SPRING / SUMMER 2018
BÃœHNE FREI THE STAGE IS YOURS
MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE DREAMS IN THE PILLERSEETAL
Immerse yourself and let go in the PillerseeTal. Authentic, extensive and informative. A magazine as your guide to the region.
Heroes of the mountains
An exciting insight into the live of a mountain guide
A passion for wood
An interview with sculptor Horst Mayr
The journey is the destination T hrough the PillerseeTal in three days.
Water is life
Submerse yourself in the PillerseeTal
THE NEW RANGE ROVER VELAR
FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS.
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Range Rover Velar D180 132 kW (180 HP): Fuel consumption in liters/100 km: 6.2 (city); 4.9 (highway); 5.4 (overall); CO2-Emission in g/km: 142. Symbol photo.
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Editorial
Lights out, spotlight on... ... and THE STAGE IS YOURS for some unforgettable experiences in our region. You are holding a source of ideas and activities for the PillerseeTal in your hands. So simply browse through the wide range of offers available in our local region. On each page, we present the most exceptional side of our five towns of Fieberbrunn, Hochfilzen, St. Jakob in Haus, St. Ulrich am Pillersee and Waidring. There are often fascinating episodes of everyday life just waiting to be shared. Stories which only life can tell – authentic and true to style. You can also look forward to some insider tips about some very special experiences as you read on. The wide range of tales extends from bell-making and wood sculpting to innovative adventure parks and experiences out in nature. Blogger Katharina Steglegger takes you across the three stages of the WAIWI long-distance walk. This trail promises to offer a breath-taking natural backdrop as well as calming the body and mind, as our mountain guides from the PillerseeTal know only too well. Four of them offer exciting insight in this magazine. In this first edition, we invite you to explore the exciting aspects of our region, to discover new things and to get to know some inspiring people.
So we hope you enjoy immersing yourself in our region and letting go‌
Best wishes,
Armin Kuen Managing Director of the Tourismusverband PillerseeTal
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Bell-founding in Waidring
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A summer’s day in the PillerseeTal
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‘Erlebnispark Familienland’ theme park
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World’s oldest pine oil distillery
CONTENTS 06 The journey is the destination
Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
26 Water is life
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The singing and chiming of bells
30 A revitalising mountain blessing
The bell-maker from the PillerseeTal
Submerse yourself in the PillerseeTal
Visit the world’s oldest pine oil distillery
16 Tracking down a legend
32 Heroes of the mountains
18 A man who brings his thoughts to life
36 Come in, come in!
22 A summer’s day in the PillerseeTal
38 Event highlights
Margarethe and the Fieberbrunn fountain
Wood sculptor Horst Mayr
An interview with a mountain guide
‘Erlebnispark Familienland’ theme park
Imprint: Responsible for the content: TVB Kitzbüheler Alpen PillerseeTal // 6391 Fieberbrunn // Dorfplatz 1 // info@pillerseetal.at // Tel.: +43 5354 56304 Circulation: 10,000 copies in German, 3,000 copies in English // Publication: 2x per year // Place of publication: Fieberbrunn Concept / Text / Graphics: ofp kommunikation GmbH Kufstein // Photos: Archiv TVB PillerseeTal, ofp kommunikation, Toni Niederwieser, Katharina Steglegger Petra Astner, defrancesco, Bergbahn Pillersee, Bruno Wolfsfellner, Andreas Langreiter, fullmarketing, Badeanlagen Waidring, Helmut Lackner, shutterstock, Robert Pupeter / Tirol Werbung, Familienland, Joerg Mitter, Philipp Wagner, Mirja Geh, Johannes Felsch, Kitzbüheler Alpen - Brixental, Christian Egger Data protection regulations: https://www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com/de/datenschutzerklaerung.html
ALPINE RESORT FIEBERBRUNN ****
INCLINED TO ENJOY. Situated right alongside the gondola, its clear lines blend seamlessly into the slope of the Doischberg. Whether in summer or winter: everything here is geared towards recharging your batteries for the next activity!
The mountains on the doorstep. Start here.
Info & Booking: Tel.: +43-5354-560 86-0 ferien@austria-trend.at austria-trend.at
The mountains are calling
Thanks to its exceptional location, the Sporthotel Fontana is the initial point of contact for all sporty guests who want to explore the diversity of the region. The Sporthotel Fontana makes guests of all ages feel welcome right away with its warmth, Austrian hospitality and authentic Tyrolean charm. Lindau 15, 6391 Fieberbrunn Tel.: +43/5354/564 53 office@sporthotel-fontana.at | sporthotel-fontana.at
Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
text: Katharina Steglegger blog: bergseensucht.com
Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
The journey is the destination
3 stages, 50 kilometres 3,200m of altitude difference on the ascent. A long-distance trail away from the masses with beautiful breath-taking views from Waidring to the picturesque Wildseeloder.
Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
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mposing panoramic views with traditional towns and mountain lodges – the PillerseeTal offers a wide range of wonderful mountain experiences. And the WAIWI, a long-distance trail of medium difficulty, has plenty to amuse leisure walkers. The route leads from Waidring to the Wildseeloder peak in Fieberbrunn. Over 50 kilometres and 3,200m of uphill altitude difference are covered over the three day stages. Average fitness, steady footing and a head for heights are important for this tour. We sent the adventurous Katharina Steglegger out on the long-distance trail in the golden autumn time. No mountain is too high and no lake too deep for this Upper Austrian from the Salzkammergut region. Her blog is entitled ‘bergseensucht’ (addicted to mountain lakes) and reflects her deep connection with nature. Katharina experienced many things out on the WAIWI trail and has captured some of her memories for us. Simply immerse yourself and let go…
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Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
Stage 1
Waidring - Hausberg - Schafelberg Kirchberg - St. Jakob in Haus (1,180 m uphill altitude difference & 21.8 km - approx. 8 hours’ walking)
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park my car in the centre of the historic town in the morning at the Hausberg car park (free-of-charge) and from here set out on the WAIAI tour. With my biking boots laced up and my rucksack packed for the three days (as light as possible because you can feel every kilo after walking uphill for at least 2 hours). And of course, two litres of water are a must.
me this is by far and away the most attractive stretch of the current route. The summit cross on the Schafelberg was erected in 1990. From here, St. Ulrich am Pillersee lies down at your feet and the snow-capped peaks of the Hohe Tauern motion from afar. The Kirchberg (1,678m) is also not far away – just continue on through the dense forest of mountain pine which extends up to the right and left and opens up magnificent views to the side. A short descent followed quickly The first ascent on the Hausberg is certainly Instead of by the next climb up to the summit. With not without its challenges – at times, the taking a bre at the sum ak mit cross, views of Waidring, the Steinplatte and the path winds its way steeply up through continue on a few m ore metres Hausberg. And half of this stage is done. the mixed woodland. The Steinplatte and hidden beh ind the mo opposite is almost close enough to untain pines is a b ench offeri touch from the 1,120 m peak. Heading Care should be taken at points along ng beautiful vi ews of the H o h downhill, the route reaches a forest trail the descent. The path is steep and Tauern and e Kitzbühele r which takes you left into the forest after gravel-covered in places before widening Horn. a short time, following the green WAIWI and passing the Gerstbergalm through a stickers on the signposts along the way. The short stretch of forest and along gently rolling route leads past the Talsenalm (uncatered) along a mountain meadows. It is worth taking a look back winding gravel road into the Weissbach Gorge. from here – the Wilder Kaiser has this honour and creates a breath-taking backdrop. The crashing of the brook provides a welcome cool-down before heading up to the Gasthof Oberweissbach. Fancy Taking a break at the 100+ year old Winterstelleralm with taking a break and savouring the view? It is worth taking Alpine dairymaid Anni Waltl is also a must. The perfect place another short break at the Rechensaualm (uncatered) on the for a cool drink – and if your stomach is rumbling: a snack road to the small Rechensaukapelle chapel where the road of bacon, cheese and bread – with some of the food hometurns off right into the forest again. Here you can recharge made. What could be better! And with the day almost finished, your batteries for the climb up to the Schafelberg (1,597 there is also the chance to try an obligatory schnapps! My m). A striking panorama: the Steinplatte on the left in-front feet are glad of a lengthy break and Anni is pleased to have of one of the mighty Loferer Mountains and to the right the a visitor. Her two dogs also enjoy being petted. The forest Leogang Mountains…. And below, the Pillersee lake which road from here leads down into the Schartental (district of St. peeps briefly through the trees during the ascent. Fields of Ulrich) and via Schwendt and the beautiful hamlet of Flecken mountain pine replace the forest, the further up you go. For to the destination for this stage - St. Jakob im Haus.
