GstaadLife Nr. 8 / 2012

©GRAFF DIAMONDS 2012

GRAND HOTEL PARK · 29 WISPILENSTRASSE · CH 3780 GSTAAD · TELEPHONE: +41 33 744 97 00 THE ALPINA GSTAAD · 23 ALPINASTRASSE · CH 3780 GSTAAD · TELEPHONE: +41 33 744 74 80 www.graffdiamonds.com

T H E E X C L U S I V E M O N T H LY P U B L I C A T I O N A B O U T T H E G O O D L I F E I N G S T A A D

Friday 14 December 2012 - Issue 8 - CHF 3.50 excl VAT

MAGAZINE

LOCAL PERSONALITY

· Adolf Schlunegger ALSO IN THIS ISSUE

· Ambulance stationed in Saanen during winter season · Areas at risk in real estate bubble · Sense of Delight in Saanen · ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Grand Hotel Park · Change of ownership of Grand Hotel Bellevue · New 5-Star superior for Gstaad

· Graff Diamonds in The Alpina COLUMN

· Happy Birthday, Jesus Christ!

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Friday 14 December 2012 Page 5

Contents Letter from the Editor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Local News Ambulance stationed in Saanen during winter season . . . . . . . . . . 7 Local Personality Mountain guide instructor Adolf Schlunegger steps back. . . . . . . . . 9 Local News Index of areas at risk in Real Estate Bubble . . . . . . . . . . 11 Opening of “Sense of Delight” in Saanen . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 If not now, when?. . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Tchaikovsky’s ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Grand Hotel Park . . . . . . . 15 The Gstaad Promenade Party is back! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Change of ownership of the Grand Hotel Bellevue. . . . . . . . . . 17

Events Column

New five star superior for Gstaad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 & 19 A jewel has been unveiled at The Alpina Gstaad . . . . . . . . . . . 20 New hosts for HotelRestaurant Bären . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel: one year after renovation . . . . . . 23 New General Manager for Restaurant Victoria . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Construction of boutique hotel in Rougemont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Objections against construction of new Post Office . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 Events calendar. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Happy Birthday, Jesus Christ! . . . 30

Letter from the Editor - All good things keep on going! made dear friendships, experienced a deeper level of local culture and blossomed a business partnership that will now absorb us beyond these pages.

After three fun filled and fascinating years my responsibility as Editor in Chief and my wife Sanet’s responsibility as content manager of GstaadLife, comes to a close with the publishing of this issue.

Our trade of skills across this intimate and very special local magazine has returned a success for which we are especially proud of.

Through our work with GstaadLife we have met fascinating characters,

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Fond memories such as spending an evening with a ‘pisten bully’ team, being inspired by world famous artists, working with local businesses on promotional strategies that made a real difference and last but not least, meeting time and again, some of the most charming personalities one could ever imagine.

Gstaad is such a gem. It has been a real privilege to spend time not only living here, but getting to know it closer to its roots. As a family we plan to rebuild our small family chalet

in Schönried whilst living in St–Legier in Canton Vaud, where our children Martin and Olivia undertake their schooling. Sanet launches a new media title in February 2013, whilst I continue with my expanding duties as CEO of the communications group GPL, which since early 2012 has a partnership in Gstaad.

To all of you at GstaadLife that we have worked with - the clients, columnists, contributors and readers, thank you for your collaborations. It has been a wonderful experience and a great pleasure.

Best wishes

Peter and Sanet Sonnekus-Williams

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also on www.gstaadlife.com

Gstaad LIFE, Anzeiger von Saanen, Kirchstrasse, P.O. Box 201, 3780 Gstaad, Phone: 033 748 88 74, Fax: 033 748 88 84, E-Mail: info@gstaadlife.ch, Website: www. gstaadlife.ch Management Board: Frank Müller, Peter Sonnekus-Williams Publisher: Frank Müller frank.mueller@gstaadlife.ch; Editor in Chief: Peter SonnekusWilliams peter.sonnekus@gstaadlife.ch; Project Management and content coordination: Sanet Sonnekus-Williams Columnist: Mandolyna Theodoracopulos Translations: Anja Brand Editorial: Anita Moser, Blanca Burri, Michael Föhn, Januaria Piromallo Polygraph Team: Jonas Bach Printing: Müller Marketing & Druck AG, Gstaad Advertising: Peter Kuntze-Schneider peter.kuntze@gstaadlife.ch, Phone: 033 744 46 64 Subscriptions: Flurina Mutzner Phone: 033 748 88 74

Picture on the Front Cover by: frechdax / photocase.com

présente les

Le Violoncelle Roi du 1er au 9 février 2013 SAANEN Mario Brunello | Georg Schmöhe | Orchestre Symphonique de Munich | Soo-Hyun Park | Radoslaw Szulc Camerata Europeana | Elisabeth Leonskaja | Wojciech Rajski | Orchestre de Chambre Philharmonique de Pologne | Andreas Scholl | David Greilsammer | Orchestre de Chambre de Genève | Maximilian Hornung Orchestre de Chambre du Bayerischer Rundfunk GSTAAD Kian Soltani | Carl Wolf | Victor Julien-Laferrière Adam Laloum | Harriet Krijgh | Kamilla Isanbaeva | Sandra Lied Haga | Gunnar Flagstad | Benedict Klöckner | José Gallardo | Sayaka Selina | Mathis Bereuter | Pablo Ferrández | Luis del Valle | Edgar Moreau | Pierre-Yves Hodique ROUGEMONT Rachel Kolly d’Alba | Christian Chamorel | Joseph Moog | Mario Brunello | Alexandre Tharaud

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 7

Picture: Anita Moser

Ambulance stationed in Saanen during winter season

An ambulance rescue service will be stationed in the former Saanen hospital during the winter season.

In order to improve the ambulance service in the region, a rescue team will be stationed in the former Saanen hospital building during daytime. During the night, Air Glaciers will provide the emergency service in Saanenland, and is financed by “Friends of The Hospital”. The temporary pilot project will start on December 15, for the whole winter season.

The ambulance service in the regions of Saanenland and Obersimmental has been subject to criticism for a long time. Many consider that the distance that ambulances have to cover is too great and that the emergency care for the habitants of both valleys is insufficient. For the coming winter season, the ambulance service will now be improved. The Spital STS AG has done a fact-based analysis of their current ambulance service. Over 95% of the patients with a possible life-

threatening disease or accident can be reached within 30 minutes, says the STS AG. As a result of this analysis, they have come up with a plan to improve the ambulance service, especially for villages such as Gsteig, Lauenen and Lenk. The implementation of this plan will start on December 15 2012 and will last until the end of the winter season 2012/2013. After the season, the project will be evaluated in detail in order to make final decisions about the ambulance service in Simmental-Saanenland. The director of healthcare in the Canton of Berne has approved financial support of the project, meaning that the Canton will take over the costs.

cluding an emergency doctor for Saanenland. The Spital STS AG has a co-operation agreement with Air Glaciers, which was initiated by Air Glaciers themselves. “We have been thinking about how we can ensure emergency care for both residents and visitors without the hospital in Saanen,” says Ferdinand Eschler, emergency medical technician. The project will co-operate strongly with the hospital of Zweisimmen and its ambulance service, as it does not want to compete against this service. The service will be stationed in the former Saanen hospital building and as such, the retirement home will also benefit from this.

The ambulance service of the Spital STS AG is running a 24-hour emergency service in Zweisimmen and a rescue team in Saanen from 8am to 6pm. During the night, the “Friends of Saanen Hospital” will sponsor the service of the Air Glaciers in-

The President of Saanen municipality, Aldo Kropf, is also convinced by the solution. “Now we have a 24-hour service in both Saanenland and Simmental,” he says. Even the emergency telephone number has not changed - in all cases, the

emergency number 144 should be dialed.

The STS AG has taken other immediate measures: the Chateau d’Oex ambulance service and the two 144 emergency centers (canton Berne and Waadt) have agreed to a coordination between the cantons.

Furthermore, they want to extend the First Responder System, which is the service that responds after urgent calls to the 144 number. The STS AG has built additional groups for this system in Saanenland and Simmental and has planned an information session for Saanenland.

The medium term target for the STS AG is also to organize a Rapid Response Team. These are emergency medical technicians who are supporting the STS AG ambulance service and will also be financed by them.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE BY ANITA MOSER/PRESS RELEASE AVS 27.11.2012

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Friday 14 December 2012 Page 9

LOCAL PERSONALITY

Mountain guide instructor Adolf Schlunegger steps back Adolf Schlunegger was a mountain guide instructor for 21 years with the Swiss Association of Mountain Guides (SBV). This autumn, he gave his last courses in Grindelwald. He will remain as an instructor for hiking guides. favorite place. At the age of 22 he completed his training as a mountain guide. He made an apprenticeship as a carpenter in his hometown Lauterbrunnen and became a foreman in 1986. During a climbing

tour, he met his wife Verena Marti and they moved to her hometown Gsteig 20 years ago.

