GstaadLife, 20.2.15

G R A N D H O T E L PA R K · 2 9 W I S P I L E N S T R A S S E · C H 3 7 8 0 · T H E A L P I N A G S TA A D · 2 3 A L P I N A S T R A S S E · C H 3 7 8 0 ·

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W W W. G R A F F D I A M O N D S . C O M

February 20, 2015 - Issue 2 – CHF 3.50 excl VAT

SPA WARS

All's Wellness that Ends Wellness

FERGIE GOES GSTAAD

Sarah, Duchess of York Inspires at IID Gala

JAN BRAND & LI CHUN LEI

There's No Business Like Snow Business

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Photo: Leigh Prather – Fotolia

Gstaad's Crystal Ball 2015

They say the only certainties in life are death and taxes. Looking back on the winter season so far, this appears to be true. Even the most dependable elements of the season–good or bad–have proved unpredictable this year.

Snow?

None of the white stuff fell until December 26. See our Local News page for more information on how this will affect BDG revenues. Hint: It won’t increase them.

More bittersweet snow-related news can be found in Mandolyna Theodoracopulos’s column on the Eagle Club's Pino. After more than 40 years of service, the ever-present face of the exclusive ski club will move on to greener pastures.

One happy note: There was more schussing love for the community from Lovell Camps, who organised a children’s ski race called the Sarina Mini Cup. The race was such a success that it will become an annual event.

Tourism?

While the holiday period was exceptionally busy, local business owners say January was eerily quiet. Fortunately, so far February hasn’t disappointed, with the big Rosey alumni weekend filling the region’s hotels. Januaria Piromallo attended the "100th Winter in Gstaad" gala,

during which Director Philippe Gudin and his wife Anne officially retired, passing management of the world-famous boarding school over to son Christophe.

Sometimes the unknown is a good thing.

That’s definitely the case with our Profile interview of Li Chun Lei, the Chinese ski instructor back in the Saanenland for a second winter. In addition to the training he’s receiving here from ski school director Jan Brand, Li Chun Lei is acting as an ambassador for the region and opening new markets for tourist dollars from China. With his many followers on social media, the enthusiastic skier is helping to spread his love for Gstaad worldwide.

Famous Faces?

Known as a peaceful haven for the world’s elite, the Saanenland is no stranger to the faces that grace the pages of many magazines. This year, charitable organisation Innocence in Danger welcomed Sarah, Duchess of York, to their fundraising gala.

Her message of hope and service proved truly inspiring, leaving guests with fire, and not just foie gras, in their bellies.

and rolled and squeezed at four of the region’s loveliest wellness centres. The result? GSTAADLIFE’S Saanenland Spa Guide, a look into some of the best treatments available. The top honour goes to the Palace’s Jardin des Monts energising signature massage, which features a wooden roller to work tired and sore muscles into shape again. Coming in second with a special mention for their series of Roman-style saunas and hammams is Le Grand Bellevue. Here you can unwind in the glow of a pink Himalayan salt stone or brave the freezing cold ice grotto, all while enjoying the beautiful and unique mosaic tile walls.

The season doesn’t officially end until just after Easter, but this is the last winter 2015 edition of GSTAADLIFE. We’ll continue to post articles and updates on our website at www.gstaadlife.com, and we invite you to participate with your own commentary.

If I had a crystal ball, would I dare ask to see just what the future holds for Gstaad?

I think not. But let’s hope it involves another massage.

Best regards,

Massages?

In this issue, I was poked and prodded

Alexis Munier Editor in Chief

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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Greece: Syriza's victory worries Europe.

DANO

Local Cartoonist Makes International Waves Talented GSTAADLIFE artist finishes second season with the magazine.

BY ALEXIS MUNIER

Born in Lausanne in 1965, DANO was nursed by the great French-Belgian cartoonists of his generation like Franquin, Gotlib, Reiser, and Moebius.

After completing studies to be a teacher, DANO worked in several schools in Canton Vaud, before heading out on a world tour. He began he career as a cartoonist in Sydney, Australia and for the next decade continued his journey as a global nomad.

From Australia and Asia and Europe and the Americas, DANO's skill as a caricature

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artist only improved over the years. Completely self-taught, he acquired rudimentary techniques and let his travels infuse his style with creativity and imagination.

shapes his cartoons and designs. DANO lives and works on the Swiss Riviera, near Montreux.

Once his itch for travel had been scratched, DANO returned to Switzerland. It was then that DANO's work began to catch the eye of local publications, including GSTAADLIFE, Le Regional, and L'Hebdo, amongst others. He enjoys working in the events world as well, providing cartoons and caricatures at parties, seminars, conferences and team-building events.

Very involved in politics and current affairs, DANO keeps abreast of the news that

CARTOON // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

DANO • www.dano-cartoon.com Cartoons for Newspapers, Parties, Events

Photo: zVg

Magazine

3 Letter from the Editor by Alexis Munier 4 Cartoon by DANO 21 Last Word by Mandolyna Theodoracopulos 22 Events Calendar

Photo: zVg

Photo: Raphael Faux

Local News

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7 Peter Kuntze Retires from GSTAAADLIFE 7 Ebnitmatte Vote 7 Zweisimmen Hospital Closes Maternity Ward 7 BDG Expects 20 % Loss in Turnover

Gstaad Living

9 Heimatwerk in Saanen 11 Rosey Students Try Their Hand at GSTAADLIFE 13 Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad Final Concert 13 Lovell Camps Introduces Annual Sarina Mini Cup 17 Innocence in Danger Gala Draws Sarah, Duchess of York

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Profile

14 Jan Brand & Li Chun Lei – Ski Instructors

Lifestyle

19 Rosey Celebrates 100 Winter in the Saanenland 20 Saanenland Spa Guide

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Cover Photo: Alexis Munier www.gstaadlife.com

at www.gstaadlife.com

Twitter: @GSTAADLIFE // Facebook: Gstaad Life // Youtube: GstaadLife GstaadLIFE, Anzeiger von Saanen, Kirchstrasse 6, P.O. Box 201, 3780 Gstaad, Phone: 033 748 88 74, Fax: 033 748 88 84, info@gstaadlife.ch, www.gstaadlife.com, www.gstaadlife.ch // Management Board: Frank Müller // Publisher: Frank Müller, frank.mueller@gstaadlife.ch // Editor in Chief: Alexis Munier // Contributors: Januaria Piromallo, Mandolyna Theodoracopulos // Layout: Epu Shaha // Advertising: Peter Kuntze-Schneider, peter.kuntze@gstaadlife.ch, Phone: 033 744 46 64 // Subscriptions: Flurina Mutzner, flurina.mutzner@mdruck.ch, Phone: 033 748 88 74

CONTENTS // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 1 // JANUARY 30, 2015

Advertising Manager

BY GSTAADLIFE

Peter Kuntze, the longest-serving partner of the magazine, will retire at the end of the Winter 2015 season.