TIP
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Photo left: Jakobskreuz cross on the Buchsteinwand at sunrise. Photo right: Panoramic break at the Rechensaualm. Photo top: Stage 1 is almost finished! Now it’s all downhill – complete with views of the Leogang Mountains.
Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
>> Panoramablick auf die Loferer Steinberge vom Wildseelodersee aus.
Stage 2
St. Jakob in Haus Buchensteinwand - Wildseelodersee (1,700 m altitude & 17 km - approx. 8 hours’ walking)
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ld farms with their typical lush flowers on the balcony – tradition comes to life more than ever before in St. Jakob! The 30m high Jakobskreuz summit cross towers high on the Buchensteinwand and I get here via the ‘Katzeneck’ (as the direct route is called by locals). And if these panoramic views are not enough, you can also climb onto one of the platforms at the cross from where all the surrounding peaks can be seen. The sunny
guest garden at the Alpengasthof Buchensteinwand is the perfect place to while away the time. After a coffee, I find myself drawn back to the old cross on the Buchensteinwand. From here, you can enjoy views of the Fieberbrunn side. There is still a stretch of the route in-front of me leading to the Wildseelodersee lake. I descend on the west down the steep ski piste towards Tennalm. NB: the route branches off to the left above the lift station to the district of Buchau in Fieberbrunn. From here, it leads on to Walchau and the valley station of Streuböden. If you feel tired at this point, do yourself a favour and consider cutting the route short by taking the mountain railway to the Lärchfilzkogel. The route then follows the Krottenweg trail, along some steep but not difficult sections uphill. It takes around 3 hours to walk to the Wildseeloderhütte. Once at the Lärchfilzhochalm, you have most of the route behind you. With views of the Wilder Kaiser, Lofer Mountains, Buchensteinwand complete with Jakobskreuz cross and section behind – the effort has been well worthwhile. The forest trail weaves its way up with the Steinernes Meer visible behind you. Delicious cheese is made at the Wildalm and is definitely worth sampling! Then comes the final ascent of the day – climbing up to the Wildseeloderhaus at 1,854 m. The Schutzhütte (built in 1892) is traditionally covered with slate and is visible from afar with its red-whitered shutters. A small stone chapel can be found to the left of the lodge – but another treasure of nature immediately captures the attention too. The blue-black shimmering Wildseelodersee lake (also known as the Wildsee or Wildalpsee) which is up to 11m deep in parts. Nestled between the peaks of the Henne (2,078 m) and Wildseeloder (2,118 m), taking a dip would be the ultimate treat after the strenuous ascent. Hard-core hikers might like to plunge into the icy waters whereas a refreshing paddle is enough for most! It is also possible to explore the lake by rowing boat. Spending the night up at the Schutzhütte is a real highlight of the tour. And when the day-trippers head back down into the valley for the last gondola on the Lärchfilzkogel, peace returns. The treats served at the lodge are simply delicious. And the views – priceless. Even from the toilets… >>
Picture top left: On the Loder summit at 2,118 m. Tip: A 40 litre rucksack is sufficient for the 3-day tour.
>> Picture far left: Katharina en route on the WAIWI. Her smile describes the tour with no words needed! >> Picture left: Done! Shoes off and some relaxation by the Lauchsee lake before the last few kilometres. 10
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Out and about on the WAIWI in the PillerseeTal
Stage 3
Wildseeloderhaus - Wildseeloder - Fieberbrunn (320 m ascent & 11.2 km - approx. 4 hours’ walking)
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fter a generous mountain breakfast, the Loder (Loderspitze), as the local mountain of Fieberbrunn is known by locals, awaits. The journey up to the summit cross at 2,118 m leads via the Seeleitn, a steep rock side, which runs through a stone gateway on the grassy Südgrat ridge at the end. The summit cross was forged from the last Pillersee steel – the long-standing tradition of hard mining in Fieberbrunn is brought to life. The 360° wide-ranging views of the Wildseeloder peak, at the heart of the Kitzbühel Alps, seem almost endless. A truly magnificent summit finale on the WAIWI. The descent leads via the Seenieder with the Hohe Tauern peaks always in sight. A head for heights is needed here because there are a few tricky sections before the route leads via easy block and paved sections back to the Wildseelodersee lake. Still not enough? It takes approx. 30 minutes to reach the peak of the Henne (2,078 m). If you wish, you can sample some regional specialities down at the Wildalm before
heading off to the Lärchfilzkogel. Here the route turns off back down into the valley and past the Berggasthof Wildalpgatterl where the aroma of freshly baked bread wafts in the air from the guesthouse’s own stone ovens. It is served with meat from neighbouring farms and herbs from the establishment’s own gardens – it would be a real mistake to walk past without sampling these treats! The forest trail then runs down to the middle station of the Fieberbrunn mountain railway at the Gasthof Streuböden Alm. Then past the reservoir on towards Brent where the path becomes an asphalt road. I am quick to finish this section – with the Lauchsee lake waiting for me below. One of the jetties proves to be the perfect place for a final pause before I head to the centre of Fieberbrunn. The Kitzbüheler Horn and Wilder Kaiser are reflected in the lake. So just 2.5 km of the WAIWI to go!
Five peaks and 50 kilometres on foot through the PillerseeTal – a truly wonderful region for a long-distance walk!
Recuperation,
TYROLEAN STYLE.
UNTOUCHED NATURE. PURE AIR AND CLEAR WATER. MOUNTAINS AS FAR AS THE EYE CAN SEE. THE STEINPLATTE IN WAIDRING BRINGS ALL OF THIS TOGETHER. SLOWING DOWN HAS NEVER BEEN AS EASY AS IT IS HERE. WELCOME TO THE HOTEL SENDLHOF IN THE PILLERSEETAL VALLEY.
Summer
THE PILLERSEETAL VALLEY.
WALKING, CLIMBING, BIKING, GOLF AND MORE. WHETHER IN THE MOUNTAIN OR IN THE VALLEY, EVERY OPPORTUNITY IS OPEN TO YOU HERE IN SUMMER! SPORT AND FUN, NATURE AND ROMANCE OR SIMPLY BOTH AT THE SAME TIME! H O T E L S ENDL H O F Riedlsperger family Grünwaldweg 10 | 6384 Waidring in Tirol | Austria
T: +43 (0) 5353 20 183 | info@hotel-sendlhof.at www.hotel-sendlhof.at
The bell-maker from the PillerseeTal
The bell-maker from the PillerseeTal
The singing and chiming of the bells Wolfgang Olivier casts bells by hand at the bell foundry which was set up in 1870. This traditional craft creates a beautiful tone which chimes out across the Alpine region.
