travel guide Bregenzerwald by Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH

bregenzerwald

b rege n z e rwald

wi nter 2009 / 10

travel guide

Bregenzerwald Tourismus

wi nter 2009/2010

Impulszentrum 1135 . 6863 Egg . Vorarlberg . Austria T +43 (0)5512 2365 . F +43 (0)5512 3010 info@bregenzerwald.at . www.bregenzerwald.at

Ideas and Addresses. Your guide through the Bregenzerwald.

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how to reach us

Munich 280 km

Friedrichshafen 95 km Memmingen 80 km

Lake Constance

Altenrhein 80 km Zurich 150 km

Bregenzerwald Klein walsertal

BodenseeVorarlberg

Arlberg FL

Alpenregion Bludenz

Innsbruck 135 km

Montafon CH

Editor:

Photographs:

Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH,

Adolf Bereuter (Titelbild, p. 12/22/50/68/78/88)

Impulszentrum 1135, 6863 Egg

Christoph Lingg (p. 67/70/72/74/76/86/90) Dietmar Walser www.walser-image.com (p. 14/98)

Design by:

Helmut Tiefenthaler (p. 56/57/58/59/66)

broger grafik, Andelsbuch

Ludwig Berchtold (p. 18/91) Monika Albrecht (p. 35)

Printed by:

Marc Van Landeghem (p. 71)

VVA, Dornbirn

Peter Mathis (p. 84) Roswitha Natter (p. 80)

Text by:

Rudolf Berchtel (p. 60/61/62/63/64)

Kinz Kommunikation

“Die Vorarlberger Barockbaumeister”, Franz Dieth (p. 83)

Florian Aicher (p. 8–9, 76–77, 78–79, 80–81, 82–83)

Archiv Au-Schoppernau Tourismus (p. 8/65/82)

Kurt Bracharz (p. 88–89)

Archiv Bregenzerwald Tourismus (p. 52) Archiv KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald (p. 92)

Carthography:

Archiv Damüls Tourismus (p. 4)

Aries Werbegrafik-Design

Archiv Hotel Hirschen, Schwarzenberg (p. 85)

Text and planning of hiking routes: Dr. Rudolf Berchtel

Archiv Hotel Krone Au (p. 94)

Archiv Hotel Lifestyle Resort Sonne Mellau (p. 96)

By car from the north • Stuttgart-Ulm-Lindau • or München-Memmingen-Lindau from the west via Swiss motorways* via Zurich-St. GallenSt. Margrethen from the south via the routes • Brenner motorway-Innsbruck- Arlberg pass-Lech-Warth** • or Arlberg road tunnel*-BludenzGroßes Walsertal- Bregenzerwald • or Arlberg road tunnel*-FeldkirchDornbirn-Bregenzerwald • Como-San Bernardino-ChurSt. Margrethen*-Bregenzerwald from the east • Innsbruck-Arlberg pass-LechWarth** • or Arlberg road tunnel*-BludenzGroßes Walsertal-Bregenzerwald • or Arlberg road tunnel*-FeldkirchDornbirn-Bregenzerwald

toll sticker required by law A toll applies to the use of Austria’s motorways and dual carriageways. Types of toll sticker: “corridor” toll (border of Germany to the Hohenems exit), 10-day, 2-month and yearly stickers. Information: www.asfinag.at By train The closest railway stations: • Bregenz (A): 25 km • Dornbirn (A): 17 km • St. Margrethen (CH): 28 km • Lindau (D): 32 km Timetable information: www.oebb.at Onward travel by public buses: www.vmobil.at By aeroplane • Zurich (CH): several direct train connections to Bregenz • Friedrichshafen (D): transfers to the Bregenzerwald • Memmingen (D) • Munich (D) • Innsbruck (A)

Archiv Ski! Projekt (p. 32) Data and prices subject to change. Typographical errors cannot be excluded. Edition: September 2009

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Archiv Skischule Schwarzenberg (p. 51)

toll road

** closed in winter

20.08.2009 15:26:59

contents

land & lives........................................... 4 The Bregenzerwald 4 For your orientation 6 Living space 8 Snow levels 10 ski & board.......................................... 11 3-valley ski pass 12 Diedamskopf Au-Schoppernau 14 Damüls-Mellau-Faschina 18 Warth-Schröcken 22 Alberschwende 26 Bödele-Schwarzenberg 27 Egg-Schetteregg 28 Hochhäderich 29 Niedere Andelsbuch-Bezau 30 Hochlitten Riefensberg 31 Ski! project 32 ski & freedom...................................... 33 Map of the area 34 Interesting information 35 Skiing tours 36 Variation skiing 38 xc skiing............................................... 39 Au-Schoppernau 40 Bezau-Bizau-Reuthe 41 Damüls 42 Hittisau 43 Mellau-Schnepfau 44 Riefensberg-Hochhäderich 45 Sibratsgfäll 46 Sulzberg 47 Warth-Schröcken 48

family tips........................................... 49 Kids’ programme 50 Day trip tips 54 active winter...................................... 55 Winter hiking 56 Snow-shoe hikes 68 Horse and carriage rides 70 Dog sleigh tours 71 Tobogganing 72 Adventure 74 culture................................................. 75 Everyday culture 76 Architecture 78 Bregenzerwald werkraum 80 Au Guild 82 Cabaret & village culture 84 Music salons in hotels 85 Exhibitions, museums & craftwork 86 dining out........................................... 87 Bregenzerwald culinary delights region 88 Outstanding 90 The healthy and the extravagant 91 well-being .......................................... 93 Health hotels 94 Wellness hotels 95 Wellness days 96 Vorarlberg How to reach us

98 99

the bregenzerwald

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

Life and living 30,000 people live in the Bregenzer wald, in 22 villages in total. The Bregenzerwald locals have always made sure that their living space is carefully designed. This applies to themselves as well as to their guests. The villages are strikingly attractive. The exciting combination of old and modern wooden architecture takes you by surprise. The mountains have been moderately developed. The accommodation and food are of high quality. In the well-tended inns and restaurants, the chefs are masters of pepping up regional specialities, making them into magnificent creations. Most of the produce used comes from local farms. Even during the winter months, the village dairy farms along the KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald demonstrate how milk is made into cheese. Events and tasting sessions are features on the cheese culture agenda. Exhibitions and concerts allow you an insight into the cultural goings-on.

the bregenzerwald

5 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom

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

culture dining out

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

active winter

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

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

family tips

Ski tourers and those variation skiers who like to leave their tracks on the unprepared slopes also benefit from the great deal of snow. Conditions in the Bregenzerwald are great for both groups of people. Ski schools offer appropriate courses, and package deals can be booked at Bregenzerwald Tourismus.

Hiking and more There are plenty activities for those whose winter enjoyment is found away from the piste. Winter hiking paths guide you through picturesque landscapes to lovely viewpoints. Cross-country ski runs follow rivers, penetrate woods and take you across white plateaux. If you prefer, you can hike through the wintery valleys on snow shoes. There are toboggan runs aplenty. There is a diverse, varied range of programmes on offer for families with children.

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

well-being

for your orientation

Widderstein

2533 m

Lechtal Innsbruck Reutte

WARTH 1495 m

Hoher Ifen 2230 m

Diedamskopf 2090 m

Hochtannberg 1676 m

SCHR 12

SCHOPPERNAU 860 m Hirschberg 1834 m

AU 800 m Damüls

Winterstaude 1877 m

SIBRATSGFÄLL 929 m

Niedere 1711 m

Baumgarten 1620 m

Balderschwang (D)

So Hochhäderich 1566 m

SCHETTEREGG 1066 m HITTISAU 790 m Kojen 1300 m

Hochlitten 971 m

LINGENAU 687 m

KRUMBACH 733 m

RIEFENSBERG 781 m Aach (D)

ANDELSBUCH 613 m GROSSDORF 662 m

EGG 564 m Tannerberg

MÜSELBACH 585 m

Dress

LANGENEGG 695 m DOREN 709 m

SULZBERG 1015 m

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

1095 m

LANGEN 657 m

Pfänder 1062 m

F 7

Scheidegg

Hohenweiler

Lindau Friedrichshafen München Ulm Stuttgart (D) Lochau

for your orientation

416 m

2403 m

Braunarlspitze

Mohnenfluh

Glatthorn

Zafernhorn

2134m

2107 m

2649 m

2544 m

Hochkünzelspitze 2397 m

Saloberkopf

Lech

Portlahorn 2010 m

Faschina 1486 m

Uga

1850 m

2095 m

2006 m

Ragazer Blanken

DAMÜLS 1431 m

Mittagspitze

Hohe Wacht

2051 m

Kanisfluh 2044 m

oje

ski & board

Körbersee

RÖCKEN 260 m

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Zitterklapfen

arhorn

Hochblanken 2068 m

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Wildgunten 1705 m

Roßstelle 1391 m

SCHNEPFAU 734 m

Hoher Freschen

MELLAU 688 m

onderdach 1208 m

REUTHE 650 m Hochälpelekopf

BEZAU 650 m

1463 m

BERSBUCH 612 m

Staufen 1465 m

BÖDELE 1139 m

SCHWARZENBERG 700 m

slerberg

Karren

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Brüggelekopf 1182 m

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2004 m

BIZAU 681 m

976 m

DORNBIRN 475 m

Bildstein 760 m

Fluh 730 m

Kennelbach

Pfändertunnel

REGENZ

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

Bre gen zer ac he

St. Gallen (CH)

ein

HÖCHST

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Dornbirn Süd

LAUTERACH

400 m

Dornbirn Nord

culture

SCHWARZACH 438 m WOLFURT 412 m

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ALBERSCHWENDE 721 m

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living space

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

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

Crossings Cross-border experiences also leave Up and over is the way to go – the most their mark on the locals – they know how to set themselves apart from impressive views are from the north outside. Yet the scarce rural areas and the west – and a space is revealed which, in all its diversity, is completely have never been sufficient to feed the population. The locals had to get different to all that surrounds it, with moving, cross borders, leave behind the Bregenzerache uniting it all. Your their homes and families. This route takes you through gorges and took on many different forms: the flat hollows – wide between the hills nomadic existence of alpine animal of the foothills of the Alps around Alberschwende and Lingenau, narrow husbandry (home, mountain pasture, between the mountains of the foothills alp → page 88), or in the form of seasonal migrant work (baroque master of the Alps around Andelsbuch and Bezau, squeezed in between the alpine builders, Au Guild → page 82), outbound commuting or even emigration peaks of the Kanisfluh, Diedams (to America in the 19th century in parkopf, Zitterklapfen and Widderstein ticular). Flexibility, ideas and self-help around Schnepfau, Au, Schoppernau, were essential to stave off poverty. Warth and Schröcken. This correlates The area was only sparsely populated with the division into the Vorderfor a long time: only plot names give wald, Mittelwald and Hinterwald rise to assumptions about the border (front, central and rear regions of the between Celtic and Rhaeto-Romanic Bregenzerwald) – a topographical

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9 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom

Au and the Kanisfluh

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This culture has succeeded in maintaining its vitality. Innovation and flexibility based on the acquired continue today in initiatives such as the werkraum (→ page 80) and have turned the Bregenzerwald into a model European region.

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Hard cheese and lace It was during this time that the region developed in the form you see today. Rational, mercantile methods gained importance in agriculture, desertedness became characteristic of the Vorderwald to the Mittelwald, production of hard cheese grew (alpine dairy → page 76) to such a sustainable

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

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cultures. It was not until the High Middle Ages that Mehrerau Monastery in Bregenz encouraged the population of the area upwards of the Bregenzerache. From above, coming the opposite direction, you come across a second wave of population with the Walsers. The particle “Wald” (forest, wood) found in many of the names of places makes it clear how undeveloped this settlement area was for a long time. Naturally, the locals gladly take advantage of this remoteness: interesting as a hunting ground at best for the feudal rulers, extensive autonomy was allowed to develop which went down in literature as a “peasants’ republic”. It ended with the brief Bavarian occupation (1806 – 1814) as a result of the realignment of Europe by Napoleon.

snow levels

175.1

179.8

170.7

156.8

97.5

91.5

16.9

October

November

December

January

February

March

April

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

What makes winter into winter? Snow, of course! Thanks to its location on the northern edge of the Alps, an above-average amount of snow falls in the Bregenzerwald. With precipitation amounting to 2,000 mm per year (up to 3,000 mm at higher altitudes), the Bregenzerwald is one of the highest-precipitation regions in Austria (average 900 mm).

