travel guide winter 2019/20 bregenzerwald

Bregenzerwald Tourismus winter 2019/20 Opening times: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gerbe 1135 | 6863 Egg | | Ideas and Addresses. T +43 (0)5512 2365 | F +43 (0)5512 3010 Your guide through the [email protected] | www.bregenzerwald.at Bregenzerwald. Arriving by train and long-distance bus Public bus services in the region from austria: The Bregenzerwald boasts an excel- Several trains a day, including car lent public bus network. Holders of and night trains, connect eastern and the three-valley pass may travel southern Austria with Vorarlberg. on public buses to commute to the Österreichische Bundesbahn (Aus- ski area of their choice and enjoy trian Railway): their . Timetables, prices and www.oebb.at information: www.vmobil.at

from germany: www.facebook.com/visitbregenzerwald By way of Lindau – or www.youtube.com/bregenzerwaldtourism Oberstaufen. www.instagram.com/visitbregenzerwald Deutsche Bahn (German Railway): www.bahn.de The nearest car train stations are Munich and Lörrach. www.autozug.de

from switzerland: Published by: Photo credits: With EC and IC trains on the Zurich – Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH, Rudolf Berchtel (p. 64) St. Gallen – Bregenz route or via Gerbe 1135, 6863 Egg Ludwig Berchtold (p. 12/56/59/96/98/100) Zurich – Sargans – Feldkirch. Adolf Bereuter (cover, p. 6/25/26/33/34/48/63/ Schweizer Bundesbahn (Swiss Design by: 67/69/71/78/79/80/85/86/87/92/106/110/111) Railway): broger grafi k, Kilian Blees (p. 32) www.sbb.ch Taxis in the region Hubert Cernenschek (p. 61) Taxi Mani Text by: Markus Curin (p. 99) long-distance bus , M +43 (0)664 2110500 Kinz Kommunikation Damüls Faschina Tourismus (p. 4/65) Long-distance buses are a low-cost Taxi Fechtig Florian Aicher (p. 2 – 3, 78 – 79) Peter Fetz (p. 88) alternative way of getting to Bregenz, Bezau, T +43 (0)5514 2311 Kurt Bracharz (p. 92 – 93) Markus Gmeiner (p. 102) , Feldkirch and Taxi Veli Christian Zillner (p. 80 – 81) Thomas Gretler (p. 45) from across Europe: www.fl ixbus.at Andelsbuch, M +43 (0)664 5233477 Karin Hillebrand (p. 58) Taxi Meusburger Carthography: Tourismus (p. 57) Arriving by plane , T +43 (0)5513 6225 Aries Werbegrafi k-Design Alex Kaiser (p. 8/16) The region around Vorarlberg is Hagspiel Touristik © State of Vorarlberg for geographic information Christian Kerber (p. 103) home to several regional and inter- Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 6335 system data Marc Van Landeghem (p. 72) national airports. Most airports Felder Reisen Text and planning of hiking routes: Dr Rudolf Berchtel Björn Matt (p. 84) are connected to railway stations. , T +43 (0)5518 2257 Alois Metzler (p. 60) Several scheduled or shuttle buses Ritter Tours Printed by: Molke Metzler (p. 109) also take visitors to the cities in the Schröcken, T +43 (0)5519 211 BULU, Michael Meusburger (p. 2) Rhine Valley and on request also Taxi Zündel This print was sustainably produced using vegetable Mathias Moosbrugger (p. 76) to the valleys/regions: Zurich (CH), Schwarzenberg, oil-based, environmentally-friendly ink. Naturpark Nagelfl uhkette (p. 73) Altenrhein (CH), Friedrichshafen (D), M +43 (0)664 98 53 113 Schlierenzauer Family (p. 66) Memmingen (D), Munich (D), Inns- Taxi Hörburger Dates and prices subject to change. Typographical Roswitha Schneider (p. 82) bruck (A); transfer options from the Krumbach, M +43 (0)664 1851333 errors cannot be excluded. Issue: August 2019 Konrad Stadelmann (p. 62) airports to the Bregenzerwald: Taxi Benjamin Bilgeri Helmut Tiefenthaler (p. 54/55) www.airport-drivers.com Sulzberg, M +43 (0)680 4450793 contents 1

Arriving by train and long-distance bus Public bus services in the region from austria: The Bregenzerwald boasts an excel- Several trains a day, including car lent public bus network. Holders of and night trains, connect eastern and the three-valley ski pass may travel southern Austria with Vorarlberg. on public buses to commute to the Österreichische Bundesbahn (Aus- ski area of their choice and enjoy trian Railway): their skiing. Timetables, prices and www.oebb.at information: www.vmobil.at

The Bregenzerwaldfrom germany: 2 family tips...... 47 www.facebook.com/visitbregenzerwald By way of Lindau – Bregenz orKids’ programme 48 www.youtube.com/bregenzerwaldtourism ski & boardOberstaufen...... 5 Day trip tips 52 www.instagram.com/visitbregenzerwald 3-valley ski Deutschepass Bahn (German6 Railway): Warth-Schröckenwww.bahn.de Ski Arlberg 8 active winter...... 53 Damüls-Mellau-FaschinaThe nearest car train stations12 Winter are hiking 54 DiedamskopfMunich Au- and Lörrach. 16 Snow-shoe hikes 67 Bödele-Schwarzenbergwww.autozug.de 20 Horse-drawn sleigh and Egg-Schetteregg 21 carriage trips 71 Hochhäderichfrom switzerland: Out and about with animals 72 Published by: Photo credits: Hittisau-RiefensbergWith EC and IC trains on22 theNagelfluhkette Zurich – nature park 73 Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH, Rudolf Berchtel (p. 64) Niedere Andelsbuch-BezauSt. Gallen – Bregenz route23 orTobogganing via 74 Gerbe 1135, 6863 Egg Ludwig Berchtold (p. 12/56/59/96/98/100) Hochlitten ZurichRiefensberg – Sargans – Feldkirch.24 Paragliding 76 Adolf Bereuter (cover, p. 6/25/26/33/34/48/63/ Snowparks Schweizer& Freestyle Bundesbahn 25 (Swiss Design by: 67/69/71/78/79/80/85/86/87/92/106/110/111) Ski! ProjectRailway): 26 culture...... 77 broger grafi k, Andelsbuch Kilian Blees (p. 32) www.sbb.ch Architecture Taxis in the region 78 Hubert Cernenschek (p. 61) ski & freedom...... 27 Umgang BregenzerwaldTaxi Mani 80 Text by: Markus Curin (p. 99) Map of the long-distancearea bus 28 Werkraum BregenzerwaldBezau, M +43 (0)664 211050082 Kinz Kommunikation Damüls Faschina Tourismus (p. 4/65) Skiing toursLong-distance buses are29 a low-costHand-made Taxi Fechtig 84 Florian Aicher (p. 2 – 3, 78 – 79) Peter Fetz (p. 88) Variation skiingalternative way of getting32 toBUS:STOP Bregenz, KrumbachBezau, T +43 (0)5514 231186 Kurt Bracharz (p. 92 – 93) Markus Gmeiner (p. 102) InterestingDornbirn, information Feldkirch and34 BludenzCabaret & villageTaxi culture Veli 87 Christian Zillner (p. 80 – 81) Thomas Gretler (p. 45) from across Europe: www.fl Cultureixbus.at in hotelsAndelsbuch, and pubs M +43 (0)66488 5233477 Karin Hillebrand (p. 58) xc skiing...... 35 Exhibitions &Taxi museums Meusburger 89 Carthography: Hittisau Tourismus (p. 57) Au-SchoppernauArriving by plane 36 Lingenau, T +43 (0)5513 6225 Aries Werbegrafi k-Design Alex Kaiser (p. 8/16) Bezau--ReutheThe region around Vorarlberg37 dining is out...... Hagspiel Touristik 91 © State of Vorarlberg for geographic information Christian Kerber (p. 103) Damüls home to several regional38 andKäsestrasse inter- &Hittisau, Bregenzerwald T +43 (0)5513 6335 system data Marc Van Landeghem (p. 72) Hittisau national airports. Most 39airportsCulinary DelightsFelder Region Reisen 92 Text and planning of hiking routes: Dr Rudolf Berchtel Björn Matt (p. 84) Mellau-Schnepfauare connected to railway40 stations.Alpine dairy shopsMellau, T +43 (0)5518 942257 Alois Metzler (p. 60) -HochhäderichSeveral scheduled or shuttle41 Culinarybuses winterRitter hikes Tours 96 Printed by: Molke Metzler (p. 109) Schwarzenbergalso take visitors to the42 citiesCuisine in the guideSchröcken, T +43 (0)551998 211 BULU, Lustenau Michael Meusburger (p. 2) SibratsgfällRhine Valley and on request43 also Taxi Zündel This print was sustainably produced using vegetable Mathias Moosbrugger (p. 76) Sulzberg to the valleys/regions: Zurich44 well-being (CH), ...... Schwarzenberg, 105 oil-based, environmentally-friendly ink. Naturpark Nagelfl uhkette (p. 73) Nordic SportAlten Parkrhein Sulzberg (CH), Friedrichshafen45 Health (D), hotels M +43 (0)664 98 53 113106 Schlierenzauer Family (p. 66) Warth-SchröckenMemmingen (D), Munich46 (D),Wellness Inns- hotelsTaxi Hörburger 107 Dates and prices subject to change. Typographical Roswitha Schneider (p. 82) bruck (A); transfer options fromNatural the productsKrumbach, M +43 (0)664109 1851333 errors cannot be excluded. Issue: August 2019 Konrad Stadelmann (p. 62) airports to the Bregenzerwald: Taxi Benjamin Bilgeri Helmut Tiefenthaler (p. 54/55) www.airport-drivers.com BregenzerwaldSulzberg, travel journal M +43 (0)680110 4450793 Getting there, buses & taxis 112 2 the bregenzerwald

Travelling the Bregenzerwald always spectrum which, right at the start of means having to overcome dizzy tourism, had travellers extolling the heights to start with: from Bregenz “charming landscape” as an “enclosed you take the Pfänder, from the Rhine park” whilst at the same time shudder- Valley the valley side which ascends ing at the “Siberian exile” on the wild, 500 m, from the north you take the upper course of the Ache. A valley area Sulzbergstock, from the east the Ried- of contrasts, borders, crossings. berg or Hochtannberg pass, from the south the Furkajoch or Faschinajoch. Crossings Cross-border experiences also leave Up and over is the way to go – the most their mark on the locals – they know impressive views are from the north how to set themselves apart from out- and the west – and a space is revealed side. Yet the scarce rural areas have which, in all its diversity, is completely never been sufficient to feed the pop- different to all that surrounds it, with ulation. The locals had to get mov- the Bregenzerache uniting it all. Your ing, cross borders, leave behind their route takes you through gorges and homes and families. This took on flat hollows – wide between the hills many different forms: the nomadic of the foothills of the Alps around existence of alpine animal ­husbandry and ­Lingenau, narrow (home, mountain pasture, alp → between the mountains of the foothills page 92), or in the form of seasonal of the Alps around Andelsbuch and migrant work outbound commuting Bezau, squeezed in between the alpine or even emigration (to America in the peaks of the Kanisfluh, Diedams­ 19th century in particular). Flexibility, kopf, Zitterklapfen and ­Widderstein ideas and self-help were essential to around , Au, Schoppernau, stave off poverty. Warth and Schröcken. This correlates The area was only sparsely populated with the division into the Vorder- for a long time: only plot names give wald, ­Mittelwald and Hinterwald rise to assumptions about the border (front, central and rear regions of the between Celtic and Rhaeto-Romanic ­Bregenzerwald) – a topographical cultures. It was not until the High the bregenzerwald 3

View of the Kanisfluh Middle Ages that Mehrerau Mon- school in the Habsburg Empire was astery in Bregenz encouraged the established. The new rulers were the population of the area upwards of cheese barons who amassed stagger- the Bregenzerache. From above, com- ing wealth with the products of the ing the opposite direction, you come new form of agriculture, and textile across a second wave of population manufacturers who supplied mate- with the Walsers. The particle “Wald” rial produced by the textiles home (forest, wood) found in many of the industry before the railway provided names of places makes it clear how factories in the Rhine valley with undeveloped this settlement area was workers after 1902. Such changes for a long time. Naturally, the locals were also accompanied by resist- gladly take advantage of this remote- ance – Franz Michael Felder, author ness: interesting as a hunting ground and spokesman of the revolt, is still at best for the feudal rulers, extensive considered an exceptional charac- autonomy was allowed to develop ter (Franz Michael Felder Museum → which went down in literature as a page 89) in the valley today, and “peasants’ republic”. It ended with which is why one’s own house and the brief Bavarian occupation (1806 – home are tenaciously clung to. New 1814) as a result of the realignment of sources of income have to be continu- Europe by Napoleon. ously developed – the multitude of manual skills is proof of this. Hard cheese and lace It was during this time that the region This culture has succeeded in main- developed in the form you see today. taining its vitality. Innovation and Rational, mercantile methods gained flexibility based on the acquired con- importance in agriculture, desert- tinue today in initiatives such as the edness became characteristic of the Werkraum (→ page 82) and have Vorderwald to the Mittelwald, pro- turned the Bregenzerwald into a duction of hard cheese grew (alpine model European region. dairy → page 92) to such a sustain- able extent that the first dairy farm 4

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Share the most beautiful impressions of your last Bregenzerwald holiday with us and – with a bit of luck – win a very special holiday experience!

The prizes up for grabs are holiday vouchers for ­individual holiday experiences in Austria. Be it in a family-run hotel or in a tastefully ­furnished holiday apartment, it’s up to you what type of holiday you want to enjoy next in Austria. All the prizes and more details may be found at the beginning of the survey.

We wish you lots of luck! Your team from Bregenzerwald Tourismus

See here for the survey: tmona.at/l7u2 5 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips ski & board The Bregenzerwald’s skiing areas have active winter for all tastes and all levels, the most ­ up-to-date lifts, cosy mountain inns and lovely lookout points. Put simply: a joy for skiers and snowboarders! culture dining out dining well-being 6 3-valley ski pass

In the Damüls-Mellau skiing area

The 3-valley ski pass is valid for 33 Season dates ­skiing areas in the Bregenzerwald, in low season the Große Walsertal, in the Lechtal, Start of the season until in the Allgäu and on the ski buses. 20 December 2019 You can choose from ski passes for 5 until 24 January 2020 between 2.5 and 21 days, special 15 March until 4 April 2020 passes for between 2, 5 and 14 April 2020 until the end of 8 days and season passes. the season

These prices are valid for all those high season who produce a Guest Card from any 21 December 2019 until town or village in the Bregenzerwald. 4 January 2020 Anyone not possessing such a Guest 25 January until 14 March 2020 Card pays an additional € 4 per ski 5 until 13 April 2020 pass. Age limits Should the high and low seasons Seniors, born in 1955 and older overlap, a mixed price is calculated. Youths, born in 2001 – 2003 It is possible to extend a 3-valley pass Kids, born in 2004 – 2013 valid for at least 2.5 days by one day. Snowman, born in 2014 or later

Group tariffs apply from 18 people. Ski buses included To go skiing, holders of the 3-val- Advance sales possible from 3 p.m. ley ski pass can use the public buses on the day before from the cable cars to reach the skiing area of their and from the information centre of choice (excluded: skiing areas of Bregenzerwald Tourismus in Egg. All Oberstaufen). In addition, ski buses prices include smart card (except which can also be used free of charge season tickets), are in euro and ­operate in numerous villages. include VAT at 10%. 3-valley ski pass 7 ski & board

Adults Adults Days/time High season Low season Pensioners Youths Children Snowman 2.5 (from 11.30) 127 121 121 112 64 14 3 144 137 137 127 72 15 4 176 168 168 155 88 17 ski & freedom 5 208 198 198 184 104 19 6 240 228 228 212 120 21 7 268 255 255 236 134 23 8 297 283 283 262 149 25 9 323 307 307 285 162 27 10 348 331 331 307 174 29

11 370 352 352 326 185 31 xc skiing 12 393 374 374 346 197 33 13 412 392 392 363 206 35 14 431 410 410 380 216 37 15 450 428 428 396 225 39 16 467 444 444 411 234 41 17 480 456 456 423 240 43 family tips 18 494 470 470 435 247 45 19 508 483 483 448 254 47 20 519 494 494 457 260 49 21 528 502 502 465 264 51

Should the high and low seasons overlap, a mixed price is automatically calculated!

AD* 50 48 48 44 25 5 active winter 2x1 day** 103 - 98 91 52 9 5x1 day** 240 - 228 212 120 - 8x1 day** 348 - 331 307 174 -

*AD = additional day immediately following the ski pass from 2.5 days **Choose between 2x1 day, 5x1 day and 8x1 day: valid for 2 or 5/8 days within an entire winter season

Ski pass prices are valid upon presentation of a Guest Card: otherwise, a surcharge of € 4 culture per ski pass applies.

facts and figures information bregenzerwald skiing region 3-Täler-Infocenter 15 skiing areas Gerbe 1135

88 lifts, comprising 6863 Egg, Vorarlberg out dining 1 large cable car T +43 (0)5512 2365-30 5 cable cars [email protected] 32 chair lifts www.3taeler.at 50 ski tows and practice lifts 247 km of prepared pistes, comprising 93 km of blue pistes well-being 120 km of red pistes 34 km of black pistes 8 warth-schröcken ski arlberg

Skiing in Warth-Schröcken

lifts and cable cars • Schröcken-Hochkrumbach ski 14 cable cars sports school Josef Staggl 46 chair lifts M +43 (0)664 7575500 28 ski tows •  Arlberg Snowsports Marcel Fetz, M +43 (0)664 4277942 pistes Length of the slopes: 305 km ski rental davon: • Sporttraum, Schröcken of which: M +43 (0)664 75105330 132 km are blue pistes • Sport Jug, Warth 123 km are red pistes M +43 (0)664 5559910 50 km are black pistes • Sport Knitel, Warth, T +43 (0)5583 3612 day ticket (high season) Warth-Schröcken: après ski Adult: € 54 Schröcken: Holzschopf, Café Bar Child: € 27 Bistro Ritters, Salober S1 Ski Lounge Arlberg: Warth: Best Of – Pub, Sennkuchi, Adult: € 56.50 ­Steffisalp – skiing hut and umbrella Child: € 34 bar, ’s Finale – Wartherhof

Ski-Arlberg ski tickets information Discounted Ski Arlberg ski tickets • Skilifte Warth GmbH & Co KG (→ page 9) T +43 (0)5583 3601-0 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5583 3601-11 ski school & children’s ski school • Ski lifts Schröcken Strolz GmbH • Ski and school T +43 (0)5583 4259-0 Salober-Schröcken Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5583 2255 T +43 (0)5583 4259600 www.warth-schroecken.at • Ski and snowboard school Warth T +43 (0)5583 3443 warth-schröcken ski arlberg 9 ski & board The mountain villages of Warth and Variety Schröcken, with their diverse pistes and Ski movie racing track free-ride slopes, are located at an altitude Skiers can have themselves filmed on of between 1,300 and 1,500 metres, and the track by the automatic are ensured a good covering of snow. The video camera on the ski movie track

northern and eastern slopes guarantee next to the Steffisalp-Express and also ski & freedom the best possible conditions until well have their time recorded. Download into spring. Skiers take the cable car to from www.warth-schroecken.at the Ski Arlberg skiing area with 305 km of pistes. Giant slalom racing track The giant slalom racing track, 650 Special features metres in length and secured, is located Selection of lift tickets next to the Sonnencruiser lift and ena- xc skiing Guests in Warth-Schröcken have a num- bles you to record your time. ber of different ski passes to choose from: Speed check - Warth-Schröcken ski pass, 1 to 2.5 days All visitors get the chance to set their - Three-valley ski pass (Bregenzerwald, very own record on the secured high- Großes Walsertal, Lechtal), 2.5 to 21 days speed track next to the Kuchl lift, and family tips - Ski Arlberg ski pass (Warth-Schröcken, compare their time against that of the Zürs, St. Anton), 1 to 30 days Olympic champion Hubert Strolz, a Holders of three-valley ski passes (2.5 native of Warth. He hit the 92 km an to 21 days, season tickets) and of Warth- hour mark on this track. Schröcken season passes are also entitled

to buy discounted Ski Arlberg ­flexible Funslope Steffisalp active winter day tickets A change from the classic fun on the pistes is on offer by the slopes with two For families and children lines featuring numerous waves, steep Pauli’s Ski Arena Salober bends, fun boxes, butter boxes and a Pauli’s Ski Arena at the Salober-Jet valley snail. A pleasure for skiers both big and station is a learning and adventure area small. (three practice lifts, children’s slopes). culture New: Pauli’s Kids Cross Salober Northface The three black pistes on the Salober Kinderland Skischule Salober- Northface are just the job for those who Schröcken Ski School love it really steep. The gradient of the Pauli’s Adventure Land at the Salober- black slope 253 “Ochsenkopf” exceeds

Schröcken Ski School turns ski practice 70 %. out dining into a special winter experience. Chamois on the Kinderland of the Ski School Warth On ski run 262 “Gamssprung” , 1,150 Pauli’s favourite place is the VIP area for metres in length, again and again you kids attending the ski school. get an eyeful of stunning impressions of the mountains. The marking is origi- Warth guest kindergarten nal: a prancing chamois points the way well-being Children aged between 2 and 4 years of on the ski run. age are supervised by the hour or the day at the Bambiniclub at Warth ski school. 10 warth-schröcken ski arlberg

SAAC (snow & alpine awareness camps)-Training Camps There are several dates available for skiers who are interested in learning and practising the use of avalanche transceivers and the correct search strategies in emergencies. Registration: www.saac.at Freeride courses: www.skischule-salober.at Telemark: www.skitannberg.at “Five-star ski area” award and “Könner & Freerider” test winner according to Skiresort.de, the world’s biggest test portal for skiing areas. warth-schröcken ski arlberg 11 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter culture dining out dining

Ski & Concert Warth Dates: From early February, 3 p.m. on Saturdays, free admission Venue: open-air stage at the Sporthotel Steffisalp www.skiandconcert.at Après-Ski & Live music in the S1 Ski Lounge well-being Dates: Saturdays from 2.30 p.m. on selected dates from 11 January to the end of the season, free admission Venue: S1 Ski Lounge in the Salober Ski Arena. www.s1skilounge.at 12 damüls-mellau-faschina

Varied ski runs in Damüls-Mellau

lifts and cable cars • Sport Natter, Mellau 2 cable cars Talstation Mellaubahn 15 chair lifts T +43 (0)5518 2222-37 2 ski tows • Sport Natter, Mellau 4 practice lifts Alphof Rossstelle 2 rope tows T +43 (0)5518 2222-38 6 moving walkways ski school & children’s ski school pistes •  Damüls ski school Lengths of the slopes: 109 km T +43 (0)5510 295 of which: • Mellau ski and snowboard school 28 km are blue pistes T +43 (0)5518 220011 50 km are red pistes 10 km are black pistes après ski 21 km of ski trails Damüls: ’s Scharfe Eck, ’s Damülser Après Ski, day ticket (high season) Alpenkluft, Schwartenstadl, Kiosk Uga, Adult: € 52.50 HeHo Hütte, Heikes Schirmbar Child: € 30 Mellau: M1 cable car valley station, ski rental ’s Bärle, Metzgerstüble • Madlener Sport, Damüls T +43 (0)5510 391 information • manis rent sport center, Damüls • Damüls cable cars M +43 (0)699 12109630 T +43 (0)5510 600 • Intersport Matt, Damüls Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5510 600-14 T +43 (0)5510 25250 • Mellau cable cars • Sport Broger, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2222 T +43 (0)5518 2240 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5518 2222-23 • Sport Natter, Mellau www.damuels-mellau.at T +43 (0)5518 22620 damüls-mellau-faschina 13 ski & board Damüls and Mellau complement Easy Cheesy Land Mellau each other perfectly. In the Walser The perfect training ground for new- village of Damüls, located at a high comers to skiing is located between altitude, skiiers literally step out of Rossstelle and Gipfelbahn. The ­button the front door and are on the slopes. lift takes you on a short trip up the

Mellau enjoys a central location in mountain. Passing colourful figures, ski & freedom the ­valley, with the Mellau cable car you wend your way downhill on the providing easy access to the skiing gently sloping piste. area. The skiing area combines plenty of snow, sun-kissed south slopes, the Bunny’s snowmobile course best possible piste conditions through A small snowmobile takes visitors to the spring on the north slopes and over the specially designed course, impressive views. which is supervised by ski instructors. xc skiing Where: at the Damüls ski school’s Special features ­practice area in Riedboden Damüls circular tour When: every Wednesday at 10.30 a.m. The around three-hour skiing tour between 25 Dec. 2019 and 15 Apr. 2020 takes you through the entire skiing Price per person: € 1 per lap area and special stops. The All-Moun- information & reservations family tips tain-Line with Kids’ Park, the speed Reservations by guests not at the ski track with video analysis, the Damüls school by 4 p.m. on the day before skiing museum and a photo point Damüls ski school, T +43 (0)5510 295 are all located on the tour. It is also www.skischule-damuels.at worth stopping off at two viewing

points affording an impressive view Variety active winter into the distance. The circular tour Afternoon of fun sports guide with time specifications (as a Accompanied by ski and snow- guidance only) and precise informa- board instructors, guests discover tion is available at the starting point the Damüls-Mellau skiing area, with (mountain station Hohe Wacht) and snowblades and Skifox. from the ski pass cash desks in the Meeting point: Mellau ski school, skiing area. ­valley station of Mellau cable car culture Dates: daily upon request For families and children Duration: approx. 2 hours Guest kindergarten Price per person: € 54 including fun Mellau: children between the ages sports equipment, excluding ski pass of 1 and 6 years are welcome in the Minimum number of participants:

supervised guest kindergarten at the 3 people (surcharge if less) out dining mountain station of Mellau cable car. information & reservations Opening times: daily, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Mellau ski and snowboard school and 1 to 4 p.m. M +43 (0)664 3428979 Damüls: children from the age of 2 www.skischule-mellau.at years are supervised in the Bunny- club. Contact the local carer to discuss tip: museum the supervision of children below two Kulisse Pfarrhof, Damüls well-being years of age. The and tourism Opening times: Sun to Friday in Damüls (→ page 89) 9.30 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. 14 damüls-mellau-faschina

Freeriding Damüls-Mellau The terrain in the Damüls mountains is perfect for and ski tours. Fantastic deep snow slopes and attractive routes abound. You get the best views from the vantage points located at altitudes up to 2,000 metres. For your own safety, it is recommended that you only undertake tours off-piste accompanied by a ski instructor or ski guide.

