SKI LODGE BULLETIN

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THe Story Big Five THE PHOTO WIZARD EARN YOUR TURNS
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Publisher
Eric Spongberg
EDITORS
Johan Jonsson ARON ÖSTMAN
SPECIAL THANKS
Oskar Enander JOHAN AXELSSON kristoffer johnsson
All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form
or by any means without permission from the publisher. If you do not obey you
will be haunted by snowless winters until the end of time.
© SKI LODGE ENGELBERG

SKI LODGE BAR

LAUB ZüLS WENDELüCKE STEINBERG GALTIBERG
6 14 28
index
6 The Story
8 A Word From Our Manager
10 The man
14 Big Five
20 Mountain Knowledge
26 Staff Picks
28 The Photo Wizard
42 Earn Your Turns
44 Gear Guide
6

The Story
Ski Lodge Engelberg is a story about
two old skiing friends, who finally took
the leap of faith and realised an old
dream – to open a hotel in the Alps.
Niklas and Eric met for the first time
in Engelberg in 2002, when they both
had long hair, dreamt of becoming
professional freeskiers and very few
had heard of the little monastery town
at the end of the road. After university
and ski bumming years, they ended up
with long hours behind desks in Stockholm
and London, working in finance
and advertising.
Years later, during a weekend break to
relive a bit of the good old times, Niklas
stumbled upon a bed and breakfast
and a run down hotel building next to
it. After many long discussions, a bit
of calculating and market research,
they both quit their jobs and ventured
back to Engelberg. After a summer of
intense renovations Ski Lodge opened
its doors in December 2008.
To say that things went smoothly
straight away doesn’t really depict the
truth, but what could have been better
in the beginning was made up for with
tons of ambition, eagerness to learn
and smiling faces.
Now, five years later, a lot of memories
have been created within these walls.
Thousands of happy guests, as well as
numerous professional freeskiers, photographers,
new and old friends and
many more have entered our doors.
And not to forget; we’ve had Bocuse
d’Or medallists and Michelin-starred
chefs like Tommy Myllymäki, Paul
Svensson, Niklas Ekstedt and Klas
Lindberg cooking in our kitchen.
We’d like to sincerely welcome you to
Ski Lodge Engelberg. If you have any
questions, suggestions or feedback –
good or bad – please let us know.
As our mantra goes: Skiing is believing.
9

JONNA: Our Manager in Perpetual Motion
Meet Jonna, our hotel manager. You’ve probably seen her
dashing through the lobby. You can’t miss her. She’s the
one with the springy legs and the big smile. On any given
day, you’ll see Jonna rushing to a meeting, or heading out
for some cross-country skiing, ski touring, a run or a hike.
10

It seems like you’re not a big fan of sitting still?
Ha ha. I’ve always been moving a lot. From playing in the
snow as a kid, to high school on the cross-country ski
academy and now I’m running around in the Alps, running
a hotel.
You’ve had similar jobs in Sweden. Why did you move to
Switzerland?
For the bigger mountains and amounts of snow. The skiing
in Sweden is nice, but very small compared to the backyard
here. Ski Lodge is also a “product” I really believe in.
That combination together with the rest of the staff, the Ski
Lodge family, made it easy to move here.
What’s your favourite ski run in Engelberg?
Hinterwald.
And your favourite running trail in the summer?
I love to take the lift to Jochpass and run to Melchsee-Frutt
and back. The view up there is amazing, and it feels kind of
funny to actually run to another ski resort and back.
11

The Man
Dani Friedli
You rarely see him on the streets of Engelberg, but almost everyone knows
who he is. Dani Friedli spends most of his time in his OKAY shop. Located
just 50 meters from the Lodge, this is where Dani practices his jedi skills,
giving new life to damaged skis and snowboards. If you have any equipment
problem, or if you need to rent or purchase gear, Dani is The Man.
12

Don’t get alarmed if you don’t see
Dani when you enter the OKAY
shop. He’s like the man behind
the curtain in the Wizard of Oz.
Wait a moment, and you’ll hear
him shout “Coming,” as he sets
aside a pair of skis that have seen
better days. He’s a superb craftsman,
whose skiing, climbing and
mountain biking skills have earned
him bragging rights, yet Dani’s a
humble guy.
He’s also honest, and he’ll find you
the best skis for your skills, and
not the most expensive ones. We
had a chat with him about equipment,
safety and his favourite runs
on the mountain.
We start with the classic: What’s
the most common mistake people
do when they rent skis?
They don’t rent skis for their own
level. Just because a ski is the most
expensive one, it doesn’t mean it’s
best for every skier. Stiff skis are
another problem. Some like them,
for sure, but most skiers, even good
ones, don’t need that stiff skis.
How has the standard OKAY customer
changed in the last five
years?
Five years ago this was a store
for [freeride] freaks. Now I have
all kinds of customers: From professional
skiers to new beginners.
And five years ago, almost no one
had fat skis. Now the big skis are
so much better, everyone can ski
13