For over a decade, Peter was responsible for

Photo: zVg

Peter Kuntze Bids Farewell to GSTAADLIFE advertising sales and established many long-term collaborations with local and international businesses. He enjoyed working for GSTAADLIFE, and brought his trademark enthusiasm to many projects, playing a key role in the magazine’s various incarnations, specifically its 2013 re-design. The GSTAADLIFE team would

like to thank Peter for the energy and effort he put into the magazine over the years, and wish him the very best upon his well-deserved retirement. Müller Medien AG collaborators Eliane Behrend and Selina Juch will take over advertising sales.

The pair welcomes your advertising inquiries at eliane.behrend@mmedien.ch.

'No' Vote at Municipal Assembly Ebnitmatte Project Stalls Indefinitely

Gstaad’s Ebnitmatte area was designated a locals-only zone several years ago, and the construction of lower-cost homes was envisaged. But without approval from the Municipal Assembly of Saanen, the project is now on hold for the unforeseeable future.

for re-zoning in March 2011. Its central location is just five minutes by foot from Migros and the Promenade. Voters approved the municipality’s acquisition of the CHF 3.6 million property back in September of that same year, and plans to build seven multi-family homes were discussed if sufficient demand arose.

BY GSTAADLIFE

Previously classified as agricultural land, the Ebnit parcel (also known as Zingrematte) was approved by voters

However, the dream of home ownership in the valley by 70 interested parties was deferred by a no vote on the floor of the

Municipal Assembly of Saanen. The measure, which would have required a CHF 4.9 million investment loan for the construction of the dwellings, was rejected 75 to 35. Several voters expressed the belief that there are already enough first-time homes for locals on the market since the implementation of the Second Home Initiative.

The Initiative, approved in 2014, curtails the approval of holiday homes in all of Switzerland. This leaves many more properties available for locals only.

Baby on the Way, Literally Minus 20 % Zweisimmen Hospital Closes Maternity Unit

Beginning this spring, the Saanenland will see fewer births as expecting mothers have no choice but to make the long trip to a central hospital in Thun.

BY GSTAADLIFE

The issue of medical care has been a hot topic for the region since Saanen Hospital in the area closed its doors in November 2012. Since that time, local residents have had no choice but to make the 20-minute drive to the hospital in Zweisimmen.

Now, Zweisimmen Hospital has made several changes to its services, the most important being the closure of its maternity unit. From April 1, 2015 onward, pregnant women will have to make the trip to Thun to give birth. Unfortunately,

the trip from the furthest regions of the Saanenland, Lauenen and Gsteig, for example, can take up to one and a half hours–which in some cases, might lead to women giving birth unsafely along the journey.

Attempts to create a medical practice in the former Saanen Hospital building– which would house several local doctors with varying specialties–are already underway, but no terms have been decided as of yet. This future practice would not provide emergency care, but rather simply gather individual practitioners under one common roof.

For an in-depth article on health care in the Saanenland, please see GSTAADLIFE’s summer issues.

BDG Suffers Losses

Bergbahnen Destination Gstaad. the local mountain railways company, has 20 % less turnover

BY GSTAADLIFE

The company suffered losses before Christmas due to lack of snow. While snow finally came December 26 and 27, temperatures warmed for the next few weeks, before a cold spell and significant snow fell again.

The troubled company has been operating at a loss for several years and is facing restructuration and reorganisation. Already, several installations and lifts have been closed due to budget cuts.

With current good snow conditions and the ski schools with record bookings, the season may, however, wind up ending on a high note.

LOCAL NEWS // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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Photo: zVg

Local Handicrafts

Saanen's Heimatwerk Keeps Tradition Alive Think you can’t find a reasonably priced gift or souvenir in the Saanenland? Think again. Heimatwerk Saanen is the place to go for beautiful handcrafted goods that support local workers and keep traditional Swiss culture alive.

committee president Lisette Chevalier.

“The committee members are volunteer, and we have four paid employees on staff who work in the shop.”

Heimatwerk Saanen (Saanen Crafts Association) was founded in 1928 by Ms Pfarrer Maria Lauterburg. It originally served to offer Alpine farmers a chance to keep busy and earn a living during the harsh winter months. During this time, men and women wove rugs and textiles, knitted, and sewed.

Now that the von Siebenthal Cookshop in Gstaad has closed its doors, the Heimatwerk is one of the only remaining places to buy local Saanen handmade pottery. While much of the goods come from the Bernese Oberland, other items come from farther afield, such glass items from other cantons in Switzerland.

Yet, nearly every piece is fully handmade here in Switzerland, attesting to the authenticity and quality present.

Shortly afterward, the Heimatwerk was turned into a non-profit organisation. Today however, it is a proper business, and must find ways to stay afloat even in tough times.

To keep the Heimatwerk alive, they depend on selling the traditional wares that represent a key part of local culture.

Goats, Gadgets & More From Saanen goat fondue sets to cowthemed mugs and plates, there is a range of ceramics to ensure you’ve selected the correct souvenir amongst a wide selection of contemporary handicrafts.

A Volunteer Affair “We are all passionate about keeping tradition alive here in Saanen,” says

Just behind the shop lies the weaving workshop, where a specialist works the three looms available for rug-making.

Customers can order bespoke pieces,

BY ALEXIS MUNIER

selecting the fabric themselves amongst a plethora of choices or donating their own.

“All our rugs are woven using old linens and textiles,” explains Ms Chevalier. “We use anything and everything that’s donated to us–antique tablecloths from the early 1900’s, linens, and even funky dresses from the 1960’s and are cut into strips and used to make our colourful rugs, tablecloths, napkins, cushions, and scarves.”

Heimatwerk as Art Gallery In addition to the weaving facilities and shop, the Heimatwerk has renovated a beautiful historic room which is used for temporary exhibitions. Currently, the room boasts a selection of handcarved sledges by two local woodworkers. Christian Reichenbach, whose family has been making sledges for generations, has several historic models on display, including a sledge from the late 1800’s. The younger generation continues to make sledges by hand, which is evident in the clean, modern lines of Thomas Sumi's aerodynamic sledges. The exhibition runs until February 28. For more details see www.heimatwerk-saanen.ch.

