EN My Zillertal in Winter - Above the clouds

IN WINTER

Above the clouds The sun shines on the slopes.

And the mountains create a magnificent panorama. The line between you and nature blurs. You are in the flow and enjoying every metre of the descent. You can ski anywhere. But only here will it broaden your horizons.

Snow-tastic.

You only feel it here.

Welcome o

W E LC O M E !

Zillertal.

Discover, Experience, Enjoy.

Beate Kassner Managing Director of Zillertal Tourismus GmbH

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Contents 16

Sports, Fun, Action Introducing the four regions of Zillertal: All of the facts and highlights from Fügen-Kaltenbach, Zell-Gerlos, Mayrhofen-Hippach and TuxFinkenberg.

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The Ptarmigan Phenomenon If you listen and look closely, you may discover it in the heights of the Zillertal mountains. The ptarmigan is a master of camouflage and leisureliness.

14 A Holiday with Heart 24 The Zillertal Superskipass 26 On the Slopes 34 Culinary Tips 42 Freeride Tips 50 Tips for Children 56 Puzzles for Children 64 Action Tips 68 Away from the Slopes 70 Winter Magic Ginzling 74 Cross-country Skiing Tips 98 Imprint, Puzzle Solutions 100 Summit Profile 102 Service

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Winning Smile Sabrina Simader was born in Kenya, grew up in Austria and trains in Zillertal to become a world-class skier.

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Dreamer and Rebel The Spanish painter Anton Unai followed the artistic call that came from the mountains and continues to live his vision of poetry, provocation and a better world in Zillertal.

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A Love of Bacon Anyone who says Zillertal, also has to say bacon. The passion for hearty food has a long-standing culinary tradition. A story from Enzianhof, where craftsmanship turns taste into an experience.

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Enjoyment like You're on Holiday Delicious recipes with bacon.

COVERFOTO: TOM KLOCKER; FOTOS: KEVIN ILSE, MIRCO TALIERCIO, TOM KLOCKER, CHRISTOPH JOHANN

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Above the Clouds … … Freedom seems limitless.

The mountain calls, and we hold our breath. Time to look around and marvel. Tom Klocker's photos are an experience.

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From Hut to Hut The Skifood Festival is a delicacy hit.

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When the Snow Blows Freeriding as an alpine adventure.

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Have Fun on the Ahorn The Genießerberg as a paradise for children

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Effects for the Air Show The landingbag as a challenge.

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A N E N D LE S S E X PA N S E

ABOVE THE

clouds …

… freedom must be boundless. The magic word in Zillertal is longing. For activity and the feeling of being at one with nature. For those moments of inner peace.

The mountain calls, and we hold our breath.

PHOTOS Tom Klocker

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Experience Away with the first gondola in Kaltenbach. Ascend towards Wimbachkopf at 2,442 metres, continue along the ridge. First tracks in deep powder. The sun rises as Anna Maria Gürtler looks down into the valley and pauses to admire the beauty.

The morning glow of this dreamlike mountain world.

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A N E N D LE S S E X PA N S E

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Elevate The Zillertal Arena is ready, the gondola takes us up the mountain. Before sunset we reach the starting point below the Kreuzjoch. Stefan Gruber takes off, we follow him in tandem, enjoying the rendezvous with the gliding sun – and the view over the sea of clouds.

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A N E N D LE S S E X PA N S E

Submit The gift of wonder. From Mayrhofen the spirit of adventure leads us up past the Schlegeis reservoir and towards the summit. As we proceed, the carpet of clouds opens up, revealing the Hochfeiler massif.

We linger in awe.

Great nature, great emotions.

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A N E N D LE S S E X PA N S E

Strive Upwards. From Hintertux we are drawn up the glacier, to the summit of the Kleiner Kaserer, beyond the 3,000-metre mark. Markus Kröll wanders along the ridge, followed by the cold. But the sight of nature is warming. The sun takes its leave on the horizon, we look back humbly.

Tom Klocker travelled the world as a professional snowboarder. Then he injured himself – and has been causing quite a stir as a photographer ever since.

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E X P E R I E N C E Z I LLE R TA L

Zillertal

Holiday with Heart

Off to experience nature! Where sun, snow and well-being become the meaning of life and where great freedom tempts you to let go.

GRAPHICS Andreas Posselt

W

elcome to Zillertal, to a sunny atmosphere and fresh winter air! Where boundless freedom beckons and well-being and enjoyment are the most important things. Get away from the stress of everyday life, immerse yourself in the wonders of nature. Endless pistes, snow-covered slopes and the fascinating world of the mountains await you here.

With a total of 542 kilometres of pistes, the ski valley offers pure enjoyment in the snow.

Whether it's on the magnificent family routes or the long, sporty valley descents – in Zillertal all winter sports enthusiasts will always find the perfect conditions and perfectly groomed pistes.

And those looking for adventure will not only find numerous snow parks and fun

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lines that are full of action, but also extraordinary freeride routes. Culinary excellence is guaranteed in the 80 romantic and stylish huts in Zillertal, and even down in the valley, Zillertal gastronomy has made it its mission to reinterpret tradition and present it in a contemporary way. With a special focus on regionality.

But even away from the slopes, in the midst of beautiful nature, you can enjoy a welcome change on various hikes, crosscountry skiing or exciting toboggan runs.

Hospitality and sincere friendliness are what unites the four regions of FügenK a ltenbac h, Z el l- G erlos, Mayrhofen-Hippach and TuxFinkenberg. Being in Zillertal quickly turns into visiting friends.

Enjoy the winter paradise!

Namesake

World of Mountains

Hospitality

The Ziller, a 56 kilometre-long river.

The source lies 2,270 metres high in Brandberg. It flows from south to north and joins the Inn at Strass (517 metres).

Surrounded by many threethousand metre peaks, the wide, sunny valley stretches for over 47 kilometres. Including a glacier highlight with 365 ski days a year.

In Zillertal there is a fine selection of suitable retreats - from cosy private rooms to luxury hotels.

And one motto: Arrive. Relax.

Enjoy.

Tradition

Culinary Art

Sports

Whether it's cultural events or centuries-old craftsmanship, bands or unique traditional costumes - in Zillertal, living traditions are always an experience.

In Zillertal, culinary experiences are guaranteed not only in the mountain restaurants and mountain huts, but also in the many excellent inns and Gault&Millau toque-awarded eateries.

Variety trumps everything here.

Perfect ski pistes, cross-country ski trails and toboggan runs guarantee holiday fun as well as ice skating rinks, hiking trails, via ferratas or swimming pools.

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PHOTO: CHRISTOPH JOHANN

E X P E R I E N C E Z I LLE R TA L

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Fügen-Kaltenbach Where culinary enjoyment and a variety of sporting activities come together.

At the entrance to the Zillertal, where the valley is widest and the sun shines longest, lies the winter paradise of the First Holiday Region in Zillertal, with superbly groomed pistes, snow-covered descents through the valley and endless freeride opportunities. In the Hochzillertal-Hochfügen ski region, you can enjoy skiing with a stop by the lodge: Stylish and cosy huts provide culinary highlights-breathtaking panorama included.

The Spieljoch ski area in Fügen with its Funpark, Funslope, toboggan run and wide pistes is particularly suitable for families. You can enjoy a leisurely break with traditional and international specialities on numerous sun terraces.

The crowning touch is the long, snow-covered descent down to Fügen in the valley.

The Highlights in Winter • 114 kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes and 43 state-of-the-art lifts.

• CATSkiing: Canada feeling that will fulfil your "First Line" snow dreams.

• NEW: Kabooom, the recreation centre in Kaltenbach for "everything under one roof".

• Erlebnistherme Zillertal: Fun, action & relaxation.

• Night skiing: Weekly in Hochzillertal and Hochfügen.

• Betterpark Hochzillertal with a chill-out area.

• VIP gondola: Float up the mountain in HochzillertalKaltenbach just like in a exclusive limousine.

• Zwergerl Club: A chlidcare centre for visitors with children from 3 months to 7 years old.

• Early bird skiing: In Hochzillertal-Kaltenbach daily from 7:30 a.m.

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E X P E R I E N C E Z I LLE R TA L

Zell-Gerlos Where the fun and action of skiing is guaranteed on and off the slopes.

Fun on the slopes, rustic huts, perfect sunny slopes, dreamy side valleys - that and much more is exactly what Zell-Gerlos and the Zillertal Arena, the largest connected ski area in the Zillertal and Salzburg Pinzgau, stand for.

Fun and action is guaranteed for the whole family on and off the slopes.

Zell am Ziller is located in the heart of Zillertal, the perfect starting point for a variety of skiing days throughout the valley. Gerlos lies at 1,300 metres – guaranteed to be snowy and idyllic. The small Gerlosstein ski hill offers both families and enthusiasts fun on the slopes, free snowtubing on specially maintained tracks and a seven-kilometre-long toboggan run, which is illuminated until one o'clock at night, with a pleasant place to stop for a bite to eat.

The Highlights in Winter • 147 kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes and 52 state-of-the-art lifts.

• Pure action: Snowpark Gerlos, Funpark Hochkrimml, Action park Kreuzwiese, Shred School.

• Good Morning Skiing: twice a

• Funty: The mascot has a

week in March from 6:55 a.m.

few surprises in store.

• Cross-country skiing: Illuminated • Arena Coaster: Tobogganing trails in Gerlos.

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fun on the alpine coaster.

• Arena Champions Tour: 5 Ski Movies, 4 Speed Checks and 5 Photopoints.

• NEW: Winter hiking trail "Almpromenade" Gerlosstein.

• NEW: Wiesenalm – serviced restaurant in Zell am Ziller.

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PHOTO: CHRISTOPH JOHANN

PHOTO: CHRISTOPH JOHANN

E X P E R I E N C E Z I LLE R TA L

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Mayrhofen-Hippach Where the true magic of winter offers the steepest skiing experience.

Mayrhofen-Hippach is a diverse holiday region. Here, pistes with guaranteed snow, fantastic winter hiking trails and perfect cross-country ski trails meet culinary variety and living traditions. If you are looking for a physical challenge, you cannot miss Actionberg Penken. Here, Austria's steepest skiing experience awaits the very brave: the legendary Harakiri with a 78 per cent incline.

The Penken Park, one of the best snowparks in Europe, and the racing paradise in Unterberg are also full of action.

The Genießerberg Ahorn is the perfect winter world for beginners, families and pleasure-seekers. Sunny, wide pistes are ideal for elegant turns and initial attempts for motivated newcomers to the pistes.

The Highlights in Winter • 142 kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes and 59 state-of-the-art lifts.

• Talabfahrt Ahorn: A challenging, 5.5 kilometre long black piste.

• Family Park with child-friendly obstacles at the Fun Ride Ahorn.

• For kids: Albert Adler Tour on the Ahorn & Karl Kraxler Tour on the Penken.

• Erlebnisbad Mayrhofen: Fun in

• Morning exercise on the Ahorn.

the water for the whole family.

Lift in operation from 7:30 a.m.

• Mayrhofen Trophy: Overcome ski area challenges with the chance of winning great prizes.

• 4 winter hiking trails on the Ahorn & Penken.

• Lift passes can be easily booked online via myZillertal.app.

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E X P E R I E N C E Z I LLE R TA L

Tux-Finkenberg Where skiing adventures are guaranteed 365 days a year.

The Tuxertal valley ranges from 850 to 3,250 metres and is therefore one of the most reliable areas for snow in Austria.

The Tux-Finkenberg holiday region is synonymous with snow-covered landscapes, romantic mountain scenery and warm hospitality. Eggalm, Rastkogel, Finkenberg, Penken, Ahorn and Austria's only year-round ski area, the Hintertux Glacier, form the Zillertal 3000 Ski & Glacier World.

Perfectly groomed pistes, Funslopes and Kidsslopes as well as demanding freeride slopes and mogul pistes make every winter athlete's heart beat faster.

