Alpe di Siusi Magazine

Summer 2011 

ALPE 

Alpe di Siusi Magazine 

Castelrotto · Siusi allo Sciliar · Alpe di Siusi · Fiè allo Sciliar 

Paul’s sheep 

Irish Passion 

Closer to God 

The Sciliar Church Day 

In the witches’ forest 

Feast for all senses 

All around 

Mountain biker on tour 

www.alpedisiusi.info

Mit vollem Einsatz. 

Massimo impegno. 

Editorial & Contents 

Werbemitteilung / Messaggio pubblicitario 

Ziele erreichen. 

Der Erfolg hat viele Väter. Harte Arbeit, voller Einsatz und mentale Stärke sind nicht nur im Sport entscheidend. Raiffeisen 

fördert den Südtiroler Sport und ist auch der richtige Partner in allen finanziellen Bereichen. So kommen Sie sicher ans Ziel. 

Raggiungere gli obiettivi. 

Il successo è la sintesi di numerosi fattori. Duro lavoro, massimo impegno e forza mentale non sono determinanti solo nello 

sport. Raiffeisen, il partner giusto in tutte le questioni finanziarie, sostiene lo sport locale per consentirvi di raggiungere sempre 

il vostro traguardo. 

Agencies: 

Castelrotto 

Phone: 0471 711 711 

E-Mail: cra.castelrotto@raiffeisen.it 

Oltretorrente 

Phone: 0471 711 800 

E-Mail: cra.oltretorrente@raiffeisen.it 

www.raiffeisencastelrotto.it 

Siusi 

Phone: 0471 711 700 

E-Mail: cra.siusi@raiffeisen.it 

Roncadizza 

Phone: 0471 711 811 

E-Mail: cra.roncadizza@raiffeisen.it 

Alpe di Siusi 

Phone: 0471 727 944 

E-Mail: cra.castelrotto@raiffeisen.it 

Dear friends. 

Action, adventure, Alpe living: whether 

hiking, climbing, running and biking, 

paragliding, swimming, enjoying a 

typical snack or taking a relaxing hay 

bath, on the Alpe di Siusi holiday ideas are endless. 

Whatever you do, during your whole holiday 

you will forget your daily routine. The articles on 

the following pages may be an incentive to try 

something different from the usual: unforgettable 

thrills are guaranteed. 

We have once more put together some interesting 

articles for gourmets, culture buffs, sports enthusiasts 

and families in this magazine. The main 

topic is the legendary Parish Feast at Rifugio Bolzano, 

prepared by a beautiful excursion on South 

Tyrol’s symbol mountain Sciliar. Enjoy the barefoot 

trip to the Witches’ Springs, take a walk to 

the idyllic hamlet Tagusa, or make a mountain bike 

tour to the “Rifugio Alpe di Tires” ideal for mountain 

bike lovers. Those who love culture will get an 

interesting view of traditional costumes reading 

the article “Girls wear the crown”. And the article 

“A walk with Martha the witch” speaks about a 

thrilling night spent in Castelrotto together with 

Martha, the witch who will make a short portrait 

of herself. Who is the Wiedner farmer and what do 

his sheep do? And who is the woman behind the 

Golf club Castelrotto-Alpe di Siusi? On the following 

pages you will get the answers. We wish you a 

nice “reading” trip. 

We wish you a happy and relaxing holiday of wellness 

and unforgettable moments. 

Eduard Tröbinger Scherlin - President 

for Alpe di Siusi Marketing and the Tourist 

offices of Castelrotto, Siusi allo Sciliar, 

Alpe di Siusi and Fiè allo Sciliar 

Page 04 

Closer to God: 

Sciliar Church Day 

Page 10 

Wandering sheep: 

Farmer Wiedner Paul 

Page 14 

The Santner Spire: 

A precise chronometer 

Page 16 

Tagusa near Castelrotto 

A scene from a postcard 

Page 20 

Mountain biking all around 

Highlight “Alpe di Tires Tour” 

Page 24 

Through the witches’ forest: 

Sulphur springs in Saltria 

Page 26 

Interview with Martha, 

the “good” witch 

Page 28 

Maso Front in Aica di Fiè: 

A destination for bon vivants 

Page 34 

The virginal gown 

of Castelrotto 

Page 36 

A charming boss 

Portrait of Nina Urthaler 

Page 38 

Summer Highlights ‘11 

Page 40 

Food Festivals ’11 

Page 41 

Winter Preview ’11/12 

Page 42 

Around & About 

Summer | ALPE 3

Following the cross: 

Procession on the 

Sciliar mountain. 

Closer to God 

The well-known festival of dedication known as Sciliar Church Day is celebrated in August 

on the Sciliar massif. For the people of Fiè this is now a popular tradition, while for many 

visitors from near and far it is a welcome opportunity to meet new and old friends up 

on the mountain. Here is a snapshot of the 2010 Sciliar Church Day. 

Text: Elisabeth Augustin 

Photo: Helmuth Rier 

» 

» 

» 

4 ALPE | Summer 

Summer | ALPE 5

The atmosphere in the legendary 

Rifugio Bolzano Hut is a 

cheerful mixture of joyful expectation 

and tense final moments. 

On the eve of Sciliar 

Church Day, a gradual stream of visitors, exhausted 

from the climb, but in a good mood 

nonetheless, staggers in while the two wardens, 

Silvia and Harald Gasser, make the last 

preparations with their hardworking team. 

The spectacular sunset draws a group of excited 

Japanese tourists outdoors, trying to 

catch the evening red of the Catinaccio range 

with their cameras. Also on the day before, Father 

Josef Profanter, the “Priest of the Sciliar”, 

has discussed the last details of the mass with 

sacristan Richard Mahlknecht before ending 

the evening enjoying something to eat and a 

drop of wine with friends who have come up 

from the Pusteria Valley. Music rings out from 

the large dining area and the accordion and 

trumpet are spontaneously joined by other instruments. 

The party mood encourages dancers 

onto the floor, while those who prefer 

to remain seated sing along heartily to wellknown 

melodies. 

At least in theory, 10 pm is lights out time, 

but on this special occasion it will take quite 

a while before the last lights are extinguished 

in the Rifugio Bolzano Hut. Snatching a few 

hours’ sleep at the low mountain temperatures 

and unaccustomed altitude of over 

2,400 metres is an achievement in itself. From 

5.30 a.m. onwards the Rifugio Bolzano Hut is 

transformed into a hive of activity: mountainlovers 

excitedly make their way outdoors to 

watch the unforgettable spectacle of the sunrise, 

while in the hut kitchens the sounds of 

morning preparations can already be heard. 

Enjoying a substantial breakfast in the Rifugio 

Bolzano Hut, guests can enjoy the panorama 

of the Dolomite rock towers, spires and 

summits of the Catinaccio, Corno Bianco and 

Corno Nero mountains. Klara, the sacristan’s 

wife, adjusts Father Sepp’s traditional blue 

apron before he descends to the chapel. All is 

now ready on this splendid Saturday morning 

for the traditional Sciliar Church Day. 

Symbolic mountain 

Over 2,500 metres high, visible from far 

and wide and with an unmistakable silhouette, 

the Sciliar radiates its presence 

across the land as the symbolic mountain 

of South Tyrol. The history of the 

origins of the world-famous Dolomites 

is nowhere so alive as it is here. The Sciliar 

is a petrified coral reef: the immediate 

proximity of rock-forming reefs and 

enormous volcanic eruptions under the 

surface of the large primeval sea caused 

the creation of such contrasting forms. 

The huge variation in its appearance is 

the main attraction of this mountain. 

Over Fiè rise the pale walls of the Sciliar 

dolomite. From Siusi and Castelrotto the 

Sciliar stands in the western Dolomites 

with its impressive double Santner and 

Euringer spires. At any time of the year 

or day, whether shrouded in clouds or 

mist, lit by bright sunshine or in the 

dawn light, the Sciliar has for thousands 

of years drawn people into its spell. 

Rifugio Bolzano Hut 

The Rifugio Bolzano Hut has a great tradition 

among Alpine clubs. From the 

middle of June until the beginning of 

October, mountain enthusiasts from all 

over the world meet here. The refuge 

offers some 100 beds, and the summit 

cross is easily reached in approximately 

20 minutes. The view in good weather 

from the Petz, the summit at 2,653 metres, 

is not easily forgotten. From here it 

is possible to see the Ortles-Cevedale 

group and the more distant Dolomite 

summits such as Pelmo and Civetta. The 

plants of the high-Alpine and Arctic regions 

that grow on the grassy stretches 

of the Sciliar also merit special attention: 

here can be found Alpine thrift 

(“Sciliar witches”), primroses, edelweiss, 

Rhaetian alpine poppies and various 

kinds of gentian. 

In Saint Cassian’s 

honour the bells ring 

and call to pray. 

At the same time, down in the valley, a few 

residents of Fiè are beginning the laborious 

ascent via the steep Prügelsteig path up 

the Sciliar Gorge. They will stop and meditate 

briefly at the wayside crosses. The Sessel 

Hut is a good opportunity to slake their 

initial thirst and gather strength before tackling 

the remainder of the way. A little later, at 

the “Schrotten” weather cross, the believers 

form a procession around the Catholic Men’s 

Movement and follow the cross humbly carried 

up front by Paul from the Moarhof farm. 

The praying group is received at the Chapel 

of St. Cassian with the sound of bells ringing 

out and a fresh breeze. A large group gathers 

there in the wonderful open-air amphitheatre 

to praise and thank the Lord God. 

“On the Sciliar we are a little closer to God 

and can leave the troubles of everyday life 

behind”, explains Father Josef, who has been 

coming here regularly since 1980 to celebrate 

the Schlernkirchtig (Sciliar Church Day) with 

the people of Fiè. Musical accompaniment is 

provided by the Völser Böhmische band and 

their opposite numbers from the twin city 

of Friedberg, Bavaria, who have for decades 

been a feature of Sciliar Church Day and always 

send a large delegation to the festivities. 

The 13 August (the “Kaschestog”) is the feast 

day of Saint Cassian, martyred in Imola during 

the time of the Christian persecutions 

(around 304). The chapel on the Sciliar is dedicated 

to Cassian, the legendary first bishop 

of Sabiona, and his feast day has been celebrated 

each year for generations on the Saturday 

before 13 August. The chapel, dedicated 

to both Saint Cassian and the Mother of God, 

was built around 1797 by Maria Kritzinger 

from the Deimlhof farm in Umes as thanks 

for the rescue of cattle on the Sciliar. 