GSTAAD LIVING // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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DEPUTY GENERAL MANAGER TOBIA CIARULLI Originally hailing from Abruzzo, Italy, Tobia graduated from culinary school in 1979. He then set off on a grand adventure, working in Germany and Holland before arriving in Switzerland. After stints in Ticino, Valais, and Graubünden, Tobia settled in Gstaad at the Hotel Olden. Working his way up from Chef, he was dedicated to continuing his education during the off-seasons, and Tobia added diplomas for Certified Executive Chef and WACS Juryseminar along his professional journey.

Tobia is personally responsible for creating some of the Olden’s signature dishes– Spaghetti Sciué Sciué, for example. In Neapolitan dialect sciué sciué means “made to order”. This beloved pasta dish is prepared individually, with the sauce cooked just before serving. Traditionally, it was the meal of the chefs themselves, as it was quick to make and deliciously simple. The legendary Milanese was also added to the menu by Tobia; as the house specialty, the Olden can serve up more than 60 plates of this dish during one lunch.

But it’s not just Tobia’s excellent skills that make him a master chef, his love of pedagogy and passing his knowledge down to the next generation have led him to participate in various educational programs around the world. This is evident in his serving as CEO of the Italian Chefs Organisation, and his teaching and judging positions at the renown Los Angeles Culinary Institute, Culinary World Cup Expogast, Swiss Culinary Cup, and European Final Chef en Or, amongst others.

Now, after two decades of service, Tobia will retire at the end of the Winter 2015 season. After raising a family and devoting years to his relationship with the Hotel Olden, he plans to spend the next six months on sabbatical. Passionate about motorcycles, Tobia will make adventure his keyword, and take several important trips. If all goes according to plan, friend and colleague Ermes Elsener may just join him on a road trip across mainland Asia, all the way to China.

All of us at the Hotel Olden thank Tobia for his years of service, and wish him the very best for his exciting new future.

Where tradition begins Hotel Olden ll Promenade 35 ll CH-3780 Gstaad P +41 33 748 49 50 ll F +41 33 748 49 59 info@hotelolden.com ll www.hotelolden.com

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

Journalists for a Day

Le Rosey Students Try Their Hand at GSTAADLIFE

BY LE ROSEY, MS JOANNAH SPENCER-PRICE'S CLASS

After being in Gstaad now for a few weeks, I have finally adapted to the environment, which is totally different from where I come from, Hong Kong. Hong Kong is always so noisy because there are people and cars everywhere. Here in Gstaad it is so quiet and calm wherever I go. Additionally, there are fewer cars, so there seems to be no air pollution and I can always breathe fresh air. In my city, the roads are flooded with cars, polluting the atmosphere and honking noises fill people’s ears. In Gstaad, it is so beautiful with the snow everywhere. Hong Kong is so hot, even in Winter, we don’t really get Seasons like here. Even though I love it here, I still miss my parents in Hong Kong!

I didn’t board in Hong Kong, I love boarding at Rosey because you meet so many people from different countries.

–Lucas Gstaad is also different from my home city of St Petersburg, Russia. There aren’t the dangers here, which I face at home, it is so safe and calm, fresh and clean. If you try to open a window in St Petersburg, you are going to have to get used to the contrast with Gstaad! Gstaad is a beautiful, peaceful place with such an amazing landscape. At my school in Russia it is a day school, so I didn’t have the opportunity to board. There are so many sports and extra activities that I can do here, I love it!

–Sofia I live and come from China. But I remember the day I arrived and the first difference I realized was the environment. As you might know, Beijng is a very crowded city, and the air is very polluted. It’s not even possible to see the clouds in the grey “sad” sky. It is really a twenty four hour city! In Gstaad, it’s totally the opposite. I feel really calm living in Gstaad and I really enjoy looking at the amazing blue sky and clouds which I don’t have in Beijng. But there is something where I like about China: the food! The main

food in China is rice. Even though in Switzerland we also have rice, the taste is really different. At my school in Beijing, the class sizes were enormous and the teachers extremely strict. The teachers are friendly, but they can also be quite strict!

–Fiona Gstaad is amazing. It is my fourth year here at Le Rosey, but I always discover new things each Winter Term in Gstaad, and will never get bored of this place. In Japan, I feel that it is unsafe because of the explosion in Fukushima, which is very sad but when I come to Gstaad I can forget about the radioactivity. It is also really exciting with the thick snow because in Japan it only snows

in the North and I find the skiing and sledging here really cool. I like it here but I also miss my home and my family and want to go back sometimes.

–Yuria For me, there are quite a few differences between my home country of England and Switzerland. I think that they focus on dairy products and tourism here in Gstaad.

Another big difference between here and home is the food! I miss my Mum’s “Toad in the hole,” but I do love a good raclette! In England the focus is on cricket and rugby and it wasn’t until I came to Gstaad that I learned to ski.

–Oscar

Photos: zVg

Students of the famed international school made a trip to the Müller Medien offices to learn about the business. Here are their written accounts of how Gstaad differs from their hometowns.

Left to right: Sofia, Fiona, Yuria, Lucas and Oscar

"You wouldn't find architecture like this in Gstaad!" says Sofia.

GSTAAD LIVING // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 1 // JANUARY 30, 2015

H. Pajaziti, Tailor

„Au service de votre élégance“

Modifications of all kind Tailor for ladies, gentlemen and children Home Delivery and Service Made-to-Measure work Leather and Goretex Specialist Chalet Les Arcades, Lauenenstrasse 18, 1st Floor 3780 Gstaad, Tel. 033 744 38 30

Photo: zVg

In addition to his brilliant musical skills, teenage violinist Daniel Lozakovitj is a master chess player.

Child Prodigy Wows at Saanen Church Sommets Musicaux Ends Festival with Extraordinary Violinist

BY ALEXIS MUNIER

chamber orchestra with finesse and vigour, filling the church with proper “Sturm und Drang.” The piece was originally composed for 13 players, yet Wagner expanded the orchestration to 35 to increase its marketability. While it only plays for 13 measures, the trumpeter's performance was spot-on, which goes for the oboe solo as well.

On February 8, the Chamber Orchestra of Vienna led by Stefan Vladar opened the evening with Wagner’s Siegfried-Idyll, WWV 103. While some may prefer Wagner’s lush, romantic splendour with a larger orchestra, the group played this sonata written for

Next onstage was the highlight of the evening–child prodigy violinist Daniel Lozakovitj. The pint-sized 13-year old was all smiles and youthful energy as he wowed the appreciative audience with Beethoven’s Violin

The Sommets Musicaux de Gstaad didn’t disappoint this year, with an exceptional final concert held in Saanen Church. It was the last programme designed and selected

by Thierry Scherz, the festival’s artistic director who passed away last year.

Concerto in D-major, Opus 61. Lozakovitj possesses not just technical skill, but an emotional intensity rare for a boy his age.

