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GBMAGAZINESummer 2013COUNTRY LIFEShepherds and innkeepers, villages, hamlets and pasturesFEELS LIKE HOMECulture fans and nature lovers, waters, meadows, forests and rocksPEAK CONQUESTSSomething for all ages - highlights included in the ultimate Ötztal Premium Cardoetztal.comsoelden.comobergurgl.com

RUBRIKTITEL 01The alpine thermal spa resort!Haiming-Ochsengarten Sautens Oetz Umhausen-Niederthai Längenfeld Huben Gries Sölden Hochsölden Zwieselstein Obergurgl-Hochgurgl VentDEAR GUESTS,HOME COUNTRY is the slogan of this summer magazine. And it still has avery special meaning in the Ötztal Valley. Here researchers have found theoldest traces of human beings within the entire Alpine region: shepherdswith their grazing herds and hunters spent their summer in the high Alpineside valleys of Obergurgl and Vent already some 9000 years ago. Themountain hamlet of Farst is the oldest permanently settled village since theearly Middle Ages. In the 19th century Vent was Tirol's first address for alpinistsand mountain pioneers of all kinds. Today the scenic village is alsorenowned for its ARTeVENT culture festival and the new "Friedl" open-airtheater production. Fortunately there are still things that don't change in thecourse of time.SPIRITS ARE HIGH when it comes to adventurous sports, fun-filled activitiesand surprising highlights for all those in search of relaxation or adrenalinekicks, splendid gourmet holidays or ultimate well-being. Be it top sportsmenor sun worshippers, adults or children of all ages - everyone will find a personalhot spot either down in the valley or high up in the mountains. TheÖtztal boasts countless facets for all generations: lovely mountain villages,culture events, nature treasures and unlimited sports await you!INFINITE PLEASURE is synonymous with the Ötztal Valley. There is alwayssomething to discover, boredom is literally unknown. Deeply rooted traditions,century-old buildings, plus loads of new ideas accompany you all daylong. The incredible ÖTZTAL PREMIUM CARD ranks among the undisputedsummer highlights as it has more than hundred partner hotels. This is theeasiest way to explore nature's beauties and treasures spread all over thevalley at really unbeatable rates. As always we give you a heartfelt welcometo thePEAK OF TIROL!Oliver Schwarz,Managing Director of Ötztal Tourismushotel.thermal spa.AQUA DOME | TIROL THERME LÄNGENFELD GmbH & Co KGoberlängenfeld 140 | a-6444 längenfeld | tel: +43 5253 6400 | fax: +43 5253 6400 480net: www.aqua-dome.at | mail: office@aqua-dome.at | www.facebook.com/tirolthermeTalleitspitze peak high above Vent

ötztal-FlashÖTZTAL & iOETZTAL – MOBILE APPÖTZTAL IN THE SOCIAL NETWORKFree mobile App:mobile.oetztal.com for iPhone,Blackberry, Android andalternative web solutions formobile phones with Internet access.Facebook, Youtube and Twitter are virtual guides leading right to the Ötztal. Comein, take a look and stay tuned: social media channels are just perfect to keep intouch – and we are still improving them!ÖTZTALBAHNHOF812 m820 m670 m1.538 mFESTIVE CELEBRATIONThe deeply rooted event starts with a mountain mass at RotesWandl, offering picture-book panoramic views of the lower Ötztaland Inntal Valley. Afterwards, visitors can indulge in typical delights atPanorama Restaurant Hochoetz and the nearby mountain huts. Theyearly Pasture Festival is held in the Oetz hiking region on Sunday, 18August 2013. Special mountain lift discounts. www.oetz.comQUALITY SEALThe Ötztal Magazine 2013 is printed on 100% recycled paper. What does it mean?Not a single tree was cut! Ötztal Tourismus is proud to publish this booklet onenvironmental-friendly material sealed with the Austrian Eco Label designed byFriedensreich Hundertwasser.1.036 m1.550 mADVENTURE GROUNDSIn June the new "Kinderland Oetz" opens its doors, Ötztal's biggestplay and adventure area which is free of charge. The playground forkids between two and five years is located next to the Oetz outdoorpool. Parents can supervise the little ones while sitting on the restaurant'sterrace. A bridge leads to the play are for older kids: the themedareas refer to the Hochoetz Miners' Trail, presenting varied MiningAdventures – such as gold washing, shaft tower or tunnels.www.oetz.comÖTZTAL WATER STRIDER TRAILSPassionate hikers can follow conveniently the course of the Alpine waters on one ofthe six Ötztal Water Strider Trails. Two of them received the German "Premium Trail"award! Starting point of the easy to intermediate tours are Oetz, Umhausen andLängenfeld in the lower valley and Sölden, Vent and Obergurgl in the upper part. Naturalgems accompany you all day long: Alpine ponds, lake Piburger See, ancient irrigationditches, white waters like Stuibenfall and Ötztaler Ache or healing waters like the sulfurspring in Längenfeld. www.oetztal.com. www.oetztal.comÖTZTAL PREMIUM CARDMountain lifts, public bus lines, Timmelsjoch Alpine road, guided hikes, free admissionto swimming pools, Aqua Dome Spa Center or Area 47 - all this and a lot more highlightsspread all over the Ötztal are already included in the Ötztal Premium Card from themoment you check-in. You receive this ultimate card at more than 100 partner hotels. Afree booklet with the entire list of discounts is available at all Ötztal Tourismus informationoffices. Of course, guests who stay in other hotels can purchase the well-triedÖtztal Card for 3, 7 or 10 days - your key to unlimited fun and generous discounts.www.premiumcard.oetztal.comALPINE TRAVELING THEATERThis is all about the escape of Tirol's Duke Friedrich IV, nicknamed "Friedl EmptyPockets", through the upper Ötztal – which never happened but has alreadybecome a legend. In September 2013 you have the unique chance to watcha truly outstanding open-air stage play or theater "road movie" taking placebetween Rofenhöfe Farms and Niedertal Valley. Spectators can hear livesounds and quotes via earplugs and radio transmission. The actors inhistorical dresses are both near and far at the same time. A highlyinnovative theater performance for hikers interested in culture andculture fans fond of hiking. www.vent.at1.569 m1.180 m1.180 m2.090 m1.377 m1.427 m2.154 m2.509 mSOURCE OF RELAXATIONEven more water fun and well-being await you at the Aqua Dome Spa Center - TirolTherme Längenfeld. The hotel has been extended, 60 newly designed guest rooms and5 seminar halls were added, plus a huge Hotel Spa including herb bath and herb sauna,gentian bowl, crystal bath, private spa for two, Längenfeld wooden bath tubs, refreshingwater spray and fantastic relaxation parlors covering a total size of 1800 square meters.The peak of all pleasures: indoor and outdoor loungers on the rooftop provide awe-inspiringpanoramic views of the Alpine scenery. www.aqua-dome.atMYTHIC TRAIL OF LEGENDSÖtztal's new Trail of Legends is three kilometers long. It takes about one hourto walk from the Huben sports field – near Längenfeld – to the scenic "Alpengasthofam Feuerstein" inn. A mountain bike trail travels parallel to the walkingroute. Along the trail you find countless mythical figures from the Ötztal: firehorsemen, mountain enchantresses, waterfall guardians – 14 metal figureswere designed by the local artists Annemarie and Günther Fahrner. Informationboards display the detailed story of each figure. The Trail of Legends isilluminated in a mythic way every Tuesday and Thursday.www.laengenfeld.comSUPERB PASS ROADFrom now on the Timmelsjoch High Alpine Roadfeatures even more panoramic highlights: the"Footpath" at the road toll station in Hochgurgl,the "Smuggler" near the bridge over Timmelsbachbrook, the "Telescope" located below Scheibkopf,the "Pass Museum" and the "Garnet" add to aneven more memorable crossing of the border betweenÖtztal and South Tyrol's Passeiertal. All attractionsare free of charge! The pass road is openfrom May through October, weather permitting.www.timmelsjoch.com1.900 m 1.930 m