The Hintertux Glacier guarantees skiing 365 days per year, and springtime will spoil you with the finest corn snow and sun skiing.

The Highlights in Winter • 202 kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes and 66 state-of-the-art lifts.

• Boat trip inside the glacier in the Natur Eis Palast at 3,250 m.

• Schwarze Pfanne: Panorama descent down the valley to Hintertux.

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• Hits for Kids: Pepis Kinderland

• Winter Action: Natural ice rink,

on Penkenjoch, Funslope, Kidsslope and Flea Park Hintertux.

cross-country skiing trails, winter hiking trails, natural toboggan runs etc.

• Impressive views from the

• NEW: The highest-altitude fondue

panoramic terrace at 3,250 m.

• Gondola breakfast on the Hintertux Glacier.

in the Spannagelhaus at 2,531 m.

• Betterpark Hintertux: The highest freestyle spot in Austria.

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PHOTO: CHRISTOPH JOHANN

E X P E R I E N C E Z I LLE R TA L

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On the slopes, ready, go!

The Superskipass is the ultimate ticket to ski happiness in Zillertal. Enjoy pure freedom!

Your all-in-one ticket for unlimited fun on the slopes in the most active ski valley in the world.

The Zillertal Superskipass is available from early December until mid of April on all 542 kilometres of perfectly groomed slopes and on 180 lifts in the four large ski areas (Hochzillertal-Hochfügen-Spieljoch, Zillertal Arena, Mayrhofner Bergbahnen, Ski & Glacier World Zillertal 3000)*.

You can freely choose the period of validity of the Superskipass from 2 to 21 days.

A ski pass is only available for the individual ski hills up until 1½ days.

PHOTO: CHRISTOPH JOHANN

You can use all of the skibuses and most public transport in the valley free of charge with the Zillertal Superskipass.

*All prices and information, as well as the operating hours of the ski resorts and the terms of use for free transportation in the ski buses can be found at: www.zillertal.at/superskipass/en

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O N T H E S LO P E S

ZILLERTAL

Where movement is a way of life GRAPHICS Andreas Posselt

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Gondolas and state-of-the-art lifts

Funlines

Guaranteed enjoyment skiing, plus mountain panorama

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Snow and Funparks

542

kilometres of perfectly groomed pistes ... from 630 m 171 km easy 269 km intermediate to 56 km difficult 3,250 m 36 km of ski routes 10 park tours

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1a

365

days per year of skiing guaranteed on the Hintertux Glacier, Austria's only year-round ski hill

7 7 10

SkiMovie Routes

Speed-Check Routes

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Photopoints

catered huts in the skiing area

Ski schools

For the little ones

teaching in 17 languages

28 Facilities with childcare services

Zillertal Superskipass The All-in-one Ticket for the entire valley

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Skibus lines Explore all ski hills in the valley – free with the Zillertal Superskipass

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F E S T I VA L F O R F O O D I E S

GLIDING BOLDLY INTO

culinary delight 14 international culinary arts in 14 huts. The Ski Food Festival in Hochzillertal-Kaltenbach and at the Spieljoch in Fügen guarantees an unforgettable culinary experience.

TEXT Michael Hufnagl PHOTOS Mirco Taliercio

T

here are some ideas that are ahead of their time. That tempt your senses with an amazing confidence. And that put quality before quantity out of conviction.

Thus, five years ago the idea was born to take hut cuisine in Fügen-Kaltenbach to a new level and combine it with the pleasure of skiing in a unique way. Thought, done. The Ski Food Festival was born, and it was blessed with so much enthusiasm right from the very first powder turns and the very first fine morsels of food, it was as though it had always been part of the magic of winter.

Every Bite an Experience

"The nice thing is that all the hut owners join in", says managing director and initiator Martha Schultz. "During this period we are able to offer our guests exquisite cuisine in a special style across fourteen different huts in Hochzillertal and Spieljoch." The special feature is the well thought-out idea to combine regionality and internationality into a sort of culinary rendezvous, with the

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Select delicacies such as some fine sushi as a symbol of the interplay between skiing and culinary art. Fine dining on the lift and in the hut – when ambition turns into reality.

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F E S T I VA L F O R F O O D I E S

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ILLUSTRATION: ANDREAS POSSELT; ADDITIONAL PHOTOS: WWW.SCHULTZ-SKI.AT/BECKNAPHOTO

1. Dinner's served: when mountains and cauliflower (Brussels sprouts) form an appetising symbiosis.

2. Precision work to achieve the right salmon experience in terms of culinary quality.

3. Speck, cheese and a lot of love – that's what true hut enchantment looks like.

4. Feeling good with a view. With a special ice cream dessert to round it all off.

1 2

3

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"The festival guarantees a delightful gathering with a beautiful symbolism."

Initiator Martha Schultz

possibility to turn from one delicacy to the next. And so this year on 11 and 12 December, for the fourth time in the mountains, the food will be cooked up so that every bite will be an unforgettable experience and every stop at the hut a promise.

The amuse-gueules should play a decisive role in this. As tastings will be served at the lower stations of the lifts. What an experience! Glide up the mountain with an exquisite selection of finger food, with Danish or Italian, Croatian or French and of course Austrian snacks – an assortment that

is certainly more than just a pleasure to eat.

Especially since it doesn't involve you having to dig around for money, because all the goodies are free of charge.

Once at the top, the cuisine from 14 different nations brings to life a diversity that is unrivalled in the Alps. From Scandinavia to Israel, from Asia to the USA, there are truly no limits to creativity on this culinary journey through the Zillertal mountains. Every hut a country, every dish a message, this could easily be the motto. In an eternal cycle: swish to a halt, have a taste

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F E S T I VA L F O R F O O D I E S

- and keep going. To the next piste, to the next culinary delight. And so in the interest of the idea and in order to keep the cheerful, hungry crowd to a manageable size, we ask that you make reservations for each hut in advance as there are limited places available.

A three-course menu, prepared in front of everyone by award-winning chefs in the 14 huts and served against the magnificent backdrop of the mountain panorama, costs 30 euros. Martha Schultz: "This festival guarantees a delightful gathering with beautiful symbolism."

Sure to Thrill

Gourmet culinary rendezvous. Where there's a Ski Food Festival, there's a seductively prepared steak.

And for those who are still looking for the appropriate end of the evening atmosphere, a world of many delights is planned for Saturday in the inner courtyard of Fügen Castle: All of the restaurateurs and chefs will be presenting their specialities in stands so that visitors will have the chance to taste and perhaps also buy some of the natural and international gastronomy products here and there. Which is sure to thrill not only the guests, but also the locals, who come to look, marvel and chat.

"Anyone who has ever experienced this market atmosphere", says Martha Schultz and laughs, "will certainly have an … appetite for more."

Hochzillertal and Spieljoch Ski Food Festival Austria's most tasteful opening day for skiers will take place on 11 and 12 December 2021.

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14 COUNTRIES, 14 HUTS

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2021

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2021

The Netherlands, Israel, Italy, France, Spain, Norway, Germany, Switzerland, Denmark, Croatia, the USA, Asia (as a mix of nations) … and Austria: As varied as the specialities of these countries are, so too are the huts where they are served: rustic, stylish, cool, cosy.

9–11 a.m.: Delicious free samples at the lifts.

9–11 a.m.: Delicious free samples at the lifts.

From 11 a.m.: National menus and dishes at the huts.

From 11 a.m.: National menus and dishes at the huts.

t Jetz en! ch besu ow! it Vis

n

Entdecke, wie Land und Leute unsere Bierspezialitäten prägen und erfahre dabei so manches Zillertaler Geheimnis.

Discover how the region and its people form our beer specialties and learn about some of the Zillertals secrets.

kemmen schaugn kostn

6280 Zell am Ziller www.braukunsthaus.at

I N S P I R AT I O N S

Everyone knows that feeling when, after an amazing day in the snow, something very demanding emerges – hunger.

So it‘s a good thing that the gastronomy in Zillertal has always cultivated high standards when it comes to reinterpreting tradition using regional products in a new and contemporary way. Whether in pubs with the „Tiroler Wirtshaus“ seal of approval or in one of the many restaurants awarded toques by Gault&Millau – a refined culinary culture is the kind of welcome that you won‘t soon forget. www.zillertal.at/culinary

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PHOTO: KEVIN ILSE

Culinary Art

Brugger’s Lanersbacher Hof

~ Manana’s

Tux-Finkenberg. Using high-quality ingredients sourced directly from the region, the chefs working under Toni Fercher in Tux-Lanersbach create culinary specialities with a harmonious creativity.

And they do this every day. Every dish at the gourmet hotel is artfully arranged on the plate and appeals equally to the mind and sense of taste.

Zell-Gerlos. Sophisticated enjoyment and refinement are the culinary motto at Mañana‘s, the restaurant in Hotel Kristall in Gerlos. Whether it‘s steaks, carpaccio, tartare or fish specialities, Franz and Gudrun Stöckl rely on high-quality and fresh ingredients. This standard is complemented by a wine list, whose diversity is astonishing.

Hotel Persal

Hotel Bräu

Tux-Finkenberg. In the Zillertaler Wirtshaus everything simply tastes great. Here in Finkenberg, the motto „Really Good“ covers a wide range of regional specialities, game specialities from the Finkenberg hunting area and international specialities.

The manager personally creates and guarantees: Quality and comfort.

Zell-Gerlos. The culinary arts in Zell are always a temptation, and the historic Bräu Stüberl is considered a wonderful place to taste and enjoy traditional Tyrolean dishes. Our own alpine pasture farming and fishing waters provide ideal conditions for old, traditional recipes to flourish. Our motto: unadulterated delicacies.

Landgasthof Linde

Restaurant Sieghard

Fügen-Kaltenbach. Whether it‘s in the rustic lounges or in the wedding hall, in one of the oldest inns in Tyrol, you will find charming hospitality and an excellent kitchen in Stumm. The enchanting fruit and vegetable garden is worth a look, cooking with natural regional products goes without saying.

Mayrhofen-Hippach. Small hotel, big kitchen, that‘s the message. And the gourmet guides convey it in the highest possible terms. Curiosity and an awareness of nature‘s gifts are what the Eder family uses to create their amazing menus in Hippach. For a flavour experience that you will not easily forget.

Gasthof Post

Restaurant ZweiEnder

Fügen-Kaltenbach. It was built about 200 years ago; tradition is very important in Strass. Even in the restaurant. Most of the ingredients come from our own farm, the spices from the herb garden behind the house. In addition to fine cuisine, wine also plays an important part. In the cellar here at Post, there are exquisite vintages for connoisseurs.

Mayrhofen-Hippach. Who can resist that?

Top-quality culinary delicacies, like those prepared in Mayrhofen on the grill at the edge of the forest, are a temptation that you will be only too happy to follow. From veal fillets to lobster, the fire of passion burns here. And even if you prefer to enjoy fondue or oysters – come on in!

Creative and Artistic

Nice and Fresh

Really Good

Traditional Recipes

Charming Hospitality

Highest Terms

FOTO: BERND RITSCHEL

Wine, Very Fine

At the Edge of the Forest

Seal of approval „Tiroler Wirtshaus“

/ Gault&Millau toque-awarded restaurant

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D E E P P OW D E R T R AC KS

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POWDER &

Paradise

Discover the most beautiful lines in Zillertal during the Ride & Shoot Days together with professional snowboarder Werni Stock and photographer Tom Klocker at the Hintertux Glacier. The adventure begins where the pistes end …

TEXT Simon Schöpf PHOTOS Tom Klocker & Simon Schöpf

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D E E P P OW D E R T R AC KS

Panorama & Pose: cool action shots in powder.