Already, he has won several international competitions including “The Pearls of Ohrid," held in Macedonia in 2012.

His next concerts are with some of the world’s foremost orchestras, and audiences agree the incredible Swede certainly has the makings of a real star. Should he make a return appearance at the Sommets Musicaux, be sure to reserve your tickets in advance–he is simply not to be missed.

First Annual Sarina Mini Cup Lovell Camps Offers New Ski Race to the Community

The Sarina Mini Cup, a ski race organised and offered by Lovell Camps, was held February 11 in Schönried The race was such a success that it will continue next year as an annual event.

BY GSTAADLIFE

Ninety-seven children participated in Wednesday's race, including seven JO (youth organisation) Clubs: Schönried, Gstaad, Saanen, Gsteig-Feutersoey, Turbach,

Grund, and Lauenen were all represented. The champion title went to Gstaad JO, who was awarded a trophy for their win of the cup. The fastest girl on the course was Chiara Lanz from Schonried JO, and the fastest boy was Janis Herrmann from Grund, who received special cups at the prize giving ceremony.

This is the first joint community race with the local company Lovell Camps.

The Lovell family owned and operated the prestigious John F. Kennedy International School and Summer Camp in Saanen-Gstaad, Switzerland for over 40 years before deciding to separate the school and summer camp and create Lovell International Camps AG in 2011. An economic boon to the region, Lovell Camps has continued to expand, giving vast recreational and learning opportunities to international and local children both in the winter and summer.

GSTAAD LIVING // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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Photo: AvS

Li Chun Lei, left, stands with a group of Chinese journalists on a media trip to the Saanenland.

Same Time Next Year

Ski Instructors Jan Brand & Li Chun Lei INTERVIEW BY ALEXIS MUNIER

After chocolate, watches, and cheese, when you think of skiing, you think of Switzerland.

Since organised skiing was first developed in Glarus in 1892, this winter sport has been a source of great revenue for the Alps. But with shrinking revenues from European guests, new markets are being developed in the Far East.

The most ambitious of these projects was worthy of a reality show. For the Winter 2013/2014 season, the Swiss Tourism board and Swiss Snowsports held auditions in China to select six Chinese skiers to live and train in Switzerland. Of those lucky six, Li Chun Lei was sent to the Saanenland. Despite limited English (and nonexistent German) skills, the ambitious 42-year old skier took to Gstaad like a fish to water. Hosted by the Brands in Lauenen, Chun Lei was welcomed like family. Jan Brand, director of Gstaad Snowsports and head of the ski school, created a specialised training programme for him, which Chun Lei is currently continuing this year.

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This winter, the saga continues; on behalf of Swiss Tourism and the association Swiss Snowsports, Li Chun Lei was invited to spend another winter in Gstaad. The Chinese ski teacher first attended a week of intensive courses to improve his English, before embarking on ski instructing during the holiday period.

LCL: I remember watching the Olympics on television, and thinking, “Wow!” I’d like to do that. It was summer and very hot in China, but I started making my own skis in anticipation of the next winter. I made them completely by hand, chopping wood in the forest and then carving them to the right size and shape.

GL: Is there a ski culture in China?

If so, how is it evolving?

GL: What do you love most about the sport?

Li Chun Lei: Skiing was first opened to the public in 1996, so the ski culture is very young. We have a few hundred resorts of all sizes, which are spread out mostly in my northeast region of Hailong. Skiing is gaining in popularity but still remains a far-off luxury for most Chinese families. People who live in the ski regions, however, are now starting to take the sport seriously.

GL: How did you become interested in downhill skiing?

PROFILE // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

LCL: In general, cities in China are crowded and noisy… but up on the mountains there is peace and calm. I love standing at the top of a slope and just taking it all in, breathing the fresh air and appreciating the beautiful nature around me.

GL: Chun Lei, you live with Jan’s parents Benz and Annelise in Lauenen. How is it to live with a local family?

LCL: I much prefer living with the Brand family than living in a hotel. They’ve taught

I remember watching the Olympics on television, and thinking, “Wow!” I’d like to do that. It was summer and very hot in China, but I started making my own skis in anticipation of the next winter.

Li Chun Lei

me so much about Swiss culture. Jan’s father Benz has taught me how to milk cows, and Annelise has even showed me how to make a fondue.

GL: The weather hasn’t exactly been conducive to skiing this winter; how is the ski business?

Jan Brand: First of all, we were only hurt by the lack of snow before Christmas. The holiday week of New Year’s was one of the busiest of the year. January is often quiet but it’s true that this year, we had the surprise of the franc’s 20 % rise against the euro, which certainly didn’t help matters. But there are yet other reasons why skiing is suffering.

GL: You say skiing is declining in popularity. Why? JB: Let’s face it, skiing is an expensive sport–the slopes have to be maintained and so does the lift equipment. That said, many people continue to choose beautiful Alpine nature, and beautiful things will always have their price.

GL: Seeking out foreign guests from outside Europe must be an even greater priority now. How important is reaching the Asian market?

JB: Very important! China especially is a huge country with a growing upper and middle class, whose appetite for travel is growing. As Chun Lei mentioned, skiing is new to the Chinese, and I think it will continue to evolve in popularity. Despite the new opportunities for skiing in China, a real love for skiing will bring them to the Alps one day, where we have some of the world’s best ski resorts.

GL: You have been called the ‘Perfect Ambassador for Gstaad’ by Gstaad-Saanenland Tourism, Chun Lei. How do you feel about this title?

LCL: It’s true I have been very active on the social networks in China, especially Weibo, which is our equivalent to Facebook. I like posting photos and comments about my life here in Switzerland, to show the Chinese people just how fantastic the skiing is, and how beautiful the scenery.

GL: Chun Lei, do you spend the whole day teaching on the slopes?

LCL: This year, in addition to teaching skiing, I’m acting as a full guide for Chinese guests. Because of the language issue, they have a problem from the first moment they arrive at the airport. I come to pick them up and help them get to Gstaad, and arrive at their hotel. This quiet time with guests gives me the opportunity to talk about the Saanenland, and explain what I know about Swiss culture, history, and sports.

GL: Jan, what sort of specialized training is Chun Lei receiving?

JB: As of yet, there is no official recognition for ski instructors in China. That’s a big part of why Chun Lei is here, to learn not only more about skiing technique, but safety and pedagogy focusing on children’s ski lessons as well. In 2001, Switzerland began requiring that all ski instructors pass a series of exams to obtain a license. Chun Lei is currently completing the first of four levels in the Swiss system.

GL: Local knowledge is one of the reasons those raised in the Saanenland represent a majority of the ski instructors. However, wouldn’t more Russian and Chinese workers be a boon to the region?