1 RUBRIKTITELRUBRIKTITEL 01L OVELINESSWonderful lightheartedness mirrored in the waters of lake Piburger SeePiburger See

10 KraftwasserS ERENITYListen to the silence of your heart, surrounded by giant rocks and eternal iceMainzer Höhenweg

12 Bergbahnen album 13I NDEPENDENCEGaining new strength on adventurous paths through meadows and forestsLocal heritagemuseum ÖtztalTurmmuseum OetzÖtzi VillagePictures: TVB ÖtztalÖtztal Nature ParkNature and culture in Ötztal......pull in the same direction.Ötztal HomelandÖtztal is not only home to four impressive cultural facilities,with the ‘Ötztal Nature Culture’ project, it also represents a veryspecial cooperation for all those who are interested in matterspertaining to nature and culture. What it is that characterisesthe Ötztal and what has been created in our homeland is madeaccessible and available to visitors, in an impressive manner.Local heritage museum ÖtztalTower Museum OetzÖtztal Nature ParkÖtzi VillageTURMMUSEUMOETZMountain biking in scenic SöldenÖtztal Nature Culture (ÖNK), Dorf 17, 6441 Umhausen, Tel +43 5255 5795, www.oetztal-natur-kultur.at

18 COUNTRY LIFECOUNTRY LIFE19LAWN MOWERSFUELLED ON SALTThe earliest evidence of herdsmen in the Ötztal Valley dates from 4000 B.C.Between Haiming and the main alpine ridge the cattle have been keepingthe environment in good shape up to the present day.Text: Isolde v. MersiAlfons Gufler takes his goats and sheep back home to South TyrolShepherd Matthias Neurauter at the horse pasture of FeldringalmThe herdsman’s yell penetrates the silence and carries on acrosspines and rocks, up and down the slopes to several clusters ofcattle grazing in the morning sun. Matthias Neurauter, aged 28,shouts out commands to his cattle dog, Benny, who seems toenjoy his exciting job: He is to separate eight cows from the herd, forwhom the time has come to return to the farm after a lazy summer onthe Feldringalm mountain pastures."Salt and bran get the cattle going", says Matthias, producing a handfulof the mixture from his leather bag and spreading it on a flat rock. Theycome trotting over immediately, and he directs those meant to returnhome towards the respective trail.Fencing helps to keepthe cattle withinthe boundaries of the Feldringalm pastures.Therefore, walkers should always rememberto close the gates in orderto prevent the cattle from straying.Between mid June and mid September the Feldringalm at an altitudeof 1888 to 2500 meters is home to 90 cattle and 90 horses. "Horses prefershort, stubby grass and therefore climb higher than cattle. And, besides,there are no flies and horse flies up there", says Matthias.The Feldringalm covers a total of 1334 acres, including 544 acres offorage acreage. "Horses do not need much attention, we check on themonly every other day", Matthias points out. "The cattle, however, must becounted and checked for injuries every day. And we have to make surethey don’t graze on neighboring pastures."There are more than 494,000 acresof mountain pastures in Tirol. Obergurgl's mountainmeadows are among those with the longest traditionof cattle grazing since 4700 B.C.The herdsman’s accessories are merely a pair of sturdy boots, a crook,and a bag to carry salt, quite similar to the equipment used in the Neolithicperiod. The only modern aids are the binoculars and an off-road vehiclethat allows for easy transportation to the Feldringalm for Matthiasand his young assistant, Lukas (16). Matthias, who makes his living asa farmer and breeder of Braunvieh (brown cattle), is spending his sixthsummer up here – owed to his love of animals and nature.For more than thirty years now, early in summer, Alfons Gufler movesto Obergurgl with about a thousand sheep owned by South Tyroleanfarmers, driving them up from Pfelders and across the TimmelsjochPass to the vast terrain of the Gurgler Alm pastures. Around September20 the sheep and shepherd return to their homes. This kind of transferof livestock from one grazing ground to another is called transhumance.The tradition of driving sheep from the Passeier and Schnalstal Valleys tothe summer pastures of Obergurgl and Vent has been practiced for thousandsof years and was even added to the list of UNESCO IntangibleHeritage in 2011.Alfons is the oldest and most experienced shepherd in the Ötztal Valley.At the age of 11 he came across the Timmelsjoch Pass with a flockof sheep for the first time. In his eyes the Ötztal pastures are the mostbeautiful place in the world. Between 1975 and 1979 Alfons tendedsheep in the Timmelstal Valley. Following a tough summer with heaps ofsnow, an avalanche, and a deceased sheep he quit his job. After threeyears of yearning Alfons returned to the mountain pastures in 1983. Hewas in charge of the Gurgler Alm then, with feeding grounds at altitudesof 2270 to 3000 meters. The Gurgler Alm had been abandoned for 15years, and it took a while for the sheep to get the neglected pasturesback to health."Sheep do not demand much attention", says Alfons, "all they need issome salt, and I have to keep an eye on them so they won’t stray out."He is devoted to his job and spends many hours a day walking with hisflock, feeding them salt and marveling at the beauty of nature. The maintask of a shepherd, however, is the annual sheep drive in autumn, whichtakes three days. Together with eight young locals Alfons gathers hisscattered sheep in a pen in Obergurgl before driving them back to theirhomes in South Tyrol.Together with eight young locals Alfons gathershis scattered sheep in a pen in Obergurgl before drivingthem back to their homes in South Tyrol.Alfons, the shepherd, owns a mobile phone, but no car or motorbikefor a short trip to Obergurgl. With numerous walkers and hikers passingby and his best friends dropping in regularly he doesn’t feel lonely anyway.Alfons is of advanced age and has other health problems. "WhenI was in hospital I was craving for the moment I would again be able towalk along the paths and trails high up on the Gurgler Alm mountain pastures."He was lucky indeed. Being able to spend another summer in themountains of Gurgl with his flock of sheep is all the modest shepherdcan wish for. Year after year.

