FerienNewspaper for Regular Guests to the Tux- Region Septemberblick 2017 | Nr. 22 Winter Edition

Tourist Board The Great Winter Love Information Endless year-round skiing bliss in the holiday homeland of Tux-Finkenberg.

hen the Hintertux km of cross-country ski trails, glacier glistens over and one natural ice skating and W ’s most beautiful curling rink. Three floodlit na- Tux valley, it can only be descri- tural toboggan runs with rustic The entire Tux-Finkenberg Tou- bed as pure winter bliss. The retreats bring an extra social rist Board team are always on ideal altitude range of 850 to dimension to your holiday. The hand to provide helpful advice 3,250m guarantees 100% snow vibrancy of the fresh, pure air and assistance to valley visitors. from October to May! The Tux can be felt on a glorious snowy From looking for accommoda- valley allows each and everyone walk through one of the many tion to holiday planning or lei- to experience just the kind of cleared winter hiking paths of sure activities, the whole team winter they want. this winter wonderland – that at the Tux-Finkenberg Tourist too is part of winter Wellness in Board Information Offices are SNOW-SURE. Ski & Glacier Tux-Finkenberg. more than happy to help. World Zillertal 3000 is without doubt a ski region of superla- Experience pure skiing bliss at the foot of the Olperer at the Hintertux ATTENTION ALL CHILD- Infobüro Tux-Center tives. With just one ski-pass Glacier – ’s one and only year-round ski region. REN! Winter is the perfect Lanersbach 401, 6293 Tux you can explore 5 ski resorts, time for a family holiday in 196 km of pistes serviced by ding fun every year – placing 3000 m peaks – simply breath- the Tux valley. The skiing les- Infobüro Finkenberg 65 state-of-the-art lifts. Found Hintertux glacier as one of THE taking. sons take age and ability into Dorf 140, 6292 Finkenberg right in the heart of the Hin- best glacial ski resorts. Roun- account, so that the little ones, tertux glacier, Austria’s only ded off with stunning views SNOW PARADISE. The Tux with the appropriate equip- Tel.: +43 (0)5287/8506 year-round skiing area with 365 from the panorama terrace at Valley has plenty to offer away ment, get the hang of things Fax: +43 (0)5287/8508 days of skiing and snowboar- 3,250 m of the surrounding from the regular slopes, with 28 super-fast. ❚ [email protected] | www.tux.at

Skiing, Welcome to Tux-Finkenberg chilling-out and Contents party animals Looking forward very highest standards. We are So that is how you build delighted to introduce the start 2 a teddy bear. As well as skiing, Tux Finken- of a new era for Finkenberg – berg is also a place to relax, to winter! the new Almbahn lift will whisk New: 10er Finkenberg I chill and soak up the sun. Sa- you up to the middle station. 3 vour the day on a terrace lou- Dear Guests of the Tux Valley! The state-of-the-art lift provides nger at any one of the 30 ski After a glorious mountain sum- maximum comfort and shor- Stephanie Brunner: huts and restaurants that gra- mer, Tux-Finkenberg is once ter journey times. Skiers and 4 "Always push the limit!" ce the Zillertal 3000 Ski and again primed for an exciting snowboarders alike can access Glacier World region! winter. We invite you to spend the slopes speedily to max out Skis: Buy or rent? And after the thrills of the your most precious time of year their snow enjoyment. Our 5 slopes, it’s après-ski time with with us. Our dedicated hosts littlest guests can look forward hot party venues celebrating of the holiday homeland in to “Pepis Kinderland” located at 100 volunteers help at into the night. The Tux-center Tux-Finkenberg have worked the mountain station Almbahn 6 the Telemark World Cup also provides a wide-ranging tirelessly on high-end impro- Finkenberg. A great many at- Chairman Markus Tipotsch, Msc, events programme. The vements and new features to tractions await the little ones Tux-Finkenberg Tourist Board “Rach’n” (smoking) - is “Nightliner” ferries all party make your holiday here in the here, where “Pepi” is ready and 7 an ancient tradition owls safe and sound between Tux valley ever more comforta- waiting to greet you. Yours sincerely Hintertux and Finkenberg ble and relaxing. There is also We are looking forward very Overview of Events through the night. an extensive sports and enter- much to welcoming you back to 8 and Guest Tributes tainment programme of the Tux-Finkenberg. ❚ 2 Ferien blick September 2017 | Nr. 22