Snowparks & Freestyle → S. 25 damüls-mellau-faschina 15 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter

2nd Damüls Nostalgia Ski Race 29 March 2020 culture The Damülser Nostalgie ski race has three different categories. Skiers in nostalgic clothing or dirndls and lederhosen can compete against each other for the trophies. information Damüls Tourismus, T +43 (0)5510 620-0, www.damuels.travel dining out dining

Après-ski at the Lari Fari Party atmosphere and live music with the “Franzoi” duo at the Café Restaurant Lari Fari in Faschina – directly opposite the Stafelalp cable car’s valley station. Dates: every Tuesday from 3 p.m. between 24 December and 14 April

“Extraklasse” (“Extra class”) award: “world’s leading ski area with up to 80 well-being kilometres of pistes” according to Skiresort.de, the world’s biggest test portal for skiing areas. 16 diedamskopf au-schoppernau

Diedamskopf in Au-Schoppernau

lifts and cable cars ski school & children’s ski school 2 cable railways Au-Schoppernau snow sports school 2 chair lifts T +43 (0)5515 2133 4 ski tows www.schneesportschule-bregenzer- wald.at pistes Lengths of the slopes: 40 km après ski of which: Schoppernau: Ski Inn 13 km are blue pistes Au: Erlebnisgasthof Ur-Alp 11 km are red pistes 7 km are black pistes information 9 km of ski trails Diedamskopf cable cars Au-­Schoppernau day ticket T +43 (0)5515 4110-0 Adult: € 46 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5515 4110-99 Child: € 26.50 www.diedamskopf.at www.facebook.at/diedamskopf ski rental • Sport Gorbach, Au T +43 (0)5515 4141-1 www.gorbach.at • Sport Fuchs, Au T +43 (0)5515 2315 www.sportfuchs.com • Sport Matt, Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 4120 www.matt.at diedamskopf au-schoppernau 17 ski & board The pistes on the Diedamskopf, at an Ski school altitude of 2,090 m, are as popular In “Didiland”, children playfully amongst advanced skiiers as amongst learn how to take their first steps families with children experienced in on . There are three conveyor skiing. Top: the long descent into the belts, a carousel, shuggy boats, a

valley and the off-piste skiing options. snow igloo, a tent and much more. ski & freedom You get a very special panorama of The skiing courses for the older kids the mountains and as far as Lake include an experience and safety Constance from the peak, accessible programme comprising a barbecue via the winter hiking path and the in a tipi, snow rafting with a ­Skidoo year-round base for paragliders and and abseiling. Kids can find out hang-gliders. every­thing they need to know about “Safety in snow sports” in the safety xc skiing Special features camps. Diedams valley run: those in good shape plump for the 10-km long val- Variety ley run, which covers a difference in Fun slope altitude of 1,250 metres. The fun slope featuring waves, jumps, a tunnel and snail promises family tips Grunholz night-time skiing: The fun for the whole family. lift serves two lovely, gently sloping pistes. This is one of the few places Ski movie track in the Bregenzerwald that you can Skiers can have their very own giant ski and toboggan on an evening too, slalom racing video made on the ski

by floodlight. The three-valley ski move track on the Breiten alp. You active winter pass is valid for the journeys by lift. can watch and download the video Evening opening times: Wednesday from www.skiline.cc. and Friday, 7 to 10 p.m. Snowparks & Freestyle → S. 25 For families and children Guest kindergarten in Didis Kinderland culture A children’s play area covering 300 m2 is housed on the top floor of the mountain station. The kids are looked after and can spend either the whole day or a few hours here.

Lunch is also available upon request. out dining There is a parent-child area for chil- dren up to three years of age. Opening times: at lift operating time daily between 10 a.m. and 3.30 p.m. Price: free of charge for all children up to 8 years of age well-being 18 diedamskopf au-schoppernau diedamskopf au-schoppernau 19 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips active winter culture dining out dining well-being 20 bödele-schwarzenberg

Hochälpelekopf 1467 m

Hochälpele Hütte

3 1 3 Bregenzer 2 1 Hütte 8 8 3 3 6 5 2 C 4

Lustenauer Alpenblick Hütte Seeblick 6 E 7 4 7 Lank D 3 Lankhütte

Klausberg 8 H Schanzenblick Dornbirner 1 3 6 Hütte A Schnee- mann Hochälpele WC Parcours G Meierei 12 b F Oberlose 12 1 b Meierei 3 Oberlose WC KIOSK

Alpenhotel 3 BÖDELE 1155 m Berghof 1 Fetz Skischule Gasthof SKI Bödele P1 H RENT Hochälpele 3 P2 Halde SKI RENT H Haldenstüble WC

I P3 Skischule 12 Schwarzenberg B a 3 Weißtanne 12 Weißtanne 10 a Gmeind K H Geißkopf 1198 m 12 c Hag 9 Eixer P4 11

10 H

10

11 Oberkaltberg H

P5 H H 3 Unterkaltberg Hotel Sonnhalde Beien H SCHWARZENBERG SPORT

Sport Freien Fink H H € P6

lifts and cable cars day ticket (high season) 1 chair lift Adult: € 34.60 9 ski tows Child: € 19 1 connecting lift après ski pistes Berghof Fetz, Meierei Lengths of the slopes: 24 km, of which: 9 km are blue pistes information 12 km are red pistes Tourist office Schwarzenberg 3 km are black pistes T +43 (0)5512 3570 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5572 7321 ski school & children’s ski school www.boedele.info • Ski school Bödele M +43 (0)664 75036843 www.skiboedele.at Learn to ski guaranteed • Ski school Schwarzenberg The ski schools guarantee that M +43 (0)664 2214075 all children will be able to ski by www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at themselves on the practice slopes within four hours: ski rental • Berg Fink Ski & Bergsport, Skischule Bödele Schwarzenberg, T +43 (0)5512 2918 from 4 years www.bergfink.at M +43 (0)664 75036843 • Skishop Bödele www.skiboedele.at Berghof Fetz, M +43 (0)664 75036843 www.skiboedele.at Skischule Schwarzenberg • Ski rental Bregenzerwald from 3.5 years: learning to ski (Hochälpele/Bödele) with a magic wand Hochälpele , valley station M +43 (0)664 2214075 M +43 (0)664 2312614 www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at www.skiverleih-bregenzerwald.at egg-schetteregg 21 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

lifts and cable cars après ski 1 chair lift Gasthaus Amagmach inn, Lifthus 5 ski tows family tips 2 conveyor belts information 1 carousel Egger lift company T +43 (0)5512 4750 pistes www.schetteregg.at Lengths of the slopes: 10 km

of which: active winter 3 km are blue pistes 6 km are red pistes 1 km are black pistes ski school & children’s ski Schetti’s kids’ paradise school Magic carpets and a ski carousel Ski school Schetteregg in the kids’ paradise can be used culture M +43 (0)680 2446881 free of charge by all visitors. www.schi-schule.at Young guests have enough to do in the breaks in Schettiland with ski rental its igloo and climbing hill. Sport Waldner Pistes for kids: all pistes in Schet-

T +43 (0)5512 4750-21 teregg bears a mascot which out dining www.sportwaldner.at briefly describes what children should be capable of in order to day ticket (high season) ski on that particular piste. From Adult: € 34.50 the snowplough turn on the Child: € 19 hedgehog circuit, through to safe curving on the bear slope through to dynamic carving on the lynx well-being piste. 22 hochhäderich hittisau-riefensberg

lifts and cable cars day ticket (high season) 1 chair lift Adult: € 33.50 4 ski tows Child: € 23

pistes après ski Lengths of the slopes: 9 km Umbrella bar at the valley station of which: 4 km are blue pistes information 3 km are red pistes Alpenarena Hochhäderich 2 km are black pistes T +43 (0)5513 8254-0 Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5513 8254-51 ski school & children’s ski school www.alpenarena.com Snow sports school Hochhäderich Timm Stade T +43 (0)5513 8254-171 www.skischule-hochhaederich.at

ski rental • Jakobs Skishop, Hochhäderich T +43 (0)5513 8254-61 www.alpenarena.com • Sport Spettel, Hittisau T +43 (0)5513 6341 www.spettel.at • Sport Gotthard, Hittisau tip: skiing area for families T +43 (0)5513 2260 Almhotel right next to the piste www.sport-gotthard.com with family apartments, swim- ming pool and wellness area. Ideal for families with small children. niedere andelsbuch-bezau 23 ski & board

Winterstaude 1880 m Skigebiet Niedere

Tristenkopf Andelsbuch - Bezau 1740 m Hohe Kirche 1750 m

Bullerschkopf 1760 m Lifte und Bahnen Niedere Höhe 1715 m A Doppelsesselbahn Gerach Niederekopf D B Doppelsesselbahn Niedere A lpine s C Doppelschlepplift Niederemulde 1 T ourenge bie t 2 3 2 D Schlepplift Niederekopf 1 Niedermulde 6 1 2 E Schlepplift Breitfeld C Bergstation 6 Niedere Baumgartenhöhe 1650 m 1600 m F Seilbahnski & freedom Bezau

G Übungslift Andelsbuch Talstation Bergstation 1550m H Förderband Andelsbuch Talstation

Breitfeld Skirouten und Abfahrten E Niedere 2 B 1 Abfahrt Niedere 1 2 Abfahrt Muldenlifte

1 3 Abfahrt Niederekopflift 4 Mittelstation F 1150 m Bezau 4 Abfahrt Breitfeldlift Mittelstation 4 Sonderdach 5 Abfahrt Übungslift 4 4 4 1200 m 6 Skiweg

Rodelbahn Baumgarten - Sonderdach

1 Skiroute Niederekopf - Sonderdach 2 2 Skiroute Kälberboden - Schwende 3 Gerach 3 2 Skiroute Gerach - Schwende

A 4 Älpele - Talstation

Skipiste 3 (markiert, präpariert und vor alpinen Gefahren gesichert) 4 leicht, easy, facile

mittelschwexc skiing r, middletrait, media

Förderband schwierig, difficult, difficile Übungslift H 5 G Skiroute (markiert, vor alpinen Gefahren gesichert) Talstation Talstation Bezau Andelsbuch 680 m 655m lifts and cable cars day ticket (high season) 1 large cable car in Bezau (60 p.) Adult: € 33.20 2 chair lifts Child: € 19 family tips 4 ski tows 1 practice lift après ski 1 moving walkway valley station Andelsbuch: Mooser Stüble, Jöslar, Andelsbuch Lissbar

pistes information active winter Lengths of the slopes: 10 km Andelsbuch cable cars of which: T +43 (0)5512 2540 5 km are blue pistes Snow hotline: T + 43 (0)5512 2540 4 km are red pistes www.bergbahnen-andelsbuch.at 1 km are black pistes Bezau cable car ski school T +43 (0)5514 2254 culture Niedere Skiing Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5514 2254 M +43 (0)664 2214075 www.seilbahn-bezau.at www.niedere-skiing.com ski rental

• Berg Fink Ski & Bergsport, out dining Schwarzenberg, T +43 (0)5512 2918 www.bergfink.at • Sport Thomas Bezau T +43 (0)5514 31441 www.sport-thomas.at tip: variation skiing: Fantastic north and south slopes well-being for variation skiers. 24 hochlitten riefensberg

lifts and cable cars 4 ski tows

pistes Lengths of the slopes: 4.4 km of which: 4.4 km are blue pistes

ski school & children’s ski school Ski and snowboard school Hittisau-Sibratsgfäll www.ski-snowboard-schule.at M +43 (0)664 73086646

day ticket (high season) Adult: € 28 Child: € 17.50

information Ski lifts Hochlitten tip: skiing area for families T +43 (0)5513 8312-2 Located away from the ­hustle and Snow hotline: T +43 (0)5513 8239 bustle of large skiing areas. Small www.skilifte-hochlitten.com yet exquisite skiing area, ideal for families with small children. Plus: racing service and three rac- ing tracks for club, association or company races FIS-homologated slalom run for men and women. snowparks & freestyle 25 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Snowpark Damüls

Snowboarders and freestylers can Diedamspark enjoy themselves at a broad range of The Diedamspark is a highlight for different snow parks. both snowboarders and freeskiers. family tips Whether beginner or advanced, the Damüls snowpark variety of rails, boxes and kickers The largest snow park in the from easy to pro will help everyone Bregenzer­wald is a hotspot of the find their “line”. Deckchairs and com- freestyle scene. It comprises the fortable sound for relaxing in can

Mainpark, the Ugapark with the All- be enjoyed in the chill area. There active winter Mtn-Line and the Kids’ snow park. are also lots of really good places for The facilities include various kick- powder kickers in addition to the ers, rails, boxes, large boats, a chill- steep shoots and channels on the out area, a fun line and much more. Diedamskopf. The runs in the hollow Events are regularly held. at the Krüzlelift are classic. The snowpark stretches from the Uga www.diedamskopf.at mountain station to the Mainpark. www.facebook.at/diedamskopf culture The Walisgaden Snowpark Shuttle and the Uga All-Mtn-Line Shuttle will take you back to the starting point. www.snowparkdamuels.com www.facebook.com/

snowparkdamuels out dining well-being 26 ski!project – skiing courses & exercise coaching

Check out www.skiprojekt.at/methoden to see what this is all about!

Turning and floating, on the slopes Management: or through powder snow. That is Michael Widmer-Willam the motto of these skiing courses – He is a passionate skier, dance and ­including following a recovered performance artist and, as a ski injury. trainer, enjoys trying out new skiing techniques and movements. In his In these skiing workshops you workshops, he combines his many develop a dynamic, energy-saving years’ experience in teaching ­skiing skiing technique that is kind to your and his knowledge of the body and joints – according to your own indi- movement with the lightness of vidual needs. The special method dance. and the structure of the workshops Offers: Intensive workshops in ­skiing enable you to improve your ­skiing technique for all skill levels, deep in a quick, sustainable manner. snow courses, courses for ­returnees Complex sequences of movement following extended absences, needed for carving or skiing in deep ­injuries or physical weaknesses snow are conveyed and optimised by Services: means of simple, playful movements • 6-8 lesson programme and exercises to reinforce your body • constant video analysis awareness. • individualised skiing model • long-term, individual development planning please note: • personalised equipment The courses are held on specified consultancy dates. Booking is required. You • cultural trips in the region can only start on the first day (optional) of the course. Detailed informa- tion is available on: information & reservation www.skiprojekt.at ski!Projekt and in the programme brochure. M +43 (0)664 4205221 www.skiprojekt.at 27 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing family tips ski & freedom The conditions for off-piste skiing are ­perfect active winter since there is so much snow about. Skiing tours and – the more leisurely version – ­variation ­skiing are enjoying increasing popularity. culture dining out dining well-being 28 map of the area

5

4 9

3

8 13

7 1 2

10 11 12

6

The Bregenzerwald is famous for its We recommend that you only embark wide range of enjoyable skiing tours, on these tours in the ­company of comprising the gentle through to the the ski schools’ ­mountain and skiing more arduous. ­Following an ascent guides, or that you reserve one of the taking 2 to 5 hours on cross-country package deals. This way, you’ll safely skis and skins, swing down the mag- reach the ­loveliest places, and receive nificent slopes off the prepared pistes valuable tips on the way. and down into the ­valley. You can rent the appropriate equipment such information & skiing tour as skis and avalanche search equip- package ment from the local ski rental shops. www.bregenzerwald.at skiing tours 29

Tour Starting point Difference in Highest ski & board altitude (up): elevation

1 Brendler Lug Au 950 m 1,767 m

2 Portlahorn Damüls 400 m 2,010 m ski & freedom

3 Hirschberg Bizau 700 m 1,500 m

Schwarzen- 4 Hochälpele Kopf 450 m 1,464 m berg Skiing tours for beginners for Skiing tours

5 Feuerstätterkopf Sibratsgfäll 650 m 1,645 m xc skiing

6 Juppenspitze Schröcken 1,200 m 2,412 m

7 Üntschenspitze Schoppernau 1,150 m 2,135 m

8 Kanisfluh Au 1,250 m 2,044 m family tips

9 Winterstaude Egg 800 m 1,877 m Skiing tours for the advanced the advanced for Skiing tours 10 Hochkünzelspitze Schröcken 1,300 m 2,397 m active winter 11 Klemm via Salober Schröcken 2,300 m

12 Bockbachtaltour Warth 2,340 m

Off-piste ski routes ski Off-piste 13 Around Hoher Ifen Schoppernau 2,060 m culture dining out dining

recommended reading “Skitourenführer Bregenzerwald inkl. Großes Walsertal und Lechquellengebirge” by A. Kempf/ R. Kempf well-being published by Panico Alpinverlag (in German only) 30 skiing tours

Skiing tours for beginners Skiing tours for the advanced 1: brendler lug (1,767 m) 6: juppenspitze (2,412 m) The gentle, classic skiing tour close This skiing tour has perfectly to Au, with north-facing slopes and inclined and sunny slopes at higher glades is most fun in the powder altitudes. snow/new snow. Difference in altitude: 1,200 m Difference in altitude: 950 m Starting point: Schröcken, center of Starting point: car park of Au’s ­village village hall 7: üntschenspitze (2,135 m) 2: portlahorn (2,010 m) This tour, which covers lovely slopes Straightforward panorama tour across to the south west and the north east, the Damüls skiing area. is hidden away on Schoppernau’s Difference in altitude: 400 m impressive very own mountain. Starting point: Jägerstüble inn on Difference in altitude: 1,150 m the road between Oberdamüls and Starting point: Schoppernau, Bad Furkajoch Hopfreben inn

3: hirschberg (1,500 m) 8: kanisfluh (2,044 m) This tour takes you through ­ Dominating the entire Bregenzer- fantastic skiing terrain in an area wald, the mighty Kanisfluh – with ­formerly home to pistes. its steep north side sloping over Difference in altitude: 700 m 1,200 m – takes you by surprise with Starting point: Bizau, Hütten – an ­outstandingly lovely skiing tour car park/practice lift on its south side. Difference in altitude: 1,250 m 4: hochälpelekopf (1,464 m) Starting point: from Au, in This area is recommended particu- the ­direction of Damüls, across the larly for beginners or those wishing to ­Argenbach bridge (car park) enjoy a short afternoon tour. Difference in altitude: 450 m 9: winterstaude (1,877 m) Starting point: Gmeind, part of the It is close to Egg that the most-used village of Schwarzenberg route is located: despite its steep grassy slopes, it is used astoundingly 5: feuerstätterkopf (1,645 m) frequently. This lovely, popular tour takes you Difference in altitude: 800 m across gentle ski slopes, without any Starting point: Egg-Schetteregg, lift flat spots. car park Difference in altitude: 650 m Starting point: from Sibratsgfäll, 10: hochkünzelspitze (2,397 m) Alpenrose inn The Hochkünzelspite offers the ­experienced ski tourer magnificent runs in an alpine setting. Difference in altitude: 1,300 m Starting point: Schröcken, Land- steg bus stop, approx. 2 km to Bad Hopfreben skiing tours 31 ski & board Well supervised Date: daily, upon request Skiing in deep snow and ski tours are Duration: day tour, approx. 4–5 hours fascinating. However, skiing safety is Price per person: from € 60 frequently lacking, as is the economic information use of your own strength, or simply Markus Moosbrugger

self-confidence. The mountain and ski M +43 (0)664 3429465 ski & freedom guides are familiar with the local snow, www.mitmoses.at weather and avalanche conditions, and ensure an unforgettable day of touring. Mellau: taster ski tour Meeting point: office of Mellau ski ski!project skiing tours school These specific ski tour workshops Dates: 6 December 2019 to 19 April incorporate Feldenkrais units. The 2020, Fridays at 9 a.m. xc skiing objective is to simplify the sequences Duration: approx. 4 hours of movements in order to minimise Price per person: € 95 including the amount of effort required for the ­avalanche transceiver, excluding tour ascent and for skiing down the slopes. equipment The focus of these workshops is on the information & reservations interplay between movement, skiing by 4 p.m. the day before family tips and a relaxing experience in nature. Mellau ski school Offers: for all skill levels, for beginners T +43 (0)5518 20011 who are unsure of their condition or M +43 (0)664 3428979 ability to ski downhill, for returnees www.skischule-mellau.at (following injuries or long absences).