Picture: Blanca Burri

“I have found out very early that I was made for walking long distances”, says Adolf Schlunegger. Grown up in a farmer’s family, he learnt to work hard from the beginning.

But the mountains were always his

Mountain guide instructor Adolf Schlunegger.

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After working as a mountain guide for 9 years, he needed a new challenge in sharing his knowledge with the younger generation. He was supporting the courses for alpine mountaineering and climbing in summer, and alpine mountaineering and ski tours in winter. The training for a mountain guide takes three years and includes different courses. Around 30 mountain guides complete the training every year. He wishes that more young people from Saanen would become mountain guides.

life is not always easy with a mountain guide. “I often took two months off unpaid holidays in spring and summer”, says Schlunegger. “I am very grateful that I found such flexible employers. My family also supported me; even although I was sometimes away for several weeks”.

Often enough, mountain guides go back to their initial profession. “It simply rains too often”, he says. The main point is that guests are booking their trips when they are on holiday, and every guide would like to give their guests a beautiful and memorable experience.

After 21 years, it is important to him to hand over to the younger generation. The 52-year old fondly remembers with a smile: “When I did my training 30 years ago, I thought the 50-year old instructor was old!” Nevertheless, he will remain as an instructor of the hiking guides and is currently working on a project in Kirgizstan to train mountain guides. What happens after that? “I don’t know yet,” he says. One of his knees causes him some problems. But one thing is sure: he will keep being a very engaged person, as he is a member of the municipality board in Gsteig, 100 years Tourism Gsteig and also has his family.

For an employer or even the family,

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY BLANCA BURRI AVS 19.10.2012

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Friday 14 December 2012 Page 11

LOCAL NEWS

Index of areas at risk in Real Estate Bubble The real estate market is currently thriving, partly due to the low rates of return in the financial sector, meaning that property has become an increasingly attractive investment option. This trend has also an impact on the Saanenland: according to UBS’s Real Estate Bubble index, our region is considered a risk area.

gadin. The “monitoring” areas are Nidwalden, Innerschwyz, Basel-City, Knonaueramt and Glattal-Furttal.

Switzerland as a whole reached a level of 1.02 points on the Real Estate Bubble index in the third quarter of 2012. This is the first time the country has reached this level of risk

since the 1990s. Part of the reason for this increased demand for real estate is low interest rates (for credit and savings).

As the rates of return in the financial sector are currently so low, people

prefer to invest in “safe” real estate, where the returns are potentially better. Since Switzerland is also a popular destination for immigration, this also ensures a constant demand for living space and real estate.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE BY MICHAEL FÖHN AVS 09.11.2012

Saanenland has risen in the index.

Last year, the UBS Swiss Real Estate Bubble index ranked Saanenland as a “monitoring area”, which meant it was under careful observation.

Only one year later, it is now considered as a risk area, according to UBS. This means the region is in the same category as the areas surrounding Basel, Zurich, Limmattal, Pfannenstiel, Zimmerberg, March, Zug, Geneva and the almost purely tourist destinations of Davos and Oberen-

Light red: monitoring areas / Dark red: risk areas.

Opening of “Sense of Delight” in Saanen Saanen has a new shop! On November 17 2012 “Sense of Delight”, a new grocery store that sells luxury foods, opened its door. Reasonable priced niche products such as beer of the canton of Jura can also be found.

The shop is located in the former BEKB building, a nice wooden chalet that fits perfectly in the village of Saanen. Jürg Kappeler and his wife Ursula are newcomers in the field of selling luxury products, but they both have similar professional experiences. He was a former chef in Gstaad and she worked for events in the marketing and communications field.

The initial aim was to build an Internet home delivery service in Saanenland. But whilst looking for

locations, the idea of presenting the products nicely became more important. This is why the products

can now be purchased through the Internet as well as in the store in Saanen. The main business is to sell caviar (canned), first of all the “Oona”-caviar from the aquaculture of Tropenhaus Frutigen. “We think that Tropenhaus has great products and an excellent reputation worldwide.” Amongst expensive caviar and champagne also reasonable priced teas, special chocolate and beer is sold.

Sense of Delight is clearly not a common grocery store, but a place for special delights.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY MICHAEL FÖHN FROM AVS 20.11.2012

Jürg Kappeler and his wife Ursula, owners of Sense of Delight.

Winter-Events at the Savour Magic in the Mountains. We are looking forward to celebrating our winter events with you: 20-22.12.

Pierre Bergé & Associés, Expert’s workshop

10-12.01.

Boris Krunic, painting exhibition

22-23.12.

Precious Russia, Vernissage

All Sundays in February

24.12.

Christmas Dinner at all restaurants accompanied by music of Quartet Scherzo (from 8.30pm)

seafood buffet at Le Grand Restaurant (noon to 3pm)

07-11.02.

Chatila, winter jewellery exhibition

13-15.02.

Seaman Schepps, jewellery exhibition

13-19.02.

Chopard, watch & jewellery exhibition

14.02.

Valentine’s Day Aperitif at the Lobby Bar (from 7.30pm) and dinner at Le Grand Restaurant (from 8.00pm)

16-20.02.

Vicedomini, fashion exhibition

20-26.02.

de GRISOGONO, watch & jewellery exhibition

22-24.02.

Sciretti, fur exhibition

21-25.02.

Kessaris, jewellery exhibition

26.12.

Season Kick-Off Party Alice in Wonderland at the GreenGo (from 11.00pm) Dresscode: Alice in Wonderland Until 1.00am by invitation only

26-30.12.

Adler, Diamonds in the snow

28-30.12.

Galerie Fischer, Modern Art

31.12.

New Year’s Eve Dinner & Party Aperitif at the Lobby Bar (from 8.00pm) and dinner at the restaurants and Salle Baccarat (from 9.30pm) with 4 Orchestras in the restaurants at the GreenGo

01.01.

New Year’s Buffet in all restaurants with “Los Aztecas” (from 12.30pm)

02.03.

Farewell Evening at Gildo’s Ristorante with Italian Buffet (from 7.30pm)

03-05.01.

August Laube, designs for 16c. stainglass windows

03-08.03.

Chinese Gourmet Week (from 7.30pm)

09.03.

03-07.01.

Dan Roma, custom-made shirt exhibition

05-07.01.

Sciretti, fur exhibition

Farewell Evening with Chinese buffet of the Executive Chef of the Peninsula Bejing Mr Xu Chi Ping at Gildo’s Ristorante

06.01.

Russian Christmas at Le Grill (from 8pm)

3780 Gstaad - Switzerland Phone: +41 33 748 50 00 - Fax: +41 33 748 50 01 info@palace.ch - www.palace.ch

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 13

If not now, when?

Pictures: zvg

BY JANUARIA PIROMALLO to learn pirouettes with Gunther.

Peter has been a friend to the last to Gunther: he visited him often in his chalet in Gstaad, playing Bingo and remembering the good times gone by.

Peter by birth right was always a protagonist of the glamor system.

He was born from a well to do family, his father was the largest producer of steel in Switzerland.

Peter Notz with his children Cedric, Clarina and Justine.

He is as much a part of Gstaad as the Eiffel Tower is to Paris and Francois Pinault is to contemporary art.

Peter Notz, after having spent a quarter of his lifetime “dribbling” me like a football player, finally lends himself to an interview with me to write his memoir.

Horneggli is already open, Peter’s tracks have long been imprinted into its snowy slopes. He has the same enthusiasm as a boy, a joie de vivre that even the darkest moments of his frantic existence has shone through. Four wives, almost five, well perhaps almost six and five children.

ters such as Gunther Sachs. Peter was best man at the wedding of the last century of Gunther and Brigitte Bardot.

Brigitta Notz, wife number three, has now become his best friend.

Clarina, his daughter has given him two grandchildren, one Giselle, a tribute to Rudolf Nureyev, who is Clarina’s godfather. Another chapter of Peter ‘s life, Nureyev, a ballet star that Peter helped to flee from the then Communist Russia.

He conquered her heart with a shower of roses from a helicopter onto her villa in Saint Tropez. He then showed up in his tuxedo, and whisked her away on a speedboat called “Dracula”. Ahi, but la divina Brigitte was capricious. A year into the marriage, she made enduring excuses such as “I can not go because I have a fever and I must stay home”. Once Gunther found her instead at the coiffeur ready to go out for another party. That was the end of their love affair.

His skis are already prepared and waxed. Adrien, his guardian angel, loads them into the car and off they go.