Father Josef acknowledges the Sciliar mountain 

in his sermon as a symbol of South Tyrol 

and recalls the significance of the pasturelands 

on the Sciliar, used since time immemorial 

by the farmers of Fiè for cattle grazing. 

Standing at the altar, which has been lovingly » 

6 ALPE | Summer Summer | ALPE 7

The Rifugio Bolzano Hut at 2457m above sea level 

offers a breathtaking panorama of the Dolomites (up), 

with King Laurin’s Catinaccio mountain (down). 

decorated with meadow flowers and candles, 

he also speaks of the ancient places of worship 

from pre-Christian times. Sacrifices were made 

on the Sciliar in supplication of God’s grace. Today 

the priest also includes the requests of the 

farmers and herdsmen in his service and prays 

for the protection of the cattle, whose bells are 

audible in the background. Certain special anniversaries 

are also commemorated: 125 years 

of the Rifugio Bolzano Hut, 35 years of the Gasser 

family as tenants of the Rifugio Bolzano Hut, 

25 years of Richard Mahlknecht’s service as sacristan 

on the Sciliar Church Day are all cause for 

celebration. Anniversaries are a gift of God. Towards 

the end of the devotions, the priest makes 

a short reference to the friendly staff of the Rifugio 

Bolzano Hut, who will in a few minutes have 

their hands full once the religious part of the 

Church Day comes to an end. 

The happy gathering now leaves the natural 

arena in front of the Chapel of St. Cassian, arriving 

at the Rifugio Bolzano Hut after a 10-minute 

climb. There the merry guests are met with 

kirchtagskrapfen (pastries prepared specially for 

Church Day) and all sorts of other local specialities. 

Both inside and outside the Rifugio Bolzano 

Hut, people are celebrating, eating, drinking, 

making music and laughing. Chairs and benches 

are packed, while in front of the kitchen a crowd 

gathers around Harald and his spirited wife Silvia 

to drink a toast to this special day. “Thanks 

Sciliar paths 

Several paths lead up the Sciliar mountain, some of them many centuries old. Fiè, Siusi, Castelrotto and the Alpe di Siusi (Tourist Path) 

to the participation of so many people from Fiè 

are all possible starting points for Sciliar tours. The Alpe di Siusi mountain pasture can also be reached from Tires. (In summer 2011, 

and faithful friends from near and far, we have 

the path via the Sciliar Gorge above Fiè is mostly closed for repairs. Make sure you have the right information before choosing your route!) 

once more successfully staged this special celebration”, 

enthuses Silvia. “It has only been possible 

because so many have helped us and put 

> Fiè di Sopra - Lake Laghetto di Fiè > Umes - Rifugio Monte Cavone > Siusi - Bad Ratzes - Malga 

> Compaccio (or top of Spitzbühel 

- Malga Tuff Hut - Peterfrag - 

Hut - Croda del Maglio - Monte Prossliner Hut - Malga Saltner lift) - Malga Saltner Hut - Rifugio 

such a big effort into this day.” If the weather too 

Malga Sessel Hut - Rifugio 

Cavaccio saddle - Rifugio 

Hut - Rifugio Bolzano Hut: 

Bolzano Hut (the “Tourist Path”): 

Bolzano Hut - Petz: 

Bolzano Hut: 

Demanding and sometimes difficult 

path. Time: around 4.5 hours. Height difference: 600 m. 

– the sun is shining on the Rifugio Bolzano Hut, 

Time: approximately 3 hours. 

co-operates and – as on this unforgettable day 

a long ascent (about 5 hours), 

this path requires absolute 

climbing some 1,000 metres from sure-footedness and freedom 

Descent to Fiè: Sessel Hut - 

the picture is complete. 

Fiè to the highest point of the from vertigo. Hard and 

> Siusi - Malghetta Sciliar Hut - the wild, romantic Sciliar Gorge - 

Sciliar plateau. Difficulty: medium, sometimes difficult climb. 

Rifugio Bolzano Hut. 

Malga Tuff Hut - Lake Laghetto 

but strenuous due to its length. Time: approximately 5 hours. 

Return via Malga Saltner Hut di Fiè. Time: approximately 3 hours. 

Gradually the mountain climbers shoulders their 

and Malga Prossliner Hut: 

Height difference: 1,420 m. 

backpacks and begin to make their way home. 

> Fiè - Umes - Rifugio Hofer Alpl > Aica di Fiè (Schönblick) - 

Return via Malga Saltner Hut 

The return to Fiè may take rather longer, as on 

Hut - Schäufelesteig Path - 

Path No. 7 under the Croda 

and Malga Prossliner Hut. 

> Lavina Bianca - Orsara - 

this special day the huts and refreshment stations 

on the way down must be visited in order 

Rifugio Bolzano Hut: 

del Maglio - Peterfrag - Malga Demanding, relatively steep path. Valle di Ciamin - Aichnerstall - 

the ascent via the Schäufele path is Sessel Hut - Rifugio Bolzano Hut: Time: around 4.5 hours. 

San Cassiano - Rifugio 

very steep and, particularly on the Difficult path that 

Bolzano Hut: 

to try out more krapfen, wine and schnapps. 

descent, sure-footedness and 

requires sure-footedness. 

> Compaccio - Panorama - Forcella Difficult path that 

Kirchtag only comes once a year, after all. One 

climbing experience are required. Time: approximately 3 hours. 

dei Denti di Terrarossa gorge - requires sure-footedness. 

thing is for sure – many of the visitors will be 

Time: about 5 hours. Descent: possibly 

via the Knüppel path. Only for 

di Terrarossa summit - Rifugio 

Rifugio Alpe di Tires Hut - Cima Time: approximately 3 hours. 

coming back! « 

experienced mountaineers! 

Bolzano Hut: 

wonderful but demanding 

panoramic path. 

8 ALPE | Summer Time: approximately 4 hours. 

Praying for the protection 

of nature, humans and cattle.

Wandering 

sheep 

The adventures of Paul and his flock from the Wiedner Farm 

Text: Rosa Maria Erlacher 


» 

Paul does not have to call his sheep: all he 

needs to do is stand there swinging a bucket 

of salt, and soon the sheep come trotting 

over to him, bleating as they go. “It is not always like 

this”, explains the farmer from the Wiedner Farm, 

who owns the pastureland next to the dairy hut, 

“but with the arrival of the bad weather, and snow 

falling on the mountains, my sheep just prefer to 

graze down here.” Down here means the meadows 

at the foot of the bizarrely-shaped Denti di Terrarossa 

mountain chain, where the gently rolling Alpe 

di Siusi abruptly becomes the steep slopes of the 

Sciliar massif. A fence and a rocky streambed separate 

the sheep and cattle pastures. 

Searching for sheep. Every evening, after finishing 

his work on the farm, Paul drives up to the pasture 

in his jeep to look for the livestock: the horses, 

cows, calves and 40 sheep. And it is then that he 

often gets a shock: not a single sheep in sight, at 

least as far as he can see through his spy-glass. 

“Well, that’s when I just have to go and look for 

them up on the Sciliar, or wherever else they might 

be”, he tells us. Because when the weather is good, 

the sheep climb further and further up, led by the 

most “sensible” sheep that wear bells to allow Paul 

to hear them from far away. 

During summer up on the meadow, he often has 

to climb far up the Sciliar late at night or up to the 

hut at the bottom of the summit path to retrieve 

his small flock. They are usually fit and well; in 

stormy or cold weather the flock stays together and 

searches for shelter. Animals are seldom struck by 

lightning and are skilled climbers, seldom falling, 

although a sheep might occasionally injure a leg. 

Paul then puts on a splint “and off it goes” he says 

laconically. Sometimes an animal catches pneumonia, 

then it stays in the shed with Paul tending it 

until it recovers. 

Grazing rights. The sheep graze on common pastureland, 

together with the young cattle authorised 

to graze there. Although this no longer presents a 

problem, things were somewhat different a few 

decades ago. Back then, the “Saltner” (overseer) 

would whistle as soon as Paul’s sheep crossed the 

boundary of the common pasture, and he quickly 

had to fetch them. Or if the sheep went astray on 

the Alpe di Siusi mountain pasture, the Tires farmers 

would herd them down into the valley and he 

had to go and retrieve them. Nowadays, this rivalry 

is no longer an issue – there are enough pastures 

to feed all the animals and the forest rangers are 

actually pleased to see the sheep eating the long 

grass on the steep slopes, as it reduces the danger 

of avalanches. 

Caring for his sheep seems to do Paul good as, at 

well over 60, he still appears fit, wiry and agile. Although, 

as the owner of a decent-sized farm, he 

could easily give up this daily routine. “Well,” he 

says “you just have to like sheep, and I have kept 

sheep ever since I was a boy.” 

Tyrolean mountain sheep. Paul’s passion for 

breeding animals is strictly confined to Tyrolean 

mountain sheep. These are very hardy, able to survive 

on rocky terrain at high altitudes, and are renowned 

for their surefootedness. The sheep from 

this breed, which grow quite large, can be identified 

by the curved front part of their head, the socalled 

ram’s nose, their white, curly wool, hanging 

ears and hard hooves. His flock also includes a few 

black-brown mountain sheep and one mountain 

sheep from the Val di Funes which, because of the 

» 

”You just have to like sheep”: 

In summer, his flock keeps Paul on the run. 

Genuine Tyrolean mountain sheep. 


THE DOLFILAND “THEME PARK”! 

The art of woodcarving from South Tyrol. 

Come and have a tour in the heart of the Dolomites 

and visit the fascinating WORLD OF WOOD! 

OPEN ALL 

YEAR ROUND 

Farmer Wiedner Paul: 

His passion lies in working 

with sheep since he was 

dark colour around its eyes, is also called a “spectacled” 

sheep. “Sheep-breeding is on the up again. 

a little boy. 

Breeding co-operatives are organising exhibitions 

and giving prizes for the finest animals, which encourages 

each breeder”, Paul tells us. 

It makes for a pretty and peaceful picture, the 

woolly sheep crowding around Paul with, dotted 

among them, a few ewes suckling lambs. Then 

suddenly, a loud, thudding noise: boom, and boom 

again – two rams head-butt each other with full 

force, then turn away, peace apparently restored. 

