ECHT Montafon Winter 2022/23 EN

A winter full of personal moments

My Montafon Map

LOCALITIES

St. Anton im Montafon: The gateway to the Montafon looks back on a little-known tradition of gypsum mining. Even today, the village houses a millstone from earlier times.

Vandans: A mixture of traditional and modern award-winning building culture as well as wild streams characterise the landscape. With its Golmerbahn, Vandans is also popular with families who love winter sports.

Bartholomäberg: The cradle of the Montafon impresses with a settlement history spanning more than a thousand years and the most hours of sunshine in the valley. In winter, the panoramic sunny balcony is a popular recreation area.

Silbertal: Mining is reflected not only in the place name, but also in the Silbertal legends. Fantastic views and opportunities for active recreation are offered on the Kristberg pleasure mountain.

Schruns:  A venue for numerous cultural and art events as well as markets, Schruns is a true meeting place. The Montafon World Cup takes place in winter on Schruns' local mountain, the Hochjoch.

Tschagguns: Together with Schruns, Tschagguns forms the Montafon sports arena and is home to the Montafon Nordic Ski Jump Centre and the Aktivpark Montafon.

Gargellen: In the highest mountain village of the Montafon, on the border with Switzerland, there is enough space for unspoiled personal experiences in harmony with nature and with oneself.

St. Gallenkirch-Gortipohl: Due to its central location, the municipality is an ideal starting point for mountain sports. The Silvretta Park Montafon is a popular meeting place for winter sports enthusiasts. It is also known for living traditions such as target shooting on the occasion of the traditional bonfire burning.

Gaschurn-Partenen: Situated at the foot of the Silvretta, the area is well within reach of high mountains and their glaciers. In winter, you can reach the Silvretta-Bielerhöhe with the tunnel bus.

Grüaß Di!

We are looking forward to a great winter, when there will once again be personal experiences and terrific innovations to discover in the Montafon. Whether a fantastic run down the pistes in our ski areas, an evening ski excursion in Gargellen, a snowshoe hike at over 2,000 metres above sea level or dreamy winter hikes across glistening snowfields and through snow-covered forests, the Montafon has something to suit every winter-lover’s heart!

Of course, we’ve also devoted this issue of our magazine to topics beyond winter sports. We discuss the opportunities for training in tourism and the development of tourism as an employer. We also highlight important sustainability projects from the Montafon, first and foremost among them the “PIZ – Future Laboratory

for Sustainable Tourism”, the first research laboratory for sustainable tourism in Austria.

I wish you lots of fun and entertainment as you continue reading.

A schöni Ziet, Manuel

Managing Director Montafon Tourismus GmbH

P.S. As is already common in other ski resorts, the dynamic pricing model for ski tickets will also apply in the Montafon from this winter. So booking early is more worthwhile than ever.

MIT WEITBLICK IN DIE ZUKUNFT.

WIR MACHT’S MÖGLICH.

“Grüaß Di” IM MUNTAFU

Surrounded by the three mountain ranges of the Rätikon , Verwall and Silvretta and deep snow-covered forests is the Montafon – a dip in the landscape formed by glaciers and rising to the rear. But the Montafon is much more than that, and one thing above all: personal . Because amidst the rugged peaks there’s a concentration of lively village life, cultural-historical attractions and authentic customs.

MOUNTAIN CULTURE

Tradition and customs have always shaped the Montafon and its inhabitants. Whether consciously or unconsciously, you’ll certainly encounter a few special features in the Montafon during your time here. Perhaps it will be the Montafon Sura Kees, which is served at breakfast. Or the typical Montafon table with its ornate decorations, still to be found in numerous inns in the valley. “Etschas bsondrix” – in any case, the Montafon dialectis also something special. It not only represents a speciality among Austrian dialects, but is also an intangible cultural asset of UNESCO World Heritage.

BONFIRES IN THE MONTAFON 24 to 26 February 2023

One of the oldest customs in the valley is the traditional bonfire. On the first Sunday after Carnival, an artfully stacked wooden tower up to 30 metres high is set alight at dusk. This custom is intended to drive away the “demons of winter” and to greet the increasing light. montafon.at/funken

But before we start thinking about spring, we’ll show you on the following pages how diverse winter in the Montafon can be in all its (snow-covered) facets.

(Welcome to the Montafon)

SKIING AND SNOWBOARDING

You'll find plenty of space in the Montafon to make your sweeping turns on a total of 297 kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes. From the manageable family ski area with wide pleasure pistes to the sporty ski area with challenging World Cup pistes to the snowy ski area at over 2,000 me tres above sea level – incomparable fun and variety on the pistes are guaranteed in the Montafon.

■ 5 ski areas

■ 297 kilometres of pistes

■ 73 cable cars and lifts

■ 984 snowmakers

SNOWSHOE HIKING

Relax, enjoy the silence of winter at your own pace and experience the romantic snow-covered landscape. Snow shoeing will take you into the mountain world of the Mon tafon. Look forward to 150 kilometres of marked trails and guided tours over glistening snowfields and through for ests decked deep in snow.

WINTER HIKING

Deeply snow-covered landscapes, crisp winter air and a clear view of the Montafon mountains – on winter hikes you explore the dreamlike winter landscape of the Rätikon, Verwall and Silvretta on 290 kilometres of prepared and partly illuminated winter hiking trails in seclusion and tran quillity. All you need are waterproof, cold-resistant shoes with sturdy soles. And time.

SKI TOURS

No ascent, no descent: true to this adage, more than 20 designated ski tours await you at all altitudes in the Mon tafon – all as versatile as you are. Whether an easy tour to try out ski touring or something more challenging for real pros, choose your favourite tour right now and let the anticipation grow for your next ski tour in the Montafon!

FREERIDING

Do you want to experience the pure feeling of freedom that skiing and snowboarding off-piste gives you? Then you’ve come to the right place in the Montafon! With its varied terrain and specially designated trails for every level, the southernmost valley in Vorarlberg is a true offpiste paradise. The Silvretta Montafon in particular is con sidered a real hotspot on the freeriding scene.

SWITZERLAND

BERGEPLUS

On a guided BergePLUS tour, you’ll experience winter in the Montafon from its most beautiful side. Whether you explore the picturesque natural scenery on foot, take your first steps on touring skis or stomp through the winter land scape on snowshoes, in the expert company of your Berge PLUS guide, the tour will be an unforgettable experience.

■ A variety of tours from December to April

■ Highly trained and experienced BergePLUS guides

■ Free and secure booking

■ Discount or free participation as a guest of BergePLUS accommodation or with the guest card

Information and booking options

T. +43 50 6686 // montafon.at/bergeplus

DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF SILENCE

A winter landscape deep in snow, glistening powder snow and a fascinating view high above the sea of clouds, all reminiscent of a picturesque fi lm set, await you during winter hikes in the Montafon mountains.

Everything is a little quieter in the snow, as if muffled, but at the same time your mind is quite clear. With each step in the crunching snow, everyday life fades into the distance and you adopt a slower pace in harmony with nature. Beyond the hustle and bustle of the pistes, the Montafon offers the perfect combination of adventure, nature and tranquillity. Take leisurely walks in the village, past deeply snow-covered alpine meadow landscapes or high up in alpine locations. Along 290 kilometres of perfectly groomed and partly illuminated winter hiking trails around the Rätikon, Silvretta and Verwall, you’ll experience the winter beauty of the Montafon in a very special way.

In addition to the above, we tell you below what the benefits are of a winter hike in the Montafon and where to find particularly enticing tours.

More information on the winter hiking trail network at tours.montafon.at

A VIEW FROM THE MONTAFON’S SUNNY BALCONY

Longing for the sun? Then you should make your way to Bartholomäberg. On the high plateau, you’ll always be able to enjoy the most hours of sun shine in the Montafon thanks to the ideal, south-facing slope. When the fog gathers in the valleys, there are numerous benches to rest on along the winter hiking trails on the Montafon’s sunny balcony, where you can tank up on vitamin D and enjoy the fantastic panoramic view. The tour from Bartholomäberg to the sun-drenched Rellseck, from where you can enjoy fantastic views of the valley and the striking peaks of the Rätikon, is particularly scenic.

HIKING ON CULTURAL TRAILS

In Bartholomäberg, you’ll hike not only towards the sun, but also along the historical traces of the 4,000-year-old settlement history of the Montafon, which has its origins here. Especially on the tour from Innerberg via the picturesque Fritzensee Lake to Bartholomäberg, you’ll immerse yourself further into the snowy winter landscape with every step and learn inter esting facts about the Montafon cultural landscape. Insights into the mys terious world of legends, an important cultural asset of the Montafon, can be gained on a winter hike to the legendary Wildried or on the guided fullmoon legend hike on the Kristberg pleasure mountain. Led by storyteller Hertha Glück, the tour becomes a fabulous winter hiking experience.