30ALPINISMALPINISM 31TIME FLIESFor 120 years Breslauer Hütte has offered mountaineers a roof on their way to Wildspitze summit. Everything haschanged over the years: the accommodation, the climate and our mountaineering ambitions. Still there are ourmemories and a longing for the horizon full of mountain summits.Text: Birgit AntesGlacier snout at Rofenkar cirque high above VentBRESLAUER HÜTTE (2844 m)The hut, inaugurated in 1882, wasextended and modernized several times.The quaint and comfortable Alpine Clubaccommodation is a way-point alongthe classic route up Wildspitze Summitand along the Ötztal Trek.Ascent from Vent past Stablein in 3 hours.www.dav-sektion-breslau.deMid-October 2011. Despite the fantasticautumn weather we are theonly hikers to set off from the carpark in Vent. The huts around havebeen closed for two weeks. Winter is only afew days away. A lot of water has flown downto the valley from the glaciers around Wildspitzesummit since we first stood on its peak,impeccably white back then. An old picture ofBreslauer Hütte has brought back memories.And the wish to see for ourselves what it lookslike up there meanwhile.Almost 40 years ago we stayed overnight atBreslauer Hütte for the first time. Since thattime many things have changed between themountaineers’ village of Vent and Wildspitzesummit in the Ötztal Valley. The view fromthe basin below the hut to Rofenkar cirque isthought-provoking. Only a sorry tail of the oncewildly jagged ice tongue of Rofenkarferner glacierexpands across the edge of the rock. Mitterkarfernerglacier, one floor further up, toohas been thoroughly depleted. The route up toMitterkarjoch saddle leads no longer through awide snow trench, but across unpleasantly brittleterrain strewn with rocks.The Breslau Section of the German AlpineClub inaugurated Breslauer Hütte as an unser-viced accommodation for 15 people on 20 August1881. Already in 1896 a two-storied buildingwas added, a four-storied dormitory buildingin 1913 and in 1928 it was completely renovatedfor the first time.The second redevelopment took place in theyear before our first visit at the end of July1972. Back then we were just as young as curious,and of course we were daredevils. Wildspitzeseemed to be the perfect 3000m-highmountain for us. Heroes-of- the-mountains-tobewe didn’t care that Breslauer Hütte was fullybooked for the weekend. Our motto back then:If the weather report is fine, we will head forthe mountains.That’s the way of life: Mountaineersget older, huts are rejuvenated.The exterior and interior ofBreslauer Hütte have definitely improvedthanks to several face-liftings.The night was an unpleasant one for all thosewho had to sleep on the floor, the tables orbenches of the guesthouse parlor. So we wererather stiff-legged when we set off at the backof the tail of the caravan heading up Wildspitze.On the summit pride and euphoria were com-pleted by an appetite for more. A horizon fullof mountains – and we were among the luckyones that could get there from any direction!We couldn’t ’get it out of our minds. We returnedat the end of May 1974. This time thefour of us were the only guests at BreslauerHütte. Summer operation was to start in onemonth only, and we thought that the winterroom was the right choice for men of our caliberanyway. To prepare for higher aims we hadour eyes on the north face of Wildspitze. Wewouldn't consider anything easier in a time ofinflated egos.The winter room welcomed us with bleakness,dampness and uncomfortableness. Itwasn’t getting any better. The oven answeredall our attempts to get it going with the emissionof eye-stinging wads of smoke. We waitedirritably in dense snowfall with zero sight fortwo days. The most ambitious of our quartetfound it increasingly difficult to accept that wecouldn’t advance. When the atmosphere wastoo bad inside, we got outside of the hut andexercised skiing upright with our new snowblades. In the end we had no other choice butreturn to the valley and this probably saved ourlives.The experience of a fall down the north faceof Wildspitze was thus made a year later. Againwe stayed in the winter room – but only threeof us since Mr. Ambitious had better things todo. And only one of us wanted to climb the iceface. He set off at the first daylight; the rearguardwas to meet him at the northern summit.When the two stragglers eventually couldsee into the face from the north-west ridgethere was no one.Bad weather often causes cabin fever.Antidotes are safe outdoor exerciseslike skiing with snow blades.Yet down in the basin of the glacier a figurecould be seen moving towards the north-westridge. Minutes before the companion fell downalmost the entire ice slope. A few steps beforethe tail to the northern summit the tip of the– cheap and homemade – ice axe broke off. Itwas almost a miracle that the lad survived the200m fall almost unharmed.The happily survived lessons of the wild yearshave continuously improved our self-evaluationand made it a more realistic one. Yet the mountainsand nature are still as fascinating as theywere. This time the winter room was a positivesurprise. In 1997 the Breslau Section of the AlpineClub set up a separate self-catering winterhut: with two dormitories, a spacious kitchenwith a cooker – in good working order, crockery,solar light, composting toilet and a storageroom for fire wood.The view from our comfortable loge place issimply fantastic; the sunset is a gala performance.While in the south-east the last raysof light touch the summits around Ramolkogeland Schafkogel mountains, our thoughts wanderfrom the already experienced to new aims.Just as well that the horizon is still full of mountains.