them. Don’t be scared to go big! It’s
easier, I promise.
What’s the most common repair
you do?
The big service. Ha ha. People who
have their own skis are kind of bad
at taking care of them. It’s a shame,
cause skis perform so much better
if they’re in good shape. You can
really see that a ski with proper
edges and good glide turns much
better. Give your skis some love.
It’s a win win.
What’s the trend?
Both powder skis and all mountain
skis are getting wider. The
last year’s development in touring
equipment is also a real revolution,
and has helped more people
discover how easy it is to get off
the beaten track. Nowadays the
touring bindings and boots are so
good, it’s not really any difference
between them and normal bindings
and boots. This helps people
tour more – like small hikes just off
the lift. Safety equipment also becomes
more and more important,
as more people are moving out of
the slopes.
What kind of safety equipment?
Avalanche backpacks have gotten
really popular the last years.
There’s a discussion about people
taking more risks because they
have more safety equipment.
And that’s of course something to
think about – transceivers and avalanche
backpacks can save your
life, but you must remember not to
take more risks cause you’re wearing
them. It’s like driving a car;
you can’t drive like an idiot just
because you wear the seat belt.
The airbag backpacks
also got a lot cheaper and better
the last years. Now they’re just
like a normal ski pack, but with a
small life insurance in it. If you’re
a freerider, I think it makes sense
to add one to the mandatory
“transceiver-shovel-probe”-setup
you always bring.
Talking about touring again.
What’s your favourite small tour
on the mountain?
It may be a boring answer, but the
Wendelücke is so easy accessed,
and it’s such a nice one-hour-tour.
Just make sure you know where
to go down if you don’t have a
guide. Engelberg is a place where
you can’t always follow tracks, and
in Wendelücke you can’t see the
whole run from the top.
What’s your favourite lift accessed
run?
Well. It’s Laub. Of course. Ha ha!
And at last; I need to ask you
about the ski ballet?
Ha ha ha! Ski ballet? Where have
you heard this?! But you know, in
the eighties, if you could be John
Travolta on 140 centimetre skis to
the tunes of classic rock, wearing
a yellow one-piece – you were the
man! It was not really my favourite
though, and since aerials also were
a part of the “ski acrobatique”, I
spent more time doing that.
But really, I think it was all
the same back then as it is now.
Today it’s called freeskiing,
25 years ago it was ski acrobatique.
They’re both something
different though, and that’s what
I love about this part of the ski
world that I’m living in.
14

ski the
BIG5
in engelberg
Every year, powder hounds from
all corners of the globe make
their pilgrimage to the freeride
Mecca known as Engelberg. This
mountain playground boasts five
outstanding runs. Their reputation
precedes them, and for a good reason.
Allow us to introduce you to them.
16

LAUB
The iconic Laub run towers over the town of Engelberg, enticing you to explore its
1000+ vertical meters of deep snow. When this paradise of powder calls your name,
resistance is futile. The run, which maintains a constant 30 to 40 degree pitch, is
several soccer fields wide. There’s enough room for everyone. The more the
merrier! Laub does not pose the technical challenges of its four siblings, but don’t let its
simplicity fool you. Its name, in some Swiss dialects, means “avalanche.” Let the hardcore
locals test the snow stability before you drop in.
The Ritz restaurant sits at the bottom of the run, so reward yourself with
a scrumptious lunch. If you want to go back for more, the owners run a minibus
service, which delivers you to the Gerschnialp gondola station for the ride back up the
mountain.
01 02 03 04 05
17

ZüLS
Three runs – Small, Middle and Big – divide the Züls area of Engelberg. Start with a warm-up on Small. It’s the
only one where you can do laps using only one lift. When you’re almost at the bottom of the run, traverse back
toward the lift, and look up on the huge cliff wall on your left. Imagine what it would feel like doing a 72-meter
high front flip off the edge. Believe it or not, it’s been done. During après, ask a staff member to show you Oskar
Enander’s award winning photography of American mad man Julian Carr, doing just that front flip.
Middle offers the best cliff-jumping zone on the mountain. This is where the local rippers earn their bragging
rights, as they train for competitions and photo shoots. Don’t feel like cliff jumping? No worries. Middle will also
oblige you with splendid terrain for keeping your skis on the ground.
Like a gentle giant, Big offers the mellowest terrain of the three runs, but it’s not without its challenges. Like many
other runs in Engelberg, Big offers something for every type of skier.
01 02 03 04 05
18

WENDELüCKE
Although it’s possible to access parts of Wendelücke directly off the lift, good things
come to those who earn their turns with a bit of hiking. Untouched freshies reward
15 minutes of hiking. Build your endurance before you get here, because 30 to 60
minutes of hiking delivers you to the ultimate powder nirvana. If you decide to ski
a top to bottom run, your legs will need another 10 minutes of hiking endurance, in
order to get back to the lift.
This run, with its splendid views, provides an ideal introduction to the ski
touring experience. A local guide can help you maximise the fun factor.
01 02 03 04 05
19

