I hope you get some time to unwind and relax, simply cherishing the little things in life. I will offer my guided tours probably some time in May again. So, see you soon.
Oh man, this was my first long weekend off in a VERY long time and I loved it. Most of you know my love for the Swiss mountains, but due to COVID, I wasn’t able to organize tours or train in Grison. Thus, this weekend back in Switzerland was very special to me and I fell in love with everything & everyone all over again. I really missed this and still have happy tears in my eyes. 🗻🇨🇭💗🥺
Some might argue how irresponsible of me, traveling to a high risk country. But seriously, I am fully vaccinated, regularly test myself and I was mostly outdoors. The risk of getting buried underneath an avalanche was so much higher than getting or transmitting any virus. So please, we all need to take a break for two or three days every once in a while and simply breathe.
Snowshoeing or Winter Hiking in Lenzerheide
I initially wanted to hike and climb up to the Rothorn. Well, that plan didn’t really work out. 🙈 On day one it was snowing like crazy. Even with snowshoes you would have sunk into deep snow, it was freezing cold and there were moments when you couldn’t see much. Hence, we decided to simply do a different tour and would try again the next day.
On Sunday the weather forecast was very promising: blue skies and lots of fresh powder. 😍 However, avalanche risk levels 3 and 4. Our initial route was closed, but we wanted to see how far we could go. So, we put on our three to four layers, packed our gear and went up to 7th heaven. Up to Scharmoin, everything was easygoing. Majestic views, gorgeous mountain ranges, inhaling fresh, cold mountain air. For me, this was pure wellness. 💗😌
But off-piste the avalanche risk was very high. Even the snowshoe panorama trail was closed.
Avalanche Risk Level 4
We already checked the avalanche report beforehand and I always use the app “White Risk” so that we knew that we might not be able to climb up to the top.
The under layers in the snow were weak and on top of that a lot of snow has fallen, often in combination with a lot of wind. This makes the chance of triggering avalanches very high. Also at a distance. We knew that if we were going off-piste, we needed to stay far away from slopes of 30° or steeper.
Staying on the open skiruns or trails was our best bet. But this also meant that we had to cross three slopes. Crossing them on a sunny Sunday was like crossing a German highway during rush hour. Not cool at all. Watch, sink into deep snow, get out of your snow hole and run as fast as you can to the other side of the slope.
Rothorn Lenzerheide
We would have needed to hike up another 400 m to reach the summit, going off-piste. But at around noon, dark clouds were rising, accompanied by a strong gusty wind. Even if we took the cable car at Motta, we wouldn’t have managed it. With avalanche risk level 4 we decided to be better safe than sorry.
So, no, we didn’t reach the mountain peak of the Parpaner Rothorn (2,899 m), but that is alright. We have no regrets and still enjoyed ourselves with these gorgeous views. That is the thing with Mother Nature: you need to go with the flow, always check the risk factors and put safety first.
Maybe next time. 🗻🇨🇭❄️😌
Total elevation gain: 1,237 m, 36,7 km.
Unwinding at the Zauberwald
In between our snow adventure, we visited the Zauberwald. It still is my favorite Christmas market.🌲 🎅🏽 And especially in crazy times like these I wanna support the locals and be grateful for moments like these, cherishing the little things in life. My heart goes out to all local farmers, wood workers, local mountain huts, craftsmen and any other local supplier. 🙏🏽💗
Check out this year’s impressions.
I hope you all get to rest over the holidays – at least for a few days. And remember: stay healthy & happy and always be kind to each other.
I love the in-between season in Davos: gorgeous fall colors, blue skies, first snow – magic is in the air. Here are some day tour inspirations.
Sunrise Tour Strelapass
Get up early and hike up to the Strelapass where you start your day with a nice breakfast and beautiful views over the Davos mountain range.
Schatzalp Lunch
I could die for their Swiss „Rösti“. Although this place is a bit too touristy for me, every now and then I like to stop by for lunch.
Flüelapass
Ready for some magic? This is by far one of my favorite areas for sporting activities. In 2021 I will be back with an awesome bike & hike tour up to the Schwarzhorn.
Sertig Valley
Yes, I know, I have already published so many posts on it. But it is a classic and always worth a tour for everyone: mountain bikers, trail runners and hikers.
Dischma
During fall season this valley reminds me of Iceland: mystery & love is in the air.