I am shocked, but Paul assures me that this was 

just a harmless skirmish, although there are occasions 

when the animals receive stomach wounds 

that can lead to a rupture of the spleen. 

Foxes, eagles and marmots. Such losses are however 

easier to bear than those caused by the cunning 

foxes, “the sheep’s main enemy”. They have 

already stolen a number of lambs from Paul. The 

eagles nesting on the walls of the Sciliar can also 

pose a danger to lambs. He once saw an eagle attacking 

one of his lambs, causing it to fall from the 

rocks, then lifting it with its sharp claws and carrying 

it off. He has become smarter over the years. 

“The eagles prefer to catch marmots. When they 

are preparing for hibernation, that’s when I bring 

the sheep down into the valley”, he tells us. 

12 ALPE | Sommer 

The sheep can continue to graze at his farm until 

the snow falls, and they spend the winter in a shed 

or an outdoor enclosure. But before this, they must 

be shorn; Paul cuts off the shaggy Alpine fleece 

himself, more for reasons of animal hygiene than 

any money he might earn from the wool. “People 

no longer want the wool, so I have to take it for recycling 

– I even have to pay for the privilege” he 

complains. 

Healthy meat. On the other hand, there is sometimes 

good money to be made at the auctions in 

Bolzano, especially when Italian dealers are present 

– they appreciate the unadulterated quality of 

the pasture-grazed meat, and lamb is particularly 

sought after at Christmas and Easter. He will eat 

mutton at home, and also makes sausages. “Those 

are delicious” he says, licking his lips. 

The sheep continue to graze at the farm in spring 

until Paul takes them in his pickup truck to Ratzes, 

a high valley up above Siusi, where he lets them 

loose. Slowly, feeding hungrily on the newly 

emerging plants, they climb ever higher, always 

under Paul’s watchful eye, until in early June they 

reach the Alpe di Siusi. There they make their way 

straight to the Wiedner Farm, safe in the knowledge 

that Paul will be waiting for them with the 

precious salt. « 

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Interaction 

of light and shade 

at the Santner Spire. 

A sundial formed 

by the Santner spire 

The imposing Santner spire, towering over the municipality of Siusi, 

is regarded as an emblem of South Tyrol. This huge tooth, protruding from 

the Sciliar massif, is visible from far and wide. It has also served men 

for thousands of years as a precise chronological instrument. 

Even in the Bronze Age, large menhirs were 

used to tell the time. Their shadow precisely 

indicated both the date and time of 

day. In ancient Egypt in particular, obelisks were 

dedicated to the sun god. There is also an impressive 

example in Saint Peter’s Square in Rome. In 

the mountains the summits cast shadows and 

could often be used to measure time, as shown 

by the German names of well-known local peaks 

such as the Mittagsspitze (noon peak), Zwölferkofel 

(twelve o’clock stone), Elfer (eleven o’clock) 

and Einser (one o’clock). 

The landscape around Siusi features many places 

of worship from the Bronze and Iron Age. The 

shadow cast by the Santner spire makes it easy 

to determine their locations. This is possible because 

the Santner spire has a very prominent profile 

and the relatively flat terrain around Siusi produces 

very favourable conditions for an Alpine 

region. This phenomenon can particularly be observed 

during the winter months from the ruins of 

the Castelvecchio and Salego castles. The folklorist 

Karl Felix Wolff mentioned a “moving shadow” 

in his essay on the legends surrounding the Sciliar 

and was the first to write about the direct connection 

between this and the movement of the Santner 

shadow. 

The movement of the shadow is a primeval law 

of effect and counter-effect, an interaction of light 

and shade. A changing shadow can have therefore 

only have had significance for the people living 

in the shadow of the Santner spire in the forest 

around Castelvecchio. 

For the sun-blessed farms above Siusi, the position 

of the sun has special significance. This is particularly 

clear at the Ausserlanzinerhof farm in Telfen 

which lies close to the shadow line of the winter 

solstice. During its daily course, the sun sinks 

down past the Santner spire, rising up again in the 

following days with the new solar year. During the 

shortest days of the year, around 22 December, the 

shadow of the Santner spire for two to three days 

reaches the table in the parlour of the Ausserlanzinerhof, 

thus indicating the turn of the year. 

The same phenomenon can also be seen at the 

Formsunerhof and Marmsolerhof farms, in the 

so-called Mittagstal (“noon valley”), where an artificial 

basin is perfectly aligned on a north south 

axis. At twelve o’clock noon (true local time) on the 

day of the winter solstice, the sun passes over the 

Santner spire. The syllables SUN and SOL occur in 

the names of the two farms. 

The rocky projection at the old holy well in San 

Vigilio is also an excellent astronomical observation 

point. From the church in San Vigilio it is possible 

to observe the spring and autumn equinoxes. 

The important pagan calendar date of the equinox 

(Latin for “equal night and day”) can be witnessed 

on 21 March and 21 September, with the sun either 

rising into the sky from behind the Santner 

spire or sinking behind it. San Vigilio is also closely 

connected to the “Rungg Egg”, an Iron Age ritual 

site. The Santner shadow passes over this mystical 

place at midday on the day of the winter solstice. 

Our sun calendar is now simply missing something 

to mark the summer solstice. 

» 

For the inhabitants of the sunny slopes surrounding 

San Valentino, Gschlier, Rungg and Siusi, the 

sun’s path over the Santner spire acts in the same 

way as a chronometer. 

This can be observed at sunrise on 21 June above 

the ruins of Castelvecchio and Salego castles, and 

Laranz and San Valentino also offer excellent viewpoints. 

« 

Text and Photo: 

Michael Trocker 


Summer | ALPE 15

Der Herbst 

lockt mit satten 

Farben und 

süßen Früchten. 

Tagusa is a small farming 

village, one of the twelve 

hamlets in the municipality 

of Castelrotto and an ideal 

starting point or destination 

for walkers. Set in the 

midst of meadows, visitors 

can here enjoy the luxury 

of perfect peace and seclusion. 

An idyllic spot with 

a farming landscape that 

looks like a picture postcard 

from former times. 

A SCENE FROM 

A POSTCARD 

» 

The middle of nowhere: this is the first 

thing that comes to mind when you see 

Tagusa. The tiny village, located at an altitude 

of 900 metres above sea level and surrounded 

by meadows and forests, stands on a high plateau 

above the lower Isarco Valley. It is a picture of scattered 

farms, a small village centre and, at the end of 

the extended settlement, the romanesque Church 

of Saint Magdalena. Next to the church is the 

former rectory with an interesting detail: a beautiful 

wooden door carved in classicist style. 

Opposite stands the school museum, the only “official” 

attraction in Tagusa. This is where the children 

from the village and surrounding areas went 

to school up until 1993, with all five classes taught 

together in one room. Today the former mini-school 

represents a piece of cultural history. Former school 

assistant Paula Malfertheiner, who today keeps the 

museum going, once attended school here. She has 

collected books, exercise books and historic teaching 

materials and can now proudly offer visitors an 

idea of how things were in former times. The old 

school benches stand as they used to, lined up in 

rows in the classroom. Exercise books, slates and 

old school books lie on the benches. It still smells 

hard to imagine everyday life in this classroom. The 

most children, 46 in total, came to school here in the 

1950s. “In summer lots of families come with their 

children. They are very interested to see everything, 

they ask me numerous questions and want to know 

what it was like when all the children were taught 

together in just one classroom”, says Paula. She is 

happy to talk about her school days in Tagusa and 

Text: Barbara Pichler 

Photo: Helmuth Rier like a school, of paper, books and chalk, and it is not about the various teachers who sometimes came » 


In the village 

of Tagusa time 

seems to stand still. 

Hiking tips 

Refreshments: 

Albergo Lieg 


From Castelrotto to Tagusa: starting from 

the village square in Castelrotto, follow the 

path marked No. 10 up to the Föstlbach 

stream via the Bühlweg path and past the 

imposing Unterpray house with its interesting 

farmer’s garden. From there continue 

up to the Elendmüller (No. 2), and then via 

the Katzenleiter (cat ladders) as this steep 

path is known, up to the Radlmoos and then 

along the shady woodland path to Tagusa. 

Time: 1.5 hours 

From Castelrotto via the Brembach to 

Tagusa: starting from the Bühlweg in the 

village centre, follow the path marked No. 

10 up to the Föstlbach stream, then head 

towards San Michele. This old stone path 

through the meadows leads past a typical 

woven wooden fence, beautiful old drystone 

walls and the Lafay residence. The 

path ends at the Bremicher Platzl. From 

there continue to the right, past the old 

Maso Lafogler farm. At the Sabina café-bar 

follow path No. 2 A to the Maso Tamines, 

where refreshments are also available, then 

take a shady woodland path to Tagusa. 

Time: 2 hours 

Excursion to Castel Forte castle: the Castel 

Forte is a fine example of a South Tyrolean 

castle. It can be visited at various 

times of the day as part of a guided tour. 

There are two ways of getting from Castelrotto 

to the Castel Forte: from the main 

road that leads down to Ponte Gardena into 

the Isarco Valley, the main road turns of to 

Tagusa just below Castelrotto. After the Albergo 

Lieg the path (No. 1 then No. 2) leads 

to the Castel Forte. Shortly before Tagusa, 

at the Steffener cross, path No. 2 leads off 

to the Castel Forte. From the castle you can 

walk to Ponte Gardena and take the bus 

back to the Sciliar region. 

Time: 1.5 hour 

From Castelrotto this walk 

takes approx. 3 hours. 

School museum: Monday, Wednesday and 

Friday from 10 am to 4 pm until All Saints 

Castel Forte castle: open to the 

end of October. Guided tours available 

several times a day. 

Information: tel. +39 0471 654401 

Café-bar Sabine 

Café-bar Tamines 

(Information about the opening times 

of the above establishments and the 

shuttle bus timetables is available 

at the tourist information offices.) 

on foot from afar. In good weather Paula sets up tables 

and benches in the garden and families often 

sit outside together in the garden and picnic. 

Peace, perfect peace. Tagusa has not had a village 

guesthouse for years. But in the centre there is a 

large old fountain and a fire station (a feature of 

even the smallest South Tyrolean hamlet), which 

provides the locals, far from Castelrotto, with 

a sense of security. Chickens scratch their way 

through the village, closely observed by a proud 

cock. The many cats roaming around probably belong 

to everyone. The atmosphere here is calm and 

contemplative, with neither noise or rush to disturb 

the everyday life. People are friendly but reserved. 