To say Peter is an icon of the jet set would be an understatement. He invented the jet set, with charac-

There are a few who still remember Brigitte on the skating rink at the Grand Hotel Park, stubbornly trying

Clarina Notz with her husband.

Cedric and Brigitta Notz.

Brigitta and Peter Notz.

Even now he has little time, but not because at 87 years old he feels close to the last round of the hourglass. Instead he says ‘look outside, it’s snowing’, it’s the first virgin snow of the season and we must not let it go un-missed.

He undertook his education with the commitment of a first class student and cultivated this commitment through to his graduation with honors at MIT. When he began to get bored, he then became a bon viveur.

Embraced by the nature of the mountains of Gstaad, he feels in a state of grace just like falling in love. Peter is one who falls in love often. Perhaps too often. Even now at 87 years, he continues to feel as if 35. “Theory passes by, the power is ridiculous: only the passion in life gives meaning to existence.”

The maddest thing that you have done for love. A madness that conquered a womans heart? “Ouh-lala! Let me think. They were not very original. Let’s say: I’m still waiting to be surprised by a woman.”

Peter Notz.

ADVERTORIAL

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 14

A winter full of colours Silk Road with its captivating fragrances. Also, the Grand Hotel Park is proud to announce that for two extraordinary evenings, Philippe Rochat will work in the Grand Hotel Park’s kitchen, hand in hand with Benoît Violier, Gault Millau Chef of the Year 2013.

Does one not say that during the season Gstaad is “the most sought after place to meet” in the world? As a tribute to our village, the Grand Hotel Park, once again, becomes Gstaad’s most enthusiastic ambassador and has designed a seasonal programme full of colour, surprises, parties and treats.

While being sure to stay true to our traditions, this year we will also be celebrating, in the most beautiful way, the Orthodox Christmas and Chinese New Year. On New Year’s Eve escape for an evening out of 1001 Nights - with an exclusive 8-course gala dinner, live entertainment, orchestra and traditional fireworks at midnight. In February, three celebrated Chefs will take you on a culinary journey along the

In addition, we celebrate the season with a refreshed offer in our Bars.

We are excited to open a new Bar off the Lobby to the right. The “Library Lounge” will offer a warm, cosy and more quiet ambiance to relax and chill - just with a book or a glass of wine. The main Bar will become even more lively with DJ’s and artists performing every night, thus creating a “clubby” atmosphere. Of course we will continue to serve the acclaimed sushi menu and all your favorite snacks and dishes. Our new service team headed up by Thierry Kremper, Director of Restaurants and Bars, and Gennaro Carrozza, Chef Barman, is looking forward to welcoming you soon.

As usual, join us for various exhibitions and special events or visit in

Menu St Sylvestre 1001 Nuits Noix de St Jacques poêlée sur brunoise d’ananas à la coriandre, tartine d’harissa et sa sauce ***** Duo de foie gras chaud et froid, carpaccio de bœuf du Simmental, chutney de figue et brioche ***** Trilogie de saumon Balik et caviars, croustillant aux graines de couscous ***** Crystal de bœuf à la fleur d’oranger ***** Risotto à la truffe blanche et pétales de roses ***** Queue de langoustine pochée à l’épice de raz el Hannut, crème de pois chiches ***** Médaillon de filet de veau aux morilles, Médaillon de filet de bœuf à la truffe noire, Côtelette d’agneau en croûte de menthe ***** Buffet de fromages affinés et douceurs de notre Chef Pâtissier our Lobby the new boutiques Gucci and Chronometryx, featuring exclusively Audemars Piguet, Piaget and Panerai. We are happy to be sharing an unforgettable winter season with you!

For further information or reservations please contact +41 (0)33 748 98 00

Grand Hotel Park event agenda December & January December 21st to 23rd Official opening of our new bars December 21st The Nutcracker, a Christmas show on ice December 24th Santa Claus visit & treats for children December 24th Christmas Eve dinner December 25th Christmas Day brunch December 27th Official opening of the new Gucci boutique December 27th to January 6th New Year Music Festival’s 7th season December 29th & 30th Exposition QI Jewels Genève December 31st 1001 Nights New Year’s Eve gala dinner, entertainment, orchestra & fireworks January 1st New Year’s Day brunch

January 4th January 5th January 5th January 5th & 6th January 6th

January 7th & 8th January 11th January 19th & 20th January 25th

A.C. Bang Fourrures Fashion show & cocktail A.C. Bang Fourrures Exhibition Laurent Perrier Champagne Dinner Exposition QI Jewels Genève Orthodox Christmas Eve: Gala dinner, “Les Nuits de Moscou” musicians, Dedushka Moroz & Snegurochka visit Teuscher Chocolates Atelier Breguet Exhibition & Cocktail Audi Skicross Tour 25h Free Ride Gala Dinner to benefit the François-Xavier Bagnoud Foundation

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 15

Tchaikovsky’s ‘The Nutcracker’ at the Grand Hotel Park For the season opening of the Grand Hotel Park ‘Les Etoiles de la Patinoire ‘ will perform, on ice, one of the most classical and beautiful performances, Tchaikovsky’s ‘The Nutcracker’, inspired by the magic Balenchine Ballet.

The choreography will once again be created by the wonderful Mary Jermany, once upon a time the star of ‘Holidays on Ice’. The dancers on ice will be wearing classic tutus, however in the pastel color of macarons, with flowers and butterflies, made by the designer Andrea Clarkson and Benedetta Setti from Maison LB. Cotton Candy will be served under the stars with hot chocolate and other treats. Tiare Von Meister, Sa-

brina Scherz, Elina Obayda, Arabella Ryter, Estelle Fischer, Arianna & Camilla Proto, Eleonora & Victoria Hamilton will once again entertain guests with pirouettes, jumps and twists for the “Sugar Plum dance”.

Anouska and Sara Martuscelli (Italian champion) will be the primadonna of “The Dance of Reed Pipes”. The Swiss champion Leonie Krail, with his partner Oscar Peters in a pas a deux, will enchant the spectators performing the “Walzer of the Flowers”.

Just as a reminder that our children are luckier than others, the girls once again will dance to help children of Ethiopia for the “Lisa WoodWard Foundation”.

Picture: zvg

BY JANUARIA PIROMALLO

“The Nutcracker” on ice at the Grand Hotel Park Gstaad on December 21 2012 at 18h00.

After the performance of The Nutcracker, Santa will be handing out presents to the children. In this picture (from left): Kamalei, Tiare von Meister, Allegra Simoni, Sara Matruscelli.

The Gstaad Promenade Party is back!

After the great success of the first edition in September, the Gstaad Promenade Party team is now preparing the Winter Edition that will take place on Saturday, March 9, 2013.

The great feedback that Jean-Sébastien Robine and Claudia Schlup have received encouraged them to continue this adventure which is essential to support the beautiful region of Gstaad and unite its people.

As a unique event on the “most beautiful avenue of the world”, the winter edition will highlight local products and exceptional wines

Picture: zvg

Gstaad Promenade Party, Winter Edition. Luxury and tradition on the “most beautiful avenue of the world” on Saturday, March 9, 2013.

Jean-Sébastien Robine and Claudia Schlup.

such as selected “Grand Cru’s” from Switzerland, France and Italy that can be enjoyed in some of the most beautiful places of the village along the Gstaad Promenade.

Authenticity, tradition and innovation remain the three key values of this event; Jean-Sébastien and Claudia are trying to promote the extension of the winter season that is vital to Gstaad and its economy.

The ideas of the people in Gstaad on how to contribute to this event are welcome, the team is happy to consider these in order to continue to offer such a fabulous quality on that special day.

Many surprises and some magic moments will wait for you, we look forward to seeing you again for an unforgettable afternoon.

WWW.GSTAADPROMENADEPARTY.COM, CONTACT@GSTAADPROMENADEPARTY.COM

ADVERTORIAL

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 16

On December 26, 2012, the Grand Hotel Bellevue will proudly celebrate its 100th anniversary!

Built in 1912, the 5-star luxury hotel is located in the very heart of Gstaad, a picturesque Swiss resort of world renown. The Gebrüder Boss opened the doors of the Grand Hotel Bellevue & Kurhaus to a dazzled public for the first time on December 26, 1912.

In the autumn of 1922, the hotel was leased to Mr. & Ms. Fritz and Margrit Oesch-Zbinden.

Soon their hard work bore fruit and they were ready to take the risk to buy the hotel.

In 1925, at the young age of 32, the director of the hotel became its owner. Under his leadership, the hotel was modernized during the next few years and luxurious apartments for the more discerning guests were added. A billiard room, a bar and the Restaurant Français were opened for the guests‘ entertainment. These and many more amenities contributed in evoking a sense of pleasant homeliness and

100 years offered outstanding accommodation perfectly suited to meet the distinct needs of the guests.

