Christian recommends

One of my favourite red wines is the Cabernet Franc from the Salzl winery. Finding a pure Cabernet Franc in Austria is not easy, and I love red wines with some depth, that develop in the mouth and don’t give everything away at once. When it comes to white wine, I’m simple – I want to drink wines that aren’t too heavy or full-bodied. Austria is, of course, a wine country with excellent whites, so I’m placing myself in the Grüner Veltliner category. Fresh and lively, easy to drink, yet still interesting. Light, pleasant Grüner Veltliners are often associated with positive moments: summer evenings, gardens, picnics, traditional “Heuriger”, good food with friends. These wines convey lightness, sociability, and serenity, and that affects your taste experience.

Food has always been a passion for my entire family. For me, food is one of the strongest sensory experiences we have, and we should cherish that. From fine dining to a rustic afternoon snack with friends – good food connects, tells stories, and creates memories. Simplicity often comes first for me here, and I am constantly fascinated by how outstanding dishes can be created from local, fresh ingredients, preferably without too much fuss. Some of my absolute favourite dishes include Wiener Schnitzel with potato salad, fresh, sliced veal liver in sage with creamy mashed potatoes – and of course, everything that involves pasta. Whether it’s classic spaghetti, homemade tagliatelle, or creative pasta dishes in every variation:  I am definitely a pasta addict. 

Depending on the time, I love to venture into the stunning mountain world right on our doorstep during the summer. Impressive mountains, fresh Alpine air, and the best clear drinking water are just some of the things that make my home so wonderful. Two hikes, in particular, have captured my heart: the first leads from St. Anton up to Mt Kapall, and from there continues to the Leutkircher hut. It’s a path that ranges from easy to challenging, and with its varied landscape, wide views, and the cosy stop at the top, it never fails to impress. Don’t miss the chance to take a break on the descent via the Putzen Alpine pasture, where cheese lovers can purchase locally produced cheese.
The second favourite route is the Alpenrosen trail at Mt Rendl, which truly lives up to its name. During the blooming season, the Alpine roses make the slopes glow a vibrant pink, adding a touch of Alpine romance to the path. These hikes are more than just physical exercise in nature: they’re moments of peace, awe, and mindful enjoyment amid our mountain world. Just switch off!

St. Anton and winter – where should I begin? 
Mt Arlberg is known as a mecca for winter sports enthusiasts for good reason, as Alpine lifestyle meets pure nature, tradition, and sporting passion here. Year after year, winter in our region presents itself at its best. When the first snowflakes fall and the mountains put on their white coat, the place turns into a true winter fairy tale. 
What makes St. Anton so special? It’s the perfect blend of first-class slopes, warm hospitality, and Alpine charm. But St. Anton is much more than just a ski resort. It’s a place for those who want to experience winter with all their senses. For those who prefer something quieter, a snowshoe hike through the snow-covered forests and meadows around Nasserein or St. Christoph is a must. Cross-country skiers will also get their fill – the expansive network of trails around St. Anton offers perfect conditions for both casual skiers and athletes. 
My tip: it doesn’t always have to be busy après-ski, though that certainly has its place. How about a winter hike to Lake Verwall, especially early in the morning or at sunset? When the light dances over the snow and the silence is only broken by the crunch of your footsteps, you truly feel what makes winter here so special. And after an active day? It’s time to stop and enjoy, whether in a rustic hut with Tyrolean specialties or a cosy inn in the village. Here, hospitality is lived, and you can feel that winter in St. Anton is more than just a season – for me, simply put, it’s a lifestyle.

Let’s be honest: in times of increasing hustle and bustle, a quiet evening on the sofa alone or with someone else is one of the best things ever. A cup of tea or a glass of red wine (maybe my favourite Cabernet Franc from the Salzl winery), with a good piece of cheese from our local dairy (the “Sennerei”), or simply sitting outside, looking around: so beautiful after busy days. When time permits, I also love going out for dinner with Jochen and friends. For me, a good meal is a moment to switch off and enjoy, whether at a cosy inn or with a lovingly prepared dish at home. Such evenings bring pure relaxation and little moments of happiness to everyday life.

I love St. Anton am Arlberg in both summer and winter – the cosiness of summer and the fascinating other side of winter. This place has a special vibe, a kind of magic, if you know what I mean. Fresh air, crystal-clear drinking water in every stream, warm summer days, the fresh breeze in the evening, opening the windows – breathing deeply and sleeping soundly – all without air conditioning. For me, an important factor for the future! In the cold season, St. Anton then transforms into a snowy paradise, and I experience winter the way it should be. I’m proud to call St. Anton my home.