Brixen im Thale Tourist Magazine

Fun & SportsWHAT GETS PEOPLE HERE GOING

SightseeingJUST HOW MUCH THERE IS TO DISCOVER

Body & SoulWHAT HELPS US ENJOY OUR LIVES

In reality, we didn’t wantto get carried away...But then we had a thought: Why should we not proffer all that we can offer? After all, our attractions extend far beyond the mountains and valleys, which is why we talk about what makes Brixen im Thale so unique on the next pages: about bikes and advice, about cele- brations and cheer, about sticks, stones, snow and taking stock of life. We consider the customs, have a sniff in the saucepans, and break the ice. And we’re lucky, very lucky. Because Almighty God wants the best for us

and the region. We are teeming with colour, overflowing with greens and browns and blues, and with luscious seasons. We know the good life, a sense of simple happiness, our limits and the desires of our guests. We respect the mountains and create sublime adventure worlds here and there. For everybody. This is a place for pleasure and peace. And for an unfor-gettable holiday. You are always welcome!

Contents

40 | Traditions | Sparking an interest in the mountains 46 | Energy Supply | Think and eat better

54 | Golfing Paradise | Switch off and tee off 63 | Mountain & Valley | Go out to arrive anew

16 | Skiing Empire | Ice with style and endless pistes 26 | Move on | Bike skylines & hiking heaven

10 | Brix Six | The most beautiful Alpine summer4 | History | From the Celts to the “Antlasstritt”

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CELTS, ROMANS, BAVARIANS, FRANCIS AND THE REST OF THE MELTING POT

What you’ve always wanted to know about BrixenThe name Brixen suggests a small Celtic settlement, which was a part of the King-dom of Noricum in the second century BC. It was an inconspicuous freckle on the landscape which fell victim to the Romans in 15 BC. However, the area was insigni-ficant for Tiberius: no port, no important roads, no Marian apparitions, no signifi-cance. People lived modestly, predomi-nantly off mining – just like people in the still sparse areas of Kitzbühel, Jochberg and Leogang at the time.

The Bavarians began to make themsel-ves at home in the area comprising Kuf-stein, Wörgl and Kitzbühel in the sixth and seventh centuries, which brought about a noticeable change in the demographic structure. This created new living condi-tions for people.We have documents providing eviden-ce regarding this. For, as it is written, the Bishop of Salzburg owned an Aribonid proprietary church in Brixen in 788 – as well as the field, it should be noted.

SORRY, WHO ARE THE ARIBONIDS?Alongside the swathes of territory they controlled in the Lower Inn Valley, the Aribonids, a busy, aristocratic tribe from Bavaria, also possessed land in abun- dance in Brixental. However, at the start of the tenth century, the Prince-Bishopric of Regensburg seized control of the land via bestowal from Bishop Rathold of Verona. This made the whole matter surrounding the land more complex. The Diocese of Regensburg only had power as sovereign lord in Brixental, which was subject to the Bishop of Salzburg in ecclesiastical matters. But that’s not all; when Arch-bishop Eberhard II (1200-1246) founded the Proprietary Diocese of Chiemsee in 1215 and incorporated Brixental into the

territory, he retained the right of patro- nage and the tithes of the church of Brixen. In short: In the thirteenth century, there were three powers around here which called the shots: The Diocese of Regensburg had power as sovereign lord, Chiemsee was responsible for religious law, and the Archbishop of Salzburg had the right of patronage and the tithes of the parish church of Brixen.

When the Prince-Bishopric of Salzburg bought the District Court Itter from the Prince-Bishopric of Regensburg in 1385, the valley fell into the hands of the mona-stic land of Salzburg once and for all. From this point on, Salzburg exercised secular control, while Chiemsee was responsible for spiritual issues.

Our next stop on this historical tour takes us to 1805, when the loose military allian-ce between Austria and Bavaria shattered. Prince-Elector Maximilian IV. Joseph of Bavaria concluded a “defensive and offen-sive alliance” with Napoleon Bonaparte and, in so doing, set in motion a disastrous chain of events. From South Tyrol into the region of Salzburg, rebellious peasants fought fiercely and successfully against the Bavarian-French invaders. However at the battles of Bergisel in 1809, the Tyrolese rebellion met a bloody end. It wasn’t until Napoleon’s later defeat in 1814 that Tyrol once again passed to Austria.Upon completing the final purchase of the Duchy of Salzburg, Emperor Francis I of Austria procured the former territories of Salzburg, Zillertal and Brixental, for the state of Tyrol. This resulted in the state of Salzburg becoming the size that it still is today.

FROM THEN ON, TOURISM REIGNED The history of tourism in Brixen has its roots in the start of the 19th century. Brixen owes the onset of tourism to Maria-Louisen-Bad. The saline chaly- beate spring, where the public baths were constructed, was named after the Archduchess Maria Louise (the second wife of Emperor Napoleon), who came to Brixen to stay at a health resort and, at the same time, climbed the Hohe Salve, a mountain in Tyrol. Furthermore, the opening of the railway line in 1875 was one of the main reasons for the early onset of summer retreats in Brixen and a predominantly upperclass and aristo- cratic throng of guests.

A decisive upturn came following the First World War, when the standard of living in industrialised countries rose and the winter tourism industry generated strong momentum.

The tow lift was built on the Kandler Alm in the midsixties, followed by the Sonn-berglift, which played a key role in 1970 in ensuring the final breakthrough for winter tourism in Brixen. In the 1971/72 winter season, the cableways at Hopfgarten and Söll showed the way to the future with a joint lift card. The seven day ski pass, which granted access to a wider area for skiers, followed and got Brixen, Ellmau, Going, Hopfgarten, Itter, Scheffau and Söll on board. Furthermore, a pooling agree-ment between the villages in the region has been in place since November 26th, 1985 and turned the skiing association SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser into a strong tourism brand and Austria’s largest contiguous ski area.

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ONCE A YEAR, ON THE FEAST OF CORPUS CHRISTI, ON THE STROKE OF 1PM, ANCIENT HISTORY IN BRIXEN IM THALE COMES BACK TO LIFE: A HORSEBACK PROCESSION (ANTLASSRITT), WHICH IS A RICHLY-COLOURED TRADITION THAT CONTINUES TO EXCITE HISTORIANS, LOCALS, AND TRAVELLERS TO THIS DAY.

TIME TRAVELHIGH IN THE SADDLE

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Brass music and standard-bearers, festively decked horses, men in traditional garb and dignitaries on horseback: The “Brixentaler Antlassritt” is one of Tyrol’s oldest traditions. Once a year, on the feast of Corpus Christi at 1PM sharp, priests, farmers

and friends of the tradition from Brixen im Thale, Westendorf and Kirchberg climb onto the horses and ride, accompanied by local music clubs and the sound of ringing bells, from the parish church in Brixen to the “Schwedenkapelle” (Swedish chapel) near Kirch-berg. The “Antlassritt” has been taking place since the mid-17th century and, according to tradition, has never been absent from the calendar. This much seems certain. How-ever, the origin of the “Antlassritt” is not such a certain matter. The historical German word, Antlas, meant the release of penance. On this “penance day”, public penitents were released from church penance and re-incorporated into the church.

INFO

Every year on the most important day of the feast of Corpus Christi. The meeting point is the parish church in Brixen from 12:30. The procession starts at 13:00.