STEINBERG
Steinberg is the huge off piste run you reach when you step out of the Titlis Rotair,
at the very top of the ski area, 3020 meters above sea level. This run offers endless
options for your downhill journey to Trübsee, where the run ends. Some choose to
enter through the gnarly Gaff, located on the far skier’s right side. Others prefer the
steeps of Never Sun, situated on the skier’s left. Between them lies a billowing area,
where your skiing creativity takes on a life of its own.
From steep chutes to mellow powder fields, Steinberg has it all. You’ll never
get bored, but remember to take the appropriate safety precautions. Parts of this run
are like glacier skiing on steroids. Know your route, and steer clear of the crevasses.
01 02 03 04 05
20

GALTIBERG
Get ready for the biggest of the big ones. Boasting 2000 vertical meters of magic, Galtiberg gives
new meaning to the words “really long run”. From the start of the run, where you can go as fast as
you dare over the open glacier fields, to the
majestic middle part with 500 meter high cliff walls surrounding you, to the end, where your legs
are screaming “Stop!”, but your head is screaming “Again!” – it’s all perfect.
This run is not only a Big 5 in Engelberg; it’s a Big 5 in the world. Easy access combined
with an astonishing diversity of terrain will make it one of the most memorable runs in your
snow-sliding lifetime. Top it off with lunch at Restaurant Wasserfall, or perhaps an après beer while
you await the bus back into town. Galtiberg is huge, so if you’re not skiing with a local, hire a guide.
The map at our bar has instruction about how to access the different Big 5 trails.
Remember, before you go, read the mountain knowledge info on the next page.
01 02 03 04 05
21

Mountain
Knowledge
Most powder hounds would rather talk about
epic runs in deep snow than avalanches and
other dangers on the mountain. Unfortunately,
avoiding the subject does not make it go away.
Avalanches, crevasses and peer pressure are some
of the things you need to know about and watch
out for. Knowledge is power if you want to enjoy
the deep powder snow that covers the steep slopes
of Engelberg. Learn the safety rules, respect the
mountain, and you’ll have an awesome time.
22

The shortcut to all knowledge
Mountain guides are the gurus of the
mountain. They understand it the way you
understand your best friend or significant
other. As such, they remain sensitive to
the mountain’s “moods” and signals, which
allows them to sense danger before it
actually happens.
We recommend all our guests to rent a
mountain guide for at least a day. There’s
no down side to it, and it’s a great short cut
to an expert source of safety knowledge. As
your guide delivers you to the best snow on
the mountain, he or she will answer your
questions about the safest routes, emergency
methods and anything you’ve always
wanted to know about all-mountain skiing.
Avalanches
No matter how much you’re enjoying
your playtime in the deep snow, always
remember that a slide can bring you down.
Certain conditions make this more likely
to happen. They include:
• New snow: With big dumps comes bigger
avalanche danger.
• Wind: Powerful winds can move huge
amounts of snow in short time, turning
some parts of the mountain into
treacherous slide zones.
• Temperature: The snow loses stability
when the mercury suddenly rises on the
thermometer.
Of course, the existence of multiple factors
increases the danger. Learn to read
the mountain and anticipate her nuances.
25

PSSST!
Hiring a Mountain Guide is your best call for a great day. The reception can help you book one.
For example; if you’re about to ski a
south-facing slope, and you see that
another south-facing slope recently
had an avalanche – that’s a bad sign.
Ask as many questions you can to
people you rely on in these matters
– guides, experienced skiers, locals,
etc.
Equipment
Here’s what you must always bring
in your backpack if you go off piste
skiing:
• Transceiver
• Shovel
• Probe
And here are a few other things
there’s no reason to leave behind:
• Avalanche backpack (seen as
mandatory by more and more people)
• First Aid Kit
• Water
• Extra clothes
• Snacks/food
The most important thing here is
that you’re very, very, dialled in with
your transceiver. It’s a common misunderstanding
that anyone can use
this lifesaver straight out of the box.
That’s wrong. It takes practice, and
please don’t be lazy here. Also make
sure that not only you, but also your
riding partners know how to use their
transceivers the right way. It might be
you they’re searching for.
Stay One Step Ahead
Gather and absorb as much knowledge
as possible before you go skiing.
Check the weather and avalanche
forecast. Ask people who ride a lot
on the mountain about the current
conditions. Save the phone number
to Rega (helicopter rescue) in your
phone: 1414. Know what you and
your group of skiers need to do in
case of an emergency or avalanche.
You need to talk about this and practice
with your transceivers, because
panic is your worst enemy on the
mountain.
300KM/H That’s how fast an avalanche can chase you
26