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

Damüls, a village at an altitude of 1,400 m, even bears the title “the world’s village most assured of snow”. During his investigations in 2005, a journalist from Nuremberg discovered that, thanks to their exposed backwater position, the villages along the northern Alps break records in their annual amounts of new snow. He then compared the measurements with those of recognised weather stations from the past five years. The result? Per winter, almost 10 m of new snow falls in Damüls, which earned the village the title “the permanently inhabited village most assured of snow in the world”. In 2008 the British “Daily Mail”, in turn, honoured Warth-Schröcken with the title “Europe’s skiing area most assured of snow”. The snow readings from a whole century formed the basis of this assessment. The average amount of new snow in Warth-Schröcken also exceeds 10 metres per winter.

11 land & lives ski & freedom xc skiing

The Bregenzerwaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s skiing areas have pistes for all tastes and all levels, the most Â up-to-date lifts, cosy mountain inns and lovely lookout points. Put simply: a joy for skiers and snowboarders!

ski & board

family tips active winter culture dining out well-being

3-valley ski pass

In the Warth-Schröcken skiing area

The 3-valley ski pass is valid for 31 skiing areas in the Bregenzerwald, in the Große Walsertal, in the Lechtal, in Balderschwang (in Allgäu) and on the ski buses. You can choose from ski passes for between 2.5 and 21 days, special passes for between 2, 5 and 8 days and season passes.

Season dates low season Start of the season by 19 December 2009 9 until 31 January 27 February until 27 March 11 April until the end of the 2010 season

These prices are valid for all those who produce a Guest Card from any town or village in the Bregenzerwald. Anyone not possessing such a Guest Card pays an additional € 4.00 per ski pass.

high season 20 December 2009 until 8 January 2010 1 February until 26 February 28 March until 10 April 2010

Should the high and low seasons overlap, a mixed price is calculated. It is possible to extend a 3-valley pass valid for at least 2.5 days by one day. Group tariffs apply from 18 people.

Age limits Senior ladies, born in 1950 and older Senior men, born in 1945 and older Youths, born in 1991 – 1993 Kids, born in 1994 – 2003 Snowman, born in 2004 or later

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

Free ski buses Holders of the 3-valley ski pass can use the public buses to reach their chosen skiing area. In addition, ski buses which can also be used free of charge operate in numerous villages.

an m ow Sn

re i ld Ch

s th Yo u

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

A H dul ig ts h se as

tim ay s/ D

6 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 8

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

culture well-being

Facts and figures Bregenzerwald skiing region 17 skiing areas 93 lifts, comprising 6 cable cars 30 chair lifts 57 ski tows and practice lifts 225 km of prepared pistes, comprising 94 km of blue pistes 129 km of red pistes 32 km of black pistes

active winter

Prices in â&#x201A;Ź * additional day immediately following the ski pass from 2.5 days ** valid for the entire season

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17 46 51 64 76 88 98 108 117 127 136 145 151 158 164 171 176 181 186 190 194 37 87 126

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30 81 90 112 134 154 172 190 206 223 239 255 266 279 289 301 310 319 328 335 341 66 153 222

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33 88 97 121 145 167 186 205 223 241 258 275 287 301 312 324 335 344 354 361 368 71 165 240

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AD* 34 34 2.5 92 88 3 102 97 4 127 121 5 152 145 6 175 167 7 195 186 8 215 205 9 234 223 10 253 241 11 271 258 12 289 275 13 302 287 14 316 301 15 328 312 16 341 324 17 352 335 18 362 344 19 372 354 20 380 361 21 387 368 2 x 1 day** 74 5 x 1 day** 173 8 x 1 day** 252

13 land & lives

3-valley ski pass

diedamskopf au-schoppernau

Diedamskopf with the panoramic cable car and mountain restaurant

The skiing area of Au-Schoppernau is located on the Diedamskopf, at an altitude of 2,090 m above sea level. From the mountain plateau, you get a magnificent panorama as far as Lake Constance and way across the surrounding mountains. The Diedamskopf is also well-known for its colourful paragliding and hanggliding scene. Night-time skiing at the Grunholz lift in Au The Grunholz lift is easy to reach in Au. The ski tow opens up two lovely, gently sloping pistes. This is one of the few places in the Bregenzerwald that you can ski and toboggan in the evening under floodlight. Evening opening times are every Wednesday and Friday between 7 and 10 p.m. The right-hand piste is open for skiers, the left-hand piste for tobogganists. The three-valley ski pass is valid on the lift.

Tip: The fit choose the 10 km-long valley descent, with a difference in altitude of 1,200 m!

Guest kindergarten in Didi’s kids’ adventure land On the top floor of the mountain station of the cable car, a kids’ adventure land 300 m² in size awaits with a bouncy castle, crawl tunnel, balancing boards, softball, climbing tower with slide, a tractor station, painting and handicrafts corner, and much more. Kids are supervised and can spend the whole day or a few hours playing here. Didi’s kids’ adventure land is open between 10 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. when the cable car is operating, and is free for all 3 to 8-year-old guest children from Au-Schoppernau. Children from other villages pay € 1.50 per hour. Lunch is also available upon request. A child’s menu costs € 6.90. Drinks are free for kids during their time in the kids’ adventure land. There is a parent-child area for children between 0 and 3 years of age. Admission is free.

diedamskopf au-schoppernau

active winter culture

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

family tips

ski school & children’s ski school Au-Schoppernau snow sports school T +43 (0)5515 2133 or +43 (0)664 1349318 www.au-schoppernau.at/ schneesportschule

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

ski & freedom

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 44 km of which: 14 km are blue pistes 14 km are red pistes 7 km are black pistes 9 km of ski trails

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day ticket (high season) Adult: € 35.50 Child: € 19.50

dining out

après ski Schoppernau: Ski Inn, „Alte Schmiede“ Bar Au: Ur-Alp restaurant

well-being

Sajas Diedamspark and Freeriding Sajas Diedamspark is run by QParks, the market leader. S nowboarders and free skiers of all levels find the ideal elements such as rails, boxes and kickers on the site, perfectly suited to its use. In addition to steep shoots and gap jumps on the D iedamskopf, you will find any amount of first-class sports for powder kickers. The runs in the hollow on the Krüzle lift are a classic. The terrain is fairly steep: and that is why it is imperative to always obey the avalanche warning levels! www.diedamspark.at

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

land & lives

Innovative and child-friendly: the snow sports school The Au-Schoppernau snow sports school was awarded the innovation prize by Vorarlberg Tourismus in 2006. Kids playfully take their first steps on skis in “Didiland”. There are three moving walkways, a carousel, shuggy boats, a snow igloo, a tent and a lot more. The ski courses for older children include an adventure and safety programme with a BBQ in the tepee, snow-rafting on a skidoo, abseiling and jumping on the bungee trampoline. The bungee trampoline allows you to train your physical condition and practice jumps. The snow sports school’s safety camps inform children about everything they need to know regarding “safety in snow sports”. The courses are held in two igloos.

diedamskopf au-schoppernau

17 diedamskopf au-schoppernau

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damüls-mellau-faschina

Powder snow run in Mellau

From this winter, the merger of two existing skiing areas will result in the largest skiing area in the whole of the Bregenzerwald: the villages of Damüls and Mellau are entering into a longprepared partnership. New cable car Starting in Mellau, the centrally located village at the foot of the mighty Kanisfluh, the new cable car from the central station on the “Hohe Wacht” continues to Damüls. An eight-seater cable car transports skiers and snowboarders to the Damüls side of the skiing area in a flash. The union not only joins the southern slopes of Damüls with the northern slopes of Mellau – it also creates new pistes. Damüls, the village most assured of snow In a comparison measurement over several years, a journalist from Germany ascertained that almost 10 m of new snow falls in Damüls each winter. This was the record value amongst all the villages measured.

Hence, Damüls has been the proud bearer of the title “the permanently inhabited village most assured of snow in the world” since 2005. Damüls, a picturesque, old Walser village, benefits from its location on the northern edge of the Alps at an altitude of 1,400 m above sea level. Most hotels and guest houses are situated directly on the slopes. As soon as they step out of the front door, skiers step out on to the skiing area whose highest point is located at 2,100 m above sea level. A slope even passes the village church, worth seeing from a cultural historical point of view. Burton Snowpark in Damüls Supervision and park management are the responsibility of Alton Skatehouse. A dedicated crew ensures that everything is in good order. The varied equipment includes diverse rails, tables, boxes (including straight rail, picnic table, skate box, curve box, Funny Rainbow, All Mountain Line, handrail on the staircase). There is also a chill-out area. www.snowparkdamuels.com

damüls-mellau-faschina

active winter culture dining out well-being

Bergbahnen Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2222 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5518 2222-23 www.bergbahnenmellau.com

Tipp: The 9 km long valley descent promises pure skiing enjoyment. The red piste takes you across mountain pastures and through the forest, right in to Mellau.

family tips

information Damüls cable cars T +43 (0)5510 600 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5510 600-14 www.seilbahnendamuels.at

après ski Damüls: s’Scharfe Eck, s’Damülser Après Ski, Alpenkluft, Schwartenstadl, Kiosk Uga Mellau: s’Bärle, Bärenhöhle, Metzgerstüble, Wein-Stadl, Tennisstüble, Après Ski Sandro

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pistes Lengths of the slopes: 105 km of which: 26 km are blue pistes 48 km are red pistes 10 km are black pistes 21 km of ski trails

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 41.00 Child: € 22.50

ski & freedom

lifts and cable cars 2 cable cars 13 chair lifts 4 ski tows 4 practice lifts 1 rope tow 6 moving walkways

ski rental • Madlener Sport, Damüls T +43 (0)5510 391 www.sport-madlener.at • manis rent sport center, Damüls T +43 (0)699 12109630 www.manis-center.at • Sport Broger, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2240 www.bergbahnenmellau.com • Sport Natter, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2262 www.sportnatter.com

ski & board

In Mellau, two kindergarten teachers look after children from 1 year between 9 a.m. and 12.15 p.m. and between 1 and 4 p.m., Monday to Friday. Supervision is free of charge. All-day supervision on Saturday and Sunday costs € 7.50, half-day supervision costs € 5.00 per child.

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

land & lives

All the best for kids Damüls and Mellau both offer various skiing courses for children as well as entertaining programmes for the youngest guests. In Damüls, children up to 12 can take small snowmobiles through Bunny’s snowmobile course. One lap costs € 1.00.

dam端ls-mellau-faschina

21 dam端ls-mellau-faschina

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warth-schröcken

View of Warth

The alpine Walser villages of Warth and Schröcken with their skiing area located at between 1,500 and 2,050 m above sea level are assured of snow. In November 2008, Daily Mail Ski & Snowboard crowned the skiing area Europe’s No. 1 spot for its amount of snow. On average, over 10 metres of new snow fall here per year. Thanks to the many northern slopes, skiing is possible well into the spring.

Bregenzerwald Tourismus and Warth-Schröcken Tourismus offer package deals for variation skiers and ski tourers wishing to undertake safe, guided tours. This includes information about the right equipment, training in risk management and in the correct conduct away from the secured pistes and, naturally, extensive skiing training on the open terrain.

Skiing off piste Warth-Schröcken is also famous for its many off-piste skiing options. Numerous skiing tours and variation tours start in Warth-Schröcken, for example. SAAC avalanche and safety camps are offered to skiers and snowboarders on certain dates. www.saac.at

Salober Snow Park Salober Snow Park with its numerous obstacles, Easy Park for children and beginners, Main Park and unique Natural Park is located on the route covered by the Sonnencruiser fourseater chair lift. www.saloberpark.at Racing fever There are several options for groups and individuals alike to test their skiing speed. The Sonnencruiser has a 650-metre long, permanently prepared giant slalom racetrack with high-tech time-keeping. Next to the Kuchl lift is the cordoned-off, secured high-speed course for everyone.

warth-schröcken

active winter culture dining out well-being

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

Tip: The skiing tour trial offer includes four nights’ accommodation and three beginners’ skiing tours accompanied by mountain and skiing guides. From € 574.00 in a ***hotel in Warth. Can be booked at Bregenzerwald Tourismus.

family tips

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

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

xc skiing

pistes Length of the slopes: 66 km, of which: 30 km are blue pistes 17 km are red pistes 9 km are black pistes 10 km of ski trails

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 38.80 Child: € 20.50

ski & freedom

lifts and cable cars 11 chair lifts 4 ski tows

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

ski & board

Playtime in the snow Kids have fun learning to ski in Pauli’s kids’ world next to the Kitzeliftle. They glide past fairytale figures and take the magic carpet to the top. A children’s skiing competition is held every Friday, f ollowed by a presentation ceremony. The fairyland next to the Salober v alley station, with ski jump, obstacle course, practice lifts and magic carpet are perfect for our youngest skiers.

ski school & children’s ski school • Snow sports school Schröcken-Hochkrumbach T +43 (0)5583 400-45 www.ski-schroecken.at • Ski and snowboard school Warth T +43 (0)5583 3443 www.skischule-warth.at

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This is just the job for those wishing to attain their best speeds and test their limits. The best time to date is 94 km/h! Incidentally, ideal racing tracks for training and racing events are also to be found next to the Wartherhorn and the Salober lifts. Please contact the cable car information office for details.