They clearly love their “holy peace” and 

you can see that they have no intention of making 

changes any time soon. The few guests in those 

farms offering farm holidays are probably looking 

for the very same thing: peace and seclusion, an 

idyll that otherwise only exists in romantic films 

about rural life or from postcards. 

Mushroom madness. The only “crowds” that ever 

come here are the mushroom gatherers in late 

summer. But they are not to be seen, as they hide 

in the woods above Tagusa, away from the strict 

eyes of the forest rangers. Mushroom gathering is 

addictive: it wakes in us the age-old urge to harvest 

food from Nature. There is no other way to explain 

the arrival of the hordes of mushroom addicts each 

summer. « 

Culinary 

Walking Tours 

Walking and enjoying 

culinary pleasures 

on the Alpe di Siusi 

Spring and autumn invite 

with their riots of colour and 

their culinary delights – from 

herbs over dumplings and 

strudels to sweet chestnuts 

- to pleasure walks. Whether 

at a “Törggele” walk with 

stop for a hearty snack or a 

hike with a cooking course, 

the trip is a pleasure for all 

senses. 

Summer | ALPE 19

The hard climb 

is generously 

rewarded. 

Starting from summer 2011 the holiday 

area Alpe di Siusi, together with the holiday 

area Val Gardena will transform into 

a real MTB Paradise with view on the Dolomites. 

A new mountain bike brochure offers biking 

fans 33 tours, on and around the Alpe di Siusi, 

the greatest pastureland all-over Europe. The free 

brochure, with tour map, roadbooks and a detailed 

description of the routes included is available at 

local tourist information offices. At the very same 

offices you can also buy a useful tour guide with a 

topographic map included. 

DE IT EN 

33 TOURENKARTEN 

Bike-Paradies Gröden und Seiser Alm 

33 CARTINE DEI PERCORSI 

Paradiso mountainbike Val Gardena e Alpe di Siusi 

33 TOURING MAPS 

Bike paradise Val Gardena and Alpe di Siusi 

Mountain biking all around 

At the foot of the 

spectacular Denti di 

Terrarossa mountains. 

Our Highlight of the day “Alpe di Tires Tour” 

This is one of the most beautiful tours of the region 

and offers all that the hearts of mountain bikers 

desire. A long and varied climb over almost 2.000 

metres in altitude difference offers a fitness challenge 

with stops for refreshment at some of the 

most beautiful mountain huts of the region. The 

destination is the Rifugio Alpe di Tires, the highest 

mountain hut of the region that can be reached by 

mountain bike in an incomparable location at the 

foot of the spectacular Denti di Terrarossa mountain 

chain. It also has a technically challenging descent 

that is waiting for you in the second part of 

the tour with several exhilarating trails and cart 

tracks on which riding technique fans will be in 

their element. A dream tour for physically fit and 

technically expert bikers! 

You can warm up easily in the first kilometres from 

the tourism association Siusi to the control station 

San Valentino on the small panoramic road leading 

to Wasserebene. On its gritty climb to the Schafstall 

the tour shows its teeth for the first time. 200 

metres in altitude difference further up the nightmare 

is over for a start. The next section via Marinzen 

to Gstatsch is very easy and simply puts you 

in a good mood. 

There follows a short training session. You grind 

up the next 250 metres in altitude difference on 

the Alpe di Siusi road, free of normal traffic since 

9 am , as far as the car park at Spitzbühel. There is no 

other sensible route here for bikers to take. From 

the Spitzbühel car park on it gets steeper again 

with an average 15% climb on a narrow tarmac path 

to the mountain station of the chair lift. The mountain 

hut there looks down over the valley as if from 

an eagle’s nest. The Santner peak appears, from 

the terrace, to be within your grasp as it forms the 

distinctive end of the Sciliar to the north-west. 

The panorama and mountain hut marathon begins 

with the Spitzbühel up on the Alpe di Siusi. 

On your way via the Baita Laurin Hut, Alpenhotel 

Panorama, Baita Rosa Alpina Hut, Rifugio Molignon 

Hut and the small church at Dialer, you cannot 

really see enough of the well-known Dolomite 

peaks, like the Sasso Lungo, Sasso Piatto, Marmolada, 

Gruppo di Sella, Sas Rigais, Le Odle, Denti » 

Text and Photo: 

Gunnar Diepenbruck 


Summer | ALPE 21

Fresh 

products 

More tours 

Marinzen 

Tour of medium 

difficulty, with a 

wonderful view. 

Total distance: 18,98 km 

Height variation: 227 m 

(uphill), 1.070 m (downhill) 

Riding time: about 2 hrs. 

Sciliar and 

Croda del Maglio 

Quite difficult tour and 

with beautiful panoramas. 

Length: 31,15 km 

Height variation: 1.416 m 


di Terrarossa, Sciliar with the Santner peak. When 

the weather is good, you can see still further, e. g., 

as far as the Zillertal Alps and Alpi Breonie and as 

far as the Ortles! 

There are still now 300 metres in altitude difference 

from the small church at Dialer to the Alpe 

di Tires. The track over which the landlord of the 

mountain hut brings supplies is always in a good 

condition, but very steep. You have to deal with a 

climb of up to 20% in longer sections and with already 

many metres in altitude difference in your 

Over hill and dale 

through paradise. 

the beautiful Baita Rauch Hut as far as Compaccio. 

Shortly below Compaccio a hiking trail turns off at 

the Albergo Zorzi in the direction of the Spitzbühel 

car park. After the Jaggl Schwaige this hiking trail 

turns into a fun trail that disgorges the bikers at 

the car park of the chair lift to the Spitzbühel. 

From here riding technique fans are again in their 

element. The trail leading to Gstatsch is challenging. 

It is narrow, has obstacles and was in parts a 

former cart track. But take care! In the event of wet 

conditions or after rain, it is very slippery here. 

from our 

local 

farmers 

Laurinhut Tour 

Very demanding 

tour with wonderful 

views on the Dolomites. 




Denti di Terrarossa 

Difficult tour with 

magnificent views on the 

surrounding mountains. 


Height variation: 1.728 


Dolomite 

Wild WoMen Trek 

Extraordinary 

adventure - tour 

for experts. 



Riding time: five days 

mountain bike tour 

More information on 

www.alpedisiusi.info and 

www.mtb-dolomites.com 

tired legs. But even if you have to dismount at 

some point, the Alpe di Tires as a destination is 

worth every effort. This dreamlike mountain hut is 

located completely remote at the foot of the Denti 

di Terrarossa and offers a stunning panorama, e. g., 

of the Catinaccio located opposite. The landlord 

and landlady are amiable and the food excellent. It 

is so beautiful up here that you would immediately 

like to stay overnight. And why not? 

The same track then takes you back downhill over 

glorious trails in the direction of Giogo Molignon. 

If the weather is good, the Marmolada will greet 

you from a distance. From the small church at 

Dialer a panoramic trail goes in the direction of 

Giogo. You cruise along relaxed over gravel and 

then a narrow tarmac road to Saltria where the last 

climb of this tour begins. This road takes you past 

From Gstatsch the fun descent continues. A narrow, 

secluded trail circles down in the direction of 

Bagni di Razzes. Only after crossing the Frommer 

brook, do you again come across civilisation in the 

form of a gravel road. 

Somewhat below the Castelvecchio Ruins a very 

smooth-flowing trail begins. It ends at the car park 

of the Alpe di Siusi aerial cableway. From here you 

are still only a few minutes away from the starting 

point of this tour at the tourism association 

in Siusi. « 

Short info 


Height variation: 2.139 

Riding time: about 5 hours 

The new supermarket Coop in the heart of Castelrotto offers you a wide range of fi rst quality products. In 

the specialities‘ corner you will fi nd unique culinary delights from local farmers, from biological origin and from 

fair trade. At the selling desk there is the famous butcher Heinz of the renowned Butcher Shop Silbernagl 

offering you typical Speck from Castelrotto and Helga, the soul of the Bakery and Confectionery shop 

Burgauner, who will contribute with the “Schüttelbrot”. Why don‘t you come around? 

Burgauner 

BAKERY · CONFECTIONERY 

Food - Butcher - Bakery - Confectionery 

Hardware - Gardening - Agriculture articles 

butcher’s 

silbernagl 

MARKT 

Famiglia Cooperativa Castelrotto 

Via Panider, 24 · Phone +39 0471 706 330 · www.konsummarkt.com 

22 ALPE | Summer Opening hours: From Monday to Saturday from 07.30 to 12.30 a.m. and from 3.00 to 7.00 p.m. (closed on saturday afternoon when Summer out | of ALPE season) 23

A feast for 

all senses. 

Walking barefoot through 

the Witches’ Wood 

The “Sensory Trail to the Witches’ Springs” on the Alpe di Siusi 



» 

This is truly a special wood” enthuses 

Hans Mitterrutzner. Last summer, he 

created an adventure trail through 

the forest “Bosch Curasoa”, above 

the mountain hotel Tirler Almgasthof in Saltria, 

a path unique in its form. A path which invites 

you to go barefoot, which encourages children 

and adults to go looking for animal tracks, 

which makes you aware of the surrounding nature 

and which offers a multitude of adventures 

from start to finish, including places to stop and 

ponder. The path, a two-kilometre long circuit 

that is easily walkable, in some sections even 

with a buggy, starts and ends at the mountain 

hotel Tirler Almgasthof and will be completely 

finished this summer. 

Bosch Curasoa is Ladin and means something 

like “healing forest”. This name can be traced to 

the sulphur spring which rises in the middle of 

a forest glade. This spring is from time immemorial 

said to have been able to heal skin problems, 

aid digestion and strengthen the joints. 

The “Bosch Curasoa” is also the home of legends, 

telling of mythical female figures who 

lived there and were able, using their positive 

energies, to heal human and animal ailments. 

In return, they simply wished to remain undisturbed 

in their “Witches Wood”. Human curiosity 

prevailed, however, and drove the good 

witches out of the forest. In revenge, they turned 

the forest springs into sulphurous water. 

