MEET JOHANN VON GRÜNIGEN, COACHMAN OF THE STARS Elton John, Gunter Sachs, and Johnny Hallyday all have one thing in common: they rode a horse carriage with Johann von Grünigen. For 30 years now, the local farmer has been moonlighting as a coachman in and around Gstaad – with great success. Mr. von Grünigen, how did you start out with the horse carriage business? When I was 23, I became a farmer and wanted to become a ski instructor– but I couldn’t leave the farm. We’ve always had a horse, and I always felt a deep connection with them. So, I had the idea of starting the carriage business. What do you do when you’re not in the carriage? I like skiing, travelling within Switzerland, and yodelling – sometimes at yodelling festivals all over the country. This is a good change from my main occupation as farmer and moonlighting as a carriage driver.
You offer several routes, which one is your favourite and why? The route 6 Gstaad-Trom is very romantic with a wonderful view of Gstaad. The route to the Turbachtal valley offers peace and nature at the creek. The Fonduekutsche is very popular as well. What’s your favourite memory? I’ve been part of important moments like a marriage proposal. That’s something you’ll take through life. Meeting international start like Elton John, Gunter Sachs, or Johnny Halliday, is also very emotional for me personally.