PLEASURE FOR ALL THE SENSES

Above the municipality of Silbertal, the Kristberg pleasure mountain dis plays its pleasurable side all year round and in every way. In winter, ro mantic snow-covered forests and wide alpine meadow landscapes come together in a breathtaking view of the surrounding peaks and into the val ley. Away from the hustle and bustle, you can hike here on an extensive and well-prepared network of winter hiking trails that promises tours with great views. Special panoramic views await you on the extensive Kristberg loop. A stop in one of the welcoming mountain restaurants on the Krist berg makes every winter hike an enjoyable experience.

LIGHTS OUT, TOURING SKIS ON

Experience the fascination of ski touring at night. And where?

In the Gargellen ski area. Here, at over 2,000 metres above sea level, you’ll fi nd the ideal conditions for your fi rst steps on touring skis. The mountain scenery around the majestic Madrisa is imposing. It exerts a very special charm in the glow of the evening sun.

Slowly, calm returns to the Gargellen ski area. While the last winter sports enthusiasts make their way back down into the valley, you sit with Svea from the Gargellen cableways and your group in the gondola as it heads for the summit station. A unforgettable evening awaits you there. Experiencing a ski area so peaceful and empty of people is really special. But you're actually here for a completely different new experience: your first ski tour.

There could hardly be a more impressive backdrop for this. Snow is plentiful up here at over 2,000 metres, with the Madrisa towering majestically above the pistes. Kitted out with the latest equipment, you’re

at the start of a ski touring adventure. But before it starts, everything is checked over one more time. You’ll receive some initial tips on the correct use of the equipment when you rent your skis at the valley station of the Gargellen cableways. Because questions often arise when guests are in the snow and have skis on their feet, Svea explains the most important points again, including the safety equipment with its avalanche beacon, probe and shovel.

bergbahnen-gargellen.at

A GLIMPSE BEHIND THE SCENES

To get used to the equipment, you descend the first few metres to the valley station of the Gargellner Köpfe chairlift. “Once we're on our own in the ski area, we can take the opportunity for a look behind the scenes,” explains Svea. During a detour to the pump house, you’ll gain interesting insights into how a ski area operates.

STEP BY STEP FINDING YOUR OWN PACE

The ski tour starts with many exciting and sometimes surprising details in the package. Now you put on the furs, adjust the bindings and boots and you're off, step by step, up the mountain. The destination is the summit station of the chair lift. In between is a climb of just under 220 vertical metres – perfect for someone who’s on touring skis for the first time.

It’s quiet for the first few metres. All the participants concentrate on their skis and work out their own pace. With each step you get more used to the movement and your gaze wanders away from the piste. What a panorama! Once you’ve reached the top, a small snack awaits you at sunset at the foot of the mighty Madrisa. In the cone of light from the headlamp and under a fascinating starry sky, the ride down into the valley on the partially groomed pistes becomes both an adventure and a pleasure. This special evening comes to a pleasant end in the glow of torches at the valley station of the Gargellen cableways.

QUESTIONS FOR

SVEA JAHN

Svea from Germany has been living and work ing in the Montafon for six and a half years now. The 31-year-old combines her passion for the Montafon mountains with her job as Head of Marketing & Events for Gargellen ca bleways. In winter, Svea occasionally accom panies ski tourers to the Gargellen ski area af ter the pistes close to introduce them to the fascination of touring skis.

About Svea

Svea: That's a good question! I think, above all, the quality of life, which for me is characterised mainly by the opportunity to “just go” to the mountains and be surrounded by people who share my love of the mountains and my urge to move.

Svea: What appeals to me most is the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle of the ski areas and, just like hiking in the summer, to keep fit by skiing down the pistes in winter. Having the chance to discover the impressive scenery of the Montafon over and over again is a huge blessing for me!

Svea: Privately, I'm usually drawn away from the ski areas because I spend enough time there for work. If I'm planning a longer, more demanding tour, I usually go to the Silvretta. A leisurely variant often ends at the Lindauer Chalet, especially when I need a bit of exercise after work.

Thank you very much, Svea!

You came to the Montafon a few years ago in order to work here. What made you decide to stay?

What is the attraction of ski touring for you?

#2

#3

SWEEPING BENDS INTO WINTER HAPPINESS

Glistening snow, deep snow-covered forests and in between whooping for joy. With seven varied toboggan runs, the Montafon also has plenty of fun and adventure in store away from the pistes. There’s a wide range of routes, from family-friendly to fast-paced, accessible on foot or comfortably by cable car. And at night, the adventure on two runners really begins.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY TOBOGGANING FUN ON THE GOLM ADVENTURE MOUNTAIN

Incomparable tobogganing fun for young and old is guaranteed on the natural toboggan run on the Golm Adventure Mountain. Over three kilometres in length and 350 vertical metres, it winds its way in 21 hairpin bends from Latschau to Vandans. Before the rapid descent begins, the Golmerbahn takes you comfortably uphill from the valley station in Vandans. By the way, you can also rent a toboggan there. With every metre of altitude, the

anticipation of the serpentine adventure increases – for young and old alike. Alight at the middle station in Latschau. Because this is where the fun starts: one last look at the surrounding peaks of the Rätikon and you're hurtling downhill on the perfectly prepared natural toboggan run. Bend by bend, the fun factor that accompanies you on the way down into the valley increases. When you reach the bottom, there’s only one question: can we do it again?

Route data -

Latschau – Vandans

At three kilometres in length, a challenging toboggan run that winds its way from Latschau to Vandans in 21 hairpin bends.

■ Difficulty: average

■ Distance: 3 km

■ Duration: 30 minutes

■ Vertical metres: 350

START

Golmerbahn Latschau

FINISH Golmerbahn Vandans

Show consideration

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR SAFE TOBOGGANING FUN WITH CHILDREN

Tobogganing is undoubtedly fun for the whole family. However, a few points should be taken into account in order to make tobogganing with children a safe experience.

Position

It’s always important to keep an eye out and have other people in sight, especially when tobogganing, where high speeds can quickly be reached. Control your descent, look out and keep your distance to avoid collisions.

In principle, children should only toboggan alone if they can steer their toboggan safely and bring it to a stop. Until then, children are certainly better off on a toboggan together with an adult.

Correct equipment

Ascend at the edge

Only cross the toboggan run at clear places and always descend or ascend at the edge of the toboggan run and one behind the other so as not to run the risk of colliding.

Speed

Safety helmet, waterproof, warm clothing and sturdy boots with good tread are standard for young and old. A back protector also guards against injuries and in no way diminishes the tobogganing pleasure.

Adapt your speed and tobogganing style to your ability, the run itself, the snow, ice and weather conditions and the “traffic density”. It is generally important to reduce your speed if you have children on the toboggan.

OTHER TOBOGGAN RUNS IN THE MONTAFON

FINISH Hochjoch Bahn Mittelstation

Kapell – Kropfen (Hochjoch Bahn)

The natural toboggan run in the Silvretta Montafon runs from Kapell to Kropfen. The route is easy to cover and guarantees lots of fun.

■ Difficulty: easy

■ Distance: 5 km

■ Duration: 30 minutes

■ Vertical metres: 504

Lindauer Chalet –Latschau

FINISH Latschau (Gauertal)

START Grabs

You can reach the Lindauer Chalet on foot along the winter hiking trail in about two and a half hours. The natural toboggan run is the longest in the Montafon.

■ Difficulty: average

■ Distance: 6.6 km

■ Duration: 30 minutes

■ Vertical metres: 727

FINISH Latschau (Gauertal)

Grabs –Latschau

From Grabs mountain guesthouse, the descent by toboggan is rapid and gently curving through forest sections into the Gauertal (ascent approx. 1.5 hours).

■ Difficulty: difficult

■ Distance: 3 km

■ Duration: 30 minutes

■ Vertical metres: 361

START Lindauer Hütte

Kristbergbahn summit station – access point at Stelzer

The toboggan run is approx. 600 metres long with around 90 vertical metres, and is ideal for families with younger children.

■ Difficulty: easy

■ Distance: 0.6 km

■ Duration: 10 minutes

■ Vertical metres: 90

Night toboggan run –Garfrescha

You can experience tobogganing fun on Garfrescha, where you’ll find the longest illuminated night toboggan run in Vorarlberg at five and a half kilometres.

■ Difficulty: average ■ Distance: 5.5 km ■ Duration: 30 minutes ■ Vertical metres: 637

Silvretta reservoir

Two routes of just under one kilometre each on the Silvretta-Bielerhöhe, which will give you an unforgettable experience. Note: Only accessible by rental toboggan!

■ Difficulty: average ■ Distance: 2 km

Duration: 12 minutes

Vertical metres: 125

Kristberg Montafon

LIGHT-FOOTED PROGRESS THROUGH THE SPRING SNOW

article by Maximilian Laborenz (April)

Now that winter is gradually departing and giving way to spring, our tired ski legs are longing for a little lightness of foot. So today I left the clunky ski boots at home and swapped them for feather-light, bear paw-like snowshoes. There are numerous snowshoe hiking trails in the Montafon begging to be explored so that you marvel at the partly untouched snow-covered landscape. I decided to take a guided BergePLUS snowshoe hike to Silvretta reservoir because of the promising, springlike conditions. Because on the Silvretta-Bielerhöhe, the conditions for this are supposed to be ideal until well into spring.

