AUTUMN IN VAL GARDENA: FOOD FESTIVALS, BURNING DOLOMITES & EVENTS

AUTUMN IN VAL GARDENA: FOOD FESTIVALS, BURNING DOLOMITES & EVENTS

by | Sep 19, 2023 | Existing Clients, Press, Press realeases

Val Gardena lies in the heart of the Italian Dolomites, where dramatic scenery and limestone peaks provide the backdrop for an unforgettable Autumn holiday, set within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The three villages of Ortisei (1,236m), S. Cristina (1,428m) and Selva (1,563m) provide the most unique setting for an Autumn escape. Val Gardena is the cradle of South Tyrolean art, specifically wood carving. This art form remains a key earner for the valley to this day, second only second to tourism.

In September and October, the imposing mountains shine with shades of red and orange, “enrosadira” creating an enchanting panorama. This is the beginning of the autumn season in the Dolomites, offering breathtaking views. The hay harvest has come to an end and the cows, sheep and goats return from the mountain pastures.

 24th September – 15th October Culinarium Urtijei

Urtijei, the local name for Ortisei is one of the main villages of Val Gardena and is also known for its great culinary diversity. Michelin-starred restaurants with an international flair, local restaurants serving delicious South Tyrolean dishes, Italian pizzerias and Ladin farm cuisines: there’s something for everyone thanks to the outstanding meals from three different culinary traditions.

Culinarium Urtijei runs over three weeks celebrating all that is ‘food’ from the Michelin star ‘Anna Stuben’ to family run ‘Pizzeria Lamm’ there is a dining experience to suit, with 10 restaurants all focussed on offering the finest regional produce and delicious meals to celebrate these festival weeks.

https://www.valgardena.it/en/sommerurlaub-dolomiten/events-highlights-groeden/culinarium-urtijei-val-gardena/#c7890

 Market of leaves – Monday 9th October

A sensational market Every year, the leaf market “Segra Sacun” is the largest and most traditional market in Val Gardena and for generations the autumn valley highlight. The market is filled with numerous stands offering culinary delights and handcrafted products.  The pear is the typical autumnal fruit which will catch your eye as you walk around – decorated with colourful ribbons, tradition demands young men give the young woman who has caught their eye a pear as a sign of their interest! Wood-carved pears are tokens to take home!

https://www.valgardena.it/en/detail/base/events/traditional-market-segra-sacun/2B028839716F4B549C01A07702CC8F25/

 Burning Dolomites From mid-September on, there is a very special phenomenon in Val Gardena: Burning Dolomites, “enrosadira” an incredible natural spectacle at sunset! The colours of the larch trees become more and more intense and the sun sets the peaks of the Dolomites on fire.

Guided Walks for sunrise and sunset to see this incredible phenomena are available during the Autumn months: https://www.valgardena-active.com/en/summer

The Mills in Bulla – stepping back in time – in the past, the „Bergweiler Pufels“ were Val Gardena’s granaries. Between three and seven farms were built to manage the municipal mills – the “Pufeler Schlucht” and just one remains restored, offering an insight in to the milling of corn in the past. A 2km walk through the gorge and along the Bulla stream is available as well as weekly guided tours of the partially preserved buildings from the 18th and 19th centuries.

https://www.valgardena.it/en/addresses/detail/base/poi/st-ulrich-ortisei-val-gardena/mills-in-pufels-bulla/BC8F0B865AFB41CF9DDD305B912D4FF7/

www.valgardena.it 

ENDS

For further information on Val Gardena, press trips or images please contact: Vanessa Fisher vanessa@vanessafisher.com 07957 618525

Summer News from the Belleville Valley 2023

Summer News from the Belleville Valley 2023

by | Jun 5, 2023 | Existing Clients, News, Press, Press realeases

From the village of Saint-Martin-de-Belleville to the high ridges of Val Thorens and to the crystal-clear waters of Les Menuires, never has there been a better time to discover the flower laden mountain pastures and snow-capped peaks of the Vallée des Belleville, in the French Alps. 

ALPINE SUMMER HIGHLIGHTS 2023 – see full press kit for more details.

 NEW SOAP BOX CHALLENGE – ON YOUR MARKS, GET SET, GO! 