A photo shoot that all adventurers can check out …

W

ould you like some Zwebm?", asks Werni with his eternal grin on his face. As he hands us a handful of raisins. Learned something new, linguistically at least. We're sitting at a snack area with a five-star panorama, beyond the 3,000-metre mark; behind us lies a short but sweaty muscle-powered ascent, in front of us: a magnificent view of the giant Zillertal glaciers, from the Großer Möseler to the Olperer.

And one of those "Never End" type untracked powder slopes, with a lake at the very bottom, whose grace could easily make it a Norwegian fjord. "We won't be out of the mountains so quickly", comments Werni dryly on the scene, but not without a hint of pride in his voice.

It doesn't get any more Zillertal than this – neither the panorama nor the people.

We're travelling together with Werni Stock, professional

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snowboarder from Tux. Along with him is another who knows the area inside out: Tom Klocker from Mayrhofen, a professional photographer and Instagram legend with a following that exceeds the population of Austria's capital.

With the first gondola, we're off to the top.

Boards & Dreams

Together we're trying to track down the best powder – sorry, pow!

– that can be found on the vast Hintertux Glacier. We leave the inviting pistes to the left behind; for the motivated ladies Lisa and Anna Maria and the author of these lines, "Ride & Shoot" is the only thing on the programme today. Ride for freeride, shoot for photoshoot – Werni is in charge of the former, Tom the latter. Today is all about the turns and the lines, we want the perfect freeride descent, we want the

flow. And, in this life, you won't get a better chance at finding an untracked slope than with two local heroes. They practically grew up on the Hintertux Glacier and know every possible variation here. And there are lots of them. Because of the altitude, you can find good powder conditions for most of the season, as long as you know where to look. Something they want to share as of this season, the Ride & Shoot Days are entering their first round. "We want to take people along for the day and show them how much fun we have when we shoot. Because the bigger the fun factor, the better the results – call it my secret formula," Tom says about the idea.

It starts off with constant "Griaß di" and "Servus" as we go through the lower station – of course the guys know every lift operator by name. You can find Werni up here almost every day in winter, and

… and this is how an impressive picture looks like. The freerider group with a breathtaking view down to the Schlegeis reservoir.

Some Freeriding ABCs SHARKS: Rocks or stones hiding under a thin layer of snow ready to attack the ski/snowboard surface.

KICKER: Small to large jump for bold tricks in the mountains.

POW: Short for powder. The white gold of freeriders.

SHREDDING: Ploughing joyfully through deep-powder slopes in wide turns and without a care in the world.

Airtime for Werni. When the pro takes off into the untouched landscape, the whole dynamic of freeriding is revealed.

LINES: Freshly made deep-powder tracks.

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D E E P P OW D E R T R AC KS

Spectacular visuals: Anyone who wants to go deeper into the mountains should hire guides.

always with incredible enthusiasm and never-ending good spirits. Ever since he first stood on a snowboard, it was clear to him: This is his world. The really big kickers did it to him, at the legendary Air&Style Contest in Innsbruck he stood on the podium, his freestyle videos are a feast for the eyes. He finished a special one recently, called "Local Surroundings" and was filmed almost exclusively in Zillertal.

"When somebody asks me what the highlight of my career has been so far, I have to say: this video. To be able to show the beauty of my homeland is worth more to me than success in a contest. But of course my success at Air&Style was also a very special moment …", he says.

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"To be able to show the beauty of my homeland is worth more to me than success in a contest."

Werni Stock

"You have to be able to rely on each other one hundred per cent. When shooting as well as riding."

Tom Klocker

The Perfect Turn

Anna Maria and Lisa, Tom and Werni's girlfriends: A break with a view.

Knowing how and where: If you're in the mountains, you should pay attention to instructions.

Freestyle Werni & Sunrise Tom

And freeriding, for Werni and Tom it's not just a pastime, it's their life.

Like Werni, Tom used to be a pro rider too, they got to know each other twenty years ago as young snowboarders in what was then a very manageable scene in the valley.

But for the last few years Tom has instead been focusing on the visual: Shooting instead of shredding.

On all of his journeys, he always had his camera with him, and he picked up tips along the way from

the pros at the worldwide contests.

Then he tore his ACL, the forced break from sports finally kickedoff his photography career. "At first we just called him 'Sunrise Tom'.

He was a little over-motivated and almost every day at sunrise he was already on some summit for his photo", Werni adds. And then enthusiastically states: "How cool is it that your best friend is also a famous photographer?" On a casual day, they'll come out with two or three shots that would be suitable for a magazine cover or Instagram.

But in the backcountry, absolute trust in your buddy counts even more than friendship. In addition to the appropriate equipment such as an avalanche transceiver, shovel and probe, freeriding requires, above all, considerable know-how.

Safety training with a mountain guide is another essential part of the Ride & Shoot Days. "You really have to be able to rely on each other one hundred per cent", says Tom. "When shooting as well as riding."

One key advantage is that Tom carries his years of professional snowboarding knowledge with him just as reliably as his camera backpack and telephoto lens.

When it comes time to build an oversized kicker, for example, he knows exactly how to shape it to the terrain. Because he could jump it himself.

We strap into our boards and get ready for the descent. A long descent: Way, way below us, the waters of the Schlegeis reservoir, the goal of our freeride mission, beckon to us with their turquoise glow. With a shout we dive into the big, endless white, and, after the first few turns, it's clear what drives Werni and Tom, why they search for this feeling over and over again: There's simply nothing better than that one, perfect powder turn.

Ride & Shoot Info: Bring your very own @tomklockerphoto home with you: During the Ride & Shoot Days, which take place for the first time in the glacial spring of 2022, you will be able to discover the amazing possibilities for freeriding on the Hintertux Glacier. Three full days, together with Werni Stock, the best pro in Zillertal, and photography superstar Tom Klocker, together with a mountain guide and safety training.

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I N S P I R AT I O N S

Fans of untouched powder will feel particularly at home in Zillertal, as it is one of the largest deep-snow Eldorados in the Alps.

There are numerous professionals in Zillertal who can show exciting variations, runs and fantastic deep-snow slopes to freeriders and are also able to offer their experience and knowledge regarding safety and techniques.

Because, in the spirit of adventure, it is generally recommended to only do freeride tours with guides. www.zillertal.at/freeriden/en

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PHOTO: TOM KLOCKER

Freeride

Guided Tours

Ostwand Metzen

Mayrhofen-Hippach. Being in good hands is a stroke of luck for mountain adventurers. The same applies to freeriders, who can benefit from the know-how. The Mountain Sports Alpine School in Mayrhofen has been awarded the seal of approval and is run by top mountain guides. Because quality and safety in untracked terrain guarantees peace of mind.

Fügen-Kaltenbach. Experience and detailed planning are worth their weight in gold. At the Hochfügen ski hill, the entire area between the upper station of the Waidoffen chairlift and the peak of Metzen at 2,355 metres is high alpine terrain. The individual lines can be reached on foot from the ridge. And then: The descents are a real thrill.

Camp Action

Wimbachkopf

Mayrhofen-Hippach. Experiencing freedom and having fun is one thing. Knowing exactly what you are doing, is another thing: For all freeride enthusiasts, the SAAC (Snow and Alpine Awareness Camp), which also takes place once a year in Mayrhofen, is more than just a suggestion. There you will find valuable information and tips for adventurers from certified experts.

Fügen-Kaltenbach. With the lift it (still) continues comfortably towards Albergo or Wedelhütte. The winter via ferrata starts from both places and goes in the direction of Wimbachkopf to reach the magical point – where the view falls breathtakingly onto untracked chutes. The terrain has an incline of about 35 degrees and is an unforgettable challenge.

Krummbachalm, Zillertal Arena

Frauenwand, Hintertux Glacier

Zell-Gerlos. The Isskogelbahn in Gerlos, the Ebenfeld-X-Press and the new Stuanmandlbahn will take you to the beginning. It starts out steep, then changes into moderately steep terrain towards the Nöckentalalm. The Krummbachalm can be reached through a steep and open forest. Following the Krummbach, you will return to the lower station of the Isskogelbahn.

Tux-Finkenberg. Beginners or experts, here everyone gets their powder bill. The starting point is the upper station of the Tuxer Joch.

From there it takes about one hour to reach the Frauenwand (2,541 m), a really magnificent and easily accessible area. And with a terrific view as a reward. The highlight is the descent through the open terrain.

Falschriedel, Zillertal Arena

Hoher Riffler, Hintertux Glacier

Zell-Gerlos. The starting point of this simple ride can be reached with the 8-person Falschbach gondola. After a quite short hike to the beautiful Falschriedel peak at 2,420 metres, the route continues over untracked slopes over the south-western ridge towards Falschalm and Falschbach down towards Gerlos.

Tux-Finkenberg. From the Tuxer Fernerhaus, the destination is the Hohe Riffler (3,231 m). Cross a dip and head towards the Schwarze Platte steep slope (where ski crampons are recommended). Following the slope, there is an easy ascent to the peak. And a panorama that will leave you speechless. Almost as speachless as the freeride adventure that follows.

With seals of approval

Learn From the Best

Forest and Stream

FOTO: BERND RITSCHEL

Ridges and Rapture

Ridge Hike

Climbing and Riding

Panorama for everyone

Up in Thin Air

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R E A DY, S E T, F U N !

Let's go! Hannes, Lisa and their two kids Nina and Moritz are looking forward to a fun family ski day.

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WHEN

adventure

CALLS The new Albert Adler Tour on the Ahorn is fun for the whole family. Where giant rolls, snow tunnels and obstacle courses turn children into action heroes.

TEXT Michael Hufnagl PHOTOS Christoph Johann

I

t's just a new approach to life." Lisa is standing at the entrance to the snow tunnel with a beaming face. Behind her the panorama of the magnificent Mayrhofner mountains, above her the sun and in front of her the eight-year-old Moritz coming towards her in a deep tuck – letting out cries of joy. Gone are the days when young mothers would kick back and wait for hours next to the magic carpet, as loving and shivering onlookers, calling out the most charming words of motivation to their children. "A world of adventure has been created here that really makes you want to be a kid again," she says enthusiastically.

Longing for Experiences

This is the Ahorn, also affectionately called Genießerberg. The Fun Ride including the new Family Park is full of action and surprises and offers exactly the kind of experience that children long for.

Papa Hannes stands behind the snow tunnel and gets the smartphone into position. He wants to get Junior on film as he

comes rushing through the cave. He also proudly shot the video of his daughter Nina, while the eleven-year-old swept over the huge waves, her arms stretched in the air, pure joy on her face. Now Moritz is showing off his skills as a jumper, while Nina gives a high five to Albert Adler's giant paw.

Fun Challenges

However, this great family adventure doesn't just take place within a few hundred sundrenched metres. It's not just about a little fun in between – no, the idea is bigger.

The Albert Adler Tour on the Ahorn was also developed: a parallel route next to the piste, which winds its way through the forest full of fun challenges and always returns to the original slope at the turning points – where children can give their parents cheerful progress reports. That is, if the grown-ups haven't already been seized by the desire to tackle the fun twists and turns and snow snails themselves.

Moritz picks up momentum

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R E A DY, S E T, F U N !

A sense of adventure is important in order to successfully get through the tunnel. A deep tuck will of course prove your dynamics.

The whole family is ready for the Albert Adler Tour and the many fun challenges along the way.

46

Look to the right, stretch out your hand … and give a high five. When concentration and a sense of balance are required.

Lisa and Hannes look proudly at Moritz, who has already added the cool jumps to his repertoire here in the Family Park.

"The tour is really an experience that you can enjoy over and over again."

Ski-Papa Hannes

and at full speed lets his ski pole rattle over the colourful tubes of the large xylophone at the edge of the track – a ringing that makes for fun background adventurer music. And Mascot Albert Adler is always part of the action and shows the way with his cheeky grin. "The tour is a great experience for the whole family from top to bottom," says Hannes before he swings over the sleigh shovels in pairs with Moritz. "It's challenging and diverse – you can enjoy it over and over again …"

Coordination with a Fun Factor

This may also be due to the fact that the slope incline on the daily well-groomed course is very moderate and keeps your inhibitions at bay – whether beginner or advanced, skier or snowboarder. You can learn the necessary coordination and motor skills in a playful way here. And of course, after countless descents, both children know exactly what is waiting for them at the end of the tour on the now well-known piste 4a: "We'll get our picture

47

R E A DY, S E T, F U N !

