REGIONBAD GLEICHENBERG
Transcription
REGIONBAD GLEICHENBERG
REGIONBAD GLEICHENBERG THE MAGAZINE The love of my life GESUND werden und bleiben. Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine EDITORIAL CONTENTS 4-7 A cordial „Grüß Gott!“ from the Region Bad Gleichenberg! The rounded, wooded hilltops of Gleichenberg rise into the sky of South-Eastern Styria, clearly visible from afar as important landmarks. They show travellers the way to a region full of beautiful landscapes and culinary delights. They also embellish the front page of this magazine. The region of Bad Gleichenberg is truly special. Here you can expect an atmosphere that will fascinate you from the very first moment. In this spa town venerable mansions nestle between mighty, giant trees and the tranquil squares and secluded corners of the spa gardens invite you to linger and give strength and peace. Here a 180-years-old history meets a perceptible emergence into the modern age. Around the historic town a flourishing region shines in the diversified colours of the fours seasons. The Styrian regional poet Peter Rosegger had already fallen in love with this landscape when 8-12 he wrote in 1906: “Gleichenberg is a soft sedan entwined by flowers, where one can well indulge for a few weeks in sweet idleness and nonentity.” We would like to follow this invitation. Since 2012 we boast a new slogan: Region Bad Gleichenberg – the love of my life. It is easy to fall in love with this country, as it has indeed plenty to offer. In the present magazine we try to show you the many different faces of the region. Tradition, health, peace, nature and culinary pleasure reflect the diverse facets of this unique cultural landscape and are included as topics and guideposts in this issue. We hope you will enjoy browsing this magazine and have fun visiting Bad Gleichenberg, so that it may become the “love of your life”! Cordially, the team of the tourism association Bad Gleichenberg. 13 14-17 18-21 22-25 26-29 Bad Gleichenberg is „the love of my life“ TRADITION Origin of a great success story Flirting in the Region Bad Gleichenberg HEALTH Relaxation for body and soul TRANQUILLITY Timeless balm for the soul Adventures all around the region NATURE Hiker’s paradise Bad Gleichenberg CULINARY PLEASURE 30-33 Managing director Thomas Gußmagg and the team of the tourism association Bad Gleichenberg look forward to your visit. Legal notice: media owner and editor: Tourismusverband Region Bad Gleichenberg, Obere Brunnenstraße 1, 8344 Bad Gleichenberg. Concept, layout and implementation: Werner J. Resch, Reschco GmbH -Büro für gute Werbung, Kirchberg Raab, Text: Mag. Thomas Gußmagg, Corporate Media Service GmbH & Co KG, Fotos: Werner Krug, Werner J. Resch Shutterstock, Chris Zenz, Ria Mang. Printed by: Dorrong, Graz Excellent taverns and wine restaurants 34 Top-quality educational institutions 35 How to find us 3 4 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Walk hand in hand and discover one of the most beautiful regions in Styria. A place, history-charged and rich in tradition while at the same time modern and futureoriented, and a diversified and smoothly rolling landscape await to be discovered. GESUND werden und bleiben. The love of my life 5 6 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine From the castle Schloss Kapfenstein to the spa gardens in Bad Gleichenberg countless places invite you to linger and enjoy the atmosphere. Numerous hiking trails lead around the spa town Bad Gleichenberg and offer marvellous views into the region. Count Constantin von Wickenburg looks upon „his“ Bad Gleichenberg with the new kurhaus and spa. TIMELESS love and unlimited beauty “I love this corner of the world” Peter Rosegger fell victim to the charms of Bad Gleichenberg when he wrote this declaration of love in 1906. What remains today is the fascination for a landscape that combines, in a unique and bewitching way, history and tradition. It is this harmony, developed over the course of 180 years, that captures the visitor and will not let him forget. You can leave all your cares behind while strolling about the spa gardens – past old villas and calm giant trees invitingly spreading their branches. In the summer these trees give shade and provide the setting for many harmonious events. They exude a timeless peace and quiet, standing in the same spot since forever, defying tempests and time. Dip into this green haven, merge with nature shaped by human hands. Around the historic