Latest News
Experience all this snow for yourself with a FREE day off-piste guiding with Piste to Powder
Date: 21/01/2012
St Anton has experienced the most of the epic snowfall this winter making powder conditions some of the best the resort has seen for almost 40 years. To celebrate that and to ensure guests have the chance to experience the greatest snow and off-piste skiing that St Anton has to offer, Alpine Evolution is offering guests a FREE day of guiding with the legendary Piste to Powder Mountain Guides for ALL March bookings.
Guides can offer a range of experiences catering for those who are completely new to off-piste and want to give it a go for the first time to those who are at an advanced off-piste skiing level and would like to explore the region further.
The guides aim is to take skiers safely to the best snow, challenge them in the right terrain and help them improve their ski technique and knowledge of the mountains. With so much snow around, it is also essential that skiers are safe when going off-piste and do not take risks that could endanger themselves or others.
All Piste To Powder guides are UIAGM International Mountain Guides and avalanche science experts. All guests taking part in the Off-Piste Guiding will receive a safety package with digital transceiver, shovel and probe, transceiver training plus an avalanche safety briefing.
The Arlberg mountains are so magical at the moment, it's definitely something not to miss out on!
For more details, phone Annabel on 0043 664 4460966 or email me info@alpine-evolution.com
Make the most of the strengthening pound and book your holiday in euros
Date: 20/01/2012
If you book your holiday now and pay in euros you will be saving money, which can then go towards your ski pass and fun at the Mooserwirt! The exchange rate has cone up to 1.24 today (from 1.13 earlier on in the season).
In addition to this, its bucketing down with snow, topping up already great conditions. See you soon!
St Anton is still in the middle of the biggest snow storm in over a decade
Date: 08/01/2012
With all the roads closed for a second day in and out of town, it is fair to say that we are experiencing the biggest snow storm in years. In just over a month, there has been 530cm of snow at the top of Valluga and at resort level there is 170cm. The storm that has hit right across the Alps over the past 5 days is on its last legs, but it doesn't seem to be easing just yet. However, the forecast is looking good for next week, with skies clearing tomorrow and the weather is set to be sunny up until the weekend. What does that leave in store for us then?? Lots more snow shovelling, happy guests and fresh tracks! Have a look at our gallery page over the next few days and I shall try and get some images up of the aftermath. Anyone who is coming to stay with us over the coming weeks might want to have a look at the Piste to Powder days available. With levels ranging from 1 - 5 even for those who are new to powder skiing have a chance to get out their and safely enjoy all this fluffy stuff. Have a look at http://www.pistetopowder.com/ or contact us for more details. All their guides are qualified International mountain guides and they will show you the best spots at the best times. As always, St Anton has so much to offer, but with these very unique conditions it would be a shame to miss out!
Perfect conditions
Date: 20/12/2011
The snow conditions in resort at the moment are just amazing. The snow is light and fluffy, the kind we dream of in the Alps. The temperatures have remained cold, so the snow has stayed fresh, and day by day more snow just keeps falling. It feels like it won't stop all winter. We have had a great 2 days up on the mountain, laps of backside were knee deep and kept on filling in on every lap. The pistes are uncrowded and lovey and soft too. It is definitely the most snow we have seen in a few years.
We look forward to seeing you out here soon... It is truly epic!
Biggest snowfall in a decade!
Date: 17/12/2011
For those of you worried about snow this season, fret no more! St Anton is currently experiencing its biggest snowfall in over a decade. It has been snowing non-stop for over 5 days. The base in town is now at 75cm, and up at Galzig it must be at least 1.5 meters. I think we will be set for a good winter!
The snow has arrived in St Anton
Date: 05/12/2011
It was lovely to wake up this morning to see it snowing! It always comes in the end - despite the pre-season/pre-christmas hype... and with snow forecast throughout the week and temperatures dipping to -11 at night on Friday, I'm pretty sure we can now relax into the winter and look forward to some excellent days on the hill.
Ps. This photo was taken 5 minutes ago, looking up to Wildebener above Verwall/Stuben and it's still snowing as I type. Check out our blog and twitter over the next few days for snow condition updates. I'm off to buy my season ski pass...
The winter kicks off with the opening of St Anton's ski shops!
Date: 28/11/2011
We always make sure that we are back in St Anton for the weekend that the ski shops open. It is quite an event in St Anton, with lots of bargains to be had, and while you are gazing at the latest pair of skis or newest jacket you are fed chestnuts (roasting from an open fire...), gluwein, wiess wurst and pretzels. The whackiest thing we saw was a puffer jacket that zipped up right over your head and acted as an all-in-one ski jacket/googles/breathing apperatus and even a bobble to complete the look... not sure how practical it would be for April skiing or apres ski!
