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T h e e x c l u s i v e m o nt h l y p u b l i c ati o n a b o u t t h e g o o d l i f e in g s taa d

Friday 15 July 2011 - Issue 4 - CHF 3.50 excl VAT

IN THIS ISSUE

· Weekly market in Saanen brings life to car-free village

MAGAZINE

Feel good

· Voters approve plans for Saanen public car park & neighborhood development

· Nine Lives: Dan Fox · Beachvolleyball results · Gstaad is anchored in the hearts of the players · Swiss Alpine flora · Curtain opens at Wildhorn Hotel · The next big thing COLUMN

Photo: Jonas Bach

· My top holiday hotspots

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Friday 15 July 2011 Page 3

Contents

Gstaadlife is available in these Hotels

Letter from the Editor ������������������������������������������������������� 3 In-depth article Weekly market in Saanen brings life to car-free village ��������������� 5, 7 Local News Elderly center project on schedule after 'chalet-like' adjustments . . . 7

Book review: Nine lives Author Dan Fox ������������������������������� 9 Reader's comment: 'Should ­taxpayers subsidize farmers who

own cows with horns?' ����������������� 10 Beachvolleyball results ��������������� 10 'Gstaad is anchored in the hearts of the players' ��������������������11 Swiss Alpine flora ������������������������ 13

Curtain opens at Wildhorn Hotel . 16 Local Personality The next big thing ����������������������� 17 Column My top holiday hotspots ����������� . 18 Events Events calendar ����������������������������� 19

Letter from the Editor - Of writers,

­illustrators, painters and an elegant car dealer.

The beauty, elegance and simplicity of the Gstaad region have allured many an artist over the years.

Whether as regular visitors, residents or long term patrons, it seems that this small piece of picture perfect Switzerland has cast its spell on a healthy portion of the creative community and continues to do so with regular renewal. To my knowledge it has never been quantified, however it would be an interesting calculation to see just how many writers, painters, musicians, sculptors, poets and artistic crafters frequent the small group of villages that make up our region. Going about one’s daily business in Gstaad we are constantly reminded of the fact that these special people have either been with us previously or are present amongst us. Being the Editor of GstaadLife I sometimes have the privilege of meeting some of these artists and see their work. Recently I received in the post an intriguing hand written book entitled ‘Swiss Blue’. Not only is it a fabulous short adventure story that takes place in Gstaad, it

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was sent to me by no other than the acclaimed writer and illustrator Huck Scarry. The Scarry family has had a home in Gstaad since the early seventies I believe, and father Richard Scarry worked sometimes from his chalet on his literal works that were translated into 30 different languages, which sold over 100 million copies. Huck Scarry and I have decided to publish ‘Swiss Blue’ as a 4-part series in GstaadLife this coming winter and we look forward to sharing it with our readers. I further had the recent pleasure of reading Dan Fox’s first book, ‘Nine Lives’. Ian Wilson, ‘nom de plume’ Dan Fox, is a resident of our region and popped a copy of his first literal works into my post box in Schönried. I found it to be a splendid read and judging by its many fine reviews, it is a worldclass piece. I have written a short review of ‘Nine Lives’ in this issue of GstaadLife to add to the many welldeserved accolades Ian has received for his work. A wonderful experience I encountered recently was whilst picking up a new car from brothers

Pichler in Feutersoey. It is sometimes customary when taking delivery of a new car to get a little gift from the dealer, be that a bottle of bubbly or a branded corporate gift of sort. Once Erich Pichler had shown me how all the buttons and switches work in the car, he nonchalantly handed over to me, his token of appreciation. Together with some of his family gastronomic delights he added a beautiful hard cover book called ‘My Black Gullwing - Picasso and Lump’. A signed copy of a book composed by David Douglas Duncan about the famous car, the artist, his dog called Lump and what became the three. Now there is a relationship between the name Picasso and Gstaad, but that’s a story of its own.

As for the elegant and artistically charged gesture bestowed upon me

by Mr Pichler, my summation was, only in Gstaad!

***** Gstaad PALACE: +41 (0)33 748 50 00, info@palace.ch ***** GRAND HOTEL PARK: +41 (0)33 748 98 00, info@grandhotelpark.ch ***** GRAND HOTEL BELLEVUE: +41 (0)33 748 00 00, info@bellevue-gstaad.ch ***** WELLNESS & SPA HOTEL ERMITAGE-GOLF: +41 (0)33 748 60 60, ermitagegolf@ermitage-gstaad.ch **** 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 **** Grand Chalet: +41 (0)33 748 76 76, hotel@grandchalet.ch **** HOTEL ARC-EN-CIEL: +41 (0)33 748 43 43, www.arc-en-ciel.ch **** Hotel BERNERHOF.: +41 (0)33 748 88 44, info@bernerhof-gstaad.ch **** Hotel Christiania: +41 (0)33 744 51 21, info@christiania.ch **** Hotel GstaadERHOF: +41 (0)33 748 63 63, gstaaderhof@gstaad.ch **** CHALET HOTEL HORNBERG: +41 (0)33 748 66 88, willkommen@hotel-hornberg.ch **** HOTEL OLDEN: +41 (0)33 748 49 50, info@hotelolden.com **** Hotel Steigenberger: +41 (0)33 748 64 64, gstaad@steigenberger.ch *** Hotel Bellerive: +41 (0)33 748 88 33, bellerive-gstaad@bluewin.ch *** Hotel Alpenland: +41 (0)33 765 91 34, hotel@alpenland.ch *** Hotel Alphorn: +41 (0)33 748 45 45, office@gstaad-alphorn.ch *** Hotel Alpine lodge: +41 (0)33 748 41 51, info@alpinelodge.ch *** Hotel Kernen: +41 (0)33 748 40 20, info@hotel-kernen.ch *** Hotel Landhaus: +41 (0)33 748 40 40, landhaus-saanen@bluewin.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, hotel@spitzhorn.ch *** Posthotel Rössli: +41 (0)33 748 42 42, info@posthotelroessli.ch *** SPORTHOTEL VICTORIA: +41 (0)33 748 44 22, info@victoria-gstaad.ch *** Z'loft Hotel: +41 (0)33 744 69 69, info@zloft.ch

Peter Sonnekus-Williams Editor in Chief

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 Sonnekus-Williams peter.sonnekus@gstaadlife.ch; Pro­ject Management and content coordination: Sanet Sonnekus-Williams Columnist: Mandolyna Theodoracopulos Translations: Diana Oehrli Editorial: Anita Moser, Christine Eisenbeis, Daniel von Siebenthal, Léonie Müller, Peter Sonnekus-Williams, Tess Larosse. Polygraph Team: Jonas Bach Printing: Müller Marketing & Druck AG, Gstaad Advertising: Peter Kuntze-Schneider peter.kuntze@gstaadlife.ch, phone 033 744 46 64 Subscriptions: Fabienne Koitka tel. 033 748 88 74

Hotel Bären: +41 (0)33 755 10 33, hotel@baerengsteig.ch Hotel Geltenhorn: +41 (0)33 765 30 22, F: +41 (0)33 765 32 31 Hotel Sanetsch: +41 (0)33 755 10 10, F: +41 (0)33 755 18 11 Hotel Viktoria: +41 (0)33 755 10 34, hotel_viktoria@bluewin.ch Hotel Wildhorn: +41 (0)33 765 30 12, hotel@wildhorn.ch

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Friday 15 July 2011 Page 5

In-depth article

Weekly market in Saanen brings life to car-free village

Executive committee of ‘Saanen Aktiv‘ o Eric Oehrli, President o Manfred Weilguni, Vice-President o Tobias Neuenschwander, Treasurer

Photo: Sheila Matti

It hasn‘t been easy for shopkeepers in Saanen. If a street isn‘t torn apart in one place, it is so in another. Getting through the village has been difficult for pedestrians, and even more so for motor vehicles.