The snow sports school in Au-Schop- Schröcken: Ski tours for beginners and active winter pernau is a cooperation ­partner. Please experts alike note: fixed dates. Booking is essential. Meeting point: to be disclosed upon You can only start on the first day of booking the course. Dates: weekly, between December and information early April Michael Priesner Duration: tours with climbs between M +43 (0)676 7245641 1 ½ and 3 ½ hours culture www.skiprojekt.at Price for 2 persons: from € 130 including ­ equipment Damüls: Guided skiing tour information & booking Meeting point: Damüls ski school Schneesportschule Schröcken Date: 26 December 2019 – 16 April 2020 Hochkrumbach,

every ­Thursday at 10 a.m. Josef Staggl out dining information & booking M +43 (0)664 7575500 or the day before until 3 p.m. M +43 (0)664 2525200 Damüls ski school www.skischule-schroecken.com T +43 (0)5510 295 www.skischule-damuels.at Schwarzenberg: Guided ski tours Various destinations in the Bregenzer- Au-Schoppernau: Skiing tour with Moses wald and Arlberg region available well-being Meeting point: Ski and mountain guide information Markus Moosbrugger Skischule Schwarzenberg Schoppernau, Riese 238 M +43 (0)664 2214075 32 variation skiing

Off the pistes – out and about with experts

Variation skiing is the leisurely, enjoy- 12: bockbachtaltour able form of skiing off piste. Most Place: Warth – Steeg ascents are taken by lift, and then you Starting point: Wartherhorn cable ski off piste. car Ascent: Wartherhornsattel, approx. Here are 3 recommended routes. For 30 min., Wöstersattel, approx. 45 reasons of safety and orientation, we min. recommend that you only embark on Highest point: Rüfikopf 2,340 m these tours in the company of the ski Destination: Steeg 1,250 m schools’ mountain and skiing guides. Difference in altitude: approx. 1,800 m run Routes for variation skiers 11: klemm via salober 13: around hohen ifen Place: Warth – Schröcken – Lech Place: Schoppernau – Kleinwalsertal Starting point: Salober Express Starting point: Diedamskopf Ascent: Auenfeld-Sattel, Ascent: approx. 300 m approx. 20 min. Highest point: 2,060 m Highest point: Mohnenfluhsattel 2,300 m Destination: Schönenbach near Destination: Schröcken – ­Heimboden Bizau 1,270 m Difference in altitude: approx. Difference in altitude: approx. 2,000 m run 1,630 m run 33 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Leave your own tracks in the snow – in the Damüls-Mellau ski region Au-Schoppernau: Freeriding with Mellau: Freeride-terrain variation Moses skiing The objectives of the day are You take the Mellau cable car to the family tips ­effortless ascents and long runs with skiing area of Damüls-Mellau, where ski and mountain guide Markus guests ski off piste on a number of Moosbrugger. ­different routes under the supervi- Place: Schoppernau sion of a state-certified ski instructor. Meeting point: Schoppernau, Riese 238 Location: Damüls-Mellau skiing area

Date: daily, upon request Meeting point: ski school office active winter Duration: day tour, approx. 5-6 Mellau­ hours in total Dates: From 6 December 2019 to Price per person: from € 70 19 April 2020 every Thursday at 9 a.m. information Duration: 3 hours Markus Moosbrugger Minimum number of participants: M +43 (0)664 3429465 3 (max. 6) www.mitmoses.at Price per person: € 74 including culture ­avalanche search equipment Damüls: Freeride course (excluding lift pass) Meeting point: Damüls ski school information & booking Date: From 24 December 2019 to by 4 p.m. the day before 14 April 2020 every Tuesday­ at 10 a.m. Mellau ski school

information & booking T +43 (0)5518 20011 out dining the day before until 3 p.m. M +43 (0)664 3428979 Damüls ski school www.skischule-mellau.at T +43 (0)5510 295 www.skischule-damuels.at well-being 34 interesting information

Ascent Hirschberg, close to Bizau

Safety tips for off-piste skiing vorarlberg avalanche Please note that you are skiing at warning service your own risk! This brochure only Free use of the avalanche alarm contains suggested routes. ­service via fax, e-mail or the Internet: • Off-piste skiing is fun when www.vorarlberg.at/lawine you master the technique. The Avalanche information app: Bregenzer­wald ski schools offer www.snowsafe.at courses to this end. 24-hour recorded message: • The correct equipment and cloth- T +43 (0)5574 201 1588 ing are essential safety factors. • Anyone skiing off piste needs Respect your boundaries avalanche­ equipment (avalanche­ However, anyone out and about search equipment, probe, ava- enjoying the countryside needs to lanche shovel, First Aid kit) and keep in mind that it is also a very also needs to know how to use such sensitive habitat for plants and equipment! ­animals which is worth ­protecting. • Never set off too late. In ­winter, it Please don’t take any short-cuts starts getting dark at 4.30 p.m. through forest paths, since they • Never set off if it is snowing/foggy. are often used by wild game as a • The skiing and mountain guides ­refuge. Moreover, the edges of skis are familiar with the place and and can easily damage ­terrain and ensure that you safely the young forest. Observe the no-go reach your destination – and hunting areas and, if necessary, back home. choose a different tour destination. It is with this in mind that we also emergency telephone numbers appeal to you to respect preserva- (free of charge) tion and conservation areas and to • 112 European emergency number observe any restrictions. • 144 alpine emergencies 35 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

xc skiing family tips Cross-country skiing is very popular as an ­alternative to skiing or as a good way of ­recharging your batteries in the fresh air.

Especially when the cross-country ski runs active winter are as well looked-after as they are in the Bregenzerwald. culture dining out dining well-being 36 au-schoppernau

Village cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 50 km of classic cross-country ski Village cross-country ski run runs 13 km of skating runs length 13 km

altitude 850 m classification easy to difficult

preparation difference in altitude 85 m Mid-December until Easter itinerary ski trail fee This cross-country ski run takes Free for guests and locals in you through Au and Schoppernau Au-Schoppernau. with various connection points to other cross-country ski runs. cross-country skiing courses From Au-Argenzipfel, it takes Au-Schoppernau snow sports school you through Äuele to Schopper- T +43 (0)5515 2133 nau and through a forest to the Au-Schoppernau cross-country mountain pasture settlement of ski school, M +43 (0)677 61096022 Armengemach. Via the Bregenzer­ achsteg, you pass through ski rental “­paradise” and, across open fields, • Sport Gorbach, Au to Äuele forest. Via Kreuzgasse, T +43 (0)5515 4141-2 you arrive at the underpass next • Sport Fuchs, Au to the church bridge. After Reute T +43 (0)5515 2315 grazing meadow and Argenzipfel, • Sport Matt, Schoppernau you arrive at Kanisfluhloipe. T +43 (0)5515 4120 chances to stop off for a drink/food in Au-Schoppernau bezau-bizau- 37 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Circuit cross-country ski runs 20 km of classic cross-country ski runs The circuit 12 km of skating runs family tips length 12 km altitude 650 m classification preparation easy to intermediate Mid-December until Mid-March

difference in altitude 50 m active winter cross-country skiing courses Cross-country skiing and itinerary school The circuit takes you through Nordic Sport Park Sulzberg all three villages, and can be Ingrid Fink-Nöckler ­commenced and terminated at M +43 (0)664 5323102 any of the villages. www.kreativbewegen.at culture characteristic ski rental Scenic, charming and varied Sport Thomas, Bezau circuit.­ T +43 (0)5514 31441 chances to stop off for a

drink/food out dining ­Inns in Bezau, Bizau and Reuthe

tip

Cross-country ski trails online: well-being www.bregenzerwald.at/ langlaufloipen 38 damüls

Stofel alpine cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 11 km of classic cross-country ski runs Stofel alpine 5 km of skating runs cross-country ski run

altitude 1,500 – 1,700 m length 5 km

preparation classification Early December until mid April intermediate to difficult

cross-country skiing courses difference in altitude 80 m Damüls ski school T +43 (0)5510 295 itinerary Zimba inn – circuit around the ski rental Stofel high plateau – Zimba inn Madlener Sport, Damüls T +43 (0)5510 391 characteristic Circuit with an impressive Mani Sport, Damüls mountain­ panorama. M +43 (0)699 12109630 chances to stop off for a tip drink/food The free local bus takes cross-­ Berggasthof Sonnenheim, country skiers to the starts of the Gasthaus Glöckle ­cross-­country ski runs. hittisau 39 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Border country cross-country ski run cross-country ski runs 50 km of classic cross-country ski runs Border country ­cross-country 30 km of skating runs ski run family tips altitude 800 m – 1,040 m length approx. 70 km preparation classification December until end of March easy to intermediate active winter ski trail fee difference in altitude 240 m cross-country skiing courses itinerary • Ski school Hittisau-Sibratsgfäll Hittisau centre – Helmisau – M +43 (0)664 2143723 Dornbündt – Sippersegg – • Langlauf-Biathlon-Schule ­Biberstein – border with Nordic Sport Park Germany– start of the Balder- culture M +43 (0)664 5323102 schwang ski-hiking network – www.kreativbewegen.at return by bus or along the ­cross-country ski run ski rental • Sport Spettel, Hittisau characteristic

T +43 (0)5513 6341 An extensive cross-country skiing out dining • Sport Gotthard, Hittisau tour which can be shortened T +43 (0)5513 2260 according to wishes. • Jakobs Skishop, Hochhäderich T +43 (0)5513 8254-61 chances to stop off for a drink/food Inns in ­Balderschwang and Hittisau well-being 40 mellau-schnepfau

Cross-country ski run in Mellau, Hirschau, Schnepfau

cross-country ski runs 23 km of classic cross-country ski runs Cross-country ski run in Mellau,­ 20 km of skating runs Hirschau, Schnepfau

altitude 700 m length 10 km

preparation classification December until March easy

cross-country skiing courses difference in altitude 40 m Ski school Mellau T +43 (0)5518 20011 itinerary Car park of Mellau cable cars – ski rental Enge – Hirschau – Schnepfau • Sport Natter, Mellau ­centre (return the same route T +43 (0)5518 2262 or by bus) • Sport Broger, Mellau T +43 (0)5518 2240 characteristc Lovely route at the foot of the ­Kanisfluh through the Enge mountain pasture.

chances to stop off for a drink/food Inns in Mellau, M1 Mellaubahn valley station, Café Lässer in Schnepfau riefensberg-hochhäderich 41 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Hörmoos cross-country ski run cross-country ski runs 12 km of classic cross-country ski runs Hörmoos cross-country 4 km of skating runs ski run family tips altitude 1,300 m length 8.3 km preparation classification December until mid-April difficult active winter ski trail fee difference in altitude 151 m cross-country skiing courses itinerary Hochhäderich snow sports school Car park of the Hotel Timm Stade ­Hochhäderich – Hörmoos lake – T +43 (0)5513 8254-171 car park of the Hotel Hochhäderich www.skischule-hochhaederich.at culture characteristic ski rental The course takes you through the Jakobs Skishop, Hochhäderich sunny high plateau on the Hoch- T +43 (0)5513 8254-61 häderich. Those experienced in skating techniques can take a

detour to the Falkenhütte. out dining

chances to stop off for a drink/food Hörmoosalpe, Hochwies inn, Hotel Hochhäderich well-being 42 schwarzenberg

Fohramoos cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs 9.5 km of classic cross-country ski Fohramoos cross-country ski run runs length 9.5 or 6 km (large circuit), altitude 1,130 – 1,190 m 3.5 km (small circuit)

preparation classification Early December until Mid-March easy to intermediate

ski rental difference in altitude 60 m • Skishop Bödele Berghof Fetz itinerary M +43 (0)664 75036843 Start and end at the valley station www.skiboedele.at of Oberlose lift: from there, you go • Ski rental Bregenzerwald in a westerly direction through the (Hochälpele/Bödele) nature reserve of Fohramoos. Hochälpele ski lift, valley station M +43 (0)664 2312614 characteristic www.skiverleih-bregenzerwald.at Scenic and varied circuit through Natura 2000 and the nature reserve.

chances to stop off for a drink/food ­Berghof Fetz, Alpenhotel Bödele, Meierei sibratsgfäll 43 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Cross-country ski run between Sibratsgfäll and Schönenbach cross-country ski runs 25 km of classic cross-country ski runs Cross-country ski run between 2 km of skating runs Sibratsgfäll and Schönenbach family tips altitude 930 m length 18 km preparation classification Mid-December until early April intermediate active winter ski trail fee difference in altitude 150 m cross-country skiing courses itinerary Ski school Hittisau-Sibratsgfäll Krähenberg ski lift – walk to the M +43 (0)664 73086629 base of the cross-country ski run at the Bilgeri snack bar – along the ski rental Subersach as far as Vorsäß Schönen- culture Engelbert Dorner bach mountain pasture – return the T +43 (0)5513 2113 same route

characteristic A route for cross-country skiing

enthusiasts, not too technically out dining demanding. Particularly scenic route through the valley of the Subersach.

chances to stop off for a drink/food Bilgeri snack bar in Sibratsgfäll, well-being Jagd­gasthaus Egender, Schönenbach 44 sulzberg

Panorama cross-country ski run

cross-country ski runs biathlon facility 20 km of classic cross-country ski runs Nordic Sport Park 20 km of skating runs The direct connection to the West cross-country-ski rental ­Allgäu network of cross-country ski Nordic Sport Park runs ­provides the trained athlete with over 100 km of cross-country ski runs Panorama cross-country for all ­levels of proficiency. ski run

altitude 1,015 m length 6 km (classic and skating)

preparation classification December until 15 March easy to difficult

ski trail fee itinerary → page 45 Leave Oberdorf – continue in the direction of Hochsträß – circuit cross-country skiing courses (it is possible to turn off on to Cross-country biathlon school the Westallgäu network of cross-­ Nordic Sport Park Sulzberg country ski runs) Ingrid Fink-Nöckler M +43 (0)664 5323102 chances to stop off for a www.kreativbewegen.at drink/food Hochsträßstüble (closed on Mon) night-time cross-country skiing By floodlight every Mon to Fri between info 5 and 8.30 p.m. Part of the cross-coun- It doesn’t cost anything to ski on try skiing runs is served by a snow the Panoramaloipe, all other trails making system. in the Nordic Sport Park are sub- ject to charge. nordic sport park sulzberg 45 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Nordic Sport Park Sulzberg

Around 20 km of cross-country ski Nordic Day – courses and test runs for classic and skating tech- materials niques await in the Nordic Sport Park 4. Jänner 2020 family tips in Sulzberg. www.kreativbewegen.at

Selection of cross-country ski runs information • All cross-country ski runs are Tourismusbüro Sulzberg groomed for classic and skating T +43 (0)5516 2213-10

purposes. www.sulzberg-bregenzerwald.com active winter • The trails in the Nordic Sport Park Nordic Sport Park are subject to charge – also during M + 43 (0)664 1222258 the day. It doesn’t cost anything to use the Panorama Ski Trail that links to the Westallgäu network of Try out Biathlon cross-country ski routes. It is the combination of pulse load • Guests from Sulzberg staying three and precision, which makes this culture or more nights may use the runs discipline so unique. in the Nordic Sport Park (including Offer: night-time x-country skiing) free of Biathlon for individuals and charge. Tickets available from the groups from one to four units also tourist office upon presentation of in combination with cross-country

the guest card skiing or a small obstacle course. out dining • A 4-km circular route is illuminated Dates and prices: upon request by floodlights. information & booking Ingrid Fink-Nöckler prices Cross-country skiing and biathlon € 5 per day (incl.night-time cross- school country skiing) or € 65 per season Nordic Sport Park M +43 (0)664 5323102 well-being www.kreativbewegen.at 46 warth-schröcken

Around Kalbelesee

cross-country ski runs 17 km of classic cross-country ski runs Around Kalbelesee 4 km of skating runs length 2.5 km altitude 1,600 – 1,700 m classification easy preparation December until mid-April difference in altitude 0 m

cross-country skiing courses itinerary • Ski school Warth Salober car park – around T +43 (0)5583 3443 ­Kalbelesee – Salober car park • Ski school Salober-Schröcken T + 43 (0)5583 4259 600 characteristic • Schröcken snow sports school flat cross-country ski run, suitable T +43 (0)5519 271 or for beginners, in a sunny location M +43 (0)664 7575500 chances to stop off for a ski rental drink/food • Sport Schneller, Schröcken Mountain gastronomy at the T +43 (0)5519 201 ­valley station in the Salober • Sport Jug, Salober and Jägeralpe Ski Arena T +43 (0)5583 39827 • Sport Strobl, Hotel Lechtalerhof M +43 (0)676 845413200

dogs permitted 47 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

family tips family tips How about a ­lantern-lit ramble at dusk? Visits to the farm afford fascinating insights into the living environment of the farmers. active winter culture dining out dining well-being 48 kids’ programme

Tobogganing – a great pleasure

The Bregenzerwald boasts the best Village lifts for young skiers conditions for enjoyable family The clearly laid-out village lifts are ­holidays. Friendly hosts in the hotels, ideal for families: guest houses, holiday apartments Alberschwende: Übungslift und and on the farms offering holidays Schlepplift ensure the right setting for this. Bizau: Hütten rope tow Buch: Buch ski lifts Tobogganing with children Hittisau: Hittisberg ski lift Almost all towns and villages have Reuthe: Reuthe Baienberg ski lift one or several toboggan runs, many Sibratsgfäll: Krähenberg ski lift of which are illuminated in the even- Sulzberg: Sulzberg village lift, ing. This includes many runs which Hagenberg ski lifts children can ride alone, or on their parents’ toboggan. Toboggans are available for rent in many towns and villages. The starting points of Package deals on offer: several toboggan runs can be easily Kids’ Snow in the Bregenzerwald reached by lift (→ page 74). The special offer for kids between 3 and 6 years (born in Well-supervised in the ski schools 2014/2015/2016) incl. a ski pass The Bregenzerwald’s ski schools are and a 4-day skiing course for free. well-known for their ­child-friendly Bookable dates: programmes. You can find ­further 11 – 18 January 2020 information on selected offers in the 7 – 14 March 2020 chapter Ski and Board 14 – 21 March 2020 (→ page 5). 21 – 28 March 2020 information Bregenzerwald Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 2365 www.bregenzerwald.at kids’ programme 49 ski & board Andelsbuch – mini-bob race Au-Schoppernau – farm experience Mini-bob race on the practice slope Life on the farm has a magical appeal of the valley station of Andels- to children. They are allowed to stroke buch cable car (with adequate snow the animals and watch the farmer conditions). feed, care for and milk the animals.

Meeting point: Practice slope Meeting point: Church in Au, Rehmen ski & freedom Andelsbuch cable car Date: 31 December 2019 until 7 April Date: 2 ­January; 13, 20, 27 February, 2020: every Tuesday at 5.30 p.m. every Thursday at 4 p.m. Length: approx. 1 hour Duration: approx. 1 hour Price per person: free of charge Price per person: free of charge information & registration information & registration Tourist office Au-Schoppernau Tourist office Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5515 2288 xc skiing T +43 (0)5512 2565 www.au-schoppernau.at www.andelsbuch.at Au-Schoppernau – lantern-lit ramble Au-Schoppernau – Sheep Pen Wool Carrying brightly lit lanterns and Discover some fascinating facts accompanied by mascots “DIDI” and about large and small sheep in “BASTI”, the children ramble through family tips the old sheep pen: fragrant moun- Schoppernau. The lanterns can be tain hay in the hayloft, haymaking taken home, and burn brightly as a tools, wool processing, production reminder. of a ­fragrant sheep’s wool cushion, Meeting point: tourist information ­concluding with an exciting sheep office, Schoppernau

story. Dates: Friday 3 January, 8 January to 11 active winter Meeting point: Church in Au, March 2020, every Wednesday Rehmen at 5.30 p.m. Dates: Friday 27 December 2019, Duration: approx. 1 hour 2 January to 9 April 2020: every Price per person: free of charge Thursday at 4 p.m. information & registration Duration: approx. 1 ½ hours Bookings must be made by 12 p.m. Age: from 4 years Au-Schoppernau Tourismus culture Price per person: € 8 incl. sheep’s T +43 (0)5515 2495 wool cushion, drink and “sheep www.au-schoppernau.at biscuits” information & booking Booking by 5 p.m. on the previous

day out dining Au-Schoppernau Tourist Office T +43 (0)5515 2288 www.au-schoppernau.at well-being 50 kids’ programme

Bezau – lantern-lit walk to the Deerofo Egg-Großdorf – Lantern-lit ramble Cultural and historical walk by Particularly well suited for families: ­lantern light through Bezau with a romantic ramble into the silence of a stop at the “Deerofo”. The walk the night. The light of the lanterns, of ­concludes with a little drink at this the moon and the stars, make the out- lovingly restored barn that was once ing into a special experience. Guide used by the whole village as a drying Marianne relates stories on the way. chamber. Meeting point: Falken inn Meeting point: 8 p.m. at the foun- Date: End of December until the end tain in the village square (near Hotel of March: every Tuesday at 6 p.m. Gams) Length: approx. 1 hour Date: Every Wednesday, from end of Price per person: free of charge December 2019 to early April 2020 information & registration Duration: Approx. 1 hour Register by 4 p.m. on Monday Price per person: € 5 (children free) Tourist office Egg information & registration T +43 (0)5512 2426 Registration by noon www.egg-bregenzerwald.com Bezau Tourismus T +43 (0)5514 2295 Egg – Kuno Kinderkultur www.bezau-bregenzerwald.com (culture for children) KUNO stands for an adventurous Damüls – Bunny Disco kid’s programme in the middle of the Bunny – the ski-school mascot – joins Bregenzerwald. Once a month, KUNO the children in their party dances to invites both young and old to culture cool hits. at the highest level. KUNO is music, Meeting point: Bunny-Park theatre, dance, art, film and literature. (Kinderland) The events take place in Egg. Dates: From 27 ­December 2019 to Advance booking: tickets are avail- 17 April 2020 every Friday at 2.45 p.m. able from the KUNO advance book- information ing partners: Bregenzerwald Tour- Skischule Damüls ismus Egg, Tourismusbüro Hittisau T +43 (0)5510 295 und Au, Jöslar Andelsbuch, Witus www.skischule-damuels.at Bezau, Der Kleine Sagmeister Bregenz, Buchräume Ananas in Dornbirn and Damüls – indoor playground online. The “Spielhaus” with a 170-square- information & tickets metre indoor playground is par- www.kunokinderkultur.at ticularly ­popular with children and parents.­ Opening times: Daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Location: “Haus Alpenrose” multi- purpose building, House 137 information Damüls Tourismus T +43 (0)5510 620-0 www.damuels.travel kids’ programme 51 ski & board Egg – farm visit for young and old Mellau – Experience farm up close The Meusburger family welcomes Be there when the animals are fed and visitors to see their modern free- milked. The Bertsch farming ­family range stable. It’s a place where the along with its many animals looks animals feel happy and like being ­forward to welcoming you.