Intersport had a big 'roulette' wheel outside their revamped shop which you could spin to get between 20% - 50% off any items brought that day. Dom, our Alte Stadl chalet host managed to bag the 50% and proceeded to get all the kit he needed for the season! Not bad. Kirsch Baum had a crane and an air mattress which you could jump/somersault off from any height between 1m - 8m and hope you got a soft landing! Alber Sport came up trumps with the best selection of skis... I've got my eagle eye on a pair of Nordica Enforcers this year and there were plenty of great carving and piste skis too.
What is completely new this year in St Anton is that we have a Hervis in town (opposite the bakery). It is a chain sport store seen throughout the Alps, which on the one hand is not great for the other more technical sport shops, but it does mean slightly cheaper prices... especially on items that might not need to cost you the earth - ski gloves, ski socks, thermals etc. It also looked like it had a great range of kids clothing.
What we can be sure of is that, as always, St Anton does have a MASSIVE selection of all sorts of sporting gear so there's no need to worry if you forget anything!
Get kids excited about skiing!
Date: 20/11/2011
We're passionate about getting kids skiing early and are thrilled to launch our unique "Snow Bunnies" weeks. We've joined forces with the Ski School Arlberg and MeriNannies in a move to take the stress out of taking young children skiing. It's all about kids having fun in the snow and fresh mountain air. We have designed it around pre-school children between 3 -5 as we believe this is the best time to get them started.
The package includes around 450 Euros worth of FREE childcare, ski school and kiddie extras per child. Our lovely drivers will transport the little Alpine Evolution guests to ski school every morning. They will then be collected by qualified nannies from MeriNannies who will bring them back to Chalet Gertrud Gabl for a nutritious hot lunch. The afternoon will be filled with an action-packed activity programme including snowman-making competitions, Gruffalo Hunts and tobogganing. Having had their supper in the evening, all the children staying in Chalet Gertrud Gabl can huddle around the fire for story reading and warm milk before bed.
Adults will be able to enjoy their time on the mountain and lap up those sun terrace lunches without the hassle of coming back to meet the children after their morning lessons. Grown-up dinner in the chalet will be served later to ensure they have enough time to get their little ones to sleep, and then have time to unwind over a glass of Prosecco in our relaxing living room.
The Pre-School Package Includes:
Accommodation in Chalet Gertrud Gabl A special gift for each child on arrival
Full board for children on six days (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
Pre-school ski lessons from 10am until 12pm every morning from the Skischule Arlberg
Qualified in-house nannies from 12pm until 5pm every afternoon
Ski School Collection Service
Action-packed afternoon activity schedule including snowman-making competitions,tobogganing and Gruffalo Hunts
Bed-time story time
The Snow Bunnies package costs from 1350 Euros Per Adult. Children are also priced at 1350 Euors and include up to 450 Euros worth of free childcare and kiddie extras. The Snow Bunnies Package is available on all bookings for the week commencing 11th March 2012 and 18th March 2012. For more information, contact us on info@alpine-evolution.com or follow us on Twitter alpine_stanton.
Have fun browsing through our new website!
Date: 07/10/2011
We've teamed up with Indulge Media and our excellent designer Hamish from Rocket Bug to revise and update our website. We hope you like it! We've tried to keep the same feel as we know lots of you like browsing around. We've added aspects such as a feedback page where you can share and add your comments, as well as being able to send us a direct booking enquiry, sign up for our monthly newsletter (including recipe of the month!), order a cookbook or find out more about our private chef services.
Over the next few weeks we will be adding small changes such as Google maps to show you exactly where our chalets are, St Anton webcams and 3 day snow forecasts.
Follow our facebook and twitter to find out whats happening in St Anton throughout the season.
Enjoy looking around and let us know what you think!
Book Der Alte Stadl before 15th October 2011 and save €250 per person!
Date: 12/09/2011
Now that summer is now sadly over and winter is beginning to set in, it's time to embrace the cooler weather and get that ski holiday in the diary before your favorite week gets booked up. To help your money go a bit further, we'd like to offer any group who books Der Alte Stadl before 15th October €250 off per person... that's €1500 per group! Call Annabel on 01386 584 183 or email us at info@alpine-evolution.com to make an enquiry.
A weekend away in St Anton...
Date: 29/08/2011
This weekend saw us leave English shores and return to the Arlberg for a few sun filled St Anton days...well almost!
It was brilliant to be back in resort during the summer months and to see the mountains looking as beautiful as always. But more importantly we were there to celebrate Neil and Sabrina's wedding day. With clear blue skies they exchanged their vows in the garden of the Museum Restaurant and with the backdrop of mountains and green fields, few could have asked for a better setting. What followed was an evening of fine food and delicious wine, all catered for by the Museum and a party at one of our favorite winter haunts - Taps Apres Ski Bar. It was a day and a night to remember and we wish the happy couple a long and happy life together.
Saturday brought with it snow capped peaks, winter conditions and a few sore heads. But it was great to see the Arlberg covered in snow and set the tone for the season ahead with plans being made and the excitement of a fast approaching winter ever growing.