But this won‘t get ‘Saaners‘ down.

To help local shops and to bring life to the village, the group ‘Saanen Aktiv‘ (founded in 2011) and the ‘Dorfverein‘ (village association‘) banded together to start a weekly market, the first of which already took place June 3. Each Friday until the fall, from 8h00 to 12h00, between Hotel Landhaus and Heimatwerk Saanen, stands are laden with fresh meat, fish, vegetables, fruit, dairy products, baked goods, and flowers.

Additional products can be suggested by speaking with members of ‘Saanen Aktiv‘ (see contact info below). Current offerings are intended to supplement those provided by Saanen shops. Further initiativessimilar to the already established ‘Geisse Bons‘ (or Goat Sticker program)-are in the planning stages.

One such idea presented by ‘Saanen Aktiv‘ is the introduction of a special shopping cart that customers could use to facilitate their shopping in the village. Businesses would make the carts available. Such an initiative would only be launched once the Sanona Project is finished. Until then, ‘Saanen Aktiv‘ is committed to actively supporting the village of Saanen and its inhabitants.

Weekly market in Saanen. o Niklas Baumer, Brocante (second-hand market) o Marlies Hermann, owner and farming cooperative o Reto Schneeberger, Saanen Race etc. o Corinne Bürki, Secretary and activity spokesperson (033 748 81 63).

Voters approve plans for Saanen public car park and neighborhood development During a ‘special meeting‘ of the commune on April 15, 189 voters

approved construction plans for the public Saanen car park as well as for the ‘Development No. 69 Flüeli, Saanen,‘ a planned neighborhood, combining residential and commercial office space. Council president Heinz Brand presented the project‘s planning and objectives.

“A neighborhood is to be built on the ‘von-Grünigen-Matte,‘ (the hayfield on the right as you enter Saanen village from the hospital roundabout),” Brand said. “It is to be an independent quarter yet clearly an integrated part of the

village of Saanen.” Two objections were registered during the public input period. “One was removed,” Brand said, “and the other - an objection to the vent opening for the underground public car park - has been turned into a condition that building site ‘Number 11‘ be shifted approximately 10 meters in an easterly direction.” Without further ado, the voters unanimously approved the shifting of building site ‘Number 11‘ - as ordered by the local council - as well as the plans Continued on page 7

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Friday 15 July 2011 Page 6

A prelude to a summer excursion in Gstaad and an encounter with a … cedar Prior to a festival week to run the topography of Saanenland, a few hours in Gstaad in June, for friendly reunions with Denis Burrus, real estate agent, who was seduced a long time ago by this corner of the Pre-Alps. An occasion to enrich our future visits with a few unusual glimpses.

By Jean-Luc Renck, Documentary writer The Pre-Alps around Gstaad, its four confluent valleys, sown with an inheritance of character, are the daily life of Denis Burrus. Happy man! I confess to a little desire, all while looking forward to what he may be able to teach me. Responsible for the mountain real estate at Rham Sotheby‘s International Realty from 1988 to 2006, Denis has woven deep bonds with Gstaad and its surroundings. Notably, they have led him to finally establish his own agency, Burrus & Partners S.A. Like him, I am under the timeless charm of this preserved place, where modernity has inscribed itself only where necessary. I approach it each time via Gruyères and feel always moved by the castle, on guard at the foot of the mountains, and at the entry to Intyamon. “The counts of Gruyère guarded their finances less well,” jokes Denis. “Their bankruptcy was worth the eastern share of the Pays d’Enhaut to their Bernese neighbors.” Also today, passing Château d’Oex then Rougemont, one penetrates the German-spea-

king Saanenland. Towards Saanen, Gstaad, Schönried…

Attracting the top… real estate It is from Rougemont in July, that I, with my two sons, will take the way of the mountain pastures towards Saanenland. I hope the area will instill a durable attachment for them as it did for Denis. From its permanent rooting, a real estate agency was born, therefore, that makes its way well even in Gstaad and its surroundings; “there are 18 agencies today compared to 5 ten years ago” as Denis tells me. “This prestigious market attracted large international agencies. The clientele finds it hard to find its way, but in the long run, it will be able to judge!”

Even better since it is primarily and essentially, stresses Denis, “a clientele that is loyal to Gstaad, in the wake of the international schools like the Rosey, which has had winter quarters in Gstaad since 1916 or the Kennedy School: the families of the pupils become attached to the region. And then to their friends!”

Colossal… discretion!

Before lunch, Denis takes me along where our summer excursion will not take us: among the country cottages with dimensions, nested around the two prestigious hotels: The Palace, on the Oberbort, the Park, on the slope of the Wispile.

While we are engaged on small shady roads, between discrete country chalets, Denis surprises me: “You cannot imagine the spaces dug under many of these residences!” For garages, swimming pools, exercise rooms, passages between chalets…

I think of the late Gruyere, with its famous cheese, which one represents - wrongly- dug with many holes! Two impressive diggings are present on the Oberbort, of which is related to the imminent Alpina residence, which will renew the traditional customers of Gstaad.

Or more precisely, will remind us of the first customers, that of the rich Russian families - and Hungarian who, at the beginning of the twentieth century, had invested with all their Gstaad continuation from now on accessible by train.

Under the aegis of a tree of kings Still, under the shades of the Oberbort, I question Denis about the symbol of his agency: why a cedar? The tree is certainly a mountain dweller, and was a material of prestige in Antiquity, but isn‘t remote, seen from the Alps? Answer in a smile: “Better than any other tree, the cedar incarnates, camped on solid roots, the life, a plenitude which are spread peacefully”. Un-

doubtedly good - and beautiful!

- The image of Burrus & Partners S.A.: leaning on experience, the values of excellence, ethics, the agency is spread and matures, thanks to its many privileged relations with great European families and the jet set ensconced in Gstaad.

We will not have this luxury without age to sleep under a cedar during our festival peregrinations around Gstaad. But we will be able to contemplate the professional currency of Denis at least there: “Your roots with Gstaad!” while letting spread themselves—in an inspiring nature—the echoes of a friendly meeting in June…

BURRUS & PARTNERS LUXURY REAL ESTATE SA Bodestrasse 19, 3780 GSTAAD +41 33 744 37 37 www.burrusandpartners.com

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Friday 15 July 2011 Page 7

gave a rough timetable for further significant construction projects in Saanen: the Sanona project (starting in autumn 2013); the renovations of the Bircherhaus (2012) and of the Saanen train station (2013 or 2014); maintenance work on Campingstrasse and additional Fernwärme heating connections in the village (current year); and the installation of the new water pipeline in the Campingstrasse area (2012).