Amateur racers go head-to-head  – handmade, motor-less vehicles, judged for their aesthetic, speed and handling, careering down mountain roads and paths – a feast for the eyes awaits! With three soap box races to enjoy this summer, soak up the atmosphere at these three locations:  

02 July – Saint Martin de Belleville

14 July – Les Menuires

13 August – Val Thorens 

Entry: €20 for one race or €50 for all three

MAGICAL “LE NANT BRUN” REFUGE OPENS ITS DOORS

Located in the heart of the charming Nant Brun Valley, lies a namesake refuge hideaway at 1,500m. Closed for four years, two friends have renovated this labour of love into an unmistakable bolthole. Stay the night or drop by to wine and dine, during a day of trail hiking or biking. Prices from xx

NEW HIGALIK 4* HOTEL OPENS IN LES MENUIRES – PERFECT FOR GOURMETS 

The new state of the art Hotel Higalik “ice house” in Les Menuires wows guests with a vast spa complex, set against commanding views over the breath-taking peaks. Le Telemark restaurant serves selected cheese specialities and a refined brasserie menu. Arranged over 10 floors, this Alpine jewel blends modernity and traditional wooden design harmoniously into the landscape and opens for it’s first summer in Les Menuires.

Double rooms from €100 per night: www.higalik-hotel.com/en  

NEW “HAMEAU DE KASHMIR” RESIDENCE, VAL THORENS – PERFECT FOR FAMILIES 

This summer sees the opening of the luxurious Hameau de Kamir Residence on 8th July. Inspired by the colours of the Kashmir region, this family focussed apartment hotel of unsurpassed luxury invites guests to relax and unwind in the pool, sauna and spa, with unparalleled views of the surrounding spectacular mountain range of Val Thorens. 

Namaste! Hameau de Kashmir are hosting “Altitude Yoga” sessions on the terrace each Tuesday morning or Thursday afternoon for 15 euros per session. 

www.le-hameau-du-kashmir.com 

NEW UNIQUE BRAVA VELA MICROBREWERY AT 1,400M

Bellville’s first microbrewery tempts visitors from across the globe in Le Chatelard. Housed within a former goat farm, owners *Julien and Sophie proudly showcase their collection, from “La Masse” (brown beer), “La Belleville” (a golden, light blonde version) to Le Thorens (pale ale with citrus notes). The niche “Brava Vela” brewery began life with Julien creating ales using his mother’s old cooking pot. With 97% of all ingredients being locally sourced, this microbrewery is making a name for itself on the world brewer’s map. 

www.bravavela.fr  Images

NEW CRAFT BEER FEST, ST MARTIN DE BELLEVILLE  15-16 July

Sample the delights of Brava Vela* and a host of other local producers at the Craft Beer Festival in St. Martin de Belleville from 15 – 16 July, with workshops, demonstrations, tastings and a competition to discover the finest craft beer. 

RAILS, SKILLS AND BIKING TRICKS FOR HIGH KICKS 

Tots, tweens and teens will thrive this summer in the natural bike park at La Croisette, modelled on terrain found in the mountains. This mini bike park consists of 4 trail levels (green, blue, red and black). Dedicated to beginners, the park features moguls, arches and small jumps to build confidence and speed with ease. 

Meanwhile, a new skate park has opened in Preyerand. Free and open to all, this high alpine delight at 1,800m features steps, rails, slides and pyramids for high kicks. 

SAVE THE DATE:

18-20 August: MOUNTAIN BIKE FRENCH CUP

Les Menuires plays host to the Mountain Bike French Cup this summer from 18 – 20 August. The best French cross-country and downhill riders meet to battle it out across technical and dramatic terrain. 

9-10th September FRENCH RIVER TROUT FISHING CHAMPS

Les Menuires and the Belleville Valley are set to host the French River Trout Fishing Championships from 9 – 10 September. Fishing enthusiasts from across France work in pairs to battle it out for the highest catch of the day.  All fish are released at the end of the competition and hooks are barbless. 

3* MICHELIN-STARRED DINNER CONCERT AT LA BOUITTE

Take a seat for the evening of a lifetime on 27 July, where guests are indulged with a 3* Michelin starred tasting and wine pairing menu, to the unsurpassed musical charm of world-renowned Cellist Ophelie Gaillard. 

Tickets from: €390, email: info@la-bouitte.com 

PROFILE OF AN ENTHUSIAST: 

HIVE OF ACTIVITY – KELLY DUQUEINE 

Having spent 12 years working as a beekeeper for an industrial conglomerate, Kelly returned to the traditional side of the profession in France. Operating closely with the Conservancy, working to safeguard the European dark bee, Kelly is aiming to re-establish the bee’s genetics and ensure its safeguarding in the Belleville Valley. 