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olfgang Olivier is one of the last craftsmen in the Tyrolean Unterland region to still be working in the bell casting field. He follows in the footsteps of his great-great grandfather Joseph Lugmairder who founded a bell foundry in Waidring in 1870. Some 5,000 bells are produced here every year and sold across Central Europe, especially the Alpine region. The cowbells made by Wolfgang Olivier are characterised by their particular chime. “The mix of materials is critical. Everything has to sing and chime. If this doesn’t work perfectly, you are left with a dull tone,” Olivier explains. Farmers select the bells for their sound – personal taste plays a key role here too. From time to time, a finished bell is also ordered in different pitches. Around 50% of the bell-maker’s business comes from cow bells which are sold directly at cattle markets and animal shows by distributors. A bell for use in the meadow should not weigh more than 1.5 kg. Larger models are use only for the ceremony to drive the cattle back down from the meadows in autumn. The cows have been wearing their chiming decorative bells in the Alpine meadows 12
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since 1850. “At that time, the bell was often more expensive than the whole cow,” Olivier grins.
A sound for all eternity Many of the bells produced at the Lugmair bell foundry last over 100 years. This is relevant to the larger bells in particular: church bells increase in value over the years. Wolfgang Olivier is often asked to give valuations: “A newly cast bell would perhaps cost 1,500 euros but an old bell could cost between 3,000 and 4,000 euros”. A cow bell made by his grandfather Joseph Foidl in the 50s recently sold on an internet auction for over 1,900 euros. The market is dominated by collectors and this pushes up the prices.
And so it continues In addition to the bronze bells, Wolfgang Olivier also casts items using brass. The production of new forms is challenging and requires creativity. All kinds of special design are possible: horn-shaped door handles for hunting trophy rooms, snake-
The bell-maker from the PillerseeTal
The sound of the bells The crucial aspect determining the sound of the bells is using the right mix of materials: approx. 80% copper and 20% tin are melted together at 1,280 degrees to make bronze. The exact composition determines the sound: if there is too much copper, the bell has a dull sound and with too much tin, the bell sounds shrill. A longlasting reverberation is dependent on the perfect casting of the bell. The bells are struck immediately after casting to check the sound. Bells made using machines never have the same balanced chime as a cast bell. The size of the bell is directly related to the pitch: the bigger the bell, the lower the pitch. Different bell sizes harmonise with one another and together create a scale of sound. This is what characterises the typical sound of a herd of cows.
shaped belt buckles or a tongue to channel the water from a fountain – the requests are endless. Wolfgang Oliver also trains apprentices but spends most of his time alone in his workshop. “It amazes me that it is still continuing. Even in the 80s, people were predicting that there would be less work at some point. But for us, it has increased,” says Olivier. This is due in particular to the fact that the Lugmair bell foundry is renowned for its quality bells.
The former bell-maker Joseph Foidl passed two things onto his grandson: firstly, you need to have patience. And you should not deviate from your high quality standards, even if the work is difficult and demanding time-wise. “It’s a dirty job. The black dust is everywhere and when it’s hot outside, temperatures can reach up to 75 degrees inside. You almost get circulatory failure,” says the bell-founder who takes on the exertions of his craft despite this.
Bell-founding Cow bells are made using a sand casting process. Black quartz sand is mixed with a binding agent and shaped using a model bell. Bronze is made from 14% tin and 86% copper which accounts for the reddish shimmer to the metal. The material is heated in a furnace to 1,280 degrees until it melts. It is then poured into the moulds from above and fills the hollow cavity. After half an hour or so, the metal cools down and can then be removed from the mould. The sound is checked straight away. The bell is then polished and the clapper added. Bells have been produced in Tyrol since the 14th century. And they are still cast by hand today, just as they were back then. “Essentially, I use the same technique as in the Middle Ages,” Wolfgang Olivier explains. Many of the bells made by Wolfgang Olivier last over 100 years. T H E S TA G E I S Y O U R S
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TIP Those with a bit more time can even have their own personal souvenir cast – a house bell featuring their name or a table bell with their family coat of arms.
Opening times: Monday to Friday from 8:00 til 12:00 and from 13:00 til 17:00.
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At his workshop in Waidring, the bell-maker also casts items in brass.
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The material is heated in a furnace to 1,280° C until it melts and is then poured into the relevant mould from above.
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A great deal of patience is required for this profession, even though the work is strenuous.
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Wolfgang Olivier is one of the last bell-makers in the Tyrolean Unterland and is therefore preserving a very special tradition.
Wildseeloder – Fieberbrunn ‘The all-rounder mountain’
It is not without good reason that the Wildseeloder is also known as the ‘all-rounder mountain’. The local mountain of Fieberbrunn offers something for everyone and everything. Coasting, scrambling & tree top walks Bold action enthusiasts will strike gold at ‘Timok‘s Alm‘ – the family hit at the Streuböden middle station: the cool Timok’s Alpine Coaster provides the opportunity to race downhill over the ‘Kaiserwelle’ wave, the ‘Riesenschlange’ (giant snake) and ‘360°carousel’ while Timok’s Forest Ropes Course is all about balance and concentration. The climbing park and deer enclosure are also just waiting to be explored.
Fieberbrunn mountain railway opening times: Daily from 19 May til 28 October 2018 Bergbahnen Fieberbrunn Ges.m.b.H Lindau 17, A-6391 Fieberbrunn +43 5354 56333-0 office@bbf.at www.bergbahnen-fieberbrunn.at
Museum goes wild – the digital hiking path The Fieberbrunn mountain railways have teamed up with the Tyrolean State Museum to offer Europe’s first digital hiking path through the Wildalm Alpine region with an amusing and educational slant. Starting out from the Lärchfilzkogel mountain station and equipped with a smartphone and specially developed app, the circular trail sheds ‘light’ onto the grass, shrubbery and animals at 10 stations. Each station provides amusing tales and short educational films. The approx. 1.5 hour leisurely walk provides useful and surprising insight into the flora, fauna and geology around the Wildseeloder.
The fascination of via ferrata There are two via ferrata of five difficulty ratings available for those who want to explore Fieberbrunn from a bird’s eye perspective. While the panoramic ‘Himmel and Henne’ (heavens and hens) fixed ropes course (difficulty A) offers a chance for all the family to scramble around with ease, the course on the way to the Henne offers plenty of variety in the form of the ‘Geduldiger’ (B - patient), ‘Rassiger’ (C racy) and ‘Zacher’ (D - challenging) variations. The sporty ‘Marokka’ course (Maueracker - C) enables the 2,019m of the summit of the same name to be conquered.
Where hikers flourish A beautiful flower trail leads from the Wildseeloder hut towards Henne around the Hochhörndlspitze. The route is lined with Alpine flowers, many with a nature preservation order and leads to the Reckmoos where breath-taking views of the ‘Hohe Tauern’ await. It then follows the Gamssteig ropes course and Seenieder sale back to the start – the picturesque Wildseelodersee lake.
Long Friday Every Friday in July and August, the Streuböden cable car (1st section) is open until 23:00 and Timok’s Coaster until dusk. Enjoy sunsets on the mountain, delicious treats at the Wildalpgatterl and a weekly programme of music at the Streuböden Arena.
Tip: Free trips on Timok’s Coaster from 18:00 on long Fridays!
