Winter Journal Gb 08 09

SNOW ART

WINTER 2008/09

WINTER 2008/09 DEAR READER … Especially in winter, Vorarlberg is pleased to welcome an array of celebrities and other prominent visitors. Film stars, queens, princes, athletes all come for an undisturbed and peaceful holiday. Their Vorarlberg hosts have many years of experience in protecting the privacy of their wellknown guests. Occasionally, film stars also put in an appearance in Vorarlberg for professional reasons. Take Daniel Craig and the James Bond film crew, who came in early 2008 for some shoots on the lakeside stage of the Bregenz Festival and in Feldkirch. Time and again, Vorarlberg’s natural scenery has been the setting for various films. Its grandiose mountains and charming villages make a great impression on screen. One of the first and most legendary ski films, “The White Frenzy” (Der

weisse Rausch), is set against the backdrop of the pristine slopes of the Arlberg back in 1931, when ski lifts and snowcats had not yet been invented. Since then, the Arlberg has been the venue of many films, one well-known recent example being “Bridget Jones, Part II”, starring Renée Zellweger. Many skiers today yearn for scenes that could come out of the “White Frenzy”. Their dream? Untouched slopes and the thrill of etching their own trail. Vorarlberg has ideal conditions for freeriding or off-piste skiing. A number of ski schools hold courses and guided tours. Find out more about winter events in Vorarlberg on the following pages. We look forward to welcoming you as our guests!

Christian Schützinger Director, Vorarlberg State Tourist Board

www.vorarlberg.travel

VORARLBERG “Austria’s most precious gem. Lake Constance or highalpine scenery, Vorarlberg has it. The wide open Rhine estuary or narrow valleys, Vorarlberg has it. Young architecture or vibrant culture – Vorarlberg really has it all. What a blessing for those who live there, and those who come for a holiday.” This is how the renowned travel magazine MERIAN begins its Vorarlberg issue. MERIAN Vorarlberg, February 2007

Balmalpe in Lech looking toward Zürs, Photo: Hans Wiesenhofer/Lech Zürs Tourismus

www.vorarlberg.travel

Arlberg ski area, Photo: Peter Mathis

THE LAND VORARLBERG IS A SMALL AND VIBRANT SPECK OF LAND IN THE WESTERN-MOST CORNER OF AUSTRIA. IT IS SUPREMELY LOCATED BETWEEN LAKE CONSTANCE AND THE MOUNTAINS. In summer, visitors flock to Vorarlberg for its ideal hiking

sorts which offer any convenience you could think of,

conditions, as well for its flourishing cultural scene. In

even heatable chair lifts. And picture-pretty villages,

winter, skiers from all over the world curve down the

where traditional houses, made of stone or timber, blend

slopes of the Vorarlberg mountains and stay in many of

harmoniously with buildings of contemporary design.

its outstanding ski resorts. Winter hikers and cross-

Vorarlberg has long garnered a reputation in Europe for

country skiers explore the glorious natural scenery.

its well-designed, modern architecture, including hotels

What is it that winter season visitors of Vorarlberg love in

and even lift stations.

particular? The modern, pleasantly manageable ski re-

THE PEOPLE WHAT IS VORARLBERG LIKE IN WINTER, WHAT MAKES UP THE CHARM OF THIS REGION? FIVE PERSONALITIES WHO ARE INTIMATELY FAMILIAR WITH VORARLBERG SHARE WITH US THEIR PERSONAL VIEWS AND PREDILECTIONS, TAKING A LOOK BEHIND THE SCENES AND OFFERING SOME RECOMMENDATIONS.

FREEDOM ON SKIS ALEXANDER ROSCHANEK, CAMERA MAN OF ORF AND FREERIDER

IT TAKES 24 HOURS TO MAKE A PERFECT SKI DAY WOLFGANG BECK, VORARLBERG ASSOCIATION OF ROPEWAY OPERATORS

MOUNTAINS OF HEALTH DR. EGON HUMPELER, HEAD OF THE IHS RESEARCH INSTITUTE FOR HOLIDAY AND RECREATIONAL MEDICINE & HEALTH TOURISM

THE STUFF MOVIES ARE MADE OF – LOCATION VORARLBERG LISBETH BISCHOFF, FREELANCE JOURNALIST

THE ULTIMATE FRONTIER FREEDOM ON SKIS

ALEXANDER ROSCHANEK Alexander Roschanek is a technician and camera man for ORF Vorarlberg since 1992, as well as a freelance video and TV producer. He has produced several documentaries. For over 10 years Roschanek, an excellent skier himself, has been capturing spectacular images from the Ski World Cup races.

WE OWE THE MOST SPECTACULAR LIVE IMAGES FROM THE ALPINE SKI WORLD CUP TO ALEXANDER ROSCHANEK. AS CAMERA MAN OF ORF, THE AUSTRIAN BROADCASTING COMPANY, HE IS POSTED ON THE SLOPES WHEN BENJAMIN

parallel, using as little space as possible so that the next skier still finds ideal conditions. Freeriding it is not about cutting the first trails on a virgin slope. The thrill consists of finding your own trail. What I also like is that freeriders usually ski in groups and skiing becomes a team experience.”

REICH, BODE MILLER AND HERMANN MAIER START COMPETING AGAINST ONE ANOTHER. IN HIS PRIVATE LIFE, HE IS A PASSIONATE FREERIDER.

Freeriders enjoy a good image in Vorarlberg. One reason is that they live their passion above the tree line. “In this way, the edges of their skis do not cause damage to young forests, nor do they disturb resting deer.”

“Freeriding is simple to explain: You take the lift up the mountain and swing down off-piste in deep powder or nevé”, Roschanek describes the quintessence of freeriding. “There is this slope in front of you, perhaps two to four hundred metres wide, riding down is an experience beyond compare! Being knee-deep or even further in a dust of powder snow is what really puts you in touch with nature. And, since in Vorarlberg freeriding terrains are all above the tree line, the views are sublime!” the died-in-the wool freerider brims with enthusiasm, hastening to add that you should always go for the “ride to freedom” with caution.