In addition, various private building projects are planned. A solution has been found for the former ‘La Gare‘ hotel, and Brand said there would be an orientation meeting in July / August. For more information regarding various Saanen projects, please go online to: www.sanona. ch | www.saanen.ch | www.vgminvest.ch

Photo: Jonas Bach

Continued from page 5 of ‘Development No. 69, Flüeli, Saanen.‘ Thus voters approved the placement of residential and office buildings with a private garage on the ‘von-Grünigen-Matte‘, located on the eastern edge of the village.

At the same time, they approved the location, as already approved by the authorities, of a 110-space public underground car park. “You have given the start signal for the development of Saanen,” Brand said, regarding the clear voting result. “Now, it gets into the details.”

In the name of the local council, Brand thanked everyone. “We will not disappoint you,” he added, prompting applause. The building of the car park is planned for 2012 to 2013. The costs for the car park and its access will amount to between SFr. 11 and 13m. Financing credit for the project will come up for public vote at a meeting of the commune in September. Brand

In-depth article

Translated and adapted FROM THE ARTICLES

BY LEONIE MULLER AVS 31.05.11 & ANITA MOSER AVS 19.04.11

Elderly center project on schedule after ‘chalet-like’ adjustments Saanen AG. “The gable is now recognizable, and there will be a projecting roof that comes closer to the local style,” said Markus Iseli, manager. He added that it was nearly impossible to accommodate 20 housing units and 42 care beds within a chalet

structure. “A sloped roof over elderly care rooms is simply impractical,” he added. Out of respect for nearby buildings, Fahrni did not want the roof to be too high.

Iseli confirmed the project to be on schedule. After building permitting, budgets will be presented to the

finance committee by September; financing will be voted on at a December meeting of the commune; construction will begin in spring of 2012; and the center is to be ready for residents by 2013.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE By Christine Eisenbeis AVS 17.05.2011

Photo: zvg

The Saanen local council has voiced support for the most recent architectural plans for the elderly center to be built on land below Saanen Hospital.

More than a year has passed since the hiring of Heinz Fahrni, the Steffisburg-based architect and project bid winner. Noting that sloped roofs in Saanenland held a high value, Fahrni designed a building with a kind of hipped roof. It was this roof that triggered discussions and prompted the local council to ask Fahrni to rework his plans. Now, the center is to have a more ‘chalet-like’ gable roof, except its pitch will be flatter than typical ones in Saanenland.

“The architects have achieved large effects with just a few changes,” said Bethli Küng, president of the board of directors of Alterszentrum

The elderly center is to be built on the Davidsmatte, the field below Saanen Hospital.

Unique artistic images of mood and emotion.

Including scenes of Gstaad, Saanenland & Pays-d‘Enhaut.

For further information and details of exhibitions and limited large commissions visit www.view-finder.ch and contact us via info@view-finder.ch.

To see images on display also visit Basta at the Bernerhof Hotel.

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mCCOLLIN bRyAN “Promenade Design”

30 July – 27 August 2011 Mon – Sat, 11 am – 1 pm/3 – 6 pm

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LOCAL NEWS

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 9

Book Review. Nine Lives - Author Dan Fox.

By Peter Sonnekus-Williams There is a qualifying line on the cover of the book Nine Lives, which reads - a journey through life. This line I believe tells us a lot about the writer‘s courage as a journey through life is a pretty big topic to write about. Dan Fox however shows his mettle in this, his first book and has produced a novel that not only embraces a topic of great magnitude, but does it in a way that the reader is able to personally associate on many levels with both the characters in the story as well as the colorful and dramatic places that make up the setting of the novel.

Gstaad features in the story in more than one instance, however Hong Kong, London, Paris, Venice and rural Ireland make up the majority of the backdrop. Like any good piece of art, Nine Lives provokes personal interpretation and this is where the writer intentionally or not, grips the reader in a unique and disarming manner, provoking self-compari-

son in what is a modern contemporary story of love and life.

Before I wrote this review, I took a look at some of the other reviews the book received.

I only found good ones of which the common thread is the recognition of self as the story unfolds. It seems to me that Dan Fox has found a unique way of capturing the life of modern man and woman and the complex emotional states that we all experience in love, life, ambition and destiny. Particularly striking in the story is the reflection of man and woman in love, what commonality bonds them and what chasms of difference can exist in what drives them.

I enjoyed Nine Lives immensely; it is a fine story, cleverly conceived with an intriguing set of characters. “Congratulations Dan Fox on a great piece of work, I am sure that many people from around the world will be entertained and emotionally enriched by this story from an Englishman in the Swiss Alps”.

Promenade Design Urs von Unger welcomes for the summer season McCollin Bryan, a duo of London-based British designers appreciated by an international clientele for their design furniture.

This “Promenade design” is an invitation to discover a selection of their furniture and design objects.

The pre-occupation of these creators with materials, as much as with shape and function, has led them to hand craft and finish contemporary materials such as resin rather than use industrial processes. Working with traditional materials such as scagliola (used since Roman times and popular in

the 18th century to imitate marble) they create bold and inventive contemporary pieces.

For this event McCollin Bryan has been inspired to design Ermintrude, a table/stool in a limited edition of 20.

Exhibition from 30 July to 27 August 2011 Urs von Unger Gallery Kleines Landhaus, Dorfstrasse 71, 3792 Saanen

Local News

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 10

Antiquités – Décoration – Curiosités Main Showroom - Rotlistrasse 1a - 3780 Gstaad Tel. 033 744 60 00 Other Showrooms in Saanen at Chalet Flora, next to the JFK School and in Rougemont at Le Comptoir d’Enhaut.

Daniel von Siebenthal from Gstaad wrote;

In the men’s competition The Brazilians Emanuel Rego and Alison Cerutti win Grand Slam 2011 in Gstaad. They defeated the Americans Todd Rogers and Phil Dalhausser in straight sets 22:20 and 21:19.

Photo: Jonas Bach

‘I breed cows that are genetically horn free (polled). It should not be subsidized since horns were not always found on a cow. Even in the past, horn free (naturally polled) populations have always existed. British White, Angus or Norwegian Red are examples of such populations today. Horns had practical purposes and were bred in times when the cow was used as a “horse“ to pull goods. The yoke was easier attached to cows with horns. Also when kept in barns where the cows were attached, they could not slide their head out

of the attachment easily which allowed for the cord to be less tight around the neck. The World Simmental Federation (not the same as the local pure Simmental) has already introduced polled genetics for many decades. So this discussion is a purely cultural discussion that has nothing to do with the well- being of the animal. It is not bad to have this discussion but the state should not subsidize cultural preferences. By the way the local Saanen goat is for the most part naturally polled with some that still carry horns. They seem very happy to me‘.

FIVB Beach Volleyball Swatch World Tour - 1to1energy Grand Slam Photo: Jonas Bach

Reader’s Comment: ‘Should taxpayers ­subsidize farmers who own cows with horns?’