And what about Sunday...a trip to the Portes du Soleil and a few days of bike riding and good times...
4th June 2011 - We got married!
Date: 20/07/2011
For those of you who have been asking about our wedding day on 4th June 2011 - it was BRILLIANT! It was the happiest day of our lives, and so wonderful to be surrounded by friends and family from near and far - New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, Scotland, Austria, Sweden, Mexico and England. The ceremony took place under a tented 'giant hat' in our family garden in Oxfordshire and was followed by lots of fun and merriment, and of course schnapps...
One of the key highlights of the day was seeing 20+ Tyroleans, all of whom are familiar faces around and about St Anton, wondering around the quintessential English village of Dorchester-on-Thames in their Lederhosen and Dirndls. Priceless.
We are now Mr and Mrs Gonifas and look forward to seeing you this winter and filling you in on all the wedding gossip!
We are now busy taking bookings for 2011/2012...
Date: 09/07/2011
For those of you who already know your skiing dates for this coming season now is the time to book to ensure that the chalet you want it available. You can put an option on a chalet for 48 hours, or over a weekend, to allow you time to get your group together. For those of you who aren't quite sure, why not give us a ring and we'll match up your requirements with the ideal week for you.
Remember that as well as being booked as a whole, the Gertrud Gabl can also be booked on a room by room basis. The Alte Stadl on the other hand is always booked exclusively.
We look forward to hearing from you...
Jason and Annabel
How's the snow? A first hand report on the snow conditions in St Anton
Date: 03/03/2011
This is THE question that has been on everyone’s lips this season... Luckily for St Antoners, we can safely say that the masses of snow in October, November and December has left the mountains with a fantastic base which held off the warm temperatures we had in early February. We had already had another big snowfall at the end of January and February half term was a mix of sunshine, freezing temperatures and heavy snowfalls.
Having skied yesterday, I thought I had to tell you first hand just how good the snow really is:
On my way up, it was hard to decide where to go... Nicky and James, our hosts in Der Alte Stadl had reported that Hinter Rendl was perfect, still in the shade and there were still patches of untracked snow to be had. If I ever have a few hours off though, I feel as though I have to head up towards Gampen and then Schindler as the views are so beautiful in the afternoon and you really feel as though you get away from it all - it's a good way to clear the head. First I headed down to Osthang; a hard packed base with a light top proved to be perfect for long carving turns. Next, I wanted to check out what the off-piste was like so I did a quick Bachseite into Happy Valley. This hadn’t seen the sun all day, and the mediums sized moguls which had accumulated were still pretty solid. So, I thought best to fang it over down the long blue 17 to Rauz. As I was going up the Schindler chair however, I had a peak down the chutes and saw that the snow looked, light, soft and crisp. I had an awesome run down the widest of the chutes (more like a bowl really), and couldn’t believe my luck. It was the best run of the month, the snow was firm but still light beneath my skis, the sun was out, it was about -2 and looking over the white peaks as far as the eye could see, all I could think was 'This is what it's all about!!'
So I went up and did it again twice more, each time choosing a slightly different line and each time loving it as much as the first! These are the days my friends...
Hot off the press! Alpine Evolution's first cookbook "Behind the Scenes: Recipes from Annabel's Kitchen" is now available!
Date: 16/02/2011
After 2 years of cooking, photographing, writing and designing Alpine Evolution are proud to announce that their very own cookbook is now available. The recipes are all Annabel's own, many of which you will have tasted whilst on holiday, and all are designed so you can recreate them at home.
The book is available in either of the Chalets, or by post (£20 or 25 euros). Please contact us for more details.
Happy Cooking!
Help a London Child 2010 - Alpine Evolution lends a hand
Date: 21/12/2010
Alpine Evolution recently supported 'Help a London Child' at Capital fm's star-studded 'Capital Rocks 2010'.
The night was in aid of raising money for the charity which improves the lives of thousands of vulnerable children living in London, including those who have experienced homelessness, abuse, neglect or poverty, and children who have a disability or encountered serious illness, have suffered a hardship, or have a psychological disorder or addiction. By guests bidding for auction prizes, the evening raised an incredible £320,000.
Alpine Evolution donated a week stay at the Chalet Gertrud Gabl for 2 people along with ski hire, and the Tourism Office of St Anton were very kind to donate 2 ski passes to the cause.
Comments from the Gertrud Gabl...
Date: 14/11/2010
With another winter just around the corner, I thought I would take a tiny step back in time and have another peek at our guest book from the last few years. It is amazing to look back at all those who have passed through the chalet and all of the great times had. I would like to leave you with one more comment from some of our guests who stayed with us in the last week of the 2009/2010 season. I feel that it is a true reflection of all of the teams efforts to make everyone's stay special and a proud sense of achievement for Annabel and I and for Alpine Evolution. How we finished last season is for sure how we are going to begin...and to continue throughout...