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warth-schroecken.at

dining out

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alberschwende

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

Tip: This is the ideal skiing area for beginners and families with small children. Also interesting: • Toboggan run at both the chair lift and at the platter lift • Night-time skiing on the Tannerberg, Mon – Fri 7.30 to 10 p.m. • 4 January 2010 Kids’ festival at the Zipfel lift – fun and games in the snow for the whole family

ski school & children’s ski school Skiing and snowboarding courses Alberschwende T +43 (0)664 5835367 www.alberschwende.at ski rental Sport Spettel, Alberschwende T +43 (0)5579 4241 www.spettel.at day ticket (high season) Adult: € 23.50 Child: € 12.50

bödele-schwarzenberg

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après ski s‘Garuda pub, Meierei

dining out well-being

Tip: Hochälpele lift station NEW: The lift station on Bödele straße was rebuilt in 2009, and now comprises a skiing shop and modern restaurant with a selfservice area and an area offering waiter service. The restaurant stands out thanks to its familyfriendly prices.

culture

ski school & children’s ski school • Ski school Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)664 2214075 www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at • Ski school Bödele T +43 (0)5512 3679 www.skischule-boedele.at

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 26.70 Child: € 14.70

active winter

information Schwarzenberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 3570 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5572 7321 www.boedele.info

family tips

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

ski rental • Bergsport Fink, Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2918 www.bergfink.at • Berghof Fetz, Bödele Passhöhe T +43 (0)5572 77400-14 www.berghoffetz.at • Ski rental Hochälpelelift at the valley station T +43 (0)5572 7290-35

xc skiing

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

egg-schetteregg

lifts and cable cars 1 chair lift 5 ski tows pistes Lengths of the slopes: 10 km of which: 5 km are blue pistes 5 km are red pistes information Egger lift company T +43 (0)5512 4750 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5512 4750-13 www.schetteregg.at

ski school & children’s ski school Ski school Schetteregg T +43 (0)5512 4750-20 or T +43 (0)650 4266737 www.schi-schule.at ski rental Sport Waldner T +43 (0)5512 4750-21 www.sportwaldner.at day ticket (high season) Adult: € 26.50 Child: € 14.00 après ski Jokler inn

Tip: Kids’ land with moving walkway, ski carousel and super vision. Ideal for families with small children.

hochhäderich hittisau-riefensberg

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day ticket (high season) Adult: € 22.50 Child: € 16.00

dining out

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

culture

après ski Umbrella bar at the valley station

active winter

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

family tips

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

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

xc skiing

lifts and cable cars 1 chair lift 4 ski tows

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Tip: Ideal for families with small children. Snow fun for the whole family. Child-safe quad cable car.

niedere andelsbuch-bezau

lifts and cable cars 2 cable cars 2 chair lifts 4 ski tows 1 practice lift pistes Lengths of the slopes: 15 km of which: 5 km are blue pistes 9 km are red pistes 1 km are black pistes information Andelsbuch cable cars T +43 (0)5512 2540 Snow hotline: T + 43 (0)5512 2540 www.bergbahnen-andelsbuch.at Bezau cable cars T +43 (0)5514 2254 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5514 2254 www.bergbahnen-bezau.at Tip: Small yet exquisite skiing area, ideal for families with small children. When fresh snow is on the ground, it is an area of deep powder snow worth exploring, offering numerous variants.

ski school & children’s ski school Ski school Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5512 2482 www.schneeprofi.at ski rental • Sport Dorner, Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5512 2482 www.schneeprofi.at • Bergsport Leitner, Bezau T +43 (0)5514 31441 www.alpinsports.com day ticket (high season) Adult: € 26.80 Child: € 15.50 après ski E-Werk, Mooser Stüble

hochlitten riefensberg

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

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

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 21.50 Child: € 14.50

family tips

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 4.5 km of which: 4.5 km are blue pistes

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

xc skiing

lifts and cable cars 4 ski tows

culture dining out well-being

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

ski! projekt

Skiing course inspired by dance

The Ski! project offers special skiing courses: inspired by contemporary dance, participants learn an energysaving skiing technique which is kind on the joints, making swings even easier. The special features of these skiing courses are the routine and the method applied. The skiing days commence in the exercise studio, right next to the piste. There, you try out that which you will then be needing on the piste – such as good holding, balance, agility and the sequence of movements you need for carving or skiing in deep powder snow. You then practice what you have learned on the piste on the open terrain. Exercises from integral forms of kinesiology and relaxation techniques such as

Please note: The courses are held on specified dates. Booking is essential. You can only start on the first day of the course. An individual programme offers you details.

body-mind centering, release technique and the Feldenkrais method aid physical perception and the coordination of movements. The day’s skiing finishes off with relaxation exercises to ensure that your muscles are fit for the next day. The advantage of this method: learning is fast, fun and really longlasting. Skiing courses are offered for all levels of ability, including for skiers who haven’t skied for a while and – accompanied by physio therapists – for skiers with injuries or physical weaknesses. information Au-Schoppernau Tourismus T +43(0)5515 2288 www.skiprojekt.at

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

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map of the area

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11 12

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

Routes for variation skiing 11: Klemm via Salober 12: Bockbachtaltour 13: Around Hohen Ifen 14: Hochblanken Recommended reading: „Skitourenführer Bregenzerwald inkl. Großes Walsertal und Lechquellengebirge“ by A. Kempf/ R. Kempf published by Panico Alpinverlag (in German only)

interesting information

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Annalperjoch ascent

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

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vorarlberg avalanche warning service • www.vorarlberg.at/lawine • T + 43 (0)5522 1588

family tips culture dining out well-being

Respect your boundaries However, anyone out and about enjoying the countryside needs to keep in mind that it is also a very sensitive habitat for plants and animals which is worth protecting. Please don’t take any short-cuts through forest paths, since they are often used by wild game as a refuge. Moreover, the edges of skis and snowboards can easily damage the young forest. Observe the no-go hunting areas and, if necessary, choose a different tour destination. It is with this in mind that we also appeal to you to respect preservation and conservation areas and to observe any restrictions.

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Safety tips for off-piste skiing Please note that you are skiing at your own risk! This brochure only contains suggested routes. • Off-piste skiing is fun when you master the technique. The Bregenzerwald ski schools offer courses to this end. • It is essential to carefully plan a skiing tour. Base your planning on maps, and make sure you listen to the avalanche warning service and the weather report. • The correct equipment and clothing are essential safety factors. • Anyone skiing off piste needs avalanche equipment (avalanche search equipment, probe, avalanche shovel, First Aid kit) and also needs to know how to use such equipment! • Never set off too late. In winter, it starts getting dark around 4.30 p.m. • Never set off if it is snowing/foggy. • The skiing and mountain guides are familiar with the place and terrain and ensure that you safely reach your destination – and back home.

skiing tours The Bregenzerwald is famous for its wide range of enjoyable skiing tours, comprising the very gentle through to the more arduous. Following an ascent taking 2 to 5 hours on crosscountry skis and skins, swing down the magnificent slopes off the prepared pistes and down into the v alley. You can rent the appropriate equipment such as skis and avalanche search equipment from the local ski rental shops. At the following pages we present 10 recommended tours. We recommend that you only embark on these tours in the company of the ski schools’ mountain and skiing guides, or that you reserve one of our package deals. This way, you’ll safely reach the loveliest places, and receive valuable tips on the way. Package deals on offer Take your pick from our selection of package deals for ski tourers. Package deals for beginners and advanced ski tourers alike are presented on www.bregenzerwald.at, which is also the address for making reservations.

Skiing tour events: Hahnenköpfle race Date: end of February/ start of March www.fcbizau.at Diedams Extreme Date: Saturday, 10 April 2010 (expected) www.diedamsextrem.at

Skiing tours for beginners 1: brendler lug (1,767 m) The gentle, classic skiing tour close to Au, with north-facing slopes and glades is most fun in the powder snow/new snow. Difference in altitude: 950 m Starting point: car park of Au’s village hall 2: portlahorn (2,010 m) The straightforward panorama tour across the Damüls skiing area is extremely popular. Difference in altitude: 400 m Starting point: Jägerstüble inn on the road between Oberdamüls and Furkajoch 3: hirschberg (1,500 m) This tour takes you through fantastic skiing terrain in an area formerly home to pistes. Difference in altitude: 700 m Starting point: valley station of the Hirschberg cable car 4: hochälpelekopf (1,464 m) This area is recommended particularly for beginners or those wishing to enjoy a short afternoon tour. Difference in altitude: 450 m Starting point: Gmeind, part of the village of Schwarzenberg 5: feuerstätterkopf (1,645 m) This lovely, popular tour takes you across gentle ski slopes, without any flat spots. Difference in altitude: 650 m Starting point: from Sibratsgfäll, Alpenrose inn

skiing tours

active winter culture dining out

information Au-Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2288 www.skiprojekt.at

family tips well-being

10: hochkünzelspitze (2,397 m) The Hochkünzelspite offers the experienced ski tourer magnificent runs in an alpine setting. Difference in altitude: 1,300 m Starting point: Schröcken, Landsteg bus stop, approx. 2 km to Bad Hopfreben

xc skiing

9: winterstaude (1,877 m) It is close to Egg that the most-used route is located: despite its steep grassy slopes, it is used astoundingly frequently. Difference in altitude: 800 m Starting point: Egg-Schetteregg, lift car park

ski & freedom

8: kanisfluh (2,044 m) Dominating the entire Bregenzerwald, the mighty Kanisfluh – with its steep north side sloping over 1,200 m – takes you by surprise with an outstandingly lovely skiing tour on its south side. Difference in altitude: 1,250 m Starting point: from Au, in the direction of Damüls, across the Argenbach bridge (car park)

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7: üntschenspitze (2,135 m) This tour, which covers lovely slopes to the south west and the north east, is hidden away on Schoppernau’s impressive very own mountain. Difference in altitude: 1,150 m Starting point: Schoppernau, Bad Hopfreben inn

Ski! project tours Skiing in the deep powder snow and going on skiing tours are fascinating activities. However, problems frequently come from a lack of regard for safe skiing, skiing which doesn’t conserve one’s own energy or simply a lack of self-confidence. The Ski! project is tailor-made for such problems: it is a carefully coordinated course to ensure that the first swings on the open terrain are free of fear and stress and make you want more. Participants in the tried-and-tested Ski! project start their day in the exercise studio. It is in this relaxed atmosphere that we prepare for the special demands required by skiing in the deep powder snow. We then practice what we have learned on the piste. The runs are followed by relaxation exercises and gentle stretching exercises in the studio. Deep powder snow workshops are held for both beginners and advanced skiers. We also organise skiing tour and freeride workshops according to the Feldenkrais method as well as skiing tour workshops for tourers who haven’t toured for a while and for those wishing to return to touring with injuries or physical weaknesses. Cooperation partner is the Au-Schoppernau snow sports school. Please note: The courses are held on specified dates. Booking is essential. You can only start on the first day of the course. An individual programme offers you details.

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Skiing tours for the advanced 6: juppenspitze (2,412 m) This skiing tour has perfectly inclined and sunny slopes at higher altitudes. Difference in altitude: 1,200 m Starting point: at Mohnenfluh hotel in Schröcken

variation skiing Variation skiing in the leisurely, enjoyable form of skiing off piste. Most ascents are taken by lift, and then you ski off piste. Here are four recommended routes. For reasons of safety and orientation, we recommend that you only embark on these tours in the company of the ski schools’ mountain and skiing guides, or that you reserve one of our package deals.

Routes for variation skiers 11: klemm via salober Place: Warth – Schröcken – Lech Starting point: Salober Express Ascent: Auenfeld-Sattel, approx. 20 min. Highest point: Mohnenfluhsattel 2,300 m Destination: Schröcken – Heimboden 1,270 m Difference in altitude: approx. 1,630 m run

Package deals on offer Take your pick from our package deals for variation skiers: further details are available on www.bregenzerwald.at, which is also the address for making reservations.