But this sulphur spring is not the only thing 

unique to this forest, according to Hans. It is the 

harmonious way in which everything required 

to relax in a natural landscape is brought together: 

lichen-covered trees, mossy rocks, sunny 

forest glades, a rushing mountain stream and 

many different plants and animals. “And, last 

but not least, the young witch Curadina, who 

was the only one to remain in the forest and 

who now uses her wise owl to show walkers the 

way”, he adds mischievously. 

Adventure in mind. “How often have I seen 

people hiking, taking no notice at all of the 

beauty of nature around them”, Hannes 

Rabanser, the young warden of the mountain 

hotel Tirler Almgasthof, tells us. He grew up in 

the Val Gardena valley and, even as a small boy, 

he was struck by the beauty and power of nature. 

As far as he was concerned, the forests 

and meadows, streams and rocks were a huge 

» 

Summer | ALPE 25

Martha, the witch, 

tells wondrous stories. 

No need to be afraid of Martha the Witch 

She loves children and nature, can cast magic spells, change herself into a squirrel 

and likes Harry Potter. But what doesn’t Martha the Witch from Castelrotto like? 

ALPE: Are you a 

good or a bad witch? 

Martha the Witch: I am truly 

a good witch in my heart. But, 

because I am a witch, I sometimes 

perhaps look bad. But 

deep inside I wish everyone 

only the very best. You don’t 

need to be afraid of me. 

Do you live in the woods? 

I do not live directly in the 

woods, but I am at home 

there. In my free time I wan- 

the clouds, the rain, the snow, 

the ice, the hoarfrost, the sky, 

the mountains, the streams, 

the plants and animals are all 

my friends. Everything that is 

beautiful. 

Do you have a broomstick 

to fly through the air? 

I have several brooms that I 

use to fly through the air, but I 

mostly use them to sweep the 

floor. Flying is something that 

can easily become dangerous. 

kinds of witches depending on 

the feelings they have. I would 

tell anyone wanting to become 

a witch that the most important 

thing is always to listen to 

your inner voice and to trust 

your feelings. 

Do you know 

Harry Potter? 

Of course I know Harry Potter, 

and I love him. I know all the 

witches and sorcerers, great 

and small. 

What makes you sad? 

War makes me sad, when people 

do not understand each 

other and attack one another 

with weapons. I also do not 

like seeing one person laughing 

at and making fun of another. 

That really hurts me. I 

find it even worse when someone 

just takes it for granted 

that others will give him 

things or help him. I love freedom. 

What are you 

adventure playground that he could explore 

and investigate using all his senses. 

He still recalls the impressions that this 

made on him, hearing, smelling, tasting, touching 

and feeling nature, the excitement of 

walking barefoot, the memory of how exhilarating 

and invigorating it was for his feet to 

come into direct contact with the dank-smelling 

forest floor. It was this which gave him 

the idea for the “Sensory Trail to the Witches’ 

Springs”. And it was a stroke of luck that he 

found, in Hans Mitterrutzner, the right partner 

to realise this idea. 

Hans, who during the summer lives in his hut 

up on the mountain pasture, is a person who 

is very close to nature and is blessed with 

practical skills and creative talent. With his 

trained eye he can turn natural objects into 

playful elements. “I work together with nature 

and merely draw attention to it, so that 

people become more aware of nature and 

children‘s playful urges to search for things 

are encouraged” he explains. The concept 

seems to work: “It is hard to believe what 

simple means can be used to delight children 

and adults alike”, says Hans, pleased with the 

success of his work. « 

In the Witches’ Wood: 

Pure adventure. 

A walk with 

Martha the Witch 

With legends, tips from the witch’s 

kitchen and walks to magical places, 

Martha the Witch will enchant parents 

and children alike. A spooky 

night-time walk in Castelrotto can 

now be added to the family summer 

programme. 

Meeting Martha the Witch 

The meeting place for the night-time 

walk up to the Colle hill is Castelrotto’s 

village square. It is already getting dark 

and parents and children are waiting 

excitedly for the central character of 

this special evening to arrive. When will 

Martha the Witch come? 

Finally, she appears in her black witch’s 

garb and blue apron, with a red cloth 

around her neck, a rucksack full of secrets 

and a merry laugh. The children at 

once see that nobody needs to be afraid 

of this witch. 

Children and parents carry torches, 

while Martha the Witch holds a lantern: 

the way leads up a steep, narrow lane to 

the Castelrotto Colle. The shadowy 

woods are eerie and most people are 

not used to walking in the dark. But 

there is plenty here to discover and 

hear. And, holding their parents firmly 

by the hand, children can also look 

more closely at Martha. You never know 

what you’ll find! 

The witches gather 

From the Colle there is a good view of 

the Sciliar mountain, long a popular 

place for witches to gather. There are 

many stories of wild celebrations by 

witches up on the high plateau of the 

Sciliar, and Martha knows them all. As if 

spellbound, parents and children listen 

and ask all about broomsticks and healing 

herbs. 

der through the forest and 

breathe in the pure air, talking 

with the trees, birds and animals 

I meet. I can see the 

beauty of the woods, and that 

is one of my magical arts. 

Who are your friends? 

All children are my friends, as 

well as anyone with a big 

heart who might be seeking 

Can you cast 

magic spells? 

Yes, I can. But my spells are 

not for sale. Nor can I use 

them to gain any advantage, 

otherwise I will lose my magical 

powers. I can use my spells 

to change my world. 

How do you 

become a witch? 

Can you change 

into an animal? 

Sometimes I change into a 

squirrel, jumping from branch 

to branch and playing catch 

with my squirrel friends, up 

and down the tree trunks. 

That’s lots of fun. Sometimes I 

change into an eagle to see 

what the world looks like from 

aloft. Sometimes I am a hedge- 

afraid of? 

I am afraid of many things, but 

I don’t let them get me down. 

What is your 

favourite story? 

My favourite stories are the 

“Princess and the Pea” and 

“Zilly the Sorceress”. 

Bewitching charm of the Alpe di Siusi 

Martha the Witch spends a week walking 

with parents and children in the 

Alpe di Siusi holiday region, well-known 

for its magical places. Together they 

look for traces of witches at the 

“witches’ seats” up on the pasture as 

well as at Presule Castle. In the kitchen 

of Marianna the farmer’s wife, children 

can prepare the herbs they have gathered 

while Martha tells them her secret 

recipes from the witch’s kitchen. But 

make sure you keep them a secret! 

something. The sun is my 

friend, the moon, the stars, 

You are born a witch. You simply 

feel it. There are different 

hog. Then I stick out my spines 

and can go my own way. 

Interview: Elisabeth Augustin 

Text: Barbara Pichler 


Parlour and stone give 

evidence of the past. 

The Front farm 

On the slopes of Aica di Fiè stands the largest existing ashlar block farmhouse 

in South Tyrol, a perfect destination for nature lovers and connoisseurs alike. 

Text: Elisabeth Augustin 


» 

The farming folk take their seats beneath 

the crucifix in their parlour 

where, with their large family, they 

have experienced so many joys and 

sufferings over the decades. Johann Kompatscher 

and his wife Elisabeth give off an aura of peace and 

satisfaction. Despite the many troubles and sacrifices 

that their life on their mountain farm has cost 

them, they retain a youthful sparkle. Their watchful 

gaze expresses their openness and curiosity, 

while often during the interview they modestly 

lower their eyes to the old table. Their words are 

well chosen and to the point. Fate was not always 

kind to Johann and Elisabeth: of the nine children 

born to them at the Front farm, only five survived. 

This family, tested over years, have found comfort 

in their faith: “It is what gives you the strength to 

carry on”, explains the farmer’s wife. 

Nevertheless, Johann and Elisabeth would not 

have changed their lives one iota. “We know no 

other way”, says Johann. “We have happily run the 

farm together all our lives”. Their fields in Aica di 

Fiè are scattered far and wide and working them 

is hard. The Front farm today comprises seven hectares 

of farmland and some six hectares of woodland. 

The Kompatscher family share their farm with 

ten cows, eight young animals, a few pigs and of 

course some contented chickens. In the fields 

grow potatoes, white and red cabbage as well as 

plenty of other vegetables. The steep slopes used 

to be home to vineyards, and a grapevine, grapes 

and a grape knife on the coat of arms at the entrance 

bear witness to the fact that the Front was 

once in all probability a major wine producer. But, 

as the old farmer says, “in hard times we had to 

grow grain, meaning that the grapevines had to 

give way to wheat and other grain varieties”. 

But now their son Markus, a qualified carpenter, 

has discovered a passion for wine and is making 

good use of the excellent conditions prevailing at 

800 metres above sea level to grow vines again. To 

the delight of his father, Markus is putting plenty 

of effort and enthusiasm into his wine production, 

growing Zweigelt, Sylvaner and Pinot Nero grape 

varieties. The old threshing machine in the cellar 

is no longer used now that wine is being produced 

once more. The enormous basement area once 

housed the wine press, which has long since been 

replaced by more modern equipment. This room, 

known as the “Torggl” or press, has an impressive 

cathedral-like pointed arch vault of over five metres 

in height. “We can only assume that this once 

housed a court of justice”, says Johann. “The dungeon 

was at the neighbouring Federer farm”, Elisabeth 

adds mysteriously. She says she can even 

remember handcuffs there. There may well have 

been a connection between the Front farm and 

Presule Castle, which in the 16th century was the 

seat of the Governor of Tyrol. But no proof has to 

date been found. 

The Front farm is peacefully located on a sunny, 

south-facing slope of Aica di Fiè, surrounded by 

beautiful hills. The Oachner Farmstead Trail runs 

past it. This was opened a few years ago and offers 

walkers the opportunity, throughout the year, to 

discover the fascinating farming landscape. The historical 

farm itself, first mentioned in the records in 

1379, has survived the centuries almost unscathed. 

It is the largest remaining farmhouse in South Tyrol 

built of ashlar blocks on the hillside. The stately 

22-metre frontage is visible from some distance 

away. The small, sandstone-framed windows and 

arches, decorated in the summer months with red 

and white geraniums, provide a vivid image and 

have a touch of the south about them. On the 

ground floor are the parlour and kitchen, with the 

upper floor containing the bedrooms. The Kompatscher 

family rents out a popular and spacious holiday 

apartment on the ground floor, where guests 

can enjoy peace and tranquillity while experiencing 

farm life, tradition and nature from close up. 

» 


Summer | ALPE 29

Senior farmer Johann 

in the speck cellar. 