"Big thanks and hugs to three superstars! We have had a great week and made especially memorable by the best chalet hosts we have ever met...and we have met some!!! We will return...Lots of love - Karen and David."
St Anton...if they fly me...will they fly my skis???
Date: 10/11/2010
With winter just around the corner and snow capped mountains filling the web cams in St Anton am Arlberg, one must be thinking of their skiing holiday ahead. What to pack, what not to but most important of all, which airline will carry their ski and snowboard equipment and at what cost? Listed below are a few of our beloved airlines travelling to and from the Alps and their baggage allowances for you to have a glance at. It may be worth noting that the allowances given are not set in stone and their pricing may vary depending on your chosen calender dates...
British Airways ~ One bag for check in up to 23kg's.This baggage could hold skis as long as they are within the required dimensions (190cm x 75cm x 65cm). Additional ski bags will be carried at a cost of £28 or £38 for short or long haul respectively!
Easy Jet ~ Checked baggage no more than 20 kg's at a cost of £9 (cannot be skis). £18.50 for an additional ski bag not exceeding 32kg's.
Ryan Air ~ A 15kg baggage allowance for £15 (cannot be skis). Adding an additional ski bag will cost you £40.
Flybe ~ They have an allowance for one checked bag up to 20kg (cannot be skis). Ski bags will be carried but each set of skis will cost you £30 a pop. Be warned it is essential to book your equipment in advance as there is a limit on the number of ski bags they will carry!
Swiss ~ Offers you the chance to check in one bag, weighing no more than 20 kg's and will allow one set of skis, boots and poles per customer to be carried at NO additional cost. Snowboarders can also enjoy the benefits of a board and boots being carried for free!
For those of you who will be travelling further afield to put in some turns, the following airlines may be able to help...
Air Canada ~ They will allow you one checked-bag up to 23kg's (cannot be skis). They will carry your ski bag for an additional £30 but do have strict stipulations in place. These are: use a hard case to carry your equipment or you will need to sign a damage waiver, you may not use the case for any surrounding clothing and pre-registering is a must.
Virgin Atlantic ~ They have a 23kg allowance for checked-baggage and will also allow for a pair of skis and boots to travel free(up to 23kg's). The same applies for the snowboarders amongst us.
So with all of these options in mind and more snow on its way, do not hesitate any further. Both you and your skis can be airborne and on your way in no time at all...St Anton, the Gertrud Gabl or Alte Stadl and Alpine Evolution look forward to seeing you in the Alps!!!
Let it snow, let it snow, let it...
St Anton am Arlberg...and just a few more!
Date: 01/11/2010
Arlberg Ski Area: St.Anton, St Christoph, Pettneu, Stuben, Zurs, Lech, Sonnenkopf
Marked ski runs: 280km or 174miles
Off-piste options: 180km or 112miles
Your Arlberg ski pass will allow you to make use of the 84 cable cars and lift systems throughout the ski area. This means that your day can be spent moving through the differing resorts with ease and taking in some spectacular mountain scenery. The highest reachable point of which will be Valluga at a staggering 9,276feet(2,811metres). Once at the top you can take in the breathtaking sights from the viewing platform and believe you me, you will not have wanted to forget the camera!!!
St Anton am Arlberg... a few more facts for you!
Date: 26/07/2010
Longest downhill run: Vallugagrat - Ulmer Hutte - St.Anton = 10.2km or 6.3miles
Total number of lifts in Arlberg ski area: 84
Transport capacity of the 84 lifts per hour: 123 014 persons
With the resort of St Anton lying at an altitude of 4290 feet(1300m) and St Christoph at 5905 feet(1800m) both offer the skiing enthusiast a top on health. Anyone breathing in the oxygen rich alpine air between 4290 feet and 9240 feet is deriving the full benefit of both a physical and general well-being. The reason for this is that the mountain air has a efficacious effect on your entire body, and in particular your lungs and cardiovascular system.
Happy and healthy days for all!!!
Corfu - Stunning summer villa for rent near St Stephano with Annabel as your private chef
Date: 30/06/2010
Perched high amongst the olive groves above St Stephano and Kassiopi is the beautiful House on the Hill. The house exudes calm and tranquillity, with unbeatable views across the Mediterranean and over the blue mountains to Albania. Originally an old bake house, it has been lovingly restored and renovated to a very high standard, with gorgeous trimmings from around the world - Morrocan tents and lanterns, rustic French linen and fabrics and a wonderful mix of natural materials.
Some of you may know, I was very fortunate to have cooked in The House on the Hill for 2 weeks last summer and I have been invited back this year by the owners as the chef in residence. It is an absolute joy for me, as amongst the 4 acre garden there are wonderful tomatoes, beans, aubergines, courgettes, green peppers and basil, which somehow break through the red hard soil and burst into colour and flavour in the hot summer sun. Lunches and dinners are Mediterranean in style, with lots of plates of fresh salads and grilled vegetables, whole fish, bbq's and apparently this year I am being taught how to use the family's wood burning pizza oven...which was the old baking oven.