MOUNTAIN KNOWLEDGE
Skiers Behaving Badly
Just say no to reckless mountain
behaviour, despite what your buddies
say about you. Backing away from a
run is never the wrong decision. If
everyone wants to take that run, and
your instincts shout DANGER, convince
the others to see it your way.
Avoid the “We can do one
more run if we really hurry!” attitude,
especially in the late afternoon,
when the light flattens, the temperatures
rise and the snow loses stability.
Go back to the Lodge and enjoy some
après ski instead. Tomorrow is another
day.
Surroundings
Respect the power of even the
smallest avalanche. It might not bury
you, but it can certainly drag you
off a big cliff. Before you start your
run, survey what’s below you, and
check for safe spots for taking short
breaks. Look up before you leap into
the snow, and check to see if anyone
coming up behind you can release
snow in your direction.
Have fun
We didn’t want to scare you with
these words, just make sure you come
home safe to the bar every day. As
long as you use your common sense,
powder skiing might just be the best
thing on the planet. Enjoy it!
27

STAFF
PICKS
Need some inspiration
for tomorrow? Here’s
Engelberg’s best according
to our staff and the locals.
Barbara Keller
Reception Hero
Summer hiking in general, but mainly
on the Brunni side. The Via Ferrata to
Fürenalp is another favourite. In winter
I think everyone should try some
cross-country skiing – a perfect downday
activity for sore muscles. A slope
restaurant you mustn’t miss is the cosy
Brunnthütte.
Lina Bodi Edström
Reception Hero
Julia Palm
Reception Hero
I love the mountainbiking here. The Trudy
Trail from Jochpass to Trübsee is my
favourite, but the tour to Melchsee-Frutt
is probably the most scenic one.
I think summer hiking is underrated.
The trail to Rugghubelhütte is a nice
one. I you feel like hiking a bit longer,
try the trail from Brunni down to
Niederrickenbach. The train takes
you back to Ski Lodge. In winter I like
Laub. The classic. If I can have lunch at
Jochstübli after that, it’s a perfect day!
28

Johan Axelsson
Booking Hero
KURT KURREMAN
Bar Hero
I never get tired of the downhill biking
on Brunni. Nice trails, cows and a magic
view in a perfect combination. In winter
I ride Galtiberg as often as I can. A
smaller darling of mine is the “Alaska
Face” in the Middle Züls. Short and fun
run. A secret? Hike or bike the Surenen
Pass.
I love to paraglide. It’s my summer
passion. The best is to start on Fürenalp
and then paraglide home.
Lars Windlin
Local Hero
Pirmin Kündig
Ski Patrol Hero
My summer favourite is to walk up to
Gross Titlis and speedfly all the way
down to the village. In winter I recommend
everyone to ski Galtiberg, but
take a brake afterwards and have a beer
and/or coffee at Restaurant Wasserfall.
Local secret? My pillow lines. And yes,
they’re a secret. Ha ha.
Since I work in the ski patrol, I get to
wake up the people of Engelberg with
the avalanche control bombing in the
mornings. It’s a sounds that says “it’s
powder today”. A happy sound. In
summer I bike every day, and the après
bike beer tastes best after pedalling up
to Brunnihütte.
29

THE
PHOTO
WIZARD
While other photographers were attending fancy schools and learning
how to do things the way they “should be”, Oskar Enander just spent
more time in the mountains, searching creative angles for his unique
style. It paid off. Today, boasting two Photo of the year awards from
Powder Magazine and Best European Photographer 2013 at IF3, he’s
one of the world’s most renowned ski photographers. We met up with
Oskar to talk about his addiction to brownies, the danger of indoor
soccer, and how you shoot the perfect ski photo.
Congratulations, Oskar. Best ski
photographer in Europe – not bad!
Merci! I’m really happy about it. Especially
since seven out of eight pictures
in my submission are shot on my home
mountain, Engelberg.
And still you just worked half the
season?
Yes. I tore my Achilles’ tendon on the
20th of February, playing indoor soccer
with the bad boys in FC Engelberg.
So now you’re motivated to start
shooting again?
For sure. But actually even more
motivated to go skiing! That’s what I
miss the most.
We heard you’re addicted to brownies.
Is that true?
Addiction is a strong word… Lets just
say I like them from time to time.
How do you shoot the perfect ski
photo?
Shoot an amazing rider making a
great performance in incredible light.
Easy tiger.
Any tips for the amateur photographer?
Shoot more.
Are you going to play in FC Engelberg
this winter?
I think I’m gonna be a bit more
involved in the coaching.
Good luck with that, and with the
shooting!
Thanks!
30

31
SVERRE LILIEQUIST | ENGSTLEN

ELIEL HINDERT | NELSON, BC

MATTIAS HARGIN | HASLITAL

JAMIE PIERRE | JACKSON HOLE
BUY ME!
All pictures in this gallery
and on the walls of Ski Lodge
are possible to buy.
Ask how at the front desk.