All four together on the Fun Ride, ski fun for the whole family.

taken there", say the siblings and laugh at the competition. "You have to look cool", says Moritz.

"I'd rather smile," says Nina. In any case, the Albert Adler speed camera is ready and takes snapshots of all the racers at the finish. Moritz and Nina can view the photos later at the lower station of the Ebenwald Lift and download them with their ski pass numbers.

Flashes as Memories

Lisa rounds up the family.

Even though it's tough because the kids are always on the go. But she wants all four of them to get their photo taken for once. For the memory. And as a recommendation for her friends. "Come on over here and show me how much fun a day of skiing can be," Albert Adler would probably shout (or croak) if he could speak. And if you were to look closely, you would certainly see his cheeky wink.

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A little refreshment between adventures – then it's back on the pistes for Lisa and Moritz.

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PHOTO: SWAROVSKI

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I N S P I R AT I O N S

Action-packed experiences, impressive moments in nature, extraordinary experiences thanks to the countless possibilities for excursions. When thinking of family fun, all you have to say is Zillertal. Where the most enjoyable adventures are guaranteed for children of all ages. Climbing? Sure!

Tobogganing? Of course!

Piste adventures with turns, rolls and tunnels? Let‘s go!

The offer for young and old just keeps growing and growing. And in the end you‘ll only be thinking one thing: We definitely have to come back! www.zillertal.at/kids/en

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PHOTO: CHRISTOPH JOHANN

Kids Fun

Kabooom

Pistenbock

Fügen-Kaltenbach. Everything under one roof: The AIRPARC with its trampoline course, skate and freestyle area is by far the largest of its kind and is one of the many highlights in the new recreation centre in Kaltenbach. Skating rink, bouldering wall, bowling alley, squash hall, dance studio and a bistro offer a variety of special experiences.

Mayrhofen-Hippach. On your bucks, get set, go! For those who don’t like putting on their skis or board, there is also the possibility to grab a toboggan with steering on the Genießerberg Ahorn. This is where the Pistenbocks are waiting to be tamed on a special track. Regardless of if you’re on a single or double seater, only one thing is important: hold on tight!

JUZI Line

Kinderland & Karl Kraxler

Fügen-Kaltenbach. It all depends on the mixture.

The JUZI Line at the Hochfügen ski hill contains elements of piste, cross and snowpark. The course goes over steep curves, rollers, hills or crazy snow lines. A dwarf, who sings the songs of the Jungen Zillertalern, adds to the atmosphere. A lot of fun for the entire family.

Mayrhofen-Hippach. Off to Actionberg Penken!

Where the mascot Karl Kraxler guides the kids on the cheerful downhill run on piste 25. Fun is also guaranteed at Kinderland Horberg: A 69 metre long magic carpet is waiting for little adventurers.

For those who prefer not to ski, flying saucers are available to slide around on.

Snowtubing & Tobogganing

Natural Toboggan Runs

Zell-Gerlos. In the Gerlosstein am Hainzenberg ski hill, the big party turns into a fun programme: Two snowtubing tracks can be flown down on large tyres - and that free of charge. Additionally, the longest toboggan run in Zillertal (7 km) offers tobogganing fun for the whole family. The best part: The toboggan run stays lit up until one o’clock at night.

Tux-Finkenberg. One! Two! Or three! If you’re going tobogganing, you should do it right. You can race with your toboggan down into the valley on three natural tracks from Bichlalm, Grieralm and Höllensteinhütte. You can first enjoy a pleasant dinner at the hut and then take advantage of the illuminated routes to get an exhilarating feeling.

Arena Champions Tour

Kidsslope Rastkogel

Zell-Gerlos. Having fun all the time, that’s what the Zillertal Arena is all about. Here 5 ski film tracks, 4 speed check tracks and 5 photo points invite you to participate in an exciting challenge. Those who manage to complete at least 6 of the 14 stations get to call themselves Arena Champion and receive a digital photo album as a reminder.

Tux-Finkenberg. There’s nothing like an exciting rendezvous with Luis the glacier flea. He is always a cheerful and loyal companion when it comes to conquering the unforgettable Kidsslope in the Ski and Glacier World Zillertal 3000. The terrain is flat, but you are guaranteed some steep fun in the ice tunnel and on the snow waves.

Special Experiences

Please Hold On

Steep Curves and a Dwarf Fun on the Magic Carpet

Tubing Duel

FOTO: BERND RITSCHEL

A Happy Adventure

Trio infernale

Fun with Fleas

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A LL I N W H I T E

A SNOWBALL

with a beak The ptarmigan is an almost invisible bird that causes surprise high up in the Alps and to which Zillertal is dedicating its own research project.

TEXT Wolfgang M. Gran

Master of Disguise

In any case, it is definitely worth trying, because the ptarmigan is a fascinating animal. It has mastered its life above the tree line in many ways. For example, it is a master of disguise who can adapt its feathers to the environment during the seasons: In its white winter outfit, it is almost impossible to distinguish this fantastic bird from the snow, in spring, with its brown spotted spring robe, it merges visually with the rugged rocks over which it moves. It is not easy

52

to see a ptarmigan. But some hikers may have heard it already – without knowing it. Because the call of the ptarmigan is reminiscent of the soft croaking of a frog.

The ptarmigan is also a master in energy management. It lives very calmly and on low flame in winter. This is also necessary. Because in winter, when there is hardly any food, extreme energy management is essential.

This characteristic can easily shock many ski tourers.

Because the bird, which is almost invisible in the snow, often flutters away

PHOTO: MAURITIUS IMAGES/MINDEN PICTURES

I

t is not easy when you are looking for something that can make itself almost invisible. But if you get the timing right, it can work out. In this case, the right time means: Anyone who wants to admire the Alpine ptarmigan with their own eyes must not only get up early, but also wait until the ptarmigan gets spring fever. When the bird's mating instinct takes over in April, we ask that you keep your distance.

As a master of disguise, the ptarmigan almost completely blends in with its surroundings.

Facts CHARACTERISTICS: The rock ptarmigan can grow up to 40 centimetres long and weigh 750 grams.

HABITAT: In alpine high altitudes above 1,800 metres, in open terrain and above the tree line.

WAY OF LIVING: Ptarmigans hibernate in groups, but they disperse at the beginning of mating season (April).

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A LL I N W H I T E

from someone approaching only at the last moment when its peace is disturbed. And when it gets particularly inhospitable in the depths of winter, the ptarmigans dig a tunnel in the snow and wait in a kind of alpine igloo for more favourable conditions.

The Slow-Motion Bird

Ptarmigans in Zillertal Like almost no other bird species, the ptarmigan stands for the rugged high mountains of the Zillertal. A research project seeks to find out more about their living habits and distribution in Tyrol by using feathers and droppings, among other things. The movements of the Zillertal ptarmigan population will be systematically monitored and recorded over a period of two years in the High Alps Nature Park Zillertaler Alps.

"If you want to see a ptarmigan, you have to be up like an early bird."

Willi Seifert, Nature Park Zillertal managing director

54

PHOTOS: JAN FRODE HAUGSETH, MAURITIUS IMAGES/MINDEN PICTURES, WILLI SEIFERT

Of the four species of grouse found in Tyrol, the ptarmigan lives on the top floor of the Alps – it aims high. Because it has to. Because if it gets too warm, this bird will become stressed. Its colleagues in the grouse family, namely the wood grouse, black grouse and hazel grouse, prefer to live in lower-lying regions on the other hand. Why does the German name for grouse (Raufußhühner) translate to 'raw foot chickens'? Because their feet are feathered right up to their toes.

When the ptarmigan goes in search of food in spring once it comes out of its winter rest, it calmly explores the surroundings.

However, this is not out of laziness, but caution. Because its enemies are birds of prey from the air as well as foxes and martens on the ground. Moving around in camouflaged feathers in almost slow motion increases its chances of survival considerably.

In Japan and Mongolia, ptarmigans are revered as a symbol of the sacred mountain world. In Zillertal, these fascinating survival artists have not yet been canonised, but they are respected and protected as an invaluable part of the picturesque mountain scenery.

No sooner does spring appear than the feathers of the rock ptarmigan change.

With feathers up to their claws, ptarmigans are real "snowshoe hikers".

Even in flight the ptarmigan is difficult to spot in the winter sky.

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F U N F O R C H I LD R E N

Puzzles & Laughs Get your pens out! Here is the sports program for your grey matter.

In the event of serious trouble, you will find the puzzle solutions on page 89.

Animal Sudoku

1 out of 4

There are 4 possible answers to each question – but only one is correct.

Can you figure out which is right and which is complete nonsense?

A little tip: If you need help, take a good look at the stories in this magazine.

of the What is the name at takes th t en snowboarding ev Zillertal in er nt wi place 4 � every ages can learn where people of all ds and win tricks on their boar medals and prizes in competitions?

56

A: Molly Trolly B: Halli Galli C: Välley Rälley D: Hilly Billy

the call you mistake What could fo igan r? of the ptarm croaks A: With frog

What is the na singing er me of the B: With op a

animal masco snoring t in the Family C: With loud

ng Park on the A ch bells ringi horn?

D: With chur

A: Albert Adle r

B: Rainer Rege nwurm

C: Michi Muh

D: Felizitas Floh

Which national team does ski ace Sabrina Simader compete for in the World Cup?

A: Austria B: Germany C: The Netherlands D: Kenya

ILLUSTRATION: STEFFI WERTH; PHOTOS: GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCK (2)

You have to really think hard here!

Deer, rabbits, cats and pigs should be drawn in each box so that each row and column contains all animals. Can you do that?

Ptarmigan Maze

Brrrr! It's very cold high up in the mountains in winter! Help Susi Ptarmigan get through the maze to quickly find her cave.

Alpine ro s e . S u si loves the taste of their b u ds and leav es. With a little bit of luc k she wil l find some tha t the win d has blown fr ee of sno w.

SUS I N A PTARMIG

AN CAVE ENTR

't ou can rries. Y r.

Bluebe fruit in winte t e n e e find sw oots are gre e h s ar e d h n But t ear a t the y u o h g . throu energy full of

CE

57

T H E B I G A I R S H OW

A HINT OF

Landingbag Hollywood Ramp clear! A stuntman from the US film metropolis once did a test jump during the development of the landingbag. Today in the Zillertal Arena every jump artist can be a small star.

TEXT Wolfgang TEXT Michael Hufnagl M. Gran

58

PHOTO: CHRISTOPH JOHANN

PHOTOS: XXXXX

The facility in Actionpark Kreuzwiese is open to everyone, but the jumpers should have a little practice before venturing over the ramp here.

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T H E B I G A I R S H OW

I

jumps on a "stunt airbag", a fall protection system for special effects. Because Rasinger was not satisfied with the result, he tinkered with the design of his own bag, a kind of giant air mattress for piste run-outs.

Like Landing on Clouds

Martin Rasinger, the snowboarder with a vision: He is considered the inventor of high-tech airbags for soft landings.

Today, the Vienna native is a successful businessman all over the world with his high-tech airbags, and one of his products is now located in the midst of the fantastic mountain scenery in the Actionpark Kreuzwiese in Zillertal.

What was originally only intended for professional riders is now available to anyone who wants to try out for themselves something that they would at best only be able to marvel at on the film screen or television: "This makes the facility

Sun, snow and passion: Friedl Kolar (front, kneeling second from the left) offers free workshops in the Zillertal Arena with his Shred School. And the apprenticing freestylers thank him - with cool jumps and cheerful smiles.

