince early childhood, mountain professor Habeler has enjoyed a special affinity with the Zillertal Alps. During his mountaineering career he conquered five eight thousand metre peaks, and went down in alpine history as the first to ever climb Mount Everest without artificial oxygen supplies, together with Reinhold Messner. He considers, however, that the most beautiful peaks are those at home in the Zillertal Valley and was delighted to give his blessing to the new Peter Habeler Route. The concept was created within the framework of an EU sponsored project: „INTERREG IV-Pfitscherjoch without borders“, which explores the development of the potential of cross-border tourism using local resources, and is supported by the Mayrhofen-Hippach, Wipptal and Sterzing tourist boards.

In addition to the Berlin High Trail, this hiking route traverses the western part of Zillertal – with magnificent views of the neighbouring Wipptal Valley and South Tyrol.

The round walk is about 60 kilometres in length, with individual sections of between 3.5 and 13 kilometres (with with or without summit ascents) and walking times of between 2.5 to 8 hours. It leads through terrain in varying degrees of difficulty, such as easy alpine pastures and gravel trails, rock slabs, moraines and scree.

One of the most beautiful crossings for alpine enthusiast, Peter Habeler, is the high trail from Friesenberghaus to the Geraer Hut. While walking through these landscapes, it will become apparent why large swathes of this area in the Zillertal Alps Nature Park have been under protection since 1991.

Choose from the mountaineering villages of Ginzling in Zillertal, St. Jodok in Schmirn (South Tyrol) and Vals in Wipptal as your starting point. Other access points include Brenner or Pfitschtal, the Schlegeis Reservoir or Hintertux.

Access from Ginzling – Friesenberghaus: Walk from the Nature Park House for about one kilometre towards the parish church; continue on the Adlerweg in the direction of Rauth. Once in Rauth, turn right for the uphill walk to the Pitzenalm. After passing the Paschbergalm, you will reach the Pitzenalm at 1,871 metres above sea level (walking time 2.5 hours). Then follow the Berlin High Trail (Nr. 536), after 3 hours of walking you will reach the Friesenberghaus at 2,477 metres.

Access from Breitlahner – Friesenberghaus: Starting from the Nature Park House, (free parking), take the scheduled bus service to Breitlahner. The starting point for this walk is behind the road toll booth at 1,256 metres above sea level. Take hiking trail (Nr. 530) which leads up to the Berliner High Trail and follow trail Nr. 536 in a southerly direction, until you reach the Friesenberghaus at 2,477 metres. Walking time: 3.4 to 4 hours.

The PeterHabeler-Route

Approved for use in the summer of 2013, before its’ official opening in summer 2014, this 60 kilometre circular route will make the hearts of every

Access from Schlegeis – Friesenberghaus: Starting point is the Dominikushütte at 1,805 metres, follow trail Nr. 532 through a beautiful pine forest and past the Friesenbergalm, then it‘s about 3 hours of walking to the Friesenberghaus at 2,477 metres.

mountaineer and hiking enthusiast skip a beat. Distances, walking times and degrees of difficulty can be selected just as individually as the na-

Access from Schlegeis – Olpererhütte: Start at the second parking lot after the SchlegeisRestaurant, follow trail Nr. 502 through the forest, through alpine pastures and a winding path until the Olpererhütte at 2,389 metres. Walking time: 2 hours.

The huts

Access from Hintertux – Tuxerjochhaus or Hintertux – Friesenberghaus: Use the Sommerbergalmbahn lifts for the ascent, then follow trail Nr. 324, after 1 hour you will reach the Tuxerjochhaus.

Alternatively, take trail Nr. 326, turn left towards the Spannagelhaus, from there trail Nr. 526 over the Friesenberg Ridge to the Friesenberghaus. Walking time: 4.5 hours.

For mountain enthusiasts staying in the MayrhofenHippach holiday region, accessing the trial is of course recommended from Ginzling or Hintertux practically right outside your holiday front door.

Convenient mountain hut bookings with the hut booking tool: www.mayrhofen.at/huettenbuchung

ture of the terrain underfoot.

Six mountain huts along the way warmly welcome you for some deserved rest and refreshments.

Appropriate equipment, drinks and a realistic assessment of one’s capabilities should be a matter of course. With this in mind; safe walking!

(More) detailed route maps and information are available under www.mayrhofen.at

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Photo credit: Norbert Freudenthaler / Archiv Mayrhofen

Impressum Published by: Mayrhofen-Hippach Holiday Region, A-6290 Mayrhofen, www.mayrhofen.at Project Management: eco.nova corporate publishing, A-6020 Innsbruck, Hunoldstraße 20, Tel. +43 (0) 512 290088, office@econova.at, www.econova.at Editor: Renate Linser-Sachers, www.econova.at Translation: Kate Seiringer, www.kateseiringer.com

VfB Stuttgart has selected Mayrhofen-Hippach holiday region as base for their training camp in 2014

Graphics: Bettina Kurzthaler, www.econova.at Photos: eco.nova, unless specifically indicated

The Linden Stadium in Hippach is the venue, where fans can get right up close to their idols.

Stuttgart footballers and Zillertal in one package

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n the summer of 2014, Mayrhofen-Hippach holiday region will be the venue for VfB Stuttgart summer training camp. Training will take place at the Linden Stadium in Hippach and packages are being put together for the fans, ensuring they enjoy the best possible experience of their football stars and the Zillertal Valley.

Photo credit: Fotocredit: Nikolaj Georgiew

Printers: Druckerei Berger, A-3580 Horn

The musical highlight of the year

Zillertaler Schlager Night of the Year on 23rd August 2014 Come, see and enjoy the musical delights with the crème de la crème of the “Schlager-Pop” scene. Clear the stage for Hansi Hinterseer, Semino Rossi, Marc Pircher, Die Mayrhofner, Die Jungen Zillertaler, die Amigos, das Nockalm Quintett, die Zellberg Buam, die Ursprung Buam, Die Ladiner, Sigrid & Marina, Die Fetzign, die Freddy Pfister Band and DJ Mox at this mega open air event on the Europahaus stage.

Enjoy!

More information is available under www.mayrhofen.at or direct from the Concierge-Service at Europahaus / Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board.

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Tickets available from the Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board More information is available under www.mayrhofen.at

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RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY The world of tomorrow and beyond: how science is working on the future of humanity.

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RETURN OF THE BISON An American legend comes back to life

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AFRICA’S ENCHANTED GARDEN The continent’s biggest swamp in South Sudan HANDS-FREE DRIVING Reinventing the car DAUGHTERS OF THE SEA The matriarchy of the divers of Jeju-do

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Mayrhofen-Hippach Tourist Board Dursterstr. 225, A-6290 Mayrhofen Tel.: +43 (0)5285 6760-0, Fax: +43 (0)5285 6760-33 E-Mail: inƒo@mayrhoƒen.at www.mayrhoƒen.at