JB: Some foreign workers do come to work the winter season; however, their numbers remain minimal. As the only Chinese-speaking instructor at Gstaad

Snowsports, Li Chun Lei’s role is vital for our Chinese guests who speak no other language but Mandarin or Cantonese.

GL: What are the qualities of a superior ski instructor?

JB: Skills like good knowledge of the weather and snow conditions are necessary, especially for guided trips off-piste, where the risk of avalanche is especially high this season. The instructors must not only be expert skiers, but well-rounded snow sportsmen.

GL: Has studying, training, and working in Gstaad helped your career in China?

LCL: Yes! Thanks to my time in Gstaad and the press I’ve received back home, I was offered a position managing a ski resort last year. That’s why I’m only here in Gstaad twice for several weeks at a time– my employer in China needs me.

GL: The winter only lasts so long, and it’s clear that ski instructors must find other work during the rest of the year; how do you spend this time?

JB: As director of the ski school, I have a year-round position. In the off-season there is quite a lot of administration and marketing to take care of, and I do take a whole month off in summer to spend time with my two children.

LCL: My new job as director of a ski resort is year-round. We are talking about ways to expand our summer offerings, perhaps by building a golf course.

GL: What is your opinion on the the financial problems of the mountain railways company, the BDG? Are you worried that closing certain installations or even bankruptcy will hurt your business?

JB: I’m on the board of the BDG so I am fully aware that there are some changes that will be made. We are working hard to solve the situation and come up with a solution that fits our needs and creates a solid future for skiing in the region.

PROFILE // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

15

PLUS DESIGN CREATIVE CONSULTING

REINVENTING TRADITION: Reinventing tradition: the new Alpine Chic THE NEW ALPINE CHIC With the newly completed project of the Hotel de Rougemont, the architects Claudia Sigismondi and her husband The Proto pair’sdi Santa multidisciplinary approach Andrea Dorotea, have displayed their creative talents also in is evident throughout their projects– the Swiss Alps.

Claudia brings her vision in terms of

atmosphere, mood Originally from Rome, whereand they’vecolour, while Andrea uses his spatial planning skills and worked for many years in the field of architecture, interior design, sustainable attention to detail to make them a reality. architecture, art exhibitions and graphic design, they’ve now opened a new office in the Gstaad region, with their company Plusdesign.

Their multidisciplinary approach to work is a guideline in their projects, with Claudia bringing her visions in terms of atmosphere, mood and color and Andrea With the newly completed turning them intoHôtel reality,et with his space planning skills and his attention to detail.

combination of local materials and traditional craftsmanship, with innovative design solutions and creative décor, sets the work of Plusdesign apart.

Now that their signature project Hotel et Résidences de Rougemont has reached fruition, Claudia and Andrea are ready to meet the new challenges of future work in the region.

Résidences de Rougemont, architects They work through every stage of the Claudia Sigismondi and her husband design process, from concept to compleAndrea Proto di developing Santa Dorotea now have tion, the idea from mood boards, freehandtalent sketches 2D drawings their trademark creative onand display to photorealistic 3D renderings.

From concept to completion, they work in the Swiss Alps.

The result is a style that blends timeless through every stage of the design process elegance and modern combining Originally from Rome, they luxury, worked for including developing the idea from mood materials andoftraditional craftsman-boards, freehand sketches and 2D drawmany years local in the fields architecture, ship with innovative design solutions and interior design, sustainable architecture, ings to photorealistic 3D renderings. creative decor. art exhibitions and graphic design. They Now that theaproject Rougemont and Andrea are The fulfilled, result Claudia is a style that blends timeless have recently opened new inoffice in thehas been ready to meet the new challenges of their future works so... keep an eye on elegance and modern luxury. The striking Gstaad region for their firm Plusdesign.

Plusdesign website for updates!

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SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

www.plusdesign.ch info@plusdesign.ch T +41 26 924 41 43 M +41 79 315 16 09 www.plusdesign.ch www.plusdesign.ch info@plusdesign.ch info@plusdesign.ch

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Photo: zVg

Left to right: Sarah, Duchess of York, IID President Homayra Sellier, and Libby Ferguson.

Sarah, Duchess of York Graces Gala

Event Raises Funds to End Human Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation Innocence in Danger, the international organisation that fights child sexual exploitation and human trafficking from 11 offices across the world, held its annual charity gala February 12 in Gstaad.

2. Colombia: IID’s Regional Director Mrs Susana Roques, expert on cognitive post-trauma therapies, has initiated a new form of therapy which is the most effective known today. A book on the method will be launched at the end of March 2015.

BY ALEXIS MUNIER

The evening began with cocktails at the Gstaad Yacht Club, where Founder and President Homayra Sellier gave an introductory speech.

“It has been a very productive year in so many ways,” said Sellier. “We have opened two new offices in Austria and the UK, which extends our reach to help even more children in need.”

3. Germany: Smartphone, peer to peer and internet safety programmes developed by IID are being used nationwide. They will next be launched in Austria, with further use in other countries once translations and logistic preparations are completed.

Advocacy Activities in Europe and Beyond It has been a successful year for IID indeed. The following are several highlights of the organisation’s recent campaigns for justice:

Where’s There a Will, There’s a Soirée Next during the evening’s lineup was a short film by Raven Kaliana, a survivor of child sexual exploitation. “Hooray for Hollywood” uses handcrafted puppets to illustrate the painful experiences of Kaliana’s youth and is a vital component of her public awareness activities.

1. France: Participation in the "Affaire Cottrez," the biggest case of infanticide worldwide, with eight murdered babies. Their legal action created a jurisprudence that acts as a change in the law, and as a result the perpetrator will face charges in criminal court. Sellier is also assisting victims with preparation for what will be another very large criminal case, which will appear in French court in May 2015.

The highlight of the evening was guest of honour Sarah, Duchess of York, who gave an inspiring speech to the enthusiastic crowd.

The Duchess spoke at length on her charity work and presented a slideshow of children she has helped around the world. One particularly emotional moment was the story of a young boy she had met at an orphanage in Romania. When Sarah, Duchess of York inquired as to why he was lying on the

floor on a dirty mattress, he responded that once a day, the sun hit a certain spot on the building and he could feel its warmth.

“Forget about your next party, your next glass of champagne,” quipped Sarah, Duchess of York. “Remember there are people in the world who need your help; children like this boy, who waits all day to feel just a minute of sunlight on his face.”

The Duchess continued in her trademark no-nonsense style, “I’ve had bad press for decades, and the media have written some terrible things about me. But it doesn’t bother me. I wake up thankful for every day–for the wonderful opportunities I’ve been given–and I know how lucky I am.”