In 1933, the Bahnhofsbuffet Thun was leased to Fritz Oesch. Afterwards the luxury hotel continued under the leadership of a number of hotel directors and general managers. On June 9, 2001, Dr. h.c.

Thomas Straumann, an entrepreneur from Basel, became the owner of the Grand Hotel Bellevue. After

extensive refurbishment, the 5-star deluxe hotel that is situated amid a magnificent park, reopened and welcomes guests with stylish design, sophisticated luxury, all modern amenities and an ultimate Spa escape.

Since December 1st, 2012 the Grand Hotel Bellevue has been taken over by entrepreneurs Daniel Koetser and Dr. h.c. Rudolf Maag.

The new owners and their families have deep roots in the region. They will retain the management team under General Manager Philip Erne and operate the Grand Hotel Bellevue in the accustomed style as an autonomous luxury hotel.

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 17

ADVERTORIAL / LOCAL NEWS

LE TRESOR by Zwahlen Hüni After moving to the Villigerhuus opposite the Rialto in December 2010, Zwahlen-Hüni opened a new boutique, LE TRESOR this past August 2012 which is situated next to Fuhrer Cigares and Tobacco on the Promenade Gstaad.

As the name announces, it is full of lovely treasuries. The interior is presented “Gstaad-like” with old wood and furniture from the area which exudes a warm atmosphere.

Zwahlen Hüni, a family-run business, is well established in Saanen and Gstaad and has been serving customers since 1948.

Available exclusively at the shop is the rarest and warmest fibre in the world called QUIVIUT. The special shawls, pullovers and jackets are something totally unique. Yarn experts say the fibre is as soft as a cloud, warmer than sheep wool, softer than cashmere and as light as a feather. QUIVIUT’S fibres are obtained from the undercoat of the Canadian Arctic muskox known as “the gold of the Arctic”.

LE TRESOR represents many quality fashion brands such as: Mirabell knitwear, Andrea Eberle cashmere, an embroidered shoe collection from Salzburg and the exclusive T.ba hats from Spain – just to name a few. Zwahlen Hüni is also a stockist of the Longchamp brand and has a fine range of handbags and suitcases in different colours and sizes.

Further available at LE TRESOR are Austrian style jackets for men and women such as Poldi and Zeiler leather and of course the “Couture

by Zwahlen-Hüni” collection designed by Alex Zwahlen. The jackets can be made to measure and the materials and styles can be chosen individually, allowing you to create your very own jacket.

Gardeur and Luisa Spagnoli. You really can find all you need under one roof at Zwahlen-Hüni in Saanen and Gstaad.

LE TRESOR, PROMENADE 55, +41 33 744 01 80 ZWAHLEN HÜNI GSTAAD, PROMENADE 65, +41 033 744 22 73 ZWAHLEN HÜNI SAANEN, DORFSTRASSE 50 - 52, +41 33 744 16 87, ZWAHLENHUENI@BLUEWIN. CH, WWW.ZWAHLENHUENI.CH

The ladies and men fashion houses at Villigerhuus Promenade 55 and the main store at Dorfstrasse 50 in Saanen are offering the usual choice of Geox, Mc Gregor, Barbour,

Change of ownership of the Grand Hotel Bellevue Businessman Daniel Koester and Rudolf Maag have taken over the Grand Hotel Bellevue from Thomas Straumann, effective on December 1 2012. It was agreed not to disclose any information about the purchase price.

Thomas Straumann is pleased that Rudolf Maag and his son-in-law Daniel Koester have decided to buy the hotel. “I couldn’t imagine any better solution for the hotel and Gstaad. They have the needed experience and passion to continue with the history of the Grand Hotel”, says Straumann.

The new owners and their families have their roots in Saanenland and know the hotel. “I have met my wife here, we feel at home in this region”, says Daniel Koester. “We will lead the Grand Hotel Bellevue in the proven manner. The General Manager Philip Erne will continue managing it”, says the new owner.

“Guests should feel at home”, says Koetser. “It is too early to talk about changes, but there is some optimizing potentials. First we have to talk with the management.” For now, it will remain a two season’s hotel. “We would like to open the hotel during the whole

year, but the figures have to add up.”

Businessman Daniel Koester.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY ANITA MOSER AVS 30.11.2012

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 18

New five star superior for Gstaad

Official hand over of The Alpina Gstaad to the Managing Director. From left to right: Niklaus Leuenberger, Managing Director The Alpina Gstaad; Marcel Bach, Co-owner, The Alpina Gstaad; Nachson Mimran, President Mimran Group Europe. offers a private Spa with a fitness and massage room which occupies most of the top floor of the suite.

Panoramic skylights frame the mountain tops, an outdoor whirlpool and a fireplace ensure the ultimate private spa experience. Similar to the Panorama Suite, the hotel rooms are furnished with antiques

and state-of-the-art facilities. Signature designs such as bedside lamps in the shape of a cow bell are an homage to the Saanenland.

“The ultramodern comfort, sophisticated service and the passion of our staff will enhance the luxury hotel industry in Gstaad“, Managing Director Niklaus Leuenberger Pictures: Anita Moser

“We have waited for this day for a long time and are very proud that this project which is so close to our hearts now celebrates its premiere after four years of building“, commented the owners of The Alpina Gstaad, Mr Marcel Bach and Mr Jean-Claude Mimran. “Without our outstanding team of architects, designer and craftsmen, who have implemented our vision for Gstaad’s new hotel icon with such dedication, this could not have been developed – a boutique hotel, that redefines alpine sophistication and authenticity.“ Highlight among the 56 rooms and suites is the 400 sqm large Panorama Suite, which is situated on the 5th and 6th floor. Designed in the style of a classy alpine residence, it

Picture: zvg / The Alpina Gstaad

On December 1, The Alpina Gstaad celebrated its debut with a glittering opening event. It is the first newly built luxury hotel in Gstaad in 100 years. As it opens, the hotel enjoys one of the best possible honor to be awarded a five star superior rating by the prestigious “hotelleriesuisse“ organization.

On the red carpet in front of the lobby: the local Yodelling Clubs “Gruss vom Wasserngrat, Baergfriede & Gsteig.”

feels certain. It is the first hotel in Switzerland to offer a Six Senses Spa, a 2’000 sqm large-size spa offering 12 treatment rooms with a Hammam and a Flotation Room.

The Salt Room with Himalayan crystal rock salt walls and flooring benefits the respiratory system. The 25 metres indoor lap pool is located in a massive rock grotto. High-end spa brands such as QMS, Biologique Recherche and il a offer highly effective facials and treatments.

The culinary management is in the hands of starred chef Marcus G. Lindner. He is responsible for the cuisine of the signature restaurant Sommet, the Swiss Stübli, as well as the Japanese gourmet restaurant MEGU – celebrating its first West European debut at The Alpina Gstaad. For this, star designer Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance created a unique interior that celebrates Japanese and alpine cultures with a combination of antique Kimonosilk, alpine woods and cinnabar red

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 19

nuances. More than 480 different wines on the wine list complete the menus. While the vinothek keeps almost 2000 wines, the wine cellar offers connoisseurs 3,000 rarities from the best vineyards in Switzerland, Italy and France.

Further highlights are the private cinema for 2-D or 3-D presentations, as well as a Cuban inspired Cigar Lounge, that presents a collection of 50 varieties of cigar brands to aficionados of the fine smoke. For the very young guests, the adventure room provides a tree house and slide and inter-active facilities such as a painting wall board and media center.

Rates at The Alpina Gstaad range from 850 CHF for a room with double occupancy. Speciality here: Room rates include breakfast inroom or buffet breakfast in The Restaurant as well as a daily, nonrefundable credit of CHF 150 per person to be used in the restaurants, lounge or room service.

LOCAL NEWS

A tribute to the Saanenland: bedside lamps in the form of cow bells.

Picture: zvg / The Alpina Gstaad

The spa covers 2’000 m2. The pool has a length of 25 meters.

The 400 m2 Panorama Suite is a three-bedroom duplex apartment on the fifth and sixth floors.

Co-owner Jean-Claude Mimran.

The Japanese Restaurant Megu at The Alpina Gstaad is the first European location of the Megu concept, with its flagship in New York.

ABBA

Pleased with the successful opening ceremony (from left): Ueli Bach (brother of Marcel Bach) with daughters DesirĂŠe and Virginia and wife Karin; Marcel Bach with girlfriend Tina Bernreitner and her mother Karin.

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 20

A jewel has been unveiled at The Alpina Gstaad Graff Diamonds is excited to announce the opening of its latest boutique, the second in the prestigious location of Gstaad.