Family Specialists

The Tux family specialists Pepi consists of almost 1,000 individual parts. These were put together in the workshop first, before being assembled at Penkenjoch. are particularly adept at As the main attraction at Pepi’s Kinderland, all children adore this wonderful wooden teddy. fulfilling the needs of fami- lies with children. These hotels offer the luxury of little skiers being collected in the free children’s taxi So that is how you build a teddy bear service. At one of the 5 ski schools skiing instructors of- fer skiing and snowboarding He is eight metres tall, rotund, has a friendly face and you can climb on him. lessons in several languages. With skiing lessons in age The teddy we are talking about is “Pepi”, the new landmark at Penkenjoch. and ability related classes, using appropriate learning aids such as children’s carou- omething very special workshop. “We were delighted Penkenjoch. After all, the tim- FABULOUS INNER-WOR- sels, even young skiers will came into being in Jo- to be involved in building so- ber bear weighs ten tons! KINGS. The big wooden teddy have mastered the basics in S hannes Erler’s workshop mething so magnificent”,Johannes and his staff had, of now sits comfortably in Pepi’s no time at all. last summer - a teddy bear. Jo- remembers Johannes. Although course, already given this con- Kinderland at Penkenjoch, wel- hannes, however, didn’t make everyone knew what Pepi was siderable thought and built coming visitors of ages from this one using a needle and supposed to look like, some Pepi in such a manner that afar with a friendly wave. Winter thread. As a master carpenter, he details were really rather tri- they could dismantle him You can’t see Pepi’s best cha- prefers to use a saw and plane. He cky. So a few experiments were again. He was disassembled racteristic, however, from the Wellness wasn’t given the task of building made. Pepi consists of almost into 24 modules and trans- outside. Only those who walk any old teddy bear, but “Pepi”; 1,000 individual parts - and not ported up the mountain in through one of his gigantic who is a very special bear. Accor- one of them is the same. The five trucks. The work, however, feet to enter his interesting ding to legend, the Tux Giant lost pieces were designed by com- was by no means over. It took inner-workings will discover him on the Penkenjoch Peak. And puter and made individually. another two weeks until Pepi what this secret is, namely, a since last summer, that is where Everything was then assembled was fully assembled. Much love little climbing paradise! Child- he can be found again. Eight me- in the workshop, equipped with and care was put into comple- ren can let off steam to their tres tall, brightly painted and various connections, sealed ting Pepi, right down to the heart’s content over three le- with a big smile on his face. with a film and clad with larch smallest detail. Sculptors cre- vels, which include a tunnel, shingles. After all that, just one ated his endearing face from playhouse, distorting mirror, 1,000 PIECES. Johannes and problem remained: How to get a huge piece of larch wood. climbing wall and slide. It is no his colleagues worked for four Pepi from the workshop in the Pepi’s nose alone weights an wonder that Pepi is so popular whole weeks on Pepi in their valley to the 2,100 metre high incredible 250 kg. with children. ❚