Freeriding is the up-and-coming theme in Vorarlberg’s ski schools. More and more courses and guided tours for beginners and practised skiers are being offered. “Anyone who is able to ski regular pistes reasonably well can give freeriding a go” says Roschanek. “You do not even need special skis. I for my part use my regular onpiste skis. Just never forget: an avalanche beacon, a probe and a shovel are an absolute must for every freerider.”

“Do not take on the adventure without a ski guide” recommends the expert. If you go into open terrain, you need a professional to escort you, somebody who is intimately familiar with the terrain and knows the snow conditions. “Frankly, we have slopes which even I as a practised freerider would not dare to enter because I don’t have an inkling where I will eventually end up. The ski guide has all the routes in his head. With this as a safety cushion, I can focus 100% on the thrill of riding.” One should bear in mind that snow conditions are never the same, which is another reason why a ski guide is so essential. “On north, south or east-facing slopes, you find the best snow at different times of the day. The ski guide knows the ins and outs and will choose the ideal route. In this way, you can ride in perfect conditions all day long.”

Martin G. Wanko

Strikingly, there is more team spirit to freeriding than would appear at first glance. “You do not cruise transversally and cut traces all over the slope. The group rides

But beware, this newly-won off-piste freedom can be addictive! “I never ever want to miss this uplifting feeling of freedom and the close contact with nature again.”

For current information about ski schools, freeriding, deep-snow skiing, alternative winter sports, programmes for children and families, golden oldies, etc. visit www.skischulen.at FIS piste rules and safety tips online: www.winterbahnen.at, Information folder at all cable car stations and ski schools, information boards in the ski areas. Avalanche courses for off-piste touring and skiing are organised by the Alpine Clubs and the Friends of Nature, by outdoor operators and specialised sports outlets. More information at www.bergrettung-vorarlberg.at and www.sicheregemeinden.at; Freeride-Safety-Camps specifically for boarders and freeskiers. Information at www.boardersworld.at and www.skiersworld.at

Hochjoch/Schruns ski area in the Montafon by Mattias Fredriksson/young mountain marketing GmbH

Ascending to Falzerkopf/Bregenzerwald, Photo: Peter Mathis

Several ski regions in Vorarlberg offer ideal conditions for off-piste skiing and freeriding. They have perfect slopes and ski schools that run courses and tours. Lech-Zürs am Arlberg is the freeriding region par excellence. On beautiful slopes you can swing down the runs at Sonnenkopf in the Klostertal valley, in the Alpenregion Bludenz, as well as in the Bregenzerwald ski areas of Warth-Schröcken, Au-Schoppernau and Mellau and in the Kleinwalsertal valley. The largest area for ski touring (experience required) is the Silvretta in the Montafon. Bielerhöhe at 2,000m is a good base for tours in the area.

Photo 1: Powderturn freeskier Karin, Silvretta Nova ski area, Photo: young mountain marketing gmbH, below: Photo 2: Peter Mathis | Photo 3: Karin hiking, Photo: young mountain marketing gmbh

Communion with Nature For all their excitement, winter sports lovers often forget that outdoor activity has a lot to do with protecting nature. This is why ski runs, cross-country and hiking trails are clearly marked and designed in a way that does not harm animals and plants. If you leave signposted routes without an expert guide who is familiar with the local terrain, you

disrupt the natural habitat and put your own safety at risk. “Respect Your Limits” is an initiative launched by the Vorarlberg State government to raise awareness for nature among everyone who practises winter sports. For tips and hints on how to behave properly in nature, check out the special brochure or visit the following website: www.respektiere-deine-grenzen.at

Off-piste skiing in the ski area Diedamskopf/Bregenzerwald, Photo: Peter Mathis

WORKING BEHIND THE SCENES IT TAKES 24 HOURS TO MAKE A PERFECT SKI DAY WOLFGANG BECK Wolfgang Beck, 53 years old, is head of the Professional Association of Ropeway Operators with the Vorarlberg chamber of commerce, representing the interests of 36 ski areas with more than 300 lifts and cable-cars. As university graduate of business management, Beck is also managing director and partner of the Damüls Seilbahnen.

THRILLING TRENDS AND TRAILBLAZING IDEAS, MANY OF WHICH HAVE REVOLUTIONIZED WINTER SPORTS THE WORLD OVER: VORARLBERG CAN LOOK BACK ON A LONG HISTORY AS AN INNOVATIVE WINTER SPORTS DESTINATION. Early on, the overriding motivation was to attract skiers by professional service and smart ideas, from the first ski course for guests on the Arlberg in 1905, to the first power-operated lift at the Bödele 1907, and to Austria’s first drag lift in 1938 in Zürs. The latest attractions are heatable chair lifts and special safety bars for children. In an interview, we asked Wolfgang Beck, head of the Professional Association of Vorarlberg Ropeway Operators, about the challenges which ropeway operators are currently facing.

What makes Vorarlberg one of the leading ski areas in the world? First and foremost, we offer the right mix of high-end ski areas and smaller resorts located in good altitudes. Children and beginners, as well as more athletic and ambitious skiers, can find ideal conditions. Moreover, the distances between the individual areas are short. Vorarlberg has varied and wide-ranging facilities on offer within a limited area. As to technology, our 300 cable-cars and lifts are state-of-the-art. Where do the Vorarlberg ropeway operators see their main tasks? In recent years, we have all invested hefty sums into quality and added comfort. Outdated lifts have been replaced by new ones. Artificial snowmaking facilities are being constantly improved. Talking about added comfort such as heatable seats, we are in partnership with Doppelmayer, one of the leading ropeway manufacturers worldwide, which is based in Vorarlberg. What do ropeway operators offer to their clients in terms of extra convenience ? There is enormous hidden effort behind a perfect day of skiing, which often goes unnoticed. We generally work all night to groom the slopes, often also the winter hiking

paths and tobogganing runs, keep the lifts in good repair and clear the parking sites. And there are many other services: Waiting times at the lifts have been cut to virtually nil, most ski passes are touch-free. Heated ski depots at the lift stations are a matter of course these days, just as much as up-to-date snow reports and pictures and live-cams on the internet. In cooperation with the public transport operators we make arrival by train or bus as easy as possible.