60

PHOTOS: MARTIN RASINGER, FRIEDL KOLAR, BAGJUMP.COM/HOLOGRAM-MEDIA.COM

t all started off from the fact that 15-year-olds can do somersaults in the snow more easily than people who have had ten years more experience. As a snowboard professional, the then 25-year-old Martin Rasinger from Vienna wanted to be able to keep up with these young rubber humans. He trained, tinkered, filed, and soon his tricks became more and more technical – a training device was needed. So he invented his first airbag for practice jumps with his board.

He benefited from the fact that he had lived in California as a teenager and, after twelve years as an international snowboard pro, he was well connected. And it just so happened that at the beginning of his development work, he had a Hollywood stuntman doing test

The spectacular facility in Actionpark Kreuzwiese: A soft landing is guaranteed here for all brave acrobats.

in the Zillertal Arena unique, because its use is included in the ski pass", says Rasinger. Although it is now urgently necessary to take back the flippant term "giant air mattress". Because there is just so much technical know-how, so many years of development and improvement that went into this, that you can't call it that – even if it looks a bit like that, especially from a bird's eye view. But if you know what a landingbag has to be able to do, you can imagine how much work and expertise goes into it.

On the one hand, the material must be strong enough to withstand the sharp edges of skis

and snowboards without being damaged, and on the other hand, it needs to provide both professional and hobby freestylers with a soft landing like on clouds: "For years we've been tinkering with this to find the right mixture between robust and soft", says the former snowboard professional.

Stuntman Feeling

But it paid off, and what was initially only reserved for professionals has now become an action tool for almost anyone, with a maximum fun factor, even for inexperienced beginners who want to experience what it feels like to be a stuntman. A

realistic self-assessment would definitely not be a mistake. Because although the landing is soft, you should think very carefully about which of the three inruns you want to take in order to enjoy your personal flight. "Even though every jump here is cushioned really well: You should already have some basic knowledge", says Rasinger.

Another former snowboard professional in the Zillertal Arena offers assistance in assessing your own abilities, but also in learning the basic rules, through his "Shred School": Gerfried "Friedl" Kolar offers free workshops for interested parties every Tuesday at eleven

61

T H E B I G A I R S H OW

o'clock. "Freestyling with an air bag is quite challenging. This is no bouncy castle", says Kolar with a smile. Even though it looks playful and easy for those who can do it perfectly, it still has its dangers.

They begin even during the approach to this promised bliss, Kolar knows: "You have to be able to ski a straight line, and on a snowboard that's one of the hardest things to do."

But in any case, you don't have to worry about being left alone in the Zillertal Arena, there'll be experts there to advise you. And then you can start out slowly, try out one or two tricks and, even as a nonprofessional, you'll look pretty good in the end: "The main focus here should be on fun, because this is simply a fantastic addition to the already great offer in Zillertal", explains ex-pro Rasinger.

Included in the ski pass The landingbag can be used by all daring skiers who purchase a ski pass. This makes for a very unique facility, abecause elsewhere you would have to dig deep into your pockets to get this kind of enjoyment.

High-tech from Austria The former snowboard professional Martin Rasinger out of Vienna is the "father" of the landingbag.

With his company Bagjump, he develops and manufactures his high-tech airbags entirely in his production facility in Hall in Tyrol.

Close to the Stars

And because the airbag, measuring 31 by 17 metres and perfectly adapted to the slope, also attracts professionals for training purposes, with a little luck you can experience a little celebrity factor and get up close to the stars. You just have to look around to see if one of them is already sailing spectacularly through the air. It could well be that Steve Gruber, who lives in Zillertal and who was a halfpipe world championship finalist in 1999, is out there enjoying a little airtime on the Kreuzwiese. This would be cause for amazement. But also cause for a bit of restraint, so you don't immediately go and try out what you've seen for yourself.

Remember, you're looking to fall on top of a cloud and not from the clouds.

62

17 metres wid

31 metres long

e

Built for Adventure.

Designed for Life.

Better forever.

Learn more about the PYUA story on pyua.de.

Also available in local sports retailers.

Join PYUA

I N S P I R AT I O N S

Of course you will always have a great time skiing across perfectly groomed pistes in the sunshine.

But in Zillertal you can find even more. Whether it‘s on the longest downhills or over the steepest slopes, in gullies or in the mountain air, in a freestyle paradise or in the snow park – get your adrenaline pumping, get a rush! If you‘re looking for action, you‘ll find action.

And in the end you‘ll hear your body shouting: Just don‘t stop! www.zillertal.at/action/en

64

PHOTO: ANDRE SCHÖNHERR

Action!

Harakiri

Canyon of Joy

Mayrhofen-Hippach. Even the toughest person will let out a "Wow!". Black, blacker, harakiri.

The 400-metre stretch on Actionberg Penken has long been a legend. The steepest section of the two kilometre descent through Horbergtal has a 78 per cent incline. We recommend starting with the not so extreme Devil‘s Run first. As a warm-up.

Fügen-Kaltenbach. Where the bold make their mark. To the left a mountain wall, to the right a mountain wall - and in between a 500 metre long gully with deep snow. In the naturally formed canyon at 2,000 metres at the Hochfügen ski hill, 100 vertical metres can be covered in full speed or slope style.

Black Attack

Betterpark

Mayrhofen-Hippach. Attaaack!!! On the vicious number 16 black piste at the Möslbahn in the Penken skiing area, the Skimovie Course attracts all those who dare to test their skills. How good, safe and fast are you really on your skis? As a cool souvenir to take home, you can film your own turns and even get your time recorded.

Fügen-Kaltenbach. Welcome to the snowpark!

Betterpark, with a total length of 320 metres, is located below the exit of the 8-person chairlift Schnee-Express in Hochzillertal and has something for all levels. You can choose between Beginner Line, Medium Line, Pro Line, Jib Line and XL Kicker Line.

Gletscherrunde

Snowpark

Tux-Finkenberg. A special experience. If you didn‘t get through this highlight, you weren‘t even there. The ultimate skiing adventure with over 60 kilometres of downhill pistes offering all levels of difficulty. Anyone who masters the glacier round in the Ski & Glacier World Zillertal 3000 will have more than 15,000 metres of vertical in their legs at the end of the day.

Zell-Gerlos. A definite hotspot in the Zillertal Arena. The park area at the Vorkogellift in Gerlos covers an area of 30,000 m². A fun run with steep turns and integrated obstacles is sure to make all freestylers‘ hearts beat faster.

To provide the right atmosphere, a sound system is located in the relaxing chill area near the park container.

Schwarze Pfanne

Höhenfresser-Tour

Tux-Finkenberg. Where wonder has a name.

Because of its unique scenery, the descent down the Hintertux glacier is one of the most impressive sights for many skiers. With the mighty Olperer at your back, the route runs from the Tuxer Joch right up to the Hintertux village centre. From the highest point all the way to the turnaround, ski adventurers cover 1,750 vertical metres.

Zell-Gerlos. Enjoy one of the longest descents in Austria. From the highest point of the Zillertal Arena – the Übergangsjoch at 2,500 meters – you can cover a total of 1,930 vertical metres and ten kilometres of pistes before reaching the end in the valley. The descent down into the valley in Zell am Ziller truly lives up to its name as the "HöhenfresserTour" – literally the "Height Devouring Tour".

Steep Slopes

The Powder Paradise

An Action Film for Home On the Line

15.000 Vertical Metres

FOTO: BERND RITSCHEL

From the Saddle to the Valley

Ready for Fun-Run

Ten Kilometres Nonstop

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YO U T H S E S S I O N

Tricks and Crowns Snowboard action for all ages: With four stops, the Zillertal Välley Rälleyis going on tour for the 8th time. Applause, medals and great prizes are waiting – plus a coronation.

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competition. Girls and boys, amateurs and experts, who compete in four age groups (under 13, under 16, under 18, and over 18 years old) will be judged. A jury led by professionals from the Aesthetics Crew scrutinises the young athletes closely. With so much skilled attention, it‘s time to dig deep into your bag of tricks to impress the judges and spectators. Medals, prize money and all kinds of non-cash prizes await the winners of the day.

And yeah, we know: The winners of the overall tour will be crowned the Queens and Kings of the VÄLLEY during the last tour stop at the Hintertux Glacier in front of a big gathering.

The Tour Stops Hochzillertal 18th and 19th of December 2021 Zillertal Arena 22nd and 23rd of January 2022 Mayrhofen 26th and 27th of February 2022 Hintertux Glacier 23th and 24th of April 2022 www.zillertal.at/valleyralley/en

PHOTO: GUSTAV HERSMANN

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his event will make the hearts of freestylers beat faster for the eighth time. The name VÄLLEY RÄLLEY has long been considered a call for young action heroes. Over four weekends, Zillertal will be hosting a great snowboard amateur series at four ski hills. The first day is extremely exciting right from the start: For example, freestyle coaching is offered free of charge, where the big and small can learn to jump over obstacles and slide rails.

There are also open competitions, free board tests, the popular LimboRide-Fun-Session – and a prize is awarded for the best trick. Then on the second day comes the popular and demanding slopestyle

Reaching the best mountain experience Ski resorts around the globe place their trust in Doppelmayr. True to our reputation as a reliable partner, we always strive to provide our customers and their guests with the best possible solutions to enhance their winter sports experience on the mountain. The differing needs of passengers provide the trigger for new ideas.

Visionary thinking and many years of experience enable us to constantly increase the quality of Doppelmayr ropeways and perfect the technology behind them. doppelmayr.com

AWAY F R O M T H E S LO P E S

ZILLERTAL

Where the choice has no boundaries GRAPHICS Andreas Posselt

125 Kilometres of trails for classic cross-country skiing and skating

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Operators invite you to take romantic carriage rides.

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Natural and artificial ice rinks with

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curling sheets

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16 Action providers for all those who want to discover Zillertal from above

460 km Over

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of wonderful winter hiking trails

and countless possibilities for snowshoeing

Toboggan runs with a total length of 46 kilometres, 28 kilometres of which are illuminated

9 10 3

Gault&Millau toque-awarded kitchens award-winning Tyrolean inns

1 3 1

Climbing wall Bouldering walls Winter alpine climb

and dozens of icefalls of all levels of difficulty for passionate climbers.

Local museums, that tell the history of Zillertal, and a mineral and rock crystal museum

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10

2

Indoor golf courses

Adventure swimming pools and numerous hotels with spa and wellness facilities

culinary show business, where you can experience the making of products up close

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I N T H E H E A R T O F T H E N AT U R E PA R K

WINTER MAGIC

Ginzling The mountain village, where cross-country skiing, hiking and tobogganing turn into a fabulous outdoor experience.

TEXT Wolfgang M. Gran

W

hen thick snowflakes float silently to the ground and the landscape around the 1,000 metre-high, historic mountaineering village of Ginzling is transformed into a white dream within just a few hours, an unforgettable sight emerges. And when, soon afterwards, the sun comes out and the ice crystals begin to glitter like a sea of diamonds, a single thought emerges that you would have no where else: Winter magic!

Located in the middle of the beautiful and wildly romantic Zillertal Alps Nature Park, a world opens up along the Zemmbach between Mayrhofen and the Schlegeis,

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where you can actually experience nature as it really is. Where, if not here, should the happiness of those in search of activity with an authentic flair be found?

The cross-country track is the stage

A longing that will find its unparalleled fulfilment on cross-country skis. With a total length of 6.7 kilometres, the Ginzling cross-country ski trail – with both a classic and a skating trail – stretches over gentle hills and through snowy forests. The track is the stage, the breathtaking mountain panorama the backdrop. The tour starts at the Nature Park House, and those who have

PHOTO: KATHARINA WEISSHAUPT

The magnificent cross-country ski trail stretches around the wild and romantic mountain climbing village for 6.7 kilometres.

studied a little bit about the history of Dornauberg-Ginzling beforehand will have many an aha moment on their tour.