place a flourishing region with its lush meadows and thick forests shines in the colours of the four seasons. Numerous hiking trails invite you to discover this prolific cultural landscape. Marvellous views and culinary pleasures reward the hiker. Rich Region Bad Gleichenberg, timelessly beautiful, the love of my life. 7 8 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine The season in Bad Gleichenberg The Region Bad Gleichenberg is a place steeped in history. Archaeological traces indicate that human settlement already existed here 6000 years ago. Even the Romans made use of the healing power of the surrounding springs. In 1834 began the story of a spa town that leads up to the present day. 9 10 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine The Villa Wickenburg became the ancestral seat of the count’s family in Bad Gleichenberg. Drinking the waters early in the morning was a social event. The exclusive society would meet to drink a glass of “Gleichenberger Wasser”, accompanied by relaxing music. The church and clubhouse formed the economic centre of the up-and-coming spa town. Medical care in Bad Gleichenberg was always state-of-the-art. The pneumatic chamber enjoyed a worldwide reputation. Even brine inhalation cabins were part of the repertoire. Count Constantin von Wickenburg with the founder share of the “Gleichenberger Johannisbrunnen Aktiengesellscahft” of July 1, 1834. ORIGIN of a great success story The curative water was initially transported in stoneware jugs. Soon they would be substituted by the handier glass bottles. In 1822 doctor Ignaz Werle, brother-in-law of Archduke Johann, wrote a treatise on the special curative power of the springs in the valley of Gleichenberg. He motivated the Styrian governor of the time, imperial count Constantin von Wickenburg to undertake a trip to South-Eastern Styria. The open-minded count, thinking in economic and modern terms, went to see the place for himself and was taken not only by the effervescent springs but also by the charms of the delightful landscape. The commercial use of the Gleichenberg curative water was promptly implemented. The “Gleichenberger und Johannis-Brunnen Actien Verein” was founded as early as 1834. The cooperation stated in the protocol of the constituent meeting their purpose as follows: “To buy the mineral springs of the Johannis well; to publish the knowledge gained on their curative power, thereby promoting the sales of these mineral waters and to build in the area the necessary reali- ties in order to render possible the treatment and stay for spa guests.” Count Wickenburg himself bought the first share of the association on July 1, 1834. This date marks the birth of Bad Gleichenberg as a spa town. In the following year the intense construction work started so that the first season was opened in 1837 with 118 guests from the upscale aristocratic society. The count’s connections laid the foundation for visits from almost the entire European aristocracy. In 1890 already 6000 visitors and entourage came and stayed for the greater part of the season, which at the time lasted from May to September. During this first period of prosperity the reputation of the “Curort Bad Gleichenberg” extended beyond the borders of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. To the present day Gleichenberg – the addition “Bad” was conferred in 1926 – belongs to the most important spa towns of the country. 11 12 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine TALES from bygone times Of “Turkish” lords and Serbian kings Count Ladislaus Koscielsky, also referred to as Sefer Pasha, was probably one of the most colourful figures of the Bad Gleichenberg scene. Having attained high honours in Turkey, the Sultan awarded him the title of pasha, which he kept even after his return to Austria. He, too, took a liking to the area around the “similar hills”, as the name reveals, and the vibrant spa town. Thus he bought the manor Bertholdstein near Fehring and had the route to Gleichenberg extended as to get there faster. Even today this road bears the name of its constructor, the “Paschastraße” (pasha road). The extravagant celebrations in his pompous castle attracted visitors from all over the world. Along with Sefer Pasha many illustrious guests came to Bad Gleichenberg. Apart from the European aristocracy all Austrian archdukes, Russian grand dukes, high-ranking diplomats and military officers, the upper class as well as renowned artists came