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Margarethe and the Fieberbrunn fountain
Tracking down a legend
Fieberbrunn is a place with history. From mining to the famous healing springs and a puzzling legend – tracking down the past here reveals exciting insight into a long-forgotten era
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he market community of Fieberbrunn, the largest town in the PillerseeTal, is home to some 4,250 people as well as being a holiday destination for holidaymakers from all over the world. And there’s a good reason for that. Visiting this former mining village is like entering a breath-taking natural cinema. It is no secret that this market community at the heart of the Kitzbühel Alps is the ideal starting point for outdoor experiences in a dreamy natural setting. It is not known exactly how many historic events have left their mark here. Fieberbrunn was first mentioned in the history books in 1445. It was named after the so-called ‘Fieberbrünnlein’, a healing fountain which emerges beneath the current church hill. This fountain is also the source of a rather special legend, the truth of which is still disputed today. And so the journey back in time begins…
Tracking down a legend
has it that Claudia von Medici was also healed by the water. But now back to Margarethe. She has been described by her contemporaries as a beautiful woman and after surviving her fever, lived another 15 years and died at the age of 51. Her surname was misinterpreted for a long time and assumed to mean that Margarethe had a misshapen mouth (Maultasch). It is still unclear as to where the name ‘Maultasch’ came from. However it is thought that the dubious name may have come from her first husband Johann Heinrich who spread evil rumours about his wife.
Many puzzles There is still no proof even today that Margarethe von Maultasch ever set foot in the Fieberbrunnen. Despite this, a bronze statue of the beautiful woman was erected at the site of the current fountain in 1971. This work was created by none other than the sculptor Josef Bachlechner who came from a famous artistic family. His figures are characterised by their slender form and heavily stylised draped clothing. All of these features can be found in the portrayal of Margarethe. An impressive female figure in lavish clothing looks out into the distance with a serious and contemplative expression and holds a drinking vessel in her slender hand. Whether the story surrounding the fountain is true or not will probably always remain a mystery. But Pram became Fiebeau the fact remains that the statue of Margarethe von rbrunn Maultasch still impresses, commands respect and The marke t commun demonstrates stature, even today. Fieberbrun ity of nw as previous ly known as Pramau. Th is name re lates to bramble bu shes and is indicative the infertile of soils of the valley at that tim e.
The statue of Margarethe von Maultasch was created by the famous sculptor Josef Bachlechner.
The power of water We travel back to 1354 and to the ‘Fieberbrünnlein’ fountain in the centre of the town. The church currently on this spot will not be built for another 100 years yet. Plagued by fever, Countess of Tyrolean Margarethe von Maultasch set off in search of the source of the fountain. The delightful sensation of the water soothed her symptoms and she began to recover as hoped. From this day on, the spring has been known as the Fieberbrunnen. Some 300 years later, legend
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Wood sculptor Horst Mayr
Wood sculptor Horst Mayr
A man who brings his thoughts to life 18
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Wood sculptor Horst Mayr
Wood sculptor Horst Mayr has been working in his field for over 40 years and is a passionate artist. In this interview, he describes his long journey to success, the liberating moment of his art and the special eye of the sculptor.
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ringing your own ideas to life is a long process. The sculptor started out carving figures of Jesus Christ, Madonnas and other small figurines before gradually developing his own style. The 62 year old learnt wood carving at the Elbigenalp college of carving in the district of Reutte. “You should never stop. You should stay an artist all your life and constantly prove yourself. And show people what you can do. It’s an art to survive in this profession,” says Horst Mayr. Of his 11 fellow students from the Elbigenalp, two are still wood sculptors today. If you stop carving, you quickly unlearn everything. Horst Mayr was interested in forms even before he started his training and would spend hours standing in-front of shop windows studying the mannequins: “You see the world through different eyes: if you do nothing else for 40 years, then you see everything differently because you are constantly dealing with forms. My eye is trained for the three-dimensional. Another person would not see it that way”.
“You stand in-front of a piece of wood and cut some away – some here, some there. You transform your thoughts into a sculpted shape and often don’t know in advance what the outcome will be: that’s art”.
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Wood sculptor Horst Mayr
Horst Mayr wants to capture his observations in wood. He points to a metre-high figure, partly covered in gold and describes it. His newer works are often somewhat abstract. “There is total chaos in the world and we need to bring back some order. The threats from the outside world can make your head hurt – what can we do to make it better?” This was the idea behind one of his sculptures. The artist places particular importance on stimulating reflection. Art for him is a thought which manifests itself. He frequently works on commissions and so it is important to him for it to be immediately clear that this is a ‘genuine’ Mayr. His figures are highly expressive and seem almost to move.
Tree rings Horst Mayr likes to use pine, spruce, lime and in particular stone pine in his works of art. Most of the trees grow very quickly in summer and very slowly in winter. This is reflected in the typical tree rings which makes wood carving more difficult. That’s why stone pine is particularly suitable because it grows at an even rate all year round.
“Art never stops growing. You become more and more mature. With age, you develop a certain skill. It’s just a shame that you can’t properly exploit it because you have no time left”. If you are only carving figures for the sake of carving them, then you are already dead. You need to breathe soul into the figures. People see this strength. The expressive faces of his works are particularly striking. Horst Mayr is proud to present another work too: an old man supported by a walking stick. He carved the piece from a tree which is still standing at the Auwirt in Leongang. It’s a self-portrait. Horst Mayr still spends every day at his workshop. When an idea comes to him, he has to create it immediately. He describes this process as a moment of liberation. Then he might stop working on a commission piece for a couple of days because, as an artist, he needs this release. Horst Mayr takes his work very seriously. But during the interview, he shares some anecdotes from his life. “As a sculptor, you can work with forms. The rest is simply a matter of different materials. I once carved a nativity from cheese. And once I ate an ice-cream in a guest garden. Someone looked at me because I was eating it so strangely. I showed him what I had done: made the head of a Madonna. Carved out with the little ice-cream spoon. So you can have fun as a sculptor!”
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There are numerous works of art carved from wood, polystyrene and glass fibre reinforced plastic at his workshop. Some of his figures can also be found in his family homeland of St. Jakob in Haus.
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Horst Mayr wants to inspire people to reflect through his works of art. His figures are highly expressive.
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A compass, carver’s mallet and carving knife are the key tools of a wood sculptor.
SUMMER HAPPINESS AT THE GROSSLEHEN Arrive and feel good. The impressive natural landscape can be explored on foot straight from the hotel or by bike – based on the motto of ‘As far as your feet can carry you’. The idyllic natural landscape and well-being area are perfect for relaxation. And the kitchen is alive with creativity: regional ingredients and home-grown produce are a real treat for the taste buds.
**** Hotel Chalets Grosslehen Geisl family | 6391 Fieberbrunn | Lehen 21 T.: +43 5354 564 55 | F.: +43 5354 564 55-5 E-mail: office@grosslehen.at www.grosslehen.at
A summer’s day in the PillerseeTal
A summer’s day in the PillerseeTal Everyone has their own idea of what the perfect day should look like. The PillerseeTal undoubtedly has many possibilities for transforming 24 hours into an unforgettable time. See here for some ideas for a special day.
Morning happiness 08:30: Breakfast on the mountain What could be better than soaking up the morning ambience on the mountain with breakfast and some magnificent views from up on high? The Griessenbodenalm in Fieberbrunn is the perfect place for this! A delicious Alpine breakfast including home-made products from the region is served here in an idyllic atmosphere.