12: bockbachtaltour Place: Warth – Steeg Starting point: Wartherhorn cable car Ascent: Wartherhornsattel, approx. 30 min., Wöstersattel, approx. 45 min. Highest point: Rüfikopf 2,340 m Destination: Steeg 1,250 m Difference in altitude: approx. 1,800 m run

Safety out and about In cooperation with the initiative “SAAC” (Snow and Avalanche Awareness Camps), the cable cars in Warth-Schröcken offer safety training in the “SAAC Competence Center Warth-Schröcken”. In practical workshops, certified mountain guides sensitise ski tourers and variation skiers about the alpine dangers away from the slopes. On offer are the free Basic Camps (2 days) in which the participants learn proper conduct off the piste. To follow on from this, the “SAACnd Steps” camps lasting several days (3.5 and 5.5 days) take you right into the deep powder snow experience.

13: around hohen ifen Place: Schoppernau – Kleinwalsertal Starting point: Diedamskopf Ascent: approx. 300 m Highest point: 2,060 m Destination: Schönenbach near Bizau Difference in altitude: approx. 2,000 m run

dates, information & booking www.snowworld.at www.saac.at

14: hochblanken Place: Damüls – Mellau Starting point: Uga lift, Hohes Licht Ascent: approx. 30 min. Highest point: 2,068 m Destination: Mellau valley station Difference in altitude: approx. 1,300 m run

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

Cross-country skiing is very popular as an 足alternative to skiing or as a good way of recharging your batteries in the fresh air. Especially when the cross-country ski runs are as well looked-after as they are in the Bregenzerwald.

xc skiing

culture dining out well-being

au-schoppernau

Village cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 50 km of classic cross-country ski runs 12 km of skating runs

Tip: village cross-country ski run length 13.6 km

altitude 850 m preparation Mid-December until Easter

classification easy to difficult difference in altitude 85 m

cross-country skiing courses Au-Schoppernau snow sports school T +43 (0)5515 2133 ski rental • Sport Gorbach, Au T +43 (0)5515 4141-2 • Sport Fuchs, Au T +43 (0)5515 2315 • Sport Matt, Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4120

itinerary Schoppernau tourist information office – Gräsalp – on the causeway to Au – past the camp site – Au-Neudorf – Kreuzgasse – along the Ache, later on the causeway of the Bregenzerache (underpass next to the church bridge) to the Reute cattle pasture – Argenzipfel (cross the road) – continue above Argenzipfel, past the Grunholz lift as far as Wieden – Äuele – above Gräsalp (demanding) – Vorsäß Armengemach mountain pasture – Paradies – Schoppernau tourist information office chances to stop off for a drink/food in Au-Schoppernau

bezau-bizau-reuthe

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Circuit

Tip: the circuit length 12 km

xc skiing

cross-country ski runs 20 km of classic cross-country ski runs 12 km of skating runs altitude 650 m

difference in altitude 50 m itinerary The circuit takes you through all three villages, and can be commenced and terminated at any of the villages.

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characteristic Scenic, charming and varied circuit through the circlet of villages.

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

classification easy to intermediate

family tips

preparation Mid-December until early March

dining out

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

well-being

damüls

Stofel alpine cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 11 km of classic cross-country ski runs 5 km of skating runs

Tip: Stofel alpine cross-country ski run

altitude 1,500 – 1,650 m

length 5 km

preparation Early December until early April

classification intermediate

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

höhenunterschied 80 m

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

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

hittisau

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Border country cross-country ski run

length 43 km

preparation December until early April

classification easy to intermediate

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

difference in altitude 240 m

well-being

tip The entire network of cross-country ski runs in Hittisau-Balderschwang covers 72 km.

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

dining out

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

culture

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

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

active winter

altitude 800 m

family tips

Tip: border country cross-country ski run

xc skiing

cross-country ski runs 32 km of classic cross-country ski runs 15 km of skating runs

mellau-schnepfau

Cross-country ski run in Mellau, Hirschau, Schnepfau

cross-country ski runs 20 km of classic cross-country ski runs 2 km of skating runs

Tip: cross-country ski run in Mellau, Hirschau, Schnepfau

altitude 700 m

length 5 km

preparation December until March

classification easy

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

difference in altitude 40 m

ski rental • Sport Natter, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2262 • Sport Broger, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2240 night-time cross-country skiing

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

riefensberg-hochhäderich

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Hörmoos cross-country ski run

length 8.3 km

preparation December until mid-April

classification difficult

fee for use of cross-country ski run Day ticket € 4.50, with the regional Guest Card € 3.50

difference in altitude 151 m

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

dining out

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

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

culture

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

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

active winter

altitude 1,300 m

family tips

Tip: Hörmoos cross-country ski run

xc skiing

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

well-being

sibratsgfäll

Cross-country ski run between Sibratsgfäll and Schönenbach

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

Tip: cross-country ski run between Sibratsgfäll and Schönenbach

altitude 930 m length 18 km preparation Mid-December until early April fee for use of cross-country ski run Day ticket € 4.50, free for guests of the village cross-country skiing courses Ski school Hittisau-Sibratsgfäll T +43 (0)664 3054015 ski rental Engelbert Dorner T +43 (0)5513 2113

classification intermediate difference in altitude 150 m itinerary Krähenberg ski lift – walk to the base of the cross-country ski run at the Bilgeri snack bar – along the Subersach as far as Vorsäß Schönenbach mountain pasture – return the same route characteristic A route for cross-country skiing enthusiasts, not too technically demanding. Particularly scenic route through the valley of the Subersach. chances to stop off for a drink/food Bilgeri snack bar

sulzberg

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Panorama cross-country ski run

Tip: panorama cross-country ski run

altitude 1,015 m

length 7 km

preparation December until March

classification easy to difficult

cross-country skiing courses Available upon request from Sulzberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5516 2213-10

itinerary Leave Oberdorf – continue in the direction of Hochsträß – circuit (it is possible to turn off on to the Westallgäu network of cross- country ski runs)

active winter

chances to stop off for a drink/food Hochsträßstüble

culture

night-time cross-country skiing

family tips

tip It is possible to cross over the border to the Westallgäu network of crosscountry ski runs.

xc skiing

cross-country ski runs 20 km of classic cross-country ski runs 5 km of skating runs

dining out well-being

warth-schröcken

Falkenkopf cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 16 km of classic cross-country ski runs 2 km of skating runs altitude 1,500 m preparation December until mid-April

Tip: Falkenkopf cross-country ski run length 8 km classification difficult differrence in altitude 100 m

fee for use of cross-country ski run Day ticket € 5.00, free for guests of the village cross-country skiing courses • Ski school Warth T +43 (0)5583 3443 • Ski school Schröcken T +43 (0)5583 40045 ski rental • Sport Schneller, Schröcken T +43 (0)5519 201 • Sport Jug, Warth T +43 (0)5583 39827 dogs permitted

itinerary Salober car park – past the Kalbelesee – Körbersee (there is an additional circuit on the Körbersee) – return characteristic Demanding cross-country ski run, enjoys a sunny location. Enjoyable: the sun terrace of the Hotel Körbersee chances to stop off for a drink/food Hotel Körbersee

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How about a lap around the ice rink? Or a 足lantern-lit ramble at dusk? Visits to the farm and the programme in the Eskimo 足village offer exciting insights into ways of life. 足Adventurers take the Flying Fox cable slide across the valley.

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family tips

culture dining out well-being

kids’ programme

Fun in the ski school

The Bregenzerwald boasts the best conditions for enjoyable family holidays. Friendly hosts in the hotels, guest houses, holiday apartments and on the farms offering holidays ensure the right setting for this. In the ski schools, the youngest guests playfully learn skiing. Those who prefer their winter and snow away from the slopes can take one of the numerous toboggan runs (→ from page 72) or participate in the varied programmes offered by many villages. If the weather proves an obstacle to outdoor activities, there are many indoor swimming pools to try out, such as the swimming pool in the Hotel Quellengarten in Lingenau, the swimming pools in Bregenz and Dornbirn, and the Aquaria family adventure pool in Oberstaufen in the neighbouring Allgäu. (→ page 54).

Tobogganing with children Almost all towns and villages have one or several toboggan runs, many of which are illuminated in the evening. This includes many runs which children can ride alone, or on their parents’ toboggan. Toboggans are available for rent in many towns and villages. The starting points of several toboggan runs can be easily reached by lift. You can find further information on toboggan runs from page 72. Well-supervised in the ski schools The Bregenzerwald’s ski schools are well-known for their child-friendly programmes. You can find further information on selected offers in the chapter Ski and Board (→ from page 11). or example, about the Schwarzenberg ski school and learning to ski with the magic wand (→ page 51), the Au-Schoppernau snow sports school with its adventure programme and Didiland ski school for children (→ page 14) as well as Damüls ski school, which offers snowmobile rides for children (→ page 19).

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Skiing with the magic wand

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information & opening times Alberschwende Tourismus T +43 (0)5579 4233

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Alberschwende artificial ice-skating rink Alberschwende has a floodlit artificial ice-skating rink. Admission fees for adults: € 4.00, for youths and OAPs: € 3.00, for children: € 2.00. Ice skates can be hired here (adults: € 2.50, children: € 1.50).

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information & opening times Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2495

family tips

information Ski school Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)664 2214075 www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at

Au-Schoppernau natural ice-skating area Schoppernau boasts a natural ice-skating area. Depending on the weather, the area is prepared between December and February/ March. Ice skates can be hired right next to the ice-skating area. Ice- skating is free of charge for guests from Au-Schoppernau.

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Learning to ski with the magic wand Learning to ski in four hours, with a guarantee of success? By means of a method developed by the school itself, all children from 3 1/2 years of age can take the practice lifts themselves after four individual lessons (only one hour per day). Should the child not succeed, the ski instruction continues free of charge until it does! Price: € 46.00 per hour

well-being

kids’ programme

Lanterns light up the path

Lantern-lit ramble – Egg-Großdorf Particularly well suited for families: a romantic ramble into the silence of the night. The light of the lanterns, of the moon and the stars, make the outing into a special experience. Guide Marianne relates stories on the way. Place: Egg-Großdorf Meeting point: Falken inn Date: 23 December until the end of March: every Monday at 8 p.m. Length: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge information & registration Egg Tourismus Register by monday, noon. T +43 (0)5515 2426 www.egg.at/tourismus

Lantern-lit ramble – Mellau Winter hiking guide Hans leads participants through the fairytale-like, snow-covered winter landscape at dusk. Hurricane lamps and torches light up the way. Hot drinks await in the Rodlhüsle right next to Dosegg toboggan run. Place: Mellau Meeting point: Tourist information office Mellau Date: 1 January 2010 until 9 April 2010: every Friday at 7 p.m. Length: approx. 1.5 hours Price per person: free of charge information & registration Mellau Tourismus T +43 (0)5518 2203 www.mellau.at

kids’ programme

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information & registration Alpinschule Schröcken T +43 (0)664 2525200 www.alpinschule-schroecken.at

ski & freedom

Warth-Schröcken – in the Eskimo village A varied programme including sleeping in igloos, husky-drawn sleigh rides or kids’ rides in a skidoo. Place: Schröcken Meeting point: Salober valley station of the cable car at the fairyland Date: every Wednesday during the kids’ snow weeks (12 – 19 December 2009, 16 – 23 January 2010, 6 – 20 March 2010) at 4.30 p.m. Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: free for guest children from Warth and Schröcken

information & registration Alpinschule Widderstein Christian Fritz T +43 (0)660 2149207 www.alpinschulewidderstein.com

ski & board

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

Warth-Schröcken – Flying Fox slide On the Flying Fox slide, participants swoosh from Vorarlberg to Tyrol. The area with the 200 m long cable slide and height of 50 m is a spectacular experience. Naturally, appropriate safety equipment is provided (helmet, combination harness, safety loops, pulley). Place: Warth Meeting point: Tourist information office Warth Date: during the winter season, any time upon request Length: approx. 1 hour Price per person: € 12.00 for adults, € 8.00 for children

land & lives

Au-Schoppernau – farm experience Life on the farm has a magical appeal to children: animals large and small, tractors, work on the farm… children are allowed to stroke the animals and watch young farmer Peter feed, care for and milk the animals. Place: Au-Schoppernau Meeting point: Tourist information office Au Date: 29 December until 6 April 2010: every Tuesday at 5.30 p.m. Length: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge

well-being

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

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

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

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dining out well-being

winter hiking

View of the Niedere, close to Andelsbuch

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

notes on safety • Stick to the signposted hiking paths (pink signposts). • Taking short steps and maintaining an even pace going uphill save your strength, and go easy on the joints going downhill. • Slightly bending your upper body forwards when going downhill reduces the danger of slipping. • Take plenty of drinks with you: it is also important to drink even if you are not thirsty. • Ask your hosts about the weather forecast. Fog and bad weather can set in surprisingly quickly. Turn back in good time rather than risking getting into danger. As a winter hiker (or a summer hiker), you hike at your own risk.