TO “HAIRPIN BEND 29”

PLEASE!

The tour starts at the valley station of the Vermuntbahn in Partenen. Tranquil but charming Partenen – as the people of Montafon say – is still the starting point for unimagined snow fun long into spring and is therefore always worth a detour. Slowly but surely, the snow recedes from the valley, which makes it all the more difficult to believe that we should find such a snowy area in mid-April. Let’s wait and see.

Our hiking guide Catharina welcomes our group for the upcoming snowshoe hike with a colourful bouquet of winter equipment. In addition to suitable snowshoes, we’ll be equipped with height-adjustable poles and the necessary avalanche equipment. The anticipation rises and rises, while the mood could not be more exuberant.

An entertaining gondola ride awaits us before – once at the top – all the passengers are distributed between two small tunnel buses. The buses wind their way up through old exposed gallery tunnels towards the Silvretta-Bielerhöhe. During the journey it feels as if we’ve set off on a mining expedition. After leaving the tunnels and a few more hairpin bends, the bus driver suddenly sounds “Snowshoes! Everybody off !” Catharina had previously told him exactly where we were starting our ascent: at hairpin bend 29.

Guest

THE SUN SHINES ON THE REMAINING SNOW.

It’s quiet all around us. The winter scenery already conveys an unusual sense of calm. Meanwhile, only Catharina raises her voice, explaining to us how to put on the snowshoes properly. Then the great stomping fun begins. On the first few metres we receive tips on the right gait: flat terrain up to moderate gradients can be walked using your normal walking technique. When you have to cross steep slopes, the snowshoes follow a single track, i.e. in front of each other. Downhill, the sliding helps you glide down the slope in a slightly supine position. We quickly get used to it and can fully concentrate on the surroundings. And they’re quite something. The mighty three-thousand-metre peaks of the Silvretta tower up in front of us. It’s a sight that makes us marvel.

ON THE TRAIL OF ALPINE ANIMALS

In the easily accessible terrain we quickly discover animal tracks in the snow. Catharina explains that these could be from black grouse which shelter in small hiding places near exposed plants and bushes. After crossing the currently untravelled Silvretta-Hochalpenstrasse, we now hike in the blazing sun, directly below a slope. On the left we see a herd of chamois. Not far away, there’s even an ibex, which surprises us with its massive antlers.

The tour is a must for all those who can't get enough snow in spring. If you want to be away from the pistes in a relaxed atmosphere, this beginner-friendly snowshoe hike is just right for you.

Maximilian Laborenz

AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE

Again and again, breathtaking views of the glacier world of the Silvretta open up be fore us on the tour. A glance over our right shoulder reveals Piz Buin, the highest moun tain in Vorarlberg. During the drink breaks, Catharina keeps telling us interesting things about the area and what else we can do. We’ve now been walking over open ter rain for more than two hours when we look down over a knoll onto the crystal-clear Sil vretta reservoir. The sun has a clear path un der a cloudless sky today, which is why the lake shows off the contours of the moun tains, and the contrast between snow and rock really beautifully. Fantastic! The final destination of our tour has been reached.

To top it off, we made ourselves comfort able on the sun terrace of a mountain inn on the Silvretta-Bielerhöhe to soak up the unique atmosphere with a view of the crys tal-clear Silvretta reservoir and, as if we hadn’t had enough already, to fill up on plenty of vitamin D. After an hour we re turned to the buses, which were waiting for us just a few metres away, ready to depart on the return journey.

Snowshoe hike to the Silvretta reservoir

When: 27 December 2022 until 7 April 2023

Duration: approx. 5 hours (walking time: approx. 3 hours) Price: €44 per person 20% discount with the Monta fon Guest Card // free for guests of BergePLUS partner establishments

Refreshment stops

Silvretta-Haus, mountain inn Piz Buin, Madlenerhaus

montafon.at/bergeplus

THREE FANTASTICALLY BEAUTIFUL SNOWSHOE TOURS IN THE MONTAFON

FROM KRISTBERG UP THE MUTTJÖCHLE

An extremely panoramic and scenic snow shoe hikeawaits you on the Kristberg plea sure mountain. Along the route, which leads through dense forests and a deeply snow-covered, wide winter landscape to the summit of the Muttjöchle, a sweeping view of the Rätikon, Verwall and Silvretta mountain groups as well as the Lechtal Alps accompanies you.

■ Difficulty: average

■ Distance: 7.2 km

■ Duration: 4 hrs

■ Ascent and descent: 629 vm

GARGELLNER FENSTER

Go on an exciting exploration tour to deeply snow-covered Gargellen. In the high est mountain village of the Montafon, you’ll discover the special features of the Gargell ner Fenster (Gargellner Windows) on a short but all the more idyllic snowshoe hike and get a multi-faceted and exciting view through all eras.

■ Difficulty: average

■ Distance: 1.5 km

■ Duration: 45 minutes

■ Ascent and descent: 114 vm

FROM BARTHOLOMÄBERG

VIA MONTENEU UP THE WANNAKÖPF

The start of this tour is the Baroque church in Bartholomäberg. From here, the trail climbs steadily uphill, past the historic mine and via the picturesque Fritzensee Lake to Monteneu. It’s worth taking a short break here to enjoy the fantastic view of the strik ing peaks of the Rätikon. When you reach the Wannaköpfen, you will also have a won derful view over the alpine town of Bludenz and the neighbouring Walgau region.

■ Degree of difficulty: difficult

■ Distance: 10.6 km

■ Duration: 4 hrs 30 min.

■ Ascent and descent: 945 vm

TIPS FROM MONTAFON HIKING GUIDE IMELDA

■ Select the tour to match your own abilities.

■ Before the ascent, carefully inform yourself about the route, the weather and the current avalanche situation.

■ Stay on marked trails! If you leave them, carrying an avalanche emergency kit is obligatory.

■ Pack enough liquids and a change of clothes.

SNOWSHOEING PLEASURE IN HARMONY WITH NATURE

Prudence and respect are required to pre serve our natural treasures and protect the sensitive flora and fauna. So, look out for designated wildlife reserves and restricted hunting areas marked with green signs, as well as other protected areas such as the European Conservation Area “Verwall” or the “Vergalden” reserve. There is a general or conditional ban on entering these areas. Snowshoe hikes can therefore only be un dertaken along designated roads and paths.

montafon.at/naturvertraeglicherwintersport

MONTAFON FUN ON THE PISTES AT THE HIGHEST LEVEL

The ski areas in the valley are as varied as the mountain ranges in the Montafon. Five in number, to be precise. And no two are alike: from the manageable family ski area with wide leisure pistes to the sporty ski area with demanding World Cup pistes –everything is here. Look forward to varied skiing fun spread over a total of 297 kilometres of pistes until well into spring.

INNOVATIONS

IN THE MONTAFON

The five Montafon ski areas regularly await you with innovative new features for the highest level of fun on the pistes. In the Silvretta Montafon, for example, the old

Valisera Bahn recently gave way to the new Silvretta Park Montafon adventure world. On the Golm Adventure Mountain, it's the new Golmerbahn gondolas that promise you even more comfort and design since the last winter season. And last but not least, the valley run in Gaschurn offers winter sports enthusiasts the longawaited pleasure of skiing all the way down into the valley.

The Hochjoch offers sporty pistes, including the longest valley run in Vorarlberg and challenging World Cup pistes. On the Grasjoch, the sporting action takes place in the Montafon Snowpark, on the winding freeride cross and in the extensive back country. The Nova area, on the other hand, is a meeting place for all those who have expectations of challenging downhill runs as well as culinary delights and entertainment.

silvretta-montafon.at

In Gargellen, winter sports enthusiasts experience the feeling of vastness and freedom. The snowy Schafberg plateau with a view of the mighty Madrisa is the ideal starting point for enjoyable skiing. Not far from the marked pistes, there are also countless ski touring opportunities in the border area with neighbouring Switzerland.

bergbahnen-gargellen.at

In winter, the Kristberg pleasure mountain is the ideal place for families to take their turns on manageable pistes. Those seeking recreation will also find an extensive network of winter and snowshoe hiking trails as well as a panoramic trail almost 10 kilometres in length, all guaranteeing fantastic views.

montafon.at/kristberg

Winter sports families are the focus of attention on the Golm Adventure Mountain. In addition to varied pistes and exciting downhill runs for the little ones, attractions such as the natural toboggan run and an extensive winter hiking trail network on Matschwitz guarantee lots of fun and variety.

golm.at

Far away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, the area on the border with Switzerland and the Tyrol is a starting point for challenging high-altitude tours in the Silvretta.

Around the imposing Silvretta reservoir, winter sports enthusiasts will also find opportunities for skiing, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking.

silvretta-bielerhoehe.at

Kristberg Montafon

VALISERA BAHN

Where the Valisera Bahn made history 40 years ago with its reconstruction, you can look forward to another novelty since the last winter season: Austria's first autono mously operated 10-seater cable car. The new Valisera Bahn of the Silvretta Montafon is a significant improvement in quality com pared to the old cableway.