„This far and no further!“ An explanation can be traced back to the time of the Thirty Years’ War (1618-1648), when hardship was widespread in Tyrol and fear of the stormy Swedes knew no bounds. It is believed that the inhabitants of Brixental pledged to hold a procession to the “Schwedenkapelle” every year, when the Northern Lights spared the valley from death and destruction. The Swedes kept clear of the romantic Brixental and, according to historical research, never crossed the River Inn. Nevertheless, there is a quote in the Schwedenkapelle, which states “Bis hierher und nicht weiter, kamen die schwedischen Reiter” (This far and no further, came the Swedish riders) and marks, to this day, the end point of the brilliant procession between Westendorf and the town border of Kirchberg. The supposition that the “Antlassritt” resulted from an ancient procession of livestock on the day of the feast of Corpus Christi also continues to do the rounds to this day.

In the meantime, holiday-makers have started to come from all over God’s green earth in order to attend the richly-coloured procession in the middle of the Tyrolean spring. As one of the most significant holidays, it is greeted with loud cannon shots early in the morning. The “Antlassritt”, as a highlight of the festivities which take place on the feast of Corpus Christi, has always followed a strict ritual. More than 90 riders from the municipalities of Westendorf, Brixen im Thale and Kirchberg in Tyrol take part, wearing historical garb during the traditional Corpus Christi ride. The dean, with the Blessed Sacrament, gets on a bedecked horse at the local manor in Brixen. To the sound of ringing bells and in strict order, based on rank, they circle the chestnut tree in the courtyard of the deanery. The standard-bearers from Kirch-berg lead the procession in pairs, followed by the other riders from Kirchberg. The Brixeners come next, with their flag and the dean and other ministers, all of whom say the rosary over and over again.Finally, the “village” riders march past and show – last but not least – how tradition can reverberate strongly through the centuries.

Strong reverberations in the Alpine spring

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BRIX-SIXTHE ALPINE SUMMER SIX PACK

THE CLEAREST INDICATION OF AN ALPINE SUMMER: THE SIX ADVENTURE WORLDS OF THE

WILDER KAISER-BRIXENTAL CA-BLEWAYS. RECOMMENDED FOR ALPINE SPORT ENTHUSIASTS,

PEOPLE WITH AN INSATIABLE APPETITE FOR HEIGHTS, AND ADVENTURE-LOVERS OF ANY AGE.

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From the middle of May until October, Wilder Kaiser – Brixental’s cableways de-monstrate what they’re capable of and choose which highlights they will offer in order to enthuse both young and old. Six adventure worlds are served by 12

cableways and various lifts, while there are also 700km of hiking trails, 50 quaint Alpine pastures and huts, countless mountain bike routes, panoramic mountain views, discovery parks, nature trails, the world-famous “Hexenwasser” - Witches’ Water theme park, Tyrol’s largest reservoir, Alpine scenery, seminar lodges high in the mountains – and that’s just the tip of the iceberg! You only need one ticket to get all of this: the SkiWelt Hiking Experience Pass!

1. FILZALMSEE: ALPINE PASTURES, A MOORLAND LAKE AND SEMINAR IDYLL

Around Tyrol’s largest reservoir, the idyllically-situated Filzalmsee, visitors are met with magical Alpine scenery, where there are endless joys to discover. If you pay close attention, you can catch sight of some unique life, because Filzalmsee is surrounded by moorland where rare plants and animals thrive. A huge amount of fun, huge routes and huge forests are what await you on the themed hiking trails – as well as countless attractions. And for those who’d like to relax and study, there is a fully equipped, quaint seminar lodge in the mountain scenery of Hochbrixen, which provides a perfect space for both meditation and motiva-tion.

2. HOHE SALVE: A PANORAMIC MOUNTAIN AND BIKE PARK

The most beautiful panoramic mountain in the lowland of Tyrol is the captivating Hohe Salve (1829m), which boasts a 360-degree panoramic view of more than seven-ty 3000m-high peaks! The Hopfgarten cableways make it easy to ascend the Hohe Salve, where you will find Austria’s highest situated church, the pilgrimage church of John the Baptist. You can tie in a visit to the church with a glorious and entertaining circular hike on the Panoramic Path. (Duration: 30 minutes)

3. HEXENWASSER: PRIZE-WINNERS, WATER MAGIC, COOLING OFF

The recipient of numerous awards, in-cluding the State Prize for Tourism, the Witches’ Water theme park is a moun-tain adventure which is unique world-wide. This splashy nature trail provides entertainment in a playful, cooling and imaginative way. Reservoirs, waterways, pools for climbing, mud basins, firepla-ces – there are over 60 bases and all the senses receive attention, meaning that entertainment is never in short supply for all ages, young and old. Tired bodies can recover their energy in the Kneipp water basins or allow their reflex zones to be massaged during Austria’s longest barefoot trail over grass, mud, and sto-nes. Austria’s first rotating-panoramic terrace, a wind harp, and 12 sundials top off this incredible view.

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4. ELLMIS ZAUBERWELT: EXCITEMENT, ENCHANTMENT, AND EDUCATION

The Hartkaiser, which lies above Ell-mau, is the home of the hilarious ma-gical frog Ellmi. It is a generously sized adventure playground for young and old alike. Here, the orders of the day are exciting adventures, mystical moments and all sorts of magic – where nature is at its most fascinating, and you can discover interesting facts about ancient traditions. The secrets of the mountain world, recounted in a playful manner, encourage participation and learning: These tales range from that of the tal-king owl to the mystical demonic figure of Habergeiss.

5. KAISERWELT SCHEFFAU: IDYLLIC PATHS, PEACE AND PLAY

At the summit of the Brandstadl, not far from the gondola station and standing at 1650m, you’ll come across a very cool play-ground: The KaiserWelt! Here, kids can romp about to their hearts’ content, conquer the forest with treehouses, slides and clim-bing devices, and they’ll always discover something new in the process. Parents can either join in or enjoy the view of the Hohe Tauern, or the Wilder Kaiser on the other side. A walk over a short mountain path will see you arrive at romantic Jochstubensee for a magnificent view.

OPENING TIMES:May to October

· SkiWelt Hiking Experience Pass· Some areas are suitable for wheelchair users and families with pushchairs· Free transport hand bikes· Disabled toilets available· Charging station for electric cars next to the Scheffau and Brixen cableways for owners of a day-ticket· More information at www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com

6. ALPINOLINO: THE DISCOVERY PARK FOR WHIZ KIDS

At Alpinolino in Westendorf, the Alpine discovery park in the adventure area of the Talkaser (1770m), everything revolves around fun and thirst for adventure. This is the world of marmots, eagles, weasels and co – and an exciting tour with many thril-ling and fun encounters awaits you. Here, you can race against the animals, unravel mysteries and visit the flight school with Bert the eagle! You really can experien-ce the mountain world of Tyrol with its plants and flowers in incredibly impressive ways. It’s best to get a tour from an Alpinolino guide, who can give you mountains of information.

ICE WITH STYLEIN 8 MINUTES, YOU COULD BE IN ANOTHER WORLD: LIKE AN IGLOO- HOTEL WITH POWERFUL ICE ART. THIS COULD BE THE ‘COOLEST’ MOTIVA- TION FOR STAFF FOR A VERY LONG TIME

The ALPENIGLU ® village is a trip into a glistening world. Start: Brixen im Thale cableway

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Ta da! There it is, in all its splen-dour, spick and span in snow and ice. The ALPENIGLU ® village. 18

igloos with sophisticated features, cosy, perfect for parties, exclusive, and cre-ative. A winter experience and hub for entertainment, which thrills on multi-sensory levels. Experience something re-ally different: for many a new experience and a spectacular attraction for everyo-ne who, without exerting much energy, wants to come face to face with great-ness. The igloo village, in the mountain station in Hochbrixen, looks like this:

The ice art exhibition ICE LAND is based at the gondola station. International ar-tists have handcrafted the tremendous ice sculptures, which really do grab the limelight – thanks, in no small part, to hightech lighting. Not any old sculpture can go on show here. During an appli-cation process, the ice sculptors had to

demonstrate their abilities with some exceptional designs and then create their sculptures on-site.