The design, inspired by the luxurious and pristine surroundings of the idyllic mountain setting, was conceived by Graff’s inhouse Monte Carlo-based interior design team, the visionaries behind Graff’s other global stores including Tokyo, Geneva, Taipei, Dubai, Hong Kong and Monte Carlo.

The latest gem in Graff’s ever expanding crown of stores, the new salon ex-

udes the feel of a sumptuous Swiss chalet, with oak panelled walls, stunning parquet floors, and wooden ceiling details. Bronze fixtures, ebony showcases in deep colours bursting with richly coloured Graff diamonds and gemstones, and a sparkling crystal chandelier further enhance the opulent yet intimate feel of the boutique.

Graff’s latest boutique, a treasure in itself, is the perfect setting for showcasing the most fabulous jewels in the world.

présente un Roman de

PATRICK WALTER TONNERIEUX Le Dandy de Gstaad III The Six Senses Spa at The Alpina Gstaad

You don’t have to stay the night to indulge in some pampering.

J’ai longtemps cru que l’auteur d’un livre devait se cacher derrière des personnages.

Rien de plus faux. Il souhaite parfois comme a l’habitude de le faire Patrick Walter Tonnerieux se mettre dans l’histoire en jouant entre fiction et interviews réelles, tel un jeux de miroirs... J’ai découvert le Dandy de Gstaad III avec gourmandise. Ce n’est pas un livre ordinaire qui s’emmure dans les mots. Mais c’est un livre qui partage : beauté, laideur, jalousie, dogmatisme et vie trop courte... Voilà, ça y est, je vous le dis. C’est humain à souhait !

Dak Peart, New York PATRICK WALTER TONNERIEUX

18 décembre 2012 : à partir de 18h à l’Hôtel Olden

Le

B

ring your five senses into perfect harmony and experience a sixth − a profound feeling of wellbeing − in

III

spa has various saunas, heated indoor and outdoor pools ing water aerobics courses, 50 % discounts on fitness classes, juices, water, tea and fresh fruit. All this from just CHF 70 per person. www.thealpinagstaad.ch

19 décembre 2012 : à partir de 11h à la Boutique Hublot, Promenade à partir de 18h au Grand Hôtel Bellevue 20 décembre 2012 : à partir de 14h à l’Hôtel Olden à partir de 18h au Gstaad Palace (Salon Bridge)

our Six Senses Spa. Open daily from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m., the with whirlpools, and a fully equipped gym. It offers morn-

Dédicaces à Gstaad :

CHF 60.–

21 décembre 2012 : à partir de 11h au Grand Hôtel Park à (Coiffeur Yannick) à partir de 16h chez Müller Marketing & Druck à partir de 18h au Bernerhof

Patrick Walter Tonnerieux

22 décembre 2012 : à partir de 11h Promenade chez Olyver Coiffure à partir de 18h à l’Hôtel Olden 23 décembre 2012 : à partir de 15h à la Boutique Trésor, Promenade à partir de 18h au Grand Hôtel Bellevue

Points de vente: Müller Marketing & Druck AG, Gstaad, Tél. 033 748 88 74, produktion@mdruck.ch, www.gstaadshop.ch/shop

Scroll Motif Necklace (totally 258.56 cts in all)

Butterfly Watch Inspired by Graff’s classic Butterfly jewellery collection, this striking diamond timepiece is yet another shining example of Graff’s inimitable flair for jewellery design, combined with Swiss watchmaking know-how.

Nature’s delicate butterfly is immortalized within this luxurious timepiece by the highly sculptural arrangement of four white pear shape diamonds, complimented against a dazzling backdrop of individually selected gemstones – all intricately hand set by Graff’s skilled craftsmen to create a vivid three-dimensional effect.

This feminine diamond timepiece is available in striking gemstone versions including richly coloured sapphires, rubies and emeralds, set with complimentary coloured alligator straps.

GyroGraff A new addition to the MasterGraff collection, the horologically advanced and beautifully designed GyroGraff features both a stunning three-dimensional moon phase indicator and double-axis tourbillon. The innovative ‘gyrograph’ moon phase indicator charts the daily progression of moon phases and is cleverly encased within a multi-level dial, off-set at 8 o’clock in complement to the tourbillon at 5 o’clock and delicate 60 hour power reserve indicator at 11 o’clock.

The GyroGraff design retains the now iconic features of all Graff Luxury Watches; a faceted case reflecting the facets of a brilliant cut diamond, a triangle cut emerald at 12 o’clock and a diamond tip crown. On this model however, the new location of the crown creates an eye-catching feature, balancing with the design of the dial and presenting a modern and distinctive silhouette.

The GyroGraff is presented within a 48mm rose gold case with black crocodile strap and is limited to 10 pieces.

Technical specifications | Movement Quartz | Functions Hours and minutes | Diamonds 412 diamonds, 10,13 Carats | Strap black satin strap | Buckle White gold set with 22 diamonds

Technical specifications | Movement Manual winding | Functions Hours and minutes, Double axis tourbillon, Moon phase and power reserve indicator | Dial Black | Case 48mm rose gold | Buckle Exclusive Graff folding clasp | Strap Black alligator strap | Power Reserve 60 hours | Water resistance 3 ATM | Limited edition 10 pieces available in both white and rose gold

ADVERTORIAL

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 22

Three New Luxury Chalets in Lauenen

In the Spring of 2013, construction will begin on three luxury chalets in the charming and sought-after village of Lauenen.

These will be some of the last new constructions expected to be authorized as second homes. This offers a superb opportunity for investors or residents to purchase a large, luxury chalet in Lauenen with the permission to sell to foreigners and to residents as a holiday home.

The Developer’s plan was for:

“Well designed, well constructed, luxury chalets that offer a good investment and good value for money in this high-end market!”

And that is exactly what these chalets deliver.

Each chalet will be truly unique. One of the most important advantages is the flexibility in the building plans: if purchased early enough in the Winter period, an owner will be able to customize the number of bedrooms, the final fittings, equipment and interiors. Each offering an area between 570m2 and 600m2 in total, and between 400m2 and 430m2 of “actual living space”, these chalets offer a luxurious blank canvas to design your ideal home.

The current chalet plan offers the following: • The master bedroom suite is south-facing and occupies the entire top floor of the chalet. This luxurious domain includes a spacious bedroom with “his and hers” bathrooms and “his and hers” dressing areas/offices.

A large balcony leads off the front of the chalet, with two small balconies on each side. This sizeable space could also readily be converted to two large suites.

• A spacious and impressive south-facing living area is located on the first floor. An extensive kitchen on the east side of the chalet allows you to enjoy the morning sun, while a large dining area and generous lounge area with fireplace provide the ideal entertaining spaces. A separate TV room provides entertainment for cosy winter evenings. This floor is wrapped on both sides with a full width balcony to take advantage of the fresh air and alpine views.

• The ground floor contains three luxuriously large guest-suites, each with en-suite bathroom and comfortable dressing area. Each bedroom allows access to the terrace and lovely gardens. This large space could easily be realized as four guest bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms. Each chalet can also offer a staff apartment with kitchen, en-suite bathroom and separate entrance, if required.

• The extensive basement allows space for a wine cellar, fitness centre, wellness/sauna, ski room, laundry, and plenty of storage. Each chalet will include a lift to provide easy access to all four floors. Two underground car parking spaces are integrated in each chalet, with the option of an additional two secure parking spaces in a private garage.

This is an exceptional opportunity. The first of these chalets has been reserved and the remaining two are expected to go quickly.

The chalets are offered for sale exclusively by Lauenen Gstaad Immobilien GmbH, which has Offices in Gstaad and Lauenen. See www.lauenenchalets. com. The Architect for the project will be Hansruedi Marti Architekt FH / SIA NDS ETH. For more information, please contact David McCrimmon, Tel.: +41 (0)33 748 04 20, or email: david@gstaadimmobilien.com.

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 23

LOCAL NEWS

New hosts for Hotel-Restaurant Bären After two years of leading the Hotel-Restaurant Bären in Gsteig, Simon Hauswirth will handover to Nicolas and Denise Frautschi. The Scherz Hotel AG remains the leaseholder.

were a lot of warm encounters”, he says. He has experienced a lot of interesting and positive things, but it also had its ups and downs.

“The actual economic situation is not helping”, says Hauswirth.

Simon Hauswirth explains his decision with the need of a new challenge in his professional and private life. He had managed the restaurant for two years. “There

The successors are Nicolas and Denise Frautschi. The 28-year old local holds a degree with the hotel management school in Thun and worked as the manag-

ing director of the Cafe Pernet in Gstaad before.