There are still a few weeks in August available and now is the time to book this unique summer escape... Call either Jason or myself on 07954 357443 for further information and available weeks.
St Anton am Arlberg... a few facts for you!
Date: 23/06/2010
Valley Altitude: 1304m
Number of full time residents: 2680
Average Annual Snowfall: 7 meters
Host to the World Famous Ski Club Arlberg: In 1901, six enthusiastic locals skied from St Anton to St Christoph and ended up at the notorious "Hospiz". After plenty of Gluehwein and Schnapps they founded one of the first official Ski Clubs in the Alps. At present the SCA has over 7000 members from 46 nations.
Thank you for joining the Evolution...
Date: 13/05/2010
It was three years ago that both Annabel and I decided to form Alpine Evolution. Three wonderful years that have passed us by and three brilliant years that have been filled with good times, great memories and loads of laughter…
Looking back over the season that has been (2009/2010) and taking everything into account we find ourselves fortunate to have had such an amazing season. In part there was and hopefully always will be those epic days we all shared on the mountain together and for the other…our guests. Our guests, our friends who brought so much life to the Gertrud Gabl and added their own stories to the chapters of our time in St.Anton. Guests both old and new whose support and encouragement have added to the overall success of our season. To you all…a massive thank you, and we hope that you will continue to join us in the years to come.
We would also like to thank all of the respective Ski Agencies for a job well done and for all that they have done for us in the past and the present, we really appreciate all you hard your work.
Looking ahead we are both really excited about the future of Alpine Evolution. Our portfolio of chalets in St.Anton is set to grow as we are taking on a smaller six person chalet, “Der Alte Stadle”, to run alongside our flagship chalet, “The Gertrud Gabl” for the 2010/2011 winter season. We have decided to take our expansion slow and keep any new properties small as we do not want to loose sight of what our guests really need and what our company is really about. We are and always will be committed to providing all of our guests with a personal, honest and flexible service which we feel is an essential part of any ski holiday. We continue to build on our product and level of service and take to heart all of the suggestions that have been put forward to us by some of those who have stayed. We are always looking to offer something new and fresh in the luxury chalet industry.
We are at present busy building new webpages on to our site to incorporate the new chalet which we hope will be finalised by the beginning of June. Should any of you like to know of its availability and pricing before hand please feel free to contact us at any time. As for the Gertrud Gabl, availability and prices for the winter season ahead can also be found on our current website.
In closing we would like to wish everyone a fantastic summer and look forward to seeing you all in the winter ski season ahead…go on…immerse yourself in our hospitality, immerse yourself in Alpine Evolution!
Rendl home run - covered in snow for Easter
Date: 05/04/2010
After a spate of warm weather two weeks ago, a cold front has moved in and covered the resort once more in a blanket of white. Last week the tempuratures plumeted and brought snow almost every night and blue skies during the day. The skiing was excellent, and the pistes in very good condition - especially on the top of Schindler. Today we have 15cm of fresh snow in the village and 40cm up top... Just as Jason thought he had finally put the chains away for the winter!
We still have some rooms left this week, so for anyone looking to get a weekend break in from the 8th - 11th April, give us a ring or send us an e mail...
The next step in the Evolution... "Der Alte Stadl" a cosy 6 person chalet for 2010/2011
Date: 18/02/2010
Annabel and Jason are proud to introduce our latest edition to Alpine Evolution. The following winter season, 2010/2011, will see a newly converted and luxurious 6 person chalet in our program. The chalet, known as the "Alte Stadl" (The Old Barn), was part of an old dairy farm which has recently been renovated to a very high standard. We have been looking for an addition to the established Chalet Gertrud Gabl for a while now, and this chalet certainly ticks all our boxes.
The chalet continues to follow a contemporary blend of old and new, with plenty of space to relax and put your feet up. The 3 bedrooms, all of which are en-suite, are a good size and will offer a very comfortable night\'s sleep. The open plan living and dining area, with a modern fire place, will allow our guests time to enjoy the comfort and fine cuisine that is very much a part of Alpine Evolution. The chalet is perfect for either a family or a small group of friends.
Please continue to follow our latest news for more information on the continuing Evolution. Bookings are now being taken and can be made direct. Either call us on 0043 664 4460966 or e mail info@alpine-evolution.com.
Go on... Immerse Yourself!
Guest Comment 31/01/2010 - 07/02/2010
Date: 09/02/2010
Back again to Chalet Gertrud Gabl, and once more a truly amazing holiday, you guys are without a doubt the best in the business - hope to see you again soon!
Mr Will Carnwath
Guest comments 20/12/09 - 27/12/09
Date: 11/01/2010
Thanks for giving us such a fantastic Christmas on the slopes. The food, the service and the chalet are all superb and your attention to detail is fantastic. We will spread the word about Alpine Evolution and sign us up for a copy of Annabel's cook book when it comes out!