Recommended reading: “Vorarlberg Winterwanderungen” by Helmut Tiefenthaler, published by Tyrolia Verlag (in German only)

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Through the open landscape close to Sulzberg

family tips active winter culture

starting point Sulzberg-Schönenbühl, Hotel Linde bus stop culture on the route As the “village on the mountain”, the location of Sulzberg in Vorarlberg gives it a very special quality of its own. The parish church in the Empire style is exceptional. It was built in 1828/29 by Alois Negrelli, the designer of the Suez Canal. characteristic Scenic mountain path on mainly flattened hiking paths chances to stop off for a drink/food Hotel Linde (Schönenbühl), Sulzberg

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Negrelli’s church and endless views – Sulzberg mountain path From Schönenbühl (820 m), a couple of yards down the road a cleared agricultural path leads to the mountain farms in Unterköhler: from there, you take a flattened hiking path to the Oberköhler plot of land at 985 m, then you follow a forest path to the approach road on the sunny side to Sulzberg, which you then follow on past the parish church to Sulzberg village square (1,013 m). Once you arrive at the village square, enjoy the endless views across the Bregenzer wald. On the way back, enjoy the fascinating view across the Rhine valley through to the Swiss mountains.

dining out well-being

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

winter hiking

Out and about on the Hochhäderich

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

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

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

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Around the village of Hittisau

active winter culture dining out well-being

Difference in altitude: up: 110 m/ down: 110 m Total hiking time: approx. 2 hours

family tips

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

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

winter hiking

Tannen close to Alberschwende

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

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

Opening times of Brüggelekopf chair lift: T +43 (0)5579 4323 or 4233

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

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Hochälpele close to Schwarzenberg

family tips active winter culture

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

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On the trail of fresh country air – Bödele-Schwarzenberg From the bus stop on the Bödele (1,140 m), take a short walk along the road to Schwarzenberg where you pick up the winter hiking path. Cross the pistes of the Hochälpele lift, hike through alpine forests to the Hochälpele alp (1,250 m, extensive views across the Bregenzerwald) and continue to Lustenau hut (1,250 m, chance to take a detour to the Bregenz hut). From Lustenau hut, take a scenic path across the Klausberg mountain pasture down into Schwarzenberg (695 m).

dining out well-being

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

winter hiking

Alp landscape, Schetteregg

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

starting point Schetteregg car park culture on the route Eggatsberg and Hammeratsberg are two cooperative mountain pastures. They are collective property, whereas the huts are private property. The cattle are brought here for several weeks each spring and autumn, the milk is processed into butter and cheese in the collective’s own dairy. During the summer, the pastures are mowed. The Falz alps are extensive dairy alps. characteristic Varied circuit through the peaceful mountain pasture and alp area chances to stop off for a drink/food Schetteregg, “Leo’s hut”

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

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Mountain pasture settlement, Schönenbach

active winter culture dining out well-being

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

family tips

starting point Car park at Krähenberg ski lift culture on the route Schönenbach is one of the loveliest, largest mountain pasture settlements in the whole of the Bregenzerwald. It was mentioned for the first time in 1491, comprises over 25 huts and one chapel. Cattle graze on the mountain pasture before and after the alp period. During the summer, the pastures are mowed. In the spring and autumn, the milk is processed into butter and cheese in a collective alpine dairy. characteristic Wild and romantic trail through the Subersach gorge chances to stop off for a drink/food Sibratsgfäll, Bilgeri’s in Krähenberg

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To the loveliest mountain pasture – Sibratsgfäll-Schönenbach If you take the bus, you must first take the road or follow the flattened winter hiking path down to the car park in Krähenberg (approx. 30 minutes). From the Krähenberg car park, the road descends steeply to Bilgeri’s snack bar in Krähenberg. The flattened winter path starts here (keep on the cross-country ski run). Crossing a narrow gorge with impressive views down to the Subersach is a lovely experience. The valley soon reveals itself, and the beautifully located mountain pasture settlement of Schönenbach (1,025 m) is in front of you.

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Below Damüls’ Mittagsspitze and Hochblanken

Out and about in the wild and romantic valley – Ulfern alp (Mellau) Following ascent with the Mellau cable car, the circuit takes you away from the hustle and bustle of the slopes and up to the Ulfern alp area at an altitude of 1,400 m and which has a wild and romantic valley head beneath Damüls’ Mittagsspitze (2,095 m) and Hochblanken. The shady, steep north faces are covered with a thick layer of ice and icicles, offering an impressive spectacle of nature. The hiking path itself is well prepared, and there are only a little difference in altitude to overcome.

starting point Centre of Mellau characteristic High-altitude circuit in a remote mountain valley. Due to the position of the sun, it is recommended going on the hike from mid-February. chances to stop off for a drink/food Mountain station (Roßstelle alp inn, Simma restaurant)

Operating times of Mellau cable cars T +43 (0)5518 2222-0

Difference in altitude: up: 50 m/ down: 50 m Total hiking time: approx. 1.5 hours

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

culture dining out well-being

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

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Please contact the tourist information office in Au-Schoppernau for the opening times of the Bergkristall hut and the conditions for sledging. T +43 (0)5515 2288

family tips

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

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Walk up, toboggan down – Bergkristall hut in Au From Au (800 m), a perfectly prepared path takes you along the northern edge of the Lug, mainly through a forest, up into the Dürrenbachtal to the idyllically located Boden mountain pasture. This is also the location of the Bergkristall hut located at an altitude of over 1,200 m. This tranquil, beautiful mountain valley is surrounded by the impressive, steeply rising rock massifs of the Zitterklapfenstock (2,403 m). You descend the same way. When the conditions are right, it is a good idea to take along a sledge for the descent into the valley.

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Oberdamüls

On ancient Walser trails – the Damüls alpine circuit From Damüls (1,425 m), you follow the path towards Oberdamüls and continue on the fully prepared valley path next to the cross-country ski run as far as the Unterdamüls alp (1,486 m). From there, a steep ascent to the Jägerstüble (1,614 m) awaits. From here, a mountain path takes you up to an altitude of approx. 1,700 m (views as far as the Rätikon), past the Oberdamüls alp (1,667 m) and to Oberdamüls. From Hotel Alpenstern, you walk along the road back to where you started.

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

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

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Kalbelesee in Schröcken

family tips

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

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

culture dining out well-being

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

snow-shoe hikes

Snow-shoe hiking on the Bödele

Au-Schoppernau – Diedamskopf tour, tobogganing into the valley The cable car takes you to the mountain station. From here, you take a mountain ridge to the Diedamssattel and take a gentle ramble through the Haldental with a short ascent to the Neuhornbachjoch. The adventurous can rush down to the Neuhornbachhaus lying on the “Airboard” – a piece of inflatable winter sports equipment. Back in the valley, participants race down the longest natural toboggan run in the Bregenzerwald (5.5 km). Place: Au-Schoppernau Diedamskopf Meeting point: Au-Schoppernau snow sports school, next to the valley station of the cable car Date: 23 December until 7 April 2010: every Wednesday at 9.30 a.m. Length: approx. 6 hours incl. breaks Price per person: approx. € 75.00 (incl. cable car ticket, snow shoes and toboggan), depending on the number of participants. Minimum number of participants: 4 people information & registration Au-Schoppernau snow sports school T +43 (0)5515 2133 www.au-schoppernau.at

Egg-Schetteregg – through the mountain pasture landscape The guided hike commences in Schetteregg, which lies in a tranquil side valley. The hike takes you to two mountain pasture settlements. Farmers and their cattle spend the spring and the autumn in the simple wooden huts. The milk is processed into butter and cheese in a collective alpine dairy. Along the way, you are rewarded over and over with lovely views of the Bregenzerwald. Place: Egg-Schetteregg. Take the no. 32 ski bus from Egg. Meeting point: Waldner sports rental Date: 23 December until the end of March: every Wednesday at 1 p.m. Register by Tuesday at 5 p.m. Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 8.00 (including snow shoe rental) information & registration Egg Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2426 www.egg.at/tourismus

snow-shoe hikes

xc skiing family tips active winter culture well-being

Recommended reading: “Schneeschuhwandern in Vorarlberg” by C. Butscher/ U. Längle/M. Jochum/ P. Hickersperger This book outlines the 38 loveliest tours to take in Vorarlberg, and is published by Kompass Verlag (in German only)

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information & registration Bezau Tourismus T +43 (0)5514 2295 www.bezau.at

information & registration Mellau ski and snowboard school T +43 (0)5518 2222-24 www.skischule-mellau.at

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Bezau – snow-shoe hiking with Pius In his free time, Pius Feuerstein makes alphorns, and enjoys g etting out and about in his capacity as hiking guide. His tour through Bezau, Bizau and Mellau takes participants to particularly lovely spots. Place: Bezau Meeting point: fountain in Bezau village square Date: Tuesday, 10.30 a.m. and Thursday, 1 p.m. Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 9.00 excluding equipment. Only one participant is needed to ensure that the tour takes place. Register by 9 a.m. in the tourist information office.

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information & registration Jakob Faißt, hiking guide T +43 (0)664 9141095 or T +43 (0)5513 825461

Mellau – romance and relaxation The snow-shoe hike takes you from the mountain station of Mellau cable cars to an altitude of 1,400 m to the Kanis alp at an altitude of 1,463 m. Kanis alp is situated in an unspoilt, idyllic mountain valley surrounded by mountains, in a snow-covered landscape. The gentle, romantic tour is also suitable for beginners. Place: Mellau Meeting point: 1 p.m. at the office of Mellau ski school Date: 24 December 2009 until 5 April 2010; daily, upon request Length: approx. 2 hours Price per person: € 30.00, including equipment, excluding return trip. Minimum number of participants is 3, otherwise the tour is subject to a surcharge.

land & lives

Hittisau – taster snow-shoe tour on the Hochhäderich The simple, easy snow-shoe tour is also suitable for the less than fit and for children. Hiking guide Jakob introduces his charges to the features of walking in snow shoes. Place: Alpenarena Hochhäderich Meeting point: Jakob’s ski shop on the Hochhäderich Date: 22 December 2009 until 5 April 2010: every Tuesday at 4.45 p.m. Length: ca. 2 Stunden Price per person: € 15.00 (including snow shoe rental)

horse and carriage rides

Out and about in Au-Schoppernau, with a view of the Kanisfluh

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

Hittisau Tourist information office, T +43 (0)5513 6209-50

Andelsbuch Metzler Elmar, T +43 (0)5512 4128

Lingenau Wendelin Stöckler, T +43 (0)664 6298827

Au-Schoppernau Mathias Erath, T +43 (0)5515 2298 Franz-Josef Dünser, T +43 (0)5515 2295 Rusch Jakob, T +43 (0)5515 2532 Jakob Lingg, T +43 (0)5515 2928

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

Mellau Raimund Dietrich, T +43 (0)5518 2164 Georg Simma, T +43 (0)5518 2768

Bezau Christoph Moosbrugger, T +43 (0)5514 2901

Riefensberg Steinhauser family, T +43 (0)5513 8303 or +43 (0)664 4122915

Bizau Josef Moosmann, T +43 (0)5514 2515

Schwarzenberg Josef Schneider, T +43 (0)5512 4382

Damüls Alfons Bischof, T +43 (0)664 3382257

Sibratsgfäll Martin Bereuter, T +43 (0)5513 2643

Egg-Schetteregg Fam. Schneider, T +43 (0)664 3744764

Sulzberg Friesenhof Blank, T +43 (0)664 4411380

dog sleigh tours

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Dog sleigh tours in Warth-Schröcken

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Information: Due to the great demand, only guests holding a valid Guest Card from WarthSchröcken and Au-Schoppernau can participate in both programmes.

active winter

information & registration Husky & Co, Marc Van Landeghem T +43 (0)664 2407422 www.bauern-stube.at

family tips

Huskyworkshop Learn how to handle huskies with Marc, the musher, so that you can ride the lovely winter landscape with your own husky-pulled sleigh. Length: approx. 2 hours Meeting point: Salober car park No. of participants: 1 or 2 people Dogs: 2 – 3 dogs per person Prerequisite: sporting ability and a great love of dogs Price: € 110.00 for 2 people

