Danijela Tomšić is a mother of a first-year student, an economist, a basketball and travel enthusiast, and also our dear colleague with whom we have been working together for many years.
Traveling is Danijela's great passion, regardless of whether it's just a casual weekend in a nice place. a place a few hours away from Zagreb or a few weeks long cruise to the other side of the world. On her profile, she is always happy to share her experiences and advice, and always emphasizes that traveling with children is a special pleasure and that children should not be left at home with grandparents.
Last year, Danijela and her family discovered and visited Katschberg Advent, a holiday event organized high in the mountains and amidst untouched nature, so we asked her for her impressions and recommendations.
What can visitors expect while walking the trail?
The Advent Trail on the Katschberg offers you a unique, warm and somewhat rustic experience of Advent as it once was - far from the hustle and bustle of the city, without too many decorations and kitsch, in the snow-covered mountains, with the sounds of a horn in the distance. If you are looking for a slightly different Advent experience, then this Advent is ideal for you. The mountains, clean air, the smell of snow and silence are what you will find in the Katschberg.
How demanding is the trail?
The trail is not demanding, although some fitness is required. If you are going with children, bring a sled (in case they get tired, and it is also interesting for them).
How is the track lit and decorated? Can you describe the atmosphere?
After the beautiful but crowded city Advents, this Advent trail in the Austrian mountains is a real refreshment. The trail is minimally lit with lanterns, so my recommendation is to rent a lantern (you leave a deposit of €20, which is returned to you later) and enjoy a romantic evening walk.
Are there any organized events or activities on the trail, such as concerts or workshops?
There are several huts/houses on the Advent trail. There is a music hut (where you can sing Christmas carols), an animal hut (where you can feed them), a workshop hut (where you can repair teddy bears), etc. The choice of activities is diverse and there is truly something for everyone. I was particularly impressed by the hut with a book of memories and decorations on which you can write your Christmas wish! You will also meet alphorn players on the trail, as well as a traditional brass band.
Do you have any special food and drink recommendations? What delicacies did you enjoy?
We bought a ticket with a thermos bottle (which you keep) and you can refill your hot tea along the way (at marked places). There are several houses on the trail where you can drink a hot drink of your choice and eat local specialties.
How long does it take to walk the trail and do you need to book tickets in advance?
The entire Advent trail is 7 km long (2.6 km one way) and starts from the Bacher chalet. You can take a shuttle bus (2.5€ per person), a carriage ride or simply walk to it.
Tickets (adults €25, children under 12 free) do not need to be booked in advance, but if you decide to take a carriage ride, it is essential to book in advance (even weeks in advance). The carriage costs €27 for adults and €14 for children. Bring cash as they do not accept cards.
Do you need any special winter clothes or shoes?
I would definitely recommend warm and layered clothing. As for footwear, make sure to wear snow boots. In addition to the aforementioned sleds for children, you might also consider headlamps for better visibility, although the trail is lit with lanterns.
And finally, we assume that you have carefully chosen not only warm clothes and shoes, but also skin care products, especially when it comes to winter conditions - cold and wind. What products do you recommend and what are your tips for keeping your skin barrier healthy in the cold?
That's right, I always have Olival hand cream with me for occasions like this. My favorites are the hand and nail cream with calendula and, more recently, the SOS Intense Recovery concentrated hand cream .
As for my face, I always apply SPF, and it is recommended to wear the same SPF in the mountains as on the beach, precisely because the snow reflects UV radiation. I love the Professional Face Fluid SPF 30 , especially in combination with the Vitamin C+ Serum . For soft and smooth body skin, I love the Magic Body Milk .
Photos: Danijela Vukman Tomšić