The Front farm, 

first mentioned 

in the records 

When the light stone of the Front farm is bathed in do with the German word “torkeln” (“to stagger”), 

through to the middle of December, attracting 

in 1379. 

the rich autumn light, the large, snug parlour becomes 

even if this may sometimes be a by-product of 

visitors from far and wide”. The majority of the 

30 ALPE | Summer crowded but cosy as people gather along 

the bench around the oven. The old South Tyrolean 

custom of “törggelen”, the tasting of new 

wine, involves walking through the bright colours 

of nature under azure skies and afterwards visiting 

one of the wine-producing farms along the 

way. In former times the farmers themselves would 

go from farm to farm to taste the new wine in the 

autumn, partaking of hearty fare and roast chestnuts. 

The word “törggelen” has in fact nothing to 

convivial wine-tasting sessions. The word rather 

derives from the Latin torculum (“wine press”). 

For over 40 years now, the family at the Front farm 

have been running a so-called Buschenschank, a 

sort of farmhouse inn that sells farm produce to 

passers-by. At first people would come from Fiè or 

Bolzano to sample speck with bread. “Later, birthday 

parties were celebrated up here”, remembers 

the old farmer Johann Kompatscher. “Törggelen 

is particularly popular from mid-September right 

fare on offer at the Buschenschank is grown and 

prepared on the farm itself. Visitors are strongly 

recommended to try the homemade specialities: 

Schlutzkrapfen (filled pasta pockets) and Knödel 

(dumplings), sauerkraut and sausages, sweet 

“Krapfen” (filled pastries) and other local delicacies. 

In the autumn, Elisabeth and her daughtersin-law 

have their hands full in the kitchen, while 

her sons and her daughter also help out to keep 

everyone happy. The young farmer Markus himself 

serves the guests the wine he has produced 

and, after a dish of roast chestnuts, a glass of 

homemade “Grappa” is also a must. 

In spring and autumn the Buschenschank represents 

an important extra source of income for the 

farming family, a factor securing their life up here. 

It would be truly a shame if this magnificent farm, 

with its welcoming parlour and numerous delicacies 

from both kitchen and cellar, were to have to 

close its doors to an appreciative public. « 

Family Kompatscher 

pamper their guests 

with home-made 

delicacies. 

“Törggelen” 

A very special tradition 

in South Tyrol 

“Törggelen” comes from 

the Latin “torculum” 

meaning wine press. The 

“Törggelen” season lasts 

from around mid October 

when the grapes 

have been harvested, to 

late November. It involves 

an autumn outing 

to a farmhouse inn 

called a “Buschenschank”. 

The main attraction 

is the new wine 

with roasted chestnuts, 

but fresh grape juice, 

local food products 

(“Speck”, “Kaminwurzen”, 

“Schüttelbrot”) and 

typical South Tyrolean 

dishes, can all be enjoyed 

in a cosy farmhouse 

parlour in jolly 

company. 

More “Buschenschank” 

or farmhouses you will 

find on hompage 

www.alpedisiusi.info 

Summer | ALPE 31

Smart girls from Castelrotto 

in virginal gown during 

the procession. 

Virgins wear 

the crown 

Historical costumes through the ages. 

» 

In the past, each social class had its own traditional 

costume. These also varied according 

to a person’s age or marital status. Thus 

there were many different traditional costumes 

and, in the villages under the Sciliar mountain, 

several forms have persisted until today – a 

good dozen or so for both males and females. The 

traditional costume for unmarried women, distinguished 

by the colour white – for centuries considered 

to be a symbol of purity and virginity – is 

highly detailed, even ostentatious, yet taken as a 

whole, harmonious. 

From virginal gown to attire for the Feast of the 

Virgin Mary. According to well-known local historian 

Hans Fink, this special costume was originally 

also used as a bridal gown, as suggested by the 

colourful shiny “crown”, similar to the traditional 

bridal headwear seen in other regions. Later, it became 

the custom to celebrate peasant weddings 

in winter, when there was enough time available 

for the elaborate preparations. Since that time, if 

a bride weds in traditional costume, she celebrates 

her wedding day in warm, dark clothing – with an 

apron of black watered silk and a green, broadbrimmed 

hat entwined with a myrtle branch. Practically 

the only occasion on which this traditional 

costume is now worn by girls is at church processions, 

when they bear the statue of the Immaculate 

Mother of God and act as her companions. 

This is why, over the course of time, this beautiful 

garment is generally now known only as the costume 

worn for the Feast of the Virgin Mary. 

Sign of wealth. “Traditional costumes”, says Fink, 

“have changed again and again over the centuries”. 

Ever since the late Middle Ages, the rural 

population, once plainly dressed in homespun 

textiles such as brown loden and greyish linen, 

have copied the example set by the townsfolk and 

the aristocracy. Castelrotto offered them many an 

occasion to do so, as the Krausen family, wealthy 

Hungarian nobles, settled there in 1556, holding 

court in splendid fashion and providing a wonderful 

model for imitation. 

Of course, not everyone could afford to follow the 

new fashions. “In principle, it was also always snobbery 

and the amount of money in their pocket that 

decided whether people bought an expensive or a 

simple costume”, says Hans Fink, explaining the 

reason for the many different varieties. The richest 

farmers did not at any rate baulk at the costs of 

plush silk, fine linen and woollen fabrics, Venetian 

lace, richly embroidered leather belts or silver and 

gold jewellery; they confidently showed off their 

wealth and, on high days and holidays, their wives 

and offspring too could be seen wearing splendid 

clothing. 

Lace and brocade. A long black skirt and a white 

linen blouse with highly starched, short puff 

sleeves, the ends embellished by wide pieces of 

ruffled lace, form the basic costume for the Feast 

of the Virgin. To this is added a white lace cape 

collar (worn over the bodice), on which the wearer’s 

embroidered monogram can clearly be seen. 

Under this the young woman wears a red brocade 

bodice, adorned with green velvet ribbons and 

decorated with a red silk brocade insert, corded at 

the front with twenty silver hooks and a piece of 

gold braid. This finery is completed by a long silver 

chain worn on the chest and looped around several 

times. The arms are covered with white crocheted 

“Tatzlen”, or fingerless gloves, used in the past to 

conceal the suntanned skin that was characteristic 

of the rural population who worked outdoors, as 

opposed to the town dwellers and aristocracy. 

The apron with its colourful silk ribbons is made 

of white cloth, with flat, black shoes adorned with 

green silk ribbons worn over red woollen stockings. 

The most striking feature is without doubt 

the headdress, a cylindrical “crown” of colourful, 

shiny material, secured with red silk ribbons at the 

back beneath the wearer’s plaits. 

Summery festive costume. The lightweight design 

of this historical costume leads us to conclude 

that it was only worn in the warmer season. 

This was ingenious, as it meant that girls did 

not need to wear any unsightly protection against 

the cold and their magnificent apparel was there 

for all to see. This matter of timing is still apparent, 

as the processions for the Festival of the Sacred 

Heart, the local saint’s day, Corpus Christi 

and Harvest Festival are all features of the summer 

months. « 

» 



Summer | ALPE 33

“And we are of course also quite proud of the fact 

that the best up-and-coming player in South Tyrol, 

Aron Zemmer, who has now turned professional 

with a handicap of +2, comes from our ranks”. She 

tells us with equal satisfaction about the ladies’ 

team, which has seen increasing successes from 

one year to the next, and the men’s team, which 

can also boast a solid record. 

Nina Urthaler 

is President of 

the Golf Club 

Castelrotto-Alpe di Siusi 

A charming boss 



» 

It really did come as a huge surprise to me”, 

says the smart hotelier, recalling the day 

on which she was elected to the governing 

board by the members of the Golf Club 

Castelrotto-Alpe di Siusi. A surprise, because Nina 

is not exactly a star player. “It’s true that I was 

one of the first to swing an iron at the new driving 

range, but after passing the tournament-level 

test, I didn’t really get much further”, she says. 

Not, however, for lack of motivation: “I was totally 

fascinated by the sport right from the outset and 

Rudi Knapp is a marvellous teacher”. Her family 

was equally supportive and her three children also 

now play golf. “And of course they were soon better 

than me”, she laughs. No wonder, as she has 

had to take time out again and again due to injury, 

nor did managing a five-star hotel on the Alpe di 

Siusi leave her much time to practice. 

New challenge. In terms of votes, only Christine 

Leitner-Novakovic garnered more than her. Born 

in Castelrotto, elected “Manageress of the Year 

2003” in Germany, she was hitherto deputy to previous 

president Kurt Obkircher. He stepped down 

voluntarily: with the course built and the club established, 

he now wished to take a back seat, he 

said. 

But then Christine Leitner-Novakovic, a resident 

of Switzerland, stated that she did not wish to take 

up the post. “And so, all of a sudden, I was taking on 

a task which was completely new to me”, admitted 

Nina. She diplomatically appointed the lady with 

the most votes as her deputy. 

Harmonious co-operation with the golf course 

owners is of great importance to her. “The golf 

course was built by a private company, a truly fine 

effort”, she says. Golf courses in South Tyrol receive 

no public funding and the building of this 

course on Alpine terrain not only swallowed up 

large sums of money, but also represented a technically 

complex, very time-consuming task. And 

so it was all the more gratifying when, in 2007, 

they could start playing regularly and the members 

of the newly established golf club were presented 

not only with a spectacular and challenging 

18-hole course with a stunning backdrop, but 

they also had a perfect training ground with a very 

well-run golf school. 

Club attractions. “Of course, a new golf club 

needs time to develop. We are headed in the right 

direction in many ways, but we could further improve 

some aspects”, says Nina, getting straight 

to the point. It has been a great help having golf 

pro Rudi Knapp to work with her; right from the 

start, he has been an energetic supporter of ideas 

encouraging young people. And so it is that the 

numerous children’s and young people’s courses 

and training programmes, on offer at reasonable 

prices, have contributed towards the large youth 

squad of the Golf Club Castelrotto-Alpe di Siusi 

currently being the most successful in South Tyrol. 

Club activities. “I may not be one of the greatest 

golfers, but I know a thing or two about management”, 

Nina states. Accordingly, together with the 

governing board, she has drawn up a plan for stepping 

up the club’s activities over the next three 

years. There really is no shortage of ideas on how 

to keep the approximately 160 members and green 

fee players happy. Popular with guests and members 

alike are for example the Weekly Cup Tournaments 

held every Thursday, which count towards 

a person’s handicap and offer attractive prizes to 

the winners. There are also a few highlights among 

the tournaments which clearly bear her signature. 