Tip:
If you ord er you can in advance, enjoy a cosy picnic b y the ne arby reservoir an your hea d feast to rt surround ’s content, ed by na ture.
As fast as the wind 10:00: E-biking tour
Tip:
at rely bo t a leisu ? Or for u o b a How illersee Lake P adventurous, trip on ore m g in nce to someth put your bala p n tand-u s e you ca m o t with s P for short. the tes U g or S paddlin
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E-bikes are gradually shaking off their pensioner image and appealing to more and more people. Whether a sports fan, nature enthusiast or cycling fanatic – anyone wishing to explore a new region by themselves will find an e-bike to be the ideal companion. And there is nothing stopping you from undertaking a lengthy tour of discovery thanks to the long distances an e-bike can cover. Energised by breakfast at the Griessenbodenalm, our e-biking tour starts out from Fieberbrunn. The tour takes around an hour and leads via Hochfilzen, past the idyllic Wiesensee lake to Lake Pillersee in St. Ulrich. On hot summer days, a cool dip in the water is a real highlight!
A summer’s day in the PillerseeTal
Coffee break 13:00: No cake is not a solution! After some fun in, or alongside the water, it’s time to continue on to Waidring by e-bike. The cosy Café Schmid is less than 20 minutes away. The home-made cakes are famed for their size as well as their exceptional flavour. But it’s hard to choose between the cakes and pastries and the delicious ice-cream on offer at Café Schmid.
Big, bigger, the ‘Jakobskreuz‘ 14:30: Off to the world’s largest summit cross accessible on foot It is then a good half hour by e-bike to the valley station of the Pillersee mountain railway (open from 28 April til 28 October daily from 9:00 to 16:45). From here, the 4-seater chair lift takes you up to the lofty heights of the summit. Here on the peak of the Buchensteinwand is the 30m summit cross, the world’s largest to be accessible on foot. The four viewing platforms can be reached by lift or on foot and offer spectacular 360 degree views across the region and surrounding mountains.
“Arrive as a guest, leave as a friend”.
ts offering Establishmen’ cuisine. ‘KochArt w: An overvie
ner Unterlech estaurant Gourmet R kob in Haus St. Ja Post t Hotel Alte Restauran n Fieberbrun atterl of Wildalpg Berggasth n un br er eb Fi
Pimp my Dinner 18:00: KochArt Establishments in the PillerseeTal have come together under the name of ‘KochArt’ to prove that cooking is a real art, based on products from local farmers and producers. Often the menus feature forgotten specialities of Austrian cuisine.
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Immerse yourself in the past ... and celebrate an anniversary at the interactive leisure park! Opening times: From 31 May til 7 October 2018 open daily from 9:00 til 16:45 > Suitable for wheelchairs and pushchairs > Free admission to the park
Contact: Bergbahnen Steinplatte Alpegg 10 A-6384 Waidring Tel.: +43 5353 5330-0 office@steinplatte.co.at www.steinplatte.tirol www.triassicpark.at
Think history is dry and boring? Not at the Triassic Park on the Steinplatte in Waidring! Lots of dinosaur fun awaits visitors of all ages here at an altitude of 1,700m – dinosaurs, corals, ammonites and a prehistoric ocean at the heart of the Tyrolean peaks. Ready for an adventure-packed trip back into the past?
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s a popular skiing and hiking region between Salzburg, Tyrol and Bavaria, the Steinplatte impresses with its sporty highlights for nature fans. It’s hard to believe that the area was home to the prehistoric ocean of Tethys over 200 million years ago and prehistoric reptiles once lived here. The Triassic Park is the perfect place for immersing yourself in these times gone by. The interactive adventure park brings history to life like never before. Simply step inside the time capsule… errr underwater gondola…. And step out in the Alpine world of long, long, long ago. 200 million years of fun!
Highlights under the open skies How did the Triassic period get its name? What actually is karst? And what does coral look like close up? Of course you could google the answers to these questions (yawn) but a much more exciting way is to follow the ‘Triassic Trail’ with its numerous stations, vantage points, tricky puzzles and giant prehistoric reef. The educational circular route covers approx. 4 km and 210 m of altitude. At the ‘Minimeer’ (mini ocean), a 30m long dinosaur tube slide is just waiting to be explored. And the ‘Triassic Beach’ (the highest altitude sandy beach in the Alps) is home to some buried treasure. The ‘Niederseilgarten’ low ropes course also offers plenty of fun with its obstacle course and coralshaped viewing platform – goose bumps guaranteed!
10th anniversary with lots of surprises What to do if it rains? Quite simply: head to the ‘Triassic Center’ and soak up the ABC of the earth’s history. The latest multi-media technology and life-size dinosaurs transform hard facts into easyto-digest snippets of information – whatever the weather. The latest attraction is a dripstone cave leading into the depths of the prehistoric era. A little tip for you and your kids: a few surprises are planned to mark the 10th anniversary of the Triassic Park. Celebrate this special birthday on and with the Steinplatte! More information will soon be available at www.triassicpark.at
Back to the modern day The Steinplatte in Waidring has been offering fun for prehistoric hunters over the last 200 million years as well as Alpine experience enthusiasts such as mountain fans, mountain bikers, mountain lodge lovers and, of course, fans of fixed ropes courses and Alpine climbing. With its wide rage of footpaths, climbing routes, biking trails and the ever-present dreamy panoramic views, the 1,869m massif offers plenty of fun in the modern day too!. 24
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200 million years of fun.
www.steinplatte.tirol T +43 5353/53 30-0
WAIDRING | TIROL
Submerse yourself in the PillerseeTal
Water is life According to a Finnish saying, jumping into cold water is like diving into an ocean of possibilities. We have two pieces of good news for you: first, the PillerseeTal is quite literally full of water. And second, there are plenty of warmer bathing alternatives on offer if you don’t fancy a cool dip!
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Water is life
Invigorating energy of water
Despite the weather
Crystal-clear water
Lauchsee in Fieberbrunn
Aubad in Fieberbrunn
Wildsee in Fieberbrunn
Fun for all the family is on offer at the Lauchsee lake in Fieberbrunn. Water trampolining, table tennis etc. bring pleasure to both little mermaids and water babies. And just above the town is a magnificent sunny plateau, home to Lake Lauchsee, offering perfect all-round views of the surrounding mountains. The healing effects of the moorland water help with rheumatic complaints, tensions and spinal problems.
If the weather fails to cooperate, the Aubad in Fieberbrunn is the ideal choice for all ages. Whether in the paddling pool, the 65m long tunnel slide for brave water fans or the extensive sauna village for pleasureseekers – there is something for everyone here. And in good weather, the Aubad also impresses with a diving platform, sunbathing area and outdoor swimming pool complete with flow channel.
Relax and take it easy
Green pearl
Natural pool
Alpensportbad in St. Ulrich am Pillersee
Badesee und Freibad in Waidring
Pillersee in St. Ulrich
The indoor pool in St. Ulrich am Pillersee is perfect for those who shy away from jumping into the cold water! The 30 degree warm water is the ideal place to relax. Visitors can make use of the sports pool and children’s pool. And for those seeking relaxation, the well-being area is the perfect place to set your soul free.
An artificial bathing lake extends over an area of 4,000 m2 in Waidring and is constantly topped up with fresh drinking water. Around the large lake, there is a sunbathing area, beach volleyball court, buffet, table tennis, kids’ paddling pool and heated swimming pool ensuring plenty of happy faces!
