At some point it had to happen… Dad is going into his well-deserved (pre)retirement and I’m moving forward – now also on paper. By the way, you can’t take that literally with Dad with retirement, because he’s still not really calm. Dad needs tasks. Anyone who knows him even a little bit knows that. But as we all know, there are more than enough of them ☺

But only in turn… What a great summer season! What an exciting year! For our family, 2016 has just started wonderfully. Just over 360 days ago we were gifted with the greatest happiness on earth, Katrin and I became proud parents of our little Felix. The little one is healthy, always good on it and keeps mum and dad on their toes! What he experienced in his first winter season, you can read again here

As a dad, you have the biggest Gaudi when the son is big enough and you can do something with him – preferably sporty ☺ So we two preferred to ride the bike trailer on a bike tour.

On our panoramic paths you can ride a bike – either into the valley end to the Lindlingalm or out of the valley in the direction of Zeller See.

So, on June 1st, the time had come with the takeover. The regulars know that nothing has changed drastically now. No, it was very important to us that we make a smooth transition. I think we have succeeded in doing so. Already in the last years Dad has always withdrawn a little in the hotel, has left the operational tasks and decisions to me. We are all the happier that he does not give up his (favourite) tasks. That means papa still leads the guests on the ski safari to the best slopes of the ski circus, shows them the most beautiful squares during a romantic torchlight hike, provides atmosphere and dance at Rudi’s garage festival, and much more…

Everyone knows: here in Saalbach, athletes get their money’s worth! After playing my first IRONMAN in Klagenfurt in 2014, I stepped a little shorter in terms of sport last summer. Also fine, so completely without training plan and pressure! But since this summer she is back… the desire to sport! Easy to go out, enjoy the good air on the mountains and be active. This is not the only reason why I love the advertised MTB tours with our guests in summer. I think it’s right that I can combine the “work” of guideing with my hobby! One of my new favourite tours is the Saalachtaler-Höhenweg. A challenging tour with crisp ascents, playful single trails and fantastically beautiful views of the grass mountains of the Glemm valley.

Here I am on a casual bike tour with Peter & Co. on the Schattberg.

By the way: ALL BIKERS ON! From 2017 we are a “bike’n soul”-hotel! In addition to the top equipment such as lockable bicycle garage, bike wash station and sports-friendly kitchen, all our guests now also have the opportunity to take part in one of the 3 mTB tours that are advertised daily! With this, we have further expanded our offer for summer guests… where by course the popular tours with Papa Rudi and me are still, or additionally, advertised and take place.

To round off our weekly program, I invite our guests once a week to participate in my wine tasting! I choose delicious white and red wines from various parts of Austria. This is always exciting for me, because I like to use the wine tasting to taste new, good drops myself.

Unfortunately, we also had to experience something very sad this year…

on August 29, 2016, our dear Grandpa Rudi left us after a short illness. We like to think back to the wonderful years with him… his life was marked by a lot of diligence and always full commitment to work and family. He was so proud to see his – and Grandma Barbara’s – life’s work being handed over to the next generation and we will continue with the same burning passion. In addition, I am very happy and grateful that he was able to get to know our Felix!

In memory of Uropa Rudi, our 4-generation photo in August 2016 Even if it is difficult, but life goes on as we know…

In the meantime, two weeks have passed since we opened for the winter season 2016/17. After the first few days I can say with pride: we have once again a top TEAM in the house! I look forward to working with our many hard-working helpers in the kitchen, in the service, on the floor and at the reception. As soon as these lines are ready, I’ll get ready for my next task, I’ll prepare for our KICK-OFF event for this year’s winter season. It is very important to me to start the time together with all employees – and also with a few hours of theory and practice exercises, so that our guests feel well served and comfortable thanks to the professional service. But what our employees don’t know yet: this time we invited our former apprentice and current graduate bartender Daniel to cocktail training! After that, we go bowling together – a certainly fun evening and an optimal start for an exciting winter season.

Now, also on behalf of my family and the team Barbarahof, I wish a nice rest of Advent time and FROHE CHRISTMAS!

We are looking forward to seeing you again in the Barbarahof!
Greetings from Saalbach
Your Roland