Escape from the hustle and bustle, find your inner peace with moments of reflection immersed in nature – here Winter in Pepi’s Kinderland in the holiday homeland of Tux-Finkenberg. A walk The extensive children's and adventure park at Penkenjoch offers many attractions through the virgin, deep snowy winter landscape of the Tux valley is so much enkenjoch can be conve- at Skischule Sunny enjoy the more than just trudging P niently accessed using the amenities at Pepi’s Kinderclub through the snow – it is Finkenberger Almbahnen gon- in the new Granatalm. winter wellness at its very dola lifts. Children enjoy fun and games best. Re-charge your bat- Children’s dreams come true at Penkenjoch, whilst benefit- teries on any of the winter at Pepi’s Kinderland. Learning ting from professional and su- hiking trails, all 68 km of to ski and all kinds of fun, even pervised childcare. And if the them cleared and marked off the slopes, is now guaran- weather is not good enough around Tux and Finkenberg. teed. All kids and beginners for skiing, Kinder-Club offers Enjoy the tranquillity of na- can make their first playful at- countless highlights, such as ture with only the sound of tempts on skis at the new Pepi’s a climbing wall, hockey table, crunching snow underfoot - Kinderland at Penkenjoch. Soft Lego, TV room (cinema), easing body, mind and soul, Young winter fans can learn ba- play area with tower and slide, step by step. sic skiing techniques on ideal table soccer and a farmyard beginner’s terrain. All children puzzle game. ❚ September 2017 | Nr. 22 Ferien blick 3 New: 10er Finkenberg I The new feeder lift from Finkenberg to the middle station is fast, extremely comfortable and has a conveyance capacity of up to 2,400 persons per hour. Bear Route he new first section of THE TERMINALS. The valley It only takes 8 minutes from the Finkenberger Alm- and mountain terminals have Tux-Lanersbach to reach the T bahnen will go into ope- also been replaced. A modern mountain station Eggalm- ration at the beginning of the and innovative valley termi- bahnen. Here guests will find winter season, on 2nd December nal building that connects 21 km of ski and valley runs. 2017. Originally built in 1987, seamlessly with the existing Fun for all the family can be the former 4-seater cable car is car park has been constructed found on the Bear route from being replaced by a state of the in the heart of Finkenberg, at Eggalm to Tux-Lanersbach – a art shuttle lift service. The new 875 metres above sea level. The great experience for all ages. 10-seater Finkenberg I gondola newly adapted cash desk area lift is simply the best when it co- allows all guests to start their mes to comfort. The latest gene- ski or hiking day in comfort. ration from the world’s market The power drive and garage for leaders in cable car construc- the cabins are accommodated tion, Doppelmayr, is setting new in the newly erected mountain cableway standards in the Ziller- terminal at 1,760 metres above tal Valley with this new 10-seater The new 10-person Finkenberg 1 gondola lifts whisk skiers from sea level. Both buildings have gondola lift. Finkenberg to the middle station at 1,760 meters above sea level also been equipped with a first- in only seven minutes. aid room. ❚ COMFORTABLE. Passengers will be whisked up and over al- ascent towards the sun-dren- transport all skiers. Wheelchair most 900 m in elevation gain ched Penkenjoch. All cabins can friendly entry to the gondola Betterpark from the valley to the moun- comfortably accommodate 10 enables not only quick and ef- Technical Data Betterpark Hintertux is one tain terminal in only 7 minutes. persons, with heated seats and fortless access to wheelchair Conveyance capacity: of the highest freestyle- The conveyance capacity will entertainment is “de rigueur”. users, but also families with 2,400 persons per hour spots in Austria and is consi- more than double that of the The entire cable car route is pushchairs. The entire new Speed: 6 m per second dered by many to be the best old cable car, with the potential equipped with Wi-Fi, so you can Doppelmayr system is based on Travel time: 7 minutes Snowpark in the Alps. The to transport 2,400 persons per share unforgettable views of the future-orientated cableway tech- Length: 1,780 m entrance to the park is at hour Queuing in line will the- Zillertal mountains immediate- nology, the so-called D-Line. The Number of cabins: 56 3,200 metres above sea-level refore be banished to the past. ly as you “surf” up to the peaks. D-Line offers first class facilities, Amenities: Heated seats, Wi-Fi at the foot of the majestic Ol- With a maximum speed of 6 m In order to control passenger with the highest level of pas- Base terminal altitude: 875 m perer Mountain. The Better- per second, 56 spacious cabins flow more effectively and facili- senger comfort, low-noise ope- Mountain terminal altitude: 1,760 m park Hintertux is open from Cable diameter: 54 mm will travel over 13 new support tate faster and easier access to rations, simple and timesaving April to end of May and from Start of construction: 24th April 2017 towers along a 1,780 m incline the cable car, the gondolas will maintenance and much more. mid-September to Decem- ber. In autumn, it is the first Snowpark in Austria to open.

Mathias Dengg reports on the preparations and construction of the 10er Finkenberg I

The Finkenberger Almbahn I cable car was in operation from 1987 to 20107. Demolition work on the old cable car began on 24th April 2017. The new terminal buildings were constructed in the summer months, during which time the support towers were also mounted. For Matthias Dengg from Finkenberger way planning presents a major challenge rage rooms, garages for the gondolas ment of Nature Conservation. If both Funslope Almbahnen, construction of a new cable every time anew. The cableway system and much more. "Everything has to be negotiations are concluded positively, car is always a challenge. “Every project dimensions were adapted to the pre- coordinated so that guests can reach the construction of the plant can begin. The new Funslope in Som- is different. Construction o f the " Lärm- vailing conditions in Finkenberg. Exact gondolas quickly and comfortably, and "As the valley terminal is located in the merbergalm at 2,100 m al- stange 2” 6-seater chairlift on the glacier calculations are made, for example, for that technical maintenance can be car- middle of the village, it should match the titude is a real hit with the at an altitude of 3,000 meters cannot the foundations, the positions of the sup- ried out efficiently and safely,” explains character of the surrounding area." In kee- whole family. A gigantic be compared with the construction of a port towers, the cable position and cable the cable car specialist. Construction of ping with the special ambience of the Tux snow feature in the shape of gondola lift in the middle of Finkenberg”. thickness. This includes, among other the new 10-seater gondola lifts has in- Valley, we chose a facade of wooden shin- a horizontal figure of eight Planning and preparatory work for the things, the conveyance capacity, number volved 35 companies, all of whom are gles and glass”, says Matthias Dengg. boasting numerous snow new Finkenberg 1 took two years. Matthi- of cabins, length of the cableway and the very experienced in building cableways. Before the new cableway goes into ope- waves with exciting elements as Dengg explains the procedure: First steepness of the terrain. The buildings of This step takes between 1 and 1.5 ye- ration, the competent authorities must provides heaps of fun and you start with planning the system, which the mountain and valley terminals must ars. Details for the new construction are carry out intensive tests and checks. "We entertainment on the slo- means type of system, what conditions be designed in such a way that they can then submitted to the Federal Ministry are well-prepared and, if everything con- pes. Whether young in years prevail along its route, terminal size, accommodate all technological equip- of Transport, Innovation and Technolo- tinues to go to plan, the new 10-person or young at heart everyone clarification with affected landowners, ment and the necessary infrastructure. gy in Vienna. At the same time, appro- Finkenberg 1 will go into operation on wants to leave their mark! inspections with various experts and re- Uninhibited access is required to the val is sought from the Tyrolean State schedule on 2nd December 2017," says An interactive sound module presentatives from the authorities. Cable- gondolas, cash desk areas, offices, sto- Government's Office and their Depart- Matthias Dengg. is another special highlight. 4 Ferien blick September 2017 | Nr. 22 Stephanie Brunner: "Always push the limit!"