Burger at Lokal Davos
After a great long day tour I often crave my favorite burger at Lokal Davos, best burger place in town, if you ask me.
I recently did the Klosters Circuit Tour Stage 6 – Russna – Schlappin. A beautiful tour leading to an even more beautiful destination: the small Walser settlement Schlappin and the Schlappin Lake in the middle of magnificent mountain scenery.
This section of the Klosters Circuit Trail leads past houses and stables, across meadows and through the forest until you reach the Walser settlement Schlappin. Schlappin was inhabited year-round up until the 17th century. And still today hikers have the possibility to stop and rest there or even stay overnight. If you would like to stay in Schlappin overnight, please click here for more information: http://www.schlappin.ch
At Hotel Alpina (opposite the train station) follow the signpost in the direction of “Alpenrösli”. At the church, cross the street and follow the road uphill right next to the bus stop “Kirchplatz”. Continue to follow the signposts in the direction of “Alpenrösli Berggasthaus”. Here you have the opportunity to combine the experience of the magnificent viewpoint with a refreshment in the Berggasthaus. From Alpenrösli follow the signs through the forest downhill towards “Klosters” and later towards “In da Mura”. The path, which is marked by signs, leads across a meadow and between houses. As soon as you reach the main road, follow the signs towards “Schlappintobel” and “Schlappin”. The path leads down to Schlappinstrasse. Follow the road for a while until you reach a signpost where “Schlappin” is written twice. To avoid having to follow the road all the time, take the Wiesenweg. This will lead you to Schlappin. As soon as you see the lake, cross the bridge and reach the Walser settlement Schlappin.
Definitely a nice little tour for a relaxing day out in the mountains.
Winter season brings out the romance in me. I just love the holiday season. This year I discovered a true fairy tale in Lenzerheide, Switzerland.
The Zauberwald Lenzerheide is one of the most magical Christmas markets I have ever seen. You get to enjoy pretty cool art and light installations, live concerts, even some poetry and traditional Christmas booths with hot cider, local food and craftsmanship – surrounded by the majestic mountains of Lenzerheide.
Right now it is my favorite Christmas market, EVER. I got goosebumps, happy tears and could really feel the magic of the trees – breathtakingly beautiful and peaceful.
How to get there
It is pretty close to Munich. Hence, I took the Flixbus to Chur (a three-hour ride from Munich for 15 EUR) and from there I hopped on the PostBus to Lenzerheide – a 40-minute ride from Chur. If you prefer a little road trip, it only takes two hours and half from Munich.
I recommend to stay for a whole weekend. Lenzerheide is just so pretty. I can really picture myself living there. You find many great deals online. I stayed at the Hotel Sarain Active Mountain Resort, which was all I needed. My recommendation for the Zauberwald Lenzerheide: book a priority ticket online. This saves you a lot of hustle. If you start early at around 5 p.m. it is not too crowded, either.
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All in all, I spent 150 EUR for a whole weekend, including entrance fees, accommodation, bus fares and food expenses.
The Grand Hotel Kronenhof is one of the most splendid hotels in the Alps. This heritage-protected luxury-class establishment is located in the heart of the idyllic Engadine village of Pontresina, only six kilometres from St. Moritz. The only 5-star superior hotel in the village, it boasts some 112 spacious rooms and suites as well as the large and well-equipped Kronenhof Spa and several very notable restaurants.
I was cordially invited to stay one night at the hotel in order to explore charming and elegant Pontresina. It was the beginning of my personal Swiss fairytale and I could not wait to get out of my hiking gear, changing into one of my pretty dresses.
Historic Architecture
Historic architecture that dates from 1848, elegant light-filled rooms and suites, one of the finest spa facilities in the world and a superb location in the heart of the Swiss Alps – this unique mix of the magic of times long past, modern comfort, and the beautiful natural world all around is what makes the Grand Hotel Kronenhof so special and unique. After a comprehensive renovation in 2007, this landmark neo-baroque building that is an alpine architectural treasure is now also one of the world’s top luxury and wellness hotels.
The Grand Hotel Kronenhof belongs to a tradition of hospitality that began in 1848. Today, the Grand Hotel Kronenhof is among the best-preserved 19th-century grand hotels found anywhere and is, at the same time, one of Switzerland’s top luxury and wellness hotels.