The winners of the woman’s Grand Slam 1tot1 energy are the Brazilians Larissa Franca and Juliana Felisberta Silva.

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 11

LOCAL NEWS

‘Gstaad is anchored in the hearts of the players’ Two weeks after the Beach Volleyball Grand Slam, balls will be served again and this time, at the Crédit Agricole Suisse Open Gstaad. Tournament changes include a new title sponsor as well as a reduced main draw, consisting of 28 instead of 32 players.

The four best-seeded athletes will go directly to the play offs or to the round of 16. Tournament vice director Julien Finkbeiner reveals more in an interview with our sister publication, the Anzeiger von Saanen.

Are you able to sleep well during the weeks before the tournament?

With practice, one sleeps better!

The organization of a tournament of this caliber does not allow for any improvisation. It encompasses work of a longer duration and requires deep breaths. For this, we are readying ourselves. But this is a positive stress.

Which player are you particularly excited about, and/or who is your secret favorite?

We have many clay court specialists, who will guarantee a fantastic show. But as vice director of Crédit Agricole Suisse Open Gstaad, I must, obviously, remain objective, even when I like to watch certain players play. For example, I am looking forward to watching Fernando Verdasco. In 2010, he could not participate, unfortunately, due to an injury. Nicolas Almagro will also be present, and with his constant and solid game, it will be enjoyable to follow his progress on court.

How were the negotiations with players this year, and how does the ATP calendar affect the

tournament in Gstaad?

The negotiations were difficult; yet, we are very satisfied with the result. We have the chance to celebrate the return of Stanislas Wawrinka to Gstaad and we can count on the presence of numerous Spanish players. That Crédit Agricole Suisse Open Gstaad is a part of the European clay court tour gives these top athletes the benefit of one last tournament on this surface and to win maximum points before they go to the hard court. It is an attractive tournament and counts in its category as one of the five best in the world, which allows us to bring players of the highest caliber. I believe Gstaad to be anchored in the hearts of the players and this is very important for us.

Based on the participation list, would you describe the slogan for the tournament as: “today’s champions meet the stars of tomorrow?”

For us, Thomaz Bellucci is the best example. Two years ago, he won the Gstaad tournament as number 122 of the ATP. Today, he is ranked in the top 20. This year, today’s champions, like Wawrinka and Verdasco, have responded. The stars of tomorrow will emerge in time. We work closely with Swiss Tennis to offer four wild cards for the qualification of young talent, who have yet to win ATP points in their careers.

What are the highlights of the side events?

We can count this year on the unbelievable pilots of the PC7 team with their Pilatus planes, who will offer a sensational spectacle shortly before the final. Likewise, we are preparing a surprise for the resi-

dents of Gstaad and the surrounding area for the first Sunday of the tournament. Starting at 17h00, we invite all to an aperitif and to the official player presentation in the tournament village.

Local stands were included in the tennis tournament village last year. Which additions can we expect this year?

The village will have a new look. It will be more open to the public and will therefore become a component of Gstaad and the Promenade. The VIP zone will be made up of a twostoried tent, and for the public, there will be a Corona Lounge that will be open every evening.

This year, August 1 (Swiss National Day) doesn’t coincide with the tournament. The August 1 brunch will not be part of the events on the final Sunday. Why can we nevertheless still be excited on that final Sunday?

The tournament village will open already at 9h00 and the public has the possibility to start the day there with a coffee and a croissant. Subsequently, a PC7 team airshow will take place above the Crédit Agricole Suisse arena.

What are the biggest changes we can expect this year?

We have changed from a 32-player main draw to a 28-player one, the consequence of which is that the best-seeded players will start directly in the playoffs or in the round of 16. And as already mentioned before, the tournament ‘village’ will be completely rearranged for the public to create more openness.

In the coming year, there will be

a calendar shift, yet again. Is this a curse or a blessing?

The 2012 Crédit Agricole Suisse Open Gstaad will take place July 1422. We had to shift the tournament one week earlier because of the international sports calendar and of the Olympic games. On a sporting level, this does not change anything in regards to organization and player participation. It is, however, a big advantage for tourism in Gstaad.

With the Beach Volley Ball Grand Slam and the tennis tournament, the season begins already at the beginning of July and the spectators of these events can be added to the usual summer tourists.

Which is your most beautiful anecdote from six years of tennis in Gstaad?

My most beautiful anecdote remains the victory of Victor Hanescu in 2008! He won the tournament when he came alone to Gstaad without his coach or support team. By the way, his goal was—after the victory—to drive one of the new official Renaults to Zürich Airport. The roles switched and thus his driver received a beautiful trip at the side of the 2008 winner and the tournament trophy.

Which player would you wish for, if you still had a free wish?

Naturally, to see Roger Federer in Gstaad again. This would be a marvelous opportunity and an honor for the tournament.

And which is your main desire for this year’s tournament?

Beautiful weather, exciting games, and a Swiss victory!

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE INTERVIEW by CHRISTINE EISENBEIS AVS 24.06.11

SINE TEMPORE

de Kostine & Partner 3792 Saanen T茅l +41(0)33 744 96 69 Fax +41(0)33 744 35 10 Mobile +41(0)79 310 28 42 dekostine@sinetempore.ch www.sinetempore.ch

real estate

CONFECTION | SPORTBEKLEIDUNG Tr adition elle s aus der Regio n u nd d er g an zen Schw eiz, authent is ch, echt u nd fris ch.

Hotel Landhaus | Dorfstrasse 74 | CH-3792 Saanen | Tel. 033 748 40 40 | Fax 033 748 40 49 www.landhaus-saanen.ch | info@landhaus-saanen.ch

Original Swiss Handicraft Heimatwerk Saanen Dorfstrasse 62 路 3792 Saanen Phone and Fax 033 744 13 73 Heimatwerk Gstaad alte Lauenenstrasse 5 路 3780 Gstaad Phone 033 748 15 90

SAANEN Tel. 033 744 16 87 | Fax 033 744 09 89 GSTAAD

Tel. 033 744 22 73 zwahlenhueni@bluewin.ch | www.zwahlenhueni.ch

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 13

LOCAL NEWS

Swiss Alpine Flora

BY PETER SONNEKUS-WILLIAMS The definition of an Alpine plant given in the Quarterly Bulletin of the British Alpine Garden Society as far back as 1937 stated that the term Alpine refers to “a manner of life and to the taking of a form necessary to live that life” - but that in itself does not provide a simple definition, which remained debatable ever since.

The range of plants found in the Swiss Alps is pretty huge. Of course one might expect this in a country whose climate, soil and altitude varies from region to region and, in some instances, from one valley to the next. Plant friendly limestone may dominate in one district and Igneous rocks in another. Habitats vary from shady woodlands to desert scree, from damp grassland to arctic rock, from glacial moraine to the marshy fringes of mountain lakes, from a sunny cliff or stretch of limestone slabs to an acid valley bog. Each climatic and geographic circumstance gives rise to unique flora.

Mountains create their own microclimates. One side may be damp whilst the other side completely protected. A south-facing hillside

will be different from the opposite, north-facing slope, and on a mountainside the seasons change, not only by calendar, but also by altitude. All these factors have an effect on the plant life, as does grazing in the Alpine pastures and cultivation of the soil.