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Husky trail The meeting point is the Hochtann berg pass, where participants are given a training session. Then you proceed to Hotel Körbersee across snowy hills. This tour, with its many uphill and downhill parts, is a great adventure for the dogs and the budding mushers. As a reward, coffee and cake await in Hotel Körbersee, before returning to the starting point. Length: approx. 4 hours Meeting point: Salober car park No. of participants: 1 or 2 people Dogs: 2 – 3 dogs per person Prerequisite: sporting ability and a great love of dogs Price: € 210.00 for 2 people, including coffee and cake

tobogganing

Tobogganing - enjoyment for everybody

Alberschwende ** Brüggelekopf (accessible by chair lift) Length: 4 km Toboggan rental: Brüggelekopf chair lift T +43 (0)5579 4323 www.lift.alberschwende.net Au-Schoppernau * Kids’ happy toboggan run at Hotel-Gasthof Post in Au With moving walkway Happy toboggan rental: Tourist information office in Au T +43 (0)5515 2288 * Grunholz, Au Length: 650 m On special toboggans which can be rented at the valley station, you take the ski tow up the mountain. Tobogganing in the evening: Wednesday and Friday, 7 to 10 p.m. Toboggan rental at the Grunholz lift. * Schrannenbach, Schoppernau Length: 300 m * Lebernau pasture, Au Length: 500 m * Lisse, Au Length: 750 m

** Hinterargenzipfel, Au Length: 870 m ** Godlachen, Au Length: 2.2 km *** Neuhornbach, Schoppernau Length: 5.5 km Toboggan rental: • Sport Fuchs, Au T +43 (0)5515 2315 www.sportfuchs.com • Sport Gorbach, Au T +43 (0)5515 4141-1 www.gorbach.at • Sport Matt, Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4120 www.matt.at Bezau * Gschwend Illuminated toboggan run daily until 11 p.m. Length: 1.7 km Toboggan rental: Pius Feuerstein T +43 (0)664 1344358 ** Baumgarten-Sonderdach (ascent by cable car) Length: 3 km Toboggan rental: Bezau cable cars T +43 (0)5514 2254

tobogganing

active winter culture

Warth ** „von der Höhi“ Illuminated toboggan run daily until 10 p.m. 2x a week toboggan party, ascent by tractor, hot mulled wine and alcohol-free punch for the kids. Toboggans are provided. Start: 8 p.m. Larger groups are requested to book. Length: 700 m Toboggan rental Sport-Knitel +43 (0)5583 3612

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Sulzberg * village lift Length: 150 m *** Sulzberg-Stein Length: 950 m

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Sibratsgfäll ** Krähenberg Illuminated toboggan run daily 5.30 until 10 p.m. Length: 800 m Toboggan rental: Hubert Nussbaumer T +43 (0)664 5251866

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Hittisau-Riefensberg * Hochhäderich Length: 300 m Toboggan rental: Jakob’s ski shop T +43 (0)5513 8254-61 www.alpenarena.com

Schwarzenberg * Angelika-Höhe Length: 130 m and 140 m Toboggan rental: Bergsport Fink, Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2918 www.bergfink.at

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Damüls *** Uga (ascent by the Uga Express) Illuminated toboggan run, Wednesday and Friday 7.30 to 9.30 p.m. Ascents are not covered by the 3-valley pass. Length: 3.5 km Toboggan rental: Sport Madlener T +43 (0)5510 391 www.sport-madlener.at

Mellau * Dosegg Illuminated toboggan run, 3x per week Length: 800 m Toboggan rental: Sport Natter T +43 (0)5518 2262 www.sportnatter.com

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Bizau * Escha Length: 1.2 km Toboggan rental: Sport Bertsch T +43 (0)5514 4127

dining out well-being

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

adventure

View from the Diedamskopf towards Damüls

Paragliding The Bregenzerwald flying area (Niedere close to Bezau-Andelsbuch and Diedamskopf close to Au- Schoppernau) is well-known for its laminar upwind and its pleasant thermal conditions. The special thing about it is that an increasing number of flight/training areas can be offered within 10 km with each (wind) direction. The proximity and the easy accessibility of both flying areas ensure that training is both flexible and fast. On the Diedamskopf, you can take off from the southerly, south-easterly and easterly directions across steep slopes. From the approx. 10° in the pull-up area, the take-off area continually passes into a steep slope. Two take-off ramps are available for hang-gliders. Also on offer: tandem flights. information & lessons Bregenzerwald flying school Jodok Moosbrugger T +43 (0)5514 3177 www.gleitschirmschule.at

Ice-climbing Widderstein Alpine School offers courses for ice climbers. The courses are held from a minimum of 3 participants, and last between 4 and 6 hours per day. Rental equipment and supervision by a mountain guide are also included. “Ice climbing: beginners” is held between 16 and 18 January 2010 and costs € 240.00 per person. “Ice climbing: advanced” is held between 19 and 21 January 2010 and costs € 260.00 per person. information Alpinschule Widderstein & Outdoorpoint-Warth Christian and Gebhard Fritz T +43 (0)660 2149207 www.alpinschulewidderstein.com

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

active winter

culture

dining out well-being

everyday culture

The cheese-makers cast a critical eye

Anyone who allows himself the pleasure of watching cheese being made here – such as in Schoppernau alpine dairy – can understand how close the ties are between rural activities and everyday culture. Alpine dairy The introduction of hard cheese making in the middle of the 18th century not only opened up new sources of income, it also changed the farmers. Initial failures are evidence of how much sweat and tears went into complying with the hygiene standards, into working out the complex production stages and the precise time standards. The alpine dairyman (hard cheese and lace → page 9) became a highly-reputable skilled worker with extensive expertise whose circumstances demanded him to be what we these days call somewhat interdisciplinary. For Franz Michael Felder, the poet from Schoppernau, he is “a jack-of-alltrades: shoe mender, vet, launderer, carpenter, tailor, philosopher and much more”. A century earlier, the valley community had already proven that its people knew how to help

themselves in the face of adversity: in the form of the Au Guild (→ page 82), a new branch of industry was created from nothing: architecture and the building trade. What: from nothing? Even though the background to this movement is unknown, one thing is for sure: it was born from necessity, and the resulting talent shown by the farmers of helping themselves. And the architects’ contribution? Artistic talent (→ page 78) practiced for centuries. Farmers’ palace and parlour However, none of the large buildings actually stand in the Bregenzerwald itself: they are constructed “outside”: “inside” keeps house, tries to increase affluence and displays it with a reserved pride. When, in the early 19th century, agriculture started to prosper – especially in the Vorder- and Mittelwald – new farmhouses were built which were soon known as farmers’ palaces and which, according to the relevant literature, were amongst the most magnificent in the whole of the alpine region. The log cabin was

everyday culture

ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter culture dining out

The magic becomes even more physical when it comes to cooking and eating. Whatever is produced by the soil and the garden is cultivated: the cheese from the largest silage-free dairy region, for example, is unique. And you can taste the meaning of refinement when you compare local cheese “knöpfle” with cheese “spätzle” from other regions. It is hardly surprising then that the Bregenzerwald has, by far, the most “chef’s hats” (culinary distinction) of all regions far and wide. Or that here, where one in three is employed as a craftsman, this refined everyday culture is a fixed source of income.

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

As a rule, these skills are practiced at home, with the individual members committed to the family. One is surrounded by one’s own craftsmanship. This is also true of the clothing. The local costume stands out amongst all those from the alpine region: ornate, strict, proud – the “Juppe” is the first thing you notice. A four metre-long black piece of cloth is folded into numerous pleats, smoothed in several stages – this is the skirt. It is decorated only with one bright blue band. Then there are the half a dozen different pieces of headgear. The artistically embroidered blouse, which is a good indicator of social standing, is not the end of the magic. Inspired by fashion worn by 18th century courtiers in Spain, the costume still demands poise of the wearer today.

land & lives

shingled, windows and doors were finely decorated in line with the Biedermeier period: more than anything else, however, people treated themselves to a panelled parlour, nice and bright thanks to large windows, cosy thanks to the tiled stove and special pieces of furniture. The sofa was one such piece: around the middle of the century, manufacture of this piece exploded, only to dwindle in a few decades: usually manufactured in the evening at home by “laymen”, today they are popular collector’s items (werkraum → page 80). The stoves, too, were special: the artistic tiles came mainly from local potters whose trade flourished during this century.

well-being

architecture

Modernism and tradition

If a ranking of the most significant architectural regions in the world were to be drawn up today, Vorarlberg would, without a doubt, be in the top ten. However, this doesn’t just mean the significance of the individual constructions, but also their number and density. This phenomenon is comparatively new. Whilst it is true that V orarlberg’s baroque master builders are a fixed feature in specialist literature (Au Guild → page 82), whenever the Vorarlberg school of architecture or architects are mentioned, they mean the generation born since 1950 which has been influencing the architecture here for about the past 30 years. Without counting the handful of pioneers that preceded them, this amounts to over 60 people: considering the 370,000 inhabitants, this is an amazing number. Such a ratio is only possible in a region where architecture is appreciated, where one in four houses is designed by architects.

From construction artists to architects However, this is the result, rather than the explanation, of a development. “Construction artists” is what the players called themselves at the start since, in the face of a vehement conflict with the “establishment” of the building industry and chamber, the title “architect” was refused. According to one of the pioneers, public appearances, the joining of forces and dialogue were important right from the start. The ideal founded in terms of social policy – social, affordable, sustainable, regional – promoted the solidarity of a generation that was searching for new life forms and other ways of cultural expression, that was resisting the sell-out of their land, and that found expression in building. The new type of architecture started off in residential buildings – by way of examining already existing buildings or as a new structure, often for residential groups – and grew into a clear sign of the cultural restoration which soon extended to the economic elite and the public sector. However, as important as this environment was, there are always people who take

architecture

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Tip: Buildings worth visiting museums Angelika Kauffmann Museum, Schwarzenberg; Women’s Museum, Hittisau; Juppenwerkstatt, Riefensberg; Franz Michel Felder Museum, Schoppernau. inns and hotels Adler, Schwarzenberg; Krone, Hittisau; Gams, Bezau; Post, Bezau; Sonne and Metzgerstüble, Mellau; Steffisalp, Warth. schools & kindergarten Doren, Egg, Warth. commercial buildings Holzbau Kaufmann, Reuthe; Molke Metzler, Egg; Wood workshop Faißt, Hittisau; Cheese cellar, Lingenau. municipal buildings Village halls in Sulzberg, Langenegg, Andelsbuch, Bizau.

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Worth a visit It is hard to list remarkable buildings, since many of them are private residential buildings which are not accessible. However, a walk through Hittisau or Schwarzenberg for example, can satisfy your curiosity. The village of Bizau is particularly suitable for such a walk: it boasts residential buildings from all epochs, estates, buildings for industrial, educational and local authority purposes, as well as inns: together, they form an ensemble which was awarded the ArGeAlp prize.

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Landscape and wooden buildings Located somewhat off the beaten track, the Bregenzerwald was part of this development, although in a way of its own. In contrast to the densely populated, industrial and commercial Rhine Valley with its mainly suburban structure, landscape, nature and rural craftsmanship culture is of great importance in the B regenzerwald. Outside of the Bregenzerwald, groups of houses and farms dominate, whereas inside the Bregenzerwald it is the single-ridge house (farmers’ palace and parlour → page 76); outside of the Bregenzerwald it is households which commission the building, whereas inside the Bregenzerwald it is the young craftsmen. The Bregenzerwälder have a greater affinity for craftsmanship in general (werkraum → page 80): for example, it is in the carpentry trade that the Kaufmann family of architects has its roots. While, following the initial years, the formal experiment is in demand outside, the tendency towards stringency and sobriety increases inside. Rural pragmatism and the discipline of construction with timber, which is now state-ofthe-art, appears to be more effective here. Recently, examining the old buildings is also gaining in importance. Above all, however, the new buildings fit in with the surrounding landscape with regard to material, size and proportion. Is it this attitude that shies at the eccentric and that searches for the typical rather than the unique which guarantees this way of building a wide basis? In any

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

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

bregenzerwald werkraum

werkraum depot in Schwarzenberg

A festival week with an exhibition of artistic innovations, architectural delights, culinary offers, international guests – for the past decade, life in the Bregenzerwald has been richer by a major attraction. Every three years, the werkraum invites people to “Handwerk + Form”. All this arises voluntarily: a provisional building is provided free of charge, the efforts put in by the countless team members clearly increase, to culminate in the presentation of prizes (the actual reason behind the whole thing) at a major party lasting a week and featuring an exhibition. Each year the event attracts more and more visitors from near and far.