What’s more, a night in the igloo hotel won’t leave you cold. Guests receive the complete package, including a candle-light dinner at the ice table and a bespo-ke programme.

The igloo village is, however, not just the perfect destination to visit during a winter holiday; it is also a brilliant gift idea and one of the hottest locations for an incentive north of the Equator. Here, overworked managers can ‘cool down’ in the incentive workshop; newly-weds can enjoy an unforgettable honeymoon; and birthday children can spot their glowing friends between ice blocks and icicles.

Ice – a perfect building material for sculptures, but also for ice benches, ice ta-bles, ice glasses, ice plates and the ALPENIGLU® ice bar...

OPENING TIMES:10:00-16:00

ADMISSION:see www.alpeniglu.com

GUIDED TOURS: Daily, every half hour,from 10:30-15:30

CONTACT:ALPENIGLU® GmbHUnterer Sonnberg 13A-6364 Brixen im Thale

Phone: +49 711 341690-90Email : info@alpeniglu.comwww.alpeniglu.com

The ice blocks were produced in a special procedure and weigh around 120 kilo-grams.

LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION: IN BRIXEN IM THALE, RIGHT IN THE HEART OF SKIWELT AND THE KITZBÜHEL SKI RESORT, ONE OF

EUROPE’S GREATEST WINTER PLEASURES OPENS UP.

IN THE HEART

OF THE SKIING EMPIRE

INFO

Children’s ski area on the moun-tain and much more.More than 70 quaint huts and mountain restaurants.

Guests have been coming to enjoy winter sports in the Kitzbühel Alps for more than a century. The gorgeous

grass mountains only require a light co-vering of snow to ensure that visitors can enjoy some smooth skiing, and with the help of snow cannons and snow groo-ming, nothing is left to chance. The result is that, today, the region ranks among the largest and most modern winter sports destinations in the Alps. With its roman-tic villages, the dreamlike beauty of the valley areas, and the quaint huts, it has everything needed for a wonderful winter. One of Brixen im Thale’s biggest advanta-ges is its central location between SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental and the Kitzbühel ski resort. Away from the slopes, there is plenty to tempt families into Brixental, as well as cross-country skiing, going on ski tours, winter hiking, ice climbing, and many other activities and trend sports.

90 LIFTS & RAILWAYSThey do their jobs impressively: There are over 90 railways and lifts in SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, which ensure that nobody spends too much time wai-ting around – after all, skiing is much bet-ter than sitting. 15 state of the art gondo-las carry guests quickly and comfortably to the top. 36 chairlifts, 16 of which are detachable, with between four and eight seats – in some cases heatable – make the time spent on the lift as pleasant as possible, while 21 practice lifts make le-arning to ski as easy as pie.

279 KILOMETRES OF SKI RUNS279 kilometres of ski runs, 134 blue, 128 red, and 17 black – there’s something for everyone, from tree-free slopes for car-ving to richly varied slopes for experts,

as well as from family slopes bathed in sunshine to the valley descents which go on forever. Furthermore, the 1400 plus snow guns make it certain that the forecast always reads “snow”. On top of that, there’s no waiting around – of the 225km of ski runs which can be treated with artificial snow, it takes less than three days to cover 110km with snow.

SKILINE, FUN PARK ETC.State of the art: With Skiline and the ski pass number, it’s very easy to access data regarding heights reached, lifts, and many other things. Furthermore, SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental has the perfect fun park for every level. For example, the Boarders Playground in Westendorf, with its easy, medium, and pro line, can boast of being one of the most well-known and largest parks in Austria.

THE MOUNTAINS ARE MUTE MASTERS WHO MAKE FOR SILENT PUPILS

WINTER HIKING IN BRIXENBACHTAL - AN INSIDER TIP, FOR THOSE WHO HAVE CHILDREN OR ARE ONE THEMSELVES NOW AND AGAIN.

Keep picking your feet up; people who let their feet slide in the snow have to accept that they need greater bra-

king distances and, therefore, that they will lose speed. And those who don’t use their counterbalance correctly will end up jettisoning some cargo. However, not much can go wrong on this smooth win-ter trail – from the Brixenbachalm down into the valley the kids are on a short lead, enjoying the 3.5km trail. “Great fun, and into the curves with a ‘weeeee’”. You can rent toboggans for a small fee at the hut and something to nibble on is also provided. Quaint Brixenbachtal is also a prime hiking destination during the sum-

mer. There are umpteen mountain bike trails and stunning tours to sites of spiri-tual energy. If you’d like to go reflect on life, you can take your time and leave all your cares behind, all the while enjoying the freshest air the earth has to offer and an Alpine climate, which will lift your he-art and soul.

INFO

Brixen im Thale Tourist Office

You can find the exact tour with a hiking map and waypoints at www.kitzbueheler-alpen.com

(GOETHE)

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YOU LET THEM OFF THE LEASH…IT’S A MAINSTAY OF THE KITZALPBIKE FESTIVAL: THE INTERNA-TIONAL HILL CLIMB BRIXEN IS A HIGHLIGHT FOR THE MOUN-TAIN BIKING COMMUNITY: AND WITH 14 SCORING CATEGORIES, EVERY-ONE HAS A CHANCE TO WEAR THE YELLOW JERSEY

Each and everybody. Together. The MTB HillClimb in the municipality of Brixen im Thale is unique, since it combines a

race, a celebration, and fun – all at the same time! As part of the KitzAlpBike Festival, it features performance, records, and team spirit. Professionals, amateurs and hobby bikers, spring chickens and old hands, neo bikers and hard-nosed experts, old rivals and old friends. Athletes from near and far. One-man shows and teams, women and men, those competing for prizes and those just there for a day out. Everyone’s there, so it makes sense that there are loads of people on the sidelines, going alongside

„HILLCLIMB BRIXEN” AS PART OF THE KITZALPBIKE FESTIVAL:

Online: www.kitzalpbike.at Phone: +43 57507 2141

Start: Centre of Brixen i.Th. (800m)Finish: Hochbrixen (1300 m)Route length: 6km

ONCE,

Ob jung, ob alt, Profi oder Hobbybiker, allein oder im Team – dabei sein ist alles.

Hundreds of spectators along the route enthusiastically cheer on the participants.

the bikers, encouraging them, and giving three cheers to all those who have scaled the 6km climb and an altitude of 500m in 14 categories. Yep, that’s right: 14 catego-ries, including licensed racers, amateurs, hobby bikers, professionals, with the team classifications professional, elite, friends – and some others. There were many more than 400 riders last year, and the number increases each year. The HillClimb Brixen starts at 18:30, as the sun is mellowing. The spectators have plenty of time to come down and watch, and the finishing line at Filzalmsee – and particularly the oppor-tunity to cool off – calls to the participants.

Lisi Osl, the local matador, always gives it everything.

8846 metres above sea level

32,296 metres above sea level

Mount Everest

32.296METRES OFCLIMBING

WHERE TO EXPEND ENERGY? DURING THE SUMMER, MOUN-TAIN BIKERS WORK UP A SWEAT CYCLING 812 KM, TRAVELLING THROUGH EVERY LAST NOOK AND CRANNY THAT THE REGION HAS TO OFFER.