Barrier-free access is available from the un derground car park or outdoor car park di rectly to the railway entrance and up the mountain in no time at all. The fun begins even before the skis are strapped on. The fully glazed gondolas are now significantly larger and have 10 heated seats (previously 6) and a TWIST-IN system, a holder for skis on the inside.

SILVRETTA PARK

MONTAFON

The new area around the Valisera Bahn in St. Gallenkirch is also impressive. You won't find a cable car station in the classic sense here, but rather the Sil vretta Park Montafon – the new hub of the ski area. In addition to a spacious market hall with regional restaurants, a modern Intersport shop with ski depot and Kästle Test & Buy Centre, a ski school centre and the Revier Mountain Lodge Montafon, you’ll find Vorarlberg's largest e-charging garage with around 600 parking spaces and 50 e-charging points.

EXPERIENCE

NEW CONNECTIONS

Connection is a central element in the new Silvretta Park Montafon. History and the future, valley and mountain, as well as the two ski area sections of the Silvretta Montafon, the Nova and the Hochjoch, come together here. F

With the Silvretta Park Montafon, we’ve created a place with a quality of stay where guests, locals and employees can meet, feel comfortable and get everything they need for an eventful day on the mountain.

Peter Marko, MD Silvretta Montafon

MARKET HALL

In the spacious market hall (right), there’s something for every taste at the various food outlets, whether it's a snack before hitting the slopes, a pizza fresh from the oven, a vegan alpine kebab or hearty spare ribs after a day in the mountains.

PIONEERING PROJECT

With the new e-charging garage and modern photovoltaic glazing at the summit station, the Silvretta Montafon is taking further steps towards sustainability. The “Green Mountains Initiative” shows that the company is aware of its responsibility. A team of ambitious staff members works on the three main topics of natural space, habitat and climate. One of the key goals is to improve the CO2 footprint year after year (read more on page 54).

GASCHURN VALLEY

RUN

Do you know about the new valley run in Gaschurn? The piste dating from winter 2020/21 is thoroughly groomed and leads from the Versettla Bahn summit station down to the valley in Gaschurn. And what’s the best way to round off any eventful day of skiing? That's right, some R&R. The old valley station is located directly on the descent, where you can end your day’s skiing with delicious food, drinks and enjoyable DJ sounds.

NEW GONDOLAS ON THE ERLEBNISBERG GOLM

Even more comfort and design awaits you on the Golm Adventure Mountain. After around 25 years of continuous operation, the cabins of the Golmerbahn gave way to more modern means of transport in the winter season of 2021/22. The new 8-seater cabins are more spacious and accessible via a barrier-free entrance and without the earlier step. The entrances and exits to the Golmerbahn have also been made barri er-free at all stations. Passenger lifts were installed for this purpose in Latschau and Matschwitz.

ENTERTAINING GONDOLA RIDE

Of course, Golmine and Golmi also had a say in the new cabins. Ten of a total of 110 gondolas have gone into operation in the design of the popular mascots. During the ride, little winter sports enthusiasts can look forward to exciting stories from Gol mine and Golmi, which can be called up at the touch of a button. Boredom is guaran teed to be a thing of the past!

Judith Grass, MD GSL Tourism

With the blue Golmi gondolas, we are strengthening our focus on the smallest guests at the Golm Adventure Mountain and living up to our orientation as a family area!

SKI LEGEND ANITA WACTERSALZGEBER

In conversation

Anita Wachter-Salzgeber is one of the most successful skiers from the Montafon. In 1988, she won a gold medal at the Olympic Games in Calgary. Many championships and countless medals followed. In our conversation, she tells us about her beginnings and the changes in skiing in the Montafon.

Olympic Champion, Calgary 1988

Where, how and when did you learn to ski?

Anita: We grew up in Latschau. My mother worked at the kiosk at the Golmerbahn and my father at Illwerke AG. As a child, of course, I was always right by the ski lifts and in the ski area. I was about two and a half years old when I learned to ski. My brothers used to take me with them. When I was about four years old, the lift staff took me up in the inclined lift (bottom picture) and I went down on my own. So I already knew the mountain inside out as a child and of course it was much less busy than it is now – you can't imagine all that today.

Anita: Not quite. At the bottom there was a closed lift and then from Matschwitz up there was another open inclined lift, which was always exciting. There were also two drag lifts at the top. Over time, lifts were added, but in my early days, that was all (laughs). #2

Was there only the inclined lift back then?

At what point did you know that you were heading towards professional sport? How did that come about?

Anita: I joined the ski club, which was WSV Tschagguns at the time, and we had many training sessions on my home mountain of Golm and in Grabs. At some point, I made the move to the Skihauptschule (now the Skimittelschule) in Schruns. I signed up there and signed out again shortly afterwards. Hans Lerch (Anita's coach at WSV Tschagguns) convinced me that I should at least give it a try (laughs), which I did and at some point things just clicked. Those were the beginnings. My first highlights were while I was still at school, when we raced in the Austrian Championships for the first time. That was an important and big step for us at that time. Here I often think of Manfred Kessler, who was the most important companion for me at the main ski school.

Then there was the World Cup race here in the Montafon, and before that on the Hochjoch, which I can still remember well. That's when we watched on with the school. We were able to look over the athletes' shoulders as they prepared for the race in the hall and were quite fascinated. I remember it well. The French ski racer Fabienne Serrat raced here and I was a big fan of hers. During the World Cup, I was allowed to visit her in the hotel and was even allowed into her room. And that's when I saw that she had not one, but two pairs of ski boots with her and I could hardly believe it (laughs).

And the preparations?

Anita: No, that was a bit earlier. Hans once asked me what I actually wanted to be, and I answered a racer. But back then, of course, I also wanted to be a midwife and a train driver (laughs).

Anita: Because the 1988 Winter Olympics, in which I participated, took place in Canada at that time. It was a bit easier for us as athletes, if you can put it that way. We were a bit isolated. There were hardly any European media on site and you didn't hear much from the outside world. Now, of course, it's quite different. The whole “circus” is much bigger now than it used to be. But that creates a bit more pressure for the athletes, if you ask me. Of course, I was still very young when I took part and didn't have any great expectations. For me, it was a great experience to be able to compete at the age of 21 – really a great ex perience. However, in my opinion, the whole construct itself has not changed very much. The team, the Olympic village, the disciplines, etc. are almost unchanged.

Anita: Not a lot, actually. At that time, we already had great possibil ities for preparation. Of course, the possibilities in the Montafon it self have changed significantly. For example, there are now closed-off training routes that make it much easier for the athletes and also the coaches. That’s a great relief compared to the past when we didn't have that.

Anita: Yes, absolutely perfect. We have everything here in the valley; we’re really blessed in the Montafon. We have super ski areas, great in frastructure and the people are extremely cooperative with us. It's not for nothing that other nations keep coming to the Montafon to train. With us, many wishes that may not be possible elsewhere come true. The support in the valley is really helpful. In the early days of a skiing career, for example, costs are incurred that often have to be borne pri vately. In the past, there was no such thing as the Sportlerfamilie Mon tafon (Montafon sports family), for example, which is very helpful for today's youth. Franz Vonier (WSV Tschagguns) established a fund in our days, from which we could finance a racing suit, for example. I can't really tell you where the money came from, but the racing suit was re ally a highlight for me. The support in the valley these days, whether it’s from the Sportlerfamilie Montafon or the Montafon Ski Club, is re ally quite different.

And from then on it was clear to you that you also wanted to become a ski racer?

If we compare the Olympics or other major racing events of the past with today, what has changed?

Do you feel that Montafon is a good birthplace for a skiing career?

1988: Gold medal at the Olympic Games

1992: Two silver medals at the Olympic Games

1992/93: Winner of the overall World Cup ranking Two silver and three bronze medals at the World Championships

Two Junior World Championship titles

Anita: Partly, yes. She trains hard and a lot with us in the Montafon, at WSV Bartholomäberg. She’s currently competing in the European Cup, but is on track to “jump to the top”. Of course, a lot goes into this: the equipment, health and much, much more. The guys really experience a lot, but I honestly have to admit that the youngsters today also train much more than we did back then. Especially endurance and fitness – that wasn’t so much in focus for us. Everything has become much more professional. We were more on our own or things were simply not available to the same extent. For example, I went to the weight room for the first time when I was 17; it didn't exist for me before that.

Anita: It's quite clear that you have to actually want to go down the path you've chosen. You have to enjoy what you do. And versatility in childhood is extremely important, in my opinion. As a child, you should try out different things, try out different sports and exercise in a vari ety of ways. That can be very helpful for the future. Personally, I also think it's very important not to exhaust yourself right at the beginning. Professionalism is now coming in earlier and younger. The drill that is often behind it is not always helpful, in my opinion. Everything has its time.

And your daughter Amanda is taking the same path as you?

What advice would you give to young female and male athletes?