After a short detour at the Griesalp, Frautschi comes back to his former employer, the Scherz Hotel AG, leaseholder of both restaurants. “The Bären has an eventful history. This is why continuity is important to us”, stresses Romauld Bour of the Scherz Hotel AG. “We know and appreci-

ate Nicolas Frautschi and we are happy that a local could take over the restaurant.”

The Cafe Pernet/Pub in Gstaad is also run by locals. Since November, Kevin Reichenbach from Feutersoey is leading it together with Jimmy Blaser.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY ANITA MOSER FROM AVS 13.11.2012

Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel: one year after renovation months from April to July were difficult”, the director says.

praised by the media and is mainly frequented by younger guests.

“The feedback from our regular guests is very positive”, says Walliser. “But the renovation of the interior is not always appreciated by some of the older guests.” He admits that some of the coziness has made room for a more modern style, which has gone down well with their younger clients.

“The budget for the current year will unfortunately not be achieved this year”, continues Walliser with regret. However, closure during the low season is not an option for him. “We have invested in marketing for the autumn season - and succeeded”. Walliser is happy about the upcoming bookings for the hotel. Experience of owners Heiner Lutz and Laurenz Schmid, has shown that it is always difficult during the year following a renovation.

In order to finance the renovation of SFr 40 million, nine apartments were built for sale of which eight have already been sold. Some of them will be rented out by the Ermitage and will be included in the hotel inventory this winter.

After nine months of renovation, the operations restarted on December 21 2011. “The winter season was good - mainly because of the 18 additional rooms - but the

The “One Million Stars” bar sparkles with one million Swarovski stones and in the evening the color of the lights changes. At the opening ceremony the bar was admired and

62 Of the 195 pre-renovation employees came back to work for the Ermitage and Uwe Seegert joined the hotel as the new head chef, previously from the Tschuggen Grand Hotel.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY BLANCA BURRI FROM AVS 23.11.2012

Picture: Blanca Burri

A year after the renovation and construction of the Ermitage Wellness & Spa Hotel in Schönried, Hotel Director Stefan Walliser provides us with an update of the first year as well as a peek into the future.

Your confidence is our highest commitment

Gstaad 033 748 77 88 · Feutersoey 033 755 19 51 www.raiffeisen.ch/saanenland

Hotel manager Stefan Walliser in front of one of the three chalets and outdoor pools of the Wellness & Spa-Hotels Ermitage.

ADVERTORIAL

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 24

Röthlisberger Interiors expands its range with Hästens beds

Hästens has its origins than Sweden, a country known for its lovely nature, its rich traditions and flair for design. For 160 years, the bed manufacturer has built beds that guarantee an unforgettable night’s sleep.

The finest products are processed with traditional craftsmanship and the handmade products from natural materials are sold in the world’s major cities and hotspots. Röthlisberger Interiors has succeeded in bringing the Swedish brand to Saanen after three years of negotiation.

As of now, the beds will be sold in the creative interiors store at Dorfstrasse. “We were looking for something unique to complement our extraordinary product range and

which met our demand for quality.

Hästens matches these criteria and I am excited to hear feedback from our customers”, commented Stefan Ryter.

Pictures: Mark Nolan

The Röthlisberger Interiors store has been fully renovated. As an extension of its product range, the renowned Hästens beds are now on display and available for sale. From now on, all customers will be welcome by appointment.

At Röthlisberger Interiors, different bed models from the traditional Swedish company can be tested in a comfortable and personal atmosphere. Different consistency and designs ensure that a deep and restful sleep can be offered to everyone.

A new direction 11 years ago, Sandra and Stefan Ryter took over the traditional interiors store which had been running for 4 generations. In the beginning, they continued to run the business in the traditional way, but also started to look at new ideas for the future and to evolve the business. The last step for now will be visible in midDecember. In order to focus completely on the customer’s needs and to optimize their service levels, the store has become a show room and

From left to right: Raphael Fernandez (floor layer), Isabelle Schläppi (Project leader), Florian, Sandra, Stefand and Salome Ryter, Christian Schopfer (Workshop manager), Sibylle Schopfer (Fabrics and more), Valerie Ludi (Trainee interior decoration), will be open by appointment only.

The customers will now be handled personally by the project leaders and managers. In the new show room, the competence of Röthlisberger Interiors is more noticeable.

In addition to the main business of curtains, carpets, parquet floors and the upholstery workshop, Röthlisberger Interiors has self-developed systems such as automatic insect screen systems with in-built sensors; silent roller and roman blinds; as well as awnings which are fully aligned to the building façade.

Complete projects Röthlisberger Interiors has been offering a complete renovation service for two years. Thanks to their knowledge and understanding of the latest technology, their love of meticulous handicraft and their willingness to explore new directions, customers get a complete concept that combines the finest materials, carpets and floors in a functional yet stylish way. In order to ensure a qualitative renovation of a customer’s home, the company always employs the same team, including an electrician,

a plumber, a carpenter, a painter and a structural engineer. To maintain the quality of the work, the level of incoming orders is limited.

Next to quality, the company focuses on price stability. There are no hidden surcharges, unless additional work is requested.

Haberdashery / Patchwork fabric The haberdashery and patchwork fabric section is run by Sibylle Schopfer, who has been working for Röthlisberger Interiors for 14 years. The customers will find a great choice of products in the lower ground floor.

Her opening hours are Thursday 18.00 – 20.00 and Friday 9.00 -11.00.

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 25

Since the beginning of November, Conrado Tomasini has taken over the management of the restaurant Victoria in Gstaad. Heinz Oehrli remains the owner and keeps running the hotel with his family.

Conrado Tomasini has been working for 18 years in the Restaurant Bar Rialto. Over a year ago, Heinz Oehrli asked him if he would be interested to take over the restaurant part of the Sporthotel Victoria. “It is a big honor that Heinz Oehrli has confidence in me”, he says. Conrado Tomasini started to work in the restaurant a year ago as an employee in order to become familiar with the work and the staff.

“It is important to me that the

Victoria stays a restaurant for everybody in the center of Gstaad”, Tomasini says. “It should still be a place to meet for the locals, where dishes are served at a reasonable price. Some regular guests, frequenting the Victoria for 45 years, are eating lunch here every day.

Such guests are not only guests, they become friends.” The Victoria will still serve meat dishes, pizza, pasta and brasserie-style dishes such as calf’s head or tripe. The dining room is currently extended with 24 seating places. The new manager will manage the present employees.

The hotel will remain in the hands of the family Oehrli. The cooperation between the restaurant and hotel is very close; the guest does not feel the change of leadership.

Picture: zvg

New General Manager for Restaurant Victoria

Conrado Tomasini.

Breakfast and half-board is served by the restaurant. Nadine Oehrli remains supporting her father Heinz Oehrli with the 34 hotel rooms. The house was built in 1905, and Emma and Arthur Oehrli-Lauener bought it 60 years ago. Heinz Oehrli, 70 years old, took over the hotel in 1976 from his parents.

The big change from earlier days to nowadays is the behavior of guests.

“In the past, we had difficulty to close the restaurant before midnight - today we have to be happy if guests are still around at 22h00”, says Oehrli. Even though the salaries and other costs rose in the last decades, it was always important for Heinz to keep the prices reasonable - a message that he has also made clear to Tomasini.

Heinz Oehrli is looking forward to have more time to watch icehockey games, cycling or travelling.

When asked if one of his children would take over the hotel one day, he clearly points out that this is still an open question.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY BLANCA BURRI FROM THE AVS 06.11.2012

ADVERTORIAL

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 26

Pictures: Mark Nolan

Re-opening of Schuhhaus Romang in Gstaad facilities for the employees such as wardrobe and recreation room with kitchen, where improved.

Have you also changed the visual identity?

Yes. Now, the future costumer will recognize the origin and tradition of the Schuhhaus Romang with the new logo.

What are the next highlights at Schuhhaus Romang?

Next year, we will celebrate 100 years of our family runned business in Gstaad. In the meantime, we really look forward to welcome our customers in our new building.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE PUBLIREPORTAGE FROM AVS 23.11.2012

The newly designed and rebuilt Schuhhaus Romang in Gstaad.

On Friday December 7 2012, the Schuhhaus Romang re-opened its doors. Christoph Romang, owner and manager, is excited.

What are you looking forward to the most?

In general, it is always amazing to move into a new building with a fresh atmosphere. But mostly I am looking forward to the larger size of the shop in order to present our products.

What is the special feature of the new shop?

It is clearly the bright and open design. We tried to combine wood and modern materials to get a rustic coziness and modern design. Fur-

thermore, the location has special interior parts: a modern lightning concept, an entrance without steps, a special carpet and an amazing counter. We are sure that our customers will feel comfortable.

What are the advantages of the new building?