Mr and Mrs T Allen
Happy New Year from St. Anton!
Date: 02/01/2010
Well another decade is upon us and 2010 has become a reality...
We would like to wish all of our families, friends and clients both old and new a very happy and prosperous New Year. May it be a year full of smiles, laughter and awesome snow for you all.
We look forward to seeing you all again very soon in the Arlberg...
P.S: Another day of fresh snow is upon us!!!
St.Anton winter in full swing!!!
Date: 29/12/2009
As the snow falls gently in the resort and everyone is preparing for the New Year, we thought it would be good to look back to the start of the season and share with you the events that have been.
A late start to the winter saw St.Anton able to complete the new Rendl Station. An inspiring lift system that can only add to the development of St.Anton as one of Europe's leading resorts. Its new position allows for all to move between the two main ski areas of St.Anton with ease and more importantly without the hassle of a short bus ride to and from the lift...yes that is right both of the main lift stations are within easy walking distance of each other. The design itself allows for comfort and efficiency with the new 8-seater cabins being able to transport 2000 people per hour to the 2030 metre top station. Your mere 8 minute journey to the top will be even more comfortable and not so chilly as all of the cabins have been fitted with heated seats. A new look top station with restaurants and bar are all part of the new Rendl experience and not forgetting too that they have increased the snow making capabilities by 200%. Rendl here I come!!!
Early December saw the Christmas market bring the pedestrian zone to life. As the smell of Christmas cookies and Gluwien filled the air both local and visitor alike braved the evening chill to mark the start of the holidays and another winter season. The highlight of the market had to be the parade of the "Krampusse" or Christmas devils which is a true spectacle to be seen...perhaps not for the faint hearted!
The famous "Mooserwirt" played host to the RTL production of this year's winter Apres-Ski hits compilation. Visitors were given a taste of what sounds are going to be filling the dance floors of all Apres-Ski venues this season and were not left disappointed as they were treated to a two day spectacle.
December has also seen its fair share of fresh snow which always puts a smile on everyone's face. Continual light dustings and some heavier snow falls have given many the chance to grab some powder and just enjoy themselves. We were also very fortunate to have the snow falling as we ripped open our pressies under the Christmas tree and celebrated the 25th with a glass of Champagne in hand. With more snow forecast I am hoping that we will have an epic snow season ahead and endless powder days to put a smile on the dial.
And now all that is left are the New Year preparaitons...gluwien to be made, fireworks to be bought and Champagne put on ice ready for one and all to see in the new year...2010 look out!!!
The Times Chalet Chef 2010 FINALIST
Date: 17/11/2009
Alpine Evolution were extremely proud to have got through to the finals of the first ever 'Times Chalet Chef' competition. Over 50 chalet companies were nominated and over 500 votes made. On Monday Annabel headed down to Food at 52 in London to compete in a cook-off against the two other 'high end' short listed companies. We had to prepare a canapé (goats cheese and basil with cherry tomatoes on a pastry round), main course (marinated lamb chops with dauphinoise potatoes, kale and roasted baby carrots and a redcurrant and red wine sauce), children’s spaghetti bolognaise and a cake (apple, cranberry and cinnamon oatcakes) for under £30.
The day was hectic but fun, with 6 chalet chefs all cooking around one kitchen table, with our own chopping board and camping gas stove - sharing everything from oven space, potatoes, red wine and redcurrant jelly. It was also nice to see the other 5 finalists (including 3 'mass market' companies) were all single resort specialists. It was great to have a competition high-lighting the changing ethos of food in chalets these days, with fresh produce and a balanced diet at the forefront of peoples minds. Many thanks for those of you who nominated us, and you'll be able to see our beautiful trophy in the Gertrud Gabl when you come and stay!
Heavy early season snowfall turns St Anton white again
Date: 14/10/2009
Over the past two days, the beautiful colours of autumn have vanished and St Anton is white once more. We have had at least 20cm of snow in the village, with an estimate of 60cm of fresh snow up top. The temperatures have also plumeted, with an average daily record of minus 7 and the nights are as low as minus 15.
Although this snow will not last right through until the 27th November, which is when the lifts open, it does mean that the ground has begun to freeze. This means that any subsequent snowfalls should begin to make a base layer.
It's cold work though for all those on the buiding sites and the new Rendlbahn who are still working outside, getting everything finished before the official start of winter. The Rendlbahn has come on leaps and bounds, with the first gondolas up and running already. The mystery now is how the ski piste will bridge the road, but I am sure all will be revealed soon, and we'll let you know as soon as we find out ourselves...
The Gore-Tex Transalpine-Run passes through St Anton on their way from Lech to Galtur
Date: 07/09/2009
The annual Transalpine Marathon from Oberstdorf in Germany to Latsch in Italy passed through St Anton on Sunday. The race, which was invented 5 years ago, comprises of 241 teams of 2. It is spread over 8 days and was based on retracing Hannibal's footsteps accross the Alps. In total it is 240kms long and covers a vertical elevation gain of 14,000m as well as a 1 day sprint.