to the spa in Bad Gleichenberg. King Milan of Serbia’s visits were legendary, especially his night-time jaunts. One of his favourite trips was to the “Bauernhansl” tavern for a hearty snack. But he also loved hunting and therefore had myriad pheasants released in the surroundings of Gleichenberg. Count Ladislaus Koscielsky alias “Sefer Pasha” In the old lists of Bad Gleichenberg one can find famous names such as Emerich Prince of Thurn and Taxis, who built his villa here, the writer Peter Rosegger, who held readings in the club’s theatre, and even heir to the throne Franz Ferdinand and Emperor Franz Josef I. Flirting BONDS for life Flirting has a long tradition in Bad Gleichenberg. As early as the 19th century great relationships were made here. To this day, this region is a popular place to “tie the knot”. Soon after the foundation of the spa town Bad Gleichenberg became one of the most popular destinations in the Habsburg monarchy. Guests from all the corners of the extensive empire came for a treatment in South-Eastern Styria. Numerous, even high-profile visitors crowded the streets of the rapidly growing town during the spa season. The guest lists from that time are testament to the high number of noble, also internationally highly esteemed guests. The lists were displayed and publicly available. Those who wanted to marry well studied the spa lists and booked their stay at a health spa precisely in Bad Gleichenberg. Coincidental encounters at the morning drinking of the waters and further conversations at spa concerts turned into a veritable marriage market. Many a lieutenant of good family but with slender means found his rich countess here in the beautiful, venerable Bad Gleichenberg. Public guest lists may no longer exist, but even today many bonds for life are made in this popular wedding region. Be it in the gorgeous Malaind hall in Bad Gleichenberg or in the Trauteum at the church square, the region offers plenty of places to make the promise of eternal love – to the partner or maybe even to the Region Bad Gleichenberg, “the love of my life”, as the slogan says. 13 Towards well-being The curative water stands at the beginning of Bad Gleichenberg’s history as a spa town. Even today it has not lost its importance and provides the fundamental basis for various treatments. 16 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine The Kurhaus Bad Gleichenberg provides modern recreational and health facilities: The spa area of the thermal resort Bad Gleichenberg offers six different sauna sections. Highly recommended: the herbs and brine sauna and conducted infusions are with 60°C at a pleasant and well tolerated temperature. Cryotherapy is exceptional among the health-related services offered in Bad Gleichenberg. Guests spend up to 3 minutes in the chamber wearing swimwear (!) at -120°C. This treatment sustainably boosts the immune system. Patients with skin diseases, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, but also respiratory ailments can be alleviated by this icy cold. Athletes also readily use this installation for regenerative purposes after hard physical exercise and long training sessions. In the treatment centre with the three focal points of the respiratory, skin and musculoskeletal system, a competent team of doctors and therapists takes care of the patients. During the summer special treatments for children with skin and respiratory diseases are offered. The wide range of treatments and medical care is stateof-theart, banking not only on the curing, but also the prevention of diseases. RELAXATION for body and soul In Bad Gleichenberg everyone unfailingly aspired to harmonise body and soul, it remains the ultimate ambition to fulfil the requirements for integrated well-being. This approach is also visible in the new Kurhaus Bad Gleichenberg with the “spa of repose”. The resort, which was opened in 2008, impresses with modern architecture and aligns perfectly with the landscape of the spa gardens thanks to its curved shape. The materials used are mainly stone, natural wood and glass. This allows the powers of nature, the landscape and, above all, the water to appeal to the visitors in an ideal and harmonising way. Thanks to its high mineral content the curative water of the spa provides the perfect basis for various therapies. In elaborate in-house production the Bad Gleichenberg brine is manufac- tured, which is used in different concentrations for skin and respiratory diseases. Those who want to experience the water directly can do so in the 2500 m2 big health spa, where the outdoor pool merges with the spa gardens. “Bathing in the park” allows you to leave all your cares behind. The soul can heal with the body. 17 The power of tranquillity Simply relax. Inner peace of mind flows through your body and gives you strength. There is time and space for thoughts. Take a time out in the Region Bad Gleichenberg. Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine 19 20 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Combine a special experience of peace and quiet with unique bathing fun in the “spa of repose”. Relax by the historic spa gardens with the adjoining villas. From the terrace of Schloss Kapfenstein you can enjoy the unique view over the whole region. Seclude yourself from the stunning vastness of a fascinating scenery. TIMELESS balm for the soul The monument of the God of Silence in the historic spa gardens invites you to enjoy the tranquillity. The gentleness of Bad Gleichenberg enchants the visitor from the first moment on. Mighty trees and flourishing vegetation make the venerable spa gardens an oasis of tranquillity and harmony. They were laid out by countess Emma von Wickenburg in 1837 in the style of English landscapes and should provide the guests with a place to move about and enjoy the harmoniously staged natural environment. An impressive variety of plant life and well-maintained paths invite you to take a stroll even today. The chapel in the middle of the park with its bark façade conforms to the surroundings. It is a gem amidst the green splendour of the gardens, and between 1838 and 1845 it served as an emergency chapel before the construction of the parish church of Bad Gleichenberg was completed. The spa gardens form the centre of a re- gion that spreads out around the historically grown town of Bad Gleichenberg. The gentle hills, the forests, meadows and gardens are waiting to be discovered and invite you to linger and enjoy the atmosphere. Hectic daily routine will soon be forgotten after taking the first steps in this splendid and colourful landscape. Numerous paths lead to special place cs of peace and tranquillity, places that can give new strength such as the hills of Gleichenberg or the castle hill of Kapfentstein. The “spa of repose” is also such a place. You lose track of time while “bathing in the park”. Your body floats in the comfortably warm thermal water while your eyes wander about the canopy of leaves of the adjoining park. You can sense how the pace slows down and you have more time for yourself and others. 21 22 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Land of the rolling hills Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine This region with its gentle hills and extinct volcanoes is a true landscape jewel. The mild, Mediterranean climate caters for a touch of southern atmosphere. The tourism region of Bad Gleichenberg is made up of six communities: Bad Gleichenberg, Bairisch Kölldorf, Gossendorf, Kapfenstein, Merkendorf and Trautmannsdorf. 23 24 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine From the outdoor pool Bad Gleichenberg to the museums of the region to Styrassic Park – the Region Bad Gleichenberg offers plenty of possibilities for all age groups to spend some relaxing days. The five communities of the tourism region encircle the spa town of Bad Gleichenberg similar to beads on a chain. ADVENTURES all around the region Feldbach Gossendorf Gleichenberger Kogeln Trautmannsdorf Kapfenstein Bad Gleichenberg Bairisch Kölldorf Merkendorf The Gleichenberg bag is the trademark of the tourism region Bad Gleichenberg. As a gift box filled with specialties of the region it is the ideal souvenir. But also as a school bag, wine box or suitcase for money – you will look good no matter how you use it! The journey there by “jungle express”, the regional train from Feldbach, is already an experience on its own. At an average of 30km/h you can discover a landscape that could not be more idyllic. The slow pace conveys a certain holiday feeling. Once you’ve arrived in Bad Gleichenberg you are introduced to countless possibilities to spend a relaxing but also interesting and diversified vacation. In the valley of dinosaurs you will encounter life-sized monsters of primordial times. Staged volcanic eruptions will fascinate kids and grownups alike. In the museums of the region you can learn more about the history of South-Eastern Styria: from the volcano museum in Kapfenstein to the Curmuseum in Bad Gleichenberg to the openair museum in Trautmannsdorf. Many other specialties are wai- ting to be discovered, as for example the world’s largest fire engine and an oversized mail box in Bairisch Kölldorf. If, after such intense tours, you want to jump into the refreshing cool waters, you can do so in the 50 m long outdoor pool of Bad Gleichenberg. A visit to the appealing golf course can also be very relaxing and a good way to let the day come to an end. The Region Bad Gleichenberg has a lot to offer – reasons enough to come and visit more often. 