There aren’t many areas which can say they are one of the quality-con-trolled bike regions. But Brixental

is one of them. The entire region, infra-structure, hotels, specialist bike shops and bike schools have to meet strict gui-delines in order to receive the “Approved Bike Area” certificate.

People who want to see the most be-autiful places in the area can go on an adventure ride with a bike guide –

no stress attached. Where to? How long? How difficult? An experienced guide, who can also give you advice regarding selec-ting a bike and riding technique, takes care of all that. Those who prefer to hit the road alone can use their bike maps to find recommended climbs and the ca-bleways they can use on tours. The Tyrol Mountain Bike Safari tour sees mountain bikers overcome many metres and kilo-metres of climbing on the stretch from Nauders to Walchsee – part of the route also runs through the Kitzbühel Alps.

INFO

Free mountain bike transport at the following cableways:· Brixen im Thale:  Gondola lift Hochbrixen (1)· Ellmau: Hartkaiserbahn (80)· Going: Astbergbahn four person chair lift· Hopfgarten: Salvenbahn I (20)· Scheffau: Brandstadlbahn I + II (61 + 62)· Söll: Gondola lift Hochsöll (40)· Westendorf: Alpenrosenbahn I + II (110 + 111)

Mountain bikes are prohibited within all of the adventure worlds (on the sign-posted themed trails of the adventure worlds).

AUSTRIA’S LARGEST E-BIKE REGION AND THE EASE OF MOUNTAIN BIKING

PEDALLINGWAS YESTERDAY

PEDALLINGWAS YESTERDAY

PEDALLINGWAS YESTERDAY

Edi always experienced knee pain when cycling uphill. Hanna couldn’t keep up with her husband and Erwin and Gabi had never even remotely considered a ride which included a gradient. These are all stories which can be consigned to history, because the e-bike or Pedelec (Pedal Electric Cycle) provides hidden propulsion inside the bike, making the laws of gravity easy to overcome. Speaking precisely, the integrated engine easily supports the cyclist at speeds of up to 25km/h. The e-bikes democratise the pleasure that mountain biking brings. A small engine, pow-ered by a mini lithium ion battery, helps pleasure cyclists, people with damaged knees and notorious laggards to scale the heights.

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AUSTRIA’S LARGEST E-BIKE REGIONBrixental is a part of the largest e-bike region in the world! You can take your time here to enjoy the nine tourist resorts in the Kitzbühel Alps and around the Kaisergebirge. Cycling enthusiasts can enjoy biking from the tourist resort of Kufstein and the Hohe Salve, to Brixental (Kirchberg-Brixen-Westendorf), Kitzbühel, St. Johann in Tyrol, and onto Kaiserwinkel, Wilder Kaiser (Going-Scheffau-Ellmau) and through Pillerseetal, on an excellent network of bike paths, a long way from main roads.

100KM E-BIKE ROUTE NETWORK On-site alone there are 310 e-bikes available, over 37 rental stations, numerous part-ner businesses (hotels and guesthouses, …), and service specialist bike shops, as well as around 60 tourist destinations which are worth a visit. It’s possible to charge the battery at many of these destinations – while you recharge your own batteries, meaning that nothing will stand in the way of you reaching your next destination.

E-BIKE FESTIVAL IN THE SUMMEROf late, summer in Brixental has been characterised by e-bikes. Enjoyable cycling is the name of the game – thanks to the electric bikes, everyone has the chance to reach the most beautiful destinations in Brixental and the surrounding areas without much trouble. Furthermore, at the e-bike festival, you can give electric bikes a try and get up to speed with all the trends. And for those who then want to subject the e-bikes to a final “endurance test” are able to do so, on one of the numerous themed bike tours.

INFO

Kitzbühel Alps e-bike map with route tips and chargingstations (available in the tourist office on-site from €1),different e-bike modelsNormal price about €20 – €25 a day.32

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FROM COSMIC RAYSTO OM AND AH

SOME GO INTO ITS MIDST, OTHERS SEEK A SEN-SIBLE BALANCE, SOME JUST WANT TO ESCAPE FROM THE HUSTLE AND BUSTLE. MORE AND MORE PEOPLE ARE SEARCHING FOR MEANING AND STUMBLING UPON WHAT NATURE CAN OFFER. HERE’S A SHORT GUIDE ON HOW TO ... BECOME HAPPIER.

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Different cultures have different approaches as to what constitutes “awareness.” An “om” for some people is an “ah” for others, be it thousand-year-old mantras or deep exhalation. The fact is that, in the Western world, more and more people

are looking to take time out with meaning, searching for a flow which gives them new strength or at least enables them to put the hustle and bustle of everyday life to one side for a while. It has been known for thousands of years that nature can help with this and that there are sites, imbued with spiritual energy, which serve this purpose. We had a look for some of these places, and found a veritable treasure trove of them:

SITES OF SPIRITUAL ENERGY ON THE PATHThere are places which draw you to them like magic, which trigger a desire to linger, sacred sites which enrich us, energetically taking effect, like an invisible force field where we can dock for a while. These places in Tyrol are causal, deeply rooted, and more or less marked: Wayside crosses and shrines, chapels, rocks, glades and, in particular, thousand-year-old paths bear witness to this. They are usually strategically placed, so that hikers don’t reach their destination exhausted; instead, they find strength along the way and at their destination. Those who walk with an open mind will notice the diversity the nature has to offer and be astonished by the hike. They will also feel free and alive, and will broaden their perspectives about themselves and their surroundings.

GEOMANCER AND GEOCULTURAL ADVISER Geomancer and geocultural advisor, Harald

Kunstowny, moved in search of sites of spiritual energy and was inevitably dra-

wn in the direction of Brixenbach. For centuries, pilgrims have been travel-

ling the trail along the „Stations of the Cross“ route to Talkaser-Niederalm, before moving onto Kreuzjöchl-see, the Wiegalm and eventually reaching the Harlassanger Chapel – this route is particularly popular

on July 2nd, the annual pilgrimage to the Harlassanger Chapel, as “The

Visitation” is celebrated.

1 | Brixenbach Waterfall | The site at the waterfall is a sacred place with lots of ener-getic activity, masculine information, po-sitive Mars energy, such as courage, spirit, decisiveness, resilience, determination, directness etc. People resting here can literally feel the strength of the information and the healing energy that nature brings.

4 | Rock of Spiritual Energy on the Gais-berg | It is said that the Rock of Spiritual Energy – a boulder on the crest of the Gais-berg – emits energy of a very high quality. Hikers should lie here, with their backs on the rock, breathe in and out while standing upon it, relax, and, with a sense of inner calm, let the primeval power flow into them.

3 | Sacred trees | It is often possible to find distinctive trees within sites of spiritual energy. “Guard” trees or trees with huge amounts of spiritual energy have a strong force field and an amazing connection to highly developed and pure levels of consci-ousness. These are ideal places for medit-ation and embracing nature – feeling the flow of energy as it makes its way upwards.

6 | Anne’s Chapel at Kreuzjöchlsee | Both Kreuzjöchlsee and St. Anne’s Chapel by the lake are sites where you can regain energy. Despite being designed as a pond, the lake captivates visitors thanks to its idyllic set-ting. St. Anne’s Chapel is on a knoll on the south side of the lake. A large mass is cele-brated there on one Sunday a year.

2 | Harlassanger Chapel | Built in 1732, the Harlassanger Chapel is a Shrine to the Virgin Mary – a primitive cultic shrine, where pow-erful “dragon energy” combines with cosmic rays. Put your left hand on your heart, make eye contact with the Mother of God – this enables hearts to “open”. Give thanks, and dwell awhile, drinking in the tranquillity of the place.

