A local’s guide to…Silvretta Montafon
Ski patroller Alexander Montibeller dives into the powder playground he calls home. Jealous? Us? Well, maybe just a tad..
Meet the Local
Name: Alexander Montibeller
Profession: Ski Patroller
Years lived in Silvretta Montafon: 30
WHY I CHOOSE TO LIVE HERE…
I was born and raised in Gaschurn in the Montafon valley and have a strong passion for the mountains. At a young age, I started skiing and climbing in my backyard, leading to (ski) mountaineering adventures in the Montafon region and the 4,000m peaks of the western Alps. Silvretta Montafon is my top choice for easy-access big mountain lines in high-alpine terrain, skiing powder, and touring.
BEST RUN FOR A WARM-UP…
Depending on your plans for the day, the warm-up runs can differ, but the slopes and lines around Spatla lift always work well. Just take the Versettla gondola starting in Gaschurn, and you’re right there. Even on busy days, I take it easy at first, using the time to check the conditions and gain confidence in the terrain.
FOR EASY-ACCESS OFF-PISTE…
The areas around Rinderhütten Bahn and Nova Bahn never disappoint. Choose Rinderhütten Bahn for action in the morning sun and the longest freeride runs in the area. On the opposite side of the valley, Nova Bahn offers easy-access powder action with wide-open powder runs just next to the lift.
TO FIND FRESHIES DAYS AFTER A STORM…
There’s powder everywhere – just get up early. Depending on conditions, ski routes 21, 22, and 23 at Nova offer great fun even on stormy days. At Grasjoch on Hochjoch, you’ll find the widest range of freeride possibilities, from big mountain lines on Zamangspitze to playful spines at Fredakopf.
FOR A BACKCOUNTRY ADVENTURE…
If you’re into freetouring, the Burg lift takes you to the entry point of the Madrisella area, where you’ll find steep couloirs and off-the-beaten-path freeride runs. After exiting the Burg lift, turn left and skin up to the summits of Versettla and Madrisella for numerous sweet spots. My favorite is the wide-open slope just past Madrisella’s summit, leading down to Nova Tal and back to the lifts.
THE BEST THING ABOUT LIVING IN SILVRETTA MONTAFON IS…
It’s home. I live where other people vacation. The beauty and adventure of nature year-round is unbeatable. My friends and I can never get bored here, and the locals have a strong connection to the surrounding mountains. Just come and check it out!
DON’T LEAVE SILVRETTA MONTAFON WITHOUT…
Checking out a sunrise ride up Versettla. There’s nothing like hitting the freshly groomed slopes before the crowds arrive, then enjoying a local mountain breakfast at Nova Stoba.
FOR A MOUNTAIN MEAL…
Nova Stoba is my favorite restaurant at the top of the mountain. My go-to dishes for an energy boost on powder days are Nova Töpfli (grilled pork fillet) and Kaiserschmarrn (a sweet shredded pancake). Plus, the terrace offers unbeatable views of the Kleine Heimspitze.
FOR APRÈS-SKI VIBES…
Sterna Bar at Nova Stoba is a must for a hot Jägertee. There are plenty of live bands and DJ parties throughout the winter. Down in the valley, my top spots are Lammhütta on the valley run to Gaschurn, Urmonti in Schruns, and Alte Talstation in Gaschurn.
FOR FOOD DOWN IN TOWN…
St Josefsheim in Schruns serves the best local food—don’t miss the Käsespätzle made with special local cheese. Pizzeria Da Pietro offers Italian dishes, and Alte Talstation serves freshly made American-style food.
FOR LATE DRINKS AND MUSIC…
Heuboda in Gaschurn is the place for late-night après-ski fun. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, Löwengrube in Schruns is a great choice.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE ITEM OF HELLY HANSEN KIT?
As a ski patroller, I need to rely on my clothes and equipment. My Helly Hansen shell jacket is my go-to on rough days up high.
READ MORE >>> A local’s guide to St Anton