In the lower valleys soldanellas, primulas, crocus, anemones and others come into flower early in the year as the snow melts, and having bloomed they wither and all but disappear, with only their leaves remaining hidden beneath the new grass of the meadowlands. But as the season advances and the snow recedes, so the same flowers appear higher up the hillside. By midJune or July, alongside many other plants, they color the upper pastures of the Alps before the cattle are brought up for summer grazing.

Before the end of July most of the pasture flowers will have gone, but it is then that the screes, moraine walls and rock faces display their own special Alpine flora.

The famed Edelweiss (Leontopodium alpinum), identified by its woolly grey flowers is usually found, however not exclusively, on limestone.

Edelweiss may be seen clustered in the short grasses overlooking a glacier, or huddled along a cliff face. Its distribution in Switzerland ranges from the Engadine to the Bernese Alps, flourishing between 1‘700 and 3‘400 meters.

Forming cushions over rocks and screes, the moss campion (Silene acaulis) is a mass of eye catching pink in a bed of deep green. The common houseleek (Sempervivum tectorum) decorates otherwise drab moraine when they produce their stalk of bright pink rosette flower heads in summer.

The widely distributed pasque flower comes in several forms. Pulsatilla vernalis, or the spring pasque flower, has its white petals often flushed a pale violet on the outside, while the alpine pasque flower (Pulsatilla alpina) is protected from the cold by a coating of tiny hairs.

The tiny alpine snowbell (Soldanella alpina) on the other hand has no apparent protection, even though it often pushes its way through the melting snowfields. Its tassled petals vary from violet to pink-blue depending on habitat, for it may be found on sites as diverse as shallow

pockets of limestone, and damp pastures up to 3‘000 meters.

The lily family is another regularly spotted meadow resident that comes in a great variety of forms, including asphodel, crocus, fritillary and scilla. The claret-headed martagon lily (Lilium martagon) appears in shady woodland glades while the extravagant, showy orange lily (Lilium bulbiferum) adorns grassy terraces.

The gentian is even more numerous in variety than the lily, and in Switzerland is represented by such extremes as the tall, multi-flowered great yellow gentian (Gentiana lutea), whose starry flowers burst from an upright stem, to the tiny, delicate blue favorite, the spring gentian (Gentiana verna), and deep royal blue of the trumpet gentian (Gentiana kochiana), that sometimes appears to have practically no stem at all, but produces flowers almost as it emerges from the turf.

These are a few examples of the spectacular floral extravaganza that unfolds before us year on year as we gaze across the Alps.

Advertorial

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 14

Welcome to Credit Suisse in Gstaad.

The Ultimate Private Banking Service for National and International Clients.

Mr. Janson, how important is Gstaad for Credit Suisse?

Philipp Janson: Credit Suisse has had a presence in the canton of Berne since 1919, and tourist destinations such as Gstaad-Saanenland have been extremely important to the bank ever since. With the investment in our branch, which was completely renovated over the course of four months and reopened for business on June 27 this year, Credit Suisse reaffirmed its commitment to the region as a whole and especially to Gstaad as a location.

have now settled in the Bernese Oberland and lived here for many years.

Those strong local roots on the part of our employees, a multilingual team, our broad-based expertise, and the backing of an international network, make us the partner of choice for financial matters.

Credit Suisse Global Research is a perfect example of that international network in action, providing us with the very latest background information on global market trends on a daily basis, which is absolutely crucial in the banking business.

What makes the Private Banking team in Gstaad so special?

Philipp Janson: Every year, countless tourists come to Gstaad on vacation. Why? Because Gstaad is one of the most beautiful and relaxing places in the world.

My employees know that, too.

Most of them have studied and trained at home and abroad, but

What can you offer your clients in the way of added value?

Philipp Janson: Many of our clients have an international background, and are particularly discerning when it comes to their investments and financing. In today‘s rapidly changing, highly complex environment, the ability to deliver a fast, professional and, above all, well-

connected service is more important than ever. Thanks to the Credit Suisse “one bank“ strategy, based on close collaboration between Private Banking, Asset Management and Investment Banking, we are able to offer each and every client bespoke financial solutions, perfectly tailored to their individual needs.

Furthermore, our team has rapid, direct access to experts specializing in taxation, relocation, financial and estate planning.

At the beginning, you mentioned that the Gstaad branch recently underwent a four-month renovation. What can clients expect from the revamped premises?

Philipp Janson: The redesigned interior now has a clearer layout, and the technical facilities have been modernized.

On the ground floor is the counter area, with a reception and advisory desk, and the bank counters. In the 24-hour area, clients can use the two ATMs for deposits and withdrawals. These are also equipped with a special audio port feature for the blind and visually impaired. Every room also has disabled access.

On the first floor is the client area with five meeting rooms, while the new staff offices are on the second floor. All the building management

Philipp Janson, Managing ­Director, Head International Clients Mittelland & Gstaad, Tel. 033 748 97 58, philipp.janson@credit-suisse.com systems have also been upgraded, to meet the highest environmental standards.

We will be holding an Open Day on Saturday, July 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., when people can come along and see the new-look premises and all the new facilities for themselves.

We look forward to welcoming you to our newly renovated branch in Gstaad, where we hope we will have the opportunity to provide you with individually tailored advice you can trust. Why not come along to our Open Day on Saturday, July 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and see what we have to offer?

The Benefits at a Glance: · A specialist team with strong local roots and a wealth of experience in national and global Private Banking The Credit Suisse Gstaad Team. A team of ten are on hand to assist Credit Suisse clients from the Gstaad branch (from left to right): Christian Frey; Barbara Zeller; Tommy Oehrli; Simon Bachmann, Trainee; Pascal Clerc; Monika Brand; Manuel Renfer; Dimitri van Woerden; Philipp Janson, Head International Clients Mittelland & Gstaad; Franziska Gerber (missing in the picture).

· Close collaboration between Private Banking, Asset Management, and Investment Banking · A proactive advisory concept, underpinned by the very best prod­ ucts and services in their class · A dedicated, local contact person with an international network of contacts and direct access to expert know-how worldwide

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 15

Advertorial

Summer sensations at the Gstaad Palace

Summer Sunday Brunch.

Every Sunday from 11h00 in July and August, a Sunday brunch will be served on the spectacular Gstaad Palace terrace. A sumptuous buffet and grilled specialities will be served accompanied by traditional Swiss music.

Animations will be available for the younger guests.

Swiss National Day 1st August.

The Scherz family welcomes guests to the Gstaad Palace to celebrate the 1st August with a cocktail in the beautiful gardens of the Gstaad Palace.

From 20h15 a special buffet dinner will be held in the Gstaad Palace restaurants and on the grand terrace followed by a spectacular firework display at 22h15. For reservation +41 (0)33 748 50 00.

Walig Hut. A charming traditional Alpine refuge hut located above Gsteig at 1700m, managed by the Gstaad Palace offers lunches and dinner. For Lunch a luxury picnic is served with bread, cheese, cold cuts, salad, fruits, dessert, coffee, Swiss wine and mineral water. Whilst dinner includes a 3 course traditional mountain faire menu together with Swiss wines and mineral water.