And what is the role of the ropeway operators when it comes to safety? The Vorarlberg “Seal of Slope Quality” is a visible sign that stands for proven slope quality. Awarded on a season-by-season basis, virtually all leading resorts in Vorarlberg boast this seal. Each year, a team of specialists check and evaluate lift and slope safety as well as the quality of information, including signs, in the ski areas. Skiers who are unfamiliar with the local terrain, for instance, should be able to find their bearings without problems, even when visibility is poor. Of course, there are routine tasks to perform every day. As soon as we become aware of potential hazards, we take immediate action. This has prompted the development of child-safe chair lifts. At Doppelmayer’s they have designed a lift allowing low-position embarkment for children and special restraining bars to make sure they cannot fall off the lift. Clearly signposted and perfectly groomed runs are yet another safety feature. All this happens at night, while

Timo Fröhlich by Schöch Christoph QParks, young mountain marketing gmbh

Whether you are an adrenaline-seeker or a more laid-back type, Vorarlberg is just the right place if you are looking for outstanding ski resorts and ultra-convenient facilities. Vorarlberg has developed its ski areas in a measured way. Glaciers are protected by nature conservation regulations which virtually ban the construction of new lifts. Only the merger of existing ski areas might win the approval of the nature conservation authorities. Damüls and Mellau, two villages in the Bregenzerwald, are currently planning such a merger. For current information about lifts: www.winterbahnen.at

Large photo: Valley terminal of Kriegerhornbahn in Lech/Arlberg, Photo: Roman Horner Photo 1: Chill area in the Silvretta Nova ski area, young mountain marketing gmbh Photo 2: Rätikon/Brand ski school, Photo: walser-image.com

during daytime, the slope managers are out and about to ensure problems are fixed immediately. Also, we must be on alert any time should accidents occur. Rescue teams are on call 24 hours a day.

And what do ropeway operators do out of season? Once the winter season has ended, we prepare for summer and make sure that hikers can enjoy nature in a well-kept state. We remove piste signs and litter. Come spring and, unfortunately, the slopes and meadows are not as clean as we would like. Also, in summer all lifts undergo a thorough overhaul. What are the challenges of tomorrow? Looking after the upcoming generation of skiers as best

as we can is something we attach great importance to. Here I am thinking of technical innovations such as height-adjustable embarkment, as well as practical matters such as attentive and helpful lift attendants, free restrooms, self-catering rooms, as well as healthy and low-cost dishes for children in the restaurants. We are currently implementing an on-line system as a new service feature. Via this system, visitors may buy their ticket either over the internet or mobile phone. Our permanent challenge is to deliver impeccable quality and appealing services to our winter-season guests, by whatever means, in order to convince them to return to Vorarlberg another time. Martin G. Wanko

MOMENTS OF BLISS AT THE TOP AT LAST! WHAT NOW? DOWN TO THE VALLEY. EVERYONE ETCHING THEIR TRAIL IN THE VIRGIN SNOW. RHYTHMICALLY, ELEGANTLY, AND WITH CARE. Some love to swing down on perfectly groomed runs, others find the ultimate in happiness off-piste, skiing an untouched slope in the great outdoors, in deep powder or granular firn snow. A thrilling experience which, for one’s own safety and to protect nature, should only be attempted if accompanied by a professional ski guide who

www.vorarlberg.travel

knows the localities. With ski guides who are familiar with the terrain and know how to interpret the language of the snow. Ski schools run an increasing number of courses. To get the best out of off-piste skiing, you should master the technique. Ski schools also offer accompanied tours if you are planning a tour walking uphill with sealskins strapped onto your skis, or if you are a freerider or off-piste skier who uses the lift up to the mountain before venturing into open terrain. Appropriate gear can be rented in many resorts.

Whether on perfectly groomed runs or in deep-powder snow, hardly any other sport holds the fascination of skiing. Perhaps because every day of skiing is different: the weather, the air, the light, the views, the temperature, one’s own fitness. Perhaps because the snow casts a magic spell on the natural mountain scenery. No matter what: Skiing is a sublime experience!

Photo above: Silvretta Nova ski area/Montafon F.l.t.r. Ski touring in the Kleinwalsertal Enjoying a rest on the Arlberg Ski route in the Brandnertal

Large photo: Ski area Arlberg, view into the Klostertal valley, Photo: Peter Mathis Photo above: Paco, young mountain marketing gmbh | Photos below: 1 Alexander Rochau/Kleinwalsertal Tourismus | 2 Darko Todorovic | 3 Tschinder, Brand Tourismus

TRAIL BLAZER MOUNTAINS OF HEALTH EGON HUMPELER is doctor of internal medicine and professor at Innsbruck University. As head of the IHS Research Institute for Holiday and Recreational Medicine & Health Tourism in Bregenz, he has been devoting himself to high-altitude medicine over the past four years. His latest pet project is AMAS, the Austrian Moderate Altitude Study.