Like the discovery of the Maxhütte, which was built at the beginning of the 19th century as a hunting lodge. Or the view of the Floitenschlag, a steep slope, where Elisabeth Lackner, as the legendary "Floitenschlagstaude", once became Tyrol's most famous poacher.

At the end of the 19th century, the village developed into a centre for mountaineers, where a Zillertal bedrock, the "Steinklauber Josele", once made history for mountain guides and mineral collectors. The famous

The "Church of the Assumption of Mary" in Ginzling was not built until 1850.

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I N T H E H E A R T O F T H E N AT U R E PA R K

Berliner Hütte at 2,042 metres altitude was also built at that time and is still an indispensable starting point for summit tours in high alpine terrain. Or also for a climbing expedition to the Schönbichler Horn (3,133 metres).

But the magic of the experience in nature can also be experienced in a special way in many other places. Willi Seifert, managing director of the nature park, explains: "In view of the gift of this fantastic environment, we needed an alternative idea for the winter, because we don't have classic ski tourism." And so, in addition to the cross-country ski trail, snowshoeing has also been available for a long time as a way of enjoying the splendour of Zemmtal in contemplative tranquillity. And for those who prefer to go on a guided ski tour … the offer is always there.

But this idyll can also handle a bit of speed.

The toboggan run, leading from Ginzling up to the Tristenbachalm, is enticing with more than three kilometres and adventurous curves. And for the younger and young-at-heart, there is also a snowtubing track at the Floitenlift, which perfectly complements the offer for families.

We all know Eldorado as the legendary land of gold. It is fitting to think of the alluring white of Ginzling as the gold of Zillertal. And to have the feeling at every moment that you will one day tell many stories about this Eldorado – as an active winter magician.

Picture of the idyll. This extraordinary natural experience can be felt alongside the Zemmbach stream.

PHOTOS: JENS DIEHR, KATHARINA WEISSHAUPT

Gentle hills, snowy woods: In Ginzling, athletic nature lovers can experience the magic.

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From Austria with love and herbs.

I N S P I R AT I O N S

You have to follow the rhythm. Guided by the feeling that you are completely at ease and that you are able to experience the everlasting harmony between physical awareness and natural beauty as an escape from everyday life. Designed to be a real spectacle, there are more than 125 kilometres of cross-country ski trails in Zillertal that will tempt you into gliding through the snow. Whether for beginners or experts, even choosing a difficulty level feels like a pleasant challenge: Let the search for tracks begin! www.zillertal.at/ crosscountryskiing

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PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES/ISTOCK

Crosscountry Skiing

Innertal-Funsingau

Luggi Gredler Loipe

Zell-Gerlos. When the Gerlosbach stream beckons, pure enjoyment is guaranteed. Situated at an altitude of 1,300 metres, the perfectly groomed cross-country ski trail leads from the Isskogelbahn lower station alongside the romantic waters towards Innertal amidst an enchanting winter landscape.

Both the classic and the skating trails are ideal for clearing your head.

Tux-Finkenberg. Passion has a name. In this case it is that of the famous biathlete and multiple World Cup winner Ludwig Gredler. The classic (and daily groomed) cross-country ski trail stretches over an impressive 14 kilometres from Tux-Vorderlanersbach to Madseit, the skating trail is located in Juns/ Madseit and features a number of entry points.

Alongside the Water

Schönachtal

In the Glow of the Night

Juns-Madseit-Runde

Picturesque Ambience

Zell-Gerlos. A dreamlike track, that’s all that counts. This is where beginners and experts get their money’s worth. The cross-country ski trail network, with all its marvellous vastness, invites you to recharge your batteries amidst nature.

And those who wish to skate at night are welcome: 1.5 kilometres of the route are illuminated from 5 pm to 10 pm.

Tux-Finkenberg. This cross-country ski trail stretches for 2.5 kilometres alongside the picturesque Tuxbach stream from Juns to the outskirts of Madseit and is an exquisite part of the Luggi-Gredler route. Mountain panoramas and scenic peaks spur leisurely cross-country skiers and endurance athletes onwards. The route leads up to the bottom of the Tux-Finkenberg tourism association and back.

Burgschrofen

Ahrnbachloipe Stumm

Mayrhofen-Hippach. In the district of Burgschrofen in Schwendau, cross-country skiers will find four beautiful routes, all starting at the Burgstallschrofen chapel. The Sprint trail (900 m), the Pleasure trail (1.4 km), the Pro trail (1.6 km) and the Marathon trail (4.3 km) with the course highlight “Camel Hump” are all illuminated until 10 pm.

Fügen-Kaltenbach. It all starts at Hotel-Café Riedl in Stumm. There you will find the starting point for an easy route, perfect for pleasure seekers. This leads to the district of Ahrnbach, where you can cross the Ziller river on skis via a pedestrian bridge.

Many a cross-country skier has been spotted resting here before setting off for Aschau.

Laimach

Höhenloipe Hochfügen

Mayrhofen-Hippach. This medium difficulty crosscountry ski trail is 5 kilometres long. It passes over wide fields in a magnificent winter setting, along the Ziller river, past the beaver lodge. Two guesthouses directly on the route provide the opportunity for stopovers and short refreshments. Below the beaver lodge (outwards from the valley) there is a rest area from the Easy Trail as a reward.

Fügen-Kaltenbach. For cross-country skiers who yearn for a challenge, this high altitude crosscountry ski trail is just right. Starting at the car park near the lift ticket counter, the 9-kilometre route runs towards Gamsstein. The grading is “medium to difficult”, with about 400 vertical metres to be climbed. This trail is suitable for both classic crosscountry skiing and skating.

Four Routes under Floodlights

Where the Beaver Lodge Beckons FOTO: BERND RITSCHEL

In the Tracks of a Champion

The Pleasure Seekers’ Route

A Thirst for Adventure

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B E S T T I M E O N T H E G L AC I E R

SECOND

Home Zillertal

Born in Kenya, raised in Austria, on her way to the top of the world in the snows of Hintertux. The story from Sabrina Simader's heart.

TEXT Wolfgang M. Gran PHOTOS Christoph Johann

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"An African woman on skis.

It really inspires me when I can surprise people."

World Championship athlete Sabrina Simader

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B E S T T I M E O N T H E G L AC I E R

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t's all about freedom. And adrenaline. And that little rascal in your head who loves to see the looks of disbelief and amazement on people‘s faces: "Nobody expects to see an African woman on skis, and that gives me a little bit of inspiration when I can surprise people", says Sabrina Simader, not trying to hide her smile. Sabrina, 22, who was born in Kilifi, Kenya, has long been much more than just half Austrian. When she was three years young, she moved with her mother to St. Johann am Wimberg in the Mühlviertel, and for the last eleven years she has been living in Ennstal.

The Kick at the Starting Gate

But the trio of freedom, adrenaline and little rascal has kept her Kenyan citizenship so far.

Because even in her first Austrian winter, it was already impossible to get Sabrina, who was still called Wanjiku at that time and who was only baptised after arriving in her adopted country, off the pistes – she still gets this powerful feeling of freedom when on skis today. Because she's really into the adrenaline rush that she gets every time she stands at the starting gate. And because the gate to the 2017 World Ski Championships in St. Moritz and the 2018 Olympic Games in Pyeongchang was open to her as a Kenyan. Although she only placed above 30 in the super-G at these two major events – she was there.

But it wasn't just that: Sabrina also made history by being the first female Kenyan to participate in the World Championship and Olympic Games in alpine skiing. And when she competed in giant slalom in Maribor on January 17, 2017, it was historic once again – she was the first female racer from Kenya in a World Championship race.

An Ambitious Goal

Not surprisingly, Sabrina Simader is the only member of her national ski association. The association had already been founded because cross-country skier Philip Boit became the first Kenyan to immortalise himself in the history books at the 1998 Olympic Winter Games. The same year that Sabrina was born.

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She has a winning smile, and for the time being the journey along the pistes is her reward. Nevertheless, Sabrina wants to make it all the way to the top in the World Cup circus.

Training in Zillertal The Hintertux Glacier has developed into one of the most renowned training areas in the international ski circus. Athletes from around sixty nations come here in summer and autumn to prepare for the winter competitions.

Extreme Logistics The motivation to practice on the approximately 30 different training courses is enormous, and requires course manager Jörg Tarmann's logistical

genius. He makes no distinction between stars and newcomers when assigning pistes and times: "Without new blood we wouldn't have a future.

I treat everyone the same."

Lots of Support Since the glacier is in operation 365 days a year, it requires a lot of hard working hands. 120 employees are working during summer and up to 170 during winter to ensure that everything runs smoothly.

"To be able to go mountain running or hiking after training on the glacier, that's really something special in an amazing environment like this one."

Nature lover Sabrina Simader

But being first in the statistics is not enough for the ambitious young lady by any means: "I resist being treated as something exotic, but somehow I just am, and so I've accepted it with a strange mixed feeling," she says. But her objective is something else: "I want to be recognised as a competitive athlete and I'm working towards becoming a world-class ski racer."

For five years now, she's been working away every summer in the year-round Hintertux Glacier ski area: "My training here in the Zillertal has already helped me a lot. Jörg Tarmann, the course manager, always does a great job because he makes sure that I can train with other international teams. It's a good push." And so Zillertal has already become a little piece of home for the Upper Austrian-Styrian Kenyan: "I really love nature, and so to be able to go mountain running or hiking after training on the glacier, that's really something special in an amazing environment like this one", she raves.

With a Dose of Self-confidence

Kenya's first female Olympic competitor training hard on the Hintertux Glacier to reach her ambitious goals.

Now Sabrina intends to increase her World Cup entries. Because the two-time winner of FIS races wants to be among the top 30 in the world there: "I know I can do it."

And as much as that little rascal in her head likes to see the amazement on people's faces: Soon no one will be surprised anymore, because Sabrina intends to make headlines not because of her heritage, but because of her achievements. Then it's all just about freedom. And adrenaline.

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A R T O N T H E M O U N TA I N

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"It burns in my mind and in my soul", says Anton Unai.

And this feeling needs to be reflected on the canvas.

DREAMER AND

Rebel

From Barcelona to Berlin into Zillertal. The painter Anton Unai followed the artistic call that came from the mountains and continues to live his vision of poetry, provocation and a better world here.

TEXT Michael Hufnagl PHOTOS Christoph Johann

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A R T O N T H E M O U N TA I N

"I love the spirituality of the mountains, the fire of nature, the stillness, and even the extremes."

Anton Unai

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haotic," grins the nine-year-old Laia cheekily. The girl is sitting at the lunch table of the Kristallhütte, and while her father, distracted by his Kaiserschmarrn, searches for the right words, she adds her own thoughts. The painter Anton Unai nods. His daughter knows him. His character. His style.

Art experts define the work of the 46-yearold Spaniard roughly so: "He celebrates a visual poetry of playful ease and rebellious provocation." Anton's own description of his painting is that it is "intuitive, free, expressive, always with a message".

It's a gorgeous day. Not a cloud in the sky.

Just the Zillertal. We sit at 2,147 metres and let our eyes wander over the magnificent mountain panorama. Anton is here with his daughters Laia and Elina, 11, skiing is a special passion for the trio. "I love it. And it's never too late to take on new challenges", smiles Anton. It wasn't much different with painting.

Holding Up the Mirror

Born in Barcelona, the young man soon relocated to England, where he studied political science. Later he moved his residence to Berlin and became a journalist. The conceptual design of the magazine "art" gradually led him to the decision to become an artist. "I felt I wanted to hold up a mirror to this world in my own way", he recalls. The influence of politics has never left him. But

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not the kind of politics we encounter in everyday life. "I'm interested in the philosophy behind it", he says. "How people treat others, how we understand cultures, interact with children, that is politics.

Everything we love is political."