For us it is for sure the larger premises, which will make our daily business easier. In the cellar, we have installed a new rolling storage system, which can store up to 10’000 shoes. Furthermore, the

Christoph Romang, owner and manager.

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 27

ADVERTORIAL / LOCAL NEWS

Edelweiss Sport Edelweiss Sport in Gstaad specializes in equipment for the ski touring enthusiast. Their competent and expert team will help you find the right ski equipment for your off-piste adventures.

The two leaders this winter are Apparel and The Eiger Extreme collection from Mammut, and skis from Movement The Freeski Company.

Mammut aims to offer customers products that meet the very highest standards of quality, innovation and functionality. The extensive knowledge and years of experience allow Mammut to be one of the leading clothing ranges for alpine engineering.

Edelweiss Sport is also privileged to be one of the few mountain sport specialists chosen to represent The Eiger Extreme collection. This new

Swiss expert line is created for optimal functionality and flawless quality, offering the perfect combination of heat performance, functionality and performance/volume/ weight ratio! Tailored to the temperature zones in the different areas of the body and complete with various adjustment options for a perfect fit - a must for cold days!

Movement The Freeski Company brings high performance, solid and user-friendly skis to be used in a variety of conditions. These lightweight Movement skis are made of pure wood cores and a very careful selection of construction materials.

Always looking for innovations with passion, Movement keeps its image of high Swiss quality products.

Gusti and Uschi Oehrli dressed in Mammut Eiger Extreme clothing.

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Tried, tested and approved … amazing !

The Hotel Rougemont is currently undergoing renovation including an extension. The opening of the hotel is planned to be at the end of 2013.

Mario Julen and Alexander van Rijsbergen who founded the Andresen Hotels SA in 1995 bought the Hotel Rougemont a year ago. The former owner, family Cathiard, had already started with the renovation when they decided to sell it.

The former Hotel Rougemont is now destined to become the Boutique Hotel de Rougemont. Until now, the two existing buildings have been renovated and the building of two new houses has just be-

gun. During the winter, the interior constructions will take place in the two original houses. In spring the new buildings will be finished and in summer the final interior constructions are planned. Mario Julen and Alexander van Rijsbergen have invested around SFr 45 to SFr 50 million.

“We want to address guests of the upper segment,” says Vice Director van Rijsbergen. The businessman wishes to target sporty guests that like to spend time in nature and guests holding leading positions who are willing to pay the price for boutique hotels. It should be for those who want to spend time in Rougemont and not only want to

Picture: zvg

Construction of boutique hotel in Rougemont

An image of the new Boutique Hotel Rougemont. The opening is planned for December 2013. spend their holidays in any hotel. Alexander van Rijsbergen is not afraid of the economic crises, as boutique hotels in general are booming. Such hotels have a standard like a 5 star hotel, but are smaller. The owners do not yet want to make official who will be leading the hotel.

Amongst the 33 rooms, 5 apartments with hotel service are built.

It is important for the investors to be able to sell the apartments to people that are frequent guests in Rougemont. According to the official website, 4 apartments have been sold already. Some of the owners already live in Rougemont and were looking for such a concept with hotel service.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE BY BLANCA BURRI AVS 23.11.2012

LOCAL NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 28

Objections against construction of new Post Office

The objection period against the construction of a new Post Office in Gstaad (including the actual Post Office, a shop and 4 apartments) ended in August.

Negotiations with the eight objections are ongoing. The biggest issue is location of the delivery center. The construction will probably only start in 2 to 4 years’ time due to objections.

The post area near the station in Gstaad belongs to the Swiss Post.

At this location, the construction of a new Post Office with a shop, 4 apartments and 18 private parking slots is planned. “We have received eight objections against the project”, informed Daniel Matti from Chaletbau Matti. Together with Bach Immobilien and Bruno Marazzi & Co Immobilien, the partnership “Überbauung Post Gstaad” was founded, which is responsible

for planning and executing the construction. The project is planned by the architects Chaletbau Matti, and Marazzi & Paul Architects.

In future, the Swiss Post will rent out the premises and plans to sell the area. “Swiss Post is principally investing in their locations, but as it will not only be used for our operations, we are stepping back as investors and would like to rent the necessary locations”, explained Erich Schmid, Head of East Communication of Swiss Post.

The adaptation of building regulations in the heart of the village has also influenced this project. Because the maximum ridge height was reduced by 2 meters, and the distance between buildings has increased to 3 meters, the initial project has had to be reduced by a third. Originally, the project had planned to include the buildings of

Lorenz Bach, Hermenjat and Jutzeler.

The current project includes two planned basements, with 18 parking slots for the employees of the Post Office as well as for the apartments. Additionally, worker cloakrooms and adjoining rooms for the Post Office are planned. On the west side of the building (facing Landi), a modern Post Office with a bigger customer service area will be built, including a post box and a cash machine. On the other side (facing Bernerhof), a retail space is planned, but the usage is still under discussion.

Currently, the delivery center in Gstaad is located at the Post Office. With the new construction, deliveries would be made on the northwest side of the building. This would increase lorry traffic and is

the main cause of neighbors’ objections. “Nowadays, we could separate the delivery center from the actual Post Office, but we are not sure if another location can be found”, says Daniel Matti. The Swiss Post could also not give any information about potential locations.

“It is difficult to build in a village center, but we have experience in this and are aware that the construction will only start in two to four years’ time”, says Matti. “The Swiss Post would value the renovation, as the current location was built in the 1960s and no longer fits our requirements”, says Erich Schmid. He stressed that during construction, Swiss Post guarantees that the postal service will continue to operate as per normal.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY BLANCA BURRI AVS 30.11.2012

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 29

Events Calendar ■ TUESDAY, DECEMBER 11 – SUNDAY,

JANUARY 6, 2013 Experience Christmas magic in the Swiss handicraft. Venue: Saanen museum. Free entry to the museum during the exposition.

Closed on Sundays. For more info contact +41 (0)33 744 13 73.

■ SATURDAY, DECEMBER 15 2012– SUNDAY, MARCH 13 2013 14h00-17h00: Exhibition of ceramics

by Arnold Annen. Venue: Museum der Landschaft Saanen. For more info contact +41 (0)33 744 79 88.

■ FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21 & 28 11h00-18h00: Winter market in Gstaad. A little winter market on the Kapälliplatz with lots of home-made products. For more information contact +41 (0)33 744 78 83.

■ SATURDAY, DECEMBER 22 16h00-21h00: Christmas market in Saanen. Something for everyone – beautiful gifts, eats and treats! Call +41 (0)33 748 81 60 for more info.

Friday December 14 2012 until Friday January 25 2013

■ WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 26 17h00-19h00: Exhibition of pictures and vernissage with Heike Pietschke. Venue: “Sammy’s” Hotel Alpenrose. For more info, contact +41 (0)33 748 91 91.

■ THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, JANUARY 3, 10, 17, 24 Fondue Party in the evening in Saanenmöser. Every Thursday evening, between Christmas and middle of April ! Followed by a torchlight descent with guide. By registration only. Prices for fondue party: Adults SFr 69, children up to 16 years SFr 39. Venue: Igludorf at Bergstation Saanerslochgrat.

■ THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27, 28 & 29 08h10-16h10: Driving training on ice and snow. Training to improve driving skills in difficult conditions. Venue: Saanen airport. Rate: SFr 270 – SFr 320. Reservation possible.

Contact +41 (0)31 311 38 13.

■ THURSDAY, DECEMBER 27 – SUNDAY,

■ WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 26 15h30-16h00: Concert of the Posaunenchor Gstaad. Venue: Kapälliplatz, Promenade Gstaad. Weather permitting. Phone +41 (0)33 744 63 07 for more information.

JANUARY 6 2013 7th New Year Music Festival GstaadSaanenland. A mix of genres and young talent together with established maestros in Gstaad, Lauenen and Rougemont. Venue: different localities. For more info: www.nymf. ch or contact +41 (0)21 864 31 70.

■ WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 26, JANU-

■ SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30

ARY 2, 9, 16 & 23, 2013 19h00-21h30: Night Skiing on the Wispile. Costs: Adults SFr 10, Children (19972003) SFr 5. Children under 9 years – free.

Season and day ski passes are not valid.

Subject to change due to weather conditions.

Venue: Skilift Rütti and Zückerli, Gsteigstrasse.

Contact +41 (0)33 748 87 37 for more info or mountainrides@gstaad.ch

■ WEDNESDAY DECEMBER 26 & THURSDAY 27 17h00: “Altjahrskonzerte” in Saanen with Orchestra degli Amici & Michael S. Bach.

Concertmaster Ilona Naumova, Soloist Reto Reichenbach.Venue: Mauritius church Saanen.