“Good morning, Professor Humpeler. Will you join us for a winter hike from the mountain ski lift terminal of Sonnenkopfbahn up to Muttjöchle? I am curious to hear your scientific explanations of how a winter holiday in the mountains affects our health.“ We set out on a picture-perfect white-and-blue winter day, following the signs “Winter hiking trail Muttjöchle, 1.5 hours“. Nicely groomed ski runs around us, skiers etching their trails in a dash of white powder, with steel blue skies and the glittering sun peeking out at us from over the Arlberg. We can hear the clatter of the lift cabins as they notch out of the ropes, unloading skiers. Onto their skis, clicking on the binding, adjusting their sun goggles, a quick glance to the top, and off they go, up on the lifts, then swooshing down on the wax-like snow surface. This is definitely not ours. We take a more sedate pace, warming up as we head for some minutes on almost even terrain to the start of the hiking trail. At some points, we cross the run. Skiers and hikers watch out for each other. The trail starts ascending. It is impeccably groomed, the snow caterpillar has compacted metres of snow into a solid cover. Our winter boots give us the feel of walking on a sandy beach, soft yet firm at the same time, resilient, requiring moderate effort. The trail has some challenging stretches in store for us. Where near-by skiers schuss down seemingly without effort, we trudge strenuously and steeply upward. Our poles not only help us steady our gait but also tone the muscles of our shoulders, upper arms and back. It feels like Nordic walking in winter. Just a quick stop to draw breath. People are wrong if they think that skiing is the only winter sport. “Regular exercise at an intensity that still allows you to have a conversation enhances the positive effect of high altitudes on our health“ explains Professor Humpeler as he looks over to the Rote Wand on the other side of the Klostertal valley. This awe-inspiring massif towers into the skies, surrounded by the greyish, snow-capped peaks of the Lechquellen mountains.

“What is emerging from the most recent AMAS studies is likely to revolutionize modern health research. Evidence suggests that there is a rise in the levels of erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates red blood cell formation, one could say a permitted form of doping. But we also see that the stem cells which accelerate the process of regeneration are activated.“ Mountain altitudes combined with exercise are a source of rejuvenation, whether you are healthy or suffering from the effects of modern civilisation. This applies to both longterm holidays and short breaks, since the effect is longlasting. We are about to prove that even several short stays in the mountains, at reasonably timed intervals, have a positive effect on your health”. We have left the last mountain terminal behind us. Crossing another hollow, we notice the odd creeping spruce standing out from the snow. Gentle undulations, like ripples in the sea, are glittering peacefully in the sun. Sun screen, sunshades and woollen caps all serve us well, as the UV radiation is intensified by the height and the reflection of the snow. The world around us turns peaceful. The buzzing of lifts and hissing of ski edges has come to a stop; marmots enjoy their undisturbed hibernation. We stand as still as the air around us. Not the faintest sound, absolute silence. Is that really possible, in today’s noisy world? Yes it is, I know many such places in Vorarlberg. We catch the sounds of silence. All of a sudden, our body makes itself heard. The throbbing of the pulse in the throat; the pounding of the heart; a slight tingle in the ears; a crackle in the nose. Sounds from the deeper self. Following a mundane need, we blow our noses which have started running in the cold. We take a few sips of tea from the flask, replenish spent energies with an apple and continue our hike. A last ascent, untouched by caterpillars, the way Mother Nature intended. Technology is off-limits here. We have reached the summit. With a cross and a safely guarded summit book which records testimonials of being overwhelmed and many names, and praise for the mountain lift operators for having designed such a perfectly groomed winter hiking trail. Just

Hiking trail Muttjöchle/Klostertal, Photo: Helmut Tiefenthaler

as may other mountain lift operators and resorts look after hundreds of other winter hiking trails in Vorarlberg.

double, because our body had to make a greater effort given the lower oxygen partial pressure.

Around us an awe-inspiring mountainscape: the Flexen, Arlberg, the Verwall group, Silvretta and Rätikon in the far south, putting the dimensions of life in a new perspective. Our thoughts wander off to realms unknown, values take on a new importance. Dwarf-like, perspiring in the sun, shivering in the shade, in these dazzling natural surroundings, we are small, humble, yet content mortals in an endless progression of millions of years during which landscapes have formed and human civilisation has evolved.

It is hard for us to let go and return. As we descend, our sugar levels drop, having burnt a substantive amount of energy. We stop for a last rest on one of the benches provided for visitors of the Klostertal, which are characteristic for their tall back and side walls and seats made of warming insulating material. We put on the clothes which we shed, when ascending, like layers of onions.

The silence fades, we hear a group of mountaineers ascending from Kristberg through the brushwoods. Like us, they are short of breath. Pleased at what they have accomplished, thirsty and hungry like us. We meet, greet, smile, shake hands and congratulate them on their summit conquest. Not really a big thing, just 2075m above sea level. We covered no more than 235m in elevation, but at this altitude this is bound to count

What, Professor Humpeler, was the most valuable experience of this tour? “Everything, actually. Moderate physical exercise at moderate altitudes, tea, fruit and a snack, sunshine, nature, contemplation, silence, encounter, and scenic impressions. We did something good for our body and our soul. Hiking in nature also has a soothing effect on your psyche“. And we did something for our mind, because we realized that exercise in the mountains is healthy. Science proves it! Doris Rinke

As head of the IHS Research Institute for Holiday and Recreational Medicine & Health Tourism in Bregenz, Dr. Egon Humpeler has been devoting himself to high-altitude medicine over the past four years. His latest pet project is AMAS, the Austrian Moderate Altitude Study. Since 2000 he has been exploring in several stages the effect of mountain stays at moderate altitudes on participants suffering from the metabolic syndrome: hypertension, diabetes, overweight, and metabolic disorders. Or on persons who are healthy, but stressed from their work and everyday lives. The findings in a nutshell: the lower oxygen partial pressure at moderate altitudes between 1,000 and 2,000m stimulates bodily functions, notably the metabolic system, the human engine goes into overdrive before returning to normal, and all functional parameters improve. This has been studied and validated by thousands of data in the summer in e.g. Lech am Arlberg. Welltain® programmes, such as those offered in Lech am Arlberg in summer, are the immediate outcome of these research activities. The term “welltain” is made up of “wellbeing in the mountain“ and a brandname for medically tested health holidays in the mountains. www.welltain.at