25 26 Zeitlos in der Region Bad Gleichenberg Hiker ’s paradise! Zeitlos in der Region Bad Gleichenberg The diverse hiking trails of the Region Bad Gleichenberg lead over gentle hills to marvellous viewpoints, through magnificent mixed forests and lush orchards and vineyards. 27 28 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Hikers can expect marvellous views, well-maintained hiking paths with various thermal resorts and diversified routes through forests, meadows, orchards and vineyards in the region of Bad Gleichenberg. On the “heart trail” you follow a round of twelve stops full of emotions and fascinating views and insights. Zest for life in the region of Bad Gleichenberg in a harmonious mix of prolific cultural landscape and living tradition. REGION BAD GLEICHENBERG Hicker´s Paradies In Trautmannsdorf the heart trail and the art and strength path join together to form an inspiring stop where you can recuperate before continuing your hike. In 1885 Professor Oertl already pointed out the relevance of “terrain cures”. These treatments consist of moderate exercise over a longer period of time and regular walks in the fresh air, which is believed to improve cardiac function. A terrain cure strengthens the body, relieves stress and increases vitality. What better place to make such wonderful health experiences than in the hiker’s paradise of Bad Gleichenberg? Numerous hiking paths follow the tracks of volcanoes through the entire region. The spa trails are especially fascinating: enjoy emotional moments and maybe (re-) discover the “love of your life” by hiking together along the heart trail. Enter your names in the guestbook at the summit of the Gleichenberger Kogel or witness one of the most exciting chapters of Earth’s history by following the Geotrail around the volcanic hill in Kapfenstein. The art and strength trails between Bad Gleichenberg and Trautmannsdorf are genuine sources of natural energy, as are the forest adventure path with a Celtic tree circle on the Gleichenberger Kogel and the ant trail around Merkendorf. The Gleichenberger railway, fondly called “jungle express”, leads through a landscape that is a feast of colours with connections to various hiking trails. In addition, eleven running and Nordic walking trails provide oxygen for the soul. 29 30 Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine Culinary pleasures of the region Noble wines, hearty meals and excellent Styrian cuisine – a region full of culinary pleasures and surprising treats. For some time now the region has been more than just an insider’s tip. Its high density of toques, multiple award-winning taverns and superb wine restaurants distinguishes Bad Gleichenberg. 32 Zeitlos in der Region Bad Gleichenberg Zeitlos in der Region Bad Gleichenberg EXCELLENT taverns and wine restaurants The gentle Sauvignon, the hearty Traminer or the full-flavoured Zweigelt caress the palate. Juices such as apple, elder and peach score with fruity sweetness. And when the Isabella grape joins the game a non-alcoholic drop will receive a touch of wild berries. Once you plunge into the culinary diversity of the Region Bad Gleichenberg it is inevitable to start swooning over its specialties. Sometimes it even gets a bit corny, or rather greasy: When drippings meet aromatic farmhouse bread, crispy fried chicken finds the direct route from the pan to a crunchy leaf salad or smoked bacon combined with freshly grated horseradish is presented as a tasty “Brettljause”. All these delicious highlights, including pumpkin seed oil or fine ham, stand for the culinary pleasure as it is held high in this region. There are more than 60 culinary addresses: gourmet restaurants regale exquisite dishes, rustic taverns or wine restaurants serve regional cuisine, cafés cater for the sweet treats and bars provide relaxing drinks. All of this is invariably garnished with a big portion of hospitality. Indulgence as far as the eye can see is also guaranteed at the “picnic in the vineyard”, which harmoniously combines the delights of cuisine and nature. Or, as gourmet chef Martin Winkler-Hernaden puts it: “You can taste home and enjoy the country”. 