5 | Harlassanger Bründl | Drink in the ener-gy here. Almost all creation myths begin with the emergence of life and earth from prime-val waters: On the one hand, water acts as an information broker, on the other hand, extraneous vital information is incorporated into the metabolic process via water.

HIKER’S TAXI BRIXENBACH

In July, August, and September. WARNING! It is only possible to travel by taxi with a prior booking at the Tourist Office in Brixen (from the centre of Brixen) or if booked by the landlady on the Brixenbachalm (from the Brixenbachalm). The taxi departs from the centre of Brixen at 09:00 and 10:00, and from the Brixenbachalm at 16:30 and 17:30.Please book a taxi at least 30 minutes in advance!It is free for guests with a valid guest card.

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LET THERE BE LIGHT, ANIMALS, CRUCIFIXES, AND COATS OF ARMS

WHEN HUGE IMAGES OF FIRE ARE ABLAZE ON THE MOUN-TAIN SLOPES OF BRIXENTAL, THERE IS A TANGIBLE SENSE OF ARDENT LOVE FOR SUMMER AND AN OLD TRADITION: THE BERGLEUCHTEN!

People have always looked forward to summer in the Alps. The long winter, followed by a (usually)

short spring, has always fuelled desire for warmth, growth, and harvest-time. And once August was here and the grass had been cut, grateful locals and creative souls were inspired by the close-cropped slopes. The result is that the natives have been putting lu-minous signs of fantasy and merriment on the slopes for 20 years. Today, the Bergleuchten is a fascinating spectacle with spectacular, hugely varied images

INFO

Brixner Bergleuchtfest from 18:00

A colourful programme of live music, culinary specialities and children’s entertainment.Special services of Alpenrosenbahn I+II run from 19:00-23:00 at half price

of fire and, simultaneously, a festival for young and old, with lots of music and delicious delicacies in the village. When dusk falls at around 21:00, the prot-agonists “ignite” their works and the flames flow into the images. Arranged by numerous societies from Kirchberg, Brixen im Thale, and Westendorf, the circa 50,000 torches then start to illu-minate the valley, arranged in the sha-pe of star signs, coats of arms, religious symbols and letters which burn into the memories of the wide-eyed onlookers.

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DRESSED UP AND TROTTED OUT – OR WHYISN’T EVERY WON-DERFUL COW CLAD IN LILAC?

Superstition moves mountains, conjures up demons, and creates many a custom. In this case, that of the Almabtrieb – the ceremonial herding of cattle from the moun-tains back into the valleys, impassable and hostile forces have been overcome by the ringing of bells since ancient times. Back then, it was not a decorative affair; but there was a lot of noise, and it has been a ceremonial affair since 1746 with artificial floral wreaths and decorative greenery. Colourful ribbons, bells, mirrors, and Alpine flowers followed later. The demons vanished. It is only now and then, such as follo-wing an accident or a death in the Hoamathaus, that the cows aren’t decorated or wear black ribbons – today, like back then.

HEADDRESSES AND A 40KM JOURNEY As the nights begin to draw in, the pasture grass becomes more sparse. The time co-mes at the end of September: The farmers equip themselves for the return journey. Today, of course, this is to the joy of everyone, with a wonderful celebration as the focal point. However, the first priority is decorating the creatures – a procedure which takes time and must abide to certain rules. The so-called “Kranzkuh” leads the way, wearing a particularly splendid headdress. The other cows and yearlings follow, and the calves jostle for position at the end of the procession. The processions go through the entirety of Brixental and mainly come from the side valleys of Aschau and Windau – for many, that means the route is up to 20km and for the farmer from the Lechner farmyard, who comes from Wörgl, 40km.

FROM DREAD TO DELIGHT The Almabtrieb is celebrated in a unique way here in Brixen im Thale; with music and a special supporting programme of events. The “marching” of the animals is accom-panied by a colourful festival, where visitors can find delicious delicacies and historic craftsmanship from the region. This begins with “Frühschoppen” – Sunday morning drinks – from the band and many regional products and titbits, such as homemade farmhouse bread, farmer’s butter, cheese, bacon or different herbs at a small farmer’s market. When the farmers present their cake and tart creations, opportunity knocks for sweet-tooths and sugarholics to have their fill. The fairground is packed to the rafters by midday. The air is sweet with the smell of grilled chicken and fresh “Bra-terkrapfen”, a speciality pastry from Tyrol. The Brixen shooting companies hand over their coats of arms and reach for the barbeque tongs, while the folk music groups play on stage, getting the festival goers warmed up. At about half past one, the first cattle-drivers arrive on the village road, on the Heimathof route. One farmer after ano-ther, followed by flamboyantly adorned cows and hundreds of spectators, is given a rapturous reception. And the tireless festival guests sit in the taverns for a long time, long after the hubbub of the Almabtrieb has faded away, taking things easy.

The farmer from the Lechner farmyard must make a particularly long journey, which is why he stops at Brixnerwirt’s village green. The cows can have a rest there and are then, early on Saturday morning, decorated before the journey is completed.

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THE SURROUNDINGS YOU’RE IN AFFECT YOUR SPIRIT. THE SEMINAR LODGE AT FILZALMSEE CAN TELL YOU A THING OR TWO ABOUT THAT – AT 1300M.

THE SURROUNDINGS YOU’RE IN AFFECT YOUR SPIRIT. THE SEMINAR LODGE AT FILZALMSEE CAN TELL YOU A THING OR TWO ABOUT THAT – AT 1300M.

OF MODERN VENUES

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The Filzalmsee “Training and Semi-nar Lodge” is set against a romantic backdrop of Alpine landscape and

right next to the idyllic Filzalmsee, at approximately 1,300m above sea level. It can be used from June to October and December to April and is easy to access, requiring just an eight minute journey from the Hochbrixen gondola lift fol-lowed by five minutes on foot. Lots of people have already used the space to refuel, hold meetings and workshops, and think up new things – and all that,

as has been proved, with the help of na-ture’s power, which is all around in the famous mountain scenery and has an impact on body and spirit. The rustic ambiance in the lodge and modern se-minar equipment provide a unique set-ting for events, meetings, and seminars of any kind. The old wood of the roughly worked beams, a chimney built from river rocks, and the open layout of the space give the lodge at Filzalmsee a cosy and old-fashioned feel. Combined with modern conference technology and ele-

gant seminar furniture, the place has become an inspiring meeting place. De-pending on how the seats are arranged, the lodge and its total area of 140m² offers space for up to 30 people. The Brixen im Thale Tourist Office and the cableways are at your disposal in order to ensure that you receive perfect ser-vice, and are happy to help in meeting special requests, organising taxi trans-port, or accommodation at the site.

INFO

Tourist OfficeKitzbüheler Alpen-BrixentalA-6364 Brixen im ThalePhone: +43 57507 2241

FACILITIES · Numbers of rooms: 1 · Total area: 140 m² · Space for around 30-35 people to sit in the living room and anteroom on the ground floor · Seminar room on the first floor: space for 16-40 people · Projector · Dolby Surround System · DVD, CD player, TV· Big screen (2m wide)· Flipchart · Pin boards· Eight seminar tables (80 x 120cm)· WifiCan be booked all year round.