32 HIKINGHIKING33IT'S THE TAKINGPART THAT COUNTSThe crossing of Bachfallen Glacier ranks among the undisputed highlights of the Gries Glacier Hike.Hundreds of hikers get together for this yearly summer event held already for more than 40 years.Many of them are repeaters and know the high Alpine route like the back of their hand.Text: Stefan HerbkeWinnebachseehütte is the first rest stop for passionate glacier hikersAt six o'clock in the morning themountain village of Gries is stillasleep. Normally. Only on the lastSunday in July the first hikers arestrolling through the hamlets already at daybreak– locals and guests, single walkers andsmall groups. They are heading towards thebig car park at the edge of the village, the officialstarting point of the legendary Gries GlacierHike. It's quite busy here. The participants wantto start in time - like Günter Heyn from Germany.The 77-year old hiker is one of the oldestparticipants, and conquers the Glacier Hike alreadyfor the 13th time."We want to give all hikers – who marvelat the glacier landscape without having thechance to enter them – the opportunity to explorethe eternal ice with a minimized risk",explains 68-year old Peter Gürtsch. He is positionedat Gaislehnscharte Ridge where hestamps the hikers' time cards. This alpinecrossing is the highest point of the entire loophiking tour at 3054 meters above sea level, andcan be reached via Winnebachseehütte and themighty glacier snout of scenic Bachfallen Glacier.From here a downhill trail leads the glacierhikers back to Gries through Schrankar Cirqueand Sulztal Valley.Günter Heyn starts the Glacier Hike at a leisurelypace. He smiles, "It's not a race or competition.For me the whole tour is a personalchallenge. Am I still fit enough? Can I stand thepace?" Furthermore he knows another secret:"Many hikers start the tour too speedy, runningout of breath very quickly. It's much better towalk slowly and steady." The average time forthis demanding hike is seven to eight hours.Of course some participants can conquer thecourse much faster. "At the moment the recordstands at two hours and nine minutes", saysAlois Schöpf. He took part already in the veryfirst edition of the Glacier Hike and was the recordholder for several years. That's easy to explain:"In the past there was much more snowand we could ski down all along GaislehnscharteRidge towards Schrankar Cirque."Hikers always dreamabout a glacier crossing.You can make this dream come trueat the ultimate hike for everyoneacross Bachfallen Glacier in Gries.Avid mountain runners only concentrate onthe best time. For all others it's the taking partthat counts, and the truly memorable moun-tain experience. Günter Heyn has been a regularguest in the Ötztal Valley since 1991, hespent already 42 holidays in Gries. He remembershis first glacier hike: "The time was not importantat all. They told us to start slowly andto marvel at the beautiful Alpine scenery. Theywarned us of the dangerous descent as at theend of the hike you concentrate less and yourmuscles get stiff."On this long high Alpine hiking tour you haveenough time for several rest stops. The first refreshmentstation providing drinks and energybars is quaint Winnebachseehütte. Furtherrest stop areas are installed on the glacier, atGaislehnscharte Ridge, at Schrankar Cirque andin Sulztal Valley.27 volunteers – like Alois Schöpf and PeterGürtsch – take care of the hikers in all weathers.In the past it was quite different. "It happenedthat the hut evening at Winnebachseehüttelasted a bit longer than normal, and thatwe didn't reach the stamp station at Gaislehnschartein time – the first hikers eagerly awaitedus", remembers Peter Gürtsch.The crossing, secured with a steel rope, isone of the crucial points of the whole glacierhike. Although the members of the Gries andLängenfeld Mountain Rescue teams take careof the hikers, some of them get scared whenstanding on the windswept precipice. "Wewere standing in the foothill of this via ferratafor about fifteen minutes, and we still hesitated",says 10-year old Yannic Janitzki who tookpart in the hike with his parents. Now the boyis happy that the expert team on the spot couldconvince his family to overcome their fear. Thiswas the first black hiking route in his life!Hobby sportsmen don't focuson record times but on thestunning nature exploration.Yannic was quite surprised about his very firstglacier crossing: "I thought the glacier fieldswere cleaner and brighter, similar to a ski run."His dad Matthias comments: "In my imaginationglaciers are always white. I can't believethat there is ice below these big masses ofgravel and boulders."Everyone enjoys his own adventure. Butthere is one experience that remains alwaysthe same for all hikers: the stunning views ofÖtztal's picture-book mountain peaks and glaciers!Additionally, the crossing of BachfallenGlacier will always rank among the undisputedhot spots of the Gries Glacier Hike.DATESGries Glacier HikeFrom Gries (1599 m) via Winnebachseehütteand Bachfallen Glacier towardsGaislehnscharte (3054 m), descent viaSchrankar to Sulztal Valley, back to Gries.Start: 6 am - 7 am. Finish: until 5 pm.Date: last Sunday in July.Distance: 20 km.Difference in altitude: 1480 m.www.oetztal.comGlacier Flea HikeFrom Obergurgl (1930 m) via Ramolhausand Ramoljoch (3200 m) to Vent.Start: 6 am – 8 am, village square inObergurgl. Finish: until 5 pm.Date: early August. Distance: 16 km.Difference in altitude: 1300 m.www.oetztal.com

34 MOUNTAIN LIFTSMOUNTAIN LIFTS35A DEEP ROOTEDVISIONARYIn the 20th century the pioneer Hans Falkner laid the foundations for thewide branching network of the Sölden mountain and glacier railway system.In the 21st century his son Jakob Falkner took over to ensure that Söldenremained Austria’s top destination in both winter and summer.Text: Wilhelm WurmScenic ride from Sölden up to the middle station of Gaislachkogl mountain gondolaIt all began during the dynamic building erain the 1950s. Ötztal was still experiencingfrugal times in an isolated and remote Tiroleanmountain farming region, as HansFalkner, commonly known as the “the BugglsHans”, was making a good living as a cattledealer in Sölden. The first and still very newski lift was operated by numerous owners andwas at that time stuck in an unprofitable low.Hans Falkner spontaneously assisted and hetook over the Sölden/Hochsölden ski lift companyworking together with the founders HermannGurschler and Martin Riml, and he provideda solid financial basis.It then went uphill very quickly. On the 22ndNovember 1963, the day of US president J.F.Kennedy’s death, the project Gaislachkoglbahnwas completed. And an extraordinary alpinesuccess story began its course; the pioneerand visionary business expert Hans Falkner, anÖtztal local with heart and soul, is still recognizedwith the highest honors four years afterhis demise.His son Jakob, 56 years old, took up his inheritancea long time ago. Naturally with his ownvisions. They call him “Jack” in Ötztal, and asmanager of the railway he has made it his taskto develop the infrastructure at 3000 m evenfurther. Encouraged by a positive media echo,by the negative prophecy of the critics, andmost of all by his own tourism instinct, JakobFalkner further developed and renewed the giganticnetwork of the Ötztal glacier mountainrailway up to record standards: 150 connectingkilometers of slopes and around 50 millionEuros profit, including gastronomy.Many mountain liftswhiz through Sölden in the summerso that hikers can experience the glaciersand summits close up just likethe skiers in the winter.500 members of staff earn their living in themountain railway and gastro areas. The companyis a unique technical microcosm, equippedwith architectural master pieces such as theBig 3, the three viewing platforms on three3000 m high peaks around Sölden, with thefirst Tirolean thermal spa, the Aqua Dome inLängenfeld, a magical building of glass, woodand stone in front of the magnificent backdropof the Ötztal summit, and the "Area 47",the world’s largest outdoor fun park offering30 different types of sport. The new Gaislachkoglbahnbelongs to the most modernGaislachkogl mountain gondola, 3058 mmountain gondola systems in Europe."Jack" loves his job. His touristic abilities startedin kindergarten at the ski cash desk or atthe restaurant till. He accumulated experienceabroad after completing his schooling, in theUSA and in England. His encounters and hiscosmopolitan experience helped him to makeÖtztal a destination with an international reputation.Most of all says Jack, he learnt from theteachings of his father who was "a patriarch inthe most positive sense".Jakob Falkner knows that he belongs to themost enigmatic people in the valley. He doesn’tsee himself as a celebrity or a star though,more as an earthy local who loves responsibilityand with careful tourism and a huge respect fornature, has built a hereditament from which thenext generation should also be able to profit."The success story is okay", says Falkner."Sölden is a landmark today. But we must reinforceour strengths with great caution and approachthe projects by degree." Sölden is notonly considerably larger than Vienna with 468square kilometers, but also the largest countyin Austria. And about 350 square kilometersof this are quiet zones which cannot be cultivatedand used for tourism. Falkner believes qualityis far more important than quantity; tourismwill always be an alternative blessing for Ötztaleven if the critics and the envious see it otherwise.His success has naturally made him proud,but also reflective. "I see myself as someonewho has created and also contributed an addedvalue to positive tourism with sustainability.However the story shows us that the topregions have already shrunk. I believe that: "Arolling stone gathers no moss! Caution shouldalways be present and also gratefulness. Ourpredecessors have achieved wonderful thingsunder the hardest circumstances and conditionsand that deserves the highest respect."InfoLift-assisted HikingFrom June to October Sölden'ssummer mountain lifts whisk you up:Gaislachkogl mountain gondola,Giggijoch gondola, Tiefenbach gondola,Rotkogl chair lift and Zentrum-Shuttle.