OLOF LARSSON | ENGELBERG

YVES HUESLER | ENGELBERG

WILLE LINDBERG | ENGELBERG
BUY ME!
All pictures in this gallery
and on the walls of Ski Lodge
are possible to buy.
Ask how at the front desk.

EarN
YOUR TURNS
>>

ditions often surprise and delight the unsuspecting
skier. The intermediate run provides a
pleasant descent, but check the temperatures
on the south-facing side of the hike. Warmer
temperatures can create a slushy, potentially
dangerous, climb. Our advice for this run is to
ski all the way to Rossboden Hütte (just make
sure this charming little restaurant is open) and
treat yourself with a lunch in the sun. Their
“Huiswurst” is really good.
- A small tour from the top of the resort leads
to the “real” Titlis apex. Pause for a moment,
and feast your eyes on an amazing panorama.
Then, enjoy a short but sweet run back into
the ski area. Don’t, however, let it’s sweetness
distract you from potential hazards. This is
glacier skiing above the resort, so make sure
it’s safe conditions, both for yourself and the
people below you.
- Are you an experienced skier craving the
adventure of a lifetime? Contact the guide
agency and set up a Titlis Round Tour. This
full-day mission rewards participants with long,
spectacular runs in awe-inspiring surroundings.
Not sure if ski touring is for you? Rent the equipment,
hire a guide and try it for an afternoon.
Most likely you’ll like it, and the worst case
scenario is that you get a workout that will make
the après beer taste even better. Not a bad deal.
45

GEAR WE LIKE
1
2
3
5
4
1. PEAK PERFORMANCE R&D Gloves
2. PEAK PERFORMANCE W’s Heli Alpine Jkt
3. KASK Mask 4
4. KASK Thrillers Compression Sock
5. MAMMUT Barryvox Element Kit
46

8
6
7
9
10 11
6. PEAK PERFORMANCE M’s Heli Chilkat Jkt
7. THE NORTH FACE Patrol 24 ABS
8. BLIZZARD Bodacious
9. LIFESYSTEMS First Aid Kid
10. TECNICA Cochise 130 Pro
11. POC Fornix
47

SUMMER IN
ENGELBERG
“To everything, there is a season, and a
time to every purpose, under heaven. Turn!
Turn! Turn!” When the lifts stop turning,
and the skiers make their last turn down the
mountain, a new season, with new purposes,
begins in the hills and valleys of Engelberg. In
fact, many locals might tell you that they came
for the winter but stayed for the summers.
Intrigued? Read on!
48

49
BRUNNI

HAHNEN
Hiking is practically synonymous
with Switzerland. Once you visit
the mountains of Engelberg, you’ll
understand why. Summer’s arrival
transforms the fluffy, white powdered
slopes into lush green fields. Cows
roam the pastures, and wild mountain
flowers adorn the hills.
A glance at the local map
reveals a diversity of long and short
hiking trails. Estimated time is
marked on the map. One of our
favourites is the three-hour-walk to
Rugghubelhütte. Don’t miss their
homemade fruitcake!
BRUNNI
FÜRENALP
If you feel like upping the sweat-level,
those hiking trails are also perfect for
trail running. Once you run along
a mountain trail, you’ll never want
to back to pounding the pavements.
Escape the air- and noise pollution,
and treat your lungs to the fresh
mountain environment. We promise
that you won’t find a more inspiring
running venue.
Rather ride a road bike than walk
or run? No problem. Many small and
steep asphalt roads wind through
Engelberg, making you feel like
you’re in a small Tour de Swiss. For
a longer ride, bike down to Stans and
back – the hairpin curves provide an
unparalleled adrenaline rush, both on
the way down and up! If that sounds
exhausting, there’s no shame in
taking the train one of the directions.
Engelberg also offers a variety of
options for mountain biking. If you
don’t like to bike uphill, Jochpass
and Gerschnialp have downhill trails.
Just take to the lift back to the top
after every run.
Cross-country biking enthusiasts
will discover 14 different trails
around Engelberg, most of them going
up the valley. If you wonder where
50

FÜRENALP
the cheese at our breakfast comes
from, take the one going to the Stäfeli
Farm.
Those who prefer tours and
single tracks will find multiple hiking
trails that are also great for biking.
Bike up, or take the lift and save your
energy for the downhill ride.
Via Ferrata suits those who yearn
to explore the rock-climbing experience,
but are new to the sport. A
series of fixed ladders, bridges and
stemples provide a safe initiation into
the world of rock climbing, but you
will need the proper equipment. Hire
a mountain guide for your first day on
the rocks. It’s worth it.
Engelberg’s summer delights extend
beyond the mountains. Other
activities include indoor and outdoor
swimming, bungy jumping,
white water rafting, canyoning, golf,
paragliding and more.
If you need a city fix, a one-hour train
ride brings you to Lucerne and two
hours delivers you to Zurich.
No matter what activity you want to
do during your stay in Engelberg, our
staff can share their favourite places,
and offer insider tips and tricks about
where to go and how to get there.
51