Thus she proves to be a perfect and charming 

host at the “President’s Tournament” or turns the 

“Dolomite Classic Cup” – a tournament for the 26 

partner hotels – into a top sporting and culinary 

event. Even in winter, golf lovers get their money’s 

worth. The International Winter Golf Tournament 

on the Alpe di Siusi is a huge jamboree, counting 

a good 60 participants this year, including quite a 

few guests who skied or snowboarded from tee 

to tee armed with only three clubs and celebrated 

their victory by holding a very successful party in 

a tent. 

Club members. “It would be good if we could increase 

the membership, that would also have a 

motivational effect”, sighs Nina Urthaler towards 

the end of our conversation. But that is not easy, 

she immediately adds. Golf players in South Tyrol 

are spoilt for choice: a good dozen golf clubs vie 

for their patronage. “Mind you, only three of them 

have an 18-hole course, and ours is supposed to 

be among the finest in Northern Italy”, she says, 

proclaiming its merits. The partner hotels offer 

their guests good-value golf packages. And as for 

the golf club? Well, that has plenty to offer potential 

members, whether it is their main or second 

club. Suffice to say that there is definitely something 

thoroughly appealing about playing golf on a 

lovely summer’s day almost 1,000 metres up in the 

mountains, with a pleasant breeze and wonderful 

panoramic views. « 

Golf Club President 

Nina Urthaler. 

Summer | ALPE 35

Buckwheat “Riebler” 

This simple dish was once prepared several times the week 

Ingrediets 

on the farms around the Sciliar. Buckwheat was grown on 

250 g coarse buckwheat flour 

most farms and was regarded as an important basic foodstuff. 

It was served sweet for breakfast early in the morning, 

½ litre milk 

2 eggs 

or in the evening with a glass of warm milk. All of the ingredients 

needed for this dish grew on the farm or nearby. The 

Butter 

1 pinch of salt 

apples came from the garden and were kept over the winter 

Sprinkling sugar 

in the cellar. The farmer’s wife cooked “Zwetschgenröster” 

Apples 

or plum compote and made a delicious jam out of cranberries 

from the surrounding woods. 

Cranberry jam 

or plum compote 

Preparation 

Mix the buckwheat and milk and leave to stand for at least an hour. Mix the eggs and salt together. 

Heat the butter in a flat pan, pour in the batter (2 cm thick), allow to cook then turn over. Cook the other side, 

then divide into small pieces. Keep stirring the mixture over the heat, cutting it up until numerous small pieces are formed. 

These buckwheat Riebler taste particularly good with apples. Cut them into small pieces and mix in with the batter and cook together. 

Sprinkle with sugar and serve warm with cranberry jam or plum compote. 


Castelrotto 

6 

TRISTORANTE TRATTORIA 

ROTZSTUBE 

S. Valentino 

TROTZSTUBE 

7 

Siusi 

Alpe di Siusi 

Bagni di Razzes 

6 

Rud. Castelvecchio 

3 TROTZSTUBE 

Via Patener 4 • I-39040 Siusi allo Sciliar 

Tel + Fax 0471 706 436 • Mobil 339 28 60 133 

www.trotzstube.com • trotzstube@rolmail.net 

Summer | ALPE 37 

Grafik: DESIGN IDEEN Seis

Summer Highlights ’11 

> June 3 to 5, 2011 

29 th Oswald von Wolkenstein 

Riding Tournament 

Galloping into the Middle Ages: the 

first weekend of June, the villages 

surrounding the Alpe di Siusi are 

dedicated to the biggest horseback 

riding festival in South Tyrol. A total 

of 36 teams face the challenging 

competition games of the Oswald 

von Wolkenstein Riding Tournament. 

The traditional riding spectacle 

starts with celebrations in Siusi allo 

Sciliar. On Sunday, the audience 

draws on foot or by shuttle buses 

together with the riders from race 

to race. At the close of the tournament, 

there will be an awards ceremony 

at Presule Castle, with a subsequent 

festive celebration quite in 

keeping with medieval traditions. 

Castel Tirolo, offers an interesting 

exhibit dedicated to Oswald 

von Wolkenstein, the famous 

knight, poet and adventurer 

from July 9 to November 27. 

www.ovwritt.com 

> June 10 to 11, 2011 

Big Open-Air Concert of 

the “Kastelruther Spatzen” 

For the fifteenth time the famous 

folk music group from Castelrotto, 

the “Kastelruther Spatzen”, invites to 

the Open Air on home soil. But even 

after all these years, the fascination 

of the concert is unbroken: many 

thousands of fans will arrive in Castelrotto 

this weekend in June to enjoy 

the breathtaking landscape and 

to experience the “Spatzen” live. A 

special experience for all huge fans. 

June 2 to September 3, 2011 

Summer for families 

Summertime is family time – the 

Alpe di Siusi will become a paradise 

for children: together with witch 

Martha children and parents will follow 

the footsteps of witches and 

wizards. Those of you who would 

like to discover what life is like on 

a farmstead can experience nature 

and agriculture close-up. 

> July 2 to 23, 2011 

World-best marathoners’ 

training camp 

From 2 to 23 July, the world’s best 

marathon runners will be coming 

once more to Europe’s largest 

mountain pasture. The optimal 

altitude from 1.800 to 2.300 metres 

leads the elite runners from 

Kenya, for the fifth time in a row, 

to the Alpe di Siusi. With two training 

sessions a day the runners 

prepare for the match season. 

For everyone who wants to run side 

by side with the Kenyan stars there 

is the Alpe di Siusi Running on July 

17 2011. All amateurs are invited to 

lace the running shoes and to measure 

themselves with the marathon 

runners over 12,7 chilometres. 

> July 6 to 26, 2011 

Schlern International 

Music Festival 

Gifted music students from all over 

the world will be meeting in Fiè allo 

Sciliar in order to prepare themselves 

for their musical careers under 

the supervision of renowned musical 

instructors and internationally 

famed artists. At the “Schlern International 

Music Festival”, the schedule 

includes classic music concerts 

presented by the students and a series 

of master concerts every day. 

www.schlernmusicfestival.eu 

> July/August, 2011 

Summer Classics 

in Siusi allo Sciliar 

For lovers of classical music, Siusi offers 

an extraordinary series of concerts. 

Artists (primarily from Italy, 

but with international experience) 

will perform the works of great composers. 

The “Summer Classics” of 

Siusi represent a high level of musical 

talent and have long since become 

an integral component of our 

summer cultural program. Both locals 

and visitors will be enchanted. 

> Summer 2011 

Summer in 

Presule Castle 

In summer 2011, everybody will again 

be able to attend elegant evening 

concerts and thrilling matinees at 

Castel Presule. The high-quality 

repertoire of the performing musicians 

and singers extends from the 

ethereal realms of classical music, 

to earthy brass band music, all the 

way to the finest jazz. And whoever 

can’t attend the events can still participate 

in guided tours and view the 

historical castle from the inside. 

www.schloss-proesels.it 

> July 2 and August 20, 2011 

Big Farmers’ Market 

“Fresh and natural”, this is the motto 

chosen by 18 direct marketers for 

their Big Farmers’ Market in Fiè allo 

Sciliar on Saturday July 16 and Saturday 

August 20, where they will offer 

their products to a major public. The 

event will be held on the Church 

Square of Fiè allo Sciliar, during 

morning time. 

Our Farmers have not only but quality 

products to offer: vegetables and 

fruits, herbs, vinegar, Sauerkraut 

(pickled cabbage), free-range eggs, 

cheese, bread, meat, honey, juices 

and syrups, fine jams and dips, wine, 

handicrafts and a lot more. The farmers’ 

products grow in Fiè allo Sciliar 

thanks to its ideal location. They 

can be also bought directly from 

the farm or at the farmers’ market. 

> October 7 to 9, 2011 

“Kastelruther Spatzen” 

Music Festival in Castelrotto 

Three days of celebrating, spending 

pleasant evenings together, 

experiencing the “Kastelruther 

Spatzen” live: the “Spatzen-Festival” 

in Castelrotto is a must 

for every fan. Surrounded by the 

unique scenery of the Dolomites 

the seven “Spatzen” enchant all 

friends of traditional music. 


Summer | ALPE 39

Food Festivals ’11 

Winter Preview ’11/12 

SMG © Alessandro Trovati 

> June 12 to 26, 2011 

Natural Food in 

Fiè allo Sciliar 

For years now, the cooks of Fiè have 

been peparing especially light and 

appetizing dishes in anticipation of 

the coming summer. Because in 

early-summer, the gardens there are 

full of sweet, juicy, hearty fruits and 

vegetables and the desire for natural 

and unadulterated foods of course 

increases. The culinary month of 

June in Fiè allo Sciliar offers a tempting 

array of tasty, natural dishes skillfully 

prepared and cheerfully served. 

A secret tip not only for health-conscious 

gourmets. 

> June 30 to July 10, 2011 

Herbal Delights 

Savoury dishes made with aromatic 

herbs from the farmer’s garden will 

spoil our guests during the “Herbal 

delights” weeks in July. A real celebration 

for the palate! 

> August 28 to September 11, 2011 

Strudel Festival 

> September 22 to October 3, 2011 

The “Knödel & Knödel” 

Dumpling Festival 

The week-long “Knödel & Knödel” 

Dumpling Festival in Castelrotto can 

be regarded as a culinary monument 

to this, the most South Tyrolean of 

all dishes. Finally, dumplings are accorded 

the honor due them. Dumplings 

of all tastes, colors and textures 

will figure prominently on the menus 

of all the restaurants which have organized 

this festival. Only the typical 

round shape of the dumplings is assured. 