36 ADVENTUREADVENTURE 3 7CLIMBINGDUOAlthough they climb the world's rock faces, forBarbara and Sabine Bacher from Längenfeldtheir one and only true home is the Ötztal Valley.That is also where the two World CupSisters have their favorite andtime-tested climbing spots.Text: Lisa Reinthaler“ Home is simply a special place", saysBarbara Bacher, "and here in the ÖtztalValley many things come together: theatmosphere is a casual and personalone, we all know each other and thanks to themountains and the nature we've got many opportunitiesto enjoy skiing, hiking or rock climbing."She and her younger sister Sabine haveespecially taken to rock faces from their childhoodonwards.The Bacher sisters Babsy and Sabby havebeen exploring the Ötztal Valley vertically for almosttwenty years. Their base was a small,close training group, the success and continuityof which is a result of the work of HeikoWilhelm, today’s coach of the Austrian nationalteam, and the sisters themselves. With talentand effort the two climbed all steps to thestage of the international climbing World Cupfast. They still shine there today. Babsy’s favoritediscipline is lead climbing and Sabby’sbouldering."Actually it should be the other way round,considering our physical and athletic potential",answers Sabine Bacher to the questionof the choice of their disciplines. "Babsy is themore athletic one and this is what is usually requiredfor bouldering. And I’m more of a tech-nical climber, I use my feet more often. Seenthat way we’ve both picked the wrong discipline."But in a competition it is mostly themental constitution that counts. For boulderingone needs to be concentrated for a very longtime and the head mustn’t tire even after thefifth problem, in lead climbing one attempt isdecisive. The Bacher sisters are perfectly up tothese challenges. Barbara got 8th at the EuropeanChampionship in Imst in 2010 and Sabinehas been constantly among the best 15 boulderclimbers of the world for many years, despiteof several injuries.The Bacher sisters stick together:In sports and in their love for their homein the Ötztal Valley with itsmany climbing spots.In addition to competitions the two sistersare also passionate rock climbers – preferablytogether and in the Ötztal Valley. "What makesit so great is that the rock is different in everysingle crag. In Oberried it's more bouldery,in Nösslach it’s eroded and smooth. So climbingis varied and exciting!" marvels Babsy. Theirfavorite spot is the crag in Niederthai near Umhausen.The granite boulders at Tauferberg of-Barbara Bacher climbs her favorite rock facefer an unlimited choice for experts and evoke aspecial feeling in the Ötzal-born Sabine Bacher:"Niederthai is a home for me. There we havespent the most hours by far and still we discovernew things there. And if we watch otherclimbers there it almost feels like they areclimbing on our rock."The Tauferberg graniteboulders are the spot where the athleteshave trained most often.In the Ötztal Valley, in the Armelen crag nearTumpen, Babsy and Sabby have conqueredtheir most difficult individual rock project. The“Schwarze Schwan” is a cult route with a difficultyof 8c. It was first conquered by the Ötztalclimbing pioneer Markus Haid. The Bachersisters conquered the route after two monthsof preparation and with the help of their family:Their sister Kathi proved to be an expert in belayingand motivating. The World Cup athletesagree: "This success is the highlight of our rockexperiences up to now."What they have tested at the rock faces ofthe Ötztal Valley, the sisters together withmountain guides and pros like the extremeclimbers Hansjörg Auer and David Lama orboulder star Lukas Ennemoser, hand on to interested(amateur) climbers within the scope ofthe Ötztal Climbing Camps that take place everysummer. "The Climbing Camps are a fixedpoint for us. We have a fantastic team and it isgreat fun to teach others and to see how theparticipants improve. That’s a great thing!" trainerSabine rejoices.InfoÖtztal Climbing Spots19 climbing gardens, 7 secured via ferratas.Morethan 600 routes of all difficulty levels.TheÖtztal Valley ranks among Tirol'sabsolute climbing hot spots offering loadsof possibilities.Ötztal Climbing CampLate July/early August 2013www.oetztal.com/kletternklettercamp@oetztal.com

38ADVENTUREENDURANCEPERFORMANCEMountainbike 37fun and adventuream 47. breitengradfun and adventureat the 47 th latitudeDas Outdoor Highlight im Ötztal.Tyrol´s Outdoor HighlightOne of the most difficult and challenging whitewater routes world-wide: we are talkingabout Weller Bridge on Ötztaler Ache.Internationally renowned athletes fightfor their chance at glory and theWorld Champion title.Text: Isolde v. Mersiwater areawater areaSick “ Line“ is the most extreme, the fastestand the most demanding kayak lineon white water. Already before the racesstart, kayaking pros search theirperfect line by walking up and down the rivershore. Once they are in the water it's not possibleto check out the best position.That's the reason why every year at the endof the summer season loads of athletes in neoprenesuits get together on the shores of ÖtztalerAche river. In search of currents and rifflesthey prepare for the upcoming Sickline ExtremeKayak World Championship – a spectacularsprint race held on the 280-meter long WellerBridge Track.The grade 5 white water route of WellerBridge is rated highly difficult and dangerous.Therefore the track requires excellent techniqueskills and a good physical shape. Currents andriffles are permanently changing. Last year, forexample, suddenly a new river rapid appeared,formed by the melting waters just behind thewaterfall area called "Champions Killer".150 of the world's best white water, slalomand freestyle paddlers from 30 different countriesmeet on the Ötztaler Ache river. A trulyoutstanding challenge as the glacier brook issaid to be one of the haute routes of white watersports in the Alps. The ultimate adidasSickline World Championship ranks among themost difficult courses requiring excellent staminaand perfect technique skills. A number ofcrucial parts - like the "Champions Killer" – arelocated at the end of the race track.The wild waters of Ötztaler Ache are achallenge for white water pros.Thrilling fights await you atthe World Championship.Every mistake has severe consequences onsuch a demanding track. During two qualificationrounds on a much easier route the best45 kayak athletes qualify for the finals and theWorld Championship competition. Last year,for the very first time, eight female kayakerstook place in the sickline contest. At the end,the three best women competed for the title of"adidas Sickline Queen".In addition to the highly coveted title, theWorld Champion of the Year can also win a publicbath session with the reigning Miss Tirol –amid the applause of the crowd. All dangerousmoments and thrilling seconds are a thing ofthe past as soon as the party begins: fun isguaranteed!DATEAdidas Sickline10.10. – 13.10.2013toptopeventseventstoptop concertskonzerte30 funsports30 funsportartenwaterslideskletterparadies20.000 2 water area20.000 m 2 water areawww.area47.atwww.area47.atevent areaevent areaEuropäische UnionEuropäischer Fondsfür Europäische regionale Entwicklung UnionAus Europäischer Vielfalt wächst Fonds Stärkefür regionale EntwicklungAus Vielfalt wächst Stärkeoutdoor areaoutdoor areaclimbingrutschenparkareaoutdooroutdoorsportssportsplaygrounderlebnisgastronomieeventhalleventhalleadventure lodgesadventure lodges