RUN TO THE HILLS
Ski Lodge Engelberg is proud to announce our latest partner, the travel company
Swiss Alpine Explorers. We asked the founders who they are, what they do, and what
makes them special.
We’re entrepreneurs, elite runners and triathletes who have been working in the
financial sector a long time. Recently, we decided to break out of our cubicles and
return to our running and cycling roots.
What exciting activities do you have in store
for us in Engelberg?
We plan to arrange trail running, sky-running
and road biking camps at Ski Lodge. We’ll offer:
• Easy style guiding and coaching on drop-inbasis.
• More structured trainings camps in conjunction
with Running Sweden
• Extended bike trips to classic mountain passes
where we provide escort vehicles, coaching and
timekeeping on famous climbs.
• Trips to some of the most famous races in
Switzerland.
• In short: We want to share our passion for
running and biking.
Why Engelberg?
Through our camps we want to show people the
inspiring surroundings in this area. It’s a trail–
and sky-running Mecca.
Why a camp?
Lots of people think “everybody can run or
ride a bike”. But that would be just like saying
“everybody can ski”. Elite runners and bikers
coach our camps. You benefit from their expertise,
as well as a supportive environment filled
with passionate runners and cyclists.
Will I run faster than my training buddy when
I get back home?
Ha ha. We sure hope you will.
For more information and coming updates, please visit the our web page or swissalpineexplorers.com
52

downday
hitlist
Whether you need a day to adjust to the altitude, or you
simply want to take a break from skiing or riding, Engelberg
offers a diversity of exciting activities. Here’s our hit list.
54

SPORTING PARK
After an invigorating day on the slopes, your legs might suffer from “hurts so good syndrome”
Sometimes, performing a different activity works better than simply resting. We recommend a
visit to Engelberg’s activity center, called the Sporting Park. Step through its doors, and you’ll
discover diversions such as ice-skating, curling, climbing, gym, tennis and badminton. If you’d
rather be outside, the cross-country trails run next to the Sporting Park. No gear? No problem.
The sporting park rents equipment. Stretch your legs at the end of the day, and you’ll be ready to
return to the mountain the next morning.
LUCERNE
A one-hour train ride from Engelberg delivers you to Lucerne, where you can take a relaxing stroll
through the streets of Old Town. Home to Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge, Lucerne is also
known for its lovely old houses, and the Läderach chocolate shop.
TAKE A SWIM
If you feel like taking a swim, the pool at Hotel Waldegg’s spa has the best view. If size matters,
Eienwäldli is the biggest one. Lap swimmers will enjoy the 25-meter pool at Schwimmbad. If you
want to go big, you can take the one-hour-drive to Alpamare – the biggest covered water park in
Europe. Fun? Fun!
VISIT THE NEIGHBORING RESORTS
Engelberg is our favorite, and will always be. But if the mountain is closed for some reason, or
if you want to try something else, there are several great ski resorts withing a 100 km radius.
Andermatt, Mürren, Airolo, Grindelwald and Wengen are some of them.
THE MONASTERY
The monastery was founded in 1120 by Konrad von Sellenbüren, in case you were wondering
where our restaurant got its name. Take a seat and enjoy the tranquil silence. After satisfying your
spiritual needs, take a walk past the cheese factory and treat yourself to a local delicacy. Guided
tours available.
55

COMPANY
EVENTS
THE SKI LODGE
WAY
Do the words “conference
hotel” give you the chills? We
don’t blame you! Although
Ski Lodge has hosted many
excellent conferences, we’re far
from your typical conference
hotel.
In travel agent lingo, conference hotels,
usually located in the downtown areas of
major cities, offer large rooms, specifically
designated for meetings and conventions.
If you’ve attended a conference at such
a hotel, you’ve probably noticed that the
meeting rooms are bland in décor and
devoid of any interesting views. Furthermore,
the mere size of these hotels necessitates
service that is courteous, but rarely
friendly and personal.
Although meeting planners believe that
this prevents distraction among the
attendees, we strongly disagree. In our
opinion, spending a few days locked up
in a regular “conference hotel” stifles
creativity, because new ideas are not
hatched within uninspiring surroundings.
In contrast, the results of a study
published in 2012 proved that spending
four days in a natural environment can
improve creativity and problem solving by
50 percent.
57