A real treasure can be found at 1,800m above sea level at the heart of the Kitzbühel Alps: the Wildsee lake at the foot of the Wildseeloder (2,118 m). Carved out during the last Ice Age, there are many myths surrounding this bitingly cold mountain lake. If you manage to overcome your inner fears, you can even brave jumping off the jetty instead of just dipping in your toes! And a rowing boat trip is a must!
Lake Pillersee gave its name to the region as well as being the ideal place for a refreshing dip on summer days. Bathing in the emerald-green waters, you can savour unique views of the surrounding mountain formations. There is also a play area and kiosk for a refreshment break. Secret tip: Explore the lake as a stand-up paddler or on a pedal boat. T H E S TA G E I S Y O U R S
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Welcome to the Traditionshotels PillerseeTal Family hotels rooted in the Kitzbühel Alps and Tyrol. They are experts in the PillerseeTal and pass this on to their employees to ensure that you are in the best of hands on your holiday. These small and family-run hotels are characterised by a genuine warmth and personal touch.
Sendlhof – family hotel in the Kitzbühel Alps Warm hospitality. A cosy ambience. Excellent cuisine. A charming well-being ambience with warm hospitality and sophisticated cuisine. The Sendlhof impresses as a family-run gourmet hotel with a cosy, friendly feel and a personal level of service. The newly built hotel guarantees an unforgettable holiday – at the heart of sun-drenched Waidring. An exclusive tower suite? A spacious family apartment? A cosy, homely room? The Sendlhof has the perfect holiday home for everyone. And it also impresses with some hearty treats from the region, some international delights and a sauna with panoramic views.
Top tip: The hotel has its own mountain lodge, the ‘Brennhütte’, at the heart of the Waidring Steinplatte hiking region! Hotel Sendlhof - Riedlsperger family Grünwaldweg 10 - 6384 Waidring in Tirol - Tel.: +43 5353 20183 www.hotel-sendlhof.at - info@hotel-sendlhof.at
Welcome to the Eder family
Active with gourmet treats at the heart of Fieberbrunn The Alte Post**** in the tranquil village of Fieberbrunn. The Eder family have been offering warm hospitality, a friendly atmosphere and lively tradition here for over 100 years. The kitchen team focus on local produce in all their dishes and conjure up some sophisticated creations. The hotel is also a member of the ‘Kochart’ and ‘Tiroler Wirtshaus’ associations. Landlords Peter and Hansi offer some sporty guided bike tours and guests can store their sports equipment securely in the new bike and ski cellar. The combination of active offers in the magnificent mountains with relaxation in the 800 m2 mountain pine SPA with its panoramic rooftop pool completes the wide-ranging offers at this 4* hotel.
Hotel**** Alte Post - Eder family Dorfstr. 21 - 6391 Fieberbrunn - Tel.: +43 5354 56257 www.alte-post-fieberbrunn.at - info@alte-post-fieberbrunn.at
Welcome from the Unterlechner family
Undisturbed relaxation at the first adult-only hotel (for over 14s) in the Kitzbühel Alps Enjoy completely undisturbed peace and relaxation in the well-being area, exceptional restaurant and rooms at the very first and unique adult-only hotel in the Kitzbühel Alps! Top quality and personal service are a priority at the Hotel Unterlechner. The award-winning restaurant impresses guests with modern interpretations prepared using regional ingredients.
NEW: Livingpool from May til October in the extensive hotel gardens. Hotel**** Unterlechner - Unterlechner family Reith 23 - 6392 St. Jakob in Haus - Tel.: +43 5354 88291 www.unterlechner.com - anfrage@unterlechner.com
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Genuine variety
Genuine offers
Each traditional hotel has its own individual strengths and its own profile. The offer ranges from well-being hotels to specialist family establishments, active sporty hotels and adultonly hotels. All of the traditional hotels offer activities with your hosts.
The traditional hotels offer a wide range of joint offers in both summer and winter. You can also view the traditional hotels on the website: www.traditionshotels.tirol
Hotel Kitzspitz Nothegger family Your hotel for a family and well-being holiday. A peaceful location surrounded by greenery in the sunny town of St. Jakob. A delightfully designed garden with a natural bathing pool, herb garden and garden spa. A holiday for recuperation and getting active. And also ideal for different generations – grandma, grandpa, parents and children. Head out for a cool refreshing dip and take full advantage of the hot temperatures! With the newly opened pool area at our Kitzspitz traditional hotel, cooling down with plenty of bathing fun is guaranteed! Dive into the new 15m stainless steel pool with massaging whirlpool benches for the perfect relaxation factor. Hotel Kitzspitz - Nothegger family Reith 18 - 6392 St. Jakob in Haus www.kitzspitz.at, info@kitzspitz.at, Tel.: +43 5354 88165
Landhotel Strasserwirt Nothegger family The riding school for dreamy family holidays. Families and riders feel particularly at home at the Landhotel Strasserwirt. Here, surrounded by a beautiful mountain backdrop, the hotel impresses with its top offers for all ages. With a dressage and jumping area as well as a riding arena, no wish goes unfulfilled here and there is also plenty of pony riding and horse-drawn carriage riding to impress! The hotel offers certified lessons on the very best trained horses for both beginners and advanced riders as well as trips out on Haflingers and pony rides for children. The exceptional Tyrolean cuisine too is a real treat for the taste buds! Landhotel Strasserwirt - Nothegger family Strass 85 - 6393 St. Ulrich am Pillersee www.strasserwirt.at, info@strasserwirt.at, Tel.: +43 5354 88 102
Fairhotel Hochfilzen Eder family Sporty and active gourmets will find their perfect home base here. Savour the exceptional comforts and enjoy a sustainable holiday in a family atmosphere at Tyrol’s first passive energy hotel. The fairhotel offers modern rooms with a generous breakfast buffet and exquisite well-being area with massage offers. There is also a sports, training and equipment professional on hand at the Nordic Academy, right at the hotel itself. Fairhotel Hochfilzen - Eder family Kulturhausstr. 1 - 6395 Hochfilzen www.fairhotel-hochfilzen.at, info@fairhotel-hochfilzen.at, Tel.: +43 5359 234 56
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Visit the world’s oldest pine oil distillery
A revitalising mountain blessing
The therapeutic effects of mountain pine Mountain pine is a very highly valued medicinal plant. Mountain pines from the Himalayas were use in Far Eastern medicine even 5,000 years ago. As with all softwood trees, the essential oil is the most precious active ingredient. Mountain pine oil is particularly effective when inhaled for treating inflammatory diseases of the respiratory system and lung disease. In the case of lung and bronchial catarrh, mountain pine essence can be sprayed to improve the indoor climate. This makes it easier to breathe. Bathing in mountain pine essence is also recommended for rheumatic complaints. The invigorating bath soothes pain caused by gout.
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A revitalising mountain blessing
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The Josef Mack company has been distilling the healing mountain pine oil since 1856. The distillery in St. Ulrich am Pillersee was established in 1906. Various mountain pine oil products are still produced here today. The mountain pine (mountain blessing) soothes lung conditions and has a positive impact on the body as a whole.
The resourceful pharmacist. The pharmacist and subsequent Mayor of Bad Reichenhall, Matthias Mack, discovered the healing powers of mountain pine in the year that the company was founded and developed a special distillation process. Initially it was difficult to transport the branches of the mountain pine and so mobile distilleries were used and set up wherever the mountain pine was growing. Around the turn of the century, transportation became easier and it was possible to purchase the plot in St. Ulrich am Pillersee. The mountain pine oil has been distilled here since 1906.
and the boiling process continues until the water finally resembles liquid chocolate. During the 80s, German health insurance companies funded spa treatments based on mountain pine essence and this attracted many spa guests to St. Ulrich am Pillersee: up to 100 baths were prepared each day. Bathing is still permitted at the distillery today: there are three large bath tubs on offer. The baths are comparable to a sauna session and the temperatures of 36 to 38 degrees stimulate the cardiovascular system.