40 CYCLE SPORTSCYCLE SPORTS 41LADIES' CAMP AT ITS FINESTFemale mountain bikers have their own pace and spirit. At the unique Bike & Yoga Camp in Längenfeld they areguided by a Transalp Challenge winner and a certified yoga teacher: great inspiration and loads of fun are onthe program.Text: Nadine KühnMountain biking at a leisurely pace,pedaling past verdant meadows,ringing cow bells and picturesquelittle villages. It's an easy strollfrom Längenfeld towards the hamlet of Winklen.We have plenty of time and enjoy pedalingside by side. While chatting the time away,we reach the first moderate ascent leading upto scenic Wurzbergalm. "Shift down in time andpedal steadily", recommends Karen Eller (44).Our female coach is a three-time winner ofthe hardest mountain bike stage race in theworld – the feared Transalp Challenge. The participantsof the Bike and Yoga Camp for Womenadmire Karen, they appreciate her uncomplicatedstyle and highly motivated attitude. Mostof the "camp ladies" have quite ambitious planslike an Alpine crossing. But no one has alreadyparticipated in races or real competitions.Quickly they are heading towards the mountains.In Karen's opinion too quick, urging themto be careful: "Slower, much slower! Shift downto gear two, then you have still one lower gearif you can't handle it anymore." Like a herdingdog she keeps her group together. She takesa look at the bikers in front, but she also caresabout the last one in the group. The weakerones need her help: "You have twenty or thirtygears, just perfect for conquering the mountainsat a very slow pace."Group lessons for female mountainbikers enhance both their self-confidenceand team spirit at the same time.Suddenly a cracking sound. One of the bikechains was just hanging there. "Normally myhusband repairs it", says one of the sportswomen.Karen knows exactly what to do: "Mostwomen try mountain biking because theirpartner is a passionate bicycle fan, too." Andthe male biking enthusiasts also take care ofall technical repairs. Karen always starts hermountain biking day with a short theory lessonfor women who are not used to a bike's technicaldetails. Here you can also learn how to fixor change the bicycle gearing system, the handlebarsor the wheels for transport reasons.After repairing the bicycle chain, they continueon the winding road up to scenic Wurzbergalm.The fastest bikers are already there,the slower ones still fight against the slopeand their own physical shape. Of course it'sallowed to push the bike if you are out ofbreathe. Finally on top, all biking ladies receivea great applause.Mountain biking in the surroundings of LängenfeldIt's time for a short rest stop amid the stunningAlpine scenery, just in time before the reallychallenging part of the route starts. Karenreminds: "Always remember that you shouldmove your body and legs constantly. Simplyuse the forefinger for braking, if not you couldbe thrown off your bike quickly when passinga pothole."Karen checks the descending forest trail."Look ahead and don't take the corners toofast!" All women are standing upright, balancingthe bicycles in the right way. On a short,level track Karen asks: "Is everyone okay?" Teamspirit is one of the most important facts amongwomen. Nobody conquers the mountain alone,there is always someone "standing" behind you.Daily yoga lessonsheld at the Wellness Hotel help tokeep body and mind in balance.The fun-filled tour ends at lovely NaturhotelWaldklause in Unterlängenfeld. Awarded "Europe'smost beautiful Eco-Hotel" several times,this design and wellness lodging offers a reallyperfect backdrop for the Ladies' Bike and YogaCamp. Stylish architecture, solid wooden furniture,design elements made of glass and stoneprovide this very special home-away-fromhomefeeling. At the end of the instruction day,part two is on the program: yoga lessons.Yoga, but why? "Biking stands for effort andexercise, yoga promises relaxation, stretchingstiff muscles. Furthermore yoga enhances yourbody consciousness", explains Karen. Barbara,the yoga teacher, agrees with her: "Many activitiesare one-sided and you need to balancethem out."She starts the lesson quietly, but with a tremendouspersonal energy. "Yoga means doing",says Barbara. She welcomes her group, leavingenough time to settle. Among the first exercisesare the typical "salutation to the sun", "cobra"or "tree" poses. They require a maximum ofconcentration and exact moves. Barbara standsup and takes a look at everyone, giving usefuladvice.A relaxation unit signs the end of the lesson.Peace and quiet. Did they already fall asleep?No, not at all! At the sound of the gong theyfeel revitalized, in a good mood. Plans aremade for the next mountain bike day: demandingascents, steep turns and technique trainingawait them.InfoBike & Yoga CampsDetails, dates and booking:www.dierasenmaeher.de