The Mountaineering Village of Pontresina
Pontresina is situated in a wind-sheltered side valley at 1,805 metres above sea level. The village is very close to the Bernina Massif with the two most famous peaks of the Engadine: Piz Palü and Piz Bernina. Standing at 4,049 m, the Bernina is the highest peak in the Eastern Alps. The region offers visitors action and variety as it also offers peace and quiet.
Guests first arriving at the historic mountaineering village are immediately captivated with the village itself. The charm of the traditional Engadine houses and the elegance of the Belle Époque hotels quickly transport you to a more tranquil former age.
My opinion: I find it much more charming and relaxing than St. Moritz (no offense).
Staying in Style
With 112 rooms and suites in different categories, the Grand Hotel Kronenhof in Pontresina blends modern comfort with grand hotel elegance and atmosphere. The hotel is ideal for families, especially as most of its stylish rooms can be connected, but also for couples or singles.
Honestly, I was pleasantly surprised by the interior design of the rooms and their rates as well. Since I mostly travel alone, I always have a closer look at the single rooms. The cozy Deluxe Single Rooms and Superior Single Rooms all exude an alpine elegance. All rooms have a small seating area, and the luxurious bathrooms feature the finest granite and amenities.
During high winter season, prices start at 400 CHF for a single room, which I think is VERY fair. – All rates are in Swiss francs per night and room, and include a gourmet package (half board) as well as free access to the 2,000 sq m Kronenhof Spa and to the fitness centre.
Guests can also benefit from free Wi-Fi, free use of the Kulm Golf St. Moritz and Kulm tennis courts in summer and of the natural ice rink in winter (until the end of February). In addition, the hotel provides a free shuttle service to and from Pontresina train station, and a free ski shuttle to the Celerina/Marguns and Diavolezza mountain railways. Service charges, tourist tax and VAT are also included.
In comparison, Deluxe Classic Double Rooms are located in the main wing, on the South side of the building and feature a view of the magnificent St. Moritz Mountain range. Furnished with cherry wood furniture and light-grey/red granite bathrooms, these rooms offer both functionality and comfort. Some rooms were recently renovated and redesigned by star architect Pierre-Yves Rochon. Prices start at 715 CHF.
Compared to other 5-star superior hotels in the world, this is an EXCELLENT package!
Culinary Art
Guests at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof can enjoy culinary variety in three restaurants. Diners can relish the decor in the magnificent Grand Restaurant, sample a fine gourmet meal at the Kronenstübli, have lunch at Le Pavillon in the legendary Kronenhof Bar & Lounge, or alternatively, dip into Swiss fondue and Raclette at the cosy bowling alley. There’s no doubt that every stay at the Kronenhof is a culinary discovery trip.
Believe me, you will be deligthed to dine at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof: first-class service and excellent cuisine! I strongly recommend to dine at the Grand Restaurant when you stay at the Kronenhof.
In the splendid Grand Restaurant with its neo-baroque vault dating from 1872, guests can experience a wide culinary variety as well as a sense of history and of elegance. Here, breakfast and dinner are really served in style. Swiss culinary specialties combined with international creations and local products all play a part in dishes that are a synthesis of the culinary arts – accompanied by a wine selection that leaves nothing to be desired, of course.
Wellness Heaven for Dreamers
Have you ever tried floating before and can relate to this feeling when you reached total relaxation? Then you know, what I am talking about – an unforgettable experience.
The Kronenhof Spa really is a place of relaxation – for those who enjoy, relax and dream. The unique wellness and fitness offer on 2,000 square meters is one of the most impressive in the Engadine. And it is also available to non-resident guests.
Next to their beauty, body and wellness treatments, they now also offer a oneday mental coaching session, where you can Change your life sustainably, gain clarity and mental power. Currently one of the most renowned Swiss psychologists and mountain guides, Thomas Theurillat, sets the course for success and satisfaction with the Kronenhof guests.
Awaken the Dreamer in You and remember: All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them. This is exactly how I felt when leaving the spa area.
A new Favorite Luxury Retreat?
Just a little side note: I once did a trip with my mom along the east coast in the USA and we stayed at the Ritz Carlton Central Park in New York and simply pampered ourselves. Up till now, the Ritz Carlton has been my all-time favorite Luxury Hotel in a Western Country/City because of this special memory and these positive, warm vibes.