Ski Tours in The likeable ski racer tells about her goals for the Olympic winter, her rituals ahead the Tux Valley of every World Cup race and the special bond she has with her hometown of Tux. Unspoilt nature, a complete deep snow experience set in a mesmerising winter lands- cape. The possibilities for beautiful mountain ski tours around the Tux valley are endless. Tux valley moun- tain guides will point out the most beautiful ski tours and give you advice and guidance on your own adventures and inform you on mountain safe- ty. Here are 3 tour tips:

HOHER RIFFLER, 3.228 m Variable and challenging tour ranging from middle to diffi- cult.

TETTENSJOCH, 2.276 m Stunning views of the Tux val- he 23-year-old young lady ley and the Zillertal. from Tux starts her se- T cond World Cup season GRÜBLSPITZE, 2.395 m this year. She has set herself Stephanie Brunner has set herself Classic climbing tours to ambitious goals for her special great goals for the new World Cup season and is already preparing in- one of the most spectacular disciplines of slalom and giant tensively. Fotos: Head, ÖSV mountain views in the Tux slalom. She reveals how she in- Alps. tends to achieve them and who provides her with support in an as well as life away from racing. My interview with FERIENBLICK: motto: “Always push the limit!”

How did you get into the sport Do you also ski for fun, in your of ski racing? free time? Stephanie Brunner: I stood on Stephanie Brunner: Skiing is my skis for the first time aged 2 1/2, life! If there is time left over to with my dad (Klaus Brunner) at I also try to integrate my hob- How do you prepare yourself ski for fun, then I like nothing the Eggalm ski area in TUX. I bies as much as possible - liste- mentally for a race and how better than to go for a few runs. competed in my first children’s ning to music and climbing - if do you manage to deliver your races for WSV TUX (Winter possible with my dad. best performance exactly when What are your favourite slopes Sports Club), which I enjoyed needed? in the Tux Valley? Glacier Tour immensely. I then moved up to What sporting goals did you Stephanie Brunner: You have Stephanie Brunner: When I the Team and Tyrolean have for winter 2017/18 and regular procedures on race day, have time, I like to ski at Eggalm With 65 ultramodern lifts State Team, before winning a beyond? you could almost call them ritu- (TUX) - Lattenalm lift and cable cars in 5 ski resorts place on the Austrian National Stephanie Brunner: The mot- als. After breakfast we head to allowing you to explore 196 Team. I went to the ski acade- to during preparations is: “DO the slopes early to make inspec- What is your special connec- km of ski slopes – no wonder mies in Neustift and Stams. more than NORMAL” tions. Preparing for the start is tion with the Tux Valley, apart the Zillertal 3000 Ski and Gla- Top 10 in the World Cup Start then very particular –> warm- from the fact that it is one of cier World is known as a su- How do you prepare for a List (Disciplines) up, listen to music, focus on the your sponsors? perlative ski region. World Cup season? When does Participation in the XXIII Win- essential! We also practice for Stephanie Brunner: TUX is my Insiders recommend a ski training begin and what does ter Olympics in Pyeongchang, this during training. home! I grew up in TUX, went to tour from Penkenjoch-Fin- it comprise of? South Korea (my 1st ever Olym- school there and my parents live kenberg via the Rastkogel ski Stephanie Brunner: Post-season pics!) In your blog, you write about there. It is a place I can come area to Eggalm. Save the best is pre-season! Material tests start Top 5 World Cup rankings the "valuable experiences" you home to, where I can relax and ‘til last – the Hintertux Gla- in April - skis and boots. We have in the World Cup. What recharge my batteries. I am, of cier! If you manage a whole then start our full training pro- How do you like to spend your are these, and can you put course, delighted with the gre- glacier round you will put gramme again in early May. The spare time between training them to good use in your life at cooperation I have with TUX- 15,000 altitude meters and training plan includes strength and competing? away from racing? Finkenberg. It is a good feeling 60 downhill km behind you and endurance training, which is Stephanie Brunner: I try to Stephanie Brunner: I think the to have the support of so many in one day! The snow-covered coordinated after consultations find some peace and like to li- most important thing, is that people behind me and to know slopes of Tux-Lanersbach, with the ÖSV (Austrian Ski Fe- sten to some music or read a you can make a difference in they have their fingers crossed Tux- Vorderlanersbach and deration) and Olympiazentrum book. Of course I also use this everything you do. Only those who for me. I would like to take this Hintertux are unadulterated Innsbruck. The whole process is time to visit my family in TUX. make a DIFFERENCE, will be able opportunity to thank TUX-Fin- pleasure! rounded off with good regenera- I always look forward to my to gain an advantage for them- kenberg, as well as my fan club. tion and proper nutrition :-)! mum’s cooking! selves! This applies both to sports, www.stephanie-brunner.at ❚ September 2017 | Nr. 22 Ferien blick 5

