What does a ski school get up to in the summer?
Without our partners, we wouldn’t be able to offer our guests an exciting programme of summer or winter weekly activities. But who are the people behind it all? We’ll be answering this question for you time and again over the coming weeks. First up is the SKISCHULE TOTAL in Tulfes.
Felix Plaikner introduces himself
My name is Felix Plaikner. I’m from Innsbruck, but I’m anything but a city kid. From an early age, skiing and golf drew me to the countryside and the mountains. That’s how I ended up in Rinn. In the summer, whilst at school, I worked at the golf course; in the winter, I worked at the Total ski school in Kinderland Rinn.
In 2017, I took over the ski hire business from Urs and, as his deputy, have been working full-time ever since, running the ski school, ski hire, ski servicing and boot fitting during the winter. Through ski servicing and boot fitting, I have discovered my passion for the technical and equipment-related aspects of skiing. Not only do I enjoy the ‘tinkering’, but I also take pleasure in helping people who are struggling with their boots and in helping them discover the joy of skiing through personalised boot fitting and ski servicing.
Ski school in winter – e-bike hire and guides in summer
However, to ensure that we can work professionally as a team all year round, we had to find a way to retain the team throughout the year. With the e-bike hire and bike service, I can pursue my passion on the one hand, whilst on the other hand the team’s professionalism is maintained, as everyone knows exactly what their tasks are and already has relevant experience. Unfortunately, it is also very difficult to find people who are enthusiastic about ski servicing, boot fitting and bike servicing, and who already have relevant experience. That is why our staff always come first for us, and we strive to maintain a pleasant and friendly working atmosphere.
How the e-bike hire scheme came about
Time and again, I observed older people at lower-lying mountain pastures and was fascinated that, despite their age, they were able to enjoy the natural surroundings higher up. At the same time, it struck me when I thought about how many other older or unfit people, for whatever reason, are unable to experience the beauty of sunrises and sunsets or the unspoilt natural wonders.
When I then happened to try out an e-bike and was immediately thrilled by the prospect of getting anywhere without having to exert myself too much, the idea of opening an e-bike hire business sprang to mind straight away. Anyone who knows me knows that I’m also very keen on technology and love ‘tinkering’. That’s why bike servicing is one of my passions too, and it’s the perfect combination with the e-bike hire business. The Total Ski School has been around for 30 years now, so something new is always a welcome addition :) ...
Felix’s cycling tips
There are a few things to bear in mind when cycling on an e-bike. Braking more frequently with the front brake – due to the greater weight of e-bikes – is new territory for many people. Also, setting off on steep gradients or at pasture gates isn’t always easy the first time round. On our homepage, you’ll find plenty of tips and tricks for e-biking!
You should always carry the following in your rucksack:
- something to drink
- a spare inner tube
- tools
- an air cartridge or mini-pump
- a mobile phone for emergency calls
- duct tape
- cable ties
- a first-aid kit
With these items, you’ll always be able to make it back down to the valley, and you’ll be properly equipped in an emergency.
His insider tips, his places of power
My top tip is always the Voldertal. Surrounded by beautiful forests, apart from the murmur of the stream, you can hear nothing but your own breathing and the tyres on the gravel track. The further up you go, the fewer people you’ll find there. If you combine e-biking with a hike, you can enjoy the most beautiful spots and views away from the hustle and bustle and simply switch off. You’ll be delighted by the many natural gems and peaks.
My places of power in the region are unspoilt spots in the countryside around the Glungezer. When I’m out looking for mushrooms, I find my own way to relax too – even though I’m usually the rather tense type :) … I love riding my e-bike as far as possible and then going for a leisurely hike away from the crowds, amidst the region’s beautiful mountain scenery. In spring, there’s nothing better than a ‘bike-hike-ski’ adventure.
Cycling through the Tyrolean mountains on an e-bike
As bike guides, Matze and I offer guided e-bike tours. For companies planning an outing with their staff, we’re happy to take care of the tour planning, deliver the e-bikes to the desired location and support you with tips and advice during your tour. Of course, we’re also happy to organise tours for private guests and show them the most beautiful spots in the Hall-Wattens tourist region.