An Unforgettable Blend of Golf, Hospitality, and Alpine Tradition
From September 8th to 10th, 2024, the stunning Golf Club of Alta Badia in Corvara/Colfosco hosted the sixth edition of the highly anticipated Alpen Skal Golf Challenge. This annual event brought together members of the Skal Alpine Clubs from Tyrol, Garmisch, Zell am See, Engadine, St. Gallen, and South Tyrol, celebrating a shared passion for golf, camaraderie, and excellence in the tourism industry, all set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Dolomite mountains.
Exceptional Hospitality:
Participants were warmly welcomed at the residence of President Francesco Morini and the renowned Hotel Sassongher, the only five-star accommodation in Corvara. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Sassongher mountain, the hotel offered a luxurious and intimate experience, with spacious rooms equipped with every comfort. Its warm and welcoming atmosphere made all guests feel right at home.
One of the highlights was the hotel’s wellness area, a haven of relaxation for those seeking to unwind after a day on the golf course. With a panoramic sauna offering stunning views of the Dolomites and an outdoor whirlpool, participants had the chance to soak in the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The frequent sighting of deer grazing nearby added to the tranquillity and connection with nature.
Immersed in Tradition and History:
The Hotel Sassongher is known for its impressive collection of hunting trophies, gathered over the years by the owner’s uncle Richard from his travels around the globe, from Siberia to Africa. These elegantly displayed in the hotel’s corridors, common areas, and relaxation zones, these trophies added a distinctive touch of history and authenticity to the venue’s ambience.
Another unique feature was the soundproof cinema room, available to guests, equipped with a giant screen and an extensive library of films and programs. This private cinema offered participants an additional opportunity to relax and enjoy some downtime in a luxurious setting.
The Alpen Skal Golf Challenge Program:
The event kicked off with the arrival of participants in the afternoon, followed by the registration of golfers and a welcome aperitif. This initial gathering provided the perfect chance to socialize and build friendships among members of the Skal Alpine Clubs. The evening continued with a delightful dinner featuring local cuisine, where attendees shared laughs and stories at the hotel’s bar with Saro, the award-winning bartender known for his charm and hospitality.
The following day was dedicated to golf. After a hearty and varied breakfast, golfers were transported to the course, where they took on a challenging 9-hole course, and played twice for a full 18 holes. During the midday break, a refreshing lunch allowed them to recharge before completing the second round. Meanwhile, non-golfing participants enjoyed an expertly guided excursion led by Francesco Morini himself.
The Edelweiss Valley Excursion:
This year’s excursion took the group to the enchanting Edelweiss Valley, famous for its beautiful alpine flowers. Here, participants had the opportunity to admire the untouched natural beauty of the region and immerse themselves in the Ladin culture. The group paused at the namesake mountain hut, where they enjoyed traditional local dishes, offering a true taste of regional cuisine in a welcoming and authentic setting.
Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner:
After some well-deserved relaxation back at the hotel, the evening began with an aperitif and the eagerly awaited awards ceremony. The Ladies Award was presented to Teresa from Skal South Tyrol for her remarkable skill and dedication. The Best Award went to Dennis Wrba, President of Skal Garmisch, a loyal participant and consistent supporter of the event. Finally, the First Prize was awarded to Hanspeter Herren from Skal Engadine, recognizing his outstanding performance on the course.
These prizes, generously sponsored by the Lunelli brothers of the Ferrari Winery in Trento, featured custom-labelled bottles of sparkling wine with the Skal logo, date, and the Hotel Sassongher’s name, adding a special and personalized touch to the occasion.
The grand finale was a sumptuous dinner prepared by the hotel’s skilled culinary team, featuring an exquisite selection of refined dishes paired with carefully chosen wines. Francesco Morini personally ensured that each dish was perfectly complemented by the finest selections, providing a fitting and memorable conclusion to an extraordinary day.
Conclusion:
The following morning, after a final leisurely breakfast, participants exchanged farewells, vowing to reunite at the next edition of the Alpen Skal Golf Challenge. This event once again proved to be an unmissable opportunity to celebrate the love of golf, the splendour of the mountains, and the importance of fostering relationships and collaboration in the tourism industry.
The Alpen Skal Golf Challenge 2024 successfully combined sport, tradition, and hospitality to create an unforgettable experience, leaving a lasting impression on everyone involved and strengthening the bonds of friendship that lie at the heart of the Skal Clubs across the world.