stroked. And, afterwards, interested Meeting point: Bertsch farm, ­ ski & freedom visitors will be able to take a look at Oberfeld 103 the cheese depot and purchase some Dates: mid December 2019 to mid of the products made at the farm. April 2020, every second Monday Meeting point: Sieban 72, 6863 (Dates on request) Egg-Großdorf Duration: approx. 1 hour Dates: every Saturday at 9.30 a.m. Price per person: free of charge between 28 December 2019 and the information & reservations xc skiing middle of March 2020 By 3 p.m. at Mellau Tourismus Price per person: € 4, children free T +43 (0)5518 2203 information & registration www.mellau.com Hilde Meusburger M +43 (0)664 6304073 Sulzberg – treasure hunt A treasure hunt – with or without family tips Hittisau – Building an igloo snowshoes, depending on the snow Armed with saws and shovels, guests conditions – guarantees fun and a bit try to copy the Inuits and build a of variety. Includes: an insight into winter-proof dwelling for the night. topography, the use of a compass and Dates: by agreement searching with the aid of a treasure

Meeting point: 9 a.m., Hittisau map. active winter village­ hall Dates: upon request Return: 5 p.m., or at around 10 a.m. Prices: 1 – 4 people € 150, the next day if the night is spent in € 7 per additional person (includ- the igloo ing a small treasure): excludes rental Price per person: upon request ­material for snowshoes information & registration Larger groups upon request Christoph Oberhauser information & reservations culture M +43 (0)664 7670520 Ingrid Fink-Nöckler www.bewegend.com Cross-country skiing and biathlon school Mellau – Lantern-lit ramble Nordic Sport Park The guests ramble through the snow- M +43 (0)664 5323102

covered wintry landscape with Hans www.kreativbewegen.at out dining at dusk. Meeting point: Tourist office Mellau Date: 12 December 2019 until 16 April 2020: every Thursday at 8 p.m. Length: approx. 1 ½ hours tip Price per person: free of charge Molke Metzler, Egg (→ page 95) information & registration Horse-drawn sleigh and carriage well-being Tourist office Mellau trips (→ page 71) T +43 (0)5518 2203, www.mellau.com 52 day trip tips

There is plenty for families to do Indoor swimming pools should the weather not play ball: Swimming pool in Vitalhotel ­Quellengarten in Lingenau Museums and exhibitions 25 m pool, kids’ pool inatura – nature show in Dornbirn information Touch, crawl in, try out, play and T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 experiment. www.quellengarten.at information T +43 (0)5572 23235-0 Dornbirn municipal pool www.inatura.at Family pool with toddler and parent area, tunnel slide, diving platform Schattenburg in Feldkirch information The medieval castle depicts life T +43 (0)5572 22687 ­during the age of chivalry. www.dasstadtbad.at information T +43 (0)5522 304-3510 Bregenz swimming pool www.schattenburg.at 25 m pool, kids’ pool with slide information Spielfabrik – indoor playground, T +43 (0)5574 44242-0 Dornbirn www.stadtwerke-bregenz.at 2,000 m² indoor playground for games, letting off steam, climbing, Aquaria adventure pool in Oberstaufen racing around and generally leaping (Germany) about. Family swimming pool with water information slides, diving platforms and much T +43 (0)5572 408840 more www.spielfabrik.at information T +49 (0)8386 9313-0 Zeppelin Museum in Friedrichshafen www.aquaria.de (Germany) The history and technology of Climbing hall aeronautics. K1 climbing hall, Dornbirn information 2,000 m² of climbing area indoors, T +49 (0)7541 3801-0 400 m² of boulder area, 600 m² www.zeppelin-museum.de ­outside area, climbing courses, taster courses information T +43 (0)5572 394810 www.k1-dornbirn.at 53 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

active winter family tips There are various ways to explore the winter landscapes. Hiking and tobogganing, for exam- ple. Or guided snow shoe tours. By horse-drawn sleigh or horse-drawn carriage or being pulled active winter along by a team of huskies. culture dining out dining well-being 54 winter hiking

View of the Niedere, close to Andelsbuch

There are plenty activities for those notes on safety whose winter enjoyment is found • Stick to the signposted hiking away from the piste. Winter hiking paths (pink signposts). paths guide you through picturesque • Taking short steps and maintain- landscapes and to lovely viewpoints. ing an even pace going uphill save your strength, and go easy on the Tips for winter hikers joints going downhill. We have compiled several tips for • Slightly bending your upper body your hikes through the snow: make forwards when going downhill sure that you have the right equip- reduces the danger of slipping. ment with you, such as adequate, • Take plenty of drinks with you: it is waterproof footwear (e.g. climbing also important to drink even if you boots) and warm outerwear. ­Further are not thirsty. useful items include: headgear, • Ask your hosts about the weather gloves, snow goggles or sunglasses, forecast. Fog and bad weather can sun screen. “Shoe chains” prevent set in surprisingly quickly. Turn slipping on ice and snow: they are back in good time rather than risk- available from shoe shops and sport ing getting into danger. As a winter shops. Sticks are also helpful. hiker (or a summer hiker), you hike at your own risk. signposts Winter hiking paths throughout the whole of the Bregenzerwald are clearly signposted in an easily visible­ pink. recommended reading

“Vorarlberg Winterwanderungen”­ by Helmut Tiefenthaler, ­published by Tyrolia Verlag (in German only) winter hiking 55 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Through the open landscape close to Sulzberg

Negrelli’s church and endless views – starting point Sulzberg mountain path Sulzberg-Schönenbühl, Hotel Linde From Vitalhotel Linde, Schönen- bus stop family tips bühl (820 m), a cleared agricultural culture on the route path, or, if snow is plentiful, a ­hiking As the “village on the mountain”, piste, leads to the mountain farms the location of Sulzberg in ­Vorarlberg in Unterköhler: from there, you gives it a very special quality of take a flattened hiking path to the its own. The parish church in the

Oberköhler plot of land at 985 m, Empire style is exceptional. It was active winter then you follow a forest path to the built in 1828/29 by Alois Negrelli, the approach road on the sunny side to designer of the Suez Canal. Sulzberg, which you then follow on characteristic past the parish church to Sulzberg Scenic mountain path on mainly ­village square (1,013 m) with end- ­flattened hiking paths less views across the Bregenzer­wald. chances to stop off for On the way back, you pass the sports a drink/food culture field in Buch, then take the hiking Hotel Linde (Schönenbühl), Sulzberg piste back to the Hotel Linde. Ochsen inn, Alpenblick inn and Adler inn in the center of the village, Bäckerei Alber (bakery) dining out dining

Difference in altitude: up: 190 m/ well-being down: 190 m Total hiking time: 2 ½ hours 56 winter hiking

Out and about on the Hochhäderich

Across the upland moor – starting point the Hochhäderich circuit Hochhäderich car park The route follows almost completely culture on the route flattened hiking trails through the The cross-border circuit connects mountain valley basin between the the Bregenzerwald with Oberallgäu, Nagelfluh ridges of Hochhäderich i.e. Vorarlberg with Bavaria. Between and Kojen-Fluh. It takes you from the the approach road and the Moos alp, Hochhäderich car park (1,227 m) across the blanket of snow conceals the the Austrian-German border, and ­Kojenmoos, an upland moor which takes you up to the plateau of the Hör- has been widely preserved and which moos alp (1,270 m). From there, you go is protected. The Riefensberg locals downwards for a while to the Hoch- used to cut peat here, and ­convey wies alp (1,230 m), then to the Glutg- it into the valley via a material schwanden alp (1,200 m) and finally ropeway. back to the starting point via the Moos characteristic alp (1,224 m). Lovely mountain path in the alp area of the Vorderwald chances to stop off for a drink/food Hotel Hochhäderich, Hörmoos alp, Hochwies alp, Glutgschwanden alp, Moos alp

Difference in altitude: up: 70 m/ down: 70 m Total hiking time: 2 ½ hours winter hiking 57 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Around the village of Hittisau

A circuit with a view – starting point around the village of Hittisau Village hall in Hittisau From the centre of the village culture on the route family tips (790 m), you follow a flattened With over 100 alps – making it ­hiking path along the cross-country the ­village with the most alps ski run until you reach the Brand in ­Austria! – Hittisau has a long plot of land. Cross the road, where ­tradition in the art of alpine dairy a path takes you up to Bütscheln ­farming, and was one of the first

(860 m). Via scenic hillside locations, centres for full-fat cheese making active winter you follow a flattened winter hiking in Vorarlberg. The route takes you path to the part of the village called right past the Alpine Dairy Farm- Korlen. From here, take in the lovely ing Museum in Hittisau. Also worth views of Hittisau as you return to the a visit is the Women’s Museum in starting point. ­Hittisau. (→ page 90) characteristic A gentle walk with lovely views culture chances to stop off for a drink/food Hittisau dining out dining

Difference in altitude: up: 110 m/ well-being down: 110 m Total hiking time: approx. 1 ½ hours 58 winter hiking

Brüggelekopf in Alberschwende

On the Brüggelekopf in Alberschwende starting point The winter hiking trail leads from Alberschwende, village square the village square over sunny slopes culture on the route to Lanzen and Tannen. It takes hik- The Lorenapass is an old pass into the ers through a section of forest to Bregenzerwald. It was the preferred Müselbach and then finally to the link to the Rhine Valley from the Parzelle Kaltenbrunnen above Egg. ­Middle Ages to the middle of the The trail continues through the 19th century. ­holiday home complex and then characteristic along a partly well-trodden forest A panoramic hike on partly well-trod- path to Brüggelekopf. Beautiful views den and partly prepared winter hik- of Lake Constance and the Bregenz- ing trails up to the local mountain erwald mountains may be enjoyed that is the Brüggelekopf. from the top of the mountain. The chances to stop off for way back is the same or a bit shorter a drink/food along the toboggan run. Alpengasthof Brüggele, Gasthaus Alpenrose (Kaltenbrunnen), inns in Alberschwende

It’s also good to know that toboggans are available to hire at the Alpen- gasthof Brüggele during opening hours so that visitors can ride down on a toboggan.

Difference in altitude: up: 463 m/ down: 463 m Total hiking time: 4 ¼ hours winter hiking 59 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

On a country lane in Andelsbuch

Architecture and wide vistas in starting point Andelsbuch Andelsbuch tourist office The trip starts at the Andelsbuch tour- culture on the route family tips ist office. The route towards the Par- The trades in the Bregenzerwald zelle Wirth leads past modern residen- region catches attention across bor- tial buildings and large stately farms. ders. The Werkraumhaus is often the It continues on a country lane along venue for interesting exhibitions, the edge of the Andelsbuch field to the guided tours and presentations

slopes of the Bregenzer Ach valley. And of innovative work in the trades. active winter then it returns to the village centre (→ page 82) above the dam past the power station characteristic that was built during the Art Nouveau Relaxing walk around Andelsbuch period (opened in 1908). chances to stop off for a drink/food Gasthof Löwen, Konditorei Künz (bakery), Pizzeria La Montanara, culture Werk­raumhaus, Jöslar, Liss Bar dining out dining

Difference in altitude: up: 28 m/ well-being down: 28 m Total hiking time: 1 ¼ hours. 60 winter hiking

Bödele close to Schwarzenberg

Panorama hike – starting point Bödele-Schwarzenberg Bödele, bus stop at the Hotel Berghof From the bus stop on the Bödele Fetz (1,140 m), take a short walk along culture on the route the road to Schwarzenberg where It was on the Bödele, close to Losen you pick up the winter hiking path. pass, an ancient crossing into the Cross the pistes of the Hochälpele Rhine Valley, that Otto Hämmerle, an lift, hike through alpine forests to industrialist from Dornbirn, erected the Hochälpele alp /Niederälpele a countryside summer resort. After (1,250 m, extensive views across the Arlberg, the Bödele is the second the Bregenzerwald) and continue birthplace of Vorarlberg skiing (in to ­Lustenau hut (1,250 m, chance to 1903/1904 a ski jump was built, and take a detour to the Bregenz hut). the first ski race was held. In 1907, From Lustenau hut, take a scenic the first ski lift in the world was built path across the Klausberg mountain here). pasture down into Schwarzenberg characteristic (695 m). Hike into the valley on wide-tracked winter paths chances to stop off for a drink/food Bödele, Lustenau hut, Bregenz hut, Schwarzenberg

Difference in altitude: up: 120 m/ down: 570 m Total hiking time: 3 hours winter hiking 61 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Alp landscape, Schetteregg

Where cattle graze in the summer – starting point Schetteregg circuit Schetteregg car park The entire route follows flattened culture on the route family tips ­hiking trails. It takes you from Eggatsberg and Hammeratsberg are ­Schetteregg (1,066 m) to the alpine two cooperative mountain pastures. pasture area of Eggatsberg and They are collective property, whereas ­Hammeratsberg, with the lovely the huts are private property. The Bregenzerwald mountain ­pasture cattle are brought here for several

huts. You soon arrive at the weeks each spring and autumn, the active winter Untere Falz alp, where you get lovely milk is processed into butter and views of the ­southern mountains cheese in the collective’s own dairy. of ­Bullerschkopf and ­Winterstaude During the summer, the pastures are (1,877 m). The route now takes you up mowed. The Falz alps are extensive to the Obere Falz alp and ­continues dairy alps. into the Ochsenhof alp area. Your characteristic return trip is rewarded with lovely Varied circuit through the peaceful culture views of Schetteregg and the foreland mountain pasture and alp area of the Bregenzerwald. chances to stop off for a drink/food Schetteregg, “Leo’s hut” dining out dining

Difference in altitude: up: 180 m/ well-being down: 180 m Total hiking time: 2 ½ hours 62 winter hiking

The “Living on a slant” station – Georunde Rindberg in Sibratsgfäll

Sibratsgfäll – Georunde Rindberg starting point The tour brings you closer to the Felber’s leaning house power of Mother Nature, letting destination you experience it for yourself: in Alpenrose inn May 1999, the mountainsides in the culture on the route plot moved inexorably. The major Eight stations: Felber’s leaning ­incident left behind deep scars. house – The moved house – Living On the landscape as well as on the on a slant – Not quite ­perpendicular – ­spirit of the village. The ­stations The leaning fir tree – The demolition of the Georunde Rindberg trace – St Mary’s Chapel – Alpenrose inn the ­happenings, ­communicate chances to stop off for interesting information and ­provide a drink/food insights into the way the ­inhabitants Alpenrose inn of Sibratsgfäll dealt with the situation. Info: The trail ist not groomed, the use Felber’s leaning house is a very of snowshoes is recommended. ­special experience and conveys to the visitors the physical forces of nature.

Difference in altitude: up: 130 m/ down: 130 m Trail category: separate signposting Total hiking time: approx. 1 hour

information www.bewegtenatur.at winter hiking 63 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Mountain pasture settlement, Schönenbach

To the loveliest mountain pasture – starting point Sibratsgfäll-Schönenbach Car park at Krähenberg ski lift If you take the bus, you must first culture on the route family tips take the road or follow the ­flattened Schönenbach is one of the loveliest, winter hiking path down to the largest mountain pasture settlements car park in Krähenberg (approx. in the whole of the Bregenzerwald. 30 ­minutes). From the Krähenberg It was mentioned for the first time car park, the road descends steeply in 1491, comprises over 25 huts

to Bilgeri’s snack bar in Krähenberg. and one chapel. Cattle graze on the active winter The flattened winter path starts ­mountain pasture before and after here (keep on the cross-country the alp period. During the summer, ski run). ­Crossing a narrow gorge the pastures are mowed. In the spring with impressive views down to the and autumn, the milk is processed ­Subersach is a lovely experience. into butter and cheese in a collective The valley soon reveals itself, and alpine dairy. the beautifully located mountain characteristic culture pasture ­settlement of Schönenbach Wild and romantic trail through the (1,025 m) is in front of you. Subersach gorge chances to stop off for a drink/food Sibratsgfäll, Bilgeri’s in Krähenberg,

Jagdgasthaus Egender, Schönenbach out dining

Difference in altitude: up: 200 m/ down: 200 m Total hiking time: from Krähenberg car park 3 ½ hours, well-being from the centre of Sibratsgfäll 4 ½ hours 64 winter hiking

Chapel in the mountain pasture settlement of Boden, close to Au

Walk up, toboggan down – starting point Bergkristall hut in Au Au, village hall From Au (800 m), a perfectly culture on the route ­prepared path takes you along the The Boden mountain pasture, at northern edge of the Lug, mainly an altitude of 1,200 m, is a rural through a forest, up into the ­settlement with a chapel. The land is ­Dürrenbachtal to the idyllically ­collective property, whereas the huts located Boden mountain pasture. are private property. This is where This is also the location of the Berg- the farmers come with their cattle kristall hut located at an altitude of for several weeks before and after over 1,200 m. This tranquil, beauti- the summer. The Boden mountain ful mountain valley is surrounded ­pasture is one of the largest alpine by the impressive, steeply rising rock dairy pastures in the Bregenzerwald. massifs of the Zitterklapfenstock characteristic (2,403 m). You descend the same way. Rewarding hike in a tranquil, remote When the conditions are right, it is a mountain valley good idea to take along a sledge for chances to stop off for the descent into the valley. a drink/food Au, Bergkristall hut (closed on Mondays)

Please contact the tourist ­information office in Au-Schoppernau for the conditions for sledging. T +43 (0)5515 2288

Difference in altitude: up: 420 m/ down: 420 m Total hiking time: 3 ½ hours winter hiking 65 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Winter hiking in Damüls, Stofel

On ancient Walser trails – starting point the Damüls alpine circuit Tourist office Damüls From Damüls (1,425 m), you ­follow culture on the route family tips the path towards Oberdamüls and Damüls is one of the first after the Gasthaus Glöckle ­continue ­documented Walser settlements in on the fully prepared ­valley path ­Vorarlberg (enfeoffment with Uga next to the cross-country ski run alp in 1313, and with “Tamülls” alp in as far as the Unterdamüls. Then up 1326). There is documentary evidence

the mountain to the Gasthaus Jäger- of its own parish church dating back active winter stüble (1,614 m). From here, a moun- to 1382. The late Gothic church (1484) tain path takes you up to an altitude has a remarkable interior such as of approx. 1,700 m (views as far as frescoes from around 1490. the Rätikon), past the Oberdamüls characteristic alp (1,667 m) and to Oberdamüls. A marvellous mountain circuit at From Hotel Alpenstern, you walk an altitude of over 1,400 m with a along the road back to where you unique view of the mountains culture started. chances to stop off for a drink/food Gasthaus Glöckle, Gasthof Jäger- stüble, Berggasthof Sonnenheim, Hotel Alpenstern dining out dining

Difference in altitude: up: 290 m/ well-being down: 290 m Total hiking time: approx. 3 hours 66 winter hiking

Körbersee panorama

To the hotel at the lake – starting point Hochtannbergpass – Körbersee Hochtannberg pass, bus stop Salober Take the signposted winter hiking or Hotel Adler trail that’s close to the road from the characteristic Hochtannbergpass (1,676 m) Gentle ramble at altitudes above past the frozen Kalbelesee lake and 1,600 m on prepared hiking paths the Körberkreuz. From there chances to stop off for take a considerable hike up to the a drink/food Witelesattel (1,750 m) and then down Valley station of the Salober-Jet in to the Hotel Körbersee (1,665 m). the Salober Ski Arena, Berghotel If the snow conditions are good, it Körbersee is worth following this up by tak- ing another walk around the ­frozen Körbersee (voted Austria’s most beautiful place in 2017). If you take the right piste on the way back too, you will enjoy a circuit back to Salober-Hochtannbergpass.

Difference in altitude: up: 90 m/ down: 90 m Total hiking time: approx. 2 hours snow-shoe hikes 67 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Out and about with the experts

In many towns and villages, hiking and Au-Schoppernau – panoramic mountain guides take guests on snow- evening tour with snowshoes and shoe tours. toboggan family tips Guests travel by cable car to the Au-Schoppernau – Evening panorama middle station, where the snow- tour with snowshoes and sledges shoe trip to the Neuhornbachhaus The cable car takes you to the mountain (150 m difference in altitude up and station, from where you walk downhill in down) starts. An exciting toboggan

snow shoes to Diedamssattel,­ continue ride takes everyone back to Schop- active winter through the lovely Haldental, and walk pernau (900 m difference in alti- uphill via the Neuhornbachjoch to the tude and 5 km downhill run). Neuhornbachhaus. The trip back into the Meeting point: Diedamskopf cable valley passes the Käsker inn towards the car, valley station middle station and then, from there, visi- Dates: every Monday, 3.30 p.m. tors take the cable car back into the valley. Duration: approx. 4 hours Meeting point: Au-Schoppernau snow Price per person: € 40 incl. snow- culture sports school, next to the valley station shoes, toboggan and head lamps, of the cable car excl. cable car ticket Date: every Thur (Alternative date: Fri) Minimum age for children: 8 years at 9.30 a.m. information & registration Length: approx. 6 hours incl. breaks Markus Moosbrugger

Price per person: from € 75 ­depending M +43 (0)664 3429465 out dining on the number of participants www.mitmoses.at (incl. cable car ticket, snow shoes and toboggan). Minimum number of participants: 5 information & registration until Wednesday 3 p.m. Snow sports school Au-Schoppernau well-being M +43 (0)5515 2133 www.schneesportschule-­ bregenzerwald.at 68 snow-shoe hikes

Au-Schoppernau – Kanis snowshoe tour Bizau – Winter landscapes The bus departs for Mellau at 10 a.m.; Konrad Feurstein, who is the hiking The guests will be taking the cable car guide on this tour, reveals special to Roß­stelle where they leave the ski insights and vistas. area behind them to walk past Alpe Meeting point: village square Kanis to Alpe Wurzach. Descent via Date: 30 December 2019 until 16 March Öberle and Auer Ried back to Au. The 2020: every Monday at 1.30 p.m. walk leads 280 metres uphill and 800 Length: approx. 3 hours metres downhill. Route: 8.5 kilometres. Price per person: free Meeting point: 9.45 a.m. Bergbahnen Minimum number of participants: 4 Diedamskopf (cable car), valley station information & registration Date: Every Tuesday Konrad Feurstein Return: Approx. 4 p.m. M +43 (0)664 6324537, www.bizau.at Price per person: € 60, incl. snowshoes and poles, excl. bus and cable car ticket Egg-Schetteregg – information & registration mountain pasture landscape Markus Moosbrugger The guided hike commences in M +43 (0)664 3429465 Schetteregg,­ which lies in a tranquil www.mitmoses.at side valley. The hike takes you to two mountain pasture settlements. Bezau – Baumgarten high-altitude hike Place: Egg-Schetteregg The Bezau cable car takes you to the Meeting point: Hotel Schetteregger mountain station: from there, Pius Hof takes you to the Niedere Höhe. It’s pos- Date: every Wednesday at 10.15 a.m. sible to descend by toboggan to the Length: approx. 2 hours middle station. Price per person: € 15 (including snow Meeting point: Valley station of shoe rental) Bezau cable car information & registration Date: every Friday at 10 a.m. until Tuesday at 4 p.m. Length: approx. 2 hours Tourist office Egg, T +43 (0)5512 2426 Price per person: Free guided tour, www.egg-bregenzerwald.com excluding rental fee for snowshoes and sledges as well as the ascent and Hittisau – snow shoe tour by the light of descent with the Bezau cable car the full moon in the Lecknertal information & registration Out and about on snow shoes by the Tourist office Bezau light of the full moon in the Lecknertal­ T +43 (0)5514 2295 – suitable for the moonstruck not wish- www.bezau-bregenzerwald.com ing to spend such a night at home. Meeting point: Hittisau, Village well Dates: 10 January, 8 February, 9 March 2020, at 8 p.m. Duration: approx. 1 ½ – 2 hours Price per person: € 25 (including snow tipp shoes, sticks) Sibratsgfäll – Rindberg geological information & registration tour (→ p. 62) Helga Rädler, M +43 (0)664 5793566 [email protected] snow-shoe hikes 69 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Snow shoe tour by the light of the full moon Hittisau – snow-shoe hike into the Mellau – adventure hike on snowshoes sunset with Erwin Guided tour into the snow-covered Erwin Kohler, who is the ­winter family tips landscape. ­hiking guide with the expert Meeting point: Hittisau village hall ­knowledge on this trip, accompanies Dates: December to April the group through the idyllic, quiet Every Monday between 2.30 and 4 p.m. and wildly romantic Mellental. The Return between 5 and 7 p.m. trip ends at the “Vorsäß Dös” to take