42 FAMIly FAMILy 43KIDS,GET SOME FRESH AIR!Rowing on the lake. Speedy waterslides right into the refreshing pond. A journeyback in time to the Stone Age or an excursion to the Alpine pasture. Even on rainydays the Ötztal Valley boasts a myriad of attractions for the youngest guests.Text: Stefan HerbkeAminimum of one hour in the outdoorsis recommended to childrenand young adults. Sports and activitiesof all kinds keep their body fit andhealthy. According to the latest health reports,more than 20% of all girls and boys are overweight.The wrong food is only one of the manyreasons, coupled with a lack of exercise. Nowadaysfor many children it's not normal anymoreto play in the garden or spend their time in theoutdoors. They often prefer computer gamesand new technologies. This problem is easy tosolve in the Ötztal. Adventure-packed excursionsamid unspoilt nature, swimming in a crystal-clearmountain lake and plenty of gamesare on the varied holiday program. Computergames can never be as good as activities in theoutdoors.Ötztal promises great fun in the outdoors:the valley's holiday villages offer unlimitednature exploration and endless adventures.It's obvious what we need on hot summerdays: water! Superb Lake Piburger See in thesurroundings of Oetz makes a dreamlike spotfor water rails. In summer temperatures canrise up to 24 degree Celsius. At the southernedge of the lake you find the rowing boat rentalstation – the best way to explore the picturesquelake close-by. The lake shore featuresmany places which are accessible only by boat.And what's best: rowing is healthy!Water and children - a perfect symbiosis:the little ones doesn't always need a lake orbrook for enjoying a fun-filled afternoon. Theyshouldn't miss out on a visit to the Water Parknext to the children's playground in Vent. Parentscan relax and unwind on the sun loungerswhile their kids are busy with the water.The area covers some 500 m², offering a waterpump, beautiful water wheels, dams and twowooden troughs. Tons of sand are available aswell. Who can build the biggest dam or the hugestsandcastle? Fun-packed hours for the wholefamily are almost guaranteed.A waterslide could add to an even more adventurousday! Therefore you should also trythe giant inflatable slides at the Fun Park in Längenfeld.Covering about 4600 square meters,this children's paradise offers not only water funbut also slacklines, trampoline, mountain lift,sand building area and a mini climbing wall.The most thrilling water slides can be foundin the Area 47 at the entrance to the Ötztal. A7000 square meter swimming lake signs the"Stone Age Day" at the Ötzi VillageOutdoor swimming fun on lake Piburger Seecentral part of this play area ranking among theworld's biggest adventure grounds. The undisputedattraction: a giant waterslide park featuringfive huge slides for adrenalin junkies of allages. Among the special highlights is the FREE-FALL slide which allows a speed up to 80 km/hour – suitable for children over 15 years.If the parents need a break it's up to theexpert guides to keep the kids moving withvaried events and activity programs.Year round water fun for all generations also incolder weather: we warmly welcome you tothe Aqua Dome Spa Center in Längenfeld withits soothing thermal waters. Kids get togetherat "Noah's Alpine Ark", at the separate WaterWorld for children with two swimming pools ondeck of a huge boat, and on the giant 90-meterwaterslide called "Schlingeschlange".Are you still of the opinion that story-telling isboring? Then you should come to the Ötzi Villagein Umhausen. This archaeological outdoorpark focuses on the glacier mummy "Ötzi" discoveredby chance in the surroundings of highAlpine Similaunhütte in 1991. Children up to 14years can join the Stone Age Day held everyWednesday in July and August.FAMILY DESTINATIONS & EXCURSIONSThe folder contains all details aboutgreat family holidays in the Ötztal – in allweathers!Available for free at all ÖtztalTourismus information offices.InfoOetz Children's ParadiseHuge, brand-new and free of charge:the "Oetz Kinderland" covers 3000square meters – located next to theoutdoor pool. Fun-filled games, naturalmaterials, shady areas, separate zonesfor young and older kids. A perfect extraservice in addition to the child activitysummer program in Oetz – with guidedgames, sports, excursions andadventures.

46CULTURECULTURE 47ARTISTIC WORKRESEARCHINGFor several decades now the Längenfeld sculptor GerbertEnnemoser has been trying to encourage public interestin art in the Ötztal Valley. In addition, he offers fellowartists from all over the world participating in theSculptors Symposium an opportunity to experiencethe magic charm of the mountains.Interview: Ursula ScheiberFolklorist and writer Hans Haid doesn't mince wordswhen it comes to the preservation of Alpine culturetreasures and traditions. He dedicates his life todefining, collecting and spreading the culturalheritage. Known as a lateral thinker, he looksfar beyond the Ötztal Valley and its future.Interview: Ursula ScheiberWhat does the term ‘home’ mean to you from an artist’sperspective? Home is where I feel valued and loved. You are defined bythe environment you grow up in, and it becomes a part of your identityover the years. Therefore, I define ‘home’ also through the mountains.They are of fundamental importance to my job, since I get most of myinspiration through walking in the mountains. Having the mountains onthe doorstep and being able to live and work in such an inspiring and unspoiledenvironment is a privilege I cherish.How did you first become interested in art? I loved to draw and paintwhen I was a child. My teacher soon recognized my talent in art and encouragedparental support. Fortunately, my family was open to that ideaand I was able to join a distance learning program just after I had completedmy apprenticeship. In the early 1970s I moved to Munich, whichseemed to me like a whole new world and deeply influenced my life.Love and the wish to have a family made me return to the Ötztal Valley. Ihave to admit that it was not easy to be an artist and feed a family at thesame time.You are one of the founding members of the ARTeVENT initiativeand in charge of the Sculptors Symposium. Could you explain thatin a little more detail? It is an encounter with nature, with the landscape,with local history and traditions. The topic is determined by thenatural surroundings, which are a source of inspiration at the same timeand permit artists to give vent to their thoughts and ideas. Peoplevisiting Vent are overwhelmed by the spectacular scenery, whichshould be carefully explored and experienced with all senses. Andthis is where art comes in, as a link and mediator between manand nature.What does Barteb’ne, the venue for the Symposium, mean to you?Barteb’ne between Vent and Rofen is indeed a very special place. Inautumn, for instance, the sun shines a lot longer here than in Vent itself.This place has got everything you need: water, flat terrain - and it’speaceful and quiet without being isolated, the perfect place to work foran artist.What is your vision for ARTeVENT in the next five years? I would likeARTeVENT to be what it is now: an unpretentious art and culture eventfor everyone, promoting top-quality art together with an attractiveculture program.Is there a kind of "valley culture" in the Ötztal? I don't think so. Lookingback to the history of settlement, the region has never been an independentcultural area. Relationships across cultures and mountain passes werejust normal. But there is a characteristic feature: the spoken Ötztal dialectwhich is typical of the young and old inhabitants of the whole valley. Andit's really very specific.Dialect and landscape: do they belong to a home country?"Home" seems to me a quite emotional concept. But on the other handthis word describes something like your home farm or birthplace which isstrongly connected to each person. Maybe "home" is a part of where youlive. In the Ötztal the farmer's culture has been strongly influenced by theextreme mountainscape over centuries. It should be scrutinized critically:"home" to me means taking part in the valley's life and having a say. To doso one must know a lot of things about his own culture and tradition.You have always looked far beyond the boundaries of your homecountry.Yes, of course. My home are the Alps in general. The most formative aspectof the Alps is their cultural landscape. I put my focus on man-madenature and landscape. The mountains still play an aesthetic role but I'mmerely interested in the specific way of life of all Alpine people, and howthey tried and will try to master their life.Writer, collector, cultural initiator, tourism critic, lateral thinker, poet.You have many talents: how would you describe yourself?When I received the title of "professor" they tried hard to describe what Ihave been doing over the last decades. The official document says "culturalinterpreter" and that's a perfect description. I find myself amidst a greatcultural variety with countless unique facets. This cultural area is the upperÖtztal Valley, connected to South Tyrol's Schnalstal and Passeiertal. Maybethere is also a touch of Pitztal because my father was born there.Looking ahead to the future: What do you wish for the people in thevalley?Young people should keep alive the interest in their home country, includingtheir culture and nature. I think this is the most important fact for thevalley's future. All those who leave the valley for studying purposes shouldbe encouraged to come back home and work here as qualified experts.At the same time, we should make it easier for young mountain farmer'sfamilies to stay in the valley.