Every Friday, Kelly offers tours and discovery workshops to raise public awareness for this fragile species.

*HOMEBREW – JULIEN & SOPHIE 

Julien, a former restaurateur and Sophie, a former scientist, joined forces to embark on a brewing love story. Julien has been brewing his own ales for 10 years in his cellar with his mother’s old cooking pot. Turning this project into reality, following training courses to hone their skills, the goal is to combine art and science to create high quality, memorable brews. 

The launch of Brava Vela is the culmination of beers brewed with love at 1,400m. 

HIGH ALTITUDE ICE CREAM– MARTIAL VUILLEMIN 

Chef Martial Vuillemin creates homemade, local and ethical ice creams and sorbets, with full control over all aspects of traceability. The cows graze on luscious pasture at 2,000m and the milk is churned into sumptuous scoops without any use of pesticides, colouring or artificial flavouring. Martial’s latest mission is to develop savoury sorbet recipes using herbs from the doorstep. 

Full press info can be found at:

https://drive.google.com/file/d/1jtW_hQzfU8HBPwHHu86uidNPzzZRnmuY/view 

Images: 

https://mediabase.lesmenuires.com/en/

https://mediabase.st-martin-belleville.com/ 

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For further information please contact: Vanessa Fisher, 07957 618 525 vanessa@vanessafisher.com  

Val Gardena receives GSTC certificate for sustainable tourism

Val Gardena receives GSTC certificate for sustainable tourism

by | Jun 5, 2023 | Existing Clients, News, Press, Press realeases

Val Gardena’s commitment to sustainability has now been confirmed by the GSTC certification (Global Sustainable Tourism Council).

Val Gardena is a popular holiday destination in the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has now obtained a certificate, recognised all over the world, confirming its sustainable tourism efforts. This means it commits to applying the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards. Obtaining this certification is by no means a final result, rather the official start of a broader project that focuses on environmental protection, social responsibility, and hospitality for an increasingly sustainable tourism.

In 2020, a working group consisting of different stakeholders, including professional associations and members of Val Gardena’s three municipalities, was founded under the motto “Respect the Dolomites”. Its aim was to raise awareness about sustainability among the valley’s guests and residents through events and various initiatives. It includes sporting events such as the Sellaronda Bike Day, the valorisation of local crafts with the ‘Made in – DOLOMITES Val Gardena – with LOVE’ label, waste management, spring water with the ‘Ega dla Dolomites’ project, the protection of mountain pastures, paths and grazing livestock, the use of clean energy from hydroelectric sources, and, in general, mobility, with the Val Gardena Mobile Card, charging stations for electric vehicles and the use of e-bikes.

To highlight this commitment, Val Gardena/Gröden started following the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) standards, and its choice was rewarded with the certification from 08.03.2023.

The Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) is an organisation founded in 2007 by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to promote sustainability and social responsibility in tourism. The certificate is awarded in Italy by Vireo, the only GSTC- accredited body in Italy. The audit is carried out based on specific methods, procedures and timeframes, which guarantees the entire system’s unbiased approach and trustworthiness. During the process, Vireo’s auditors visited and talked with various institutions and companies to assess whether the required criteria were met.

In addition to the criteria required by GSTC for tourist destinations, Val Gardena aims to reach tangible goals by 2026. These include creating a mobility centre which will develop projects for car-free and accessible connections; reducing traffic on mountain passes (Gardena Pass and Sella Pass) by 20%; expanding bicycle paths on the mountain passes by 20%; increasing arrival on public transport by 10 to 15%; double e-charging stations; expanding renewable energy sources for businesses by 25%; reducing printed material and use of plastic by 20%.
The formation of verifiable climate concepts and their implementation is the mission.

Moreover, Val Gardena is working with the province of South Tyrol on the “Klimaland Südtirol” and the “KlimaPlan Energie – Südtirol 2050” initiatives to significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions to achieve the Paris Agreement climate goals. South Tyrol’s largest source of CO2 emissions come from transport: more than 40% of fossil fuel emissions, mostly caused by private cars, which in turn results in heavy traffic, especially at certain times of the year.