Ski School’s Ski Show

Skiing is double the fun with the appropriate and best-maintained equipment. Specialists at the sports shops and ski rentals in Tux-Finkenberg are happy to provide advice and help when choosing your ski gear.

The ski and snowboard ex- perts of the Tux and the Skis: Buy or rent? Finkenberg ski schools are masters in their field. Show- Some like to own their own skis and boots, others appreciate the comfort casing their acrobatic fi- nesse with the backdrop of and convenience of ski rental and the opportunity to try new things. fireworks, hot music and spectacular lighting effects – visitors are glued to the hether athletic skiers, equipment, the specialists in creasing numbers of visitors appre- PURCHASING SKIS. Once spectacle. The snow sports gracefully carving the sports shops and ski rental ciate the comfort and convenience you have found your “favourite specialists will show you W their way down the establishments in the Tux Val- offered by modern ski rental on ski”, buying them is another op- everything that is possible on perfectly prepared pistes at Tux- ley are the first point of contact. site. The advantages offered by pro- tion. Frequent skiers in particu- skis and snowboards, from Finkenberg, adventure seekers They are happy to provide de- fessional advice and modern equip- lar should consider this option, breath-taking jumps and looking for the best line in the tailed advice and put together ment speak for themselves. Gene- as the skis and boots are perma- perfect formations to show- deep snow terrain of the Tux an optimum set of equipment. rally speaking, rental skis are well nently adjusted to suit personal stopping tricks. And all laced Alps, or children taking their Whether you buy skis and boots maintained, in top condition and ability, as well as being immedi- with plenty of humour and first few turns on the nursery or just hire them, depends enti- correspond with the latest and best ately on hand when needed. fun. Entrance is free, the slope - skiing is only really fun rely on personal preference. technology available. The choice Nightliner bus serves the en- when you have the right gear. ranges from comfortable all-round HIRING CHILDREN’S SKIS. tire Tux Valley making access In other words, you need skis, SKI RENTAL. Winter sports and sporty racing skis to models Renting ski equipment for quick and easy. The Ski Show, boots, poles and a helmet, etc., enthusiasts renting skis in the for freeriding, telemark skiing, children offers additional ad- performed in the Arena Hin- tailored perfectly to their inten- Tux Valley just have to: arrive - get touring skis and snowboards, etc. vantages. The skis, boots and teranger in Tux-Lanersbach, ded purpose and the user’s in- advice - select - adjust bindings - Those who like to chop and chan- poles don’t always have to ad- is a highlight surely not to be dividual ability. When it comes done! Most of the equipment can ge, can try out several different apt to the growth and ability of missed. Show dates are from to the appropriate winter sports be reserved online in advance. In- models during a ski vacation. the children. ❚ January 2018 with a start time of 9.15pm. Fun and Games in the Play arena Après-Ski An outstanding outdoor playpark of some 1,000 m² with childcare.

he Play arena Tux family spe- T cialists have created a first- class indoor playground of some 1,000 m² – a fantastic attraction for our smaller guests to the Tux valley. A major Highlight of the Play arena is the age-appropriate Relax, unwind and let the professional and extensive baby rays of sunlight soothe your and child care team – allowing skin. Favoured meeting Pre-New Year’s parents to thoroughly enjoy a points are the plentiful ski Party for Children relaxing winter holiday. Hot- huts, mountain eateries and spots include the huge soft play chill-out zones for a cosy pit- A real highlight for the young- area, trampoline park, bouncy stop. They all warrant their er guests of the Tux valley is the castle, climbing wall, high-ropes titles of “quaint & authentic” ever popular Pre-New Year’s par- course, go-kart track, cinema or “stylish & trendy”. On the ty. All children are invited to wave and children’s theatre. Tiny tots heels of fun and frolics on the goodbye to the old year at the ice through to teens up to 16 years powdery slopes, hip Après- skating rink in Tux-Lanersbach on old are all well catered for with Ski venues tempt you to the Friday, 29th December 2017 from the age-relevant great adventure valley. Cool drinks and hot 1pm onwards. Great atmosphere, and animation programme. Eve- Après-Ski beats make for plen- free drinks and free entrance to the ry Saturday the fun and games ty of flirty fun – winter vibe? ice rink! mecca is open to all Tux and Fin- It’s a slam dunk! kenberg guests. ❚ www.playarena.at 6 Ferien blick September 2017 | Nr. 22

Snowshoeing

From preparing the slopes, to gate judges and general support - volunteers help for days on end during the World Cup Opening.