33 34 Region Bad Magazin derGleichenberg Region The Magazine Bad Gleichenberg Region Bad Gleichenberg The Magazine I LIKE TOP-QUALITY educational institutions this region: Apart from being a tourist destination Bad Gleichenberg is also home to internationally renowned educational institutions in the area of tourism and leisure industry. CZ SK D HU CH FH JOANNEUM Bad Gleichenberg In Europe’s smallest town hosting a training centre such as the FH JOANNEUM students enjoy high-level education in an ideal environment. At the location of Bad Gleichenberg degree courses in the fields of health care and tourism are offered. About 400 students enlist in programmes such as “Health Management in Tourism”, “Dietetics” and “Occupational Therapy”. With the creation of the new MBA programme “International Hospitality and Spa Management” an innovative and unique offer for professional junior managers was established. The FH Campus in green surroundings provides the ideal environment for practical and career-focused training. Successful graduates work in leading health care-oriented and tourist establishments all over the world. FH JOANNEUM Bad Gleichenberg A-8344 Bad Gleichenberg Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Straße 24 Fon.: +43 (0)316 5453 - 6700 Fax: +43 (0)316 5453 - 6701 [email protected] Tourismusschulen Bad Gleichenberg The Bad Gleichenberg Tourism School enjoys an outstanding international reputation. Graduates work at top representatives of noble hotel and food service industry. In the degree programme there are different branches of study: With a 3-year hotel management school, a 5-year secondary college of tourism, a 4-semester college of tourism and leisure industry and a 3-year advanced training programme for tourism the offer is extensive. The curriculum includes, depending on the training, hotel and food service management, REGION BAD GLEICHENBERG management of health care and wellness tourism, tourism and leisure management and foreign languages. In this way students are best prepared for their future international careers. SLO I Tourismusschulen Bad Gleichenberg Kaiser-Franz-Josef-Straße 18 8344 Bad Gleichenberg Fon.: +43 3159 2209, Fax-DW: 22 [email protected] Coming from Graz: Coming from Vienna: : Shuttle service: By train: Innsbruck – Graz – Feldbach* or Salzburg – Graz – Feldbach* Pick up from home: Vienna – Bad Gleichenberg – Vienna and from all train stations in Vienna with the travel agencies Alois Genser and Ewald Genser. Private transfer also possible. Thermenland-shuttle from airport and main station Graz for € 28 per person/trip. Registrate 4 days prior to arrival at your host or in the tourism office Bad Gleichenberg. By car: Via A9 in the direction of Graz, further on A2 in direction of Vienna, exit at Gleisdorf-Süd for Feldbach and Bad Gleichenberg or by car train Feldkirch – Graz and Innsbruck – GrazInnsbruck-Graz. *Change in Feldbach or pick up by arrangement. Landesberufsschule für Tourismus The ‘Landesberufsschule für Tourismus’ in Bad Gleichenberg has been training hospitality apprentices for more than 50 years. Many of the former students now represent Styrian hospitali- ty all over the world. Trainings to become a restaurant specialist, hospitality specialist, chef, expert in system catering and hotel business assistant are offered here. The Mailand hall, one of the most beautiful event locations of the country, also belongs to the group of buildings that make up the LBS. Landesberufsschule für Tourismus Mailandbergstraße 16 8344 Bad Gleichenberg Fon: +43 (3159) 2211-0, Fax DW 40 [email protected] By train: Vienna Aspang – Feldbach* or Vienna – Graz – Feldbach* By car: Via A2 – exit Ilz via Riegersburg and Feldbach to Bad Gleichenberg or exit Gleisdorf-Süd to Feldbach and Bad Gleichenberg Tourism association Region Bad Gleichenberg Obere Brunnenstraße 1 A-8344 Bad Gleichenberg FON +43/3159/2203 FAX +43/3159/2203-3 www.bad-gleichenberg.at [email protected] Opening hours: Monday to Friday 08:00 – 17:00h Saturday 09:00 – 12:00h 35 The love of my life Tourism association Region Bad Gleichenberg Obere Brunnenstraße 1 A-8344 Bad Gleichenberg FON +43/3159/2203 FAX +43/3159/2203-3 www.bad-gleichenberg.at [email protected]