The Val Gardena Mobility Centre was founded to tackle this matter, and its primary task is to solve traffic issues. Public transport will become the tool used to monitor and control traffic, while leveraging bus and lift connections will create alternatives to private transport.
Let’s promote the “Stay longer, dive deeper” long-term holiday concept for our guests. Each extra, car-free day reduces arrival and departure traffic, thus markedly reducing emissions.

Other sustainable projects will, among other things, also ensure adequate mobility solutions should the valley host the 2029 World Ski Championships.

 For further information visit https://www.valgardena.it/en/respect-the-dolomites/

 -ENDS-

UK PR Contact Vanessa Fisher 07957 618525 vanessa@vanessafisher.com

CHEF’S TABLE: SUINSOM IN VAL GARDENA GAINS MICHELIN STAR

CHEF’S TABLE: SUINSOM IN VAL GARDENA GAINS MICHELIN STAR

by | Feb 7, 2023 | Existing Clients, News, Press realeases

CHEF’S TABLE: SUINSOM IN VAL GARDENA GAINS MICHELIN STAR

Suinsom located at the Hotel Tyrol in Selva has become the third hot spot in Val Gardena to be awarded a Michelin star, the highest accolade within gastronomy.

Michelin starred young chef Alessandro Martellini operates tirelessly to create a delicate menu to spark the senses, dominated by the spirit of the mountains in two beautiful ‘stuben’, where 200-year-old wood lines the panelled dining rooms inside the Hotel Tyrol. Suinsom, meaning ‘at the summit’ offers gourmet cuisine combining local ingredients with a modern twist.

Val Gardena sits within the UNESCO World Heritage Site and the legendary Sellaronda – one of the best known ski circuits in the world – where ultra-modern lift facilities allow access to 500km of ski slopes, 115km of cross country ski trails and 30km of winter hiking paths. Together the three villages of Ortisei (1,236m), Saint Cristina (1,428m) and Selva Val Gardena (1,563m) create a vast snow bowl.

Memorable dining experiences are on offer with 65 mountain lodges scattered across the slopes of Val Gardena. Val Gardena promises a gastronomic adventure ranging from traditional alpine to highly sophisticated plates, with a south Tyrolean influence. From gourmet lunch, afternoon tea, apres ski, special evening ‘hutte’ meals, there is a hut to suit!

 

TASTE SENSATIONS

Feast in one of Val Gardena’s many unforgettable mountain lodges and restaurants, boasting some of the most sought after alpine cuisine in the world, five of which feature in the famous Michelin Guide:

 NEW FOR 22 Suinsom at the Hotel Tyrol, Selva* Michelin starred

Young chef Alessandro Martellini operates tirelessly to create a delicate menu to spark the senses, dominated by the spirit of the mountains. https://www.tyrolhotel.it/en/suinsom.htm

 Le Stuben, Alpenroyal Gourmet * Michelin starred

The skilful Mario Porcelli from Puglia successfully combines nostalgic flavours from his native region with distinct Alpine influences, using sophisticated techniques. https://www.alpenroyal.com/en/hotel-restaurant-le-stuben.asp

 Anna Stuben, Ortisei * Michelin starred

Reimund Brunner creates sophisticated plates with a firm focus on local Alpine produce. https://www.relaischateaux.com/gb/italy/restaurant/anna-stuben-alto-adige-ortisei-val-gardena-dolomiti

 Nives – Michelin recommended

A mountain style dining room with an unforgettable gastronomic experience, where modern fare is served with regional ingredients. https://www.hotel-nives.com/en/restaurants.asp

 Chalet Gerard – Michelin recommended

Overlooking the Sella mountains and Sassolungo peak, this is the perfect piste-side location to while away the hours, serving high-class traditional cuisine. Doubling as a guesthouse, this chalet boasts a sauna, fitness studio and hot tub.https://www.chalet-gerard.com/en/

 ENDS:

Photo link:

https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/c1i6onxsipylc2ujry9ld/h?dl=0&rlkey=oazaf3w520ln0r32x7hlyh9b6

  1. Dolomites Val Gardena

 For further information, images and press visits please contact: Vanessa Fisher PR, 07957 618525 vanessa@vanessafisher.com

FEBRUARY FRENCH CHALET DEALS FROM OVO NETWORK

FEBRUARY FRENCH CHALET DEALS FROM OVO NETWORK

by | Feb 1, 2023 | Existing Clients, Press realeases

Chalet rental specialist, OVO Network, now boasts over 340 hand-picked chalets and apartments in over 30 ski resorts across the French and Swiss Alps including the Aravis, Espace Diamant, Evasion Mont Blanc, Grand Massif, Chamonix Mont Blanc, Portes du Soleil, 3 Valleys, Grand Domaine, Paradiski, Sainte Foy Tarentaise and San Bernardo.