Price per person: upon request in its winter slumber and to enjoy the active winter information & registration small meal that awaits in the rustic Christoph Oberhauser Döser Hütte (alpine hut). M +43 (0)664 7670520 Meeting point: 10 a.m. at the Mellau www.bewegend.com cable car’s valley station Dates: every Wednesday between 18 Hittisau-Riefensberg – snowshoe taster December 2019 and 8 April 2020 tour Duration: approx. 4 hours culture Comfortable snowshoe walk into the Price per person: € 55 incl. snow- sunset in the idyllic Hochhäderich shoes, guided tour and meal region. information & registration Meeting point: Hochhäderich car park until Monday 4.30 p.m. Dates: December to April, every Tues- Mellau Tourismus

day at 4.45 p.m. T +43 (0)5518 2203 out dining Duration: Approx. 1.5 to 2 hours www.mellau.com Price per person: On inquiry information & registration Jakobs Skishop M +43 (0)664 9141095 T +43 (0)5513 825461 well-being 70 snow-shoe hikes

Schröcken – evening hike, the quiet way Duration: approx. 2 hours This tour takes you off the beaten Price per person: € 25 (including snow track, through unspoilt nature on the shoes) Hochtannberg. information & registration Meeting point: Tourist office Schröcken the day before until 4 p.m. Date: every Tuesday at 5 p.m. Skischule Schwarzenberg Length: approx. 2 hours M +43 (0)664 2214075 Price per person: € 15 www.skischule-schwarzenberg.at information & registration Alpinschule Schröcken, Josef Staggl Sulzberg – snow-shoe hike and M +43 (0)664 7575500 orientation www.alpinschule-schroecken.at Orientation hike over snow-covered meadows and through the forest. Schröcken – to the loveliest destina- Meeting point: cross-country biathlon tions in the area of Hochtannberg school, Nordic Sport Park Off the beaten track, the tour takes you Dates: upon request. at a leisurely pace through the winter Minimum number of participants: 4 landscape. Duration: approx. 2 hours Meeting point: In front of the sports Price per person: € 30 plus rented shop Jug am Salober equipment Dates: December to March, every information & booking ­Thursday, upon prior booking only Ingrid Fink-Nöckler Duration: approx. 2 ½ – 3 hours Cross-country biathlon school Price per person: € 25 M +43 (0)664 5323102 information & registration www.kreativbewegen.at Alpinschule Schröcken, Josef Staggl M + 43 (0)664 7575500 oder +43 (0)664 2525200 www.alpinschule-schroecken.at Damüls – walk by the light of storm lanterns with the mountain rescue Schwarzenberg – snow-shoe hiking in service the nature reserve Members of the Damüls staff Tour guide Daniel takes his guests of the mountain rescue service through the nature reserve “Fohra­ accompany guests on a 45-min- moos” at the Bödele – an exten- ute walk by the light of storm lan- sively intact upland moor featuring terns through the snow-covered bog forests. Upon request, he gladly ­mountain village. ­combines the snow-shoe tour with a Times: Every Monday at 8.45 p.m., stop for refreshments in a skiing hut from 4 January to 6 April 2020 on the Bödele. Meeting point: Uga valley station, Minimum number of participants: 4 Kirchdorf at the tourist office and Place: Bödele/Schwarzenberg Oberdamüls car park Meeting point: Schwarzenberg skiing information school, Weißtanne 375 Damüls Tourismus Time: 9 a.m. every ­Wednesday T +43 (0)5510 620-0 between early December and mid- www.damuels.travel March, further dates on request horse-drawn sleigh and carriage trips 71 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Out and about on the Hochhäderich

Being pulled along by strong horses and wrapped in a warm blanket Franzpeter Vögel on a horse-drawn sleigh or horse- M +43 (0)664 3780733 family tips drawn carriage is a great way to glide ­elegantly across the winter landscape. Lingenau Wendelin Stöckler, Andelsbuch M +43 (0)664 8690126 Elmar Metzler, M +43 (0)664 1032778

Mellau active winter Au-Schoppernau Raimund Dietrich, T +43 (0)5518 2164 Mathias Erath, T +43 (0)5515 2298 or M +43 (0)676 9543361 Franz-Josef Dünser, T +43 (0)5515 2295 Gotthard Simma, M +43 (0)664 1155766 Jakob Rusch, T +43 (0)5515 2532 Jakob Lingg, T +43 (0)5515 2928 Riefensberg Peter Erath, M +43 (0)664 5140834 Steinhauser family, M +43 (0)664 4122915 culture Bezau Christoph Moosbrugger, Schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5514 2901 Josef Schneider, T +43 (0)5512 4382

Damüls Krumbach

Alfons Bischof, M +43 (0)664 3382257 Klaus Mennel, M +43 (0)664 1312345 out dining

Egg-Schetteregg Sulzberg Schneider family, M +43 (0)664 3744794 Baldauf family, M +43 (0)664 9319896

Hittisau Michael Schelling, M +43 (0)664 3037239 well-being 72 out and about with animals

Dog sleigh tours in Warth-Schröcken

Travel through the wintry land- scape on a husky-drawn sleigh – an Hiking with dogs ­adventure for the dog and budding musher alike. Dogs must be kept on a leash in the entire area: Husky trail Au, Bezau, Bizau, Damüls, Langen­ Following the welcoming of the egg, Langen (Fighting dogs), ­huskies, the sledges are divided Riefens­berg, Schoppernau, up, the dogs are harnessed and the Schwarzenberg, Sibratsgfäll ­commands for the dogs are learned. Dogs must be kept on a leash in After a short trial run, off you go into certain areas: the terrain. Egg, Hittisau, Schröcken Trails: Körbersee, Jägeralpe, Dogs do not need to be kept on Hochtannbergpass (Warth- a leash: Schröcken); Gräsalp, Grunholz Alberschwende, ­Andelsbuch, (Au-Schoppernau) , Lingenau, ­Krumbach, Duration: approx. 1 ½ to 4 hours, ­Langen, Mellau, Reuthe, depending on the trail ­Schnepfau, Sulzberg, Warth Prerequisite: sporting ability of the mushers and a great love of dogs public buses Price: from € 300 for two persons Dogs must be muzzled and on information & registration a leash. A fare is payable for the Husky & Co, Marc Van Landeghem dog. M +43 (0)664 2407422 www.huskytouren.at nagelfluhkette nature park 73 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Out and about with the nature park rangers

A magnificent cultural landscape, Out and about with the ranger awarded the much-coveted designa- At first glance, the snow-covered tion “nature park”, developed on the slopes and mountain forests of the family tips interface between Bregenzerwald nature park look pristine. Upon closer and Allgäu over the course of ­several inspection, the tracks left behind ­centuries. Today, 15 communities by black grouse, mountain rabbits, (eight of which are in the Bregenzer- chamoix, indicate that sensitive ani- wald), are involved in the first cross- mals have their habitat here. Taking

border park between Austria and a snowshoe hike accompanied by a active winter Germany.­ . ranger from the nature park hones your senses for the animal kingdom Alpine meadows with 290 differ- and the mountains of the nature park. ent species of plant, valuable upland moors, forests of white firs and ravine Tours: forests and an alp density unmatched Duration: 4 to 5 hours anywhere else in Austria are charac- Meeting point: To be announced at culture teristics of the nature park. A con- registration necting element is the impressive Price per person: Free of charge Nagelfluh range, which crosses the Number of participants: Min. 5 to nature park from the west to the east. max. 15 people Great differences in altitude, geologic From Lecknertal towards Koppachstein

diversity, sustainable alp farming – Thursday, 30 January 2020 out dining all of this resulted in the creation Registration until 27 January of a large number of various living Through the forest onto the Renkknie environments on a relatively small Wednesday, 26 February 2020 surface. Registration until 24 February During the winter, the easily acces- sible mountains in the nature park information & registration are an ideal destination for snowshoe anmeldung@naturpark-nagel- well-being hikers, backcountry skiers and lovers fluhkette.eu of nature. www.nagelfluhkette.info 74 tobogganing

It is not only children that take great ** Hinterargenzipfel, Au pleasure in visiting the natural Length: 870 m ­toboggan runs that Bregenzerwald ** Godlachen, Au has to offer! Merry groups steering Length: 2.9 km their toboggans into the valley are ** Gschwend, Schoppernau particularly abundant in the evening. Length: 1.5 km Toboggan rental: Alberschwende • Sport Fuchs, Au, T +43 (0)5515 2315 **Brüggelekopf Tannerberg www.sportfuchs.com Walking time: 60 min • Sport Gorbach, Au The walk starts in Dreßlen at the T +43 (0)5515 4141-1, www.gorbach.at ­Tannerberg baby ski-lift – 400 metres • Sport Matt, Schoppernau above Hotel Engel. T +43 (0)5515 4120, www.matt.at Length: 4 km Toboggan rental & Information: Bezau Alpengasthof Brüggele * Gschwend T +43 (0)5579 4391 Illuminated toboggan run daily M +43 (0)664 9750855 until 11 p.m. Information about when the Length: 1.7 km ­toboggan run is open: ** Baumgarten-Sonderdach www.winterrodeln.org (ascent by cable car) Length: 3 km Au-Schoppernau Toboggan rental: * Snow-tubing run at Bezau cable car , T +43 (0)5514 2254 Alpen-Hotel Post in Au with moving walkway Bizau Snow tubing rental: * Escha Tourist office Au Length: 1.2 km T +43 (0)5515 2288 The bottom section of the toboggan * Toboggan lift Grunholz, Au run is illuminated every Tuesday, Length: 650 m Wednesday, Friday and Saturday until On special toboggans which can 9 p.m. be rented at the valley station, * Bildbühel you take the ski tow up the moun- Length: 50 m tain. ­Tobogganing in the evening: ­Wednesday and Friday, 7 to 10 p.m. Damüls Toboggan rental at the Grunholz lift. *** Uga (ascent by the Uga Express) * Lebernau pasture, Au Illuminated toboggan run, Length: 500 m ­Wednesday and Friday 7.30 to 9.30 * Lisse, Au p.m. Ascents are not covered by the Length: 750 m 3-valley ski pass. Length: 2.5 km key: Toboggan rental: * gentle, for children Intersport Matt ** medium, for families T +43 (0)5510 25250 *** strenuous, for adults www.intersportrent.at tobogganing 75 ski & board Mellau Warth-Schröcken * Dosegg (Übermellen) ** „von der Höhi“ Illuminated natural toboggan run, Illuminated toboggan run daily until 10 daily from 6.00 p.m., Hot drinks are p.m. Monday and ­Thursday toboggan served in the “Rodelhüsle” below the ride, ascent by tractor, hot mulled wine

toboggan­ run. and alcohol-free punch for the kids. ski & freedom Length: 2 km, illuminated over Toboggans are ­provided. Start: 7 p.m. 800 m Larger groups are requested to book Toboggan rental: M +43 (0)664 4120529 Rodelhüsle, Sport Natter, Length: 700 m T +43 (0)5518 2262, Toboggan rental www.sportnatter.com Sport-Knitel, T +43 (0)5583 3612 Sport Jug, T +43 (0)5583 39827 xc skiing Riefensberg ** Toboggan run near the Dorfbahn *** Steinernes Tor Warth cable car Length: 1 km Open daily during skiing hours. Toboggan rental: Length: 600 m Alois Berkmann, T +43(0)5513 8238 Toboggan rental: Dorfbahn mountain station family tips Schwarzenberg Price: Included in the valid ski pass or ** Angelika-Höhe I single or hourly tickets; Length: 400 m Toboggan transport free of charge * Angelika-Höhe II ** Toboggan run Schröckbach Length: 100 m For groups open daily upon request.

Toboggan rental: Length: 1.4 km active winter Berg Fink Ski & Bergsport, Sledge rental, registration for groups: Schwarzenberg Herbert Ritter, M +43 (0)664 3411540 T +43 (0)5512 2918, www.bergfink.at Toboggan evening in Schröcken Sibratsgfäll Every Wednesday between 5.15 and ** Krähenberg 7.15 p.m. (the toboggan run may not Upon request, the toboggan run is be used outside of these operating culture illuminated between 7 and 10 p.m. hours due to skiing). Tourismusbüro Sibratsgfäll, A special toboggan bus shuttles T +43 (0)5513 2112-13 guests between the start and the end Length: 800 m of the toboggan run at 20-minute Toboggan rental: intervals. (Last bus at 7.06 p.m.)

Krähenberg lift ticket office Length: 2 km out dining M +43 (0)664 3053322 Toboggan rental: from the 6-er Bar in Schröcken-Heimboden or from Sulzberg the start in Schröcken-Neßlegg. * village lift Refreshments are available Length: 150 m Prices: € 4 for one ride + bus, includ- Toboggan rental: ing toboggan rental; Nordic Sport Park, € 3 for one ride + bus, excluding well-being T + 43 (0)664 1222258 toboggan rental 76 paragliding

Tandem flight

The Bregenzerwald flying area From the approx. 10° in the pull-up (­Niedere close to Bezau-Andels- area, the take-off area continually buch and Diedamskopf close to Au-­ passes into a steep slope. Two take-off Schoppernau) is well-known for its ramps are available for hang-gliders. laminar upwind and its pleasant Also on offer: tandem flights. thermal conditions. information & lessons The special thing about it is that an Bregenzerwald flying school increasing number of flight/train- T +43 (0)5514 3177 ing areas can be offered within 10 Tandem mobile km with each (wind) ­direction. The M +43 (0)664 5127765 proximity and the easy accessibil- www.gleitschirmschule.at ity of both flying areas ensure that training is both flexible and fast. On the ­Diedamskopf, you can take off towards the southerly, south-easterly and easterly directions across alpine, steep terrain. 77 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

culture family tips The reflective Advent season in ­Schwarzenberg, concerts, exhibitions and music salons in the hotels: the calendar of events promises an excit- ing mix of styles, even in the winter. active winter culture dining out dining well-being 78 architecture

Modernism and tradition

If a ranking of the most ­significant the players called themselves at the architectural regions in the world start since, in the face of a ­vehement were to be drawn up today, ­Vorarlberg conflict with the “establishment” would, without a doubt, be in the top of the building industry and cham- ten. However, this doesn’t just mean ber, the title “architect” was refused. the significance According to one of the pioneers, of the individual constructions, but public appearances, the joining of also their number and density. forces and dialogue were impor- tant right from the start. The ideal This phenomenon is ­comparatively founded in terms of social ­policy – new. Whilst it is true that ­Vorarlberg’s social, affordable, sustainable, baroque master builders are a fixed regional – promoted the solidarity feature in specialist literature, when- of a generation that was searching ever the Vorarlberg school of archi- for new life forms and other ways of tecture or architects are mentioned, cultural expression, that was resist- they mean the generation born since ing the sell-out of their land, and that 1950 which has been influencing the found expression in building. The architecture here for about the past new type of architecture started off 30 years. Without counting the hand- in residential buildings – by way of ful of pioneers that preceded them, examining already existing build- this amounts to over 60 ­people: con- ings or as a new structure, often for sidering the 370,000 inhabitants, residential groups – and grew into a this is an amazing number. Such clear sign of the cultural restoration a ratio is only possible in a region which soon extended to the economic where architecture is appreciated, elite and the public sector. However, where one in four houses is designed as important as this environment by architects. was, there are always people who take responsibility, and Eberle, Gnaiger, From construction artists to architects Dietrich, Kaufmann and Ritsch have However, this is the result, rather long since become international stars than the explanation, of a develop- with chairs at renowned universities. ment. “Construction artists” is what architecture 79 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Islen holiday home in Mellau

Landscape and wooden buildings more effective here. Recently, examin- Located somewhat off the beaten ing the old buildings is also gaining track, the Bregenzerwald was part in importance. Above all, however, family tips of this development, although in the new buildings fit in with the sur- a way of its own. In contrast to the rounding landscape with regard to densely populated, industrial and material, size and proportion. Is it this commercial Rhine Valley with its attitude that shies at the eccentric and mainly suburban structure, land- that searches for the typical rather

scape, nature and rural craftsman- than the unique which guarantees this active winter ship culture is of great importance way of building a wide basis? In any in the ­Bregenzerwald. Outside of the case, good carpentry firms now build Bregenzerwald, groups of houses and residential buildings which architects farms dominate, whereas inside the in other places wouldn’t be capable ­Bregenzerwald it is the single-ridge of building: it is these houses which house, ­outside of the ­Bregenzerwald graze casually in the field like thecattle ­ it is households which commission which are as typical of the region as the culture the building, whereas inside the farmhouses and the churches. ­Bregenzerwald it is the young crafts- men. The ­Bregenzerwälder have a Worth a visit greater ­affinity for craftsmanship in It is hard to list remarkable buildings, general (Werkraum → page 82): since many of them are private­ resi-

for example, it is in the carpentry dential buildings which are not acces- out dining trade that the Kaufmann family of sible. However, a walk through Hittisau­ architects has its roots. While, fol- or Schwarzenberg for example,­ can sat- lowing the initial years, the formal isfy your curiosity. The village of Bizau experiment is in demand outside, is particularly­ suitable for such a walk: the tendency towards stringency it boasts residential buildings from all and sobriety increases inside. Rural epochs, estates, buildings for indus- pragmatism and the discipline of trial, educational­ and local authority well-being construction with timber, which is ­purposes, as well as inns: the ensemble now state-of-the-art, appears to be was awarded the ArGeAlp prize. Umgang Bregenzerwald → page 80 80 “bregenzerwald umgang” – 12 village walks

Hotel Schwanen, Bizau

The way people in the Bregenzerwald This offers us a glimpse of the towns deal with their environment is the sub- of the future: resilient, durable set- ject of specially marked paths through tlements that count both agricultural the villages of the region. Take these production and recovery as well as lei- paths and, by observing selected sure pursuits and tourism amongst objects, experience how people here their functions. Sustainable building is have shaped their lives, and continue already well established in the Bregen- to shape them. zerwald today, and the raw materials for the timber houses are obtained The way we treat each other and the locally. This also applies increasingly world (German: “Umgang”) needs for catering establishments and craft constant updating. This is the aim of workshops. Anyone who follows all our “Umgang Bregenzerwald”. It is 12 trails of the “Umgang Bregenzer- intended to train awareness and an wald” will realise sometime that these understanding of the world. are not village walks; instead, they are From 1050, people settled here and a practical training in future urban gradually took ownership of the valley life. Town planners will find inspira- and mountains. What we admire here tion for the cities of tomorrow here. as the natural environment is the Perhaps they may also come up with result of centuries of farming in the ideas as to how suburbs such as the valley, on the mountain pastures (the Bregenzerwald can be provided with “Vorsäß”; middle level of alpine farm- transport links to the other parts of ing) and the high mountain pasture. the “Rhine City” that are more sustain- The “Umgang Bregenzerwald” draws able. Walking would be best. But as the our attention to the buildings, tools “Umgang Bregenzerwald” shows, this and everyday objects that have devel- is a very time-consuming, albeit very oped here over the course of time. beautiful form of transport. Without And now, the valley is changing from noise. It also protects the environment a merely rural region into a sort of which, in the town of the future, will new suburb of the “Rhine City”, which be within its own boundaries, not out reaches from Bludenz to Bregenz. in the country. “bregenzerwald umgang” – 12 village walks 81

D ski & board

Lindau

Langen Sulzberg ski & freedom Bregenz Riefensberg Doren Krumbach Langenegg Hittisau Alberschwende Egg Lingenau

CH xc skiing Sibratsgfäll Dornbirn Schwarzenberg Andelsbuch Bezau Reuthe Bizau

Mellau Schnepfau family tips

Au Schoppernau B r e g e n Damüls z e r a c h Warth active winter “Umgang Bregenzerwald” in the winter Schröcken It is also possible to take these walks in the winter (cleared paths, winter hiking paths): Schoppernau, Mellau, Bizau, Andels- buch, Hittisau, Krumbach culture These walks are only partially acces- Umgang Bregenzerwald sible in the winter. Please contact the This is what the “Umgang tourist information office or your Bregenzer­wald” has in store host for information about variants for you: easy walks of different which are possible in the winter: lengths between 1 ½ and 4 hours.

Au, Bezau-Reuthe, Schwarzenberg, Details of the objects are described out dining Egg, Lingenau, Langenegg in an ­accompanying folder. Guided tours: January to April, Furthermore, a book on the subject ­Tuesdays and Fridays at 9.30 a.m. at containing the background histo- different places, Registration at the ries to the way of life in the Bre- respective tourist office until 5 p.m. genzerwald is available. The infor- the previous day mation media are available from information any one of the tourist information well-being www.bregenzerwald.at offices and from Bregenzerwald Tourismus. 82 werkraum bregenzerwald

Werkraumhaus in Andelsbuch

Werkraum Bregenzerwald planned by the renowned Swiss The Bregenzerwald is not only famed architect Peter Zumthor. It was actu- for its modern wooden architecture ally built by the members of the - its workshops also take new paths. Werkraum workshops known and They combine old skills and the tradi- appreciated by Peter Zumthor due to tional use of forms with contemporary long-term cooperation. The visionary design. Their inventive, high-quality design is based on two keynotes. On products are in demand internatio- the one hand, the hall-like building nally. Around 100 of the most innova- serves as a meeting place. On the tive workshops – from the carpenter other hand, it is a huge showcase for through to the light designer – have presenting the culture of craftsman- merged to create the Werkraum Bre- ship in the Bregenzerwald. genzerwald. As a joint platform, the This idea is expressed in a wide pro- Werkraum organises exhibitions, com- truding roof made of wood and a petitions and talks and is dedicated façade made of glass. There is no divi- to the fields of research and develop- sion between the interior and the ment. Working in cooperation with exterior, and the landscape is allowed the business schools in Bezau, the to flow through the building. Werkraum hosts the Werkraum school ­Bregenzerwald for the next generation Exhibitions of craftsmen and women. The Werk­ The Werkraumhaus is the venue for raum Bregenzerwald has been listed in changing presentations of products the international UNESCO register for from the workshops of the member good practical examples for the main- companies as well as themed exhibi- tenance and continuation of intangi- tions focusing on the culture of the ble cultural assets since 2016. craftsmen’s trades and architecture.