Seriously, this has now changed. This warmth and peacefulness at the Grand Hotel Kronenhof just got me right from the beginning when I stepped inside. At the Grand Hotel Kronenhof I really felt like I could just be myself, refuel my energy, bring things back into balance and simply fall in love with the surrounding mountains. I had one of these fairytale moments that are really precious. And I will never forget it.
Are you ready for breathtakingly beautiful fairytale-like moments? Then make sure to find your way to the Grande Dame of Pontresina. – My German readers will find a lovely interview with the Reservations Manager below. Enjoy!
xoxo
photo credits: Grand Hotel Kronenhof, Munich Mountain Rebel
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, in the center of St. Moritz, has been synonymous with glitz and glamour since the resort opened as the Palace Hotel in 1896. This landmark luxury hotel overlooks Lake Saint Moritz and offers views of the surrounding Swiss Alps.
Every guest can feel it. The St. Moritz magic at this hotel. The feeling when you enter the Le Grand Hall is indescribable. Like a spell, far from the daily routine. The history of this luxury hotel in St. Moritz draws you in again and again into its enchantment. This is what St. Moritz looks and feels like!
History
It all started in 1856 when Johannes Badrutt took over the 12-bed Pension Faller in St. Moritz and upgraded it into a hotel with the name Engadiner Kulm (today’s Kulm Hotel).
This was followed by the legendary bet: Caspar Badrutt (1848-1904), son of Johannes Badrutt, purchased the St. Moritz Hotel Beau Rivage, built in 1872 by C. Rungger. He charged the renowned Swiss architects Chiodera and Tschudi with the remodelling of the hotel. The hotel was also renamed Palace Hotel.
Johannes Badrutt won a wager and brought the first English tourists to St. Moritz for winter sports. He built curling rinks and the world’s first toboggan run and, in doing so, invented alpine winter tourism. And that was exactly the time, when the magic began.
The official opening of the Palace Hotel was then on July 29th, 1896.
Regular Guests
Alfred Hitchcock first came to St. Moritz in 1924, and returned here two years later for his December honeymoon with Alma Reville, staying at Badrutt’s Palace Hotel (these days, locals just call it “the Palace”).
Back in the day, Alfred Hitchcock was a regular here, staying in Badrutt’s Palace Hotel annually for 50 years. In the picture above, you see the Hitchcock Suite at the Palace.
Rooms & Suites
They have a total of 157 rooms, 37 of which are suites and junior suites. There are four room and seven suite categories ranging from CHF 490.00 to CHF 20’230.00.
I stayed in a Double Room Deluxe with lake view on the 5th floor. Spacious, individually designed, soothing colors. Only the best materials are used, such as Italian marble in the bathroom. My opinion: At the Palace, it is all about details. Very charming and your home away from home!
My friend Milos stayed in a Junior Suite Deluxe on the 2nd floor. The Junior Suite Deluxe meets the demands of a modern man or woman who knows exactly what he or she wants. Guaranteed lake view. Own balcony. Spacious and enough storage. Noble materials – and everything stylish.
My favorite suite is the Hans Badrutt Suite. This suite with lake view is like a catchy tune: it stays on your mind. A marble entrance hall. A cosy library. The princess-like bathroom with make up mirror. From the Jacuzzi the princess overlooks the mountains. The dressing room provides ample space for all treasures. Simply magical!
Restaurants, Bars and Night Club
IGNIV@Badrutt’s Palace: A new restaurant concept never seen before in St. Moritz. IGNIV@Badrutt’s Palace by Andreas Caminada opened on 21st December 2016 in the rooms of Le Relais. IGNIV means »nest« and for Andreas Caminada, the 3 Michelin starred Swiss chef, stands for sharing values, social exchange and comfort. Caminada’s innovative finedining-sharing-experience focuses on time spent together, sharing menu components served on platters and in pans.
La Coupole/Matsuhisa@Badrutt’s Palace: in the 2014/15 winter season the Japanesese star chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa (»NOBU«) opened his premier brand Matsuhisa in the former tennis hall, which was once Europe’s first. The Martin Brudnizki Design Studio in London designed the unique interior of this 108 seat restaurant where original classic elements are skilfully combined with modern style. One such example is the original studded steel girders of the former tennis hall which now support a glass dome. This affords guests a view of the legendary hotel tower and also acts as both the landmark and namesake of ›La Coupole‹. The restaurant incorporates a cocktail and sushi bar as well as a private dining room. Japanese Peruvian cuisine; only open in the winter season.