Anita Wachter-Salzgeber

We’re truly blessed here in the Montafon. Also after having seen so many different areas and a lot of the world – dahem isch da hem! (there’s no place like home!).

Anita Wachter-Salzgeber

TOURISM OFFICE AS AN ATTRACTIVE EMPLOYER

Round-table discussion

Tourism is considered one of the most important economic factors in the Montafon. Around 1,500 people are employed in the commercial tourism businesses in the Montafon, plus the employees in the private sector. However, the image of the tourism industry as an attractive employer has suffered a downturn in recent years. We explained the reasons for this, where the truth is to be found and what is being done to create a positive employer image in the course of a round table discussion.

Adrian Bargehr, pupil and deputy school spokesman Tourismusschulen Bludenz Heike Ladurner-Strolz , ÖHV National Chair Vice-President and host Nicole Okhowat-Lehner, Director GASCHT – Hospitality School for Tourism Professions Manuel Bitschnau , Managing Director Montafon Tourism

Interview guests (from left to right)

Manuel: The tourism industry has been discredited as an employer for a long time. This was partly self-induced, but has changed dramatically in recent years. In the meantime, the working time models, pay, planning and accommodation situation are the same at most companies. There’s still work to be done, but the tourism industry offers advantages that other industries can’t. In tourism, we can offer many different training programmes and, accordingly, a wide variety of professions that can be pursued afterwards or that allow for a change. You have the opportunity to operate internationally, to develop yourself further, to learn foreign languages and so on. There are lots of benefits such as staff accommodation, meals, use of the Starcard and much more. People who enjoy dealing with people find fulfilment here when they get direct feedback from a satisfied guest. The important thing is to be passionate about it. It certainly won't work without it.

Adrian: Exactly, that's also what makes it for me: the passion. In all my internships so far, I’ve felt that this is my destiny. For me it's wonderful, especially after the coronavirus pandemic, to see people happy again, dancing at the bar and having a good time. That's what makes me happy in my job.

Skills

Manuel: You have the impression that the grass is always greener on the other side. Every sector has advantages and disadvantages. If I work in tourism, I have to like dealing with people and providing service. Working hours are certainly the biggest stumbling block, although there are many industries with similar working times, and companies have become very flexible in the meantime. However, it’s clear that especially in the catering and hotel industry, guests also need services in the evening or at the weekend.

Heike: I partly blame the image of the industry here – low pay and lots of overtime. But if we take a closer look at these points, we see that it’s no longer the case. We have moderate pay rates with meals, accommodation and benefits that are not available in many other industries. Tourism is considered a bad industry because of the working hours. It’s said that employees are exploited, etc. It must be made clear, especially to the locals, that this is not the case.

Manuel: Basically, it’s important to know that tourism has grown by about 20 percent in the last 20 years. This means that we currently have more people in employment than 20 years ago. There are also fewer young people and other sectors have also grown significantly and have more people in employment. People also often want to work fewer hours, which in turn leads to a higher demand for employees.

Nicole: I think that the image in general has improved significantly in

What makes tourism an attractive employer? How does tourism differ from other industries?

And what are the disadvantages of working in tourism?

shortages and staff shortages exist in all sectors.

In tourism, too, of course. Why is that?

Nicole, can you briefly tell us about the association "Mensch im Tourismus"?

recent years. I also notice that conversations with parents are different from what they were 10 years ago. The image of tourism as an employer and trainer, on the other hand, still lags behind reality, but with many measures and the corresponding communication, the businesses and other actors are on the right track to moulding the image in a positive way.

Heike: Of course there are black sheep, like everywhere. But I know that there are a lot of white sheep that need to be brought to the fore. And the rest will follow suit. This change will take time, but it’s the right way to go. The measures we’re currently taking to make tourism even more attractive as an employer are the right ones. As Nicole has already said, only the image is still lagging behind a bit.

Nicole: The association “Mensch im Tourismus” (People in Tourism) was founded for this reason, among others, and has since developed into a quality network. Quality criteria for association membership were defined from the very beginning, such as the staff surveys. Once a year, the employees of about 80 tourism businesses in the country are surveyed to find out where there is potential for development, what can be improved and what is already going well. It’s precisely with measures like these that we’re sure to turn many black sheep into white sheep, thus making the tourism industry increasingly attractive.

originally are

Nicole: The association was originally founded as a partner for company training at GASCHT – Gastgeberschule für Tourismusberufe. It was always important to me to make sure that not only the teachers do a good job, but that the companies also offer quality during the training process. It all began with about 12 to 15 companies that were certified as so-called “excellent training companies”. Over time, more and more companies came to participate in GASCHT training and were also convinced that quality in training, as well as the quality of the workplace, must be objectively verifiable and that jointly defined quality criteria are therefore important. That was a really exciting process. In the meantime, the “Mensch im Tourismus” network has become an instrument for all those who are interested in working with quality businesses. Not only GASCHT, but also other schools and institutions recommend companies to this quality network and work together with them. By controlling the quality criteria, we have certainty about the quality of the training and the workplace. The network currently consists of 80 companies, and the number is growing.

Heike: OK, working from home is a bit difficult for a cook, that's true. But working in tourism is of course much more than cooking or ser vice. There are many more jobs in tourism. Our receptionist, for exam ple, also does our social media work for us in her home office, so she doesn't have to be on site for that. So flexibility is completely possible. Hourly modules of four to 48 hours do offer some possibilities. What I personally see as more of a problem is the two-season operation. But then you’re also fighting for a change to be able to offer flexibility for the whole year, and at the same time to be able to build a bond with the company through year-round positions.

Manuel: Flexibility is becoming more and more important. However, a business can only offer this if the guest (i.e. the customer) is a little more flexible. Sometimes there’s a lack of appreciation of tourism employees. They provide excellent services and are often taken for granted. How rare it is to hear a “please” or “thank you” or a brief conversation with a tourism staff member. It’s no longer a matter of course that someone works for you late at night or on a Sunday, cooks, cleans or serves a good meal. This must be valued more again. Then our professionals can also enjoy their profession more and be great hosts.

Heike: Of course, we’re also personally responsible for being able to of fer our employees reliability. If the duty roster says that duty ends at 10 pm, then it does. We must also be able to expect a certain understanding and a kind of discipline from our guests, as they also expect quality from us and our business. It still needs a bit of work here to meet as equals, but a lot has changed in the past few years and we’re really in a state of flux here.

Meanwhile, flexibility in the job is becoming more and more import ant. Can tourism offer an em ployer flexibility?

Adrian: For me personally, the reputation of the company is one of the important points. It should be assessed by the employees, as should positioning of the brand and the company itself. What we take for granted in Austria, such as staff accommodation, is anything but the norm in our neighbouring countries, and many people don't know that.

Heike: I also think we should keep the labour market of our neighbouring countries under closer observation. For example, we’re increasingly looking for staff in eastern European countries, but perhaps we forget from time to time that there are also many interested people from Germany, for example, who would like to work with us.

Nicole: We have to do a lot of educational work in part because many of our students are quickly influenced by the level of income. For example, when someone hears that you earn more in Switzerland, many want to take advantage of this opportunity for an internship in Switzerland. You can understand that. But they don’t think about the additional costs for accommodation, lodging, taxes and insurance. Here, we’re very much ahead.

Adrian: I’ve never taken much in the way of salary from an internship. For me, the experience has always been more important than the money. The quality of the training is clearly in the foreground for me and I also expect that from the company where I do the training.

Tourism employees in training: What are the important points, so that applicants actually choose a company?

Heike: Of course, we also have to move with the times. The generations have changed. But we have good ways of dealing with it and are respond ing to the future.

Manuel: I’m convinced that we need to focus on the businesses that are doing the discussed points right. We have so many great examples of companies that are doing a great job of meeting the needs of employ ees. And even the companies where these messages have not yet fully sunk in will follow suit in the coming years. That will certainly benefit the entire industry.

Nicole: I find the question very exciting. I sense this in my students: they want a job where they can develop. They want incentives and perspec tives. They want to go abroad and the like. Training and development opportunities and variety are high on the job selection list.

Nicole: I recently heard an exciting lecture by sociologist Thimon de Jong about how young people definitely don't want to work 100 per cent in one job any more. Things will develop in such a way that young peo ple will want to have time for different aspects of their lives and will also focus on that quite clearly. However, this doesn’t mean Netflix and the couch, but time for activities in clubs, sports, other jobs and possibly self-employment in addition to a part-time job. Is that the same for you, Adrian?

Adrian: It's exactly the same for me at the moment. I also work for a stu dent organisation in project management and once a week in the service industry. And for me, that’s a balance with everyday school life.

Heike: Here we are again with the well-known work-life balance. The four-day week, for example, is becoming more relevant for pursuing other interests apart from the job. To study or do training on the side, to be in a sports club, in the fire brigade or rescue service, or to have an additional job. As employers, we also have a part to play.

Does tourism also offer the possibility or enough flexibility to develop away from the job?

Have the demands on employees changed? Or vice versa – have the demands on employers changed?