Werkraumhaus The Werkraumhaus opened its doors in the centre of Andelsbuch in the summer of 2013. The building was werkraum bregenzerwald 83 ski & board Consultancy and shop The Werkraumhaus is the place to Werkraumschau find out more about the craftsmen’s Hospitality – spaces for trades in the Bregenzerwald region. ­welcoming people Contacts can be established with the 22 June 2019 to 11 January 2020

member companies on request. Regi- Werkraumhaus ski & freedom onal hand-crafted products and rele- vant technical literature are available The current Werkraumschau from the shop. allows visitors to acquaint them- selves directly with the experi- Restaurant ence of ‘offering’ and ‘receiving’ The Werkraum Wirtschaft serves a hospitality. Around 45 members lunch menu that changes every day of the Werkraum Bregenzerwald xc skiing as well as drinks and home-made are presenting their work and cakes. The Werkraumhaus beco- activities at this show. A vari- mes a vibrant meeting place both ety of objects associated with for craftsmen and other people hospitality have been grouped from the region as well as visitors at together in eleven themed lunchtime. rooms. The range extends from a family tips clever antechamber, a mystical- Events and seminars looking bathroom, a workshop- Numerous in-house events are also like kitchen and an urban salon organised at the Werkraumhaus. It’s to an acoustically optimised possible on request to hire the buil- music room and a sophisticated

ding for training sessions, lectures lobby. The Werkraumschau also active winter and other events. Educational pro- presents the various ­dimensions grammes for children and young of good hospitality alongside people are also available on request objects from the craftsmen’s depending on the exhibition. trades and so turns a trip to the Please visit www.werkraum.at for Werkraumhaus into a ­special more information about dates. hotel experience. The nine hotel partners to the Werkraum culture Entrance fee and guided tours Bregenzerwald are also an impor- € 7.50 regular price, € 5 concessions tant component within the exhi- Free admission for children and bition – they are represented in adolescents up to 16 years. Guided the Werkraumschau with themed tours are available upon request. images and sound recordings.

The exhibition invites visitors to out dining Opening times discover and spend time there Tuesday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and effectively reveals how the Closed Mondays, Sundays and on regional trades contribute to public holidays authentic hospitality.

Information Werkraumhaus, Andelsbuch well-being T +43(0)5512 26386 www.werkraum.at 84 hand-made

Devich‘s wooden shoes

All sorts of specialist craft items are Toboggans ­created in workshops and studios. Anton Bereuter makes leisure and Items made by expert craftspeople sport toboggans from local wood. and artisans are available in a Anton Bereuter, Alberschwende number of shops, generally straight T +43 (0)5579 3488 from the producers. www.handwerkholz.at Local ash wood is cut down in the Werkraum craftsmanship (→ page 82) ­winter months when the moon is The range of products in the Werk­ right and air-dried for two years – and raumhaus­ shop covers items from then used to make sports or family firms that are members of the ­toboggans. Bregenzerwald­ Werkraum, such as felt Gebrüder Johler, Alberschwende baby swings, wooden toys, chopping T +43 (0)5579 4206 boards, pepper mills, stools and much www.johler-rodel.at more. Books on crafts and architecture are also available. Jewellery Werkraum Bregenzerwald, Andelsbuch­ In her smithy, Christina Fetz-Eberle T +43 (0)5512 26386 designs and makes jewellery from www.werkraum.at stainless steel and stones. Glanzstück Schmuckwerkstatt, Wooden shoes Hittisau Some people wear them in the shed, M +43 (0)664 9993904 others wear them in the city. The www.glanzstueck.at Devich family has been making wooden shoes – clogs, boots and san- Felt products dals – for four generations. The mate- Marianna Moosbrugger makes hats, rials – wood, leather and hide – are slippers, lampshades and even vases always different, and so each pair is from felt, preferably in the brightest unique. colours. She runs courses on request. Devich Holzschuherzeugung, Hittisau Filzwerkstatt Marianna Moosbrugger, T +43 (0)5513 31101 Au, M +43 (0)664 1360564 www.holzschuhe.at hand-made 85 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Leisure toboggan, Anton Bereuter Handwerkholz, Alberschwende

Bregenzerwald toys Textilwerkstatt Based right in the centre of the Women who are reinstating and ­Bregenzerwald, this company specia- reinterpreting old methods of family tips lises in working with wood and makes hand-crafting fabrics can be found crane trucks, doll’s houses, gaming working at this textile workshop. tables and even dentist‘s chairs from ­Initiator Martha Niederacher and her locally available beechwood. colleagues also arrange courses. In All the wooden toys are made by felting and weaving, for example, as

hand and are aesthetically pleasing well as in spinning, embroidery and active winter and free from toxins. The products willow weaving. are now being manufactured in Martha Niederacher, Krumbach „sheltered­ workshops“ by people with M +43 (0)664 3663140 special needs. www.textil-werkstatt.at Online shop: www.holzspielzeug-und- mehr.at Pfiffiges Shop: Bahnhof 148, 6870 Bezau Working with his family, nature fans culture T +43 (0)5514 30300 and creative partners from the neigh- bourhood, Roland Bär manufactures Lamps products that are sustainable, nature- Bregenzerwald designer Anna Claudia­ aware and durable: Agricultural pro- Strolz creates lighting systems and ducts (cheese, spirits, liqueurs, meat)

also makes some of the lampshades­ as well as products by the trades out dining herself at her studio in Bregenz. (wooden toys, lamps, small items of Some of the designs are produced furniture, decorative items). in cooperation with Bregenzerwald Online Shop: www.pfiffiges.at tradespeople. Farm shop: Kalchern 65, 6866 Shop & Studio, Bregenz Andelsbuch T +43 (0)5574 435 63 M +43 (0)680 5511157 www.strolzleuchten.at well-being More products from nature → p. 109 86 bus:stop krumbach

Busstop Bränden, Sou Fujimoto, Japan

Architects from seven differ- nature, of tradition and the modern ent ­countries are designing seven age, of craftsmanship and building ­different bus stops in Krumbach: culture. small buildings for the good of the Bränden bus stop public. However, this is only one Sou Fujimoto, Japan aspect of a courageous project. The Unterkrumbach Süd bus stop other is an unusual dialogue with Architecten de Vylder Vinck Taillieu, ­Vorarlberg tradition, building ­culture Belgium and craftsmanship. Unterkrumbach Nord bus stop Ensamble Studio, Spain Krumbach is well-known for its sce- Zwing bus stop nic beauty and a lively pub ­culture. Smiljan Radic, Chile In recent years, the ­village has made Oberkrumbach bus stop a name of itself with its multi- Alexander Brodsky, Russia award-winning architecture. Most Kressbad bus stop recently with the bus:stop krum- RintalaEggertsson Architects, ­Norway bach project: in ­cooperation with Glatzegg bus stop the Architektur­zentrum Wien and Wang Shu, Ly Wenyu, China the ­Vorarlberg Architektur Institut, information seven ­architectural firms from Rus- www.krumbach.at sia, Spain, Belgium, Norway, Japan, China and Chile were invited to design seven bus stops. In close cooperation with local crafts- men and regional partner architects, seven bus stops were built in 2014 – Architecture prizes for bus:stop: as a tribute to the use of ­traditional State Prize for Architecture 2014, materials, skilled manufacturing Vienna techniques and the landscape. And to Iconic Award “Architect’s Client of that which continues to characterise the Year”, Munich the region: the interplay of man and cabaret & village culture 87 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

Andelsbuch railway station, events location

The cultural calendar also has plenty Cultural offers: concerts, cabaret, the- to offer during the winter: Advent in atre, and much more Schwarzenberg is particularly atmos- information family tips pheric. Music and cabaret are staged. www.thalsaalkultur.at

Bahnhof Andelsbuch cultural society Schwarzenberg Advent The converted railway station, a The atmospheric “Schwarzenberg building that dates back to the Aus- Advent” enriches the Advent period

tro-Hungarian monarchy, now hosts with cultural and culinary evenings. active winter more than 50 cultural events a year. Highlights: The programme includes concerts 29 and 30 November Advent market and song recitals, lectures and dis- with accompanying programme on cussions, fairytale readings and exhi- the heritage-protected village square bitions. The culture club Bahnhof 1 December Concert by the Vienna intends to bring culture from all over Streichersolisten at the Angelika the world to the Bregenzerwald and Kauffmann Hall culture to use the station to present the cul- 6 December Concert by BradlBerg ture that thrives there. Musig at the Angelika Kauffmann information Museum Kulturverein bahnhof 14 December Toccata Trio concert at www.bahnhof.cc Schwarzenberg’s parish church

19 December Oh Tannenbaum – Oh out dining Sulzberg-Thal: ThalsaalKultur Pannenbaum, music / singing and The Thalsaal is considered one of the poetry during the season of Advent finest halls in the region. information Built back in 1928 based on historical www.schwarzenberg.at dance halls, it was reopened in 2007, following extensive restoration and modernisation measures. well-being 88 culture in hotels and inns

Wälderness – Hirschen’s exquisite music salon

Several hotels and inns in the Schwarzenberg – Wälderness in Hotel ­Bregenzerwald extend a warm Gasthof Hirschen ­invitation to participate in A winter programme with an insider ­entertaining cultural activities. tip character: on selected ­Thursdays between December and March, Andelsbuch – GaumenKino (cinema ­exquisite dinner concerts are held and meal) im Jöslar in the style of a music salon. The Interested cineastes sit wherever they ­Hirschen in Schwarzenberg is the can find a place – a cinema seat, a chair authentic setting for these evenings or a bar stool – and indulge in best of featuring jazz-blues-rock and new folk cinematic fare presented by Hans Bach music ensembles. The start is always Lichtspiele. Three fine courses are ser- at 7 p.m. The price includes a three- ved – and drinks anyway – to accom- course menu. pany the event. information, programme & dates Date: the first Sunday of every month, Hotel Gasthof Hirschen 6 p.m. Schwarzenberg information T +43 (0)5512 2944 Jöslar inn, Andelsbuch www.hotel-hirschen-bregenzerwald.at www.jöslar.at www.hansbach.at T +43 (0)5512 2312

Hittisau – Literature salon in Hotel Krone The “Literature on Saturday Afternoon” cycle is a joint event hosted by Ensem- ble 89 Hittisau and Gasthof Krone. Ski & Concert Warth information & dates Après-Ski & Live music at the S1 Hotel Gasthof Krone Ski Lounge Salober T +43 (0)5513 6201 → page 11 www.krone-hittisau.at exhibitions & museums 89 ski & board Insights into the history, lifestyle Bezau local history museum and creative activity are provided by A typical residential building, main- lively museums and exhibitions. tained in its original style. It holds national costumes, offers insight Heimatmuseum Alberschwende into the style of home furnishing in (local history museum) days gone by, and displays a valuable ski & freedom The museum presents aspects of collection of sacral art. rural life and interior home design opening times with guided tours from the 18th and 19th centuries at the Tue 2 p.m. entrance to the Bregenzerwald. The further guided tours upon request process from flax to linen represents M +43 (0)677 62318655 one of the special topics that the information museum presents. Bezau Tourismus, T +43 (0)5514 2295 xc skiing opening times On inquiry information Alberschwende Tourismus T +43 (0)5579 4233 family tips Kulisse Pfarrhof in Damüls Vorarlberg FIS Skimuseum in Damüls opening times 17 December 2019 to 7 April 2020 Tuesday and Friday 3 to 6 p.m.

Groups upon request Schoppernau – KulturTour active winter information How did a farmer’s son from Tourist office Damüls Schoppernau become one of the T +43 (0)5510 620-0 Vorarlberg region’s most influen- www.damuels.travel tial writers? Equipped with a map, a rucksack and an app, visitors Franz Michael Felder Museum may see important turning points Schoppernau in the life of the writer, social culture Franz Michael Felder was a farmer, reformer and farmer from Schop- writer and social reformer and is an pernau. His own way for which important historical figure from the he fought hard, his yearning Bregenzerwald. The exhibition is an for books and writing, dramatic exploration of his life, displaying events and his deep love for Nanni

­original documents, quotations and Moosbrugger, his soul mate. out dining pictures, and featuring audio points. Issuing point: Schoppernau opening times ­Tourist Office, open Mon – Fri Mon 4 – 6 p.m., Thu 9 – 11 a.m., 8 a.m. – noon, 1.30 – 5.30 p.m., Fri 5 – 7 p.m., Sun 9.30 – 11.30 a.m. Sat 8 a.m. – noon (closed on public holidays) information information Tourismusbüro Schoppernau Tourist office Schoppernau T +43 (0)5515 2495 well-being T +43 (0)5515 2495 www.au-schoppernau.at www.au-schoppernau.at 90 exhibitions & museums

Women’s Museum in Hittisau How it used to be like at home The only women’s museum in The former residential section of the ­Austria holds changing exhibi- more than 450-year-old Bregenzer- tions, which examine topics rel- wald building that was erected in evant to women from the fields the traditional timber style is home of history, art, architecture, social to the Heimatmuseum (museum of history, ­ethnology, craftsmanship, local history) where the living ­culture etc. An interplay or a combination of the 18th and early 19th centuries­ has of a regional and an international been documented. perspective is ensured. To accom- opening times pany the exhibitions, the Women’s 2 February – 19 April 2020 Museum offers a busy supporting Fri – Sun 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. programme of individually designed information & guided tours special guided tours, talks, work- Tourist office Schwarzenberg shops, concerts, readings and film T +43 (0)5512 3570 47 showings. www.schwarzenberg.at opening times www.angelika-kauffmann.com Wed 2 to 5 p.m. Thur to Sun 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. guided tours Every Monday at 6 p.m.and upon request information T +43 (0)5513 6209-231 M +43 (0)664 88431964 www.frauenmuseum.at 750 years of Schwarzenberg The 750 years of history of Angelika Kauffmann Museum Schwarzenberg is characterised by Schwarzenberg the actions and activities of those Who does the Bödele belong to? who built the town. Past, present The Bödele is where the people of and future determine the excit- Dornbirn go to spend time and relax. ing programme for the year. The But it actually belongs to the munici- grand start in January 2020 is to pality of Schwarzenberg. And con- be followed by a series of presen- trasts seem to be the order of the day tations that is being curated by here: holiday homes belonging to the historian Meinrad Pichler: factory owners and protected raised “Schwarzenberg, Dornbirn und bogs, luxury hotels and alpine econ- das Bödele. Eine Beziehungsge- omy, World Cup downhill events and schichte.” (“Schwarzenberg, Dorn- family skiing, motorcycle racing and birn and the Bödele. A relation- meditation in an ashram. The Bödele ship story.”) is a focal point of social and histori- Speaker: Dr Petra Zudrell cal change. This fact is revealed at the Friday, 7 February, 8 p.m. exhibitions in Schwarzenberg and Angelika-Kauffmann Museum in the Stadtmuseum Dornbirn (city information museum), which also provide scope www.schwarzenberg750.at for the protagonists to have their say. 91 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

dining out family tips The Bregenzerwald locals are masters in the art of cheese and cuisine. The Bregenzerwald KäseStrasse with its selection of enjoyable stations is ­dedicated to the subject of cheese. The chefs in the multi active winter award-winning restaurants and inns skilfully master the art of cooking. culture dining out dining well-being 92 käsestrasse & bregenzerwald culinary delights region

Alpine dairy in Schnepfau

How come a valley community in milk it is produced from, since only which, a century ago, Sunday dinner 2% of EU dairy farmers produce in comprised a sort of wheat flour mash this way, i.e. their cows never eat (with maize grits the rest of the week) silo fodder – instead, between May is now a gourmet region with special- and October, they only eat grass and ities whose origins are protected and herbs. During the winter, they only where refined gastronomy is at home eat the air-dried hay from valley in many restaurants? meadows. In the so-called three-stage farming method, following their The Bregenzerwald is an Austrian ­winter in the barn, the animals graze gourmet region. These days, the word on the mountain pastures located “gourmet” is used all too frequently at medium height (around 900 m) in advertising: however, the expres- ­during the spring and the autumn, sion “gourmet region” has a specific and on the high mountain pasture meaning: it is a registered brand by during the summer. The mountain the Austrian Ministry for Food and pastures are run as a collective, since the AMA (Agrarmarkt Austria), wish- the farmers only have an average of ing to remind consumers of regional 12 cows in the barn. specialities. The basic ­prerequisites The three-stage farming method are that the ingredients come (which was included in the national from the region, that production is UNESCO list of immaterial cultural regional, and that the products are assets in spring 2011) in particular firmly rooted in regional gastronomy. gives the alpine cheese the special In the Bregenzerwald, this means flavour which means it can easily alpine cheese. Every year, approxi- contend with the well-known Euro- mately 3,000 tons of alpine cheese pean full-fat cheeses. It has been are produced in the valley’s 17 dairies. like this for a long time: back at the Every year, 200 tons of alpine cheese start of the 19th century, the inhabit- are handmade by the 70 or more ants of the Bregenzerwald sold over dairy alps every summer. The special 30.000 kg of cheese to the monar- thing about this cheese is the silo-free chy and abroad. In 1877, Karl von käsestrasse & bregenzerwald culinary delights region 93 ski & board ­Seyffertitz wrote: “Everywhere – publicans and businesses, the “Gour- including in the cheerful Vorder- met region of the ­Bregenzerwald” in wald, in Hittisau and Lingenau, you 2005, the ­Vorarlberg quality market- will meet a unique people in strange ing “luag druf” in 2005, the inclusion national dress in wood-panelled par- of ­Bregenzerwald mountain cheese

lours with floors scrubbed white, into the “Ark of taste” by Slow Food ski & freedom with shiny door handles – the men 2008, and the “­Bregenzerwald Gour- busy looking after a dairy breed of met Days” by the KäseStrasse in July cow and overseeing the production of 2009. The toughest taste test is still a popular, world-famous fine cheese, the most regional however: every the women busy with elaborate year, alpine and mountain cheese is whitework embroidery.” However, it judged in Schwarzenberg. The winner wasn’t the producers back then who at this event is enough to ­satisfy any xc skiing made all the money – it was the sell- gourmet’s taste buds. ers. The Schnepfau local Josef Ambros Moosbrugger, for example, made so tip: käsestrasse & tasting much profit from selling cheese that he could afford a city palace in Milan. The KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald No doubt he dined differently to the is an association of farmers and family tips people back home, where cooking alps, alpine dairy farmers and over an open fire resulted above all in cheesemakers, cheesemongers and simple pan-fried dishes such as the restaurants, museums and cable “Riebel” and the “­Schwozermuas”. Up car operators, members of the tou- on the alp, flour, salt, butter, quark rism industry and partners from

and cheese were the main ingredi- the worlds of trade and commerce. active winter ents. The recipe for “­Schwozermus” – The over 160 partners which make named for the woodcutters from up the KäseStrasse network are Schwaz – was: “Water, flour, salt, joined together in the objective of dripping – and that’s it!” The lack maintaining and preserving taste of bread on the alp gave rise to the and regional culture. “­Käsknöpfle”, to “Sig”, known only in Programme: “Bregenzerwald the Bregenzerwald and which is cara- ­Käsekeller in Lingenau” culture melised lactose, since they wanted A look through the glass wall into to make a further product from the the Käsekeller (cheese cellar) where whey. around 32,000 wheels of alpine The passage of this modest alp fare cheese mature, information pertai- to the current first-class restau- ning to cheese culture in the Bre-

rants in the Bregenzerwald – which genzerwald, the maturing and sto- out dining now use over 60 regional types of rage of alpine cheese, showing of cheese – went through a series of the KäseStrasse film, tasting of the changes which demanded quality diverse types of cheese and other rather than ­quantity. These include specialities the 1997 EU Protection of Origin of Information & registration alpine and mountain cheeses, the KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald establishment of the “­KäseStrasse T +43 (0)5513 42870-41 well-being Bregenzerwald” in 1998 as a network www.kaesestrasse.at of farmers, alpine ­dairies, craftsmen, 94 alpine dairy shops

KäseStrasse Bregenzerwald and Sennerei Kriechere, Bezau ­Käsekeller (cheese cellar) Kriechere 136, 6870 Bezau Sale of cheese and regional products: M +43 (0)664 1236798 1 April – 31 Oct.: Mon – Fri 10 a.m. – Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat 9 a.m. – 11.30 a.m., 6 p.m., Sat 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Fri 4 – 6 p.m. 1 Nov. – 31 March: Tue – Fri 10 a.m. – Sennhaus Bezau Oberdorf 5 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Zeihenbühl 423, 6951 Lingenau Mittlere 119, 6870 Bezau T +43 (0)5513 42870 M +43 (0)664 1982000 www.sennhaus-bezau.at www.kaesestrasse.at Dec. – May: Mon – Sat 8 a.m. – noon and 6 – 7 p.m., Fri 4 – 7 p.m. Sennerei Andelsbuch June – Nov.: Tue, Fri, Sat 9 – 11 a.m., Hof 366, 6866 Andelsbuch Fri 4 – 6 p.m. T +43 (0)5512 2507 www.sennerei-andelsbuch.at Sennerei Huban, Doren Mon – Sat 8 – 11.30 a.m. Huban 139, 6933 Doren Fri: 8 – 11.30 a.m. and 2 – 6 p.m. T +43 (0)5516 2001 www.sennerei-huban.at Käsehaus Andelsbuch Mon – Thur: 8 a.m. – noon The Bregenzerwälder Käsehaus in and 4 – 6 p.m. Andelsbuch sells up to 60 different Fri: 8 a.m. – noon and 3 – 6 p.m. hard, cut, cream and soft cheeses Sat: 8 a.m. – noon ­produced with cow’s, goat’s or sheep’s milk. There is a restaurant on site Sennerei Hittisau and cheese is made on location every Platz 190, 6952 Hittisau Sunday at 4 p.m. T +43 (0)5513 2786 Hof 144, 6866 Andelsbuch www.sennerei-hittisau.at T +43 (0)5512 26346 Mon – Sat: 8 a.m. – noon, www.kaesehaus.com Thur u. Fri: 2.30 – 6 p.m. Mon – Sat: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sat 2 – 5 p.m. Sonn- u. Feiertage: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Hofsennerei Familie Läßer, Langen Sennereiladen Au Hub 99, 6932 Langen bei Bregenz A new building is currently being T +43 (0)5575 4503 planned. Information about the www.kaes.at alternative location is available from Fri 8.30 a.m. – noon and 2 – 6 p.m. the tourist office in Au. Sat 8.30 a.m. – noon www.alpenkaese.at Sennerei Langenegg Sennerei Rehmen, Au Berkmann 116, 6941 Langenegg Rehmen 88, 6883 Au T +43 (0)5513 6190 T +43 (0)5515 2959 www.kaeserei.com Winter: Mon – Sat 8.30 – 11.30 a.m., Mon – Fri: 8.30 – 11.30 a.m. Thur, Fri and Sat 4 – 6 p.m. and 3 – 6 p.m. Summer: Mon – Sat 8.30 – 11 a.m. Sat: 7.30 – 11.30 a.m. and 3 – 5 p.m. and Fri 4 – 6 p.m. Sennerei Lingenau Alpenkäse Bregenzerwald Hof 28, 6951 Lingenau Sennerei Bezau T +43 (0)5513 6420 Ach 586, 6870 Bezau www.sennerei-lingenau.at T +43 (0)5514 30020 Mon – Fri: 8 a.m. – noon and 5 – 6 p.m. www.alpenkaese.at Sat: 8 a.m. – noon Mon – Fri: 8 a.m. – noon and 2 – 6 p.m. Sat: 8 a.m. – noon sennereiläden 95