Le Restaurant: The Grande Dame of Badrutt’s Palace Hotel’s restaurants. Guests enjoy glamorous nights in a unique setting for a classic dinner, candlelight dinner or a cultural event. This venue seats 300 people and features International and French cuisine. During the winter a harpist entertains guests for breakfast. A set dinner is served daily throughout the summer and winter season. Dress code: From 07.30 pm jacket required, tie desired.
Le Relais: The Le Relais restaurant offers French cuisine for lunch daily (in winter). The restaurant offers a cosy atmosphere with its colourful décor in the Belle Epoque style and large windows with stunning views over Lake St. Moritz. It can be divided into two dining areas as well as a separate area for small to medium sized private events. In summer the breakfast buffet is served here.
Renaissance Bar – Vintage Cigar Lounge: Smoking allowed – in particular fine Cuban cigars! From 3rd December 2016 the Renaissance Bar will become Europe’s first »Vintage Cigar Lounge«. Pure indulgence. The décor oozes comfort and encourages lounging. An exclusive choice of cigars. Paired with drinks and cocktails mixed by Andrea Delvo, Manager of the popular bar.
Le Grand Hall: The legendary lobby of the hotel with its stunning views, extravagant décor and fantastic architecture is known affectionately as the »living room of St. Moritz«. Guests can enjoy the hotel’s glamorous atmosphere over High Tea, champagne and caviar with live piano accompaniment.
La Diala (Rhaeto-Romanic for »mountain fairy«): The latest of Badrutt’s Palace Hotel’s restaurants. Situated within Palace Wellness, the restaurant offers a light Mediterranean cuisine with a wide selection of salads and sandwiches. The family friendly restaurant with its terrace opens daily from 09.00 am to 08.00 pm.
Chesa Veglia: One of the oldest farmhouses of St. Moritz (built in 1658). Chesa Veglia is a hideaway for the rich and famous and its restaurants are among the favourites in St. Moritz. It features three restaurants and two bars: The Pizzeria Heuboden for original Italian pizza and pasta, the Grill Chadafö for elegant dining with classic French cuisine and the Patrizier Stuben for Swiss and International specialities. The Polo Bar and Carigiet Bar are the perfect place for a get-together, as well as for pre and after dinner drinks.
King’s Club: All party animals and fans of sophisticated nightlife are on tenterhooks. The new King’s Club has been revealed in its new outfit during winter season 2016/17. Tantalising afresh in shimmering red and glittering gold. Sizzling with life and energy, on fire. Mirrors, sparkle and light elements galore make the club and its future clubbers shine bright. The new King’s Club celebrates the beautiful things in life: combining the joy of live music and famous DJ stars with an elegant, relaxed atmosphere and a tempting list of signature drinks and irresistible urban street food. Open only during the winter season.
Treatment Centre with ten individual treatment rooms including two luxury Spa Suites, private Hair Spa, Pedi Spa, Solarium, one room for facial treatments and four rooms for body treatments, Wet Zone/ Palace Spa with two Saunas, Ice Room, Mist Room, Aroma Therapy Room, Salt Steam Room, Massage Shower and Rain Shower
Fitness Centre with latest fitness and cardio facilities
Yoga room
Private sun terrace
Outdoor tennis courts managed by professional tennis coaches (summer only)
Natural outdoor ice-rink with instructor (winter only)
Kids’ Club Palazzino with professional day care
Palace Galerie
Gallery with designer boutiques and elegant jewellers plus shopping guide: Bulgari, Rebecca Ardessi, Church’s, Embassy Jewel AG, Louis Vuitton, Cartier, De Grisogono, Les Ambassadeurs, Trois Pommes, Miu Miu, de Nicola, Gübelin, Four Emotions, Santoni, Snow Sports St. Moritz, Tom Ford, Gucci, Bottega Veneta, Giorgio Armani, Harry Winston, Lucia Pieri, Fabio Caviglia and Galerie Gmurzynska
Service Spectrum
Palace Ski School in winter
In-house ski service, shop and rentals in winter
Ski pass included
Kids’ Club Palazzino‹ with professional day care included
Free laundry service for children until 12 years
24-hour Room Service
24-hour Concierge Service
Butler service for all rooms and suites
Free use of refreshment bar, movie channels, WiFi Internet access in all areas and free newspaper
Limousine service and car hire, including Rolls Royce transfers
Shuttle service to/from Zurich, Milan and Samedan airports on request
Free use of all fitness facilities
Free access to ice-rink
Events & Guest Relations Team
In-house fitness trainer
In-house bridge hostess
Baby sitting service
Coiffeur Hair Spa
To sum it all up: Tradition and quality endure. So it says daily in the ads. If the sales arguments are still the same almost 90 years later, it seems like tradition, quality and innovation were actually proven – and the St. Moritz glamour-factor is still there.