#9

Manuel: For me, it’s important for the next generation to be aware that tourism is much more than kitchen, reception and service. If I no lon ger find fulfilment there, our industry offers so many opportunities for change. From guest services in a tourist information office, marketing positions and product development to event management. And if that's not enough, then maybe I'll choose a profession in cable car technology or guide guests on a hiking or mountain tour. Especially in times of high energy prices, it may be worthwhile to take a look at jobs close to home.

Nicole: Graduates from tourism schools have a strong presence wher ever they show up. They are young people who can communicate with others as equals and also know how to deal with people. Personality de velopment, but also etiquette and cultural diversity play an important role in my GASCHT.

Manuel: Training in tourism gives you so much for life. You learn how to deal with people, how to communicate, how to appear, how to pres ent yourself, etc. This is lacking in many other training programmes and that’s why other industries like to use trained tourism employees, because the prerequisites are simply different. This helps you for life. These are essential things for your entire professional and private ca reer.

Nicole: Tourism is “more” and I’m sure that this will also contribute again to a better training image in the longer term. Potential students and their parents need to know what opportunities an education in tourism actually offers. This goes far beyond the manual skills.

Heike: We deal with people every day who spend the most beautiful time of the year with us. To live hospitality here and also to receive di rect praise and recognition is simply heart-warming. The training path or the attitude towards it have also changed in my opinion. In the mean time, there are also many high school graduates who come to us after their school education and want even more. That has changed com pared to the past. For many parents, an apprenticeship in a tourism business was often not enough. The school-leaving qualification was a prerequisite and nothing else.

Briefly summarised once again: Why is working in tourism so special?

What makes working in tourism different for me is clearly the passion.

Adrian Bargehr

FRÜH BUCHEN LOHNT

SICH.

SUSTAINABLE MONTAFON

For people and the environment

As a tourism destination and at the same time as a living space, we in the Montafon bear responsibility for our precious natural and cultural landscape as well as for its inhabitants. The Montafon is more than just a valley. Topics such as environmental protection and sustainability are clearly important in the Montafon. On the following pages, we’ll show you some examples of ideas that have already become established for the protection and conscious use of the environment and its resources, and what the future holds.

ABOUT

PIZ – Future Laboratory for Sustainable Tourism

The “PIZ – Future Laboratory for Sustainable Tourism is a project of Montafon Tourismus GmbH. Its central objectives are to raise awareness of and provide information about sustainable tourism. Tourist businesses should be involved in order to form a network made up of experts and the “Next Generation“. New opportunities for the region should arise through the co-creative development of concrete solutions and highlighting examples of success.

What is a future lab?

PIZ Montafon: An innovation hub.

PIZ Montafon sees itself as an umbrella under which teams of internal and external people develop new ideas and approaches to solutions for the sustainable tourism of tomorrow and beyond. Attention is focused on new opportunities and possibilities that arise for the entire region.

PIZ Montafon: There are three distinct areas of action:

What topics does the PIZ Montafon deal with?

GREENMINDSET – the focus is on people. The aim is to create sustainable awareness and let a real movement emerge. We organise meetings, excursions and workshops.

GREENEXPERIENCES – the focus is on companies. The goal is sustainable experiences and products. We develop a roadmap and support companies in implementing it.

GREENDESTINATION – the focus is on the entire region. The goal is a sustainably certified destination with external visibility.

Why GREEN? Of course, we always define sustainability with the three dimensions of environment/nature, society and economy. At the same time, according to the priority model of sustainability, the “green dimension” of ecology is the overarching dimension that will guide all measures and solutions.

What are the overarching goals of PIZ Montafon?

PIZ Montafon: The Montafon is to become a real model region for sustainable tourism. Step by step, we’ll lay the foundation for this at PIZ Montafon. We’re currently in the process of working out a large and long-term vision that includes many individual measures and shows a “big picture” of a sustainable model region in 50 years.

PIZ Montafon: YES, you can! And it would be really great! No matter whether locals, guests or employees are involved in tourism. Have you been interested in the topic of “sustainability” for a long time? Are you interested in digitalisation? Are you open to a change of perspective?

You can find a contact form at piz.montafon.at/contact Please write to us!

Contact

PIZ – Future Laboratory for Sustainable Tourism Gerichtsweg 3 (Old Court) / 6780 Schruns piz@montafon.at / piz.montafon.at

MONTAFONER KRISTBERGBAHN UNITED ON THE PATH

Since 2020, the Montafoner Kristbergbahn has been using 100 percent green electricity for its 35-passenger gondola, two drag lifts, conveyor belt, snow-making system and heating. In addition, it has generated 38.5 per cent of its own electricity since 2021. For spring 2023, an additional 13,000 kilowatts are planned through the construction of further photovoltaic systems on both roof surfaces of the summit station.

The Montafoner Kristbergbahn operates climate-neutrally in all possible respects through “Turn to Zero”. What does that mean? As it’s not yet possible to achieve absolute climate-neutral implementation, selected climate projects are supported by the Illwerke vkw organisation “Turn to Zero”, thus offsetting consumption.

active partner in the “Silbertal e-car sharing” service. But not only that!

As organiser, pre-fi nancier and supervisor, in cooperation with the municipality of Silbertal, it was instrumental in the implementation of the fi rst Montafon e-car sharing model.

GREEN TICKET THE CLEAN WAY TO SKIING FUN

Together with Silvretta Montafon, Golm Adventure Mountain and Bergbahnen Brandnertal, Verkehrsverbund Vorarlberg (VVV) offers ski guests an environmentally friendly and convenient way to get to and from the resort. Ski guests can purchase the Green Ticket online and thus receive a combination of a ski day ticket for the named ski areas and a ticket for their arrival and departure by bus and train. Convenient arrival and departure, no queuing at the cable car ticket office, contactless lift ticket at the pick-up stations ... these are just a few of the many advantages of the Green Ticket!

Green Ticket -

The Green Ticket is valid for getting there by bus and train from all over Vorarlberg and from the border stations in Tyrol (St. Anton), Germany (Lindau) and Switzerland (Buchs/St. Margrethen) including departure. Get your Green Ticket here.

LARGEST E-CHARGING GARAGE IN VORARLBERG IN THE SILVRETTA PARK MONTAFON

With the largest e-charging garage in Vorarlberg and Austria's first autonomously operated 10-seater cable car, the Silvretta Montafon is taking important steps towards a more climate-friendly future. The newly constructed multifunctional building complex, the Silvretta Park Montafon, and the other Silvretta Montafon projects under the umbrella of the “Green Mountains Initiative” have the primary goal of firmly anchoring the idea of sustainability in the company's image. The combination of the new Valisera Bahn with the e-charging garage is one of the core elements of the plan. The e-charging garage is the largest in Vorarlberg. In cooperation with MOON POWER GmbH, it offers 50 charging points. There are 30 AC wall boxes in the exclusively bookable MOON Lounge with direct access to the cable cars and 20 publicly accessible charging options with a capacity of up to 22 kilowatts.

Want to know more about the “Green Mountains Initiative”? Then take a look right here!

GHÖRIG FESCHTA

As an event-intensive region, the Montafon is setting a strong and concrete example in terms of sustainability and careful treatment of nature at events of all kinds in a concept jointly developed by various interest groups. Because, not only for event organisers, but also for visitors, the environmentally friendly implementation of events is becoming increasingly important. The “ghörig feschta” project is getting a positive response. So far, more than 45 different projects and events have been supported. The aim is to establish a sustainable and climate-friendly event culture. Of course, the avoidance

or reduction of waste, the use of regional products, climate-friendly travel to and from events and the conservation of resources in the planning of events are also goals of “ghörig feschta”.

Do you want to know more about “ghörig feschta”? Then take a look right here!

THE HEARTBEAT OF THE MONTAFON

There, where the Verwall, Silvretta and Rätikon mountain ranges meet, is a very special place: the Montafon. A valley as diverse as the mountain ranges that picturesquely frame it. Here, longings are satisfi ed, stories are written and personal encounters become memories that endure. Everything you experience in the Montafon fi ts in with the breathtaking mountains. Because it’s authentic. And because it’s personal.

Montafon World Cup, M3 Montafon Mountainbike Marathon, Montafon Arlberg Marathon, Montafon Resonanzen, Montafon Legends Festival, Silvretta Classic Rallye Montafon, Montafon Totale Trail

MONTAFON MOUNTAIN CULTURE

Sura Kees, bonfire, organ landscape, Montafon table, solstice, Montafon Steinschaf (stone sheep), Montafon brown cows, alpine meadow landscape, pasture drive, Montafon dialect, traditional Montafon costume

MONTAFON DIALECT

“etschas bsondrix” – something special

The Montafon dialect is an intangible cultural asset of the UNESCO World Heritage and represents a speciality among Austrian dialects. Embedded in the Vorarlberg Aleman nic-Swabian dialect landscape, “Muntafunerisch” is characterised by the retention of older relic words from Rhaeto-Romanic. The Rhaeto-Romanic language was replaced in the late Middle Ages by Alemannic German (due to the immigration of the Walser people, amongst other reasons), but today there still remain at least 200 relic words, figures of speech and grammatical peculiarities as well as a broad inventory of phonemes that are almost entirely devoid of diphthongs (double vowels such as ai, oy, etc.). For example, numerous place, field and mountain names such as Schruns, Gortipohl, Vallüla or Piz Buin originate from Rhaeto-Romanic. Terms such as Quatterpätsch (salamander) and Mormenta (marmot) also belong to this language family.