VILLAGE LIFE AMIDSTA SEA OF BLOSSOMSAND SUMMITS670 m – 2.150 mÖTZTALBAHNHOF1.036 m670 m820 m812 m1.180 m1.538 m1.550 m1.569 m1.180 mUmhausen-niederthai.JOY IN TUNE WITH NATURE.Encountering old traditions. Niederthai, sunny high Alpineplateau. Ötzi Village, via ferratas for all abilities and scenicWater Strider Trails to mighty Stuibenfall, Tirol's biggestwaterfall. Reviving spirits at the new Health & Spa Center.Längenfeld.THE POWER OF WATER.2.090 m1.900 m1.377 m1.427 m2.154 m1.930 m2.509 mHigh-altitude training base and nordic fitness center.Wellness check-up and ultimate relaxation at the AquaDome thermal spa. Being close to both heaven andnature in the mountain and pilgrimage village of Gries.HAIMING-OCHSENGARTEN.HOLIDAY UNDER APPLE TREES.Sunny days in abundance at the entrance to the valley.A paradise made of orchards. Fruit trees accompanyyou on family-friendly walking and cycling path throughgentle hills. Ochsengarten boasts Alpine pasturesand vantage peaks.Sautens.HIGH-PROOF VACATION.Mild climate at the entrance to the Ötztal Valley.Luxuriant fruit trees are essential for fine distilleddelights and clear brandies just perfect for thetired legs of hikers and cyclists.Sölden.HOT SPOT IN THE ALPS.Getting in top shape. Ambitious, modern,enterprising, loads of action on trails, pasturesand glaciers. Futurist Gaislachkogl mountaingondola. Exploring the BIG3 viewing platforms.Obergurgl-hochgurgl.THE DIAMOND OF THE ALPS.Peace and silence, surrounded by glaciers andAlpine pastures. Breathing pollen-free air onwalking tours. Highest level of comfort and topquality easily affordable for everyone.Oetz. FAMILY HOLIDAYWITH A SCENIC BACKDROP.Painted facades in the village center, deeply rooted inhistory. Emerald green Lake Piburger See ideal toforget everyday routine. Splendid Hochoetz PastureRegion attracting sporty people.Vent.MOUNTAINEERING VILLAGE.In the foothills of 3.774 m high Wildspitze peak,Tirol‘s Alpine highlight. Glacier priest Senn haskicked-off Alpine tourism here. The „Geierwally“was put on stage in Vent.

ALL HIGHLIGHTSAT A GLANCEEVENTS:ON-MOUNTAIN FOLK MUSIC FESTHOCHOETZ PASTURE REGION02.06.2013HaimingOchsengartenSautensMUSIC:GILBERT LIVE IN CONCERT / AREA 4701.06.2013CHILDREN:NATURE PARK FAMILY FESTIVALUMHAUSEN-NIEDERTHAI21.07.2013INFORMATION Haiming 6433 OetzT +43 (0) 57200 800 F +43 (0) 57200 801haiming@oetztal.com www.oetz.comINFORMATION Ochsengarten 6433 OchsengartenT +43 (0) 57200 820 F +43 (0) 57200 821ochsengarten@oetztal.com www.oetz.comINFORMATION SAUTENS 6432 SautensT +43 (0) 57200 600 F +43 (0) 57200 601sautens@oetztal.com www.oetz.comCULTURE: ARTeVENT – THEME:MYTHIC MOUNTAIN - VENTAugust 2013EVENT:8th ÖTZTAL COUNTRY FEST - SAUTENS02. – 03.08.2013OetzUmhausenNiederthaiHIKING EVENTS:GRIES GLACIER HIKE21.07.2013CGLACIER FLEA HIKE04.08.2013 (from Obergurgl to Vent)Sport:Schnitzeljagd28. - 30.6. 2013This paper chase event is an ultimate EnduroChallenge: not really a race or competition –but a fun-filled, uncomplicated sports day withloads of splendid trails and challenges. Teamsof two have to conquer the cream of downhilltrails in order to obtain the "Giant GoldenSchnitzel" – mountain lifts can be used too!Starting at 3000 m altitude plenty of trickymissions and superb single trails await you.INFORMATioN Oetz 6433 OetzT +43 (0) 57200 500 F +43 (0) 57200 501oetz@oetztal.com www.oetz.comInfopoint Ambach 6433 OetzT +43 (0) 57200 700 F +43 (0) 57200 701infopoint@oetztal.com www.oetztal.comLängenfeldINFORMATION Umhausen 6441 UmhausenT +43 (0) 57200 400 F +43 (0) 57200 401umhausen@oetztal.com www.oetztal-mitte.comINFORMATION Niederthai 6441 UmhausenT +43 (0) 57200 420 F +43 (0) 57200 421niederthai@oetztal.com www.oetztal-mitte.comMYCMMYCYCMYKEVENT:ÖTZTALER CYCLEMARATHON25.08.2013INFORMATION LÄNGENFELD 6444 LängenfeldT +43 (0) 57200 300 F +43 (0) 57200 301laengenfeld@oetztal.com www.laengenfeld.comSölden, HochsöldenZwieselsteinFor more than 30 years, the Ötztaler CycleMarathon has been a cult event. Ambitiouscyclists from 31 different countries take partin the toughest Alpine cycle marathon:5500m altitude gain on 238 kilometers.INFORMATION Huben 6444 LängenfeldT +43 (0) 57200 320 F +43 (0) 57200 321huben@oetztal.com www.laengenfeld.comINFORMATION Gries 6444 LängenfeldT +43 (0) 57200 330 F +43 (0) 57200 331gries@oetztal.com www.laengenfeld.comINFORMATION Sölden 6450 SöldenT +43 (0) 57200 200 F +43 (0) 57200 201info@soelden.com www.soelden.comVentEVENT:ADIDAS SICKLINE10. – 13.10.2013Already for the 7th time, the international kayakslalom elite will compete for the title of WorldChampion on the legendary Weller Bridgecanoe race track in Oetz. Challengingcompetitions are scheduled!INFORMATION Obergurgl-Hochgurgl 6456 ObergurglT +43 (0) 57200 100 F +43 (0) 57200 101info@obergurgl.com www.obergurgl.comINFORMATION VENT 6458 VentT +43 (0) 57200 260 F +43 (0) 57200 261vent@oetztal.com www.vent.at

Ötztal Premium Card.More Fun. More Adventure.More Holiday.Name / name:Gültig bis / valid:Ausgabestelle / place:Stay at one of more than 100 premium partneraccommodations and take full advantage of allservices and highlights included in the ÖtztalPremium Card from 01 June to 13 October 2013.ww.premiumcard.oetztal.comIf you don't stay at one of the Premium Partners you can purchasethe regular Ötztal Card including all listed attractions.Ötztal tourismus6450 Sölden Austria T +43 (0) 57200 F +43 (0) 57200 201 info@oetztal.com www.oetztal.com