“It’s not where you take the trail… It’s where the trail takes you!”
Just breathe
I just had one of these unforgettable runs. It was an early Saturday morning in Davos, Switzerland – foggy, rainy and quiet.
Hence, I just put on my running gear and decided to go for a run. No plans, no special route, I just followed my gut and discovered one of the most magical trails.
From Davos Platz I took the route up to Clavadel and to the Clavadel Alp. The views and the atmosphere were just amazing. From there I took the trail to the Ischalp and went back down to the valley. This run definitely made my top 10 list.
If you are ever in Grisons, Switzerland, you should check it out.
I spent three days with one of my closest friends and blogger colleague Andrea at the AMERON Davos. We wanted to go mountain biking, simply enjoying the great outdoors and having a magical time together. As it turned out: it was the coolest girls’ trip in a long time.
The best Mountain Bike ride EVER
It was Saturday morning, 4:30 a.m. – I got up pretty early doing some functional training and going for a swim afterwards, getting ready for our mountain bike tour. The AMERON Davos akindly reserved two rental bikes for us so that we could explore the magical trails in Davos. I know, in my Instagram story most of you voted for an E-MTB, but guess what, deal with it. In Munich I am training with my sexy hardtail so that I convinced Andrea NOT to take an E-MTB, especially since we are both in pretty good shape right now.
At first the weather wasn’t really promising, it was all foggy, windy and cold. But we did not care and decided to simply roll with it. If it was going to rain, who cares. You can still have the ride of your life – no matter what the weather looks like. AND, as it turned out, a good genie was with us and the sky cleared up, literally having the best mountain bike ride EVER.
We combined different routes: part of the Jakobshorn trail to Teufi and then along the Dischma Valley. Not too difficult so that we only needed to walk or carry our bikes at two sections. Darn, it was so awesome. Andrea and I were high on endorphines and we loved playing with our bikes. We totally digged it and did not care about anyone or anything.
The best part: we went downhill as fast as we could. When it wasn’t fast enough, we hit the pedals and sounded like a little coyote when cheering for each other. The AMERON Davos literally made my mountain bike dream come true.
AMERON Davos
I already introduced the AMERON Davos in my Instagram Story, which is featured as a highlight on my profile. The four-star Swiss Mountain Resort made our girls’ mountain bike trip just perfect. As a certified bike hotel, the AMERON is continuously improving their service for all bike enthusiasts. Over a long weekend Andrea and I discovered the diversity of the region on an extensive mountain bike tour and then relaxed in their 850 m2 VITALITY Spa. What more do you need?
Guests benefit from a free use of the bicycle cellar incl. Pro-Tool Station and also have a free ride on all mountain railways incl. free bike transport. If there is anything else you need, they try to make it possible, closely working together with local bike shops.
The Accomodation
Andrea and I stayed in a 29 m² premium double room with a south-facing balcony. The room is furnished in a modern, Alpine chic design with natural materials, quality wood and silky materials, creating an atmosphere which makes you feel at home straight away. A selection of different pillows and mattress toppers also ensures you have a great night’s sleep. Rooms start at 150 CHF per night, which is more than fair.
Honestly, there is nothing to complain. We both felt pretty comfortable, loved the natural lighting in the room and slept like little babies.
The Food
With a focus on sports and fitness, the hotel offers a huge variety of healthy food options. But seriously, when you are on a girls’ trip, you have fun – you don’t count calories or talk about the best diet for your current training schedule.
Hence, Andrea and I became a huge fan of the CANTINETTA Lounge & Bar. You can relax in the evening with a wonderful glass of wine or choose from their huge Gin selection, enjoying one or two, or maybe three, Gin Tonics. Their bar menu also has a tempting selection of pasta, pizza and home-made burgers. We went for the home-made pizza and loved it: thin crust, fresh ingredients, on the point. Afterwards, we got to try their new Teranino Rose Cocktail, which was just heavenly. We both fell asleep with a huge smile on our faces.