Montafon Dialect

Juppa– Part of the costume

St. Anton im Montafon, Vandans, Bartholomäberg, Silbertal, Schruns, Tschagguns, Gargellen, St. Gallenkirch, Gortipohl, Gaschurn, Partenen

WE GIVE THE MONTAFON WINTER A FACE

Without them, nothing would work: our heroes of the winter ensure every day that your ski day in the Montafon is unforgettable. And they’re passionate about their work. But who is really behind the perfectly groomed slopes, the smooth operation at the mountain cableway ticket offi ce or the delicious meals in the mountain restaurants? We introduce you to some of the faces of the Montafon winter.

Roland – the piste and cross-country trail boss (Montafoner Kristbergbahn)

He rolls out the white carpet at night and ensures perfect pistes, cross-country trails and winter hiking paths all around. For 34 years now, Roland has been the piste and cross-country trail boss on the Kristberg pleasure mountain. “The contact with people, the work in the great outdoors and the satisfied smiles on the faces of our guests – that's what makes my job so varied. And of course the magnificent view and the peace and quiet here on the Kristberg enrich my work every day,” Roland enthuses.

By the way, you can also look over Roland's shoulder as he works. He gives an interesting insight into his work during the “Experience grooming live” mountain experience, including a ride on the snow groomer.

Kristberg Montafon

Kurt – the chef (Silvretta Montafon)

Kurt has been wielding the wooden spoon in the Silvretta Montafon for more than 30 years and spoils guests with culinary delights. During this time, he has cooked in 10 of the 11 mountain restaurants in the Silvretta Montafon. Kurt has been head chef at the Nova Stoba at 2,010 metres above sea level for many years now. It is not only the creative work, but also the wonderful view from his workplace that the enthusiastic chef appreciates.

Kurt is known for his culinary theme weeks, but typical Montafon specialities are, of course, also on the menu at the Nova Stoba, including Bŏlma-Nodla, Kurt's favourite dish. The best thing to do is try the sweet treat at a welcoming stop or simply recreate it at home using Kurt's recipe. You can find the recipe for this among the other recipes on the fold-out page towards the back of the magazine.

Emilia – the ticket sales and administration manager (Gargellner Bergbahnen)

Young and dynamic: that's Emilia. Her career at Gargellen cableways began as an intern. Today, six years later, the Montafon native is 23 years old and works as a ticket sales and administration manager. With a lot of commitment, she makes sure that everything to do with ticket sales, guest enquiries and business transactions runs smoothly. The “good soul of the administration”, as her colleagues like to call her, is passionate about her work. “Selling what you love to do yourself – being in the mountains – is incredible fun,” Emilia emphasises. What the young woman also appreciates about her job is the balance between guest contact at ticket sales and the administrative work in the office.

Christoph – the tunnel bus driver (Silvretta-Bielerhöhe)

His workplace is the Silvretta. Christoph began his career as a tunnel bus driver there in 2019, bringing guests safely through the narrow tunnel system in winter. Today, the Montafon native holds the position of Deputy Operations Manager in Team Silvretta and is responsible for accessibility to the power plants, among other things. He is also responsible for cable car operations as well as for maintaining the pistes, cross-country ski runs and winter hiking trails on the Silvretta-Bielerhöhe. Christoph thinks back fondly to his early days as a tunnel bus driver: “For me, driving the tunnel bus was a good opportunity to get to know the diverse activities in Team Silvretta. In the process, I was also involved in work related to cable car control right from the start and, as they say, I tasted blood.”

Lara – the slope attendant (Erlebnisberg Golm)

Lara has been working at Golm Adventure Mountain for six years – in summer as deputy manager of the Golm forest rope course, while in winter the young woman is active in the piste service and thus jointly responsible for ensuring perfect fun in the snow. “My working day is very varied and my tasks range from securing the pistes to checking the piste markings and working on the snow-making systems. Then there are services in piste rescue and support in avalanche blasting operations. You’re out in the fresh air and on the move all day – that's fun," says Lara enthusiastically.

If you’re wondering what the “My Montafon Online Magazine” is all about, we’ll give you the answer here. Don't worry. You won't be inundated with facts and figures. On the contrary. In our online magazine, we take you with us on our favourite tours, inform you about exciting projects in the valley and tell you the unforgettable stories that unfold in the Montafon each day. And all this with personal impressions from our life here in the Montafon. Real and authentic.

montafon.at/de/Mein-Magazin

Have fun reading!

MY MONTAFON ONLINE MAGAZINE MONTAFON APP

MONTAFON APP FOR SMARTPHONES YOUR INTERACTIVE GUIDE

You’ll find everything your mountain heart desires in our Montafon app! From GPS tracks of various hikes and different mountain tours, (e-)mountain bike tours and via ferratas in summer to trails for winter hikes, snowshoe or ski tours and cross-country ski trails in winter. Discover the loveliest tours in the region with the Montafon app and use it to track your own personal route. You’ll also find everything you need to know from A to Z, such as events, webcams, weather reports or accommodation.

montafon.at/montafon-app

THE MONTAFON

The Montafon – a valley between mountains, shaped by glaciers and rising towards the far end. A unique valley with its own peculiarities and characteristics. But how does it actually feel to live in this southernmost corner of Vorarlberg? What awaits those interested in the nooks and crannies of our homeland?

Among rugged peaks, you’ll experience lively village life, cultural-historical attractions and authentic customs. Even intangible things like hospitality and joie de vivre have found their home in the Montafon. A valley that is more than the sum of its parts. A valley for everybody. A whole. In our Montafon Podcast “Real mountains.

Real experiences." Jens meets real Montafoners in the second season. Our podcast gives you an exclusive look behind the scenes, so you can get to know the Montafon and its many hard-working people even better.

Want to find out more? Then listen in right now – wherever podcasts are available! montafon.at/Podcast

Season

9 episodes

Start of the summer season / Montafon in transition / Montafon alpine summer / An alpine valley full of traditions / Start of the winter season / Safety on the mountain / Skiing in the Montafon / Montafon as a home of choice/ Sustainable Montafon

DERMONTAFON

“SPORTLERFAMILIE MONTAFON ”

Achieving great things together

Around 25 Montafon professional and junior athletes in the sports organised in the Austrian Ski Association, as well as mountain biking, belong to the Sportlerfamilie Montafon (Montafon family of athletes). All “family members” embody the sporty side of the Montafon.

The Montafon stands for top-class outdoor sports and real mountain experiences. As one of the sportiest valleys in Vorarlberg, the Montafon has already produced numerous talents. To promote this positioning, Montafon Tourism has been supporting local professional and young, up-and-coming athletes under the umbrella of “Sportlerfamilie Montafon” since 2015. From alpine skiing to snowboarding and mountain biking

The “Sportlerfamilie Montafon” is considered an advertising medium for the valley. The Montafon tourism office supports young top athletes financially in return and pays tribute to their achievements. Different funding conditions are applied and mutual benefits are agreed.

REQUIREMENTS

Athletes must fulfil a number of criteria to become part of the “Sportlerfamilie Montafon”: they must come from the Montafon or be members of a Montafon club whose training facility is based in the valley. Athletes must be at least 16 years old and participate in national and international competitions. It is also important that the aspirants want to gain a foothold in professional sport. A correct and exemplary appearance goes without saying.

Fact boxInternational and national successes

The “Sportlerfamilie Montafon” currently numbers around 25 athletes who have achieved national and international success. The promotion of professional and junior athletes contributes enormously to the image of the entire valley. That’s especially so since all our family members embody the sporty Montafon brand and the genuine mountain experience that Montafon stands for. The best example this season is Alessandro Hämmerle, who has achieved international fame as an Olympic champion. Performances in the youth segment are also quite respectable. For example, ski racer Emily Schöpf celebrated successes in the European Cup last year and had her first experience of the Ski World Cup this year.

■ Alpine skiing: Amanda Salzgeber, Angelina Salzgeber, Emily Schöpf, Emma Amann, Sarah Mangeng, Moritz Zudrell

■ Ski Cross: Simon Fleisch

■ Snowboard Cross/Snowboard: Alessandro Hämmerle, Luca Hämmerle, Thomas Feuerstein

■ Young snowboarders (snowboard squad from the Vorarlberg Ski Association, including athletes from the Montafon): Valentin Bachmann, Luca Walter

■ Ski mountaineering: Daniel Zugg, Daniel Ganahl, Lukas Hausberger

■ Mountain biking: Tobias Jenny

WORLD CUP MONTAFON

Excitement, sport and a top atmosphere

From 7 to 9 December 2022, the name of the game in the Montafon will again be top sport on the mountain and a top atmosphere in the valley at the Tenth Montafon World Cup !