The Sunday leg (the 2nd day) was from Lech to St Anton and included 2 hard ascents as well as 2 fairly difficult descents. The 3rd leg is from St Anton, up Rendl and through the Moostal valley, to Galtur. The day will cover a cumulative vertical ascent of 2437m over 32.97kms.
It was a truely spectacular sight to see the competitors at the finish line, many still in good spirits and to try to comprehend the sublimity of this race. The pedestrian zone in St Anton was filled with massage tables, deck chairs and food stalls to aid the runners at the end of their tough day. Many were bathing in the street's fresh water fountains, attempting to cool off from the summer heat. For more information on this immense run, and to see results visit www.transalpine-run.com.
Say good bye to the yellow 70's Rendlbahn and hello to a new suped-up, high tech, direct from the centre of St Anton version
Date: 02/09/2009
The major development over the summer in St Anton this year has been the demolition and reconstruction of the Rendlbahn. The iconic yellow bubbles were taken off their cables as soon as the last of the pistes closed, and are now selling for €400 a pop if anyone is interested in a little souvenir. The last of the old pylons have now finally been removed, and the new ones have gone up in their place. For those of you familiar with St Anton, the new bahn will be very similar to the Nassereinbahn.
The idea behind the overhaul was not only to modernise the gondola and therefore allow more people up the mountain, but also to eliminate the short bus journey or 'pulley' system and various travelators. They have reworked the west side of St Anton and replaced the West bus terminal with the new Rendl station. You will now be able to ski straight down from the Mooswerwirt, past Galzig and across to the Rendlbahn and away you go.
The piste is also set to be diverted so that is finishes near the bottom of the station. We will be keeping you updated with more photos and news on the progress - only 3 more months to go before its open!
Guest Comment 12 - 19th April 2009
Date: 01/05/2009
It's been a fantastic holiday, partly the skiing but mostly the great service you guys have given. We've been thoroughly spoilt. The food was great, Annabel - you are really talented. Jason - you looked after us so well, great advice on the mountain hotspots and introducing us to Kaiserschmarn. Thank you for everything.
Mr J and Mrs S Hewson
Guest comments 1st - 8th February 2009
Date: 10/03/2009
Everything was perfect; you looked after all our needs and numerous requests, always with a smile. Food delicious - Jason your willingness to pick us up whenever we called was so marvelous. You made our week so memorable and enjoyable! You are a class act!
Mr J and Mrs A Moss
Guest comments 28th December - 4th January 2009
Date: 09/01/2009
Huge Thank you's once again for your wonderful hospitality. Nothing is ever too much trouble for you - what a unique team you are!! New Years Eve was fantastic, what happy memories we will take home with us. Incredible cuisine once again, thank you Annabel. Beautifully clean rooms, reliable and ALWAYS smiling ferrying from Jason. I could go on and on. The fact that we are back in March speaks for itself.
Mrs L George (UK)
Why skiing pre-Christmas in St Anton is amazing...
Date: 02/12/2008
Private chef for hire... contact Annabel on 07954 357 443
Date: 02/06/2008
During the summer months the Alpine Evolution team are starting new adventures of their own as well as responding to enquiries, keeping you up to date with the happenings of St Anton and Chalet Gertrud Gabl and preparing for the next season ahead.
Jason is going back to South Africa for 2 months to help his father build a camp for children in the Ixopo area. He's heading in for winter (again) but is really excited about the challenge which will entail building accommodation, tending to the vegetable patch, breaking in horses (a new experience) and damming rivers.
Annabel is returning to the Uk to work as a private caterer. These jobs will include cooking for winter guests in their holiday home in France and outside catering events. If you need a chef for any occassion during the summer - for private dinner parties, holiday catering, picnics, preserves, shoots or anything to do with catering please call her on 07954 357 443 or email info@alpine-evolution.com.
Moonlight hike on Christmas Eve
Date: 25/12/2007
As Christmas Eve turned into Christmas Day dawned we were lucky enough to have a perfect full moon and take the opportunity to hike up the piste from St Christoph to Galzig to celebrate Christmas Day at the top, under the stars with 360 degree views of the Arlberg mountains.
Never before has the moonlight hike been so beautiful, with no one else there (except 2 Canadians who were very jealous of our camping stove and gluwein as they huddled over a Jaegermeister and beer) and it was especially wonderful to be hiking up on Christmas Eve and get to the top just after midnight.
At 1.15am we were pretty thankful to get back to a warm and cosy chalet, tired, frozen yet exhilerated and feeling very much alive!
Introducing Chalet Gertrud Gabl
Date: 06/12/2007
For those of you who have been patiently waiting for photos of Chalet Gertud Gabl, we are so pleased to finally show them to you. The chalet looks gorgeous, and the views are just magnificent. Especially on a day like this!