Game and competition This is how the werkraum displays its mission: as part of a community, by means of teamwork, it accomplishes that which far extends beyond the strengths of its individual members. And it encourages competition, challenges entrants to perform their very best. Objects created in the members’ workshops according to their own design or in conjunction with external designers are judged. The close relationship with the architects (→ page 78) is allowed to develop. Furniture, clothing, components – they must have a practical use, be proof of the highest level of craftsmanship and exemplary design. Since its establishment in 1999, the competition has been the core of the registered society. Almost 100 firms are members, mainly involved in wood processing, such as joiners and carpenters, but there is also a handful of locksmiths, stonemasons, bricklayers, fitters, electricians, painters, upholsterers, textile processors and cobblers through to the exotic such as coppers and wood carvers. Most of the firms have up to around

bregenzerwald werkraum

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Yet that is not all: the werkraum has always been involved at a local level, such as in training, in schools, in specific construction projects, in dealing with historical building stock. It is a contribution towards the structural change of the region, and an example of social competence. Despite its international reputation, over 75% of all objects are still sold to clients in Vorarlberg, most of whom even live in the valley. And so these trades make an important contribution towards the prosperity of the valley community.

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werkraum depot The werkraum depot is the communal exhibition platform for furniture and objects from the Bregenzerwald. On an area covering 300 m², the werkraum members exhibit Bregenzerwald furniture and objects with a practical, daily use: tables, chairs, shoes, swings, sofas, chests, clogs and much more. opening times Thu 5 – 7.30 p.m. information & booking of guided tours werkraum office T +43 (0)5512 26386 www.werkraum.at

Public relations work, advertising, marketing – the werkraum provides all those advantages which industry has over trade. Yet without a huge budget: instead, it has capital typical to craftsmen – brains and ability, a network, links. And so an interested public in Vienna, Munich and Paris have seen exhibitions put on by the werkraum, for example. The werkraum is also a regular subject in the specialist press, and has been described as the “landscape of knowledge”.

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Qualities of craftsmanship Work on the spot, reaction to special cases, direct commissioning, closeness to customers and flexibility are quality standards of this craftsmanship, specialised skills and a creative instinct are needed, acquired in a highly developed culture of craftsmanship (Au Guild → page 82) and naturally handed down to the next generation. This store of knowledge and skills is maintained and continually extended: raw materials – such as the silver fir – are cultivated to their most exquisite form, small batches in the field of furniture construction open up new markets, the pre-production of construction elements in the field of hotel construction, for example, is making progress. The latest manufacturing technologies such as CAM and CNC have been

introduced, the finish of coatings is expanded, for example: craftsmanship meets omnipresent engineering. Hence, it comes as no surprise that you can find kitchens from Hittisau in Athens, that the furnishings of a hall of residence in Massachusetts come from Schwarzenberg or that, in 2008, a living unit from Reuthe was visible on the roof of the MoMa in New York.

land & lives

five employees, some of them are one-man workshops, and only a few have double-digit employees.

au guild

Au-Rehmen with the Diedamskopf

Imagine: in a hardly developed mountain valley, tucked away in the very last corner, in a village, a group of people gets together and leaves its mark on the construction activities within a radius of several hundred kilometres for 150 years. And that in the form of large structures for churches and monasteries, without any precursors, without any academies, with buildings made from stone although wood was the only building material used in the valley. And then – as if appearing from nowhere, to vanish into thin air. Hard to believe, yet …

Initiative and self-help Around 1650, Michael Beer – then in his mid-forties – founded the Au Guild, named after the village of Au in the back of the Bregenzerwald. This was preceded by his apprenticeship and years of travel, with stops in the Rhine Valley, Lower Austria ... not much else is known. Following the devastation caused by the Thirty Years’ War, which was coming to an end, and guided by the Counter-Reformation, construction thrived in South Germany. Michael Beer and his contemporaries started to build for these clients. Although the start of the collegiate church in Kempten was fraught with friction, 20 years later Thumb, Moosbrugger, Beer (to name only the most important of over 50 personalities) were sitting firmly in the saddle. Over the next 150 years, hundreds of churches were built, including highlights such as the churches in Ellwangen (from 1682), Obermarchtal (from 1686), Einsiedeln (from 1674), Disentis (from 1696), Irsee (from 1699), Weingarten (from 1715), St. Peter, Schwarzwald (from 1724), St. Gallen (from 1755), Birnau (from 1747).

au guild

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The baroque Einsiedeln monastery in Switzerland

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In all their planning, building and training, the master builders concentrated on bricklayers and stucco plasterers. In the spring, groups of builders comprising up to 200 men arrived at the building sites: from autumn, construction was stopped and the builders returned to the valley, an experience richer. The winter was spent learning, using the available literature (Serlio, Pozzo, Vignola). The development of the Guild was undoubtedly enriched by the formation of a concept that was essentially simple, repeatable, economic yet adaptable and variable, without turning into a rigid pattern. Clients appreciated this fact. Yet, it cannot be said that the Au workmen were simple service providers, as displayed by the conflict surrounding Weingarten: Franz Beer threw the order at the feet of the abbots.

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Continuity and change More recent studies confirm that the builders contributed significant prosperity to the Hinterwald, as well as bringing fame and honour to their leaders: Franz Beer was awarded a title of nobility, and Peter Thumb was appointed councillor in Constance. This all had a widespread impact, as proven by the almost 2,000 released serfs by the end of the 18th century. This asset wasn’t lost when the clerical building activities stopped at the start of the new century. The radical change in agriculture meant new building tasks, such as new farms, which were praised by contemporary travellers as “farmers’ palaces” (→ page 76). History starts to repeat itself: the change-over from wood to stone is now successfully reversed. The acquired skills are continued in a new guise, with new material, with new tasks. A century later, another upturn in the field of craftsmanship can be seen: this time, it is the werkraum (→ page 80) which, with its furniture design, carries the Bregenzerwald name out into the world.

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Building activities subsided in the second third of the 18th century, to cease entirely with secularisation.

cabaret & village culture

Listed village square in Schwarzenberg

Schwarzenberg Advent 26 November to 20 December 2009 The atmospheric “Schwarzenberg Advent” has advanced to become a fixed date in the diaries of many guests and locals alike. 2009 also offers lots of interesting things to experience, to hear and to discover. The highlights are the concert with the Sonus Brass wind ensemble in Schwarzenberg’s church, the Christmas market, the readings with Erika Pluhar, Wolfram Berger, Ms Wolle, and much more. information Schwarzenberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 3570 www.schwarzenberg.at

Bahnhof Andelsbuch cultural society Andelsbuch railway station was built over a century ago. It is one of the last remaining historical railway buildings of the former Bregenzerwald railway. In recent years, the building has been carefully renovated, and in 2009 was enlarged. The Bahnhof Andelsbuch cultural society has been based here since 1999. With “arrivals, stays and meetings” as their motto, around 40 events such as concerts, readings and exhibitions are held every year. In 2006, the Bahnhof cultural society was awarded the Austrian State Prize for cultural innovations in the rural region. information Kulturverein Bahnhof T +43 (0)5512 4947 www.bahnhof.cc

Tip: Christmas market on 27 and 28 November 2009 on the village square in Schwarzenberg.

music salons in hotels

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Wälderness – Hirschen’s exquisite music salon

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Tip: Steffisalp open-air concert On 5 April 2010 (Easter Monday), an open-air concert will be held featuring Anna F. (well-known for the song “Time stands still”).

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Jazz in Steffisalp in Warth This is the place to finish off a day’s skiing to the sound of good jazz and lounge music. Live music in the fireside bar every Saturday. information Sporthotel Steffisalp T +43 (0)5583 3699 www.steffisalp.at

family tips

information Hotel-Gasthof Hirschen T +43 (0)5512 2944 www.hirschenschwarzenberg.at or www.waelderness.at

Culture in the “Sonne” in Mellau A varied cultural programme is always “in” and, hence, is at home in the Lifestyle Resort Sonne. New Year’s Eve gala on 31 December 2009: pianist Chris Gall, singer Anna Leman and band present jazz, blues and swing. From 9 p.m. information Sonne Lifestyle Resort Mellau T +43 (0)5518 20100-0 www.sonnemellau.com

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Wälderness – Hirschen’s exquisite music salon in Schwarzenberg Once upon a time, it was the “fiveo’clock-tea” which offered refined entertainment after a day on the slopes: now it is the music salons held in the evening. Under the motto “Wälderness”, selected jazz, blues, rock and new folk music ensembles – all of which have a touch of inside tip about them – play in the Hotel Hirschen in Schwarzenberg every Thursday.

exhibitions & museums & craftwork

Traditional costume worn by the women of the Bregenzerwald

Angelika Kauffmann Museum Schwarzenberg The municipality of Schwarzenberg displays works from its art collection in the Angelika Kauffmann Museum. The municipality owns many art treasures from the time of Angelika Kauffmann. opening times From 27 November 2009 Fri – Sun, 2 – 4 p.m. information & guided tours Schwarzenberg Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 3570 www.schwarzenberg.at Women’s Museum in Hittisau The Women’s Museum holds different exhibitions on the subjects of cultural history, contemporary art and social policy. opening times November – April: Thu 3 – 8 p.m., Fri 3 – 5 p.m., Sat, Sun 10 a.m. – 12 p.m. and 2 – 5 p.m. as well as following prior appointment. information & guided tours T +43 (0)664 88431964 www.frauenmuseum.at

Franz Michael Felder Museum Schoppernau Franz Michael Felder was a farmer, writer and social reformer and is one of the most historically significant personalities from the Bregenzerwald. The exhibition is an exploration of his life and works, displaying original documents, quotations and pictures, and featuring audio points. opening times Mon 4 – 6 p.m., Thu 9 – 11 a.m., Fri 5 – 7 p.m., Sun 9.30 – 11.30 a.m. information Schoppernau Tourismus T +43 (0)5515 2495 www.au-schoppernau.at Krumbach textiles workshop The textiles workshop in Krumbach considers it its duty to revive old handiwork techniques. Courses teach feltwork, the art of hairpin lace (a type of crocheting), the art of making bobbin lace, linen embroidery, weaving and wicker weaving. information Textilwerkstatt Krumbach T +43 (0)664 3663140 www.textil-werkstatt.at

87 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips culture

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

active winter

dining out

dining out well-being

bregenzerwald culinary delights region

Alpine dairy in Schnepfau

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

The Bregenzerwald is an Austrian gourmet region. These days, the word “gourmet” is used all too frequently in advertising: however, the expression “gourmet region” has a specific meaning: it is a registered brand by the Austrian Ministry for Food and the AMA (Agrarmarkt Austria), wishing to remind consumers of regional specialities. The basic prerequisites are that the ingredients come from the region, that production is regional, and that the products are firmly rooted in regional gastronomy. In the Bregenzerwald, this means alpine cheese. Every year, approximately 3,000 tons of alpine cheese are produced in the valley’s 17 dairies. Every year, 200 tons of alpine cheese are handmade by the 90 or more dairy alps every summer. The special thing about this cheese is the silofree milk it is produced from, since only 2% of EU dairy farmers produce in this way, i.e. their cows never eat silo fodder – instead, between May and October, they only eat grass and herbs. During the winter, they only eat the air-dried hay from valley

bregenzerwald culinary delights region

ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter culture

The passage of this modest alp fare to the current first-class restaurants in the Bregenzerwald – which now use over 50 regional types of cheese – went through a series of changes which demanded quality rather than quantity. These include the 1997 EU Protection of Origin of alpine and mountain cheeses, the establishment of the “KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald” in 1998 as a network of farmers, alpine dairies, craftsmen, publicans and businesses, the “Gourmet region of the Bregenzerwald” in 2005, the Vorarlberg quality marketing “luag druf” in 2005, the inclusion of Bregenzerwald mountain cheese into the “Ark of taste” by Slow Food 2008, and the “Bregenzerwald Gourmet Days” by the KäseStrasse in July 2009. The toughest taste test is still the most regional however: every year, alpine and mountain cheese is judged in Schwarzenberg. The winner at this event is enough to satisfy any gourmet’s taste buds.

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

and cheese were the main ingredients. The recipe for “Schwozermus” – named for the woodcutters from Schwaz – was: “Water, flour, salt, dripping – and that’s it!” The lack of bread on the alp gave rise to the “Käsknöpfle”, to “Sig”, known only in the Bregenzerwald and which is caramelised lactose, since they wanted to make a further product from the whey.