Dorfsennerei Sibratsgfäll ski & board Dorf 132, 6952 Sibratsgfäll T +43 (0)5513 2442 www.sennerei-sibra.at Summer: Mon – Fri 9 – 11 a.m. and 6.30 – 7.30 p.m., Sat 8 – 11 a.m. ski & freedom and 6.30 – 7.30 p.m. Sundays and holidays: evening sale only Winter: Mon – Fri 9 – 11 a.m. and 6 – 7 p.m., Sat 8 – 11 a.m. and 6 – 7 p.m. Sundays and holidays: evening sale only Metzler dairy farm Egg xc skiing Bergsennerei Schnepfau The project naturhautnah has Kirchdorf 123, 6882 Schnepfau created a place for energy-effi- T +43 (0)5518 2820 cient and sustainable farming. Wed and Sun: 8.30 – 11 a.m. Visitors can grasp, literally and Fri: 8.30 a.m. – noon and 13 – 7 p.m. figuratively, life on the farm and Sat: 8.30 a.m. – noon everything that it involves or cre- family tips Bergkäserei Schoppernau ates; an experience that inspires Unterdorf 248, 6886 Schoppernau an appetite for nature. From the T +43 (0)5515 30151 imposing cow pens and the turbu- www.bergkaeserei.at lent goat romping house with its Mon – Fri: 8.30 – 11.30 a.m., 3 – 6 p.m. visitor gallery, to the small animal Sat: 8.30 – 11.30 a.m., 3 – 5 p.m.

cuddling zone, the herb garden, active winter Only in the mornings during the low season in summer. the high-tech cooling and heat- ing system, through to the cheese Das Käsehaus der Sulzberger production, on to whey-based Käserebellen cosmetic processing and the farm Dorf 8, 6934 Sulzberg shop with its choice range on T +43 (0)5516 21351 www.kaesehaus-rebellen.com offer: there is nothing to hide. Mon – Sat: 9 a.m. – noon and 1 – 6 p.m. Farm visit culture Sundays and bank holidays: 1 – 6 p.m. for individual visitor and groups Whey-based cosmetic products „Birglar“ Sennerei Warth Hausnummer 73, 6767 Warth, Cosmetics, refreshing drinks, bath T +43 (0)5583 3598 additives ( → page 109) www.waeldermetzge.at Milk the goats and cows Winter: daily 9 a.m. – 7.30 p.m.

with brunch/cheese buffet and out dining Rest of the year daily: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. whey drinks Alpine dairy school Making cheese information & booking for all programmes Metzler Käse – Molke GmbH T +43 (0)5512 3044 well-being www.molkeprodukte.com 96 culinary winter hikes in the bregenzerwald

Step by step from course to course

Hike through the wintry landscape price per person and warm your cockles over a meal € 45 – € 65 (depending on the hike) in cosy cafés, mountain inns and services included restaurants. With breakfast, lunch - Description of the hiking route and dessert. Three impressive hikes - Vouchers for the meals are offered. - Tickets for the bus (if necessary) information & booking Bregenzerwald Tourismus T +43 (0)5512 2365 www.bregenzerwald.at

Hittisau-Hochhäderich hike Breakfast: The Vorarlberg and Bayern alpine Almhotel Hochhäderich circuit • Breakfast buffet 26 December 2019 to 30 March 2020, Aperitif: daily except Tuesdays and Wednesdays Hörmoos alp Hiking time: approx. 2 hours • Schnapps After breakfast taken in the cosy, Lunch: modern panorama restaurant in Hochbühl mountain inn Vorarlberg, the guests take a leisurely • Cheese spätzle with salad and drink hike uphill and downhill to take or lunch in the Hochbühl mountain • Wiener schnitzel with salad and restaurant in Bavaria. A lovely moun- French fries tain path then takes you through the Sweet finale: alps and across the snow-covered Alpstüble Moos upland moor as far as the Alpstüble • Home-made cake and a cup of coffee Moos for a sweet finish over coffee and cake. culinary winter hikes in the bregenzerwald 97 ski & board Mellau-Bizau-Bezau hike Breakfast: Through river and valley landscapes Lifestyle Resort Sonne Mellau 20 December 2019 to 1 April 2020 • Breakfast buffet (probably except 6 January – 8 February Main course: 2020), daily except Mondays, Tuesdays Biohotel Schwanen Bizau and Wednesdays • Meat or fish or ski & freedom Hiking time: approx. 3 hours • vegetarian dish of the season Guests get into the mood for their Sweet finale: hike over breakfast, taken in the Café Katrina Bezau heart of Mellau, in the Sonne Life- • Apple fritters with vanilla ice style Resort. The first leg is more or cream and whipped cream or less flat, and follows a winter hik- • Quark dumplings in buttered ing path to the Biohotel Schwanen breadcrumbs with stewed dam- xc skiing in Bizau, where you take lunch. sons and vanilla ice-cream Organic certified ingredients are cooked according to the principles established by Hildegard von Bin- gen. Afterwards, the hikers follow the stream, devoid of any notable differ- family tips ences in attitude, to the Café ­Katrina for dessert.

Sibratsgfäll-Schönenbach hike Breakfast:

Via the gorge to the alpine pasture Hotel Hirschen Sibratsgfäll active winter 27 December 2019 to 22 March 2020, • Breakfast buffet daily except Mondays and Tuesdays Main course: Hiking time: approx. 4 hours Jagdgasthaus Egender Schönenbach The day starts with breakfast in the • Cheese spätzle with salad or Hotel Hirschen Sibratsgfäll. Fol- • Wiener schnitzel with French fries lowing a winter hiking path, after or salad a steep climb, hikers continue on Sweet finale: culture a practically flat path as far as the Hotel Hirschen Sibratsgfäll alpine pasture village of Schönen- • Home-made yeast pastry with bach, which enjoys a lovely setting. vanilla sauce or On the way, the hikers cross a nar- • home-made apple strudel with row gorge affording them with the vanilla sauce

best view downwards to the Suber- out dining sach. The Jagdgasthaus Egender in Schönenbach, which was built just a few years ago, is well-known far and wide. There the hikers stop for lunch. Invigorated, they return to Sibratsgfäll, where dessert awaits them in the Hotel Hirschen. well-being 98 cuisine guide

Enjoy the culinary diversity of the Bregenzerwald. Our listing makes it as easy as possible for you. What do you fancy? A destination for the day or a restau- rant for the evening? The categories and symbols will help you choose. We have explained some of the particular specialities in italics.

Legend Open-air restaurant/terrace: The option to eat outside in good weather. Haute cuisine: Sophisticated dining in smart surroundings, elegantly presented and served. Child-friendly: Children’s menu, play area or petting zoo – children are looked after here. International cuisine: Mediterranean, Far Eastern or Latin American – there’s plenty of variety here. Bregenzerwald “Käsestrasse”: Partner operations in the Regional Association for the Maintenance and Promotion of the Bregenzerwald Cheese Culture.

hotel restaurants

A guest amongst families: Those who value cosy conviviality and a hos- pitable atmosphere will enjoy the multi-course half-board set meals in many hotels. These offer the perfect opportunity to get to know many tra- ditional hotels in a new way – includ- ing coffee and cakes in the day or on a detour to the hotel bar. Please book in advance.

Hotel Krone, au Ländle Hotel, damüls 5-course gourmet set meals| T +43 (0)5510 610 Day off: Sun, Mon, Tue|T +43 (0)5515 2201-0 Auszeithotel Rossbad, krumbach Hotel Tannahof, au T +43 (0)5513 5110 Day off: Tue|T +43 (0)5515 2210 Vitalhotel Quellengarten, lingenau Hotel Sonne, bezau T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 Austrian specialities | Hotel Kanisfluh, mellau T +43 (0)5514 2262 Products from own livestock and Hotel Post, bezau ­agriculture|T +43 (0)5518 2256 T +43 (0)5514 2207 Hotel Hubertus, mellau Boutique Hotel die Mittagspitze, damüls T +43 (0)5518 2306 T +43 (0)5510 211 Hotel Kreuz, mellau Hotel Alpenstern, damüls T +43 (0)5518 2208 T +43 (0)5510 513 Gesundhotel Bad Reuthe, reuthe Hotel Damülser Hof, damüls All-day cake buffet|T +43 (0)5514 2265 T +43 (0)5510 210 Almhotel Hochhäderich, riefensberg Hotel Gasthof Adler, damüls T +43 (0)5513 8254 T +43 (0)5510 220 Hotel Edelweiß, schoppernau Hotel Gasthof Walisgaden, damüls Locally caught game|T +43 (0)5515 2496 T +43 (0)5510 214 Sporthotel Krone, schoppernau Hotel Hohes Licht, damüls Fondue if ordered in advance| 5-course menu if pre-ordered| T +43 (0)5515 2116 T +43 (0)5510 201 cuisine guide 99

Wellnesshotel Linde, sulzberg Gasthof Tirolerhof, warth ski & board Healthy dishes|T +43 (0)5516 2015 Regional cuisine, steaks| Day off: Wed| M +43 (0)664 2564142 Boutique Hotel Lechtaler Hof, warth T +43 (0)5583 2677 Hotel Walserstube, warth T +43 (0)5583 3557 Sporthotel Steffisalp, warth T +43 (0)5583 3699 ski & freedom

restaurants

Long live diversity: In the à-la-carte restaurants of many hotels and in the more sophisticated or cosmopolitan establishments, innovative ­cuisine is combined with regional products and xc skiing international influences.­ Renowned chefs and authentically ethnic ­concepts mean that variety on the plate is guaranteed.

Pizzeria La Montanara, andelsbuch Pizzeria La Montagna, doren

Home-made ice cream|T +43 (0)5512 6138 Day off: Mon|M +43 (0)681 10686216 family tips Hotel Rest. Das Schiff in den Bergen, au China Restaurant Yinbin, egg T +43 (0)5515 2229 Day off: Wed|T +43 (0)5512 2324 Alpenhotel Post „Wälderstube“, au Schettereggerhof, egg Locally caught game|T +43 (0)5515 4103 Day off: Wed|T +43 (0)5512 3220 Hotel Adler, au Adler Großdorf, egg Innovative evening meals| Sunday inn|Day off: Mon – Sat| Day off: Tue| T +43 (0)5515 2264 M +43 (0)650 4563437 active winter Hotel Gasthaus Hubertus, au Asia Restaurant Hyotan, egg Home-made strudel|Day off: Wed| Teppanyaki grill, sushi|T +43 (0)5512 T +43 (0)5515 2342 26457 Hotel Gams „Goldstück“, bezau Pizzeria Ampuls, egg T +43 (0)5514 2220 T +43 (0)5512 20433 Hotel Gretina, bezau China Restaurant, hittisau Local dishes, breakfast buffet| Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5513 41851 Day off: Tue, Wed| M +43 (0)664 88197434 Gasthof Krone, hittisau culture Café-Restaurant Katrina, bezau Innovative Vorarlberg cuisine| Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5514 2285 Day off: Wed, Thur|T +43 (0)5513 6201 Biohotel Schwanen, bizau Landhotel Hirschen, hittisau Wilde Weiber und Toughe Typen (Wild In-house patisserie, Regional food| Women and Tough Guys), award-winning cui- Day off: Tue, Wed until 2.30 p.m.| sine (two toques) according to Hildegard von T +43 (0)5513 2320 Bingen| Romantikhotel „Das Schiff“, hittisau out dining Day off: Tue, Wed|T +43 (0)5514 2133 Gourmet-Restaurant Berghotel Madlener, damüls „Wälder Stube 1840“|Day off: Sun, Mon T +43 (0)5510 221 „Ladenwirtschaft ERNELE“| Day off: Sun, Mon, Tue| Hotel Restaurant Alpenblume, damüls T +43 (0)5513 6220 T +43 (0)5510 265 Gasthaus Adler, krumbach Hotel Walliserstube, damüls Meat and vegetables from our own T +43 (0)5510 236

farm|Day off: Wed, Thur| well-being Pizzeria da Ingo, damüls T +43 (0)5513 81560 T +43 (0)5510 505 100 cuisine guide

Schulhus Restaurant, krumbach Gasthof Alte Mühle, schwarzenberg Inventive regional cuisine| Game specialities|Day off: Mon, Tue| Day off: Mon, Tue |T +43 (0)5513 8389 T +43 (0)5512 3780 Seminarhotel Krone, langenegg Hotel Gasthof Hirschen, schwarzenberg Day off: Mon, Tue|T +43 (0)5513 6178 Day off: Tue, Wed (end of June to mid Sept. continuously) |T +43 (0)5512 2944 Hotel Gasthof Wälderhof, lingenau Day off: Mon, Tue | Restaurant Gasthof Adler, schwarzenberg­ T +43 (0)5513 62440 plain food|Day off: Mon, Tue| T +43 (0)5512 2966 Pizzeria Sandro, mellau Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5518 2416 Pizzeria Panorama, schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5512 2990 Sonne Lifestyle Resort – Gasthaus zur Sonne, mellau Bödele Alpenhotel, schwarzenberg-bödele Bregenzerwald late lunch| Vegan meals|Day off: Sat| Day off: Mon, Tue, Sun|T +43 (0)5518 20100 M +43 (0)660 4447777 Hirschen Wohlfühlhotel, schoppernau Adler Sulzberg Pizze & Pasta, sulzberg Chef’s table|Day off: Mon, Tue| Day off: Wed, Thur|T +43 (0)5516 2296 T +43 (0)5515 21150 Hotel Jägeralpe „Jägerstube“, warth Tresoli, schoppernau Raclette and fondue on request, Day off: Tue (low season)| regional cuisine|T +43 (0)5583 4250 T +43 (0)5515 2577 Hotel Jägeralpe „Sennkuchi“, warth Hotel Gasthof Adler, schoppernau Toast speciality restaurant| T +43 (0)5515 2106 T +43 (0)5583 4250 Warther Hof „Hochtannberg“, warth Day off: Mo – Wed|T +43 (0)5583 3504

inns

The traditional foundation of Bregenzerwald hospitality. Cosy (wooden) parlours, typical regional dishes, reasonable prices and ­personal contact with the hosts are the main features to enjoy when you stop here. Conveniently, they are also open in the afternoon, offering a lim- ited menu or coffee and cakes.

Gasthof Wälderstüble, alberschwende Gasthof Engel, bezau Day off: Wed, Thur from 4 p.m.| Offal|Day off: Sun evening, Mon| T +43 (0)5579 4791 T +43 (0)5514 2203 Wirtshaus zur Taube, alberschwende Gasthof Hirschen, bezau Traditional creative cuisine| Day off: Wed, Thur until 4 p.m.| Day off: Wed, Thur|T +43 (0)5579 4202 T +43 (0)5514 2382 Gasthof Löwen, andelsbuch Gasthof Taube, bizau Day off: Wed, Thur until 5 p.m.| Day off: Tue|T +43 (0)5514 2124 T +43 (0)5512 2287 Gasthaus Glöckle, damüls Erlebnis-Gasthof Ur-Alp, au T +43 (0)5510 380 regional cuisine (all-day)| Gasthaus Zimba, damüls Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5515 25192 T +43 (0)5510 379 Sägerstuben, au Gasthof Jägerstüble, damüls Bregenzerwald Cordon Bleu|Day off: Wed| T +43 (0)5510 373 T +43 (0)5515 2949 cuisine guide 101

Gasthof Adler, doren Gasthof-Pension Hochlitten, riefensberg ski & board Meat and vegetables from our own Day off: Tue|T +43 (0)5513 8363 farm|Day off: Mon, Tue|T +43 (0)5516 2014 Wirtshus Bartle, riefensberg Gasthaus Löwen – Kässtadl, egg Home-made cakes and sweets| Day off: A wide range of cheese specialities| Mon, Thur|M +43 (0)681 81330581 Day off: Tue, Thur|T +43 (0)5512 2207 Gasthof Schrannenhof, schoppernau Gasthaus Traube-Brennar, egg farm products, homemade cakes and

Day off: Tue from 1.30 p.m., Wed| gateaux|Day off: Wed, Thur| ski & freedom T +43 (0)5512 2265 T +43 (0)5515 2162 Gasthof Falken, egg Wälderstube, schoppernau Day off: Mon, Tue afternoon| Day off: Thur|T +43 (0)5515 2444 T +43 (0)5512 2211 Wirtshaus zum Gämsle, schoppernau Gasthaus Gams „Tonele“, egg Home-made cakes and Strudel| Käsknöpfle (cheese spätzle)|Day off: Thur, Day off Summer: Tue, Wed;Winter: ­ Wed| Sun from 6 p.m.|T +43 (0)5512 2327 T +43 (0)5515 30062 Gasthof Goldener Adler, hittisau Gasthaus Bauernstube, schröcken xc skiing Day off: Mon|M +43 (0)664 1003293 T +43 (0)5519 30303 Gasthof Ochsen, hittisau Hotel Gasthof Tannberg, schröcken Day off: Tue, Wed|T +43 (0)5513 6237 wild game specialties from own hunting grounds|T +43 (0)5519 268 Gasthaus Brauerei, krumbach Day off: Tue, Wed during the day| Holzschopf, schröcken T +43 (0)5513 8158 hearty food, Spare ribs| Day off Summer: Mon, Tue ; Winter: Tue|

Gasthof Kressbad, krumbach family tips T +43 (0)5519 340 Day off: Wed|T +43 (0)5513 8115 Gasthof zur Buche, schwarzenberg Gasthof Löwen, krumbach Day off: Sun, bank holidays| Meals on request |Day off: Wed| T +43 (0)5512 2972 T +43 (0)5513 8335 Mesnerstüble, schwarzenberg Gasthof Post, krumbach Day off: Tue, Wed|T +43 (0)5512 2002 Day off: Tue, Wed, Thur|T +43 (0)5513 8256

Berghof Fetz, schwarzenberg-bödele active winter Krumbacher Stuba, krumbach T +43 (0)5572 77400 Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5513 8724 Gasthof Hotel Ifenblick, sibratsgfäll Gasthaus Adler, langen b. bregenz Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5513 6432 T +43 (0)5575 4436 Gasthof Pension Nußbaumer, sibratsgfäll Gasthaus Stollen, langen b. bregenz Day off: Thur|T +43 (0)5513 2115 Day off: Mon, Tue|T +43 (0)5575 4615 Katharinahof, sibratsgfäll Gasthaus Hirschen, langenegg T +43 (0)5513 2213 Special pizza and burger menu| Day off: Tue, Wed|T +43 (0)5513 6194 Der Hirschen, sibratsgfäll Day off: Tue|T +43 (0)5513 2111 culture Gasthof zum Löwen, lingenau plain food|Day off: Wed| Alpenblick, sulzberg T +43 (0)5513 63600 In-house cake and bread bakery| Day off: Thur; Nov – June: Wed, Thur| Gasthof Pension Adler, lingenau T +43 (0)5516 2217 Schnitzel specialities| Day off: Mon, Tue| T +43 (0)5513 6367 Gasthof Ochsen, sulzberg Homemade cakes, Day off: Mon, Tue| Gasthof Traube, lingenau out dining T +43 (0)5516 2114 M +43 (0)664 2146898 Hochsträßstüble, sulzberg Dorfgasthof Adler, mellau Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5516 2863 T +43 (0)5518 2260 Gasthaus zur Taube, sulzberg-thal Nazes Hus, mellau Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5575 4405 A little gem of a listed building| Day off Summer: Mon, Tue ; Winter: Thur| Krone Thal, sulzberg-thal M +43 (0)650 4627929 Day off: Mon, Tue|T +43 (0)5575 20030 well-being Gasthaus Goldener Adler, riefensberg T +43 (0)5513 8398 102 cuisine guide

mountain restaurants and ski huts

Far from the villages, in hiking or ­skiing areas, mountain inns are popular destinations for the entire family. Sometimes in (remote) ­mountain locations, occasionally accessible by cable car, ski or car, they provide not only good home cooking but also wonderful pano- ramic views.

Alpengasthof Brüggele, alberschwende Lifthus, egg-schetteregg mountain breakfast upon request, open when cable car is operating| ­Kaiserschmarren (sliced pancake)| T +43 (0)5512 4750 Day off: Tue; Wed (from mid July to mid Sept. Alpengasthof Höfle, hittisau continuous operation|T +43 (0)5579 4391 Day off: Mon|M +43 (0)664 4956022 Berggasthof Niedere, andelsbuch Berggasthaus Hochhäderich, hittisau Mountain breakfast on request| Mountain breakfast on request| open when cable car is operating | Day off: Wed|M +43 (0)664 9222410 M +43 (0)664 4429447 Burgl Hütte, hittisau Bergkristall-Hütte, au 150-year-old mountain hut|Day off: Tue, Wed| Day off: Mon|M +43 (0)664 1808482 T +49 (0)8328 92492666 Jausenstation Neuschwand, hittisau Panoramarestaurant Baumgarten, bezau Trout pond|M +43 (0)664 1615074 Mountain breakfast|open when cable car is operating |T +43 (0)5514 2254-7 Alphof Roßstelle, mellau Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5518 2310 Jagdgasthaus Egender, bezau Käsknöpfle (cheese spätzle), locally Bergrestaurant Simma, mellau caught game|Day off: Mon| Mountain breakfast|T +43 (0)5518 2761 M +43 (0)664 2440447 Alpe Moos, riefensberg Restaurant Almstüble, damüls Home-made cakes|Day off: Wed| open when cable car is operating| M +43 (0)664 2814917 T +43 (0)5510 307 Einkehrstube „Zum Bergfrieden“, riefensberg Sonnenheim, damüls Day off: Wed|M +43 (0)664 1371613 open when cable car is operating| Imbissstube Hennenmoos, riefensberg T +43 (0)5510 257 open when cable car is operating| Sunnegg Hütte, damüls T +43 (0)5513 2076 Tray bakes|M +43 (0)676 7837858 SB-Restaurant Hochlitten, riefensberg Berggasthof Elsenalpstube, damüls open when cable car is operating| Wine cellar, Mountain breakfast| T +43 (0)5513 83122 T +43 (0)5510 297 Berghaus Kanisfluh, schnepfau Berggasthof Uga Alp, damüls Large ice cream sundaes|Day off: Mon, Italian cuisine|Day off: Tue| Tue; June – Aug.: Mon|T +43 (0)5518 2108 T +43 (0)5510 318 Wedelstube Diedamskopf, schoppernau Schwartenstadel, damüls Bregenzerwald cuisine – good and plain| open when cable car is operating| open when cable car is operating| M +43 (0)664 2053402 T +43 (0)5515 4110 241 Gasthof Alpenrose – Kaltenbrunnen, egg Käsker Breitenalpe, schoppernau Homemade cakes|Day off: Tue, Wed| Traditional cheese dishes |open when T +43 (0)5512 2433 cable car is operating|T +43 (0)5515 4110 233 Leos Hütte, egg Neuhornbachhaus, schoppernau Snack platters, home-made soups|Day off: M +43 (0)664 5367595 Mon, Tue||M +43 (0)664 2206398 cuisine guide 103

Panoramarestaurant Diedamskopf, Meierei Oberlose, schwarzenberg-bödele ski & board ­schoppernau Day off: Tue (May – Oct.)| Regional food|open when cable car M +43 (0)676 7032225 is operating|T +43 (0)5515 4110-351 Lank Hütte, schwarzenberg-bödele Berggasthof Auenfelder Hütte, schröcken open when cable car is operating| Dumpling specialities|Day off: Wed| T +43 (0)5572 7365 M +43 (0)664 4111251 Hochälpele SB-Restaurant,

Berghotel Körbersee, schröcken schwarzenberg-bödele ski & freedom open from June to Oct., Dec. – April| open when cable car is operating| T +43 (0)5519 265 M +43 (0)664 3427179 Gasthof Berchtoldshöhe, schwarzenberg Hochalphütte, warth T +43 (0)5575 4676 Mountain breakfast in summer, regional cuisine|open June – Oct.; Dec. – April| Gasthof Frohe Aussicht, schwarzenberg T +43 (0)5583 4250 Day off: Tue|T +43 (0)5512 2783 Punschhütte, warth Bregenzer Hütte, schwarzenberg-bödele T +43 (0)5583 3557 Day off: Fri (May – Nov.)|M +43 (0)664 4000864 xc skiing S1 Ski Lounge, warth Dornbirner Hütte, schwarzenberg-bödele Regional products, homemade cakes| M +43 (0)664 5467227 open when cable car is operating Hochälpele Hütte, schwarzenberg-bödele T +43 (0)5583 4260 Day off: Tue (May – Oct.)|M +43 (0)664 3890302 SB-Restaurant, warth-hochkrumbach Lustenauer Hütte, schwarzenberg-bödele open when cable car is operating Day off: Mon (May – Oct.)|T +43 (0)5512 4913 T +43 (0)5583 4260 family tips

cafés/bistros/bars

Enjoying a break in between is impor- tant too. Tasty snacks with a little glass of wine, cake with ­cappuccino, a light lunch or a quick bite to eat while active winter travelling – the choice of delicious things to eat is huge and varied.