Snowshoeing – the perfect harmony of sport with na- 100 volunteers help at the ture. Experienced mountain guides will take you to the most breath-taking beauty spots the holiday region of Tux-Finkenberg has to offer Telemark World Cup - with no prior knowledge of the sport required. Tours are They provide assistance for days on end during the World Cup Opening at the Glacier. available in all levels of diffi- culty affording everyone the joy of this unique experience. he world’s fastest Tele- plementation. He is particularly has to be completed in time and the finish line, the working day Equipment can of course mark skiers will join the proud of the dedication shown conform with the rules. for the volunteers is long from be hired in the local sports T start line at the FIS Tele- by his helpers: “Many take a over. Everything has to be prepa- shops of Tux-Finkenberg. mark Ski World Cup Opening week off work so they can help ONE HUNDRED HELPERS. red for the next day and a new at the Hintertux Glacier from at the Telemark World Cup at Around one hundred helpers course set. "When it gets dark at 30.11.2017 to 3.12.2017. The ath- the glacier”. take part on race days. Some are 5:00 pm, we carry on working in letes from 14 nations can rely responsible for making sure the the headlights of the snow groo- Snow Hiking on the very best skiing condi- ONE WEEK. Preparations be- athletes passes each gate proper- mers," says Stefan. For him and tions during their races. This is gin one week before the first ly. If not, they report this to the the committee members, race thanks, amongst others, to the race. Material and equipment timekeepers via hand signal and days during the Telemark World efforts of the many voluntary must be brought to the glacier, radio, for which penalty points Cup weekend start at 5.00 a.m. helpers, who are not only active the slopes must be fenced-in are issued, which in turn affect and often end at 23.00 hours In during the competition, but and secured. Up to three snow- the overall result. “This must addition to all the work on the also help prepare everything for groomers are used to prepare function to one hundred per- slopes, discussions and team the racers during the days lea- the slopes. “A Telemark slope cent. The gate judges are fully meetings still have to take place. ding up to the event. cannot be compared with a re- focussed during the race and are “Such a great event is only possi- Stefan Eberl of the WSV Hip- gular competition slope. There not allowed to leave their positi- ble because of the great support pach (Winter Sports Club) co- is a Nordic jump, a 360 degree on”, explains Stefan. And that is from the volunteers and the ordinates organisation of the banked turn and a skate-ski sec- a challenge when it is really cold. Glacier Cable Car”, says Stefan race preparations and their im- tion”, explains Stefan. All this After the last athlete crosses gratefully. ❚ Höhner performs on the glacier In the holiday region of Tux- Finkenberg there are 68 km of winter hiking trails - some The cult band from Cologne are to perform at the Sommerberg Arena on 23rd March 2018 flattened, some cleared and gritted allowing variety! The "Höhner" can look back over a btedly join in with enthusiasm winter hiking trails to the Eg- stage career spanning 45 years. when they belt out their popu- galm or the Sommerberg are The iconic band from Cologne lar hits such as, "Schenk mir a particular challenge – but is heading to the Tux Valley and dein Herz", "Ich bin ene Räuber" rewarded with a superb view Sommerberg at 2,100 metres and of course the football an- of the encompassing moun- above sea level this winter to thems of, "Viva Colonia" or "Steh tains. For those who prefer a perform on 23rd March 2018. Vi- auf, mach laut!" less energetic route you can sitors can look forward to a ma- The concert begins on 23rd Mar- take the cable cars up to each gnificent show in the midst of ch 2018 at 13.00 hrs. The Som- particular mountain station. the ski area. The six musicians merberg Arena with its splendid Either way, rustic alpine huts will present their latest songs mountain setting in the Ziller- provide Zillertal specialities from the current album and, tal Alps is the perfect event loca- for you to enjoy in their ge- of course, perform their most tion. Admission to the Höhner nerously sized panoramic re- famous hits at this open-air con- concert is included in your ski staurants. cert at the foot of the Hintertux pass. Further details and pro-

Glacier. Audiences will undou- gramme to follow. ❚ Manfred Esser Foto: September 2017 | Nr. 22 Ferien blick 7 “Rach’n” – is an ancient tradition at Christmas time