Zillertal Family

Anton Unai came to Zillertal thanks to an invitation. Stefan Eder, head of the Kristallhütte, has been following his passion for 13 years: "We offer artists the opportunity to exhibit their work on the mountain and to breathe new life into this special place again and again." And so Anton learned to see his artistic ideas as a gift: "It's like a family here. I immediately felt at home in Zillertal."

Which might also have something to do with the Kaiserschmarrn, which the father and the two daughters have quickly polished off. Elina is waiting for the award ceremony after the ski race, and Anton seems more excited than his kid. Even though, as an artist, he likes to take in the mountain world far away from the slopes. "I love the spirituality up here, the fire of nature, the stillness, and even the extremes."

And this is exactly the philosophical world that you enter into through his pictures. Not thinking, just doing, without a concept, simply following intuition, that is his artistic creed. "It burns in my mind and in my soul", he says. And if he doesn't like the painting, he paints over it. "I am very fast, making

Not thinking, just doing, without a concept, simply following intuition.

That's how his works are created.

"I always want to take a risk on the canvas", says Anton, "not just stick to stencils."

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A R T O N T H E M O U N TA I N

Reflections on the future are the driving force behind many Unai paintings and find powerful expression in them.

between two and three hundred pictures every year. And sometimes it comes out as nonsense, but I always want to take a risk on the canvas, not just stick to stencils."

Believe and Demand

In Berlin, Anton Unai earned his money as a creative advertiser. For a man like him, who had exhibitions in London or Paris, in Vienna or New York, painting is pure devotion. It doesn't matter if a painting sells for 10,000 or Lowercase euros, it should never define the value of his work. Then Anton laughs and says: "I'm not a diva."

He's more of a dreamer. And believes that it is always worthwhile to use everything that fate provides in order to work for a better future. "It's about the world we want to leave behind for our children. And we really need to be demanding about it." Then he clips into his skis. Waves. Skis away. And calls to us: "I have to get to the medal ceremony. To see my kid smile. Nothing is more important than that."

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"It's about the world we want to leave behind for our children."

Anton Unai

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F R O M T H E S TO N E C E LL A R

THE SPICE OF

Life

Enzianhof on Gerlosberg has been producing the finest speck for four generations. With the most important ingredients: Tradition, time and love.

TEXT Wolfgang M. Gran PHOTOS Bernhard Huber

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ut even in a traditional house like this one, some things eventually change. And so Sepp (short for Josef) Kerschdorfer, son of Sepp and grandson of Sepp senior, had his son baptised as Alexander 17 years ago. But this did not prevent the young man from deciding to become a butcher, just like his dad, grandfather and great-grandfather.

Sometimes blood is even thicker than consecrated water, especially if it seems to contain the speck gene. For seventy years, the Kerschdorfers have been processing meat 1,270 metres high on the Gerlosberg in Zell am Ziller – with Alexander now in the fourth generation: "They wanted to teach him anything else", smiles Grandpa Sepp, "but he always worked with me and one day he said: 'I know that l want to learn to be a butcher now, I'm halfway there already."

And this means that there's one thing you don't have to worry about: that this incredible speck,

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known far beyond the borders of the Zillertal, will not be around anymore. Because Alexander studied his profession in the same butcher's shop in Kaltenbach where the three Sepps before him had already completed their apprenticeship. And he watches his grandfather closely, just like his father before him.

Our Own Farm

"It's really interesting how history repeats itself", says the senior Sepp Kerschdorfer. It's not the worst way to learn.

Because even though the Enzianhof of today cannot be compared with the one Sepp Kerschdorfer the First took over almost eighty years ago with only a few cows and pigs, there's one thing on Gerlosberg that hasn't changed: "We have been processing our meat the same way for forty years. That's our trademark, that's the way we think it should be, and we don't intend to change it," says the senior

The peace of the smokehouse.

"Our speck is this good because we give it time to become something proper," says Sepp Kerschdorfer.

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F R O M T H E S TO N E C E LL A R

A lot has changed, only the speck is made as it was before. Sepp Kerschbaumer carefully inspects the juniper, which he uses for cold smoking in the stone cellar for its unmistakable aroma. So that later on, flavourful treats on platters can be guaranteed.

Sepp. Most of the meat still comes from our own farm, the animals are kept and raised how they were meant to be. And during processing, the most valuable ingredient is then introduced in the smokehouse: the time to age.

For eight to ten weeks, the ham is cured in sea salt and carefully selected spices from juniper to caraway, marjoram to coriander.

After the water bath and drying, it is smoked "cold", over little embers, at a room temperature of 20 to 23 degrees. Juniper bushes or "Krabatn", as they are called in the Zillertal, as well as beech wood shavings are used before the ham

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is air-dried for another one or two weeks.

While the processing always remained the same, a lot has changed in this high-altitude paradise. The founder of the family dynasty, who died in 2008, still produced his products as a means of barter and payment.

So the cobbler took a ham with him, and Sepp Kerschdorfer received a pair of new shoes for it, beer from the brewery was exchanged for meat and from the baker flour: "That was so common back then – we had meat, eggs and cheese, and they were paid in kind", says the current

senior partner about the customs at the time when his father started intensive cultivation of the Enzianhof after the war.

Diligence and Vision

Later, the stone cellar, carved from natural stone, was the first small sales room, a sort of forerunner to the farm shops. Throughout the decades, Sepp I tinkered with recipes and refinements for his hams and sausages, and these recipes are still used today: "He would certainly be very proud today if he could still see how this craft is carried on by us in his spirit", says grandson Josef

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Kerschdorfer. Just as proud as the grandson is of his grandfather who, with diligence and the right visions, has steadily expanded the small mountain farm, opened an inn and organised a road to the Enzianhof, which could initially only be reached by gondola or on foot.

Love, Joy and Paula's Grunts

His descendants were able to build on it and develop it: "But it was always important to us that the original charm of the house be preserved during all the renovations and construction work", says Josef Kerschdorfer.

A house that still houses four generations today.

"My 89-year-old mother and my 17-year-old grandson both live there. What we do, we do with love

For eight to ten weeks, the ham is cured in sea salt and carefully selected spices.

and joy, and that's why I'm sure that everything we do up here will definitely continue for another generation or two", says Sepp Kerschdorfer, convinced.

Family life is very important up here – and this even includes the cattle in a special kind of way. The sight of cows, oxen and pot-bellied pigs running around is part of everyday life for the Kerschdorfers and delights the

guests. But one of them stands out from the crowd because of its status: "Our 15-year-old pig Paula is known throughout Zillertal and is almost like a member of the family for us," says Josef Kerschdorfer enthusiastically. Paula grunts and enjoys her tranquil existence here at the Enzianhof, where she also likes to make herself comfortable between the house guests on the sun terrace. A pretty good life.

Three generations and one speck snack: Grandpa Sepp, Josef the son and Alexander the grandson sampling their wares.

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E N J OY M E N T LI K E O N H O LI DAY

Let's get cooking!

Sure, you can eat bacon – or speck, as it's German cousin in known – as a snack and as a hearty main meal –but have you ever tried it as a dessert or as an elegant cocktail? Here are some recipes to marvel at and enjoy.

PHOTOS & RECIPES Kevin Ilse More recipes at: www.zillertal.at/recipes

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APPETISER

Savoury Zillertal speck dip with vegetable sticks 4 servings Preparation time: 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS For the dip: 100 g sliced Bauchspeck 1 small onion 150 g plain cream cheese 100 g yoghurt 1 tbsp. chives, chopped Salt, pepper For the vegetable sticks: 3 sticks of celery 1 cucumber 3 medium carrots

Fry the Bauchspeck in a pan without oil until crispy and let it cool down on a plate, put 2 slices aside for garnishing. Leave the leftover fat in the pan. Peel and finely chop the onion. Then fry the diced onions in the leftover speck fat until they begin to brown, become soft and slightly sweet.

Set aside and let cool.

Crumble the crispy Bauchspeck between your fingers. Mix speck bits, diced onions, cream cheese and yoghurt. Add salt and pepper to taste. Break the set aside speck slices into chunks and garnish the dip with them. Finally, sprinkle the chives over it.

For the vegetable sticks, wash celery sticks, cucumber and carrots and – as desired – peel them. Cut into strips and serve with the dip.

Tip: Tastes good with breadsticks too.

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MAIN DISH

Zillertal Semmelknödel casserole with Schinkenspeck 4 servings Preparation time: 40 minutes plus 25 minutes baking time

INGREDIENTS For the Knödel: 200 ml milk 3 eggs 250 g cubed bread (or dried white bread in cubes) 1 onion 2 tbsp. butter 40 g flour Salt For the casserole: 1 red onion 250 g mushrooms (white or creamed mushrooms) 2 tbsp. canola or sunflower oil 150 ml whipped cream 100 ml milk 2 eggs 1 pinch of nutmeg, freshly grated 100 g Schinkenspeck 150 g Bergkäse, grated 2 tbsp. chives, chopped Salt, pepper

For the Knödel mixture, heat the milk (caution: do not boil!) and whisk together with the eggs and a good pinch of salt. In a bowl, pour the milk and egg mixture over the bread cubes, mix thoroughly and let sit.

Peel and finely dice the onion. Heat the butter in a pan and sauté the onion in it until transparent. Then mix the onion and the flour with the bread cubes in the bowl. Using slightly wet hands, portion the mixture and shape it into Knödel of about 5 cm diameter each.

Cook the Knödel in salted, slightly simmering water for about 10 minutes. Then lift it out of the water with a slotted spoon and put it aside on a plate.

For the casserole, peel and slice the red onion. Clean the mushrooms, cut large ones into halves or quarters. Heat the oil in a frying pan and fry the onion slices until translucent. Add the mushrooms and sauté thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper.

Preheat oven to 200 °C (upper/lower heat). Whisk together the whipped cream, milk, eggs, nutmeg, salt and pepper. Cut the Schinkenspeck into cubes.

Place the Knödel in a casserole dish and spread the sautéed mushrooms and onion slices on top. Sprinkle the Bergkäse over it, pour the cream mixture over it and finally sprinkle the speck cubes over it. Bake the casserole for 25 minutes until golden brown.

Sprinkle with chives before serving.

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DESSERT

Zillertal crispy speck in a chocolate coating

4 servings Preparation time: 30 minutes plus approx. 1 hour cooling time

INGREDIENTS 100 g sliced Bauchspeck 30 g almonds, blanched 200 g dark chocolate couverture

Heat a non-stick frying pan and fry the speck slices until crispy without adding any oil. Let it cool down on a cooling rack or a plate with paper towel.

Chop the almonds. Break the couverture chocolate into small pieces and melt in a water bath. Dip the crispy slices of speck halfway into the couverture one after the other, place them on the cooling rack and sprinkle with almond slivers. Let couverture harden at room temperature.

Tip: The sweet-savoury crispy speck also tastes good sprinkled with coarse sea salt.

A Little Bit of Speck Lore SCHINKENSPECK Belongs to the Zillertal like the snow to the mountains. It is made from the pork leg, salted with spices, cold smoked and dried. It has a similar flavour to prosciutto and has a low fat content.

KARREESPECK Very fine speck from particularly lean muscular meat from the back of the pig.

Sliced wafer-thin, it is a delicious snack for people who like lowfat foods.

BAUCHSPECK This streaky speck always has a rectangular shape and is about 3 to 5 cm high. Ideal for frying, as it becomes nice and crispy. It is the fattiest type of speck and tastes good with salad and tomatoes.

SCHOPFSPECK Comes from the neck area and is the most beautiful marbled speck. It is extremely tender and juicy and is not used for cooking. Ideal for a light meal.

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COCKTAIL

Zillertaler Speck Old Fashioned

Preparation time: 5 minutes (when all parts are premade)

ANDREAS HOTTER The bar manager and hotelier of the Englhof in Zell am Ziller was awarded the "Mixology Bar Award" for the best bar in Austria in 2018. In 2019 he was named "Austria's most innovative mixologist".