For winter 2022-23, OVO Network brings 11 new chalets to the rental market, including new properties in the picturesque resorts of La Clusaz, Combloux and Châtel.

Save up to €3000 this February

Stay from 4 February 2023 and discover some fantastic savings on selected chalets across the Alps. Following multiple fresh snowfalls, resorts are now in perfect condition for a long- awaited trip to a charming French ski village. Save up to €3,000 on seven nights staying at the heavenly Chalet Le Mousqueton in La Clusaz, with many other gorgeous chalets such as Chalet Les Vosnes in Combloux and Chalet Gueret in Morzine offering savings of over €1500.

View all 4 February discounts here

SAVE €1,222 at Chalet Argali, Le Grand Bornand

Unrivalled views and reliable snow awaits at this high-altitude luxury chalet – now for just €5,968 (normally €7190) or €426 per person (based on 14 people sharing). https://www.ovonetwork.com/en/chalets/france/le-grand-bornand/chalet-argali?df=2023-02-04&dt=2023-02-11

SAVE €1,600 at Chalet Les Brevins, Manigod

Take in the panoramic views of the setting sun from a private hot tub on the terrace of this 5* French retreat – now for just €3,990 (normally €5590) or €332.50 per person (based on 12 people sharing). https://www.ovonetwork.com/en/chalets/france/manigod/chalet-les-brevins?df=2023-02-04&dt=2023-02-11

SAVE €1,118 at Chalet Joux Verte, Les Gets

Stay in Portes du Soleil at this 5* gem close to unparalleled skiing and winter walking trails – now just €4,472 (normally €5590) or €559 per person (based on eight people sharing).https://www.ovonetwork.com/en/chalets/france/les-gets/chalet-joux-verte?df=2023-02-04&dt=2023-02-11

 

11 February 2023 – Half Term Special –Save 1778 Euros in Chalet Gueret in Morzine -sleeps 14 and perfectly placed to ski the Portes du Soleil now €7112 or € 508 per person [https://www.ovonetwork.com/en/chalets/france/morzine/chalet-gueret?df=2023-02-11&dt=2023-02-18

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For further information, case studies or images please contact: Vanessa Fisher PR, 07957 618 525, Vanessa@vanessafisher.com

 

Image link: https://wetransfer.com/downloads/38761a0bbd4434262f3be18e002b1dda20230124113859/9ea7b53ae4fb4dbd74b574d6c1a3c95e20230124113917/fb7f63

Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre and Boat Rental Thames

Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre and Boat Rental Thames

by | Jun 21, 2022 | Existing Clients, Press, Press realeases

On Tuesday 17 May, Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre and Conferencing hosted 80 staff, family and friends for the first ‘community paddle’ evening on the riverfront.

Bisham Abbey staff member Alona, connected with local families, many hosting Ukrainian refugees and approximately 20 families gathered on the lawn to share the river front activities provided free of charge by Boat Rental Thames.

Bisham Abbey’s manager James Ewart commented, “We wanted to showcase to our staff and local community the wonderful riverfront we have here at Bisham Abbey. Boat Rental Thames offer all sorts of activities to help people to experience the river, be it on a paddle board, kayak or electric boat. Many of our staff haven’t had the chance to try these and to have so many local Ukrainian families join us as well made for a very special evening in the sunshine.”

Guy Fisher, Owner & MD of Boat Rental Thames added, “we expected to be hosting staff and their families and were absolutely delighted that so many local families supported the evening by bringing their Ukrainian guests. It was a real pleasure to show everyone all of our river craft, the new water bikes were a big hit and the younger family members were able to take a trip out on our skippered electric boats.”

The evening saw over 50 people take a boat of some kind on the river, over 80 guests shared the BBQ and drinks organised by Bisham Abbey on the lawn.

Local boy Walter, was delighted to be gifted this Boat Rental Thames t shirt, the Ukrainian family who are being hosted by the boys family, insisted he be given it for their kindness!

images copyright @creativecapturemedia