During the time around Christmas and New Year, many ancient customs are observed in the Tux Mountains. One of these is “smoking” - taking burning incense Floodlit through the rooms of houses on three separate “smoke”, (Christmastide) nights. toboggan runs Three natural toboggan runs he time from Christmas and good health for all living dotted with cosy cabins make to Epiphany and Twelfth beings under its roof. for a change here in the Tux T Night has always been valley, bringing a fun and a special one in the Tyrolean FAMILY. This well-established social element to your holi- Mountains. Only the bare mi- ritual is passed on from one ge- day. The most beautiful – all nimum of work is carried out, neration to the next: Glowing 3 lanes are floodlit in the people use the time to look back embers from the wood-burning evening; Bichlalm in Hin- on the old year, build newfound stove are put into a little pan, tertux at 1,695 m, this 3km strength for future responsibili- to which consecrated incense toboggan run leads into the ties and reflect on their earthly is added. As soon as the incense valley. The toboggan run existence. warms, a wonderful scent per- at Grieralm in Juns at 1,787 vades the air. The whole family m is around 5 km long and PROTECTIVE RITUALS. Over walks with this smoking pan the Höllensteinhütte in Tux- time, many customs and tra- and a vase of holy water through Lanersbach at 1,740 m with ditions have been preserved all the rooms of the house whilst a 4 km run of tobogganing in the Tux Mountains that are praying. The father or mother pleasure. A traditionally run still maintained today. One leads the way, waving the smo- cosy mountain hut for hikers of them is the “smoking” of ke-filled pan to spread smoke in and tobogganers alike. Access rooms of houses and farms. The days around Christmas are a special time in the Tux Valley, where all corners of the house. Other is also possible with our spe- Smoking is a peaceful and very customs are cherished. Smoking is a peaceful and very personal ritual, members of the family splash cial toboggan taxi service. personal ritual, held in the pre- held in the presence of family. holy water in every room. After sence of the family. The custom the residential house is finished, probably dates from the time ritual follows an exact sequen- sing through the rooms with they go on to repeat the ritual of the Germans or Celts, but is ce and is only carried out on burning incense is supposed in the outbuildings, requesting still cultivated in the Tux Val- the three so-called “smoke” to keep demons and disasters blessings from above not only for ley by many, even young people nights, on Christmas Eve, 31st at bay from house and home, the family, but also for their ani- today. This ancient protective December and 5th January. Pas- while praying for the happiness mals and the harvest. ❚

Ecological fuel Ice Skating The Tux woodchip cooperative has been providing sustainable heat for the past 20 years. and Curling Fun a plenty here at the over-sized natural ice rink of he forests of the Tux Val- ve cubic metres of woodchip Tux-Lanersbach! Whatever T ley have an immensely have the thermal value of one your preference, taking the important protective func- thousand litres of heating oil, plunge with skates on, or en- tion for the entire settlement this locally sourced fuel is joying your children’s endea- area in Tux-Finkenberg. But not only extremely sustaina- vours from the edge – fun is they are also a rich source of ble, but a win-win situation guaranteed! raw material. Since 1997, the for all", says forester, Franz Fun and games curling provi- Tux woodchip cooperative - a Geisler, who is also honora- des a couple of hours distrac- consortium of six agricultu- ry managing director of the tion away from the slopes. ral communities and the sa- cooperative. The woodchips Four ice rinks in Tux-Laners- wmill in Lanersbach - use the are stored in two large halls, bach provide entertainment remains of wood harvesting dried by means of solar air and plenty of action on offer as well as windfall timber for heating and delivered to the with “Daube & Stock” long- the production of woodchips. customer's premises as re- range shooting and target With an annual production quired. On developing this practice. of 3,000 cubic metres (around woodchip supply 20 years A tip: Warm up with a shot of 100 truck-container), it sup- ago, this project has assumed local schnapps! There are any plies the community centre, a special pioneering role. To number of ways to experience school centre, residential this day, forest owners, plan- the joy of ice-skating or cur- complex and the Tux-Center ning offices, officials, forestry ling – day or night, alone, in Franz Geisler (small image) explains the process: In summer, firewood de- with valuable and, above all, experts often visit the Tux livered from the forests of Tux is processed into woodchips (large picture) pairs, in a group or with your sustainable fuel. "When one woodchip cooperative to avail and stored. Solar-air-drying ensures a good calorific value of this sustainable whole family – take your pick! considers that ten to twel- themselves of their expertise. ❚ heating material. Customers are supplied directly on demand. 8 Ferien blick September 2017 | Nr. 22

Winter Programme 2017/18 Three Anniversaries in the Tux Valley Loyal regular guests honoured again October 2017 5.-8.10. Hotzone.tv Park Opening 2017 14.-15.10. Pow(d)er Weekend

November 2017 11.-12.11. Goodboards Ski and Snowboard Test at Hintertux Glacier 12.-15.11. Olaf Henning Fan Trip 30.11-3.12. FIS Ski World Cup Opening Telemark at Hintertux Glacier