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REDISCOVERING THE ART OF COOKING

(R+K)xTa

= G2

_______

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Famous words from even more fa-mous people make it plain that food has always been an art. The French

cooking star Paul Bocuse once said “Lots of people have forgotten how to eat – they can only gobble.” It is alleged that writer Günter Grass opined “There is only one greater pleasure than one gets from eating well: The pleasure one gets from cooking well.” Even in the ancient world, the Greek doctor Hippocrates swore by his saying “Let food be thy medicine and let medicine be thy food.” It’s easy to see that body and soul have always stirred tempers and that, in times of rush and stress, it is difficult to get proper nou- rishment: everything as a haze of labels, a craze of flavours everywhere, always flying by. However, good advice is not hard to come by when it comes to food, and reflecting on the truth is catching on in places. In this part of the world, for ex-ample, the “BRIXENTAL-ER KochArt” was launched as a society in 2008 with seven catering outlets. This saw the start of the journey to rediscover local cooking in the area.

A STYLE OF COOKING WITH AB-SOLUTELY NOTHING ARTIFICIAL.To ensure we don’t over-egg the pudding, we’ll describe the BRIXENTALER KochArt as an association of hosts, who use quali-ty-controlled produce from local farmers and producers and detail the origins of the products in their menus. They put on speciality weeks together several times a year and teach traditional and innovative preparation methods in special cooking workshops with renowned chefs. Parti-cular emphasis is placed upon redisco-vering forgotten specialities. 11 establis-hments are now on board, which go on journeys of discovery in the region, im-merse themselves in the culinary history and delight in new interpretations.

The founders of KochArt: Chairman Michael Grafl (sitting) and Kurt Tropper (Brixen im Thale Tourist Office, from left to right) in a circle of some members

A FORMULA WHICH GOES TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER.Those who want to eat well can work it out for themselves: Regionality plus cu-linary art times training divided by small Alpine pastures equals great food (see formula). After all, due to the fact that agriculture in Brixental is on a small- scale by European standards, the quality of the products from local livestock bree-ding and milk production is the highest in Europe. Put simply: quality rather than quantity. There is also, of course, grea-ter transparency regarding the origins of the products when working on a small- scale. And what’s more, continuous, in-dependent monitoring provides additi-onal quality assurance. The Agrarmarkt Austria (AMA) Gastro Seal of Approval certifies KochArt and its partners as estab-lishments which go beyond merely preserving the philosophy of regional pro-curement: they live it. In 2011, the association received the regional prize in Tyrol in the tourism/gastronomy catego-ry. Bon appétit!

IT TAKES QUITE A LOT FOR AN AREA TO BE RENOWNED FOR HIGH QUALITY FOOD: PASSION, TASTE, AND A FEW POTS…OR ARE WE FORGETTING SOMETHING?

INFO

BRIXENTALER KochArtc/o Tourismusverband Kitzbüheler Alpen – BrixentalDorfstraße 93A-6364 Brixen im Thalewww.brixentaler-kochart.at

Of course, green oolong tea is healthier in the long run. As is whey juice. But there are those moments when your palate craves some warmth, the myth calls for a digestion aid, and the songs of praises dedicated to God and the world cra-ve a swallow of something with a high alcohol content. Schnapps, glorification, and magic at the same time. Al-though the fermentation and distillation of alcohol is one of the oldest cultural technologies around, not many peo-ple know much about its production – a few more proba-bly know about its effects. But we don’t want to discuss gluttony here. Having said that, intoxication has proba-bly been around longer than the human race. Herds of elephants, gorging on fermented fruits under fruit trees, provide the evidence… The German alchemist Albertus Magnus, Bishop of Regensburg (1193-1280), was one of the first to consider the distillation of alcohol. Distillation appa-

ratus improved over the centuries, and it became possible to have more and more control over manufacturing conditions.

In many rural areas, the incentive to do this was not pleasure, but rather that the people absolute-ly had to preserve and utilise

fruit. Before it completely rotted on the ground or in the barns, it was burned to make schnapps. Consequently, rustic farmer’s spirits

became popular, and before long spirits were being served for reasons of pleasure – between vodka, whiskey, fruit brandies and liqueurs, the-

re’s a world of possibilities for connoisseurs of strong drinks.

ALL PRAISE BE TO SCHNAPPSThe requirements for an excellent spirit are: the best ingredients, fully ripe

fruit with lots of fructose and flavour without rotten patches, stalks, leaves and the like – that can ruin everything. The five big parts of the manufacturing process – mashing, fermenting, distillation, storing, and finishing off – sound very simple, but there’s more to it than meets the eye. There are many pitfalls in both the chemical process and the balancing of qualities, amounts, and tem-peratures, the nuances in the handling of shut-off valves, distillation phases and storage that need to be avoided. Both experience and, above all, a good nose for the processes are required. There is a long tradition of distillation and many dab hands in this part of the world; for example, the Erber distillery in Brixen im Thale has had the right to distil for over 400 years. The schnapps

and brandies, which have won many awards, owe their incredibly high quality not least to the fully ripe, fresh, and aromatic fruits and berries

that the region has on offer. Twice distilled in a traditional copper vat, they turn into valuable – and delicious – brandies, which

have won many awards at Destillata, a spirits trade fair, as well as at the World Spirits Awards. So

all that’s left to say is… Cheers to the schnapps, let’s get it down

us!

A SCHNAPPS WOULDGO DOWN A TREAT!A SCHNAPPS WOULD

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LEISURE FACILITIES

· Swimming pool· Bathing lake· Beach volleyball court· Kneipp water basins· Three tennis courts and a training wall· Erlensee, a lake for amateur fishermen· Adjacent cycle path no.21

WATER AHOY!

Smack bang in the middle – in a man-ner of speaking. An island for spiritu-al people, those taking a plunge or a

jump, those taking a day off, lovers of ball games and those dreaming of heaven. The leisure centre in Brixen im Thale could use a different name – a more flowery, fanciful, and expressive name – but modesty is a virtue … Having said that, you get further without it. With this in mind, let’s descri-be the variety on offer in this leisure oasis once, as well as how at home one feels here, in the midst of a stunning moun-tain backdrop. The pleasure zones at this leisure centre are the modern swimming pool and the idyllic bathing lake, which provide an uplifting blue to mix with the green of the meadows and forests and the grey and brown of the mountains. The sense that this is a place where you can cool off, have fun, and relax deeply all day long ripples through the area. Little ones can speed down the giant waterslide, eit-her sitting down, on their stomachs, or as a pair. The more adventurous bounce up and down on the diving board and pluck up their courage, ready to dive in head first, belly-flop, or cannonball. Both those who are intimate with the surroundings and those who have fallen in love with them have found their spots on the gently-slo-ping lawn and coo to family and friends, rest, read a book or get lost in the fleecy clouds. Everything takes on a timeless quality. A little further back, excited play-

ers fly after volleyballs, just like the nearby tennis players desperately trying to get their racquets on the felt-covered ball. Ho-wever, the big dogs come to town once a year. When Borussia Dortmund send their lads to the Alpine training camp, the pools empty, the meadows are abandoned, and the stools in the bistro are left vacant. There’s no kibitzing. That’s the time when people want to see how Reus & Co spray the ball about, how Tuchel gets his millio-naires up for training and, of course, if they can get an autograph for their kids. And those who would prefer to do their rounds in the Kneipp pool, or wait for some big fish in the fish pond, can do so in a haven of tranquillity – here in the small, yet won-derful, leisure centre in Brixen im Thale.

WHERE DORTMUND’S STARS GET THEIR KICKS, THE LOCALS LEAVE THEIR CARESBEHIND AND HOLIDAY-MAKERS ARE HAPPY TO IDLE AWAY THEIR TIME.