The distillation process
Production
The process has barely changed since the beginning of the 20th century. Small pieces of the mountain pine branches are boiled up in water in two large vats. Steam distillation is a careful process which does not hinder the effect of the oil in any way. The water then condenses in a Florentine flask. The lighter oil floats to the top and can simply be separated off. Two tonnes of mountain pine produce around 4 to 7 litres of oil. In its pure form, the oil is too sharp to be applied directly to the skin and so instead is applied along with soothing substances: the best known of these is mountain pine skin salve to rub into the skin but there are also shower creams, foot balms and herb soaps.
Fir and spruce are also distilled in St. Ulrich am Pillersee in addition to mountain pine. Each year, 200,000 tonnes of material are processed – corresponding to some 550 litres of oil. The wood is sourced from the districts of Kitzbühel and Kufstein. The work is based on the principle of sustainability: the mountain pine is never completely removed, only cut back. The mountain pine trees play a significant role in providing natural avalanche protection which is why they have been nicknamed the ‘mountain blessing’.
Bath essence Another famous product from Mack is the vitality bath. The water in which the mountain pine is boiled up resembles black tea. This liquid is evaporated over a period of 12 weeks while stirring constantly at 85 degrees. It is then refilled
Opening time s: From the st art of May til end of October : Mon to Fr i from 9:00 til 17:00 Sat and Sun from 10:00 til 17:00 Daily tours at 10:00 an d 14:30 The distiller y is open to visitors in any weath er.
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Pharmacist Mathias Mack discovered the healing effects of mountain pine. Various mountain pine oil products are still made in St. Ulrich.
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During the 80s, up to 100 baths each day were run for the spa guests. Guests can still take a bath at the distillery today.
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The mountain pine is still processed further in St. Ulrich am Pillersee today.
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The oil has been distilled in the mountain pine distillery since 1906.
Step inside! Anyone wishing to visit the world’s oldest pine oil distillery will enjoy the expert tours and museum full of treasures. Special tours for groups can also be arranged. Right alongside the main building is a traditional schnapps parlour where guests can sample the excellent brandies, speciality liqueurs and much more.
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Heroes of the mountains
PillerseeTal mountain guides – an interview
Heroes of the mountains
Many summit tours require more than just a good level of fitness; knowledge of the code of conduct in the mountains is also required. For those wishing to embrace adventure, despite a lack of experience, setting out with one of the many mountain guides is a safe way to explore the PillerseeTal.
Heroes of the mountains
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nyone who has answered the call of the mountains and stood alongside a summit cross staring into the distance after an adventurepacked tour will have memories to last a lifetime. And the PillerseeTal offers hiking routes to suit every requirement. Adventure-seekers who want to go higher and higher are in the best of hands with one of the local mountain guides. The comprehensive and tough training they undertake makes them experts in all aspects of mountaineering. We introduce four mountain guides from the region along with their stories.
Thomas Abfalter
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homas Abfalter discovered his passion for mountain climbing through his job: “I was motivated by the first mountain adventure and in particular the camaraderie I experienced at the start of my career at the military academy”. It was here that he began his training as a mountaineer and later as a military mountain guide, skiing instructor and air rescue personnel. Thanks to his experience with the military, Thomas had the opportunity to complete civilian training as a mountain guide. No sooner said than done! Over the years, the father of three has completed many exceptional tours: “The period when I supported my wife Babsi with her exam to become a civilian mountain guide left many lasting impressions on me in particular”. His mountain experiences have changed somewhat over the years. “Our kids love to climb on the tables and boxes at home and enjoy our mountain tours out in the PillerseeTal together,” says Thomas. He describes his motivation for his job as follows: “I want to give the people who place their trust in me a feeling of security and in particular, pass some of my passion for the mountains on to them”.
Barbara Abfalter
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he mountain guide from the PillerseeTal conquered her first 3,000m peak at the age of 6 – the Hochschober. “While my school friends were interested in partying and shopping, I found myself high up among the chamois,” Barbara explains. Suitable climbing partners were a rarity at this time but that was soon to change. “During my studies, I spent a lot of time out in the Wilder Kaiser on the Steinplatte and in the Kitzbühel Alps with my now husband, Tom. As a military mountain guide, he completed the state training to become a mountain guide. I trained with him in some exceptional places such as a frozen waterfall in Norway”, Barbara remembers. Her desire to complete the training herself developed during their adventures together. Her husband said: “By all means try, but with so many applicants, you’ll probably get kicked out”. But her other half was proved wrong in the end and after two years, the mountaineer passed the tough exam and can now officially call herself a mountain guide. She is currently on maternity leave yet despite this, still works every day. She is also a personal mountain guide to her three children and spends as many days as possible out in the Lofer Mountains with her family.
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: BRUNN FIEBER Fleckl, in rt a ann, M m id W Toni chner, eter Le Hans-P Kogler Markus SEE: PILLER M A H IC R ST. UL Simair Georg
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Heroes of the mountains
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Willi Reich
fter 20 years of experience in the Eastern and Western Alps, 40 year old Willi Reich wanted to explore a new dimension of mountain climbing. Together with four colleagues, he tackled the Ama Dablan, a 6,856m peak in the Himalayas – close to Mount Everest. “In order to acclimatise in advance, I spent three weeks adjusting to the altitude, completing 50,000 m of altitude on foot and 5,000 km by bike. Oh yes, and twice a week there was a 15 km trail run,” says the adventurer. After months of preparation, the team flew out to Kathmandu and a few days later, reached the basecamp at 4,800m at the base of the wall leading to their destination. The stable weather forecast enabled the mountaineers to start their climb, after another day of rest. The gear, equipment and catering all had to be transported up to the camp at 5,800m. Before setting off from here for the final climb, they spent another two days here resting at
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artin Möllinger discovered his passion for the mountains late in life. “A colleague started to train to become a mountain guide and I wanted to copy him,” explains the PillerseeTal local who completed his mountain guide exam at the age of 35. “The training is really tough. I had to complete four 14-day courses: two ski guide courses, one rock training course on the Wilder Kaiser and an ice course on the Grossglockner,” Martin recalls, sharing a funny story from the 70s: “I was guiding a young American to the Predigtstuhl on the Wilder Kaiser. The lad couldn’t speak any German and I had almost no English apart from ‘I am very tired” – I understood that!”
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up to the summit. Martin loves his job in the mountains: “I spend most of my time out in nature, get to know lots of exciting characters and can be my own boss. On the long-distance footpaths in particular, when we go from one mountain lodge to the next, you always learn something new and find inner peace”. His favourite destination in the PillerseeTal is the Mitterhorn in the Lofer Mountains. “The tour takes around 4 hours. You have to start in the early morning because it can get very hot there in summer”. Martin feels that the role of mountain guide comes with great responsibility. “You have lots of great and fun adventures but sometimes it can also be dangerous. Once I went straight into a rock face with a guest when a heavy storm caught us by surprise. You have to be able to keep your cool and guide your guests safely back down into the valley”.