“At the Ski Lodge, we
offer aNOTHER way.”
At the Ski Lodge, we offer another
way. Your “working vacation”
begins when our personable staff
members welcome you at checkin.
Got a question about secret
powder stashes, or the best ski
shops in town? Just ask. These
folks love to talk about all things
in Engelberg.
The next morning, the cheerful
wait staff gets up bright and early
to serve you a hearty breakfast.
Everyone eats together in the
dining area. This communal eating
creates a bonding experience.
Compare that to the traditional
conference hotel, where people
randomly rush into the hotel coffee
shop, hoping to get served in
time to make their meeting.
After your morning session, go
out to ski, hike or bike through
the mountains. Come back for
a brainstorming session before
dinner. That’s how you free your
mind and get the most out of a
business meeting. Call it a conference
if you want, or just a very
productive vacation. It’s up to you.
“Yay, teambuilding!”
58

Mountain man
Local mountain guide Thomas Odermatt is climbing
7000-meter peaks in South America in summertime, but
it’s the winters in Engelberg he enjoys the most. We asked
him about the basics when it comes to hiring a guide.
Why should you rent a mountain guide?
To stay safe and find the best runs on the
mountain, of course, and to find the best
skiing every different day, depending on
conditions. If freeriding is the best option,
we do that. If ski touring is better, we go
for a hike. We also offer the access to try
something different, which might be hard
to find without a mountain guide.
How does it work?
Just pay us a visit in the guide office, and
we talk about what you want to do, so that
we can plan the best day for your desire. If
you have any questions in advance, send a
mail to info@engelbergmountainguide.ch.
Which is your favorite run in Engelberg?
Galtiberg. But I really appreciate the
Brunni side too. I think it’s underrated.
Are there any special places you never
show your guests?
No, actually not. I take my guests everywhere.
It only depends on the level of their
skiing. But I tell them not to tell the others
where we have been. Ha ha.
59

asserie
Konrad
Ever since our first chef Peter “Rukas”
Hallor opened the doors to our restaurant we’ve
maintained the same culinary philosophy:
Tasty, modern cuisine with no short-cuts. We’ve
always made everything from scratch, and we’ll
continue doing that. Why? Because it just tastes
that much better.
Despite our French and Nordic-inspired menu,
our ingredients come from nearby; often from
the same valley as the Ski Lodge. Of course, our
location makes this an easy task. Switzerland
boasts an abundance of fresh, local produce.
Every valley has its signature wine and beer
and ecological beef farm. As for cheese, forget
what passes for Swiss cheese in your home
country’s supermarkets. Nothing compares with
the cheese produced in Switzerland!
Our sommelier has extensive knowledge of the
wines of the world, but the Swiss keep the best
for themselves. Even though the Swiss are not
major players in the wine export game, they
somehow manage to win many awards. Treat
your palate to a Merlot from the Ticino region
– which boasts some of the world’s best – or
savour a Pinot Noir from Valais.
Every year, we also invite internationally
renowned star chefs to pay Konrad a visit. For
example, the last couple of years we had Bocuse
d’Or silver medallist Tommy Myllymäki and
Culinary Olympics gold medallist Klas Lindberg
working in our kitchen. During those days, our
always-tasty meals received standing ovations!
Last but not least, our Skier’s Dinner plays
a starring role in the Konrad menu. This prix
fixe meal offers value and high quality, because
we choose the ingredients based on the best
produce we find in the market on that
particular day. After a day on the slopes, nothing
satisfies a skier’s voracious appetite like the
Skier’s Dinner!
61

Hans made dinner
for Bill Clinton
Anna Karin Haglund
knows what’s cooking
After enjoying your Skier’s Dinner, you’ll
probably want to send your compliments
to the chef. Hans Höglund will appreciate
it. He’s been a member of the Swedish
National Culinary Team and boasts a
variety of World Cup victories and Olympic
medals. We asked him a couple of questions
about his culinary philosophy, and his
experience serving celebrities.
What are the basic thoughts behind your
cooking?
The guest should notice that every dish is
cooked with love, and that salt and pepper
aren’t needed on the table.
What is it like being a member of the
Swedish National Culinary Team?
Hectic, but also very, very fun!
Who is the most famous person you’ve
cooked for?
I’ve cooked for the Swedish King a few times,
and the Prime Minister. But most famous… I
guess that would be Bill Clinton.
“AK” has worked as a sommelier at Guide
Michelin-rewarded Esperanto in Stockholm.
She was also one of the founders of
the renowned Fäviken Magasinet outside
Åre. Lucky for us, she is now the Food
& Beverage Manager at Ski Lodge. Her
job keeps her racing between the bar, the
restaurant and the office, but we managed
to detain her long enough to chat with her
about food, wine and running a restaurant
in Switzerland.
What’s the best thing about running a
restaurant in Switzerland?
The nearness to local produce of highest
possible quality. First of all from our own
valley, but also from our inspirational roots
in France and Italy.
What’s your favourite dish on the menu?
Steak tartare.
If you could only recommend one Swiss
wine – which would it be?
Hmmm… I’d go for a Merlot from the
Trapletti family. We’re very happy we found
this small producer from the Ticino area.
Excellent wines.
If one would book a culinary trip to
Engelberg, when is the best time to visit?
Always! Ha ha. But for something extra;
check our web page for news about the
guest chef appearances. If you think wine is
more important, look for the wine maker’s
dinners – it’s a menu custom made after a
number of wines, instead of the opposite.
62

