Our elf was out and about again in Anthering and introduces you to the “Golden Autumn” in our village. Her walk begins in the “Acharting” district, picturesquely situated at the foot of the Haunsberg, where the new observatory is a new eye-catcher. Fancy more?
People often talk about the “golden fall” – you’ve probably said the same thing. But this year in 2018, it’s the pure truth. Every leaf seems gilded. Every tree gilded. Foehn storms blow nature across the countryside during the day and in the evening they conjure up the most beautiful cloudy moods in the sky. It’s exactly the same here at home – in beautiful Anthering.
Every walk is a gift. Today I’m going to head off to a mystical part of Anthering. “Acharting” lies at the foot of the Haunsberg and can also be reached via its own entrance from the main road. Entrance to the village: Have you noticed our steles there? Wood from the Antheringer Au, stone from the Haunsberg and glass as a symbol for the water of the Salzach welcome our visitors.
This morning, however, my route takes me directly from the town center via the sports facilities towards Gollacken. There, in the chapel, I have time for a few thoughts, a moment of introspection. The view from there stretches across our parish church to the Untersberg. The Salzburger Land is right in front of me – as if I only had to reach out for it.
The path through the Schönbergsiedlung is framed by groups of trees – which really do look mystical in the fall. Especially in the morning with a little early morning mist, or in the early evening, when the red-yellow leaves are backlit by pink light. The trees are large and mighty, in this mood they appear strong but also gently swaying in the wind.
The Fuchsmühle – a traditional business
I reach the Fuchsmühle via a small forest road. A traditional business with a history. I am always delighted when I meet Kathi or Manfred Luginger here. The owners of this venerable old mill. In 1938 it was considered the most modern mill in Salzburg. Time seems to have stood still. Today, the mill is the oldest actively operated and used mill in the whole of Austria. Kathi stands in the doorway and enjoys the morning air. The first customers have already arrived. Fuchsmühle flour is known and loved throughout the country. The nice thing about shopping here: Kathi always has time, no rush, no stress. And so she also has time for me. Today I want to find out from her how she is preparing for the coming weeks. There’s so much baking going on during the Advent season, customers will be buying flour and baking ingredients here particularly often now. She can only confirm that from November onwards, it’s peak season here for 6 weeks. Customers can also enjoy freshly baked Kletzenbrot, gingerbread houses and gingerbread Santa Claus and Krampus. Her eyes light up, she loves what she does.
The Hammerschmiede – a hotel in the forest
Directly behind the mill, the road continues to the Hammerschmiede. A regional, seasonal and organic hotel in the middle of the forest. The hotel has received many awards, from Bio-Austria to the Umweltblatt 2018. It is the first Kneipp hotel in Austria – with a small, fine Kneipp facility for everyone. In November, there are also offers for short breaks with YOGA and KNEIPPEN. A great combination in my opinion! I am greeted by a peacock – who seems very trusting, but has my utmost respect. I walk past the historic old hammer mill and across the meadow behind the hotel into the forest. Immersing myself in the silence – this is also known as WALDBADEN. I treat myself to some soothing breathing exercises at the waterfall of the now calm Acharting stream. This waterfall can freeze over in winter – and is then a particularly beautiful sight.
I reach the districts of Schönberg and Ried via a forest path, which is a little steep but still safe. (Alternatively, a road leads from Fuchsmühle to Schönberg) In the middle of the forest…. it’s too tempting, and I think: a woman is never too old to run wild through a pile of leaves. Nobody saw it J.
I have two options in Schönberg/Ried. The direct route into the village via Riederstraße, or I choose the swing path, which is not only popular with children. I opt for the “detour” even though I know that the swings are already in hibernation. I’ll be happy to take you there in the spring. The circle closes, I’m back in the village center and enjoy a coffee at the Schmidhuber bakery on the village square.