The Spa
Until this weekend I only stayed in bike hotels that did not have any spa or wellness center. And I admit: I just love to go for a relaxing swim after a tough workout, relaxing in the sauna afterwards. Thus, I am a fan of their 850 m² Vitality Wellness and Spa Centre.
It can be pretty crowded over the weekend, but after figuring out the perfect time, you can really enjoy the quietness and peacefulness, refueling your energy. Both, sauna and steam bath are excellent, as well as their relax area. An ice cold water pool would be the cherry on the cake, but the crushed ice makes up for it. All in all, Andrea and I really had a magical time over the past three days and we can both recommend this hotel, definitely coming back for our next sports & outdoor adventure. Once again, special thanks to the whole staff for making this possible.
What’s next?
Well, any kind of outdoor sports is dangerous for me, since I get addicted quite easily. After this awesome bike ride on Saturday we went on another little tour on Sunday morning. But since we had to leave in the early afternoon, there just wasn’t enough time. Andrea and I both weren’t ready to drop off our bikes, were riding against the clock.
Man, now being back home in Munich, I am already dreaming of my next bike ride. – On Wednesday I will pick up my pretty little bike from the shop and then taking it for a spin along the Isartrail. But I am honest: I want more. The speed ride downhill in Switzerland was one of the best adrenaline rushes I have had in a long time. I wanna do it again. Also, I would LOVE to bike along a ridge trail, taking in the magic of the mountains.
In October I will be back in Davos, on my private vacation, enjoying a time off – being completely off the grid for a week. No collaborations, no work, no pressure, just enjoying myself. With more than 1300 km of cycle paths – from easy single trails to downhill parks – Davos is a paradise for mountain bikers. Maybe I will just give it a try, riding along a more difficult trail. PROBABLY – if the weather is fine. I am not sure, if I will do it alone or with a guide, I just know: I want more, finding out what I am capable of enjoying mountain biking as a new sport.
Till then, ride on and have the times of your life.
During my private vacation in Switzerland I focused on my trail running training and simply wanted to enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors. Although I have discovered mountain biking as a new sport, which I LOVE, I will always be a runner. Running up steep, high mountains, testing and challenging my personal limits, running farther, higher, faster. This is my biggest drug. I am a running addict!
Latschüelfurgga – Strelapass – Weissfluhjoch
For those of you who are looking for a nice 20k run in alpine terrain, I got this special tip for you. Magical, beautiful and empowering. I started in Davos Platz and ran/hiked up the way to Latschüelfurgga. There were many snow fields up there, which slowed me down, but it was also amazing. Most of the time I was all by myself, wearing a tank top, enjoying the sun, taking in these beautiful surroundings and just running through snow.
Then I took the route to the Strelapass. This time it was a bit too crowded for my taste. Too many hiking tourists so that I ran pretty fast in order to be alone again. But nevertheless, it is always gorgeous.
At the Strelapass I decided to run along the “Felsenweg”, all the way up to the Weissfluhjoch summit. I have seen magical images of the mountain ranges from some mountain bikers and so wanted to see it for myself. I loved the rocky surroundings, it was a bit rougher than the Strelapass, exactly what I needed. The way up to the Parsenn Station and then to the Weissfluhjoch summit is pretty steep. When trails are steep, breathing becomes harder, legs fatigue more quickly, and you tend to feel every painstaking step. Shortening your stride and taking quick steps help maintain efficiency on climbs. Short strides also help keep you in a more upright position, always standing tall – which I did.
WOW – the views up there are heartbreakingly beautiful. I saw the spot where they build the igloo village during winter season and some of the most magical mountain ranges. The Weissfluhjoch summit itself was rather disappointing, since it is a major tourist attraction. My recommendation: don’t take the funicular, hike or run up the summit. It is so much better. The same applies for going down. And if you are lucky, you get to see a group of alpine ibex climbing cliff face.
Up there – just breathe. I closed my eyes, took a deep breath in and out, then opened my eyes and had this huge satisfying smile on my face. All in all, it was a 20k run with an elevation gain of roughly 1,324 m. A magical tour!