information
All our ROOMS have en-suite
bathrooms, LCD TV and free
WiFi. Our towels are changed
every fourth day, or more often
on request.
The RECEPTION is open daily
from 7.30am until late. If you
have any questions after hours,
you can always ask the bartender,
or call +41 78 675 33 66.
BREAKFAST is served from 7am
to 10am.
The BAR is open from 4pm on
weekdays, and 3pm on weekends.
Our RESTAURANT BRASSERIE
KONRAD is open daily. Choose
between à la carte selections or
a prix fixe three course Skier’s
Dinner.
SMOKING is of course strictly
prohibited inside Ski Lodge. If
you ignore this, you will have
500 CHF less to spend on the
après ski.
Avoid the queues at base station
and purchase your SKI PASS
at our reception desk.
Please leave your ski equipment
in the SKI AND BOOT ROOM in the
64

lue house basement. We’ve
even installed boot warmers for
you!
Fancy a SAUNA AND HOT TUB?
Our reception staff can book an
appointment for you.
Hiring a MOUNTAIN GUIDE assures
a safe and fantastic day
on the mountain. The reception
staff can help you book one.
RENTAL SKIS are available at
several places. Our front desk
staff can help you find the best
option for your needs.
We have eight PARKING spots
in front of the hotel. If they are
occupied, ask the staff for
closest option.
The name of our FREE WiFi is
Ski Lodge and the password
is Nagano98. Surf around,
but please wait until you get
home before you download
five seasons of True Blood.
In case of EMERGENCY, call 144
for an ambulance or 117 for the
police. If there’s a FIRE, stay
calm and follow the instructions
listed on the inside of the door.
Fire extinguishers are located by
the staircase on every floor.
Our dear Powder Express minibus
provides AIRPORT TRANSFER
in a bit more than one hour.
Although the train to the airport
leaves from outside the hotel,
you’ll have to add another hour
to the trip.
If you want to EAT OUT or experience
the vibrant Engelberg
NIGHT LIFE, our reception staff
will clue you in with latest and
greatest info on where to go.
For FOOD AND DRINK SHOPPING,
the COOP is open 7.30 am to
19.00 pm on weekdays, to
18.00 on Saturdays and 17.00
on Sundays. During the offseason,
the COOP is closed on
Sundays.

TEAM RIDER OSCAR SCHERLIN IN FRONT OF MATTIAS FREDRIKSSON’S CAMERA ON THE 2013 PHOTO SHOOT
CLOTHING PARTNERS IN CRIME
In 2012, Peak Performance and Ski Lodge Engelberg started working
together as partners for clothing, photo shoots and events. If you’ve noticed our
snazzy looking staff, they are all dressed in the latest and greatest pieces of
apparel from Peak Performance. Just like Ski Lodge, Peak Performance was
founded by a couple of friends who wanted to challenge the current state of
things, and get to ski more in between work days. That was 1986 in the northerly
Åre in Sweden. Now Peak Performance has grown and is sold in more
than 40 countries all over the world. Check out peakperformace.com for more
information, or just to buy a new Gore-Tex-jacket.
66

Ruchstock
2811
Engelberger
Rotstock
2818
Schonegg
2040
Brunnihütte
1860
Rigidalalp
Panoramaweg
Rodelbahn
Yeti-Park
Ristis
1606
Schwand
Horbis
Bergli
Flühmatt
Gschneit
Luzern
Hahnen
2606
PISTE MAP | ENGELBERG
Titlis
3239
Gr. Spannort
3198
Kl. Spannort
3140
Stotzig Egg
Ice Flyer
Gletscherlift
Rotstöckli
Rotair
Rotegg
Fürenalp
1850
2450
Stand
2428
Laubersgrat
Laub
Rindertitlis
Neuschwändi
Klostermatte
Globis Winterland
Eienwäldli
Trübsee
1800
Rutschpark
Kloster
Ritz
Museum
Engelberg
1050
Sporting Park
Sprungschanze
Nachtloipe
Gerschnialp
1262
Bahnhof
Sporthalle Ror
Klein Titlis
3028
Steinberg
Trübsee-Hopper
Untertrübsee
Reissend Nollen
3003
Jochstock
2564
Jochstock Xpress
Obstacle-Park
Jochpass
2207
Speedstrecke
Jochpass
Graustock
Alpstübli
Obertrübsee
Älplerseil
Kanonenrohr
Standard
Engstlenalp

SKI LODGE ENGELBERG
BAKSIDA
Phone: +41 41 637 35 00
Erlenweg 36, ch-6390 engelberg
info@skilodgeengelberg.com
skilodgeengelberg.com
THANK YOU FOR READING