The group then moved on for dinner at Le Grand Bellevue, followed by dancing at the hotel’s Club Room. The event also featured a silent auction and tombola. All proceeds will go toward funding IID’s Swiss activities, namely their summer camps in the Saanenland and aftercare programme.

IID is active in seven countries – Switzerland, France, Germany, the USA, the UK and Colombia, where they provide legal, medical and social services to victims and their parents. Additionally, IID is equally dedicated to fostering real political change and awareness through high-level advocacy and lobbying.

GSTAAD LIVING // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

17

ELEVATION 1049

M端ller+Hess, KEYSTONE/Fabrice Coffrini

GSTAAD JANUARY 2016

18

ELEVATION1049.ORG

GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

Photos: Raphael Faux

Christophe, Marie-Noëlle, and Philippe Gudin, left to right.

Samuel and Unni Turrettini in Avrone sunglasses.

100 Winters in Gstaad

Le Rosey Fêtes Long-Time Collaboration with Alumni and Locals Standing ovation–1000 clapping hands for the farewell speech of Philippe Gudin. He was only 26 years old when he started as director of Le Rosey, one of the world’s foremost academic institutions. Thirty-five years later, he passes the crown and sceptre to his son Christophe, 28 years old.

BY JANUARIA PIROMALLO

"Swiss values, internationalism, family ownership and a holistic education,” said Mr Gudin, during his speech, “this has been the legacy of Le Rosey since it was born in 1880.”

Despite its current fame, the school had a quite humble beginning–which began with just three students: an Italian, a German and a Swiss. The instruction was primarily focused on teaching French and business.

In 1915, to escape the damp and dull winters by the lake, Henri Carnal, the son of the founder, decided to move the school to Gstaad for the season. The Palace Hotel had just opened its doors and the ski lifts did not even exist yet. The first problems they encountered were too much snow and not enough fresh vegetables. They installed the school in Chalet Rex (which today is the main office).

One of their first activities was starting a hockey team together with Gstaad, which later won the Swiss championship. Step by step, the “ésprit roséen” or Roséen spirit, was built. This philosophy insists that education must include sports, arts and concern for the others, all wrapped in good manners.

Now, Philippe and his wife Anne Gudin, have just retired, having achieved so much more.

"The bond of lasting friendship and shared experiences across a multitude of nationalities and cultures is the essence of the AIAR (Association Internationale des Anciens Roséens)," said Monica Coppola in her speech following Mr Gudin. Ms Coppola speaks from first hand knowledge–three generations of brothers, sisters and cousins in her family have studied at Le Rosey.

At this, their annual alumni weekend, the Rosey full programme started on Thursday, February 12 with a meeting with heads of admissions of American and English Universities including Dartmouth and Cambridge, at Alpin Nova. On Friday at the Wasserngrat, the famous ski race took place among students, alumni, and parents. Prize giving with beautiful crystal trophies and a variety of food including raclette and sugared crepes was served under a tent. In the afternoon, a hockey match on Gstaad's rink was held.

For the biggest event of the school’s “100 Winters in Gstaad” celebration, the Alpengala tent was transformed into an enchanted forest. Approximately 1000 guests were present for a dinner planned by Marie Noëlle Gudin, Rosey Foundation Manager and daughter of the outgoing Philippe Gudin. Students and alumni were seated next to local entrepreneurs like Lorenz Bach and national deputy Erich von Siebenthal. Completing the evening, a young student played rock quitar while the "Golden Singers" performed onstage. As the perfect souvenir of the evening, Edoardo Francia, head of trendy Italian sunglass company Avrone, made a special edition for the school. The proceeds from the sales all went to a good cause–to help fund the building a new school in Mali that will serve children in need.

Bravo Le Rosey–here’s to another 100 years in Gstaad!

Les and Penn Sicre.

LIFESTYLE // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

19

Saanenland Spa Guide All's Wellness that Ends Wellness

After a long day on the slopes, a little R&R at one of the region's many fine spas and wellness centres can hit the spot.

BY: GSTAADLIFE

GSTAADLIFE toured several local wellness establishements and found not a single

WHEN IN ROME

one disappointed. It was quite an international experience, from Roman-style baths to deep, Thai-inspired strokes.

While not all of Gstaad's spas could be featured here in our pages, take heart – and face – our guide to the best facials will appear later this year.

AMAZING ALPIENNE The Ermitage’s Alpienne Salt Stone wellness massage is a fascinating combination of energy treatment with detoxifying and purifying effects. After being slathered in almond oil, spa director Myriam Wüest uses heated salt stones to massage tired muscles.

They say natural crystal salt releases negative ions, which soothe your body and counteract the positive ions put out by equipment such as mobile phones.

Whether or not you believe this theory holds water, you’re sure to leave refreshed and tingling (don’t forget a dip in the hotel’s famous saltwater pool, the first in the region). Bonus: The fun doesn’t stop here… you can even keep the stones used during your treatment for home use.

2

Despite 2,500 sq metres of wellness centre, the biggest thing about Le Grand Bellevue’s spa is the warm, friendly welcome. Their signature Saki massage is fully unique – a melange of Asian techniques including Thai and acupressure. But don’t be tempted to skip the spa’s real highlight which has earned them a gold star, the sequence of exquisitely tiled sauna and hammams. Start your journey with guided Pranayama breathing in the glow of a giant Himalayan pink salt stone, then move on to a fragrant herbal sauna, ice grotto, and Turkish steam bath. If you’ve got the time, don’t skip their geranium and Dead Sea salt full body scrub topped off with a rose petal and hot sweet almond oil Jacuzzi bath.

1

THE FULL MONTY Hotel de Rougemont is the first luxury establishment to grace the Pays-d’Enhaut in many decades – and it was well worth the wait. The hotel's Le Spa is decidedly petite, yet offers a wealth of treatments to suit any need. Spa manager Doris has trained in nutrition and sports in addition to esthetics, allowing her to tailor a unique private wellness experience from private yoga classes to foot reflexology massages.

The spa's signature treatment, Rituel Corps Pure Altitude, began like no other, focusing first on relaxing the face and neck via their pressure points.

Warm oils from this organic line –made of a blend of more than 50 alpine plants with regenerative powers – caress the skin as the rest of the body is rubbed down with expert manipulation. Last but not least, heated towels with a blend of essential oils are used to tonify the skin. A thorough, and thoroughly enjoyable, experience.

20

LIFESTYLE // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

THE MAGIC WAND When a six-foot tall Polish woman with a large stick in her hands tells you to let her know if it hurts, you expect the worst. Don't.