Martin Möllinger
After repeating the sentence several times, the guide took pity on his guest and carried his own rucksack and that of the boy 34
the basecamp. Revitalised and full of drive, they headed off for their final starting point. Still in darkness, the men climbed the first pitches on the granite pillar, the thin air becoming increasingly noticeable. A significant icy overhang presented a particular danger. When part of this broke off during the 90s, it claimed the life of the son of Mount Everest’s first climber, Sir Hillary. The final obstacle before the 300m long summit flank was an arduous mountain cleft. After 7 hours of exertion, the team reached the peak of the Ama Dablan. The views all round the 8,000m peak in the bright sunshine filled Martin with an emotion he had never felt before. “After enjoying being at the top for an hour, we abseiled back down to the camp over the rocks and ice. After 37 hours of no sleep, I crawled exhausted but elated into my sleeping bag. My thoughts flitted to my family and I thanked God that everything had gone well,” says the mountain guide from the PillerseeTal.
Fun Connection in Fieberbrunn
Feel alive
If you want to experience unforgettable adventure out in nature, you will be in the best of hands with the experienced team from Fun Connection.
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un Connection has made a name for itself as a mountain sports school and outdoor specialist far beyond the borders of the PillerseeTal. The experienced team have been offering safe ‘FUN’ with cool experiences for all age groups for over 20 years. These include company events and school sports programmes. Markus Kogler and Richard Mayrl have a clear goal in mind: they are passionate about sharing their fascination with the mountains with their guests – with fun, action and adrenaline included!
Let the games begin! · Canyoning · Climbing · Via ferrata · Own high ropes course · Archery · Hiking
· Mountaineering · Biking · Rafting · Paragliding · Stand-up paddling
Event 8: 201 highlights
Fun Connection Lindau 19a, A-6391 Fieberbrunn Richard Mayrl +43 664 432 97 30 Markus Kogler +43 664 263 78 72 office@func.at www.func.at
: 4 June 23 to 2 walk ’ - 24h h c s a rgm ‘Stoabe ust: 11 Aug y’ r Troph e d lo e ‘Wildse lon th a u d in Mounta
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‘Erlebnispark Familienland’ theme park
Come in, come in!
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Top attractions at a glance • Fun farmland • Austria’s highest family rollercoaster • Wild raft • Pirate ship • Tourist train • Cowboy western swing • Plane carousel • Kneipp hydrotherapy • Petting zoo • Crocodile hunt • Softball canons • Viking land • Indoor climbing hall • Salt grotto for relaxation
Anyone wishing to simply leave everyday life far behind and delve into a fantasy world with good mood guaranteed will find the ‘Erlebnispark Familienland’ theme park in St. Jakob to be the perfect place.
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hether kindergarten kids, primary school children, young-at-heart adults or even grandparents – almost everyone gets bitten by the theme park bug.
Opening ti
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Daily fro m 1 Ma y from 10 :00 to 1 8:00 www.fre izeitpark .tirol
decides to take a day’s holiday and the region is rainy, the modern indoor climbing hall complete with bouldering area and trampolines is the ideal place for some fun.
The indescribable feeling sets in almost as soon as you have stepped out of the car and seen the first attractions. Your heart rate quickens, the corners of your mouth turn upwards and you can hardly wait to step inside this world, far away from the usual everyday life. The Familienland in St. Jakob in Haus offers fun, games and action for all ages over an area of 22,000 m2.
The stuff dreams are made of The story of the Familienland started two decades ago. In 1997, Sepp Berger together with his wife and three children decided to set up a small family business. What started out with a few playhouses, swings and a slide tower quickly developed over the years. For the last 21 years, the Berger family have been pursuing their goal of providing visitors with an unforgettable day. And Austria’s highest family rollercoaster offers a real adrenaline rush. 500m long, 22m high and with speeds of up to 80 km/h – no other rollercoaster approved for all ages reaches these speeds. Once the rollercoaster has finished, you will find yourself the next moment on the wild river, rafting your way to the end. And if fast-paced action is not so much your thing, you can relax in the cosy petting zoo or fun farmland. Visitors can choose from over 40 diverse attractions. And when the sun
Tradition TH E B R E N N H Ü TTE .
150 YEAR OLD WOOD, TRADITIONAL HEARTY FOOD AND THE AUTHENTIC CHARM OF TYROLEAN ORIGINALITY – OUR BRENNHÜTTE ON THE STEINPLATTE IS A TREASURE OF A MOUNTAIN LODGE – WITH DREAMY VIEWS. HOT EL S ENDLHOF Riedlsperger family Grünwaldweg 10 6384 Waidring in Tirol | Österreich
T: +43 (0) 5353 20 183 info@hotel-sendlhof.at www.hotel-sendlhof.at
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EVENTHIGHLIGHTS IN SUMMER 2018 1 to 3 June
Rock Days 11 August
Bourbon Street Festival
Register for the workshops at www.rockdays.at
‘Rock Days’ will again be taking place in 2018 with lots of events focused around climbing. The 3-day festival offers workshops, an exhibition area, numerous activities away from the climbing wall and as a highlight, the ‘Rock Disaster’ – a free solo competition where time and skill come into play!
Fieberbrunn village centre will be transformed into a musical hotspot on 11 August. Live bands will be creating a fantastic atmosphere on the main stage in the village square and at various venues with blues, jazz and rock melodies. On the day of the festival, the centre will be turned into a mini Bourbon Street and visitors can enjoy music, cuisine and good entertainment. Free admission!
22 September to 10 November 22 to 26 August
wasserFEST What began as a simple slackline event has now developed into a real insider festival tip. During wasserFEST, everything at the Lauchsee lake in Fieberbrunn will be about nature, balance and creativity. Based on the motto of ‘From the head to the body’, a lively programme will again be on offer. From Acro Yoga to meditation, massage and original slacklining and much more – everything needed to treat your body, mind and soul to some time out.
Cultural autumn in Hochfilzen The ‘Kulturherbst’ (Cultural Autumn) event will be taking place in Hochfilzen for the 24th time and the programme has already been released: in addition to cabaret artist Tricky Niki and his current programme ‘Hypochondria – everything will be good (again)’, chart-toppers ‘Flowrag’, Ina Regen and ‘Die Hoameligen’ will also be providing some unforgettable times in Hochfilzen with traditional folk music and acoustic and jazz pop.
Summer-long events in the PillerseeTal MON
TUE
GAMES AND ADVENTURE NIGHT
FIEBERBRUNN STROLL NIGHT
WAIDRING 9 July til 27 August
FIEBERBRUNN 10 July to 28 August
WED
FRI
LAKE LIGHTS ON THE PILLERSEE
MARKET DAY
ST. ULRICH AM PILLERSEE 20 June til 12 September
FIEBERBRUNN UND ST. ULRICH AM PILLERSEE 29 June til 28 September
More information on this and other events at www.pillerseetal.at
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expand your * WITH EXTRA POWER
horizons*
Your sports shop 4 x in the Pillerseetal
• Optimal Advice • E-Bike and mountain bike rental
online reservation intersportrent.at INTERSPORT GÜNTHER, ST. ULRICH, Buchenstein 12, Tel. +43 (0)5354/88112 INTERSPORT GÜNTHER, FIEBERBRUNN, Dorfstraße 24, Tel. +43 (0)5354/52620
E-mail: info@intersportguenther.at, www.intersportguenther.at
INTERSPORT KIENPOINTNER, WAIDRING, Dorfmitte, Tel. +43 (0)5353/5451 INTERSPORT KIENPOINTNER, WAIDRING, Talstation Steinplatte, Tel. +43 (0)5353/5584
E-mail: info@intersport-kienpointner.at, www.intersport-kienpointner.at
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