A truly peaceful Alpine experience. For reservation +41 (0)33 748 50 00.

Wellness day.

For a reasonable price you can enjoy an unforgettable day at the Gstaad Palace Spa and beautiful Olympic size outdoor pool. The wellness day package includes a massage together with an exfoliation with Alpine salt and a light 3 course lunch and soft drink at the Snack and Barbeque. Package is SFr 240 – per person and is subject to availability. For reservations +41 (0)33 748 58 90.

Marc Rosset Kids tennis Week.

In association with tennis mrb concept, a tennis clinic aimed at children from 7 to 16 years managed by MarcRosset and Frederic Bouvier, will take place this summer. Swiss, Marc Rosset has won numerous titles at ATP tournaments and a gold medal at the Olympic Games of Barcelona. His associates and himself will be present and will make every effort to convey their passion for tennis and sport to the young participants. For reservations +41 (0)33 748 58 90.

LOCAL NEWS

July 12011 Gerax_SA_Gstaad_Life_206_139_mm_Layout 1 01.07.11Friday 08:4815Seite Page 16

SALES I RENTALS I ADMINISTRATION THE ADDRESS FOR YOUR HOME IN GSTAAD SINCE 1970

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GERAX S.A. REAL ESTATE GSTAAD

Gschwendstrasse 2 I T +41 (0)33 748 45 50 I F +41 (0)33 748 45 51 I info@gerax.ch I www.gerax.ch

Traditional Thai Body Oil Aroma NEU: Thai Herbal POTJAMARN from Thailand

Foot Reflexology Partial or Full Body

Curtain opens at Wildhorn Hotel On June 10, the Hotel Wildhorn in Lauenen opened its doors under new management. New leaseholders are celebrity actors Isabelle

Acupressure Facial Massage

New ticket offices at Gstaad train station

Celebrity actors Hans Schenker and Isabelle von Siebenthal take over management of the Wildhorn Hotel in Lauenen.

von Siebenthal (Saanenland-born) and Hans Schenker, known locally for their appearances on popular Swiss soap Lüthi und Blanc. Fulfilling a life-long dream to own a small hotel, they plan to continue their acting careers while managing the Lauenen landmark. Moving into 10 of the hotel rooms, the couple aims to keep a pleasant and calm atmosphere in the building. They see the hotel as a place to find inspiration, to relax, and to work. They have installed free Wi-Fi throughout. In July, teachers from the Menuhin Academy will live and practice there. Part of the “Wildhorn concept” is the holding of cultural events twice a month in the large hall.

TRANSLATED AND ADAPTED FROM THE ARTICLE

BY CHRISTINE EISENBEIS AVS 07.06.2011

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 17

LOCAL PERSONALITY

The Next Big Thing…

Photos: zvg

The Interview – by Tess Larosse Music star manager Nik Mi- more perfect, as the sun set over chault and singer songwriter Lac Leman, Jack Savoretti young, Jack Savoretti, in interview. handsome and looking extremely relaxed launched into his first song Summer is finally here and festival ‘’knock knock’’ - a fusion, for me of fever is all around us! This month Elvis meets, Buddy Holly but with I has decided to write about peo- a modern twist. From then on, he ple involved in the music industry. had the crowd hooked – they loved Whether it’s classical music, rock, this band! pop or jazz it is a secret passion I caught up with manager Nik Miof mine. chault, and singer songwriter Jack, Nik Michault grew up between Lon- fresh from the enthralling live perdon, Switzerland’s Berner Oberland formance at the Montreux Jazz and Pays D’Enhaut, which have Festival. since become a home from home for him. His family have lived in Tess Larosse : Nik, it’s good to Rossiniere, Lauenen, Rougemont see you here, what a crowd ! and Chateau D’Oex over a few gen- How did you get into the music erations and Nik spent several years business? in Gstaad living and studying at Nik Michault : I was working with L’Institut Le Rosey. friends that I had met through When he returned to London for school, who then in turn introUniversity, he began working with duced me to Jack. My partner Dan bands and soon met singer/ song- and I formed Push Music Managewriter Jack Savoretti. Jack and Nik ment. became friends and subsequently TL : How do you think Jack’s began to work together. Nik started show went tonight ? out working as his tour manager NM : I thought it went really well, and later took over Jack’s Manage- there are lots of people that already ment. The rest, as they say is his- know Jack and his music, but obvitory, and recently, I can honestly ously, loads of new ones who don’t, say, I felt that I was part of history it’s really fantastic ! in the making as I watched Jack Sa- T L : Do you feel Jack’s going to voretti and his band perform to a be ‘’the next big thing’’ ? huge crowd at the Montreux Jazz NM : Oh, most definitely, or we Festival’s famous ‘’Concert in the wouldn’t be doing this, he is such a Park’’ venue. dedicated performer, and puts absoThe evening could not have been lutely everything into what he does

The band onstage at Montreux.

TL : What attracted you to his music ?

NM : We met at a friend’s party, and I saw something incredible, very special.

TL : What do you do when you’re up in Gstaad ?

NM : I just chill out....we’re going up with the whole band tonight.

Tess Larosse : Jack, a pleasure to meet you, and congratulations on a fantastic live performance ! What a venue… how was the show for you, and what does it feel like to perform at MJF ?

Jack Savoretti : Thank you....it’s really great, Montreux is a place that I have always wanted to play – tonight with the sun-set and the lake, it really couldn’t get any better than this !

We bumped into Ricky Martin too, he’s playing tonight in the Stravinsky TL : Have you met the big man himself....Mr Claude Nobs ?

JS : No, not yet....we’re just not that famous ! I have no idea who he is....or if he exists, he’s like Zorro, but he’s the boss !

TL : I read somewhere that your mother gave you your first guitar, who inspires you musically ?

JS : Yes, she did, and she suggested I try putting some words to the music. I admire people like Simon and Garfunkel, especially Paul Simon – also performers like Lucio Battisti, and other ‘’Euro-folk’’ musicians. I’d love to write a track like ‘’ Things have changed’’ by Bob Dylan - he’s my alter ego....

TL : What’s next for you...more festivals perhaps...?

JS : That would be great....and this Festival is so well-run, like clockwork, everyone is really cool, there’s no prejudice, all the greats have played here. I can’t wait to come back ! We’re also, we’re working

Jack Savoretti

Nik Michault on a new deal with Steve Booker ( Duffy ) and by early next year, we hope to release a new, third album.

As the crowds petered out, and the techno bar cranked up the sounds in the distance, echoing over the water, I had the distinct feeling that Jack Savoretti and his band are on a fast upward climb to bigger things, he’s definitely my type of musician !

I wish this truly charming and talented singer the best of luck, although somehow, I don’t think he’ll need it…

Watch this space, as they say !

Nik Michault and Jack Savoretti were interviewed by Tess Larosse backstage at the Montreux Jazz Festival.