During the FIS Snowboard Cross World Cup and the Audi FIS Ski Cross World Cup, international sporting greats come together on the steep, twisting courses in the Silvretta Montafon ski area. Countless fans will witness the spectacular jumps and overtaking manoeuvres of the snowboard crossers along the race course and at the finish. After the training and qualification days at the beginning of the week, the international athletes will start their quest for the coveted podium places on the Thursday and Friday.

LOCAL HERO Alessandro Hämmerle

Of course, our three-time overall World Cup winner Alessandro “Izzi” Hämmerle from Gaschurn will also be at the start again. After his fabulous Olympic victory in Beijing in 2022 as well as his three Montafon World Cup victories in a row, the excitement is of course especially high this year!

Full information about the Montafon World Cup and what else is happening that weekend can be found on our website at worldcup-montafon.at

Challenging course

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■ 2.5 kilometres of safety nets

■ Specialised piste builders in action: 3 machinists / 4 shapers / 1 chief of course

■ Amount of snow required: 80,000 cubic metres

■ 3 snow groomers for course construction / 2 machines to push snow / 1 excavator

■ Start of snow production: (from October at the earliest)

■ Depending on course design, 4-5 steep turns, 900 metres long

■ Start of construction: 26 November 2022

■ 0.8 kilometres of timing cable

The home World Cup is a huge highlight for me every season! Competing against the best in the world in front of a home crowd, virtually right on our own doorstep, always motivates me so very much – it’s something truly

own vates truly

Hämmerle

MONTAFON 27

FIS FREESTYLE, FREESKI AND SNOWBOARD WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 2027

A region that is anchored in history. A valley passionate about sport in the heart of the Alps. The Montafon loves challenges and the latest challenge has already been confi rmed: The FIS Freestyle, Freeski and Snowboard 2027 championships are coming to the Montafon!

The 2027 world championships will be organised by the ÖSV in conjunction with the Montafon Ski Club, the communities in the valley, the province of Vorarlberg, the Montafon tourism office and the Montafon cableways. According to Roman Kuss from the ÖSV, the aim of the world championships is to give a strong impulse to winter sports. It is a matter of “bringing children back to the mountain,” said Kuss. Manuel Bitschnau, Managing Director of Montafon Tourism, described the World Cup as a “milestone” for Montafon. The award is a confirmation of the region's winter sports competence. And don't forget: all the municipalities of the Montafon are taking part!

“The venues are to be spread all over the valley,” said the Mayor of Schruns and representative of the eight municipalities, Jürgen Kuster. The communities considered the application very carefully and finally decided in favour of the big event.

Sports Minister Martina Rüscher (ÖVP) described the application as a “courageous initiative”, which is not only important for economic and tourist reasons, but also serves as a role model for young people.

The biggest winter sports event of all time in Vorarlberg will therefore take place in the Montafon in 2027.

At the FIS Congress in Milan in spring 2022, the ÖSV and the Montafon won the bid for the top sporting event in Vorarlberg.

Facts and application video (QR code)

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■ 1 valley

■ 4 ski areas

■ 5 venues

■ 11 locations

■ 13 days

■ 29 medal decisions

POTENTIAL EVENT LOCATIONS

Moguls

Big Air Ski

Big Air Snowboard Ski Aerials

Alpine Snowboard - PSL

Alpine Snowboard - PGS

Halfpipe Ski Halfpipe Snowboard

St. Anton im Montafon

Vandans Silbertal Bartholomäberg

GOLM SCHRUNS

TYROL

St. Gallenkirch

Gortipohl

Ski Cross Snowboard Cross Snowboard Cross / Team Slopestyle Ski Slopestyle Snowboard

GRASJOCH TSCHAGGUNS SCHAFBERG

Gargellen Partenen

Gaschurn

Silvretta-Bielerhöhe

Medal Plaza Media Center Race Office TD Meeting KÜHTAI

We are delighted to have been awarded the contract and that Austria can now host the world championships in these disciplines for the second time, following on from Kreischberg in 2015. Our aim is to offer the athletes the biggest possible stage so that they can perform at their best. Our thanks go to the province of Vorarlberg, the Montafon tourism office, the Montafon cableways, the Montafon municipalities, the Montafon Ski Club and all stakeholders who have made this event possible.

ÖSV Secretary General Christian Scherer

LOOK FORWARD TO SUMMER 2023

NEW: HIKING IN THE MONTAFON ALPINE MOSAIC

In the Montafon, you can delve into an extremely exciting area. Millions of years ago, the greatest geological diversity of the Alps with a colourful variety of rocks and landscape shapes was formed here over a very small area. The Montafon Alpine Mosaic takes you on more than 30 themed trails and four adventure areas through this unique scenic and cultural diversity: the lively valley, the quiet Verwall, the adventurous Silvretta and the rich Rätikon. alpenmosaik-montafon.at

MONTAFON HOUSE TRAIL (VALLEY)

... shows the special features of typical residential and farm houses as they were built in the valley from the 15th to the 20th century. They are inseparably linked to the cultural landscape of the Montafon. Along the way, one characteristic feature of each Montafon house is explained.

Rätikon Verwall Valley Silvretta

VALLEY

RÄTIKON

SMUGGLERS TRAIL (RÄTIKON)

... follows the tracks of the smugglers who once sneaked across the border into Switzerland or back to Vorarlberg by night and in fog. On the loop trail, you’ll go around the Gargellner Köpfe and cross two “Jochs”. The return is via the Gafierjoch to the Schafberghüsli with many new impressions.

ALPGUES LOOP TRAIL (VERWALL)

... offers fantastic views of the almost untouched landscape of the Verwall European Conservation Area, which with its lakes, moors, larch forests and peaks with great views is home to n umerous rare animal and plant species. The destination of the hike is the picturesquely situated Alpe Gues, a former alpine dairy.

AROUND THE HOHES RAD (SILVRETTA)

... leads up to the saddle of the Hohes Rad. This challenging loop hike is not considered one of the most beautiful in the Silvretta for nothing. On the tour, an almost unreal panorama of the Silvretta’s fascinating glaciers opens up, leaving you in awe.

VIA FERRATA AND (E-)MOUNTAIN BIKE TOURS IN THE MONTAFON

A total of 24 via ferratas await you in the Montafon – from beginner-friendly to challenging – and promise a panoramic adventure as you climb. You’ll find detailed information and tips on the individual via ferratas in our via ferrata brochure.

Regardless of whether you’re at home on steep mountain passes or opt for an (e-)mountain bike tour with less of a climb, the Montafon has a diverse network of cycling and (e-)mountain bike trails extending over 260 kilometres. Numerous guided (e-)mountain bike tours as part of the BergePLUS programme complete the offer.

LEGAL NOTICE

Montafon Tourismus GmbH: 6780 Schruns, Vorarlberg, Austria, T. +43 50 6686, info@montafon.at, montafon.at, Editorial team : Franziska Nitschmann and Hannah Fritsche (content) / Chien-Jen Wang (design, typesetting), Font: Freightsans, Freightdisplay, Trade Gothic, Jacket: FSC mix credit Off set, 300g/m², Body : FSC mix credit Off set, 110g/m², Print run: 18,600 copies. (D) / 1,400 copies (EN), Printing: Vorarlberger Verlagsanstalt GmbH, Dornbirn – printed climate-neutrally in Vorarlberg, Picture credits: Montafon Tourismus GmbH: Christian Hirschmann, Marie-Christin Rudigier, Stefan Kothner, Maximilian Laborenz, Alexander Fuchs, Andreas Haller, Daniel Zangerl, matak studios – Markus Gmeiner & Karin Faltejsek, Imago Images; Valisera Bahn - Doppelmayr Seilbahnen GmbH - Mathäus Gartner, Silvretta Montafon: Frederike Weber, GSL-Toursmus: Philipp Schilcher, Kristbergbahn: Patrick. Säly, Peakmedia - Dominik Zwerger, Alexander Kuster, Vorarlberg Tourismus: Rupert Mühlbacher, Illustration: Andreas Posselt, Panorama map: Silvretta Montafon.

SILVRETTA

VERWALL

OUR VALUES

steeped in history

The traces of the 4,000-year-old settlement history of the Montafon are still omnipresent today in agriculture, energy production, transport routes and tourism and can be experienced by everyone.

pioneering

Thanks to progressive ideas, bold decisions and trend-setting projects for the development of the mountains, the foundations for both summer and winter tourism in the Montafon were laid early on and continue to influence the development of the region to this day.

rural

The three-tier system of agriculture with the traditional alpine pasture land (Maisäss), the breeding of Montafon cattle and Steinschaf sheep as well as the annual pasture drive are evidence of the active cultivation of the alpine pastures in a well-preserved cultural landscape.

hardworking

The local population has always demonstrated great diligence in providing comprehensive infrastructure to ensure that nature is made accessible to the people in the Montafon and can be experienced in all its diverse facets.

unconventional

The people of Montafon are proud of their regional products, their own architectural style and their customs and traditions, which have been lived for centuries and are still passed on from generation to generation.