100 times in the Tux Valley: 50 times in the Tux Valley: 40 times in Finkenberg: December 2017 Herr Heinrich Pöller Herr Günter Mattern Frau Ulrike Haehnel 3.12. Tuxer Advent at Dorfplatz in Tux-Lanersbach 05.12. The “Krampuss” devils roam through the Tux Valley hree anniversaries were ce- tel Bergfried. The host family at ehnel. She celebrated her 40th 15.12. Mountain Advent in the Tux Valley at Tux-Center in T lebrated in the Tux Valley Haus Neuhäusl congratulates Mr. stay in Finkenberg at Landhaus Tux-Lanersbach, begins: 20.30 hrs in the summer of 2017. Herr Günter Mattern for his 50th stay Eder. The entire region thanks 20.12. Advent Devotions with the Zillertal County Music Heinrich Pöller spent his 100th in this holiday domicile. Many the jubilees, as well as all other School, Tux Section holiday in Tux-Finkenberg at Ho- thanks also go to Frau Ulrike Ha- regular guests. ❚ 29.12. Pre-New Year’s Eve party for children at the ice rink in Tux-Lanersbach, from 13:00 hrs 30.12. Pre New Year’s Eve Torch Lit Walk at the Finkenberger Almbahnen cable car/ Dornau Festival Area, from 17:00 hrs Convenient travel to the Tux Valley January 2018 Tux-Finkenberg is within easy reach by train or plane. 03.01. Christmas and New Year’s Concert by the Wiltener Boys Choir at Tux-Lanersbach, begins: 20.30 hrs or a relaxing, laid back jour- reach of the Zillertal with daily F ney to the Tux valley you can scheduled flights throughout leave the car at home. There are Europe. The convenient airport February 2018 numerous speedy travel options transfer brings guests comfortab- 09.02. Folk Music Evening with Zillertal County Music from our public transport net- ly to their accommodation. Thus School, Tux Section work, with the final stage in an light work is made of journeys 13.02. Children’s Carnival Party at Tux-Center in Tux-Lanersbach enchantment class of its’ own; from Berlin, Düsseldorf, Frank- the “Zillertalbahn” is counted as furt or Vienna. The Tux Valley one of the world’s most famous is also easily accessible for our March 2018 narrow-gauge railways. This ser- guests from both Munich and 17.-24.03. Kölsche Winter Week 2018 in Hintertux vice gives you direct access to Salzburg airports. Your car will 23.03. Hintertux Glacier open air with Cologne’s top band, national and international long- be superfluous here – the exten- "Die Höhner" at 2,100 m above sea level in the distance trains from sive ski-bus network brings you Sommerberg Arena. Admission to the Höhner concert is station, found at the entrance to quickly and comfortably to your included in the ski pass. Begins: 13.00 hrs the Zillertal valley. Additionally, destination with the bonus of 27.03. Children’s Easter Festival at Tux-Center in Tux-Lanersbach Innsbruck airport is within easy very short waiting times! ❚ April 2018 07.-14.04. Düsseldorf Week 2018 in Hintertux 14.-15.04. Välley Rälley at the Hintertux Glacier 14.04.-05.05. Flower Pow(d)er Weeks 2018 Gift Vouchers A great present for holiday pleasures in the Tux Valley.

or loved ones, good friends or just to re- F ward yourself. Gift vouchers from Tux- Finkenberg holiday domicile are the perfect present - either as a souvenir or holiday sur- prise. The vouchers can be redeemed in the entire valley and are available from the Tux- Lanersbach and Finkenberg tourist informati- on offices. Gift vouchers from Tux-Finkenberg allow the bearer to enhance their holidays in Extras in Winter 2017/18 the Tux Valley at will, whether in restaurants daily Après-Ski-Party with live music in the bars of or hotels, in shops or for a variety of leisure ac- Tux and Finkenberg tivities. With all its diversity, this gift is hard from January "Heartbeat of Snow" ski show by the to beat. Info: www.tux.at ❚ ski schools of Tux at the Arena Hinteranger in Tux-Lanersbach, at 21:15 hrs respectively Detailed winter programme: IMPRESSUM Herausgeber: Tourismusverband Tux-Finkenberg, Lanersbach 401, A-6293 Tux im Zillertal, www.tux.at | Verleger: Bezirksblätter Tirol GmbH, 6020 www.tux.at and www.tux-center.at Innsbruck, Eduard-Bodem-Gasse 6, Geschäftsführung: Fredy Pfurtscheller, Gunther Sternagl | Redaktion: Karl Künstner | Layout: Bezirksblätter Tirol GmbH | Produktion & Bildbearbeitung: Sarah Eccher | Fotos: Tourismusverband Tux-Finkenberg, Zillertal Tourismus, Hintertuxer Gletscher, Maren Krings, Franz Geisler, WSV Hippach, Head, ÖSV, Manfred Esser | Druck: Athesia Tyrolia Druck GmbH