For more information please see : www.jacksavoretti.com and www. pushmusicmanagement.com

Column

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 18

My Top Holiday Hotspots

BY MANDOLYNA THEODORACOPULOS When I was growing up we used to go cal favorites remain, while others have to Southampton on Long Island during been replaced by big chains. Despite the summer. We also spent time in Italy everything that has changed, fortuand Greece, and here in Gstaad. Of the nately my fond memories remain. I four, not one particular place stands haven’t been back in almost a decade out as the best, but they are all spe- but what I remember when I think of cial in a different way. When summer Southampton is the musty stink of the is about, most places are wonderful. sand dunes, and the smell of freshly Even the swelter of an August day in cut grass in the late afternoon sun.

New York City has its appeal. When it’s The South Fork of Long Island is a very really hot and the masses leave town, pretty place, colored by the landscape, the city feels like it belongs to no one architecture, and its history. Now it is but you; particularly on weekends overrun by city slickers, but I like to when the streets are wide and open think its true nature is kept alive by the and free for one to walk unescorted by wild, roaring, rumbling Atlantic Ocean. the usual bustle. Finding respite from the heat in an empty and over-cooled The first time I went to St. Tropez was cinema for a matinee show or stepping in late September. It was still warm, onto the subway from the stifling plat- and the sun was shining. All the tourform is a little bit of bliss. All but a few ists had come and gone and it was tourists remain, the others have es- simply perfect. Just a few sailboats caped to cooler shores, of which there bobbed in the charming little harbor are undoubtedly many beautiful ones. and I walked around the local streets In no particular order, my favorite get- looking for the best Tarte Tropezienne aways sound like some sort of fancy I could find. I thought I might have jet-set list, though they just happen seen an old Brigitte Bardot walking to be places I love and usually go back along the back streets, but it was just to mid year. I hope the hoity-toityness an anonymous French beauty. I disof the list will somehow dissuade you covered many wonderful shops like from going to these ports of call, the the vintage cotton place across from last thing they need are more tourists! La Ponche, my favorite little hotel. I I try to remember Southampton as it was before Puffy Daddy and his ilk popularized the Hamptons. Rich folk probably ruined it long before him but it was back then, in the late 90s, when I felt some of its soul was lost because of all the money and p.r. that came to the South Fork. Before that we rode around on bicycles without a worry because people drove slowly and the place was safe. We’d go to the beach club and play tennis, horseback ride in the afternoon or just swim at home in the pool or play baseball in the garden. We’d eat at Paul’s Pizza or Driver’s Seat and hang out at Long Island Sound where we bought cassette tapes and records. Some of these lo-

watched old men play petanque on the Place des Lices and it was then that I decided the cemetery that looks out from town onto the sea was the most divine place to be buried. Getting to know such a famous place the way I did seems better than getting to know it during the high season when its essence can be obscured. There are plenty of hidden secrets in St. Tropez, but even the famous ones are terrific. With the right group of friends, Le 55, Les Caves du Roy and the scene at the Byblos are good fun. But since spending extended periods of time in St. Tropez in the summer requires the bank account of a Russian billionaire, I kept on my search for the perfect island getaway.

I love Ibiza. I love Ibiza for so many reasons I can hardly think of another place I would prefer to own a summer house. Actually, I am writing to you from here now. This time I am staying in Sant Miquel, in the North. This area is said to be the more spiritual part of the island. I’m not sure the whole place isn’t downright spiritual, Ibiza even has its own god and goddess, Bes and Tanit respectively. The Balearics, or Pitiusas, are totally magical. I feel excited and happy the moment my plane’s wheels touchdown on the tarmac at Ibiza airport. The thing about Ibiza though, is you have to love to drive. The island is relatively small but the distances are far. It is always a new discovery to come here. No two trips are ever alike.

They are always revelatory in some way, and full of laughter, dancing, eating and sun. In Ibiza, the night sky seems especially vibrant and shooting stars are frequent and easy to see. The beauty of the Ibicenco night can only be compared to its fertile landscape.

The red earth is teaming with animals and splendid Mediterranean vegetation. With so much to see, it can be hard to sleep in Ibiza. Every hour of the day invites one to observe its beauty, and from dawn until dusk, when a purple glow rests above the greenery, one hopes the holiday will go on forever.

From the nearby island of Formentera to Es Vedra, Atlantis, and the variety of coves and beaches to discover, I often wonder if I will ever fully know the magnificence of the island. Even its history is grand, it was discovered by the Phoenicians, and being a valuable point of commerce, has been fought over by the Moors, Vandals, Romans, and the Carthaginians among others.

Ibiza has many myths. Some say Hannibal was born here. The stories go on and on, and so too the myriad marvels waiting to be found out by those who truly love and understand the hippy spirit of the island.

The only other clime I have been to where the place’s energy made me want to stay up all night is Patmos, in Greece. It is quite a small island and impossible to get to quickly.

Saint John is said to have written the Apocalypse there and so a sort of religious quality suffuses the place.

High above John’s cave, which lies between the harbor and the main village, a giant stone monastery prevails despite being shrouded by mysterious rumors and tales of quarreling monks. Patmos was “discovered” in the 60s and 70s by well-to-do bohemians and homosexuals and has since been rediscovered by similar people from Greece and around the world. When I went to Patmos, I fell in love. Not only with a person, but with the gossip, the architecture, the light, the bad food, the views, and the cold brilliant blue sea. Like every great seaside destination, it is overrun with Italians. During late summer they take over the platea, the main square in the Chora, though they prefer calling it the piazzetta. Every evening beautiful young things gather to drink and make merry with friends and strangers alike. The island is small enough where after only a few days one has seen almost everyone who is ashore. The atmosphere is infectious and intense, like the heat. My favorite moments there are always around the Panagia (one of the titles of Mary), an Orthodox celebration on the 15th of August.

And just as the warm season comes to a close, Gstaad is my favorite place to be. The mountains in summer are almost more beautiful than in winter.

One just cant help but be outside to enjoy the endless greenery, cool lakes, and flowing rivers. And if that’s not enough, you have the music, tennis, polo, and my personal favorite, skeet shooting!

Events

Friday 15 July 2011 Page 19

Events Calendar FRIDAY, JULY 15 – SUNDAY, JULY 17 Davidoff Saveurs – Gourmet at diverse localities in Gstaad. Famous chefs will tickle your taste buds with their exquisite cuisine.

Reservation possible, contact +41 (0)33 744 68 32 for more i­nformation. www.davidoffsaveurs.ch THURSDAY, JULY 14 – THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27 Guided village tour Saanen & visit to the museum: Every Thursday at 16h00-18h00.

Adults SFr 14, Children SFr 8. For further info, contact +41 (0)33 748 81 60 JULY 15 – AUGUST 05 Weekly market in Saanen from 08h0012h00: Sale of local and fresh products from the region in the center of Saanen. For more info, contact +41 (0)33 744 74 48 or email saanen@gstaad.ch WEDNESDAY, JULY 20, 27 & AUGUST 3 Alp visit with breakfast above Gsteig, each Wednesday during the months of July and August. Rate SFr 8.50 - SFr 16. Reservation possible. For more info contact +41 (0)33 755 81 81.

MONDAY, JULY 18 – FRIDAY, JULY 22 & MONDAY, JULY 25 – FRIDAY, JULY 29 Learn camp in Turbach. For more information: www.kine-thun-gstaad.ch Reservation possible.