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THE SKI WORLD INTRODUCES ITSELF IN SUMMER WITH THE THEME OF “BREAKFAST IN THE MOUNTAINS”. AN EXPERIENCE WITH AS-CENT, AUTHENTICITY AND PARTICULAR AFTER-EFFECTS.

Nothing is as beautiful as the first rays of sun, high up in the Alps, when the fresh air begins to undulate in the early light and the world awakes in the mountains. Then, while sitting on the warm wall of the hut, watching the scenery take shape,

drawing sharp contours, slowly getting ready to start the day. The tranquility is in-comparable, and the leisurely ascent to the site is rewarded with a hearty and healthy breakfast. Stage complete: On the table is an assortment of delicious, home-made fresh food and drink. Fragrant bread, straight from the oven, healthy Alpine herbs in fine cheese spreads, cow’s milk from the local livestock, eggs from free-range hens, home-made jam, and farmer’s butter. It’s not a time for busy-bodies, party animals, or loudmouths, but for those who are drawn to the good life a few metres up a hill, those who follow their hearts, and who are happy to sit at a large wooden table with an abundance of authenticity..

BREAKFAST – ACTUALLY, BREAKSLOWThere are 34 Alpine pastures and huts in the area (9 in Brixen and Westendorf) which, from 8 o’clock, are equipped to deal with those coming for breakfast on the mountain and reward early birds, trekkers, and stage winners for making their jour-neys. Those who would like to have a constantly changing view accompany their breakfast can head to the panoramic terrace on the Hohe Salve. This offers you a view of over 70 three thousand metre-high peaks during your breakslow, including Austria’s highest mountain – the Grossglockner. So that everyone gets a glimpse, the terrace turns 360 degrees every hour – in slow motion, of course!

INFOS

Brixen Tourist OfficeDorfstraße 93 6364 Brixen im ThalePhone: +43 57507 2200 You can find a list of participa-ting Alpine pastures andmountain inns here:www.fruehstueckamberg.at

BREAKFAST

A MOUNTAIN FOR

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GRAVITYIN A MICROCOSM

WHY THE MOST BEAUTIFUL SPACE-TIME EXPERIENCESEND IN 18 BLACK HOLES.

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One goal unites them all – professi-onals, amateurs, and greenhorns: Getting golf balls, covered with up

to 450 dimples and weighing around 46 grams, to disappear into the holes – or at least approaching one of these oh so small, seemingly onguard holes in the best way possible. “Happiness and despair go hand in hand here; the ‘dedication’ alone is what counts, ‘aspi-ring for perfection’ is nonsensical. After all, the special thing about this sport is the beauty of the landscape and the magical silence on the golf courses” – this is what the philosophers amongst the long-game experts and short-game artists say. For the average handicap golfer, the atmosphere is very import-ant. With this in mind, we would advi-se heading to the plateau golf course in Westendorf, which opens up a very special event horizon. The 18-hole, 72-par championship course offers both a sporting challenge for every golfer and undiluted golfing pleasure for ne-wcomers on its 5290m expanse. Golfers have a view over beautifully laid-out lakeside scenery from the elegant club house. It’s possible to play both a 9 and 18-hole round from here.

INFO

Golfplatz KA – WestendorfA-6363 Westendorf, Holzham 120Phone: +43 5334 20691info@gc-kitzbueheler-alpen.at www.gc-kitzbueheler-alpen.at

Golf schoolRestaurant in the club housePro shop with rentals availableChipping area

Other clubs nearby:

Golfclub Kitzbühel-Schwarzsee www.golf-schwarzsee.at

Golf- und Landclub Rasmushof www.rasmushof.at

Golfclub Kitzbühel Golf Club www.golfclub-kitzbuehel.at

Goldplatz Eichenheim www.eichenheim.com

Golfclub Wilder Kaiser www.wilder-kaiser.com

Golf- und Countryclub Lärchenhof www.laerchenhof-tirol.at

KaiserwinklGolfclub Kössenwww.golf-koessen.at

Golfclub Mittersill-Stuhlfelden www.golfclub-mittersill.at

Golfclub Reit im Winkl e. V.-– Kössenwww.gcreit.de

15 OTHER GOLF COURSES NEARBYThey talk of the “golfing capital of the Alps” in this part of the world, and rightly so. Nowhere else in the Alps has such an array of golf courses on different greens. Apart from the “in-house course” in Westendorf previously discussed, golfers who enjoy variety can take their pick of 15 other lush greens in close proximity, which can be reached within an hour.

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3x3 DESTINATIONSLET’S PIN A DATE DOWN FOR A VISIT…

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ENJOYING THE CITY, NATURE, OR AN EXHIBITION: A FEW PLACES TO VISIT FOR THOSE WHO WANT TO EXPAND THEIR HORIZONS AND INDULGE THEIR SENSES

SALZBURGAs Mozart’s city of birth, the city still has an international reputation on the music scene. Mozart’s spirit still seems to glide through the streets and narrow lanes today. Sights include the Cathedral Mu-seum, the Palace Residenz Salzburg, the House of Nature, and Hellbrunn Palace & Zoo.

INNSBRUCKOne’s image of the busy capital of Tyrol is shaped by the incredible backdrop of the Karwendel mountain range. The pic-turesque old town is overflowing with si-ghts, such as the medieval “Golden Roof”, the Hofburg – the Imperial Palace, whose chapel is home to the “Black Men” statu-es, as well as the Bergisel ski jump, desi-gned by star architect Zaha Hadid.

KUFSTEINSituated right on the German border, Kufstein has become a popular tourist destination. Kufstein’s landmark, the medieval fortress, was first documen-ted in 1205. Real treasures, such as the largest outdoor organ in the world, can be found within its walls.

KRIMML WATERFALLSThe water drops from a height of 390m, making the Krimml Waterfalls the highest in Europe and a symbol for all the nature beauty spots in the Hohe Tauern National Park. For more than 100 years, the water-fall path, with its numerous viewpoints, bridges, and raised platforms, has taken nature enthusiasts face-to-face with this incredible water spectacle.

WILDLIFE PARK, AURACHThe Wildlife Park in Aurach, near Kitzbü-hel, offers visitors a very special experi-ence. Numerous wild animals have made their homes here, 1080m above sea level. You can observe fallow and red deer, ibex, lynx, and wild boars at close quarters during a tour through Tyrol’s largest enclosure, which spans about 40 hectares.

GLOSSGLOCKNERHIGH ALPINE ROADThis, the most famous Alpine road, leads you into the heart of the Hohe Tauern National Park to the highest mountain in Austria, the Glossgockner (3798m), and its glacier, the Pasterze. You cross a unique world of mountains with blosso-ming Alpine meadows, massive cliffs and eternal ice when driving along this 48-ki-lometre-long high Alpine road with 36 bends and a high point of 2504m above sea level.

SWAROVSKICRYSTAL WORLDSThe Swarovski Crystal Worlds, designed by famous Austrian artist André Heller, are home to a secret hidden world full of won-der and incredible games which revolve around crystals. Visitors enter the inner realms of the attraction through the mouth of a stone giant, where they will find an in-comparable experience of sounds, smells, and lights.

MUSEUM OFTYROLEAN FARMSTyrol’s largest open-air museum provides an interesting insight into different Tyro-lean farms from different eras and shows how life has developed for Tyrolean far-mers during the last few centuries.

SCHWAZ SILVER MINESchwaz was once a rich town which grew in stature and whose prestige was built upon silver and copper mining. Today, you can visit the mine and see the bust-ling activity which was a part of everyday life. Guests are taken deep into the heart of the mine. It is an unforgettable experi-ence for both young and old.