Have a look at our gallery page for some more...
A brief enlightenment on the splendour of snow
Date: 29/09/2007
This is an extract from an article 'Deep Thoughts about the Deep' by Leslie Anthony in Powder Magazine September 2007. To me it somehow puts in to words the majestical awe of snow and the power it has to transform the world into an endless winter playground...
"Few things compare to walking through falling snow, except perhaps skiing through it. Something about tumbling flakes draws you out, teases the Id into consciousness. You're aware of a hovering desire to do something, derive engagement from the gathering medium, to be part of this transformation. At the same time this new and subtle beauty seems to steer your attention from mundane concerns and make fast the moment. A paradox in which tracings of the surrounding world are suddenly more apparent only because they've disappeared, replaced by an entirely new iconography: the intricate patterns of footfalls; flakes fluttering and swirling around corners;corniced constructs of driven snow; mounds bowing over gnarled branches;... drooping hats adorning posts; the cold, fresh, unfathomable smell; pervasive quiet worn like a shroud on a land where every angle is curved, every curve flattened, and every flatness mute."
The Farmer's festival
Date: 15/09/2007
Last Saturday was the day the animals came down from the rich summer pastures, to be tucked up cosy and warm for the winter. With all the cold weather recently the parade wasnt as large as it sometimes is, as many of the sheep and cattle had come down early. The day is really a celebration for the animals of St Anton, and the most productive cattle are adorned with the largest bells and decorative head-dresses.
Summer in St Anton
Date: 09/07/2007
People often ask us, “…what is there to do in St Anton in the summer??” assuming that the town shuts down once the last of the snow has melted away.... here are a just few options:
The summer season is from the last week in June through to mid September. The best months to visit are June and July as the wild flowers are in all their glory. From far away, the fields appear velvety green and it is not until you get close up that you are able see the incredible array of colours.
There are dozens of marked walking trails, ranging from the Sonnenweg which is a lovely meander through the forest where wild fruit is abundant, to more intense routes such as Leutkirche and Darmstatter. On most walks in the Arlberg area, you stumble across an Alm or two, which are open for coffee, cake, plates of fresh speck or Alm cheese. A number of walks follow rivers as they snake through the valleys, and they are a good spot to fill up on pure mountain drinking water.
Lech is also a gorgeous place to walk in the summer, and an area which we are only just beginning to discover for ourselves. The hills are gentle, and you can walk from village to village, past lakes and beautiful dairies, simply taking in the tranquillity of the mountains.
Mountain biking is a fun, fast and rewarding way to see the area. There are numerous tracks, around lakes, through the woods and plenty of downhills (as well as the uphills – naturally!) to feed the adrenaline junkies. The biking scene is becoming more popular here, and they now allow you to take your bike up Rendl gondola. The ultimate challenge in the summer, is the 42km bike marathon which starts in town, then up to Putzenalpe, Gampen, Verwall, Sattlekopf, Rendl and finishes by the swimming pool. There are plenty of places in St Anton to rent bikes.
If you are into rock climbing, there are some bolted routes in Schnann, an easy bike ride from St Anton. They are situated at the mouth of a gorge and vary from 5a to 8c (French grading). It’s a good place to learn.
Lazing by a swimming pool is also a great way to spend a day in the mountains. The views are to die for, and you can dose off listening to the dingling of cow bells and the whistles of Marmottes. There are outdoor pools in St Anton, Lech, Klosterle and Stuben.
Summer, I think, is one of the most spectacular times of year to be in the mountains. Doing sport, in fresh mountain air, surrounded by stunning scenery, can only add to the feel good factor. And it’s great to discover valleys, lakes, rivers and forests you would never imagine were there in the winter.
This season's jam production is under way...
Date: 14/06/2007
With all the warm weather and afternoon showers we are having at the moment, there is plenty of fresh fruit. Here in Tyrol in the summer, there are strawberries, rhubarb, elderflower, wild chives (in Happy Valley), wild raspberries and blueberries (secret location!) and chanterelles. In South Tyrol there is mile after mile of Golden Delicious orchards and cherry trees by the road side.
The Alpine Evolution team have been hard at work making jams such as Strawberry, Strawberry and Vanilla, Rhubarb and Ginger and Apple, Cherry and Elderflower. In chalet Gertrud Gabl, these will be served alongside fresh bread and croissants to kick start your day! They are equally delicious spooned over a bowl of Homemade muesli and natural yoghurt...
Alpine Evolution goes live!
Date: 21/05/2007
Welcome to our website... This has been an incredible work in progress and we really hope that you enjoy mousing through the text and images to get a feel of what Alpine Evolution is all about... We are an independant chalet comapny working solely in St Anton, in an envrionment we feel passionate about, to provide people with what we believe will be a fantastic chalet holiday.
Date: 14/04/2007
The official launch party of Alpine Evolution at the top of Valluga 2!