Photo: Hans Wiesenhofer/Kleinwalsertal Tourismus

“Auf weissen Wegen” is a handy brochure featuring a selection of the most beautiful winter hiking paths in Vorarlberg and available free of charge from the Vorarlberg State Tourist Board. "Vorarlberg – Winterwanderungen” by Helmut Tiefenthaler (published by Tyrolia Verlag) describes 50 routes for handpicked winter hikes. It is available at well-stocked booksellers. Both publications are available in German only.

www.vorarlberg.travel

Outdoor Vorarlberg is an association of professional outdoor specialists from all over Vorarlberg. They offer various programmes, including for winter, such as guided snow-shoe and winter hikes, ski tours, telemark or paragliding courses. www.outdoor-vorarlberg.at

Large photo: Rüfikopf looking to Oberlech, Photo:Hans Wiesenhofer/ Lech Zürs Tourismus Picture 1 Skiing & Horseback riding/Alpenregion Bludenz | 2 Jürgen Strolz/Abenteuerurlaub Strolz | 3 Diedamskopf/walser-image.com

CHILD’S PLAY VORARLBERG’S FAMILY-FRIENDLY HOSTS AND MANY SKI NURSERIES EXTEND A WARM AND HEARTFELT WELCOME TO FAMILIES WITH CHILDREN. Watch them swishing down the slopes! Not long ago and they teetered carefully along the magic carpets before attempting the first turns and venturing onto the slopes. There is clearly an advantage if you learn to ski while young, preferably in a ski school. Specially trained ski instructors are familiar with the latest methods.

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All of the big and many small ski resorts have ski kindergartens and ski schools where your little ones are well looked after and learn to ski in a playful manner all while having fun: on the magic carpet, around colourful fairy-tale figures, in igloos, or in the indoor play worlds. Our tip: Several resorts and regions offer bargain rates for families at certain times.

Photo 1 Peter Mathis | Photos below: 1 + 3 walser-image.com/Alpenregion Bludenz | 2 Diedamskopf/walser-image.com

There are also specialised hotels that provide family-friendly accommodation. The “Vorarlberg Family Club” is a grouping of 22 hotels and of the villages of Au-Schoppernau, Brand, Gargellen, Lech-Zürs, Schruns-Tschagguns together with the Kleinwalsertal valley. They cater to families with children with special facilities, a wide range of practical services to facilitate your stay and arrange customised programmes. For more information about the members and their programmes, ask for the “Family Club” brochure which we will readily send you free of charge. Or visit our website www.vorarlberg.travel under the heading of family holidays.

Rätikon/Brand ski school, Photo: walser-image.com/Alpenregion Bludenz

CELEBRITY HOTSPOT THE STUFF MOVIES ARE MADE OF – LOCATION VORARLBERG

LISBETH BISCHOFF 20 years ago Lisbeth Bischoff moved from Vorarlberg to Vienna to start that much-coveted job as society editor for the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation ORF.

It was at one of the many opera balls which I had to cover for ORF where I asked the oldest opera ball visitor ever for an interview. The 101-year-old lady was sitting in a box in what is the world’s most splendid ball room, the Vienna State Opera. Asked why she was attending the opera ball, she replied: “Look, my child, I want to take beautiful images with me to the world beyond!” I will never forget that luminous sparkle in her eyes ...

formed the alluring ingredient of a major box-office hit. The awe-inspiring and imposing natural scenery of the Arlberg region gave a dazzling performance in the “White Frenzy“ (Der weisse Rausch), a comedy starring Hannes Schneider, ski pioneer who was born on 24 June 1890 in Stuben am Arlberg. The Encyclopaedia of International Film sings the praises of the landscape and skiing footage of the Arlberg.

As society reporter I have virtually travelled the world. Yet for the very best images I do not need to board a train, a car, let alone a plane. I carry the most beautiful pictures inside me, as an imprint that is stored forever. Images from where I was born, Vorarlberg. This memory was refreshed during the shooting of some scenes for the James Bond film in Bregenz and Feldkirch in May 2008. What I would have never thought possible: Her Majesty’s secret agent, personified by Daniel Craig, shares a great love with me, that of Vorarlberg. Daniel Craig: “It is simply great to shoot here. Can you imagine a lovelier place? And finer weather? This beautiful spot offers a marvellous backdrop for our action.” A Bond who shows emotions … Vorarlberg presented itself at its best during the filming of a wild chase for the new Bond adventure “Quantum of Solace“ on the floating stage of Bregenz on the shores of Lake Constance. As soon as Mr. Bond’s new adventure, which is set in the scenery of the opera Tosca, is released (movie start on 6 Nov 2008), the eyes of the world will turn to Vorarlberg. Back in 1931, Vorarlberg’s breathtaking scenery already

At the world’s largest ski race in Lech/Zürs, visitors can discover this landscape hands-on: The White Ring is 22 km long, with some 5,500 metres of elevation to be covered. At the premiere in 2006, 350 contestants from seven nations entered the race on skis, telemark skis, or snowboards. In 2009, this circular ski contest, unique in the Alps, will take place on 17 January. As an extra treat, skiers will be rewarded with the loveliest runs around the Arlberg. It is the aristocracy who have crowned the Arlberg as a ski destination, first and foremost the Dutch royal family. Throughout decades they have appropriated the ski area of Lech am Arlberg as their true realm. Willem Alexander, Johan Friso and Constantin, the grandchildren of Queen Juliana, thoroughly enjoy that spot of paradise on Earth outside the palace walls which their grandmother discovered many years ago – Her Majesty wedelling down the slopes since 1960 in her unmistakable upright Oranje style. Queen Silvia and Carl Gustav of Sweden have been regular visitors of the star-studded ski area on the

All of Vorarlberg caught James Bond fever when Daniel Craig & Co. came to shoot a couple of scenes for their new film on the lakeside stage of the Bregenz Festival in April 2008. The Vorarlberg setting certainly impressed the Swiss-born producer Marc Forster. For what happened exactly, go and see A Quantum of Solace. F.l.t.r: Anatole Taubman, Mathieu Amalric, Olga Kurylenko, Daniel Craig against the backdrop of the opera TOSCA.