In case it rains…

- Hohe Tauern National Park Centre

in Mittersill

–> www.nationalparkzentrum.at

- Schwaz Silver Mine

–> www.silberbergwerk.at

- Schwaz Planetarium

–> www.planetarium.at

- Swarovski Crystal Worlds

–> kristallwelten.swarovski.com

- Lehenlahn Silver Mine in Wildschönau

–> www.schatzbergwerk.at

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Lots has already been written about Kitzbühel: the small town inhabited by 8000 souls, which became a chic

tourist resort in the post-war period. Stories and pictures of events and the in-crowd fill the pages of national and international newspapers. Its reputati-on, once built on ski-legends Ernst Hin-terseer, Anderl Molterer and Toni Sailer, became known throughout the world and enticed the courageous, the stres-sed, and those with deep pockets. These people were drawn to this picturesque small town by its colourful town houses,

sloping meadows, stylish ski slopes, the view of the Wilder Kaiser and the moor-land around Schwarzsee. And when the prominent members of society moved their country houses to Kitzbühel, the town became a brand and a magnet in the area which retains its charm today. In addition to the sporting highlights, such as the Hahnenkamm ski races, polo tournament, and the triathlon, the event calendar is studded with events for competitors and onlookers year in, year out – to name just a few, there’s the Kitzbüheler Alpenrallye, the KitzAlpBike Festival, the Kitzbühel Golf Festival and, of course, the fair, the traditional sum-

mer night festival for locals and those who wish they lived here. However, the chamois city doesn’t represent a bunch of clichés; it represents incredible de-velopment as a top-class holiday des-tination and a strong marketing signal for the entire area – there aren’t many tourism logos which are as well-known as Kitz’s. Away from advertising, gossip, and sensation-alism, the experienced traveller will find Kitzbühel to be what people have always found it to be: a jewel in the middle of gorgeous grass mountains, with peaceful alleys, people with a sense of humour who love life – and for those who are into it, a golden Rolex watch.

HAPPY ENDINGTHE VALLEYS WITH A

WINDAU, ASCHAU, KELCHSAU. THREE STUNNING SIDE VALLEYS WHICHWILL EASE YOU TOWARDS HAPPINESS.

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There are valleys and there are val-leys. Like those where a buzz of joyous activity pervades the atmo-

sphere, whose previously empty spa-ces are now studded with villages and whose peaks reach up to kiss the sky. And then there are valleys which lead to silence, which disappear into the depths and rise up high, in which the life goes out of mobile communications while people find out what theirs is truly about. Even though the happy ending at the end of the road sometimes turns out to be a Labstelle restaurant, a pla-ce of power, or foresight, nature alone rules here – but so do soul soothers or even lucky charms, depending on what you fancy. The routes in the valley dis-perse into narrow paths, climb up to meet green oases, gently undulating meadows, past waterfalls and untou-ched nature to some solitary mountain huts, where travellers are always given a friendly welcome.

BIKE TOURS AND HIKING TRAILSPeople don’t go biking and hiking in Bri-xental’s side valleys for a quick endor-phin rush. The tours and trails in Windau, Kelchsau, and Aschau are crying out to be experienced – with the senses enga-ged, using all your muscles, alone, or with friends. Maybe you’ll choose to go and meet Sepp Kahn, a poet who wri-tes in dialect and lives on the Lärchen-berg, and have the pleasure of hearing one of his poems; or maybe you’ll cross the centre of the Kitzbühel Alps, which is in Aschau and is marked by a five-ton boulder from the Grosser Rettenstein.

SKI TOURS: POWDER, FIRN, AND PEACEPeace is popular. That’s what’s drawing more and more people into nature and the country, with nothing much than a couple of skis on their feet, wrapped up in furs, a backpack, and the desire to re-ach a summit. Their tracks are recorded, step by step, in the untouched snow, and create subjective impressions. Ex-periences become first experiences in the silent winter of the side valleys and their myriad trails to the summits. And then, in the depths of winter, when the downhill runs are crying out to be enjo-yed, or in the spring, when the firn de-corates the slopes like a sheet of crystal, don’t hold back…Off we go!

KELCHSAUThe Kelchsau (also known as Kelchsautal or Kelchsauer Tal) stretches from Hopf-garten im Brixental southwards. After around 10km, the valley branches out into the Langer Grund, leading west, and the Kurzer Grund, leading east, which extend all the way to the main crest of the Kitzbühel Alps, on the border with Salzburg, where peaks reach up to 2500m. The Kelchsauer Ache flows through the valley and into the Brixentaler Ache near Hopfgarten. The neighbouring val-leys are Wildschönau to the west and Windau to the east. In terms of transporta-tion, the valley and its 664 inhabitants can be accessed thanks to an 8.3km road.

ASCHAUIn the picturesque municipality of Aschau, the valley is split into the Unterer Grund and the Oberer Grund. Going over the Oberer Grund, you’ll come to the Klooalm, a “Brixen original” with delicious food. Over the Ragstattalm you’ll find the Stangen-joch (1713m). The crossing into Pinzgau is very well-known, particularly by bikers who wish to go on a long, ambitious day trip. The new Kitzbühel Alps long distan-ce hiking trail “KATwalk” also leads over magnificent plateaus and Alpine paths. KATwalk is made up of six stages and 108km, making it a real challenge. A further side valley – the shortest – is Brixenbachtal, which leads south from Brixen im Tha-le. Brixen’s 13 “Stations of the Cross”, designed by Tyrolean artist Patricia Karg also run along this path. The Gaisberg and the Wiegalm are the highlights – a stunning cycle route also leads over these points. The Harlassanger Chapel, a site of spiritual energy, isn’t far away.

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Legal notice | Tourismusverband Kitzbüheler Alpen – Brixental Ortsausschuss Brixen im Thale 6364 Brixen im Thale, Dorfstraße 93 Phone +43 57507 2200 E-Mail: brixen@kitzbuehel-alpen.com

Picture credits | Archive Tourismusverband Kitzbüheler Alpen-Brixental, Archiv SkiWelt Wilder Kaiser-Brixental, Archiv GHOST Bikes, Archiv ALPENIGLUR®-Dorf, Simon Oberleitner – GIX Media GmbH., Kurt Tropper, Stefan Eisend, Erwin Haiden, Markus Mitterer, Archive BRIXENTALER KochArt – Michael Huber, ERBER Edelbrand - Brixen im Thale, Golfclub Kitzbüheler Alpen Westendorf – eye5 –Photos by Christoph Schöch, Archive Tourismusverband Kitzbühel, Stefan Ast-ner, andreaswimmer.com, Franz Ager

Designed by | Tom Jank NETWORK

INFO

Hiking and tour maps, plus details:Tourist AssociationPlease only go on ski tours with people who know the area and with suitable equipment. Please take snow conditions into account!

WINDAUWindautal goes southwards from Westendorf. It slopes gently uphill from the Stein-berg Inn, where there is a parking site for hikers. The Gamskogelhütte is a popular destination, as well as being a pit-stop for some trekkers and those on cycle tours so that they can regain their energy. From here, the path goes over lush Alpine pastures to the Filzenscharte – the crossing into Pinzgau offers mountain bikers an unforget-table day trip before leading back into Brixental over the Stangenjoch. Hikers prefer to take the narrow path to the Rotwandwalm, where Carola, a dairy farmers, awaits them with home-made bread, butter, cheese, and yoghurt. Here, the path leads to arguably the most beautiful peak that the Kitzbühel Alps have to offer, past the idyl-lic Reinkarsee to the legendary peak of the Kröndlhorn (2444m).