FRIDAY, JULY 15 – SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 3 55th Menuhin Festival Gstaad: A classical music festival with world-famous artists, throughout different venues in the Saanenland.

For more info, contact +41 (0)33 748 83 38 or www.menuhinfestivalgstaad.com FRIDAY, JULY 15 - SUNDAY JULY 17 Swiss Championship 2011 of the Paraglider club, Gstaad. The Paraglider club Gstaad organizes the Swiss Club-Championship. For more information, www.gcgstaad.ch or contact +41 (0)33 744 73 81.

FRIDAY, JULY 15 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad Opening Concert: Boléro – Katia & Marielle Labeque.

Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-125.

SATURDAY, JULY 16 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Beethoven’s early symphonies – Geovanni Antonini. Orchestral concert. Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-160.

SATURDAY, JULY 16 10h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Matinée des Jeunes Étoiles I – Anke Pan. Venue: Gstaad kapelle. Rate: SFr 30.

SATURDAY, JULY 16 10h00: Opening of the Gstaad Skatepark at Oeyetli. Evening party starting @ 21h00 with “Creedy Bees” jam and grill all day long!

For information, contact +41 (0)79 307 46 08.

SUNDAY, JULY 17 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Carnaval

Friday July 15 2011 until Friday August 5 2011

des animaux in der Schreinerei. Venue: Chaletbau Matti. Rate: SFr 50-100.

SUNDAY, JULY 17 10h00: Summer feast of folk music in the Restaurant “Col du Pillon”, Gsteig. Reservation desired, contact +41 (0)33 744 56 39.

TUESDAY, JULY 19 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Menuhin’s Heritage I – Buona Sera Signor Paganini. Venue: Rougemont church. Rate: SFr 30-70.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 20 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Top of Switzerland I – Tecchler Trio. Venue: Rougemont church. Rate: SFr 30-70.

THURSDAY, JULY 21 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Recital Grygory Sokolov, Piano. Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-160.

SATURDAY, JULY 23 10h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Matinée des jeunes Étoiles II – Maria Cecilia Munoz. Venue: Gstaad kapelle. Rate: SFr 30.

SATURDAY, JULY 23 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Menuhin’s heritage II – der Tod und das Mädchen. Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-125.

SATURDAY, JULY 23 – SUNDAY, JULY 31 Crédit Agricole Suisse Open Gstaad for stop “Rare”. This high-class tournament has a reputation for great men’s tennis. Venue: Roy Emerson Arena, Gstaad. Booking info, contact +41 (0)33 748 08 60.

SUNDAY, JULY 24 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Bach Solo – Miklós Perényi, Violincello. Venue: Lauenen church. Rate: SFr 30-70.

SUNDAY, JULY 24 11h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Menuhin school London on the Alps. Venue: Berghaus Wispile. Free entry.

MONDAY, JULY 25 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Sabine Meyer. Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-125.

TUESDAY, JULY 26 – WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3 Circus “Gasser Olympia” is in Gstaad.

Venue: Circus tent, Gstaadstrasse/Bellerivestrasse. Reservation possible. Door opens 1 hr prior to the start of the program. Contact +41 (0)79 372 91 71.

FRIDAY, JULY 29 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Menuhin’s Heritage III – Trumpet glamour.

Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-125.

SATURDAY, JULY 30 10h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad with Olga Sheps, Piano. Venue: Gstaad kapelle. Rate: SFr 30.

SATURDAY, JULY 30 & MONDAY, AUGUST 1 19h00 & 09h00: Theatre on the farm: Venue: Michel’s Stallbeizli. Rate: SFr 28.

Reservation required, contact +41 (0)33 744 16 83.

SATURDAY, JULY 30 19h30-23h00: Folklore evening at Hotel Alpenland, Lauenen. Contact +41 (0)33 765 91 34 for more info.

SATURDAY, JULY 30 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad with Renaud Capuçon (Violin) & Khatia Buniatishvili (Piano). Venue: Saanen church.

Rate: SFr 40-125.

SUNDAY, JULY 31 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad with Martin Stadtfeld, Piano. Venue: Lauenen church.

Rate: SFr 30-70.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 18h00: National Swiss Day in Turbach: Aperitiff from 18h00, following by fire works – an evening for everyone! Venue: WintermatteBeizli, Turbach. Contact +41 (0)33 748 81 81 for more info.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 National Swiss Day in Schönried. Venue: Spielplatz, Geschichtsweg. Contact +41 (0)33 748 81 39 for more info.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 Farmers Brunch at the Kapälliplatz, Gstaad. Traditional brunch of farmers with their products. Rate: SFr 15-23. For more info, contact +41 (0)33 744 51 94.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 10h00: National Swiss Day with a market in Lauenen: Contact +41 (0)33 765 91 81 for more info.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 16h45: National Swiss Day in Saanen village. An evening for everyone with fire works, live music and much more! Contact +41 (0)33 748 81 60 for more information.

MONDAY, AUGUST 1 – SUNDAY,

TUESDAY, JULY 26 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Sabine Meyer, Clarinet. Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-125.

AUGUST 11 Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Amateur Orchestra Week in cooperation with the EOV. Venue: different locations in Gstaad. Final concert: Sunday August 7 at 11h30 in the Gstaad festival tent. Free admission. For more info, contact +41 (0)33 748 83 38.

THURSDAY, JULY 28 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Chorus concert. Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-160.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 2 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad with Magdalena Kozena (Mezzosopran). Venue: Gstaad church. Rate: SFr 40-160.

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 3 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Early Fusion I – Barock – Rolf Lislevand. Venue: Rougemont church. Rate: SFr 30-70.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 4 & FRIDAY, AUGUST 5 19h30: Menuhin Festival Gstaad: Gabetta & Grimaud. Venue: Saanen church. Rate: SFr 40-160.

Rotary Club Gstaad-Saanenland Meetings every Monday 12h00 Palace Hotel Gstaad (033 / 748 50 00), President: Rot. Alfred Liechti (033 / 722 42 22), Program: Rot. Gerhard Amiet (033 / 744 94 49) Lions Club Gstaad-Saanenland 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 Urs Wittwer, president, 033 748 99 11, info@wittwer-fleurs.ch, htttp://gstaad-saanenland.lionsclub.ch

Church Services St Peter’s English-Speaking Anglican Church, Château-d’Oex 16 July 2011, 10h00 – 12h00 Open Church, Rev. Penny Frank 17 July 2011, 17h30 Evening Prayer. Rev. Penny Frank 23 July 2011, 10h00 – 12h00 Open Church. Rev. Penny Frank 24 July 2011, 17h30 Evening Prayer. Rev. Penny Frank 25 July 2011, 10h00 – 10h30 Prayer Circle. Rev. Penny Frank 30 July 2011, 10h00 – 12h00 Open Church. Rev. Penny Frank 31 July 2011, 17h30 Evening Prayer. Rev. Penny Frank Information: 026 924 60 92 Web: 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 For additional useful numbers please visit www.gstaadlife.ch/usefulnumbers For the latest local weather forecast visit www.gstaadlife.com/weather