Rate: SFr 20-80. Children – free. Reservation possible. Ticket sales are in the tourist office in Gstaad and Saanen. Contact +41 (0)33 748 81 82 for more info or www.kultursaanen.ch

17h15: Zither concert with Werner Frey.

Venue: Kapelle, Promenade Gstaad. Free entry – collection.

■ MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 19h00-02:00: New Year’s Eve on the Rellerli, Schönried with DJ Dany. Celebrate New Year on the Rellerli is a unique experience with a wonderful menu on reservation. Venue: Berghaus Rellerli. Rate SFr 125. Reservation possible, contact +41 (0)33 748 87 22.

■ MONDAY, DECEMBER 31 19h00-02:00: Silvester on top of the Eggli with DJ Jöri ! Celebrate in the Bergrestaurant Eggli with a wonderful menu on reservation.

Rate: 150. Reservation obligatory ! Call +41 (0)33 748 96 12.

■ SATURDAY, JANUARY 5 2013 09h30: BOSV championship Slalom. Ski Alpin Slalom for women & men. Venue: Racing Center Huble, Gstaad. Free entry. For more information : www.scgstaad.ch or contact +41 (0)33 744 42 13.

■ FRIDAY, JANUARY 18 – WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2013 Exhibition of painting in the “Heimatwerk” – pictures of the Saanenland painted by Walter Dick. Vernissage 18.01.2013 at 17h00. Venue: Heimatwerk, Glasbodenraum Saanen. For more info, contact +41 (0)33 744 13 73.

19h00-01:30: New Year’s Eve on the Horneggli, Schönried. Celebrate New Year on the Horneggli with fireworks at midnight.

Venue: Berghaus Horneggli. Rate SFr 125.

Reservation possible, contact +41 (0)33 744 25 57.

ROTARY CLUB GSTAAD-SAANENLAND Meetings every Monday 12h00 Palace Hotel Gstaad (033 / 748 50 00), President: Rot. Christian Sieber (026 / 924 45 25) Program: Rot. Pascal Rey (026 / 925 10 00)

Meetings normally each first and third week of the month on Thursdays, either at 12h00 a.m. for lunch or at 7h00 p.m. for dinner. Meetings in Wellness & Spa-Hotel Ermitage-Golf, Schönried, Tel. 033 748 60 60. For details and program contact Jürg Müller, president, 033 744 54 40, jmtreuhand@bluewin.ch, https://gstaad-saanenland.lionsclub.ch

MontescalSuisse

led by Rev. Paul Holley who is the Chaplain of St. Peter’s Anglican English-speaking Church in Château-d’Oex. Details from: Rev. Paul Holley 079 367 66 57 or paul.holley@mac.com.

16 December 2012, 17h30 Evening Worship. Rev. Paul Holley 23 December 2012 No Service 24 December 2012, 17h30 Christmas Eve Family Carol Service with candlelight followed by short Service of Holy Communion. Rev. Paul Holley 25 December 2012 No Service on Christmas Day 30 December 2012, 17h30

Evening Prayer. Rev. Clive Atkinson 13 January 2013, 17h30 Holy Communion. Rev. Paul Holley 20 January 2013, 17h30 Evening Prayer. Rev. Ken Kvistad www.allsaints.ch/chateaudoex

■ IMPORTANT NUMBERS Ambulance 144, Police 117 Police office 033 356 84 31 Fire-brigade 118 Saanen Hospital 033 748 02 00 Château-d‘Oex Hospital 026 923 43 43 Car accident service 033 744 88 80 Veterinary 033 744 35 31 / 033 744 06 61 Medical emergency 0900 57 67 47 Dental emergency 033 748 02 00

■ CHURCH SERVICES St Peter’s English-Speaking Anglican Church, Château-d’Oex Following an interval of several years, a Family Christmas Carol Service will be held

Send your classifieds to:

• Short delivery time

lish and commence at 5.30 p.m. It will be

LIONS CLUB GSTAAD-SAANENLAND

Tel. 041 588 02 41

• Slim Line rail

23rd December. The Service will be in Eng-

Contact: paul.holley@anglicanhealth.org

Classifieds • Best quality and service

at St. Niklaus Chapel in Gstaad on Sunday

Evening Worship. Rev. Paul Holley 6 January 2013, 17h30

■ MONDAY, DECEMBER 31

CHALET Stairlifts

www.monte-escaliers.ch

EVENTS

Email: info@gstaadlife.ch Post: Anzeiger von Saanen PO Box 201 3780 Gstaad

For additional useful numbers please visit www.gstaadlife.ch/usefulnumbers For the latest local weather forecast visit www.gstaadlife.com/weather

EDIBLE CURRENCY? Make your Swiss home one of the safest places on earth. We offer high tech freeze dried gourmet meals packaged for long term storage with NO preservatives.

25 year shelf life. 3 month supply for 4 people costs slightly more than 5 ounces of gold and fits in 1 cubic meter of space. Preferred by top Swiss athletes. Available from our warehouse in Interlaken or by post. www.daseinsystems.com / laine.mike@gmail.com

LOCAL COLUMN NEWS

Friday 14 December 2012 Page 30

Happy Birthday, Jesus Christ!

BY MANDOLYNA THEODORACOPULOS

To Isaac Newton, Humphrey Bogart, Louise Bourgeois, Jimmy Buffett, Conrad Hilton, Justin Trudeau, Ingrid Betancourt, Sissy Spacek, Noel Redding, Anwar Sadat, Jesus Christ, and many more—I wish you a Happy Birthday! Or Merry Christmas, if you prefer.

For some, birthdays bring us closer to death, and so we dread the day each year lest we be reminded of life’s limitations. For others, the day signifies an accomplishment rather than a loss, the attainment of experience, and a day to reflect on one’s blessings.

Funny thing is, we actually have no idea when Christ came into this world. Neither the date nor the year is certain, but it doesn’t matter.

Christians celebrate Christ’s birth and the close of Advent on December 25th. Many non-Christians celebrate the date, too, so it seems an auspicious day.

Birthdays have varied significance in different parts of the world and among different religious groups.

They often mark a particular rite of passage, with the young especially.

The Jewish Bar Mitzvah tradition is celebrated around a boy’s 13th birthday. For many cultures, 18th birthdays mark the onset of adulthood.

For those who dislike Christmas and hate birthdays, I sincerely hope you are not among those born on the 359th day of the year, though you should consider yourselves lucky to have something in common with so many noteworthy individuals.

I was born on November 30th – St. Andrew’s Day, a distinction that has

The Romans celebrated birthdays with decadent parties. In contrast, Jehovah’s Witnesses do not celebrate birthdays at all, believing they are portrayed negatively in the Bible and have superstitious affiliations. Some even consider celebrating a birthday to be sinful, but only among a few Islamic clerics.

Hating one’s birthday is a virtual sin in my book, if for no other reason than it implies ingratitude toward one’s parents and a level of selfloathing that people should avoid.

Argue as you might that celebrating oneself is egotistical and unnecessarily indulgent, a certain amount of self-respect is required of every complete individual. A healthy acknowledgement of your existence one day a year is not unnecessarily self-indulgent but appropriately reverential.

I love my birthday. Every November 1st I begin to reflect on the year that has passed, my failings and accomplishments, and my hopes for the coming year. By my actual birthday on the last day of the month I have usually taken a full mental inventory of what I am proud of and what my new goals entail. It is an important time of year for me and I am grateful for it.

Celebrating with friends and family is my reward.

Haters be damned! Just because you don’t like Christmas or your birthday doesn’t mean you have to be vocal about it. No one is dying to spend money on your gift anyway, so keep quiet and let the day pass into obscurity. Blabbing and com-

plaining only brings attention that is supposedly unwanted, so do us all a favor and hush.

Facebook has added a whole new dimension to birthdays, especially for birthday lovers. Now one gets dozens of birthday wishes, including ones from long-lost friends. It can make one feel deeply loved, which is never a bad thing. Thanks to Facebook, gone are the days where you have to remember the birth dates of everyone in your life and deal with the complaints when you fail to remember them.

Birthdays can seem trivial, especially on Facebook where you’re reminded every day of the year that someone is special. But in the long run, birthdays are important because they mark the stages of our lives. They remind us of where we came from and where we are headed. Birthdays, like other historical dates, give us a sense of the passage of time. One day our lives will end; in the meantime we should be reminded of our existence and that it has meaning. Happy Birthday, Jesus Christ, and Merry Christmas to all!

Picture: gb-photodesign.de / photocase.com

always made me proud. I share my birthday with Mark Twain, Billy Idol, Andrea Palladio, Jonathan Swift, Winston Churchill, Gordon Parks, and Abbie Hoffman. Oscar Wilde died on St. Andrew’s Day in 1900.

Are all the components of your portfolio still suited to one another?

Arrange a consultation now.

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