Balmalpe in Lech, Photo: Hans Wiesenhofer/Lech Zürs Tourismus

Arlberg ever since their children have been on skis. Princess Caroline of Monaco puts in frequent appearances with her now husband, His Royal Highness Ernst August of Hannover, at her preferred winter destination, emulating the historic example of royalties such as Princess Diana, the Shah of Persia and his wife Farah Diba, King Hussein of Jordan, and many others. Why royal highnesses and other luminaries seek out Vorarlberg as their holiday destination is self-evident, given the fascination of idyllic villages that dot the picturesque natural scenery and instil a sense of authenticity. An unpretentious, distinguished and discrete lifestyle is what the rich and famous seem to appreciate, where nothing is divulged to the outside world and discretion a matter of honour. The family-run hotels and resorts with their sense of togetherness and kinship certainly are an asset. Vorarlberg’s characteristic traits are immensely appealing to visitors. It goes without saying that such an unshakeable love affair would be halfhearted without the pleasures of wining and dining.

“Passing travellers are treated to delicious domestic and wild feathered fare as well as fine fruit and drink, which all grow and are served here. And because of the mountain pass one never lacks information about all goings on in Germany and Italy, so you will find not only a good drop but also edifying talk or conversation”, wrote

Johann Wolfgang von Goethe on 2 June 1788 when staying in Feldkirch. Vorarlberg’s fabulous cuisine was also dear to Earnest Hemingway, who spent the winters of 1925 and 1926 skiing the Montafon for several months. He loved dining rumour has it that he was also not averse to carousing at the “Löwen,” the oldest inn in Tschagguns in the Montafon. But all this is history, it is now the presence that excels with culinary temptations. It must be the unrivalled scenery which inspires its inhabitants to excellence all while preserving their traditional roots. I cannot help feeling that I wrote this account of my home country with a pride-swollen heart and have to admit: I am hopelessly in love with Vorarlberg. Lisbeth Bischoff is the author of the following publications: 1994: “Seitenblicke“ – (A Glance at Celebrities) accompanying ORF’s successful society magazine by the same name, editor: Pammer-Film Productions GesmbH & Co.KG, Vienna 1996: "Der Wiener Opernball – Vom Mythos des Walzertanzes" (The Vienna Opera Ball – The Myth of Waltz-Dancing), Brandstätter-Verlag 2005: “Promis privat“ (Celebrities in private) – Human encounters with 24 world stars, Orac-Verlag 2008: “Das Vorarlberg-Kochbuch“ – (Vorarlberg cooking book) Gourmet recipes and stories from the Arlberg to Lake Constance, Krenn-Verlag

Fotos: Bild 1 Peter Mathis | Bild 2 + 4 walser-image.com/Alpenregion Bludenz | Bild 3 walser-image.com/Diedamskopf

PICTURE PRETTY IT LOOKS SO PRETTY, THE TYPICAL VORARLBERG VILLAGE, WITH A CHURCH IN THE MIDDLE AND FAMILY HOMES AND HOTELS NESTLING AROUND IT. PRIM AND PROPER, AND WELL LOOKED AFTER WITH TYPICAL ALEMANNIC NEATNESS. Winter villages in Vorarlberg simply look pretty because they have remained small in size and the locals have always cared about harmonious architecture. Traditional

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timber houses - many of which beautifully wood-shingled as in the Bregenzerwald – blend perfectly with the astonishing designs of contemporary architecture. This style is not simply a continuation of building traditions, but a skilful combination of ancient regional know-how with innovations picked up from all over the world. In some places the slopes run right to the village, stopping short at the doorstep of your hotel.

Schwarzenberg/Bregenzerwald, Photo: Peter Mathis | Looking to the Kleinwalsertal, Photo: Cassian Gajda/Kleinwalsertal Tourismus

INDULGENCE TURNED INTO ART PAMPERING SERVICE, FINE ACCOMMODATION. VORARLBERG OFFERS A SHEER ENDLESS VARIETY OF PLACES TO STAY, AND A GRACIOUS AND WARM WELCOME. Accommodation ranges from tradition-steeped 5-star hotels on the Arlberg, 4- and 3-star hotels in the towns and villages, to cosy B&Bs, holiday apartments, stylish youth hostels and typical farmsteads. Vorarlberg is not sullied by hotel complexes. Modest in scale, all these

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facilities have a homely touch, and time and again guests praise the excellent value for money they receive. Over recent years a number of hotels in Vorarlberg have invested in new wellness centres. State of the art conference and seminar facilities are also available, many of which have been designed in the modern Vorarlberg style. To find out more about accommodation in Vorarlberg, please consult www.vorarlberg.travel where you can directly book a hotel or other package on line.

Find out more about where to stay in Vorarlberg in the following booklets, all of which are available for free (* Brochures in German only): Klein & Fein – Small & Beautiful; low-cost accommodation, from 3-star hotels to private guesthouses. Feel Well; health and wellness hotel information. Urlaub mit Freunden – Holidays with Friends; youth hostels and accommodation for groups. Urlaub am Bauernhof – Farmhouse Holidays; quality rooms and holiday apartments on farms. Camping – lists all campsites from Lake Constance to the Arlberg. VORARLBERG ROOM INFORMATION Our room information service will look for suitable holiday offers tailored towards your wishes (dates, type of accommodation, facilities…). You may then book the offer of your choice directly with the establishment. Your hotline: +43 (0) 5574 / 42 5 25-0 (Mon-Sat from 8 a.m. -7 p.m.) ACCOMMODATION IN VORARLBERG ON THE INTERNET From 5-star hotels to holiday apartments – you may look for and conveniently book accommodation and packages on-line on our website: www.vorarlberg.travel

Large photo: Sky Spa Hotel Krone in Au, private photo | Photo 1 Hotel Krone/Hittisau, Photo Adolf Bereiter | 2 Adolf Bereiter | 3 Hotel Rickatschwende/Dornbirn