The Palace Spa's Jardin des Monts energising signature massage is the best of the best, yet not for the faint of heart. With a smooth wooden roller and deep, synchronised movements, head spa therapist Ewona rolls out the kinks like you’ve never experienced. Slathered in fragrant organic oil from nearby producer Jardin des Monts in Rossinière, you’ll be rolled and kneaded like a fine pastry. Hurts so good is the term that comes to mind – but buck up your courage, because our tester left with supple, relaxed muscles, and (she swears!) tauter skin.

Photo: Raphaël Faux

Not a year has passed since 1969 without Pino at our sides, serving us lunch at the Eagle Club, making us comfortable, seeing to our dinner parties, standing by discreetly during some of the important and not so important events of our lives.

BY MANDOLYNA THEODORACOPULOS

If nothing else, Pino is dedicated to the task at hand. He has a sense of humour, he gets things done, he never flinches. But there is a lot more to Pino than the pride he takes in his work.

Last Christmas when Dame Vivian Duffield gave her annual party she stood up, not to toast her guests or her family but to recognise Pino, the man who has been there loyally, for roughly forty odd years, helping her pull off flawless dinner parties in her subterranean shell-laden oasis.

Vivian’s speech brought tears to my eyes, literally, I am Greek after all, but not because I am sad to see him retire. Pino has worked hard all his life, retirement is a milestone to celebrate. I was teary-eyed because I realised Pino had been standing by all of my life and I couldn’t think of a single personal moment we ever shared. That is to say, he has been to my house, seen

Grande Pino me in my dressing gown, heard the toast my father gave when I was engaged to be married, but never have I seen the private side of Pino.

I began to wonder what Pino thinks of us all?

Has he been well treated here in Gstaad?

What was it like working around this very small tight knit group of people? I giggled at the thought of the snippets he must have picked up over the years, the soundbites that have been dropping out of mouths like crumbs to the floor. The fights, the gossips, the family secrets. He must know them all!

He must know us all quite well, actually.

My father, who is the oldest life member of the club says that Pino’s great quality is understanding the pecking order of the club, who to seat where, and most importantly, why to seat them there. He has a deep understanding of people, and particularly this group of people who form the Eagle Club and by connection, Gstaad. What has made Pino so good at his profession is his appreciation for these details, for peoples’ needs, for his discretion and ability to feign ignorance. A rare thing these days.

Perhaps people have always been the attraction for Pino. Ultimately, it seems this is

what drew him to Gstaad in the first place.

Pino is Italian, from the Lago Maggiore. He came here in 1969 to work at the Olden and was brought up to the Club by Angelo in 1971. He says in those days Gstaad wasn’t young and sporty the way it is now, it was very glamorous, full of movie stars like David Niven, Joan Collins, Sophia Loren, Liz Taylor and Richard Burton. He says with a smirk that Peter Sellers was miscast as the Pink Panther and they should have chosen him because he was practically Sellers’ double. A telling anecdote, certainly.

When asked about his time at the club Pino says he is practically on his fourth generation of Eagle members and loves to see the newest generation knowing their parents and grandparents. He says his 44 years at the club have been the most wonderful experience, but that he is ready to leave and find his next escapade.

“I will miss everyone here very much and equally those that I work with. For me though, what's important is the tradition, and the fact that everyone has always been so nice to me. Gstaad was my love.”

Grande Pino, Gstaad loves you! It won’t be the same without you.

LAST WORD // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

21

Church Services

Events Calendar Friday, February 20, 2015 to Sunday, March 22, 2015 Fri, Feb. 20 – Feb. 28

Saanen

Sledge Exhibition Heimatwerk Saanen, Mon – Sat

Sledding Cross 11 am

Fri, Feb. 20 – Mar. 27

Fri, Feb. 28

Zweisimmen

Saanen

Zweisimmen

Photographs by Jacques Naegeli

Concert by Zweisimmen Jazz Bänz Oester & Rainmakers, 8:30 pm

Fri, Feb. 20 – Apr. 30

Gstaad

Gravity Meditation

Gsteig

Thu, Mar. 5

Works by Pascal Fiechter Blankenburg

Silhouette Exhibition Works by Ann Rosat and Ueli Hauswirth Zweisimmen

Snowgames Zweisimmen

Church Concert Swiss folk music

Fri, Feb. 20

Gstaad

Winter Market 11 am to 6 pm Zweisimmen

Night sledding on the Sparenmoos Every Fri and Sat, 6:30 pm

Indoor Shoot Open to the public, 4 pm to 8 pm Fri, Feb. 20

Zweisimmen

Night Skiing on the Rinderberg 6 pm to 9:30 pm Sat, Feb. 21

Zweisimmen

Bike Night Zweisimmen Sun, Feb. 22

Saanen

Chess Tournament

Zweisimmen

Concert, New Zurich Orchestra 7:30 pm

Sat, Mar. 7

Gstaad

Daylong event in the snow Sat, Mar. 7 – Sun, Mar. 8

Gstaad

Juniors Curling Tournament Fifth annual event

Swiss Folk Concert Musical evening, 8 pm Gstaad

Choir Concert

Saanen

General Assembly "Saanen Aktiv" All members welcome, 8 pm

Collegium Vocale, 5 pm Mon, Feb. 23

Turbach

General Assembly

Thur, Mar. 12

Saanen

Saanen Bank Meeting In Swiss German, 8 pm

8:15 pm, all are welcome Fri, Feb. 27

Saanen

Mercedes Benz Winter Experience

Fri, Mar. 13 – Mar. 15

Ride On Music Concerts on the Horneggli

Sat, Feb. 28

Fri, Mar. 13 – Sun, Mar. 15

Saanenmöser

Public Photoshoot Free at the Snowpark, 10 am to 2 pm

Swiss Championship Curling tournament

EVENTS // GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

**** * LE GRAND BELLEVUE +41 (0)33 748 00 00, info@bellevue-gstaad.ch **** * THE ALPINA GSTAAD +41 (0)33 888 98 88, info@thealpinagstaad.ch ***** ERMITAGE, WELLNESS & SPA HOTEL +41 (0)33 748 04 30, welcome@ermitage.ch *** * BOUTIQUE HOTEL ALPENROSE +41 (0)33 748 91 91, info@hotelalpenrose.ch *** * GOLFHOTEL LES HAUTS DE GSTAAD +41 (0)33 748 68 68, mail@golfhotel.ch **** HOTEL LE GRAND CHALET +41 (0)33 748 76 76, hotel@grandchalet.ch **** HOTEL ARC-EN-CIEL +41 (0)33 748 43 43, info@arc-en-ciel.ch