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INGREDIENTS for 1 cocktail: 60 ml Bourbon Fat Washing* 7.5 ml honey syrup 20 ml apple reduction Angostura Bitter

PREPARATION

Additionally: Ice cubes Block of ice

For the honey syrup, simmer honey at a ratio of 2:1 with water, orange zest and vanilla until you have a homogeneous liquid.

For the Bourbon Fat Washing: 40 g Schinkenspeck 750 ml bourbon

For the apple reduction, simmer the apple juice and let it reduce by half.

For the honey syrup: 100 g honey 50 ml water Orange zest to taste Vanilla from the pod

For the Bourbon Fat Washing, melt the fat from the Schinkenspeck at low heat for 5 minutes while stirring. Mix the melted fat with the bourbon, let sit for 4 hours and place in the freezer for at least 2 hours. Skim off the solid fat, filter the rest through a cloth and pour into a bottle.

PREPARATION

Stir Bourbon Fat Washing, honey syrup, apple reduction and 2 splashes of Angostura Bitter in a mixing glass over ice cubes and strain onto a block of ice in the pre-cooled tumbler glass.

Garnish with mint.

* Fat washing is the process of adding melted fat, one of the most important flavour carriers of all, to spirits. Since the

For the apple reduction: 500 ml apple juice unfiltered

process is time-consuming, mixologist Andreas Hotter recommends preparing a larger quantity of the bourbon, as well as honey syrup and apple reduction. 12 drinks can be prepared from the quantities given here.

ADDITIONAL PHOTO: HOTEL ENGLHOF

Recipe: Andreas Hotter

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PUZZLESOLUTIONS

IMPRINT My Zillertal in Winter 2021/22 (publication date: July 2021) Editor & responsible for content: Zillertal Tourismus GmbH, Bundesstraße 27d, A-6262 Schlitters; Project management Zillertal: Beate Kassner, Miriam Tirpitz, email: magazin@zillertal.at; Produced by: Red Bull Media House GmbH; Co-publishing: Susanne Degn-Pfleger, Elisabeth Staber; Published in: A-1140 Vienna; Editors: Michael Hufnagl (lead), Gundi Bittermann; Managing editor: Thomas Hammerschmied; Art direction: Dominik Uhl, Steffi Werth; Photo editor: Isabella Russ (lead), Matti Wulfes; Assembly: Veronika Felder; Lithography:

1 out of 4 C, A, A,D

Clemens Ragotzky (lead), Nenad Isailovic, Josef Mühlbacher; Proofreading: Hans Fleissner (lead), Billy Kirnbauer-Walek, Belinda Mautner; Production: Martin Brandhofer, Markus Neubauer; Advertising sales: Johannes Wahrmann-Schär, Ellen Wittmann-Sochor, Alfred Vrej Minassian, Nicole OkasekLang; Translation & proofreading English: Linguarum.de; Printing: Walstead Central Europe, Krakow

Unverwechselbarer TESTA ROSSA caffè Genuss The distinctive enjoyment of TESTA ROSSA caffè

www.testarossa.it

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By train to Zillertal: 100% relaxed

FOTOS: STEFAN VOITL, DEUTSCHE BAHN

Travel without stress. Thanks to numerous offers that guarantee a happy arrival in this holiday paradise. Also ideal for families.

Lightning-fast and safe Have breakfast in the morning in Cologne, Hamburg, Berlin, or Leipzig and already explore the Zillertal mountains with your children in the early evening.

Zillertal is easily accessible by day and night. With fast ICE connections from all over Germany to Munich and a simple transfer by EuroCity to Jenbach. Or with direct ICEs on weekends during the vacation season, e. g. from Berlin, and daily Nightjet connections from e. g. Cologne, Hamburg, or Hannover to Jenbach.

Saving money the right way With a special low Sparpreis or the BahnCard, travelling to Zillertal is quite affordable. Train tickets can be booked up to 6 months in advance.

Everything for the family A train journey means adventure, fun, and plenty of room to move. Whether in the toddler compartment, in the ICE family areas or in the on-board restaurant or bistro with the children’s menu – there is no room for boredom. Many weekend ICE’s even have child care on board.

Travelling through the valley The Zillertalbahn, 4-Seasons train station shuttle and a skibus that runs free of charge for all Superskipass holders - very comfortable, very mobile through Zillertal. www.zillertal.at/train

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M AG I C P E A KS

The Enchanting Crown Prince

T

he view over his homeland in Zillertal gives Leonhard Stock a special feeling of happiness every time he goes hiking. If everything goes smoothly and he feels safe, he likes to take a peak with him, but he doesn't necessarily have to reach it.

Turning back isn't a big deal for him. Because to achieve that absolute elation at the top, everything has to be just right. The 1980 downhill Olympic champion has only been to the third highest mountain in the Zillertal Alps once before, but he still vividly remembers his first face-to-face encounter with the exalted Crown Prince Olperer. As a young boy he stood on the summit together with his siblings Hans, Josef and Maria. Leo's enthusiasm for this striking landmark in the Tuxertal and Valsertal valleys has remained unbroken since he was at least 13 years old.

The imposing ridge of gneiss and granite has impressed him since his training on the Hintertux Glacier. "It's beautiful on all sides.

Even if it's just a panoramic picture on TV." For the people of Finkenberg, the mighty mountain, whose geographical dominance makes it a perfect vantage point, has never lost any of its fascination.

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"Most people often underestimate the Olperer. My admiration goes out to those who are able to reach the edges or even go beyond and successfully reach the summit. Especially if they opt for the more difficult Nordgrat ridge. But regardless of the route, absolute concentration is always needed. The more respect you climb the mountain with, the greater the emotion."

Leonhard Stock is determined to conquer the mighty Olperer a second time.

PHOTOS: TOM KLOCKER, PICTUREDESK.COM/FRANZ NEUMAYR

It is not the highest mountain in the Zillertal Alps.

But it is very distinctive. Its pyramid-like structure makes the 3,476-metre high Olperer a truly fascinating sight and a real challenge for alpinists.

Olperer 3,476 m

Summit elevation in metres

The height of the summit cross is centimetres First ascent byPaul Grohmann, Georg Samer and Grainer Jackl on September 10, Ascent time via the Riepengrat ridge from the Olpererhütte at 2,389 metres in hours

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S H U T T LE S E RV I C E

Your goal is our job!

For 37 years, Oliver T. Dold has been comfortably transporting guests between the airport or train station and their accommodation in the Zillertal with his 60 "Four Seasons Travel" shuttles. This is perfect service on four wheels!

Munich

Ford Transit L3H2, Kombi, 2 Schiebet. (2014) 1:30 L: 5.981 B: 2.059 H: 2.490 R: 3.750

Salzburg

Jenbach Innsbruck

E ZILL

L RTA

Reach your destination confidently and relaxed

Whether you are arriving at the airports in Innsbruck, Munich and Salzburg or at the Jenbach train station – Oliver T. Dold's shuttles will take you easily to your accommodation and back again. For 37 years, his company "Four Seasons Travel" has stood for reliability and above all for safety. That means: 160,000 passengers per year, and all without any accidents!

To make sure things stay that way, all of the drivers are constantly being retrained and the vehicles are regularly subjected to meticulous checks by qualified professionals. Of course, the excellent service is not only to be found during each trip, but a smooth booking process is also guaranteed in advance. That is why the head office in Innsbruck is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Quick and easy booking

Booking your transfer takes only three minutes. A specially designed booking system ensures that everything runs smoothly.

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"Our shuttles provide 24-hour reliability, 365 days a year."

Oliver T. Dold, managing director "Four Seasons Travel"

Contact FOUR SEASONS TRAVEL Burgenlandstraße, A-6020 Innsbruck Phone: +43/512/58 41 57 Email: office@tirol-taxi.at www.tirol-taxi.at

H E LLO , Z I LLE R TA L !

Arrive, learn, get around

By train Excellent connections from all cities in Europe ensure a relaxed journey to Jenbach.

By car Take the A12 Inntalautobahn (vignette!) to the Zillertal exit between Innsbruck and Kufstein. Continue on the B169 to your holiday destination.

Hotel and accommodation Zillertal has the ideal accommodation for every guest. You can easily book it online. We would also be happy to advise you personally. www.zillertal.at/book or tel.: +43/5288/871 87

Contact and helpdesk Our information office is located directly on Zillertalstraße B169, right after the Brettfalltunnel at the mouth of the valley.

Advance information at tel.: +43/5288/871 87 or by email: info@zillertal.at

By plane Innsbruck (50 km), Munich (170 km) and Salzburg (140 km) are destination airports.

All information: www.zillertal.at/ service/en

With the Zillertalbahn Every half hour, the Zillertalbahn from Jenbach to Mayrhofen will take you safely, on time and in comfort to many places.

By bus Excellent bus connections are available everywhere - even directly to the lower stations of the ski hills. The Zillertal Superskipass lets you ski for free.

Please note the terms of use: www.zillertal.at/ skibus/en

Rauchkofl 3252 m

Gr. Löff

Wollbachspitze 3210 m

Reichenspitze 3303 m

Ahornspitze 2976 m Wildgerlosspitze 3278 m Zillerkopf 2995 m Filzenkogel 2227 m

Wildkarspitze 3073 m

Brandberger Kolm 2701 m Gerlosplatte Brandberg Z i l l e r g r u n Gerlossteinwand 2166 m

Wildkogel Arena

Krimml

Gerlosstein

Gerlos Gmünd

Kreuzjoch 2559 m

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Isskogel Königsleitenspitze 2315 m

Wald-Königsleiten

Gerlosberg

Zillertal Arena

Übergangsjoch 2500 m

Hainzenberg

Zell am Ziller

Rosenalm 1744 m

Katzenkopf 2539 m

Rohrberg

Marendalm Gr. Galtenberg 2425 m

Aschau

Bergsta 1800 m

Stummerberg Gamskopf

HINTERTU

Kaltenbach

The Zillertal at a Glance

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Kufstein / Salzburg Uderns

München

Pankrazberg

FÜGEN-KALTENBACH ZELL-GERLOS Innsbruck

MAYRHOFEN-HIPPACH JENBACH

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A12

Fügen

Hart

TUX-FINKENBERG

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Stumm

FÜGEN

SCHWAZ

KALTENBACH

Schlitters Bruck am Ziller

HOCHFÜGEN

Strass

R Brettfalltunnel

ZELL AM ZILLER

Olperer 3476 m

Hochfeiler 3510 m

Gr. Möseler 3478 m

Schwarzenstein 3368 m

Gefrorene Wandspitze 3286 m

fler 3376 m

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Ginzling

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Kl. Kaserer 3093 m

Hintertuxer Gletscher

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Frauenwand

Grüblspitz 2395 m

Hintertux

Grinbergspitzen 2867 m

Tristner 2765 m i

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Scheidegg 2030 m

Eggalm

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Lanersbach T u x e r

Finkenberg

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Penkenjoch 2095 m

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Vorderlanersbach

Mayrhofen Penken

Gschössberg 1800 m

Lattenalm

Voglaue 1490 m

Wanglspitz 2420 m

Horbergkarspitz 2278 m Horbergjoch 2590 m

Rastkogel 2761 m

Rastkogel

Ramsau Schwendau

Gerentberg 1930 m

Pfaffenbühel 2431 m

Hippach Marchkopf 2499 m

Zellberg

Hochfügen

2215 m

Hochzillertal Gilfert 2508 m

Wetterkreuzspitze 2254 m

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Kuhmesser n d r u g g n i n s F i

Kellerjoch 2344 m

Hochfügen Loassattel

Onkeljoch 2050 m

Spieljoch 1920 m Bergstation 1865 m

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Innsbruck

Schwaz

Rotholz Kufstein

www.zillertal.at