Ryan and Renata Return!

I’m very happy to say that my friends, Ryan and Renata, have returned to Innsbruck from Victoria for another visit. (Actually, I should say Winnipeg, as they came direct from there where they are working on a contract.)

I picked them up in Munich last week and we decided to spend a couple of hours looking at the town. Although we were there only for a short while, we managed to have some glühwein, walk though the old town (which was very busy despite all the stores being closed on a Sunday) and have dinner at the famous Hofbräuhaus beer hall (the epicenter of Oktoberfest and home of the giant beer stein). A nice diversion.

Ryan and Renata in Münchin
Ryan and Renata in Münchin
Prost!
Keeping warm
Prost!
Prost!

As we were reviewing what we wanted to do, it became apparent that I would have my work as guide cut out for me, as we fit in an awful lot last year: Christmas markets; cross-country skiing; downhill skiing; tobogganing; Salzburg; Sud Tirol, Italy; Trento, Italy; hiking; and lots of walking around and shopping. As it is also fun when I get to experience something different, Markus suggested Kitzbühl, which I have yet to visit and only know from the photos of stars skiing there in gossip magazines.

We didn’t see any celebriaty, but enjoyed the town nonetheless. I was expecting an over-the-top place, like Aspen, where every other store sells designer labels, $10,000 watches or trendy art. But, as Markus explained, there are just too many ski resorts in this area to not offer at least a range of prices and options. (Although we did spy a gated community which obviously housed those who could afford the very best.) Overall, a very lovely town.

Old church and graveyard near the city center
Old church and graveyard near the city center
Ryan and Renata in the ancient part of town
Ryan and Renata in the old part of town
The town is highlighted by the Ache river and of course the surrounding mountains.
Kitzbühl is highlighted by the Ache river and of course the surrounding mountains.
Where the wealthy hang out.
Where the wealthy hang out.

For lunch Markus suggested we check out a new hotel, called the Grande Tirolia, which cost €70,000,000 to build. The decor was very trendy, taking inspiration from both its Austrian location and Russian owners, including an entire wall of schnapps bottles, one for each member of the golf club. The Michelin-rated restaurant wasn’t opened for lunch, so we ate in the golf Bistro. Although the design was interesting and relaxing, the food was unfortunately quite bland. But an interesting experience anyway. And the drive around Kitzbühl to reach the hotel was pretty.

Grand Tirolia hotel entry
Grand Tirolia hotel entry
Reception lounge area
Reception lounge area
Ryan and Renata in front of the open kitchen.
Ryan and Renata in front of the open kitchen.
View from the hotel driveway
View from the hotel driveway

I really look forward to going back someday to ski!

2 Replies to “Ryan and Renata Return!”

  1. Hillary,

    Just did a nice read through your recent posts, and between the bead up the nose incident and the “up yours” drunken toast…you had me laughing out loud! And kitzbhuel…(<>) Let’s swap lives for a day this year okay?!?! 😉 All the best in 2010.

  2. Hi Hils,
    Once Ryan & Renata have departed and if you’re interested in a good, long chat, let’s connect on the phone. It will be good to talk to you, again.

    Love from, Lori

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