INNS AND RESTAURANTS ON THE INTERNET Vorarlberg’s inns and restaurants and campaigns of “Vorarlberg isst...“: www.vorarlberg-isst.at

Large picture: Fux, chefs in action at the SpoonFull opening event December 2007, Photo: Lech Zürs Tourismus Photo 1 Klaus Andorfer | 2 Lustenau Marketing/Marcel Hagen, Studio 22 | 3 Adolf Bereiter

A GOURMET’S DELIGHT VORARLBERG DINES... EXQUISITELY! “VORARLBERG HAS EVERY REASON TO BE PROUD OF ITS CUISINE, NOT ONLY BECAUSE OF ITS LARGE NUMBER OF OUTSTANDING RESTAURANTS, BUT CHIEFLY BECAUSE THEY USE REGIONAL PRODUCE AS INGREDIENTS FOR THE TYPICAL VORARLBERG SPECIALITIES” EXPLAINS THE HOHENEMS-BORN AND HIGHLY ACCLAIMED CHEF ECKART WITZIGMANN. Eckart Witzigmann spent his youth in Salzburg, but visited Vorarlberg on numerous occasions. He still has fond memories of his aunt Fanny’s Kässpätzle, (the legendary cheese dumplings that have become Vorarlberg’s culinary signature), and of the divine smell of the freshly-baked bread he would deliver. For Witzigmann, family spirit is characteristic of people in Vorarlberg: “In Vorarlberg, the family has always been very important. This is something I started to cherish when I was a small boy. Even today, many businesses are family run, and the reason why Vorarlberg’s cuisine has garnered a reputation for top-notch quality.” Austria’s western-most province is truly a destination for gourmets and connoisseurs. And still a well-kept secret,” says award-winning Eckart Witzigmann with conviction. Vorarlberg’s first gourmet guide will change this. For more than six months, some 500 handpicked test persons swarmed out to the local gastronomy scene and tested about 300 inns and restaurants. This special jury differed intentionally from the usual food critics. They all were of different ages and came from different professional backgrounds. In the guise of ordinary

First Vorarlberg Gourmet and Adventure Guide (in German only)

customers they performed their tests, rating in particular criteria such as quality, friendliness of staff, value for money, as well as overall impression. The gourmet guide was presented in early 2008 at a gala night and lists Vorarlberg’s 122 best establishments in four categories: restaurant, traditional inn, ethnic food, and café. The event was attended by the legendary 20th century chef Eckart Witzigmann, who also agreed to author the preface to the gourmet guide. “It is not only the quality of the food that matters, but the overall experience which guests remember. The guide therefore rates culinary as well as emotional aspects,” explains Andrew Nussbaumer, head of the gastronomy section at the Vorarlberg Chamber of Commerce. Here is where he sees a great opportunity for the local gastronomy industry: “Restaurants and inns can respond to customer recommendations and improve, and at they same time they are showcased in the public limelight!“ boehler-pr kommunikationsberatung

THE PRIZEWINNERS BY CATEGORY

Eckart Witzigmann is one of the most acclaimed chefs in the world and was trained by leading French chefs. As the first chef outside of France, Witzigmann was awarded 3 Michelin stars for his Aubergine restaurant in Munich in 1979. He is the editor of several cook books and of the Apérol gourmet magazine.

“Traditional inns“ Freihof Sulz Fritsch am Pfänder, Lochau Nazes Hus, Mellau “Restaurants“ Krone, Hittisau La Fenice, Lech Mangold, Lochau “Ethnic“ Chen’s, Bregenz “Café“ Steinhauser, Dornbirn

“VORARLBERG ISST …“ The Vorarlberg gourmet guide is just one in a flurry of activities and ideas by which the special-interest grouping “Vorarlberg isst …” promotes the region of Vorarlberg as a destination for foodies and connoisseurs. With high-key initiatives, “Vorarlberg isst...” moreover attempts to raise awareness for modern gastronomy that aspires to exacting culinary standards and organises regular cooking workshops, at which leading chefs prepare regional products in an innovative and creative way. “Mahlzeit Kinder,” a second Vorarlberg isst… guide, will be released in the summer of 2009, and caters to families eating out. The first Vorarlberg gourmet guide has an initial circulation of 10,000 copies and is available at local tourist offices, the Raiffeisen banks, select booksellers, and from www.vorarlberg-isst.at.

VIBRANT CULTURE ADVENT MARKETS FULL OF ATMOSPHERE, THEATRES, CONCERTS AND EXHIBITIONS HOLD OUT THE PROMISE OF ENTERTAINMENT AND DIVERSION. Fortunately, Vorarlberg’s cultural scene does not hibernate in winter. Museums such as the modern art Kunsthaus Bregenz, the Vorarlberg State Museum in

Bregenz, the interactive nature museum “inatura“ in Dornbirn, or the Jewish Museum in Hohenems will be putting on exhibitions. In the towns of the Rhine valley and in a number of mountain villages advent markets cast a magic spell. Once during the winter, even the Bregenz Festival puts in a guest performance at an openair event in Lech. The Schubertiade festival will stage several concerts at its original venue in Hohenems.