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meadows. In the so-called three-stage farming method, following their winter in the barn, the animals graze on the mountain pastures located at medium height (around 900 m) during the spring and the autumn, and on the high mountain pasture during the summer. The mountain pastures are run as a collective, since the farmers only have an average of 12 cows in the barn.

outstanding

Regional, light cuisine

The term “MundArt” has two meanings in the Bregenzerwald: firstly, it means the special dialects maintained in this region – even the Vorarlberg locals don’t understand it all! Secondly, “MundArt” stands for the creativity displayed by the Bregenzerwald catering trade. For them, it is a matter of etiquette to use produce from local farms in their kitchens: meat, vegetables, herbs and dairy products. The following Bregenzerwald restaurants and inns (most of which have received awards from gourmet guides) work according to the “MundArt” principle. Gasthof Adler in Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2966 www.adler-schwarzenberg.at Gasthof Hirschen in Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2944-0 www.hirschenschwarzenberg.at Gasthof Krone in Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6201 www.krone-hittisau.at

Gasthof Gams in Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2220 www.hotel-gams.at Hotel Krone in Au T +43 (0)5515 2201 www.krone-au.at Hotel Post in Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207-0 www.hotelpostbezau.com Hotel Das Schiff in Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6220 www.schiff-hittisau.com Restaurant ‘s Schulhus in Krumbach T +43 (0)5513 8389 www.schulhus.com information www.mundart-restaurants.at

the healthy & the extravagant

91 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom

Villa Maund in Schoppernau

estaurant im Hotel Quellengarten in R Lingenau T +43 (0)5513 6461-0

information Gasthof Schwanen T +43 (0)5514 2133 www.schwanen.at

dining out

information www.gsund.com

Enjoyment with Hildegard von Bingen The kitchen in the Hotel Schwanen in Bizau is orientated towards the teachings of abbess Hildegard von Bingen. Fresh produce from the region and the hotel’s own garden is lovingly prepared into delicious meals.

culture

Gasthaus Adler in Großdorf, Egg T +43 (0)650 7222105

information Wirtshaus zum Gämsle T +43 (0)5515 30062 www.villamaund.com

active winter

asthof Ochsen in Sulzberg G T +43 (0)5516 2114

family tips

Erlebnisgasthof Uralp in Au T +43 (0)5515 25192

Extravagant: Villa Maund The Villa Maund close to Schoppernau is a historical gem. Originally built as a hunting villa for an English banker, today it is part of the “Gämsle inn” in Schoppernau, and is used for culinary evenings and exquisite events.

xc skiing

G’sund & Vital restaurants (health-food restaurants) The restaurants which make up the “G’sund & Vital” union serve up creative, delicious health-food dishes for a feeling of well-being.

well-being

the healthy & the extravagant

From simple ingredients into culinary delights

Naze’s Hus in Mellau Naze’s (short name of Ignaz) Hus in Mellau, a small restaurant and B&B, uses only local produce. It has been named the “Top Taste Restaurant in Vorarlberg” in 2008. Naze’s Hus is accommodated in a carefully-renovated Bregenzerwald house listed for preservation with its typical, woodshingle façade. information Naze’s Hus T +43 (0)650 4627929 www.nazes-hus.at

“koch kunscht”: cooking and dining together It is under the motto “koch kunscht” that Karin Kaufmann gives cooking instructions for small groups of up to 12 participants. The objectives are two-fold: on the one hand, as a team, the art (“kunscht”) of transforming simple, high-grade ingredients from the region into everyday dishes, and to dine on them as a group. On the other hand, “kunscht” means “are you coming?”, inviting you to explore the cultural technique of cooking as such. The cooking lessons are held in an authentic setting: in a former inn in Egg. information koch kunscht Karin Kaufmann T +43 (0)664 2182733 www.kochkunscht.at

93 land & lives ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter dining out

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

culture

well-being

health hotels

The perfect way to finish off active winter days

Flair Kur- und Gesundheitshotel Rossbad*** Therapeutic fasting, vital weeks, wholefood cuisine. Krumbach T +43 (0)5513 5110 www.rossbad.com Vitalhotel Quellengarten*** Active hotel offering sports and relaxation activities. Spacious bathing and sauna complex plus fitness centre (open to the public). Lingenau T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at

Gesundhotel Bad Reuthe**** Applications using mud, wellness and beauty package deals. Lovely bathing house with a sauna and wellness complex and pool in the garden (open to the public). Reuthe T +43 (0)5514 2265-0 www.badreuthe.at Pension Engel*** Therapeutic fasting according to Dr. Buchinger Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6231-0 www.fastenkur.at

wellness hotels

Damülser Hof**** Wellnesshotel Location offering a breathtaking view at an altitude of 1,400 m above sea level. Damüls T +43 (0)5510 210 www.damuelserhof.at

Sporthotel Steffisalp**** Modern, elegant hotel with spacious Steffis spa. Warth T +43 (0)5583 3699 www.steffisalp.at

dining out

Landhotel Hirschen*** Yoga weeks, wellness and beauty days, the hotel has its own herb garden. Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 2320 www.landhotel-hirschen.at

culture

Hotel-Gasthof Das Schiff**** Lovely, new rooms and suites, spacious wellness area and garden, excellent cuisine. Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6220 www.schiff-hittisau.com

active winter

Vital Hotel Linde**** Wellness and golf hotel with the elegant Sunset spa and a magnificent view. (open to the public) Sulzberg T +43 (0)5516 2025 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at

family tips

Hotel Post**** Voted the best wellness hotel in Europe in 2008 by Geo Saison. Modernised in style in 2009. Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207 www.hotelpostbezau.com

xc skiing

Hirschen Wohlfühlhotel**** Informal establishment, adventure swimming pool with panoramic view of the countryside. Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 21150 www.hirschen.at

ski & freedom

Genießer- & Kuschelhotel Gams**** “Blütenschloss” with cosy suites, The Da Vinci spa has been extended in 2009. Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2220 www.romantik.cc

ski & board

Sonne Lifestyle Resort****S Opened in December 2008, modernyet-cosy designer rooms and suites, spacious comfort-zone spa. Mellau T +43 (0)5518 20100-0 www.sonnemellau.com

land & lives

Hotel Krone**** Sky spa in the fourth and fifth storeys with a view of the countryside. Bathing lake in the garden. Au T +43 (0)5515 2201-0 www.krone-au.at

well-being

wellness days

Architecture for a feeling of well-being

Some of the health and wellness hotels in the Bregenzerwald also offer wellness days for visitors who are not guests of their establishments. Prior reservations are required for all these programmes. The prices are per person. Flair Kur- und Gesundheitshotel Rossbad*** Krumbach T +43 (0)5513 5110 www.rossbad.com Rossbad wellness day Full-body massage, Scottish salt bath in the flotation lounger, affusion stimulating to the skin, use of the sauna and wellness area, including breakfast buffet, lunch and evening meal. € 140.00

Gesundhotel Bad Reuthe**** T +43 (0)5514 2265-0 www.badreuthe.at Relax day 1 mud pack with freshly cut natural mud or herbal bath, 1 all-over body massage, 1 facial exfoliant and mask, including day ticket to the thermal bath and sauna and wellness world, fitness room. € 95.00 Vitalhotel Quellengarten*** Lingenau T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at Chill-out day 1 back massage, 1 wellness bath of your choice, 1 solarium session, day ticket to the bathing and sauna world, use of the fitness room. € 82.00

wellness days

family tips active winter culture

Landhotel Hirschen*** Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 2320 www.landhotel-hirschen.at Wellness day 1 hot stone massage or 1 herbal stamp massage, 1 coloured light and sound therapy, 1 herbal bath of your choice, use of the sauna and steam bath. € 108.00

xc skiing

Vital Hotel Linde**** Sulzberg T +43 (0)5516 2025 www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at Wellness day – pure relaxation 1 pack of fresh hay flowers or almond oil bath, 1 back massage, day ticket to our Sunset spa with wellness pool, sauna complex, fitness room. € 66.00

ski & freedom

Sonne Lifestyle Resort****S Mellau T +43 (0)5518 20100-0 www.sonnemellau.com Simply beautiful Individual facial in the comfort zone, paraffin intensive pack for the hands (85 minutes), relaxing back and neck massage using a special aromatic oil (25 minutes), use of the spacious comfort zone spa and the fitness centre. Drinks and snacks in the Tea & Juice corner. € 149.00 All offers can be combined with breakfast from the large buffet in the Marktwelt between 8 and 9 a.m. for € 15.00 per person.

ski & board

Hirschen Wohlfühlhotel**** Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2115-0 www.hirschen.at Enjoyment day A sparkling welcome, snugly bath robe, pampering facial, relaxing partial-body massage, light wellness lunch, relaxation in the whirlpool, in the sauna, in the steam bath, on waterbeds, total immersion in the panoramic adventure pool (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). € 125.00

land & lives

Hotel Post**** Bezau T +43 (0)5514 2207 www.hotelpostbezau.com Active regeneration Relaxation treatment, all-over body massage using aromatic oils (40 minutes), reflexology massage, herbal and whey bath in the crystal coloured light magnetic field bath. Use of the swimming pool, wellness area and fitness room, vitalising aperitif and light lunch. € 213.00

dining out well-being

vorarlberg

Winter ambience in Warth-Schröcken

Vorarlberg: unearthed! Vorarlberg is a cosmopolitan province interested in art, located in the most westerly corner of Austria. An alpine idyll and vibrant cultural centre at the same time. Exciting and full of the joys of life. For over a century, all types of winter sport have been playing an important role in the mountainous land between Lake Constance and the Arlberg. Despite this, however, the villages haven’t been transformed into small “skiing stations”, and not all mountain peaks have been developed for winter sports. The skiing areas have been gently adapted to the natural features, which is very pleasing on the eye. The fact that Vorarlberg is a thriving winter sports country is, of course, also thanks to the lovely landscape: the interplay of gentle and challenging slopes, of pistes, areas for freeriders and variation skiers, and tranquil retreats for winter hikers and nature lovers.

Visitors to the area also love the atmospheric villages with their masterly and surprisingly brave blend of old and new (wooden) architecture. Standards of accommodation are high – from the five-star hotel through to the private room. You will find some of the best food in Austria here. information Vorarlberg Tourismus Poststraße 11 6850 Dornbirn, Österreich T + 43 (0)5572 377033-0 F +43 (0)5572 377033-5 info@vorarlberg.travel www.vorarlberg.travel

how to reach us

Munich 280 km

Friedrichshafen 95 km Memmingen 80 km

Lake Constance

Altenrhein 80 km Zurich 150 km

Bregenzerwald Klein walsertal

BodenseeVorarlberg

Arlberg FL

Alpenregion Bludenz

Innsbruck 135 km

Montafon CH

Editor:

Photographs:

Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH,

Adolf Bereuter (Titelbild, p. 12/22/50/68/78/88)

Impulszentrum 1135, 6863 Egg

Christoph Lingg (p. 67/70/72/74/76/86/90) Dietmar Walser www.walser-image.com (p. 14/98)

Design by:

Helmut Tiefenthaler (p. 56/57/58/59/66)

broger grafik, Andelsbuch

Ludwig Berchtold (p. 18/91) Monika Albrecht (p. 35)

Printed by:

Marc Van Landeghem (p. 71)

VVA, Dornbirn

Peter Mathis (p. 84) Roswitha Natter (p. 80)

Text by:

Rudolf Berchtel (p. 60/61/62/63/64)

Kinz Kommunikation

“Die Vorarlberger Barockbaumeister”, Franz Dieth (p. 83)

Florian Aicher (p. 8–9, 76–77, 78–79, 80–81, 82–83)

Archiv Au-Schoppernau Tourismus (p. 8/65/82)

Kurt Bracharz (p. 88–89)

Archiv Bregenzerwald Tourismus (p. 52) Archiv KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald (p. 92)

Carthography:

Archiv Damüls Tourismus (p. 4)

Aries Werbegrafik-Design

Archiv Hotel Hirschen, Schwarzenberg (p. 85)

Text and planning of hiking routes: Dr. Rudolf Berchtel

Archiv Hotel Krone Au (p. 94)

Archiv Hotel Lifestyle Resort Sonne Mellau (p. 96)

Archiv Ski! Projekt (p. 32) Data and prices subject to change. Typographical errors cannot be excluded. Edition: September 2009

umschlag_en_bw_rb_wi09_ok.indd 2

Archiv Skischule Schwarzenberg (p. 51)

toll road

** closed in winter

20.08.2009 15:26:59