Cäsars Café, alberschwende Bregenzerwälder Käsehaus, andelsbuch culture A wide range of ice creams| “Schaukäsen” event cuisine at the exhibi- Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5579 20003 tion cheese dairy“|T +43 (0)5512 26346 Tannerberg Stüble, alberschwende Mooserstüble, andelsbuch Day off: Mon|M +43 (0)664 4647006 open when cable car is operating | T +43 (0)5512 4855 Café Konditorei Künz, andelsbuch & egg Day off: Sun|T +43 (0)5512 2295 Bergbrennerei & Stube Löwen, au

Guided tours of the distillery, special- out dining Jöslar Lokal – Laden – Kino, andelsbuch ity cakes| Day off: Mon, Tue| Breakfast,“Warm Souls” (open rolls au gra- T +43 (0)5515 25964 tin), Salads|Day off: Sun, Mon| T +43 (0)5512 2312 Bäckerei Kleber, bezau Day off: Sun|T +43 (0)5514 23842 Liss Bar, andelsbuch Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5512 26160 Café Konditorei Natter, bezau Large selection of cakes and gateaux, Wälderstüble, andelsbuch including takeaway |Day off: Mon, Tue|

Meat and sausage specialities|Day off: Sun| well-being T +43 (0)5514 2222 T +43 (0)5512 26065 Sutterlüty Gusto Restaurant, bezau Werkraum Wirtschaft, andelsbuch Self-service|Day off: Sun|T +43 (0)5514 4130 Set lunch, meeting place for craftspeople| Day off: Sun, Mon|M +43 (0)699 18205059 104

Bäckerei Kleber, bizau Metzgerstüble – Bar & Bistro, mellau Day off: Sun|T +43 (0)5514 2579 Day off: Wed|M +43 (0)664 4118337 „ediths“ Deko & Café, bizau ’s Bärle – Bar & Bistro, mellau Breakfast with a view of the Kanisfluh| Day off: Tue|M +43 (0)664 3204399 Day off: Sun|T +43 (0)5514 2928 M1, mellau In’s 137, damüls Burger specialities|open when cable car is M +43 (0)664 75021169 operating|T +43 (0)5518 20095 Kiosk Uga, damüls Café Lässer, schnepfau open when cable car is operating | Day off: Thur|T +43 (0)5518 4114 T +43 (0)5510 211-0 Ski Inn Diedamskopf, schoppernau Café-Restaurant Rose, doren Snacks, cosy après-ski | Motto brunch every 1st Sunday in the T +43 (0)5515 4110-118 month|Day off: Fri, Sat|T +43 (0)5516 2054 Café-Restaurant Gräsalperstube, Café Ochsen, egg ­schoppernau M +43 (0)664 4349011 Day off: Tue|T +43 (0)5515 25348 Sophie Döner, egg Vinothek FranzMichl, schoppernau Home-made bread |M +43 (0)699 Wine lounge, open wines, snacks| 14078527 Day off: Mon, Thur, Sun| Sutterlüty Gusto Restaurant, egg M +43 (0)664 3801536 Self-service|Day off: Sun|T +43 (0)5512 2466 Bäckerei Fetz, schwarzenberg Vernissage Bar, egg Day off: Sun|T +43 (0)5512 2955 Bar in the vaulted cellar|Day off: Sun, Mon| Café Angelikahöhe, schwarzenberg M +43 (0)664 4520045 Cakes and gateaux|Day off: Mon| Café Trude, egg M +43 (0)664 4170664 Homemade cakes, soft ice cream| Haldenstüble, schwarzenberg Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5512 2291 Day off: Tue, Wed|M +43 (0)664 1236264 Konditorei-Café Alber, hittisau In-house pastry shop, snacks|Day off: Sun| Konditorei-Café Alber, sulzberg T +43 (0)5513 30044 In-house pastry shop, snacks|Day off: Sun| Café Stollwerk, krumbach T +43 (0)5516 2116 Day off: Mon|T +43 (0)5513 30102 Altes Sennhus, warth Heurigen Toni‘s Kuhstall, langen b. bregenz 250-year-old farmhouse| T +43 (0)5583 2677 T +43 (0)5575 20048 Stubô Bar, lingenau Dorfcafé, warth Bar in the vaulted cellar|Day off: Sun – Wed| T +43 (0)5583 3615 M +43 (0)664 1030492 Wälder Metzge, warth Café Deli, mellau Guided tours of the dairy| T +43 (0)5583 3598 regional breakfast, special coffees| T +43 (0)5518 2207

Frau Kaufmann: Learn home-style cooking At “Frau Kaufmann”, a four-course meal is cooked according to old recipes,­ either true to the original or with a few contemporary changes. All par- ticipants attend each course, either cooking or watching. The individual meals are eaten as soon as they are ready. Suitable wines are served. information Karin Kaufmann, M +43 (0)676 4954144 www.fraukaufmann.at 105 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing

well-being family tips Who doesn’t occasionally long for a retreat, for a ­leisurely pace, for stimuli which pamper the body and soul? The Bregenzerwald is such a retreat. With a great selection of specialised hotels and range of active winter ­services for your very own well-being. culture dining out dining well-being 106 health hotels

Wellness with a view

Curative or preventative: if you want bath and sauna and wellness world, to lend your health a helping hand, f­itness room. you are in the right place! Some health Price per Person: € 127 hotels also offer wellness days for visitors who are not guests of their Vitalhotel Quellengarten*** establishments. Prior reservations are Active hotel offering sports and required for all these programmes. ­relaxation activities. Spacious bathing and sauna complex plus fitness centre Hotel Schwanen**** (open to the public). The only certified organic hotel in Lingenau, T +43 (0)5513 6461-0 the Bregenzerwald – detox, fasting www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at and wellbeing programmes. Chill-out day Bizau, T +43 (0)5514 2133 1 back massage, 1 wellness bath of www.schwanen.at your choice, 1 solarium session, day ticket to the bathing and sauna world, Gesundhotel Bad Reuthe**** use of the fitness room. Applications using mud, wellness Price per Person: € 103 and beauty package deals. Lovely ­bathing house with a sauna and Auszeithotel Rossbad*** for treatments ­wellness complex and pool in the and health ­garden (open to the public). Therapeutic fasting, Vital time out, Tip: it is recommended that you make Kneipp treatments, wholefood cuisine, a reservation by telephone during the homeopathy. peak season. Krumbach, T +43 (0)5513 5110 Reuthe, T +43 (0)5514 2265-0 www.rossbad.at www.badreuthe.at Wellness day Relax day Full-body massage, Scottish salt bath in 1 mud pack with freshly cut natural the flotation lounger, affusion stimu- mud or herbal bath, 1 all-over body lating to the skin, use of the sauna and massage, 1 facial exfoliant and mask, wellness area, including breakfast buffet, including day ticket to the thermal lunch and evening meal, day rooms. Price per Person: € 160 wellness hotels 107 ski & board These hotels are particularly ori- Sonne Lifestyle Resort****S entated towards pampering their Modern-yet-cosy Superior and pent- guests with pleasurable and exciting house rooms, Spa area covering sensations for body, mind and soul. 1,500 m² Some also offer wellness days for Mellau, T +43 (0)5518 20100-0

visitors who are not guests of their www.sonnemellau.com ski & freedom establishments. Prior reservations are Sunny hours in the day spa required for all these programmes. 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. (bookable from Monday to Thursday or upon request) GAMS, Genießer- & Kuschelhotel****S Long breakfast from the Marktwelt Blossom palace and cocoon with 52 (open daily between 7.30 and 10.30 romantic suites. Da Vinci Spa dream a.m.); swimming bag including bath- world with 2,000 m² of wellness. robe, slippers, towel for use during xc skiing NEW: rest and relaxation area with your stay; fitness centre. sky pool, Earth Sauna event “Wälder Late Lunch” in the ­restaurant, Bezau, T +43 (0)5514 2220 snacks and drinks in the tea & juice www.hotel-gams.at corner. Deal including voucher worth € 100, can be redeemed against all spa Hotel Post Bezau by Susanne treatments and therapies. family tips ­Kaufmann ****S Price per person: € 149 A place of beauty, relaxation and holistic well-being. Hotel Die Wälderin Bezau, T +43 (0)5514 2207 New hotel directly at the Mellaubahn www.hotelpostbezau.com cable car’s valley station. Spacious

One-day detox sauna and bathing world, children’s active winter Detox facial treatment, detox mas- areas and garden pool that’s heated all sage, breakfast, welcoming aperitif, year round. all-day use of the wellness area Mellau, T +43 (0)5518 20102 Price per person: € 202 www.diewaelderin.at

Hirschen Wohlfühlhotel****S Damülser Hof**** Wellness & Spa Informal establishment, adventure Family-run establishment in a pictur- culture swimming pool with panoramic view esque location at an altitude of 1,500 m, of the countryside. wellness area (1,500 m²) with swimming Schoppernau, T +43 (0)5515 21150 pool, saunas, fitness room, sunbathing www.hirschen.at lawn with meditation ­corner. A “Realm Wellness day of the Senses” for massages, beauty

A sparkling welcome, snugly bath packs and baths. NEW: ­meditation room out dining robe, pampering facial, relaxing Damüls, T +43 (0)5510 210 partial-body massage, light wellness www.damuelserhof.at lunch, relax in the outdoor spa and new wellness area, total immersion Romantik Hotel Das Schiff**** in the panoramic adventure pool enjoyment the metzler way: (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.). Light-flooded relaxation areas, outdoor Price per Person: € 135 pool heated all year round, modern well-being nature spa, saunas and steam baths. Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 6220-0 www.schiff-hittisau.com 108 wellness hotels

Hotel Krone**** Landhotel Hirschen*** Modern wooden architecture, Wellness Nature experience days, intuitive area, Sky spa with a lovely panorama­ . painting, days of spiritual magic, ­Bathing lake with spacious garden and Moon week, base fasting, therapeu- relaxation complex. Indoor pool, well- tic fasting according to Dr Buchinger, ness treatments.­ Sound therapy, herbal tea hour, own Au, T +43 (0)5515 2201-0 herb garden. www.krone-au.at Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 2320 www.landhotel-hirschen.at Hotel Adler Au**** Wellness day Family-friendly hotel, 1,000 m2 of 1 massage of your choice, 1 coloured wellness area with pool, children’s light and sound therapy, 1 bath of your pool and four saunas. choice, use of the sauna, steam bath Au, T +43 (0)5515 2264 and wellness oasis. www.adler-au.at Price per Person: € 130 – 150

Hotel am Holand**** Almhotel Hochhäderich **** Wellness area with saunas, large 700 m² [AlmSpa], panorama indoor relaxation area, infrared loungers, swimming pool, sauna landscape open fireplace, heated infinity out- with various heat treatments, door pool with view of the impressive ­relaxation oases, hiking and yoga Kanisfluh as well as a Kneipp basin weekends, family experience week, and a plunge pool. wellness week, supervised children’s Au, T +43 (0)5515 2932 world. www.amholand.at Riefensberg-Hochhäderich T +43 (0)5513 8254-0 Wellnesshotel Linde**** www.alm-hotel.at Wellness and golf hotel with elegant Sunset spa (open to the public). Sulzberg, T +43 (0)5516 2025 Namasté in the snow – www.bregenzerwaldhotels.at winter yoga Wellness day Restful, relaxing, regenerative 1 pack of fresh hay flowers, 1 back yoga with crackling fire and tea. ­massage, day ticket to the Sunset spa Place: workshop at the Hotel Gast- with wellness pool, sauna complex, hof Hirschen Schwarzenberg fitness­ room. Price per Person: € 85 Dates: 27 December 2019, 3, 10, 17, 24 January, 7 February, Hotel St. Hubertus 6, 13, 20 March 2020 Spa area (massages, cosmetic treat- from 5 to 6 p.m. ments), wellness complex with Price per person: € 12 9-metre indoor whirlpool, 3-metre out- Information & registration door whirlpool, swimming pool (28°C until 1 p.m. at Hotel Hirschen all year round), bar and open fireplace. T +43 (0)5512 2944 Egg-Grossdorf, T +43 (0)5512 2785 ERLEBE YOGA | Claudia Jochum | www.sthubertus.at M +43 (0)664 5396099 www.erlebe-yoga.com natural products 109 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing Whey body care products Whey body care products and soft drinks Ingo Metzler ­produces fine personal hygiene products and powder to be made into drinks from whey. These products are also ­available online. family tips www.molkeprodukte.com (→ page 95) Soap boiling Susanne Kaufmann Spa Cosmetics Selected vegetable fats and oils, A clear look and essences from caustic soda and Schoppernau

­Bregenzerwald nature determine the spring water serve as the basis for active winter products. They are available in the this old craft. Flowers and herbs Hotel Post and in the online shop. from her own garden and the sur- (→ page 107) rounding mountain pastures are www.susannekaufmann.com additives which give the hand- made natural soap their colour, Honey skin care products texture and other properties In addition to the varied “honeyed” (minimum age 14). culture specialities, fine schnapps and choco- Place: Au-Schoppernau late, the Bentele Brothers in Alber- Meeting point: Karin Beer, schwende offer body care products ­Schoppernau, Halde 395 made from honey. Date: 21 January to 24 March 2020, The WERBINA range of body care every Tuesday at 7.30 p.m.

products with honey only contains Duration: approx. 2 ½ hours out dining pure bees’ honey produced from Price per person: € 45 inclu- their own colonies of bees. The honey ding materials and detailed is lovingly made into a natural body manuscript with recipes. care product by hand. It is extremely information & registration kind to the skin. Honey has a revital- until 6 p.m. the day before ising effect, and infuses the skin with Karin Beer a captivating fragrance. M +43 (0)664 4155330 well-being www.gsiberger.at [email protected] 110

reisemagazin

On around 60 pages, the Bregenzer- wald travel journal provides informa- tion in the form of edited stories and reports. Regional and international authors report on people both in and from the Bregenzerwald as well as Tracks in the snow. Rangers like Carola those things which give them ­pleasure Bauer from the Nagelfluhkette Nature and enjoyment. Park accompany guests on snowshoes Available from Bregenzerwald through the mountain range’s snow-­ ­Tourismus and from the tourist covered landscape and explain the ­information offices in the Bregenzer- ­special features of these mountains wald. Also available online at made from “God’s concrete” (sedimen- www.bregenzerwald.at tary rock).

winter 2019|20 winter reisemagazin № 21 reisemagazin bregenzerwald reisemagazin

Not a purple cow but an ox ­symbolises the story from the Bregenzerwald’s large ski resorts. Juan José Lapuerta –

Tiefschnee, Telemark und steile Pisten Juan Jose Lapuerta, a ­passionate skier from Andalusia – Ein Wintersportgebiet für die Familie stellt die großen Skigebiete vor Schneeschuhwandern im Naturpark Nach der Kälte Wohlgefühl: Sauna ­relocated here with his family. Handwerk, Design und Schmuck Architektur für industriellen Holzbau Kitchen Party mit zwei Köchen Ausgabe 21 | € 5,50 www.bregenzerwald.at Ausgabe

winter 2019/20 winter Wirtshäuser, preisverdächtig

bwmag021_wi1920_umschlag.indd 1 04.06.2019 11:07:59 111 ski & board ski & freedom xc skiing No-sin sauna. In the Bregenzerwald sauna was once considered a sinful temptation. But it has now become a popular way for the valley community Timber construction can be really big. to relax. Hotels like the Krone in ­Hittisau Something that’s demonstrated by present architecturally interesting sauna the timber construction company that family tips landscapes. Michael and Matthias Kaufmann run in Reuthe. It produces large, ­prefabricated residential modules for international ­timber construction. A traditional trade that has developed into a model

industry.­ active winter culture

With her head full of ideas, ­jewellery designer Christina Fetz-Eberle success- fully turns her designs into precious dining out dining objects. Her highlight pays tribute to the tradition of craftsmanship in the ­Bregenzerwald while also creating new Let‘s go to the Kitchen Party! The two and contemporary accents. chefs at the Hirschen in Schoppernau, Mike Lauer and Sebastian Berbig, also use their kitchen as a stage where guests are invited to take part in their Kitchen well-being Party or Chef’s Table. Great theatre for the eye and palate. getting there, buses & taxis

München Friedrichshafen 216 km 62 km Memmingen 103 km Bodensee D

Altenrhein 41 km

Zürich CH Bregenzerwald 140 km Klein Bodensee- walsertal Vorarlberg

Innsbruck Brandnertal – Alpen- Arlberg 200 km FL stadt Bludenz – Kloster- tal – Großes Walsertal

A

Montafon

CH

Distances to Egg in the Bregenzerwald

How to reach Vorarlberg by car from the north from the east • Stuttgart-Ulm-Lindau • Innsbruck-Arlberg pass-Lech- • or München-Memmingen-Lindau Warth** from the west via Swiss • or Arlberg road tunnel*-Bludenz- ­motorways* via Zurich-St. Gallen- Großes Walsertal St. Margrethen • or Arlberg road from the south via the routes tunnel*-Feldkirch-Dornbirn • Brenner motorway-Innsbruck-­ *toll road / ** closed in winter Arlberg pass-Lech-Warth** toll sticker required by law • or Arlberg road tunnel*-Bludenz- A toll applies to the use of Austria’s Großes Walsertal motorways and dual carriageways. • or Arlberg road Types of toll sticker: 10-day, 2-month tunnel*-Feldkirch-Dornbirn and yearly stickers. ­ • Como-San Bernardino-Chur- Information: www.asfinag.at St. Margrethen* Arriving by train and long-distance bus Public bus services in the region from austria: The Bregenzerwald boasts an excel- Several trains a day, including car lent public bus network. Holders of and night trains, connect eastern and the three-valley ski pass may travel southern Austria with Vorarlberg. on public buses to commute to the Österreichische Bundesbahn (Aus- ski area of their choice and enjoy trian Railway): their skiing. Timetables, prices and www.oebb.at information: www.vmobil.at

from germany: www.facebook.com/visitbregenzerwald By way of Lindau – Bregenz or www.youtube.com/bregenzerwaldtourism Oberstaufen. www.instagram.com/visitbregenzerwald Deutsche Bahn (German Railway): www.bahn.de The nearest car train stations are Munich and Lörrach. www.autozug.de

from switzerland: Published by: Photo credits: With EC and IC trains on the Zurich – Bregenzerwald Tourismus GmbH, Rudolf Berchtel (p. 64) St. Gallen – Bregenz route or via Gerbe 1135, 6863 Egg Ludwig Berchtold (p. 12/56/59/96/98/100) Zurich – Sargans – Feldkirch. Adolf Bereuter (cover, p. 6/25/26/33/34/48/63/ Schweizer Bundesbahn (Swiss Design by: 67/69/71/78/79/80/85/86/87/92/106/110/111) Railway): broger grafi k, Andelsbuch Kilian Blees (p. 32) www.sbb.ch Taxis in the region Hubert Cernenschek (p. 61) Taxi Mani Text by: Markus Curin (p. 99) long-distance bus Bezau, M +43 (0)664 2110500 Kinz Kommunikation Damüls Faschina Tourismus (p. 4/65) Long-distance buses are a low-cost Taxi Fechtig Florian Aicher (p. 2 – 3, 78 – 79) Peter Fetz (p. 88) alternative way of getting to Bregenz, Bezau, T +43 (0)5514 2311 Kurt Bracharz (p. 92 – 93) Markus Gmeiner (p. 102) Dornbirn, Feldkirch and Bludenz Taxi Veli Christian Zillner (p. 80 – 81) Thomas Gretler (p. 45) from across Europe: www.fl ixbus.at Andelsbuch, M +43 (0)664 5233477 Karin Hillebrand (p. 58) Taxi Meusburger Carthography: Hittisau Tourismus (p. 57) Arriving by plane Lingenau, T +43 (0)5513 6225 Aries Werbegrafi k-Design Alex Kaiser (p. 8/16) The region around Vorarlberg is Hagspiel Touristik © State of Vorarlberg for geographic information Christian Kerber (p. 103) home to several regional and inter- Hittisau, T +43 (0)5513 6335 system data Marc Van Landeghem (p. 72) national airports. Most airports Felder Reisen Text and planning of hiking routes: Dr Rudolf Berchtel Björn Matt (p. 84) are connected to railway stations. Mellau, T +43 (0)5518 2257 Alois Metzler (p. 60) Several scheduled or shuttle buses Ritter Tours Printed by: Molke Metzler (p. 109) also take visitors to the cities in the Schröcken, T +43 (0)5519 211 BULU, Lustenau Michael Meusburger (p. 2) Rhine Valley and on request also Taxi Zündel This print was sustainably produced using vegetable Mathias Moosbrugger (p. 76) to the valleys/regions: Zurich (CH), Schwarzenberg, oil-based, environmentally-friendly ink. Naturpark Nagelfl uhkette (p. 73) Altenrhein (CH), Friedrichshafen (D), M +43 (0)664 98 53 113 Schlierenzauer Family (p. 66) Memmingen (D), Munich (D), Inns- Taxi Hörburger Dates and prices subject to change. Typographical Roswitha Schneider (p. 82) bruck (A); transfer options from the Krumbach, M +43 (0)664 1851333 errors cannot be excluded. Issue: August 2019 Konrad Stadelmann (p. 62) airports to the Bregenzerwald: Taxi Benjamin Bilgeri Helmut Tiefenthaler (p. 54/55) www.airport-drivers.com Sulzberg, M +43 (0)680 4450793 travel guide winter 2019/20 bregenzerwald

Bregenzerwald Tourismus winter 2019/20 Opening times: Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Gerbe 1135 | 6863 Egg | Vorarlberg | Austria Ideas and Addresses. T +43 (0)5512 2365 | F +43 (0)5512 3010 Your guide through the [email protected] | www.bregenzerwald.at Bregenzerwald.