> October 1 to 31, 2011 

The “Kuchlkastl” – Culinary 

Festival in Fiè allo Sciliar 

The “Kuchlkastl” Culinary Festival in 

Fiè allo Sciliar is a well-kept secret 

among gourmets and friends of 

“down home” cooking, alike. Since 

1978, the innkeepers and restaurant 

owners in Fiè have been inviting visitors 

to partake in the “Gastronomical 

October”. At the close of the season, 

the best chef cooks of Fiè will do 

their utmost to astonish and enchant 

you with new variations of traditional 

dishes – dishes pepared with passion 

and enjoyed with fine appreciation. If 

you are in search of original dishes 

(based on time-honored recipes, but 

with a modern accent), you ought 

not to miss this month-long culinary 

festival in Fiè allo Sciliar. 

www.voelserkuchlkastl.com 

Strudel – whether with a sweet filling or stuffed with hearty ingredients – is among the most-tempting 

taste treats which South Tyrolean cuisine has to offer. But all strudels aren’t the same: Every 

region and every family has a different strudel-making tradition. Each master pastry chef has his own 

special ingrediets, mixes his batter differently, and thus ensures that “his” strudel has a truly individual 

character. During the two-week-long Strudel Festival in September, you’ll have ample opportunity 

to discover and appreciate the subtle differences. Apple strudel, mushroom strudel, and their friends 

will be at the top of the menus of the restaurants and cafes. www.strudelfest.com 

> December 2011 

Christmas in Castelrotto 

For the sixth time, the inhabitants 

of Castelrotto will unveil the secrets 

of their Christmas traditions and allow 

others to participate in them. Beside 

the little Christmas market, local 

farmers’ wives will offer their 

cookies, Christmas logs, pastries, and 

other authentic goodies for sale. On 

the third weekend, the well-known 

“Kastelruther Spatzen” folks music 

group will present songs and tunes 

in keeping with the “Feast of Love”. 

> December 3 to 4, 2011 

> December 8 to 11, 2011 

> December 16 to 18, 2011 

> December 27 to 29, 2011 

www.kastelruther-weihnacht.com 

> January 12 to 22, 2012 

Traditional “Hoazetkuchl” 

Authentic South Tyrolean “Knödel” 

(dumplings) and calf’s liver, goulash 

soup and rye bread, sweet “Muas” 

(applesauce) and holiday pastries 

are just a few of the authentic Tyrolean 

country dishes from which 

to choose during the traditional 

“Hoazetkuchl” (Wedding Kitchen). 

> December 10,2011 

“Krampus”-Time 

in Castelrotto 

“Krampus”- who are them and what 

are they doing in Castelrotto? The 

Krampus is a mythical creature recognized 

in alpine countries. According 

to legend, the Krampus accompanies 

St. Nicholas during the Christmas 

season, warning and punishing bad 

children, in contrast to St. Nicholas, 

who gives gifts to good children. On 

December 10, 2011 some Krampus’ 

teams from Italy, Germany and Austria 

will walk through the streets of 

Castelrotto, wearing hand-crafted 

masks and dresses and ringing bells. 

40 ALPE | Summer www.moonlightclassic.info 

Summer | 

> Winter 2011/12 

Winter Spirits 

at Presule Castle 

Presule Castle is a majestic, extremely 

well-preserved castle located 

in the hamlet of Presule in the vicinity 

of Fiè allo Sciliar. In the wintertime, 

too, you can visit it and participate 

in a guided tour through 

impressive armories, and up breathtaking 

spiral staircases. The tour ends 

in the “Knight’s Hall”, with musical 

entertainment and a selection of delicious 

South Tyrolean specialties. 

www.schloss-proesels.it 

> January 22 to 29, 2012 

Swing on Snow 

Eight days of music on the Alpe di 

Siusi, the huts and in the villages 

at the foot of the Sciliar mountain, 

sweet melodies and dynamic 

rhythms, groups from the entire 

Alpine region, and above all a 

great atmosphere: this is Swing on 

Snow 2012. For the seventh year 

in a row the Alpe di Siusi Winter- 

MusicFestival offers a mix of traditional 

folk music with jazz, 

soul, pop and classical music. 

www.swingonsnow.com 

> February 7, 2012 

South Tyrol Moonlight 

Classic Alpe di Siusi 

The moon will be astounded when it 

peeks over the Dolomites. Because 

that’s when the starting pistol will 

fire for a cross-country marathon of a 

most unusual kind. At 8 p.m., namely, 

several hundred cross-country skiers 

will shove off from Compaccio and 

glide on their narrow skis in the light 

of their forehead-mounted lamps 

through the luminescent night-time 

winter landscape. They’ll follow the 

route for 20 or 36 kilometers, finally 

returning to their starting point. But 

the “South Tyrol Moonlight Classic 

Alpe di Siusi” is a fantastic experience 

not only for the participants, 

but for the spectators, too! 

And a lot more … 

> December, 2011 

Alpe di Siusi Winter Opening 

> 25 dicembre 2011 

King Laurin Snowpark Opening 

> January 1, 2012 

Ski race Fan & Fun with 

Denise Karbon and Peter Fill 

> January 15, 2012 

BTF Slopestyletour 

King Laurin Snowpark 

> January 22, 2012 

Winter golf tournment 

Why not play golf in the snow? 

The golf club of Castelrotto – 

Alpe di Siusi is organising a golf 

tournament on the Alpe di Siusi 

again for the third time. 

www.golfkastelruth.it 

> February 17 and 18, 2012 

Subject Schlern 10 

Snowboardcontest 

> March 10, 2012 

Red Bull Jib Ski Kings 

Freeski Jibbing Contest 

> March 2012 

The “Blue Ribbon” 

Race of the Alpe di Siusi 

> March 25, 2012 

Raiffeisen Ski King 

Freeski Railcontest 

ALPE 41

Around & About 

SAM © Laurin Moser 

Your real estate agent 

in the Sciliar region 

The Alpe di Siuisi is one of the most attractive skiing areas for families. The Alpe di Siusi is, as mentioned 

in the ADAC Ski-Guide, one of the three most interesting skiing areas in the whole of the Alps. Families will be pleased 

to stay at Alpe di Siusi. They enjoy the variety of free-time activities, the wide and hilly tracks and the various offers. 

Not to forget the modern lifts that are equipped with a certificated child lock-system. 

Photo: SAM © Andrea Zecchini 

Kristian Ghedina at Highspeed Race 

Kristian Ghedina, 13-times winner of Ski World Cup, contender at Highspeed Race, 

was overtaken by 9 challengers, who skied through the “Speed Track” faster 

than Ghedina did. Ghedina’s speed was 108,47 km/h. 


New Year’s Eve: Michelle Hunziker on the 

Alpe di Siusi. Michelle Hunziker, famous 

entertainer spent some sunny days on 

Alpe di Siusiìs tracks, to relax and start 

into the new season. And Michelle Hunziker, 

certainly had a good set off. 

Imprint. ALPE: Reg. Court Bolzano / Bolzano, n. 9/2002 R.St. Published by: Alpe di Siusi Marketing. Responsible Editor: Hubert Unterweger. 

Editorial Team: Elisabeth Augustin, Rosa Maria Erlacher, Barbara Pichler-Rier, Michaela Baur; Translations: Bonetti & Peroni, Bolzano, Daniela Perucatti. 

Graphicdesign: Komma Graphik. Advertising: Sabine Demetz, Christoph Trocker. Printing: Litopat, Verona. Circulation: 50.000 

Photo: SAM © Andrea Zecchini 

Peter Fill 

goes Bronze 

“I did my best”, as Peter Fill, 

professional skier of Castelrotto 

says. Peter Fill (28) has won 

the bronze medal at the Alpine 

World Ski Championships in 

Garmisch-Partenkirchen in super 

combined. It is the second medal 

won by Fill. His first was the 

silver medal at the World 

Championships in Val d’Isère. 

PROFANTER 

Armin Profanter 

Profanter Real Estate 

• investment 

• insurance 

• real estate 

• management services 

39040 CASTELROTTO - Via Panider, 5 

Tel. +39 0471 707 248 - Mobil +39 348 383 27 88 - Fax +39 0471 707 380 

www.agentur-profanter.com - info@agentur-profanter.com 

OFFiCE hOuRS: Monday to Friday from 8 to 12.30 a.m., and from 2 to 5 p.m.; 

Saturday from 10 to 12.30 a.m.

Without auto-mobile 

Komma Graphik - Foto: Helmuth Rier 

Affordably and conveniently 

to the trekking wonderland 

With the Seiser Alm Card Gold or the Combi Card 

Seiser Alm Card Gold 

Valid for 7 days (after first use) > 11/06 - 16/10/2011 

72,00 Euro 

> unrestricted use of the Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway 

and the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) 

> unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service around the Alpe di Siusi and the Nightliner 

> unrestricted use of the Bullaccia Aerial Cableway, the Aerial Lifts Spitzbühl, 

Panorama, Florian (Alpe di Siusi) and Marinzen (Castelrotto) 

> unrestricted use of the Public Transport Services “Mobilcard Alto Adige/Südtirol” 

G 

Seiser Alm Card Gold 

ohne auto-mobil - senza auto-mobile 

Gültigkeitszeitraum: 7 Tage ab Erstentwertung. 

Periodo di validità: 7 giorni dalla prima vidimazione. 

Value period: 7 days after first use. 

Sig. Giuseppe Rossi 

Senior - 72,00 Euro 

Carta Numero: 003770 

29 luglio 2011 - 9:06 Uhr 

Combi Card 

ohne auto-mobil - senza auto-mobile 

Signora Giuseppina Rossi 

Senior - 35,00 Euro 

Carta Numero: 000124 

29 luglio 2011 - 9:07 Uhr 

Combi Card 3 in 7 35,00 Euro 

In the course of 7 days (after first use) 

> 3 times to the Alpe di Siusi and back, 

with the Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway 

or the Alpe di Siusi Express (Bus Route 10) 

> unrestricted use of the Shuttle Bus Service 

around the Alpe di Siusi and the Nightliner 

> unrestricted use of the Public Transport 

Services “Mobilcard Alto Adige/Südtirol” 

Combi Card 7 

44,00 Euro 

Valid for 7 days (after first use) 

> unrestricted use of the 

Alpe di Siusi Aerial Cableway 






Combi Card 14 

65,00 Euro 

Valid for 14 days (after first use) 

> unrestricted use of the 







The Combi Card and the Seiser Alm Card Gold are untransferable! 

Children (0-5 years) and persons on wheelchairs ride free of charge. Juniors (6-15 years) pay only half fare. 


39040 Siusi allo Sciliar · Via Sciliar, 39 

Tel. 0471 704 270 · Fax 0471 704 269 

www.cabinoviasiusi.it · info@cabinoviasiusi.it

Alpe di Siusi Magazine

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