Event Highlights Concert series/Cultural events Vorarlberg Symphony Orchestra – Bregenz: 28.11, 10.1, 19.3, 13.4, Feldkirch: 30.11, 11.1, 22.3, 14.4, Musical 8/10/17/22.2 www.symphonieorchester-vorarlberg.at Bregenz Master Concerts: 20.11 Swedish Chamber Orchestra, 23.1 Vienna Symphony Orchestra, 25.3 Kremerata Baltica, 16.4 Academy of Old Music Berlin, 10.5 Beijing Symphony Orchestra www.bregenzermeisterkonzerte.at Schubertiade Festival Hohenems: e.g. 19.11 Piano recital starring Martin Helmchen (180th anniversary of the death of Franz Schubert) www.schubertiade.at Concerts/Cultural events 26.–30.11 Bludenz: Bludenz Days of Contemporary Music 6, 13, 20.12 Feldkirch: Feldkirch Advent Singing 4.12 Bregenz: “The Magic of Christmas“ featuring Semino Rossi, the Klostertaler, the Ursprung Buam, the Edlseer etc. 11.12 Bregenz: Ensemble Plus, chamber music 19.12 Götzis: Baroque orchestra Concerto Stella Matutina 20.12 Bregenz: The Original USA Gospel Singers & Band 9.1 Bregenz: Night of Dance (Broadway Dance Company & Dublin Dance Factory) 10.1 Bregenz: Swan Lake (Russian State Ballet) 24.1 Bregenz: Night of Musical (musical gala)

6 + 8.2 Lech: Bregenz Festival in the Snow 6.–8.3 Bludenz: Bludenz Jazz Days 12.3 Bregenz: The Best of Musical 17 + 19.4 Lech Zürs: Jazz in Lech and Zürs 27.4 Bregenz: Moulin Rouge, musical world premiere Exhibitions Until 28.12.2008 Bregenz, Palais Thurn & Taxis: Carl Emanuel Wolff (www.kuenstlerhaus-bregenz.at) 5.12.2008 to 8.2.2009 Bregenz, Magazin4: Heike Kati Barath, kommst du (www.magazin4.at) Until 11.1.2009 Bregenz, KUB Kunsthaus: Jan Fabre, Metamorphoses of the Self – From Dusk till Dawn (www.kunsthaus-bregenz.at) Until 6.1.2009 Bregenz, Vorarlberg State Museum: Der “Kanton Übrig“ (www.vlm.at) Miscellaneous Advent and Christmas markets e.g. in Bludenz (27.11–24.12 + 20/21.12) Bregenz (21.11–24.12 + 6-8, 12-14 + 19–21.12) Dornbirn (28.11–23.12), Feldkirch (21/22.11 + 28.11–24.12) Lech (6, 14 + 21.12) Schwarzenberg (27.11–21.12) with themed programmes (readings, lectures etc.) 1.1.2009 Lech Zürs + St. Gallenkirch: Fireworks of Sound 9.–18.4. Lech Zürs: “Wine & Firn“ – winter wine weeks For all current dates see www.vorarlberg.travel

Come the end of Carnival and the people in Vorarlberg set towering bonfires aflame, bidding farewell to the boisterous carnival spirits and to winter. In accordance with local custom, these ritual burnings of the winter witch in effigy take place virtually all over Vorarlberg on the weekend following the last Sunday of Carnival, accompanied by warming dishes, drinks and music.

“Funkenabbrennen” is an old Alemannic custom practised only in the Lake Constance area. Photo: walser-image.com

Dates in 2009: 28.2/1.3

F.l.t.r. . Bregenz Festival goes to the snow in Lech am Arlberg Kunsthaus Bregenz Excitement and fun at the casino

Christmas market in Feldkirch, Photo: Feldkirch Tourismus Photos: 1 Stella Brass, Photo: Bregenzer Festspiele | 2 Jean-Marc Bustamante, gilles conan, Photo: MarkusTretter | 3 Casinos Austria

WOULD YOU LIKE MORE INFORMATION ON VORARLBERG? THE INFORMATION BOOKLET CONTAINS NUTS-AND-BOLTS INFORMATION ABOUT WINTER HOLIDAYS IN VORARLBERG, COMPLETE WITH TRAVEL HINTS, SUGGESTED EVENTS, INFORMATION ON THE SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT PROGRAMMES, HOLIDAYS WITH CHILDREN, AND A TABLE WITH INFORMATION ON THE DIFFERENT RESORTS. USE THE SERVICE CARD TO ORDER ACCOMMODATION FOLDERS, INFORMATION ON SPECIAL-INTEREST THEMES OR BROCHURES OF THE HOLIDAY REGIONS WITH DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT ACCOMMODATION AND MORE. WE WILL SEND YOU THE INFORMATION IMMEDIATELY AND FREE OF CHARGE. For information please contact Vorarlberg Tourismus, P.O. box 302, 6901 Bregenz, Austria phone +43 (0)5574/42525-0 (Mon-Sat 8-19 h), fax 42525-5, [email protected], information and online booking: www.vorarlberg.travel the destinations, your travel agent and the holiday service of your nearest Austrian National Tourist Office (www.austria.info)

A SPECIAL HINT FOR THE SUMMER 2009: ANTONY GORMLEY HORIZON FIELD 2009-2010 In the summer of 2009 Kunsthaus Bregenz will be dedicating an individual exhibition to the British sculptor Antony Gormley in parallel with a major landscape project in Vorarlberg. Gormley (*1950 in London/GB) is one of the leading contemporary sculptors. His oeuvre has always focused on the human body which he presents in always new sculptural constellations as individual figures or in large groups. He has staged comprehensive exhibitions all over the world, including several projects in archetypical natural landscapes. Gormley’s “Horizont Field“ represents a horizontal field of 100 iron casts of a human body, placed over an area of 100 km2 in the Vorarlberg mountains above the treeline. The underlying idea is the link between seeing and being seen and the central role of mankind in how it interacts with the Alpine landscape. www.kunsthaus-bregenz.at

Human body placed in the landscape (simulation)

PUBLISHER’S STATEMENT Publisher: Vorarlberg Tourismus (Vorarlberg State Tourist Board), 6901 Bregenz, Austria. Concept: Redball Marketing Communications I GmbH Editor/text: Martin G. Wanko, Graz/Bregenz, Kinz Kommunikation, Vienna, Lisbeth Bischoff, Vienna, boehler-pr kommunikationsberatung, Dornbirn. Translation: Michaela Ott-Spracklin Map: © Freytag-Berndt and Artaria, 1230 Vienna, map of Vorarlberg 1:200.000. All information is based material provided to us. No liability can be accepted for the correctness or completeness of the information given. Print: Vorarlberger Verlagsanstalt GmbH, Dornbirn. Printed in Austria. Data as of July 2008