**** HOTEL CHRISTIANIA +41 (0)33 744 51 21, info@christiania.ch **** HOTEL GSTAADERHOF: +41 (0)33 748 63 63, info@gstaaderhof.ch **** HOTEL OLDEN +41 (0)33 748 49 50, info@hotelolden.com **** ROMANTIK HOTEL HORNBERG +41 (0)33 748 66 88, willkommen@hotel-hornberg.ch

** * HOTEL ALPINE LODGE +41 (0)33 748 41 51, info@alpinelodge.ch ** * HOTEL DES ALPES BY BRUNO KERNEN +41 (0)33 748 04 50, info@desalpes.ch *** HOTEL BELLERIVE +41 (0)33 748 88 33, info@bellerive-gstaad.ch

Rotary Club Gstaad-Saanenland Meetings every Monday 12h00 Palace Hotel Gstaad (033 / 748 50 00), President: Rot. Christiane Griessen (079 / 432 73 93) Secretary: Rot. Markus Iseli (033 / 748 92 08)

Meetings each first and third week of the month on Thursdays, either at 12 pm for lunch or at 7 pm for dinner.

Meetings in Ermitage, Wellness & Spa-­Hotel, Schönried, Tel. 033 748 60 60.

For details and program contact Sigi Feller, president, 033 748 85 73, sigbert.feller@ubs.com gstaad-saanenland.lionsclub.ch

*** HOTEL ALPENLAND +41 (0)33 765 91 34, hotel@alpenland.ch *** HOTEL ALPHORN +41 (0)33 748 45 45, office@alphorn-gstaad.ch *** HOTEL KERNEN +41 (0)33 748 40 20, info@hotel-kernen.ch *** HOTEL LANDHAUS +41 (0)33 748 40 40, info@landhaus-saanen.ch *** HOTEL SAANERHOF +41 (0)33 744 15 15, hotel@saanerhof.ch ** * HOTEL SOLSANA +41 (0)33 748 94 94, info@solsana.ch ** * HOTEL SPITZHORN +41 (0)33 748 41 41, spitzhorn@spitzhorn.ch *** POSTHOTEL RÖSSLI +41 (0)33 748 42 42, info@posthotelroessli.ch *** SAANEWALD LODGE +41 (0)33 744 69 69, info@saanewald-lodge.ch *** SPORTHOTEL VICTORIA +41 (0)33 748 44 22, info@victoria-gstaad.ch HOTEL RESTAURANT BÄREN +41 (0)33 755 10 33, welcome@baerengsteig.ch

Soroptimist International Gstaad

**** * GRAND HOTEL PARK +41 (0)33 748 98 00, info@grandhotelpark.ch

**** STEIGENBERGER ALPENHOTEL AND SPA +41 (0)33 748 64 64, gstaad@steigenberger.ch

Saanenmöser

Driving on snow at the airport

**** * GSTAAD PALACE +41 (0)33 748 50 00, info@palace.ch

For additional useful numbers please visit www.gstaadlife.ch/useful-­ numbers.html

Lions Club Gstaad-Saanenland

Wed, Mar. 11

Gstaadlife is available in these Hotels

**** HOTEL BERNERHOF +41 (0)33 748 88 44, info@bernerhof-gstaad.ch

King of Boogie, 5:30 pm to 11:30 pm Saanen

www.allsaints.ch/chateaudoex Contact: cliveatkinson@bluewin.ch

Ambulance 144, Police 117, Fire 118 Medical Emergency 0900 57 67 47 Dental Emergency 033 729 26 26 Police Station 033 356 84 31 Car Accident 033 744 88 80 Zweisimmen Hospital 033 729 26 26 Château-d’Oex Hospital 026 923 43 43 Veterinarian 033 748 08 58/ 033 744 06 61

Clubs

Nico Brina Concert

All are welcome, 8 pm

Zweisimmen

For further details please visit: www.gstaad.ch

Abländschen

Sat, Mar. 7

General Assembly of Gstaad Saanenland Tourism

Sun, Feb. 22

Saanenmöser

Important Numbers

Fatbike Test Weekend All day

Sun, Feb. 22 1 pm

Concert and Theater

Audi Skicross Tour Top level skiing

Tues, Mar. 10

Horn Sledge Race

Lauenen

Sat, Mar. 21

Ski tricks training with professional guidance

All are welcome, 9 am to 5 pm Saanenmöser

Legendary ski sports event

Girls Shred Session

Sat, Mar. 7

6 pm

Rinderberg Derby Zweisimmen

Thu, Mar. 5 – Sat, Mar. 7 Zweisimmen

Snow Golf Tournament Saanen

Zweisimmen

Sat, Mar. 21

Sun, Mar. 22

Sat, Mar. 7 – Sun, Mar. 8 Zweisimmen

Fri, Feb. 20

Zweisimmen

In Swiss German, 8:15 pm

Fri, Mar. 6

Family fun on the Rinderberg

Fri, Feb. 20 – Mar. 7

Sun, Mar. 15

With waterslide contest, 3 pm Zweisimmen

St Peter’s Anglican Church English-Speaking, Château-d’Oex Service every Sunday, 17.30 pm

Ensemble Panos, 5 pm

Fri, Feb. 28

Fri, Feb. 20

Saanen

In Swiss German, 8:15pm

Welt & Gstaad Exhibition

Fri, Feb. 20 – Apr. 5

Sat, Mar. 14

Concert and Theater

RInderberg King and Queen

Art by Marianne Louma-Weber Fri, Feb. 20 – Oct. 17

Zweisimmen

Pan Flute Concert

Metallic Object Exhibtion

22

Sat, Feb. 28

President: Heidi Gafner-Kiefer Tel. 033 748 83 15 Program: Stephanie Iseli Tel. 033 744 18 33

HOTEL GELTENHORN +41 (0)33 765 35 91, brand@hotel-geltenhorn.ch HOTEL VIKTORIA +41 (0)33 755 10 34, hotel_viktoria@bluewin.ch HOTEL WILDHORN +41 (0)33 765 30 12, info@hotel-wildhorn.ch

coiffeur & more

O UNDER SE HAS TO G O TIME EVEN A HOU ROM TIME T THE KNIFE F

63

years of experience

visit hair_room_gstaad and experience our 63 years of cutting edge, hairstyling and coloring skills

hair_room_gstaad mo–sa 9.00–19.00h 033 744 98 88 hairroomgstaad.ch

www.werrenag.ch Phone: 033 748 84 00

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8.8.2008 18:08:02 Uhr

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Holiday apartments

A good chalet investment.

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 

‘The Site’, in Saanen 033 744 06 03 office@vgminvest.ch gstaad-saanen-site.ch

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 GSTAADLIFE // ISSUE 2 // FEBRUARY 20, 2015

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